Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Whitsunday Swimming Club’s rising para-swimming talent, George Rush, has delivered a breakthrough performance at the 2026 Australian MC Age Championships, recording multiple personal bests and climbing to second in Australia in his age group for the 400m freestyle. Competing at the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre against the country’s top junior multi-class athletes, the 13-year-old showcased significant improvement across several events, underlining his rapid development on the national stage. George’s standout swim came in the boys’ 400m freestyle, where he slashed 10.7 seconds off his previous best time. The result not only highlighted his endurance and race strategy but also propelled him to No. 2 in Australia for 13-year-old multi-class swimmers in the event. George continued his strong form in the 50m freestyle, trimming 0.39 seconds from his personal best. George achieved further with a 6.08 second PB in the 200m individual medley. Across the three-day championship, George competed in both heats and finals for 5 of his 6 nominated events - 50m Freestyle, 100m Freestyle, 400m Freestyle, 50m Backstroke and 200IM, gaining valuable experience against elite-level competition while pushing his own limits. George also qualified for the 200m Freestyle, George Placed 14th overall in the 200m Free and recorded another massive personal best time. The Australian MC Age Championships serve as a key pathway for emerging para-athletes, with many participants aiming to progress to represent Australia on the international stage. For George, the combination of personal bests and a top two national ranking signals a significant step forward in his swimming journey. With the Brisbane 2032 Paralympic Games drawing closer, performances like these are helping to shape the next generation of Australian talent—and George Rush is quickly establishing himself as one to watch. Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Swimming Club Captions Great job George!! Photo supplied
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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club and REEFIES held their “Sweeties & Squires” Fun Family Fishing Competition last weekend ensuring a fantastic time for all. The event kicked off on Thursday evening with an informative talk and demonstration by Tristan from MSQ, covering boating safety and the proper use and maintenance of essential safety equipment. Following a short briefing on the event’s relaxed rules, all participating kids received a free rod and reel, tackle box, cap, and a backpack full of goodies. Committee member Dave Cranmer then delivered an engaging and educational presentation on fish identification, sustainable fishing practices, environmental stewardship, fish handling, and teamwork. A quiz followed, with all the kids achieving excellent results and earning prizes. 10 enthusiastic teams competed over two fun-filled days. Most fish caught were carefully released after a quick photo, with only a few kept for dinner—highlighting the club’s strong commitment to responsible and sustainable fishing practices. The weekend wrapped up with a lively presentation on Sunday afternoon, featuring a huge array of prizes for the ladies and kids, along with a couple for the “big boys,” who took on crew-only roles this time. Delicious food was enjoyed by all, adding to the celebratory atmosphere. While the Doolan family claimed top honours in a closely contested competition, the true spirit of the weekend was about bringing families together, enjoying time on the water, and creating lasting memories. Events like this play an important role in the Whitsundays community, fostering a love for the outdoors, encouraging sustainable fishing practices, and strengthening connections between families, local organisations, and future generations of anglers. The involvement of generous sponsors and the dedication of the club committee helped make the event inclusive, educational, and rewarding for everyone involved. All the kids received great prizes, while the ladies were treated to bubbles and chocolates. There were plenty of giveaways and fun prizes for all, with support from generous sponsors and the ever-enthusiastic Reefies mascot, “SAILEE,” who promised the event will be even bigger and better next year. The next club event is the Queenfish and Trevally Rally, taking place on the 16th and 17th of May—don’t miss it!
