Sunset Bay Outrigger Canoe Club has returned from a strong showing at the Australian National Long Distance Titles, held in Mooloolaba from May 23–25, 2025. With just nine senior paddlers attending, the team still managed to bring home a haul of medals and proud performances.

Friday brought cool conditions, but it didn’t take long for Bryan Wilkinson and Steph Lomas to find their rhythm, earning a silver medal in the 16km Senior Master OC2. New club member Peter Drew made a bold debut in a field of 102 competitors, paddling in the 10km Novice OC1 and securing a bronze medal for his efforts.

Bryan also backed up his OC2 result with a solo 10km effort in the Senior Master Men OC1, finishing 4th out of 10 contenders. Meanwhile, Oscar Grey took on the 16km V1 challenge and proudly brought home a bronze medal.

Saturday's focus shifted to the club’s OC6 crews, with excitement building as the team rigged the canoe for both the 18km long and 10km short course events.

First on the water were the Senior Master Women, who competed in the 18km race. While they didn’t medal, they delivered a spirited performance, catching bumps and overtaking canoes throughout the course. “We had a lot of fun, tried hard, and will improve for the next regatta,” said club steerer Renee Martin.

Later that day, the Master Mixed crew took on the 10km short course and earned a silver medal, finishing in just under 51 minutes and placing 11th out of a competitive field of 51 canoes.

Keeping the momentum into Sunday, Sunset Bay's Master Mixed crew added another bronze medal in the 18km long course, capping off a successful weekend.

Next up, Sunset Bay Outriggers will travel to Townsville in June for sprint and 37km regattas across two action-packed days.

Anyone interested in trying outrigger canoeing is welcome to connect with the club via the Sunset Bay Outriggers Facebook page.

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Sunset Bay Outrigger Canoe Club delivered a strong performance at the Australian National Long Distance Titles in Mooloolaba, during May 23–25, securing multiple medals across solo and team events despite a small nine-paddler squad. Photos supplied

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Local Women Pack Power At Weekend Self-Defence Workshop

Over the course of a weekend, a diverse group of women and girls, spanning various ages and physical abilities, came together to learn practical self-defence techniques aimed at increasing personal safety both at home and in the community.

The sessions were led by Helle Smith, who also runs the Northern Beaches Karate Club (Shyto-Ryu), and supported by Sergeant Steve Smith from the Crime Prevention Unit, along with Volunteer in Policing, Gerri Kissner. Together, they provided important information about community safety, legal considerations around self-protection, including the concept of reasonable force, and shared useful tips to help participants stay safe.

Held in a safe and supportive environment, the sessions gave participants the opportunity to openly discuss personal safety concerns and learn effective defensive techniques. Highlights included participants testing their strength and resolve by punching bags and breaking wooden boards – an empowering experience that left many feeling more confident and aware of their surroundings.

A special guest on the day was MP for Mackay and former Sergeant Nigel Dalton, who attended to offer his support and relay apologies from Amanda Camm, MP for Whitsunday and Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence.

The next self-defence session is scheduled for Saturday, 13th September, from 9am to 3pm. For more information, contact Helle on 0488 146 644.

Contributed by Gerri Kissner

Women and girls of all ages came together for a weekend of self-defence training, gaining practical safety skills, legal insights, and a boost in confidence through an empowering and supportive workshop led by local experts. Photos supplied

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The ladies at the club have been busy contesting the Championship Triples, which commenced on Tuesday, 21st May, with the final played on Thursday, 29th May.

As expected, the competition was fierce, with many closely fought ends and the head often tightly packed with both teams’ bowls. After a strong display of skill and teamwork, the eventual winners were Marie Bragg (Lead), Val DePinto (Second), and Nuggie Pratt (Skip).

The runners-up were Daphne Offield (Lead), Jean Schmidtke (Second), and Lidia McCarthy (Skip).

Well done to all competitors who took part in this exciting event.

A special thank you to the ever-supportive umpire, June Cousen, for her continued dedication to all the club’s competitions.

