Mackay Road Runners Celebrate 2025 Season At Annual Presentation Night

Mackay Road Runners held their 2025 Annual Presentation Night, a celebration of the club’s achievements that rivalled any award ceremony. Trophies and thank-you gifts were presented throughout the evening, recognising the dedication of members, volunteers, and sponsors.

Club President Paul Tilse acknowledged the committee and volunteers for their efforts in making the 2025 season a success. He also thanked the club’s many loyal sponsors and supporters, including Life Members Merv and Wendy Shields of M-Test Mackay, who have supported the club since its inception in 1976.

Carolyn Mapes and Alan Zamparutti coordinated the event at North Mackay Bowls Club, providing a fun introduction featuring several ‘Who Am I?’ quiz questions. Tables were decorated with running-themed items, and attendees enjoyed a popular selection of chocolates and Turkish Delights.

Major awards for 2025 were presented by Life Members Wendy and Merv Shields, Jim Ford, and Judy Zahn in the absence of Club Patron Col Meng:

• Junior Female & Male Club Champions: Lily Leven & Max Miles
• Open Female & Male Club Champions: Alana Knezevic & Mick Vivian
• Overall Handicap Points Champion: Ashley Miles
• The Grove 10k Handicap Champion: Justin Rule
• Forsyth’s Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield Champions: Alana Knezevic & Toby Rule
• Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Champion: Max Miles
• M-Test Open King & Queen of the Mountain: Alana Knezevic & Jared Havemann (non-member)
• Laura Pettifer & Podiatry Mackay Junior King & Queen of the Mountain: Lily Leven & Toby Rule
• Col & Rhonda Meng Club Person of the Year: Len Howarth
• Most Supportive: Andrew Short
• Most Improved: Gail Mackie
• Encouragement Award: Bianca Miles
• MAD Fitness Lucky Door Prize: Hughie Bishop

Committee members and volunteers were also recognised for their dedication, including Life Members Agnes Farmer, Wendy and Merv Shields, Tim Magoffin, Paul and Janelle Tilse, Andrew Short, and others who hosted events from their homes.

Looking ahead, the first event in the Shawn’s Splash & Dash Summer Series is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at the Aquatic and Recreational Complex (ARC). Club Captain and Life Member Jim Ford will guide participants through 30 minutes on the track followed by 30 minutes in the pool. Prizes will be awarded for the most laps completed in each age category. While the event is free to join, entry to the ARC facility covers access to the pool and track. All ages and abilities are welcome.

The Mackay Road Runners Annual General Meeting will be held Monday 12th January, 5:30 PM, North Qld Bulk Ports Meeting Rooms, Mackay Marina

Members and community supporters are encouraged to attend or share feedback with the committee if unable to make it.

For more updates and news from the Mackay Road Runners, watch this space.

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2025 Committee congratulated on a great year with beautiful roses by Wendy Shields (Life Member) left to right) standing:- Paul Tilse (President), Len Howarth (Vice-President), Jo Hughes (Merchandiser), Tim Magoffin (Treasurer), Brendan Bishop (2024 President), Andrew Short (Asset Co-ordination, course setup/packdown); kneeling in front:- Jim Ford (Club Captain), Julie Whibley (Secretary) and Janelle Tilse (Publicity Officer.) Photos supplied

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