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The Whitsunday Raiders Rugby Union Club is setting its sights on an exciting international opportunity, with plans underway for a junior development tour to Japan in April 2027. The proposed tour will see a group of young Raiders players and their families travel overseas to experience a new culture, build lifelong friendships, and represent the Whitsunday region on the international stage through rugby. Club President Tim Oberg said the tour is about much more than just sport. “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our young players and their families,” he said. “It’s about broadening horizons, building independence, and creating experiences that will stay with them long after their playing days are over.” Oberg also highlighted that rugby union’s global reach makes opportunities like this uniquely possible. “An overseas tour like this is a real point of difference for rugby union,” he said. “It’s a truly international game, and that opens the door for experiences and connections that you simply don’t get in many other sports.” Japan has a strong and growing rugby culture, particularly following the success of the Rugby World Cup in 2019. The tour is expected to include a series of matches against local Japanese teams, as well as cultural experiences designed to immerse players in Japanese life. “For many of these families, it will be their first time travelling overseas,” Oberg said. “To do that together, as part of a team representing their community, is incredibly powerful.” Importantly, the tour is designed to be inclusive and open to all players, regardless of ability. “This is about participation, connection and personal growth,” Oberg said. “Every child deserves the chance to be part of something like this.” While the opportunity is exciting, the cost of international travel presents a significant barrier for many families. The club is committed to making the tour as accessible as possible and is now calling on local businesses and community partners to help bring the vision to life. “We want every player who wants to go on this tour to have the opportunity to do so, regardless of their financial situation,” Oberg said. “That’s why we’re reaching out to the Whitsunday business community for support.” Sponsorship opportunities are now available, with local businesses invited to play a role in supporting the next generation of athletes and ambassadors for the region. Contributions will go directly towards travel costs, accommodation, and tour logistics, helping to ease the financial burden on families. “This is a chance for businesses to invest in our young people and be part of something really special,” Oberg said. “The Whitsundays has always been a community that gets behind its own, and we’re confident that spirit will shine through again.” The tour is still in the planning stages, with further details to be confirmed in the coming months. In the meantime, the Raiders will also be undertaking a range of fundraising initiatives to support the journey. Anyone interested in supporting the Whitsunday Raiders Japan Tour can contact the club directly to learn more about sponsorship opportunities. “This is about creating memories, building character, and representing the Whitsundays with pride,” Oberg said. “We can’t wait to bring this opportunity to life.” Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Junior Rugby Union
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Flying under the radar is a little-known fishery that operates within one of the world’s most iconic ecosystems: coral harvesting. Many Australians would be surprised to learn that the Great Barrier Reef supports the country’s largest coral fishery. Each year, up to 190 tonnes of coral are removed from the Reef, much of it destined for the domestic and international aquarium trade. Among these are some of the Reef’s most unique and visually striking species—highly prized, yet ecologically vital. The Great Barrier Reef is often celebrated for its beauty and biodiversity, but it is also an ecosystem under immense stress. Climate change has driven increasingly frequent and severe mass bleaching events, while cyclones and flooding have compounded the damage. Together, these disturbances have contributed to some of the most significant declines in coral cover ever recorded. Against this backdrop, the harvesting of live coral raises difficult questions. Many of the same species targeted by the Queensland Coral Fishery are those already vulnerable to bleaching and mortality. Removing healthy corals from the ecosystem can reduce the Reef’s natural capacity to recover from disturbances, potentially undermining broader conservation and restoration efforts. This creates an apparent contradiction. Governments have invested heavily in protecting and restoring the Reef, funding initiatives aimed at improving water quality, supporting coral regrowth, and enhancing resilience. Yet, at the same time, a regulated industry continues to extract coral from the wild. To be clear, the fishery does not operate without oversight. Strict quotas, spatial zoning, and licensing conditions are in place to manage harvesting. Exceeding quotas or collecting coral