Looking ahead, the Championship Singles will begin on Wednesday, 4th June, with matches scheduled alongside the B Singles through until 18th June.

Also worth noting is the launch of the Ladies Warehouse Bowls Fun Night, held each Tuesday evening from 6:30pm to approximately 8:30pm. All are welcome to come along, watch, or join in by putting their name down at the club. A $15 entry covers green fees and a delightful supper. New bowlers are especially welcome – equipment is provided.

Finally, Pennant season for all district clubs kicks off on 23rd June and will run until 31st July. Best of bowls to all clubs participating!

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Championship Triples Runners Up (L) Daphne Offield, Jean Schmidtke, Lidia McCarthy. Photos supplied

Winner of the Championship Triples Competition are (L) Marie Bragg, Nuggie Pratt and Val De Pinto

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Young rookie ballers are progressing nicely, showing improved skills each week. They’re playing harder, stronger, and with growing confidence – all while keeping the fun alive. A special highlight came when Asher Rootes was ecstatic after hitting a live pitched ball from Zac Hargraves for the first time. Ollie Baxter also impressed, showing great form behind the plate with confident catching.

The Joey Ball troupers are also having a great time, with plenty of enthusiasm on the field. A big thank you goes out to all the grandparents, parents, and coaches who help out each week, making it such an enjoyable experience for the littlest players.

In Under-14 action, Dragons Get The Power defeated Angels North Jacklin choas 7–5. Get The Power took the lead from the outset, scoring five runs in the first dig. Noah Baxter and Connor Doolan were dominant, each scoring three runs. Baxter smashed the ball to centrefield for a home run in the second dig, while sisters Lily and Chloe Mackenzie picked up two walks each to get on base. Riley Taylor had a ripper hit to left field. Zoe Fry, Darcy Dolgner and Macee Dolgner each drew walks, bringing each other home to score runs for choas.

Young Guns overcame the Dragon Slayers 15–4. Although not the best day with the bat for the Slayers, they did hold the lead for the first two digs. Tyler Nolan, Latoya Latimer and Audra Pollard all took smart catches in the field. For the Young Guns, Cooper Maluga led the charge with three hits to the outfield and pitched a solid game. Eli Neilson impressed with a superb batting display, bashing a three-bagger and bringing more runners across the plate.

Connor Doolan added a highlight-reel moment with a sharp line drive catch at shortstop.
Hawks PM Diesel defeated Xtreeme Angels 11–5 in a contest that remained close until the fourth dig, when PM Diesel surged ahead. Miley Barrow and Tiffany Martin came home three times each, while Amy Goodwill, subbing in, had two key hits and added to the scoring for the Hawks. Pitcher Erin Rutherford grabbed two catches and combined with Charlotte Whittaker for a slick double play.

For the Xtreeme Angels, Bailey Sleeman, Nerida Bates and Kacee Schultz all fired big hits to the outfield, with Schultz carting the ball for a home run. In the field, Yodene Schoeman took a sharp catch and made a quick release to Latoya Latimer, resulting in a brilliant double play.

Results:

Dunbar Angels  v Dragons Tyre Power 10 -3
Get the power - nth jacklin choas  7 -5
Angels Golden oldies -   Pink Hawks  17 - 4
Young Guns -  slayers    15 - 4
Ausgroup  -  Devils  14 -12
Heavy Iron Hawks  - Custom Angels  11 - 6
PM Diesel Hawks  - Xtreeme Angels  11 - 5
Dragons men  -  Hells Angels  11 - 3

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

Rookie ballers are growing in confidence and skill, U14s delivered thrilling matchups - including a standout win for Young Guns - while thanks flowed to families and volunteers supporting the youngest players each week. Photos supplied

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Red point week

The weekend saw the Whitsunday Zone Teams played in Mackay. Ten teams of four players competed for Red Points in the competition. Team Brown won after winning all nine rounds, a fantastic result! After three rounds of play with three different partners in the Remembrance Pairs Debra Goodchild came out as a winner, with Sandy Patterson winning the under 100 mps section. Fourteen other players in the competition also received a portion of red points.

