Whitsunday Junior Athletes Celebrated for Sporting Excellence

Information about Council’s Junior Elite Athlete support program can be found on their website Photo credit: Facebook

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Young athletes from across the Whitsundays were recognised for their impressive achievements at a recent Ordinary Council meeting in Proserpine.

Mayor Ry Collins and Councillors acknowledged a group of junior competitors who have excelled at regional, state and national levels, supported through Council’s Junior Elite Athletes initiative.  

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The program provides financial assistance to help cover the costs of competing in representative sport, ensuring local talent can pursue opportunities without being held back by expense.

Among those recognised on the day were Kayne Higgins (cross country), Adelaide Sanders and Eli Gerrand (football and futsal), Axel Yuskan, Evelyn Doherty, Declan Dichiera, Eloise Chegwidden, Lucas Korosec, Jax Clayworth and Zane Clayworth (swimming), Reid and Rory Martin (sailing), and Ben Hope (cricket).

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Council also paid tribute to several athletes who were unable to attend but have achieved outstanding results. These included Kade Harrison and Skye Brodhurst (volleyball), Thomas O’Neill (motocross), Karlee and Byron Goodin (football), Isabella Pisaniello and Charlie Doherty (swimming), Amber Benson (rugby league), Millie Groom (cross country), Roxanne Groom and James Davies (swimming), Russell Harris (sailing), and Matilda Nichols (triathlon and aquathon).

Mayor Collins said the recognition highlights not only sporting success, but the commitment and resilience shown by these young athletes.

“These athletes are fantastic ambassadors for the Whitsundays,” he said. “Their hard work and determination is something the whole community can be proud of.”

The Junior Elite Athletes initiative continues to play an important role in supporting the region’s emerging talent, helping athletes take the next step in their sporting journeys.

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With a wide range of sports represented—from swimming pools and athletics tracks to sailing courses and football fields—the Whitsundays continues to produce a diverse and promising group of young competitors.

Council encourages families and aspiring athletes to learn more about the program and the support available, as the region continues to back its next generation of sporting stars.

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