from protected “green zones” can result in significant penalties. Enforcement, however, remains an ongoing challenge. In 2016, the first prosecution for illegal coral harvesting since the 2003 rezoning plan occurred in Gladstone, where divers were caught collecting coral in a no-take zone. Since then, there have been more than 20 prosecutions linked to illegal coral collection within the marine park, many involving commercial operators. Such incidents raise concerns about the industry’s “social licence”—the level of public trust and acceptance it holds. Increasingly, reef tourism operators, scientists, and environmental groups are calling for tighter restrictions, with some advocating for a complete ban on wild coral harvesting. Despite this, the fishery continues. In 2024, it received federal approval to operate for another three years. Authorities have indicated that a revised ecological risk assessment and updated harvest strategy will be completed by 2026, potentially shaping the industry’s future. That future may lie beyond the Reef itself. Aquaculture—growing coral in controlled tank environments—has long been promoted as a sustainable alternative. It offers the potential to supply the aquarium trade without removing corals from the wild, easing pressure on an already stressed ecosystem. As the Great Barrier Reef faces an uncertain future, so does coral harvesting. For many, the answer is clear: the Reef’s corals are far more valuable alive, thriving in their natural habitat, than they are as commodities. Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Conservation Council
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HERO – Whales of the whitsundays team celebrating when the Whitsundays was formally recognised as a Whale Heritage Site. Photo supplied
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This week’s poem is from Christine Pennay who lives in Collinsville ; a big fan of the paper. She has been fiddling with words since her school years, so here is one of her works. Water from the sky The smell The taste The delight Of it on my face It's cool It's wet It's delicious Running down my neck So clear So sweet So clean Washing over my feet Let it rain Let it pour Let it thrill Poet Corner - April 17th
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I’ve been reading the book ‘The Language of the Night’ – a collection of essays by superstar writer Ursula K. Le Guin. Ursula K. Le Guin was perhaps one of the most influential, successful and prolific authors of the 20th century. She was not boxed in by any category finding acclaim in a wide range of genres and formats. She is known for her epic fantasy series ‘The Wizard of Earthsea’ and reflective science fiction pieces in her ‘Hainish Cycle’ series. She has won the Hugo Award, Nebula Award and National Book Prize. In her witty sardonic collection of essays, Le Guin defends science fiction and fantasy as important and worthy means of literature – a direct response to the elitist critics of the time who condemned speculative fiction as merely for kids. One thing I really enjoyed was learning about her process. She talks about writing fiction as a process of discovery rather than planning. In some of her most acclaimed novels she never used a plan or scaffold – she just simply started writing. I love thinking of writing and creativity as a process of discovery. It’s as if our creation is actually a search for something deep inside of us that we previously were not aware of. She’s a great author who I would absolutely recommend to just about anyone. I am also reading her science fiction masterpiece – ‘The Left Hand of Darkness’. Definitely a brilliant piece of philosophical and existential ponderance.
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This is a new initiative I’d like to try for the creative corner. We’ve seen great success with poetry submissions, and I love receiving people’s artistic forms of self-expression from across the community. Therefore, I’d like to open another submission opportunity. Book Club is essentially your opportunity to talk about a book you love. Whether it’s a timeless classic, a sci-masterpiece, a contemporary chart topper or a local star – the book club gives you license to submit a short review about a book you’ve been reading and can’t stop talking about. How to Submit: Send through the book’s title and author A short review or discussion of up to 250 words If you’re up for it – a photo of you with the book Email everything to sebastian@lifepublishinggroup.com Book Club submissions, once approved, will be included in the Creative Corner, space permitting.
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Reeflections Student Art Competition returns in 2026, now open to Year 9–12 students across the region. Hosted by Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays. Focuses on artworks inspired by the Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef, and natural environment. Accepts painting, drawing, and sculpture entries. Part of the region’s cultural calendar and linked to the Great Barrier Reef Festival. Aims to encourage youth creativity and environmental connection. Supports emerging artists with a professional exhibition opportunity.