Weekly Results

Monday 26 May 2025 –- 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait 1st Diane Morgan / Marilin Robins
2nd Nancy Martin / Terry Sheedy 2nd Sandy Paterson / Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
Tuesday Evening 27 May 2025 – 4 Table One Table Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek 2nd Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan
3rd Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 4th Mick King / John McGee

Wednesday 28 May 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Karen Caldwell / Geoff Taylor 2nd Frances Brown / Alan Brown
3rd Josie Crowley /Barbara Tait 3rd Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
Thursday Evening 29 May 2025 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Jan Harris / Frances Brown 2nd Adrian Westcott / Faye Wright
3rd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 4th Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

Friday 30 May 2025 – Remembrance Day Pairs Week 3 of 3 - 11 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Eric Goodchild / David Ting 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 2nd Frances Brown / Patricia Garner
3rd Roland Taylor / Lynne O’Neill 3rd Mary Cruickshank / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 4th Ming Ting / Eric Goodchild
4th Alan Brown / Diane Morgan 5th Noel Bugeia / Anne Lutz

Remembrance Pairs Final results after 3 weeks of play – Individual Winner Red Points
1st Debra Goodchild 1st Novice – Sandy Patterson

Saturday 31 May & Sunday 1 June 2025 – Whitsunday Zone Teams – Red Points
Team Members
1st Brown Alan Brown / Frances Brown / Marilin Robins / Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen
2nd Sheedy Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor / Noel Bugeia
3rd Shuttlewood Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson / Faye Wright
4th Goodchild Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild / Ming Ting / David Ting

Contributed by Joy Block

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Marilyn, Alan, Frances, Diane (Janet absent). Photos supplied

Debra Goodchild

Sandy Patterson

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Monday’s self-selected triples saw Jim Steele, Chris Healey and Jenny Healey emerge victorious over Keith Janette and Norm Dawson in a strong performance. In other matches, Ron Hyde, Maureen Hyde and Alby Vigar defeated Sugar Brunker, Kevin Daniels and Kennedy Whitton. Trish, Bob and Leon also claimed a win over Robyn, Isobel and Merle. The jackpot remained elusive.

On Tuesday, winners were decided on Rink 4, with Lindy Suann, Margaret Wilson and Penny Warren defeating Merle Elphinstone, Gavin Charles and Maureen Hyde. Other results saw G. Tartaglia and B. Dykstra defeat I. Laird and R. Hyde, while Sue Shearing, John Hayson and Denis Madely triumphed over Bron Tolcher, Louise S. Collins and Rodney. Once again, the jackpot didn’t go off.

The Ladies’ Club Pairs Final was held on Sunday morning, showcasing a high standard of play and enthusiasm. Denise Wallace and Penny Warren took home the title, defeating Jocelyn Defranciscis and Tiarna Rogers.

Sunday afternoon featured three triples games and two pairs matches. The standout team of the day was Graham Smith, Mark McHorgan and Joe Paynting, who secured a win over Shirley Smith, Sue Simons and Denis Madely.

Meanwhile, the Men’s team represented the club proudly at the District Purple Pennant, taking on strong competition from Hughenden, Charters Towers, Thuringowa, Ayr, Giru, Bowen and Alligator Creek. Congratulations go to Bowen, who won the event, with Ayr finishing runners-up. The Ladies Purple Pennant will be held in Bowen in a fortnight.

Contributed with thanks to Penny Warren

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Ladies Club Pairs Champions Denise Wallace and Penny Warren. Photo supplied

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As we wrap up our 2025 end-of-season presentation series, we highlight the swimmers whose dedication, consistency, and sportsmanship stood out over the entire year – along with the parents and volunteers whose efforts help keep the Cannonvale Cannons running strong.

One of the most respected honours each year are the Trainers Awards, selected by our coaching team to recognise consistent effort and a positive attitude at training throughout the full 12 months of the season.

