Mackay Surf Life Saving Club’s (SLSC) ‘Guardians of the beach since 1950’ hosted the 32nd annual North Australian Titles from October 28 to 30, bringing huge success to the club and the lifesaving movement in general.
A contingent of over 530 competitors and over 150 officials and water safety personnel as well as a dedicated workforce descended on Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach over the weekend.
With light northerly winds and crystal-clear waters, the event was conducted in sensational conditions, something lifesavers really appreciate about the beautiful Mackay region.
“The club is very proud of our small but strong competition group, from the nippers in U11’s to our masters,” Mackay SLSC Director of Surf Sports Josh Grant said.
“To see our competitors take on the best of the best in the North and achieve some great results is a credit to the culture and commitment we have at our club.
“The feedback I have received from visiting clubs is that they love coming here and competing at one of the best beaches in Queensland.
“I would just like to thank all the clubs that made the effort and travelled to Mackay to the North Aussies, we hope to see you next year!”
Mackay SLSC welcomed clubs from as far north as Cairns and south as Noosa for the event and Club President Brendan Smith said the interest and participation has been very impressive.
“We are continuing to grow this event and I just want to thank all competitors, officials, patrolling members and volunteers for making this happen,” he said.
“We are now planning to make next year’s event bigger and better and would encourage the Mackay community to get involved in this iconic lifesaving event.”
Stand out achievements went to the club’s nippers including U11 Ash Johnson: 2nd Beach Flags and 3rd beach Sprint; U12 Jo Madden: 2nd Board race; and U14 Molly Madden: 2nd 2km Beach Run.
The Masters crew finished the carnival on 6th position with some great results from Steve Bird: 1st Surf Ski & Surf race; Chris Webb: 1st 1km Beach run and 2nd surf race; Ben Madden: 3rd Ironman; Matty Newland: 3rd Ski; and Luke Griffith: 3rd 2km beach run, surf race and board race.
The masters crew excelled in ski team events taking 1st in double ski and 3rd in the ski relay with the Box Bellies Surf Boat Crew 2nd in the open division.
“It’s a fantastic result to place with the best of the best of Northern Australia,” said Mr Grant.
Mackay SLSC has a busy summer ahead, with the Tri-Series between Mackay, Eimeo and Sarina taking place tomorrow, November 26 and the Branch Titles on December 10 to 11.