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In the past in sugar towns such as Proserpine, there were many districts and in each of these there were one teacher schools. One of these schools was the Cannon Valley School (situated at what is now known as Cannonvale). It served the population of Lower Cannon Valley, the beach and Jubilee Pocket, before the days of regular transport and few cars. The school opened on April 25, 1910, with 18 pupils enrolled on the first day. In its early years, between 1910 and 1933, most of the teachers were female. One of these was Miss Lurline Argaet who was appointed in 1926. Her father assured her it would be a great experience and a complete change, especially being "on the coast." The trip to her new post was adventurous: she took trains to Townsville and Proserpine, stayed overnight at the Palace Hotel, and was then driven twenty miles by Mr Doug Debney, President of the school committee to the valley, where Mr and Mrs Stanley, owners of a cane farm, would board her. Picture this – It was January, the middle of the wet season. Roads were unsealed. Creeks and rivers were in flood. And then, along the way, there was a blow out in one of the tyres. Imagine Lurline’s reaction when Mr Debney dropped into the conversation the fact that the school was a further four miles on from the Stanleys but that there would be a horse for her to ride as most of the children either walked or rode to school. The warm welcome from the Stanleys and their children lessened her apprehension. She was made to feel at home and Mrs Stanley became very interested in Lurline’s welfare. The Stanley boys were always most helpful. Despite everything about farm life and animals being foreign to her, riding the horse wasn’t as daunting as Lurline had at first thought. Before long, she became quite adept at catching her horse, tempting him with a piece of bread and fitting his bridle and saddle. Joker, as he was called, was friendly, and although slow, he responded well when Lurline pressed her heels to nudge him forward or change direction. Water over Galbraith Creek was the only thing that frightened him. Joker was always well looked after and saddled by the boys for their teacher’s ride home. The school was a small, high set, one roomed building with a verandah on blocks, a rainwater tank, out back toilet and a fenced in horse paddock which had large trees. Lurline developed her own method of teaching and found the pupils very trusting. Grouped downstairs under the trees, some chanting tables, others their spelling, Lurline would be upstairs teaching new work. One afternoon lesson a week, the girls learned needlework and the boys maintained the garden. Being absent or late for school rarely occurred. Country schools were very important to families – they were the centre of social life. There was a hall, tennis court and cricket club in almost every district. Lurline was very much a part of the social life in the Cannon Valley district – attending dances at the hall and participating in euchre and crib evenings in the home.One one of these occasions, she met Eddie Dray and they married in 1928. Lurline’s dedication and qualifications were not enough to overcome the regulations of that era, which forced many talented women out of the profession simply because they married – and so, Lurline was required to resign in 1927 after two years of service. Lurline Dray (nee Argaet) died suddenly at her Airlie Beach home in 1977 aged 69 years. Story sourced from Proserpine Historical Museum archives. Photo used with permission. Captions First school building at Cannon Valley Arbor Day Lurline and Eddie Dray
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This week’s photo of the week winner is Natalie Stockdale for this unusual perspective of the Eiffel Tower, Paris, under the theme of ‘Angles’. This week’s theme is ‘Off the beaten track’. Join the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers group on Facebook to get involved. Photo contributed by the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers group on Facebook.
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Philip Henry Thornton Clay was a military hero and dedicated environmentalist, who spent the latter part of his life in Proserpine, performing sea rescues and preserving our natural environment. Philip’s commitment to the environment was very evident as early as age 15 when he helped to raise a petition which eventually pressured government to reject a development in a valued park. All this happened in Surrey and Essex, England, where he spent his childhood, but he retained this avid interest in conservation throughout his life, with he and his wife Joan acting as committed members of the Proserpine Branch of the Wildlife Preservation Society in their retirement. However, Philip will be mainly remembered for his courageous efforts as a pilot in the World War Two. As a young man he had joined the UK Merchant Navy and in 1941 moved into the Royal Air Force. It was in this capacity that he was recognised. He piloted a spitfire over Germany and Algiers until 1945 when he was shot down over Germany. Subsequently he escaped from a German POW hospital. He joined Occupation Forces in Norway. Proserpine Guardian 10/04/86 describes his courageous military career: … Phil was commissioned and awarded, on separate occasions, the British Empire Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross. Still in the Air Force..he received the Queen’s commendation for Valuable Service for leading the RAF Vampire Aerobatic Team in display stunts over England. Later he was to win a Bar to his DFC for helicopter evacuation work in the Border War in South Yemen. Philip left the RAF in 1961 and flew helicopters in Canada for three years before emigrating to Australia with his wife and daughter, flying helicopters for Ansett. In 1970 he came to Proserpine to fly Sikorski Helicopters to Hayman and back until his retirement nine years later. In North Queensland Phil continued to live his life in service to others and, in 1972, was awarded the first Australian Queen’s Gallantry Medal for a helicopter rescue from rough North Queensland waves. MEDALS: D.F.C. and Bar Australian Gallantry Medal B.E.M. D.F.M. Commendation [Air] Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Museum
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Troy Liesch is a Property Specialist with the Taylors Team, bringing many years of experience in the sale of rural and residential property across Central Queensland and the Whitsundays region. With a strong background in both lifestyle and acreage markets, Troy offers a grounded, practical approach to real estate, supported by extensive local knowledge and a deep understanding of what drives successful property outcomes in regional Queensland. His experience allows him to confidently guide clients through every stage of the selling process, from appraisal through to settlement. Now part of the Taylors Team, Troy continues to build on his reputation for professionalism, reliability, and commitment to achieving the best possible results for his clients. Outside of real estate, Troy is firmly rooted in the Whitsundays community, where he lives with his wife and their three children. Family life plays a central role for him, and he enjoys spending his time supporting his children’s sporting activities, attending dance events, and socialising with friends and neighbours throughout the region. For enquiries or property advice, Troy can be contacted on 0428 646 599 or via email at troy@tpsre.com.au.