Trainers Awards

Junior Trainer:

Evie Doherty
Harris Delac
Senior Trainer:

Zach Trefz
Ruby Harland
Andie Reynolds
We also celebrated swimmers who achieved incredible speed milestones in our own pool. The following swimmers earned their place in two of our club’s most exclusive honours:

Mudie Family 70s Club
(Awarded to swimmers who complete 100m of any stroke, including IM, in under 70 seconds – one time per stroke)

Roxy Groom – 100m Freestyle
Isabella Pisaniello – 100m Freestyle (absent)
Tyler Bennett – 100m Freestyle
Jax Clayworth – 100m Freestyle
Zach Trefz – 100m Backstroke

Minute Club
(Awarded to swimmers who complete 100m of any stroke, including IM, in under 60 seconds – one time per stroke)

Jacob Bell – 100m Butterfly
Another highlight of the evening was the presentation of our major annual awards:

Swim of the Year
Awarded to Tora Delac for her performance at Nationals this year.

Sportsperson of the Year
Awarded to Jacob Bell, recognising not just his achievements in the pool, but his leadership, sportsmanship, and positive presence within the club.

We also took time to thank the many hands that make the club function week in and week out. A heartfelt thank you goes to our dedicated volunteers who help behind the scenes and on pool deck.

Special thanks to our Race Secretary Theresa Manning, who keeps our meets running like clockwork. She also brings a touch of fun to our presentation nights with her parent timekeeper awards – and this year’s Timekeeper of the Year was proudly awarded to Ginger White.

To our Officials – Andrew, Danny, Kristen, Theresa, and Jade – thank you for your time, training, and ongoing commitment to fair competition.

As we celebrate the season just gone, we also look ahead. Our club relies on the involvement of our parent community, and we warmly invite all families to attend our upcoming Annual General Meeting on Tuesday 10th June.

Contributed with thanks to Jade Korosec

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We’re stoked to report that it’s been a great week in fishing, and that the weather conditions for the week ahead are looking stellar.

Dam
With the mornings and evenings being colder, barra fishing at the dam has continued to get slower. We have had reports of some being caught in the middle of the day when it’s warmest, with barra sunning themselves in the weed beds. Sight casting and top water lures are most effective here.

Estuary
Good numbers of mud crabs have been reported across the Lethebrook region. Most reports we’ve received have been caught up the back of narrow creeks as opposed to the wider river mouth.

Grunter continue to be about in good numbers. The key to catching them is using fresh bait, with poddy mullet and herring being the best options. When casting, get up into sandy and rocky areas.

Mangrove jack are also still around. If you’re chasing bigger ones, use fresh or live bait.

Islands & Offshore
With the recent nice weather, lots of boats have finally been getting out to the reef. Micro jigging in 20-30m of water has been producing lots of coral trout and slow-pitch jigging in 50-60m of water has produced several great red emperor. Once again though, the challenge for many has been getting their catch past the sharks.

Lots of large Chinaman fish halve also been landed, but please remember that these are a protected species and need to be sent back down.

Best of luck out there!

Contributed with thanks to Beth Hockley and Jason Fisher from Tackle World Airlie Beach

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Whitsunday local, Ryan Hutchinson, with a GT caught at Knuckle Reef. Photo supplied

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As the final week of autumn wrapped up, club members had plenty to celebrate both on and off the green. The biggest news? The long-awaited cover installation is expected to take place after next weekend’s 16 Teams competition, organised by Margo Stanley.

Tuesday saw a thrilling 22-all draw between Skippers Joan McGrath (with Greg Fennell at lead) and Tony Whitehorn (with Mel Fennell at lead). The overall winners were Regina Aquilina’s team, who clinched a 23–21 win with Mark Mawson and promising new bowler Gina Passfield.

On Wednesday, 20 bowlers took to the green. A warm welcome was extended to visiting players Malcolm Townson from Glasshouse Mountains Bowling Club (Sunshine Coast) and Roslyn and Ian MacRae from Woodend Bowls Club in Victoria’s Macedon Ranges. The big winners of the day were skipper Betty Whitehorn and Roslyn MacRae, who defeated Regina Aquilina and Ian MacRae. Well done, ladies!

There was no Business House Bowls on Wednesday night due to the State of Origin.

