Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The 71st running of the iconic Magnetic Island to Townsville swim proved to be another memorable event, marking the 17th year of the race as a cageless swim.
The 8-kilometre course begins at Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island and finishes on the Townsville shoreline directly in front of Strand Park. Swimmers are usually accompanied by a support kayaker, who provides guidance, encouragement and sustenance throughout the crossing.
This year's event attracted 73 solo swimmers, 10 duo teams and eight teams of four.
The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club was represented by Pierre Craven and Jenny Smith, who both rose to the challenge.
Pierre faced an unexpected hurdle before even entering the water when the kayak belonging to his support paddler, Geoff Hamilton, was delayed on a barge experiencing mechanical issues. Undeterred, Pierre received advice from Jane Eggins to push ahead without stopping for sustenance.
The strategy paid off, with Pierre improving on last year's time by 30 minutes and finishing seventh in his age group. He credited much of that improvement to the guidance of coach Millie at the DMR Memorial Pool, home of the Sinkers Masters Swimming Club.
Meanwhile, Geoff returned to Townsville by ferry to retrieve the kayak and, with the assistance of Theresa Hackney, caught up with Pierre about 1.5 kilometres into the swim.
For Jenny Smith, the event marked her first crossing, although she says it certainly won't be her last. Following months of training, dedication and discipline, she finished eighth in her age group, supported by a Townsville-based kayaker.
Jenny Furini and Theresa Hackney formed the on-the-ground support crew, while many more supporters cheered from Mackay.
Beyond competition, the Sinkers Masters Swimming Club prides itself on being an inclusive community, welcoming swimmers of all abilities, from experienced competitors to those returning to the pool after time away or recovering from injury.
Contributed by Gerri Kissner
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