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Friday 17th April Exhibitions Opening Night 6pm Residents are encouraged to come along and experience an evening of art and conversation as Mackay Regional Council and Artspace Mackay launch three new exhibitions on Friday, April 17. Officially opened by Mayor Greg Williamson, the free community event offers visitors the chance to be among the first to view the exhibitions Matters of Time: Contemporary Metal Practices, Joshua Searle: Poco a poco, se va lejos (Little by little, you go far) and Judy Watson: skeletons. Attendees can also meet visiting artists, curators, gallery staff and volunteers, making it a welcoming opportunity for art lovers and curious locals alike. Artspace Mackay Saturday 18th April Friday Pop up Jumbo Sale 9am (Friday and Saturday) Bargain hunters are invited to stop by a community jumbo sale this weekend, offering a wide range of items at affordable prices. Running from 9am to 4pm on Friday, April 17, and 9am to 3pm on Saturday, April 18, the sale will feature plenty of treasures including plants, jigsaw puzzles, books, clothing, toys, kitchenware and craft items, both new and pre-loved. Locals are encouraged to come along, browse the stalls and enjoy the thrill of discovering a great bargain while supporting a community event. Marian Town Centre Book Of The Month 10am Art lovers are invited to take a closer look at Artspace Mackay’s Book of the Month for April during a special free viewing on Saturday, April 18 at 10am. Held in the Foyer Gallery at Artspace Mackay in the Civic Precinct, the popular program allows visitors to explore a featured artist’s book up close, page by page, with the guidance of knowledgeable Artspace volunteers. The monthly event offers a unique opportunity to experience artist books in an interactive way. Attendance is free, but registration is encouraged via the Artspace Mackay website. Artspace Mackay Sunday 19th April Slade Point Community Markets 8am The Slade Point Community Markets invite residents to enjoy a relaxed morning of nature, creativity and local connection at the Slade Point Community Gardens. Held on the third Sunday of each month from 8am to 11am, the markets feature local stallholders offering handmade goods, fresh produce and treats, alongside food vans, fresh coffee and live music. Visitors can also join a gentle morning yoga or stretch session, while children enjoy family-friendly activities. Community members are encouraged to bring friends, family and picnic blankets and spend the morning supporting local businesses. Dogs are welcome on leads, with owners asked to clean up after their pets. Slade Point Community Gardens Tuesday 21st April Community Coffee Shout – With Shirlz Area Specialist 9am Residents are invited to enjoy a free coffee and friendly catch-up at a community coffee shout hosted by local real estate specialist Shirlz Russell. From 9am on Tuesday, April 21, the first 50 coffees will be covered at The Avenue Cafe, giving locals a chance to connect and start the morning together. With no conditions attached, the simple gesture is Shirlz’s way of thanking the North Mackay community. Locals are encouraged to drop by, grab a coffee and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while the coffees last. Avenue Cafe Mackay 1- Artspace Mackay holding Book Of The Month on April 19th. Photo supplied 2 –Joshua Searle’s exhibition Poco a Poco launches on April 17th. Photo supplied 3- Slade point community market will take place on April 19th. Photo source: Facebook 4- Shirlz Russell will be shouting the first 50 coffees at The Avenue Café on April 21st. Photo source: Facebook