Friday morning saw further impressive development from the Endeavour Foundation participants. Michael, Jett, Kathy and Keana continue to improve with every game and could well be gold medal contenders for the 2026 Disability Games.

The Christian College group is also making significant progress, with Riley Jacobson, Shannon Matthews, Nadia Piggott and Ella Jones showing excellent potential. Several others are close behind and, with focus and application, could become fine bowlers.

Saturday morning saw Division One take on North Mackay, with all three teams playing impressive bowls. Newcomers Tony Whitehorn and John Matterson slotted seamlessly into the squad. At home, Manny Isgro’s team defeated a strong South Suburban side, while Bob McMahon and Harrison Quad’s teams were gallant in narrow defeats.

Division Three travelled to Sarina on Saturday and played well despite the loss, bouncing back on Sunday with a win over North Mackay. Division Five struggled against Proserpine but found form on Sunday, delivering a strong victory over RSL Memorial. Congratulations to skippers Mervyn Stewart and John Askew and their teams for their determination and teamwork.

Division Six secured a strong win against Mackay Bowls Club on Saturday. On Sunday, they faced a tough test at RSL Memorial on a challenging green. Steve Lawrie’s team (Tony Kelly, Greg Fennell and Mark Mawson) fought hard but were edged out 17–16 on the final bowl. Dennis Donnadelli’s team of Des Ballance, John Brown and Bob Fenney also put in a solid performance.

With a two-week break for the Australian Open, attention now turns to the final rounds of the season. Current standings:

Division 1: 4th position
Division 3: Last, but within striking distance of two other teams
Division 5: Second-last, with confidence for a strong finish
Division 6: 4th, but just a few points from first—still in the hunt for the title

A huge few weeks ahead as the season reaches its exciting conclusion!

Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson

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Division 6 skippers Dennis Donnadelli and Steve Lawrie at RSL Memorial Grounds

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This week’s social bowls were played under perfect weather, with the cooler, drier conditions showcasing the excellent state of our grass greens thanks to consistent care.

On Wednesday, Henny Tattam and Barry Zillmann defeated Alen Sanderson and Philip Brown 26–14, while John Anderson, Bruce Uhe and Mike Harrison edged out Trevor Parsons, Arthur Griffith and Heather Brown in a close 21–20 game.

Sunday afternoon’s social bowls began later than usual due to Pennants, and we appreciated the patience of our regulars. It was great to welcome back Garry Alexander and introduce two visiting Germans to the game. In the afternoon matches, Alen Sanderson and John Anderson defeated Wayne Melrose and Arthur Griffith 16–12. Marieke, Henny Tattam and Heather/Philip Brown defeated Bastion, Mary Hedgelong and Garry Alexander 20–12.

The Social Participation Tally continues to tighten: Arthur Griffith leads with 49 points, Bruce Uhe and Philip Brown follow on 47, Heather Brown and Alen Sanderson sit on 40, and Sandy Daffara has 35.

In Pennants, Division 1 played two away games. On Saturday, they defeated Sarina 66–53, earning 5 points. On Sunday, they lost to North Mackay 53–68 but claimed 1 point.

Division 5 had an excellent weekend. On Saturday, they won 46–37 at Airlie Beach for 4 points. Sunday saw them dominate North Mackay 50–24, securing all 5 points.

Current standings see Division 1 in third place with 20 points, and Division 5 also in third on 16 points (on margin).

Thanks to Ken Watts for providing smoko on Sunday, and to Philip Brown for umpiring and helping run the bar.

Pennants will now pause for two weeks to allow district players to compete at the Australian Open. Best of luck to all representing Proserpine!

