The 2025 Mackay Wanderers Junior Football Carnival was a standout weekend for grassroots sport, featuring a record-breaking 130 teams from across Central Queensland. The carnival’s scale and success brought thousands of visitors to the region, creating an electric atmosphere on and off the field.
Mayor Greg Williamson congratulated the organisers, volunteers, and families who made the event possible.
He said, “It was the biggest event to date, bringing thousands of visitors to our region and creating an incredible atmosphere on and off the field.”
He also highlighted the economic benefits, adding, “Events like this not only showcase our local talent but also deliver a fantastic economic boost to the region.
"Well done to everyone involved – Mackay should be proud.”
Greg Kliese, president and lifelong member of Mackay Wanderers Football Club, described the carnival as one of the happiest and friendliest clubs he's been involved in.
With over 45 years of coaching experience, he emphasised the wider benefits for young players.
“They get to learn discipline, work for one another, and gain valuable skills - especially creativity.
"it's overall just a great atmosphere."
Carnival coordinator Melinda Studt praised the strong community spirit throughout the weekend.
“The kids were just so busy with their teams having fun… if the kids weren’t busy playing their game, they were either at the canteen or in the drill zone space learning tricks from senior players.”
“We had a great turn out with the girls this year too, so next year we absolutely want to boost that aspect and build a stronger competition for the girls.”
Both Melinda and Greg expressed gratitude to Football Queensland for their support, with Greg saying, “Football Queensland really got amongst it and helped with the draw and scoring.”
On behalf of the club, Melinda, Greg, and Football Queensland thanked players, coaches, referees, families, volunteers, and sponsors for their invaluable support, with the team now looking forward to an even bigger carnival in 2026.
2025 Carnival Winners:
• U15/16: Magpies Mackay Football Club Black
• U14: Striker Biloela
• U13: Emerald Eagles Football Club
• U12: Airlie Beach Black
• U11: Mackay Lions Black
• U10: Magpies Mackay Football Club Silver
Special recognition was also awarded to Country United Football Club Inc as the Fair Play Club of the Carnival.
The 2025 Mackay Wanderers Junior Football Carnival set a record with 130 teams, celebrating community spirit, youth development, and growing girls’ participation. Photo credit: Amanda Blines
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