April 23, 2026

Footy is back in full swing! (AFL)

Photo Credit: Cody Fowler – Whitsunday Sea Eagles

On Saturday the 18th of April, the Whitsunday Sea Eagles took on the North Mackay Saints at Zeolla Park.

The U13s put up a strong fight, applying great pressure with impressive ball movement and leading around the ground. They came out hard early and lifted again in the third quarter. Despite creating opportunities, they couldn’t quite convert, finishing 24-45.

The U15s had a great day out, not only beating the heat but also the reigning premiers on their home deck! Locking the ball in their forward fifty for the first half, the Sea Eagles managed a 50 to nil lead by halftime. In the second half the Sea Eagles came out better than ever with hard tackles, strong centre clearances, and great teamwork. Ending the game with 83-24 on the scoreboard the boys sent a strong message to the rest of the competition to start their season on a high.

The U17s showed great teamwork, sportsmanship, and heart in their first game for the year. Despite the 16–85 loss, the boys never gave up and kept their heads high until the final siren.

Photo Credit: Cody Fowler – Whitsunday Sea Eagles

The Senior Women showed grit and determination, playing with low numbers and no players on the bench in the sweltering heat. Although going down 0-124, their effort never dropped and they now look forward to next week’s challenge at home.

The Senior Men had a slow start against an experienced Saints outfit but lifted after halftime following an inspired address from playing coach Jake Turner. Kicking four early goals in the third they built momentum and matched the Saints for the half, but couldn’tclose the gap and finished 39-90.

Photo Credit: Cody Fowler – Whitsunday Sea Eagles

Get down to The Nest this Saturday the 25th of April for the first home games of the 2026 season. With ANZAC Day celebrations, memorial guernseys, and a nighttime fixture under the brand-new lights, it is not one to miss. Come down, get loud and support the Sea Eagles from 11:55am, with the final game kicking off at 6pm under lights.

Contributed with thanks to Georgia Whitton - Whitsunday Sea Eagles