Contributed with thanks to Proserpine Bowls Club

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Football - Whitsunday United FC
Friday 6 June
6:00pm -  Div 2 Men vs Country United FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
8:00pm -  Div 1 Men vs Country United FC at Whitsunday Sports Park

Saturday 7 June
9:30am - U13 FQPL vs Mackay Wanderers U13 FQPL Rubies at Mackay Football Park
9:30am - U14 vs Mackay Rangers FC U14 Gold at Whitsunday Sports Park
11:00am - U13 Div 1 vs Magpies FC at Mackay Football Park
11:15am - U15/16 vs Dolphins FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
5:00pm - U23 Men vs Magpies FC at Whitsunday Sports Park
7:00pm - Men vs Magpies FC at Whitsunday Sports Park

AFL - Whitsunday Sea Eagles
Saturday 7 June (Mental Health Round)
9:15am – U13s vs Swans at Whitsunday Sports Park
10:40am – U15s vs Swans at Whitsunday Sports Park
12:15pm – U17s vs Bakers Creek at Whitsunday Sports Park
1:50pm – Senior Women vs Bakers Creek at Whitsunday Sports Park
3:20pm – Senior Men vs Bakers Creek at Whitsunday Sports Park

Rugby Union - Proserpine/Whitsunday Rugby Union Club
Saturday 7 June
1:00pm - Reserve Grade vs Mackay Brothers at Leprechaun Park
3:30pm - Premier Grade vs Mackay Brothers at Leprechaun Park

Touch Rugby - Whitsunday Touch
Monday 9 June
Semi final fixtures at Whitsunday Sports Park

Cricket – Airlie Beach Cricket Club
Contact airliebeachcc@yahoo.com.au for information about Airlie Beach Cricket Club

Netball – Whitsunday Netball Association
Contact netballwhitsunday@gmail.com for netball information

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Whitsunday United junior and senior teams were in action over the weekend, delivering a mix of gritty performances, high-scoring wins, and signs of strong development across the board.

U13 Division 1
Facing the undefeated Country United, the Under 13 Division 1 side showed significant improvement from their last encounter. A tightly contested first half saw both teams locked in a defensive stalemate until the dying seconds, when Country broke through with a long-range strike to lead 1-0 at the break. Whitsunday held firm in the second half, but two late goals from the opposition saw the final score settle at 3-0. Despite the result, the young squad impressed with their resilience and teamwork, with Captain Brook leading by example in a best-on-ground performance. He was well supported by Riley and Parker in defence, anchoring a much-improved effort.

U13 Premier
The Premier U13s also travelled to Mackay, putting in one of their best displays of the season against second-placed Rangers. In a thrilling end-to-end contest, Whitsunday matched their highly rated opponents for intensity, skill and determination, ultimately falling 2-1 in a match that could have gone either way. Jackson Perez scored the goal for United, while Dally came close to levelling with a thunderous strike brilliantly saved by the Rangers’ keeper. Credit goes to Dally, Chad, and Bailey for their tireless efforts across the full match, helping keep the team grounded and competitive.

U14s Dominate
The Under 14s were clinical in their 19-0 demolition of Rangers Black, with Kobe opening the scoring in the third minute and netting five in total. Shannon led the tally with six goals, while Austin, Tyson F, Nick M, Liam, Bailey, and Eli G also added their names to the scoresheet. The team’s passing, movement and unselfish play kept Rangers on the back foot all game, with impressive assists coming from Tyson F and Nick M. Thanks to U13s Bailey and Alex for stepping up and contributing to the dominant performance.

U16s Fire in Crucial Win
In a must-win clash against rivals Magpies, the Under 16s made a statement with a commanding 10-0 win. A penalty conversion in the opening minute set the tone, followed by a second spot kick and a long-range strike that had the boys 3-0 up by halftime. The second half was all Whitsunday, with highlight goals from Jacob and Tyrell among the seven added after the break. Harry notched a hat-trick, Cody scored twice, and Samuel, Kai and Noah also found the back of the net.

Premier Women Hold On for Valuable Win
The Whitsunday Premier Women picked up a hard-fought 2–1 win on the road against Country. Goals from Sarah and Bre in the first half put the visitors in control, though a lapse in concentration allowed Country to pull one back before the break. The second half saw plenty of attacking intent from United, but missed chances and moments of miscommunication kept the scoreline tight. Still, three points in the bag and a solid base to build on ahead of next week’s key home fixture against Magpies.

Contributed with thanks to Allan Milostic

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Cannonvalley Pony Club hosted a fantastic weekend of equestrian competition on 31 May and 1 June, featuring a full day of dressage followed by a day of combined training – a discipline comprising a dressage test and a jumping round.

The event was fortunate to have beautiful weather, making for a safe and enjoyable competition. The hosting club was well represented, alongside riders travelling from across the Whitsundays, Mackay, and as far as Dysart, all vying for qualifiers or exposure ahead of the upcoming state event.

The weekend was a celebration of fine riding, great sportsmanship, and strong community spirit. Spectators enjoyed excellent viewing, and the standard of horsemanship on display was something the club is immensely proud of.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our generous sponsors – Horseland Mackay for providing prizes, and our sponsors Warren Transport, BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, and Bendigo Bank for their valued support.

To stay updated on upcoming events, including our next competition – showjumping and jump equitation on 26–27 July – follow Cannonvalley Pony Club on Facebook.

Contributed with thanks to Cannonvalley Pony Club

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Some of the prize getters from Saturday’s dressage.
Junior rider Madi McMahon in her first dressage test, led by mother Claudia Keddeman.

Photos supplied

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The 2025 Charity Horse Ride and Bush Muster, hosted by Breakaway Horse Riders Mackay, was a powerful show of community spirit, purple pride and heartfelt purpose — with thousands of dollars raised in support of vital health causes including cancer research, heart disease research, and the Mackay Base Hospital Oncology Unit.

More than 170 riders saddled up for the annual event, which this year shone a spotlight on pancreatic cancer awareness, honouring survivors like lunchtime speaker Greg Barr, who shared his personal journey with the disease.

The ride began at 107 Brand Road near Mirani and wound its way through picturesque country to Dows Creek Hall, where over 100 horses and their riders were cheered in by family, friends and locals. Among the many proud moments was seeing three generations of the Johnson family ride together, while original event supporters Ted and Bernice Bussey watched on from the sidelines with smiles and tears.

A morning tea stop at Mirani Community Hall, generously prepared by the CWA Gargett crew, gave riders and backup teams a warm break. After dismounting to cross the bridge, participants enjoyed a sausage sizzle at the lunch stop — made even more special thanks to a surprise BBQ courtesy of Marian Lawns Turf Farm, with Anthony and Corey and their family stepping up to feed the masses.

There was purple everywhere — from riders and horses to decorations — as people dressed up for the cause. Prizes were awarded for best dressed and top fundraisers, and plenty of lucky rider prizes were handed out at lunch.

Kaley-Jade Baker from Star101 clocked up 26km in the saddle, calling it a “record-breaking ride” as she celebrated her first charity ride with Breakaway alongside her horse Buddy:

“171 riders & over $24,000 raised in support of pancreatic cancer awareness for the Mackay Base Hospital’s oncology unit. Here’s to mine and Buddy’s first Breakaway Horse Riders Mackay charity ride!”

The Mackay Camera Group captured the action from start to finish, helping preserve the memories of an unforgettable day.

From community generosity to shared determination in the saddle, the 2025 Charity Ride was more than just a ride — it was a celebration of mateship, purpose, and purple passion.

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Three generations in the saddle! From left: Adam, 2-year-old Charlotte, Scott, 4-year-old Georgia and Robert Johnson riding proudly together for a great cause.

Snapped in stride! Action shots from the day were captured by the talented Mackay Camera Group, preserving every purple-powered moment. Photos supplied

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Steve Mathieson Adds Flavour To Players’ Lounge With Restyled Jim Beam Bottle

The players’ lounge at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre has become an even better spot to unwind after some spirited rallies on the court.

Thanks to morning fixtures organiser Steve Mathieson, the lounge now boasts a uniquely restyled bottle of Jim Beam—a creative touch that’s already turning heads.

Steve dedicated two hours to transforming the bottle into a decorative feature for the lounge, where players cool off with refreshments and swap stories – some of them mostly true – especially after evening matches.

There’s some speculation that part of Steve’s creative process may have involved helping to empty the bottle. Now sealed and proudly displayed, it’s sure to spark conversation for years to come.

Results

Branko Vucurovic attacks the ball as Tony Bowman goes back to defend in Tuesday morning Mackay table tennis fixtures on Tuesday. Tony won the battle -17, 7, 3, -9, 6.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures, May 20, 2025.

Division 1:

Panther Prowlers (Doug Dungavell, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) d Cosmic Sorcerers (Delma Knight, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) 9-3. John/Kevin d Pam/Coral 7, 8, -6, -5, 9.

Phoenix Fire (Donna Abbott, Steve Mathieson, Noreen Fredericksen) d Ant Warriors (Geoff Denman, Judy Zahn) 8-4. Steve d Judy -10, 4, -8, 3, 6.

Star Lords (George Camilleri, Branko Vucurovic, Bryan Marshall) d Star Lords (Tony Bowman, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-5. Tony d Branko -17, 7, 3, -9, 6.

Division 2:

Eclipse Spin (Helen Ware, Darryl Ross, Virginia Clayton) d Astro Aces (Iris Grasso, John Hamelink, Chris Collins) 9-3. Chris d Darryl -5, -11, 8, 8, 9.

Nova Smashers (Marie Taylor, Louise Gould, Frank Caruna) d Orion Orbiters (Ross DeBoer, Thelma Caruana, Robyn Bushell) 8-4.

Division 3:

Spider Smashers (Gerry Synnott, David Muir, Glenda Dutton) drew Captin Spins (Josie Davis, Sharon Muller, Myles Dutton) 6-all. Myles d Glenda -3, 8, -9, 8, 6.

Bat Serves (Madge Saunders, Ron Johl) drew Iron Rallies (Sally Muir, Allison Day, Laurie Bradshaw) 6-all. Ron d Sally -11, 3, 9, -11, 13.

Graham won the clash of the Grahams in Tuesday night Mackay Table Tennis fixtures, Graham Brake beating Graham Drury -9, -7, 8, 5, 8.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixture results May 20, 2025:

Division 1:

Tech Titans (Ivan Perkins, Neil Brown, Geoff Denman) d Nano Nets (Vimal Chilukuri, Vince Boeske, YiLin Jiang) 7-4. Vimal d Neil -10, 6, -6, 3, 9.

Pixel Paddles (Goncalo Serra, Robbie Richards, Trent Day) d Data Dashers (Niro Premachandra, Josh Brown, Barry Patterson) 7-4. Barry d Trent 6, 4, -9, -7, 9.

Pixel Players (Jacob Whelan, Donna Abbott, Graham Drury) d Byte Bouncers (Anne Sheridan, Graham Brake, Ian McKay) 6-5. Graham B d Graham D -9, -7, 8, 5, 8.

Code Crackers (Emma Widdup, Lee Brake) d App Attackers (Steven Whiting, Graeme Walker) 6-5. Steven d Lee -8, -6, 5, 6.

Division 2:

Circuit Cyclers (Janice Kent, Ross, David Symons) d Turbo Techs (Val Austin, Steve Mathieson, Logan Brown) 9-2. David d Logan 5, -8, 8, -9, 7.

Robo Rallies (Will VanDeKaa, Daniel, Tiffany Camilleri) d Cloud Chasers (Rod Hamelink, Syed Aminul Hossian, Samuel Whelan) 7-4. Syed d Will 7, -11, 12, 9.

Quantum Quicks (Mark Sleeman, Rymer Tabulo, Mark B) d Stream Strikers (Melanie Theodore, Delma Knight, George Camilleri) 6-5. Rymer d Delma -5, -10, 10, 6, 7.

Giga Gamers (Peter Goodson, Liz Burton) d Mega Movers (Craig VanDeKaa, Mark Stam) 3-2. Craig d Liz -4, 9, 10, -8, 6.

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Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Steve Mathieson has added character to the Mackay Table Tennis Centre’s players’ lounge with a cleverly restyled—and possibly self-emptied—Jim Beam bottle that’s now a talking point among players

Tony Branko. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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