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Teams from the Mackay Monarchs have returned from the Senior State Age Netball Championships in Townsville after four days of strong competition and warm conditions. Mackay Netball Association congratulated players for their efforts on court, noting the teams played impressive netball and created lasting memories during the tournament. Final placings for SSA 2026 were: • 15 Maroon – Championship Division – 18th • 15 Blue – Division 3 – 5th • 16 Maroon – Division 3 – 7th • 18 Maroon – Division 3 – 4th Designer – please place pic of girls playing netball near this story** Sponsors Back Monarchs Campaign Mackay Netball Association has thanked the sponsors who supported the Mackay Monarchs during their 2026 Senior State Age Netball Championships campaign. Local businesses played an important role in helping the teams travel and compete, with support provided by: Fitness Cartel Mackay Pool Professionals Mackay Diggers Landscape Supplies FMS Group Focus on Flooring Xtra - Mackay Mackay Turf Club Ablecut Concrete Cutting & Coring Mackay Aury Australia Mayzier Transport Devcon Photo source: Mackay Netball Association – MNA
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The highly anticipated 2026 North Queensland Games are now just around the corner and are set to energise the region over the May Day long weekend. Celebrating its 42nd year, the event will be hosting 40+ sports, predominantly in Mackay, but also the Whitsundays and Isaac regions. Athletes of all ages are welcome to attend. The North Queensland Sports Foundation has developed these games around mass participation and inclusivity. Athletes of all ages and abilities are encouraged to take part and build confidence and community connection. Organisers also anticipate economic benefits to be brought by the event, after previous North Queensland Games saw thousands of athletes and visitors flock to the region to participate and show their support. A primary goal of the games this year is to sow seeds amongst young athletes ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, giving belief that their Olympic journey can start right here in Mackay. Natalie Cook will be joining the 2026 North Queensland Games as an ambassador, having competed in the North Queensland Games early in her sporting journey before going on to win an Olympic gold medal in volleyball. Her story shows what is possible when opportunity meets hard work and community support. Mackay’s own, former boxing world champion Liam Paro, will also be returning as an ambassador. “The North Queensland Games were a big part of my journey when I was younger, so it’s pretty special to now come back and be part of it as an ambassador,” Liam Paro Said. “I’m proud to be from Mackay and even prouder to be leading the torch in 2026. Regional clubs are where it all starts, and I’m passionate about shining a light on the talent we have here. If I can inspire even one young athlete to dream bigger and take that step onto the world stage, then that’s what it’s all about.” The 2026 North Queensland Games will officially kick off with an Opening Ceremony on Friday 1 May at Harrup Park, Mackay, which the organisation claims will “bring the community together for a vibrant celebration of sport, culture and regional pride.” “The free, family-friendly event will feature a dynamic program of entertainment and experiences, including community stalls, food trucks, amusements and interactive activities for all ages,” they shared. “A highlight of the evening will be the traditional March of Athletes, where clubs and competitors from across North Queensland will come together in a powerful display of unity and regional spirit. “The ceremony will also include the official lighting of the Games torch, marking the beginning of the 2026 Games, followed by a spectacular fireworks display and some live entertainment to close out the night.” What? The NQ Games Opening Ceremony When? Friday 1st May, 5pm Doors Open Where? Harrup Park, Mackay Captions The NQ Games will bring together athletes of all ages across 40+ sports. Photo source: Facebook Liam Paro receiving the Pride of the Region award from Mayor Greg Williamson at the Media Launch of the 2026 games. Photo supplied
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Students at Mackay State High School recently took part in a practical learning session as Year 8 AEA students began preparing for upcoming reef-based STEM projects. Held at the school’s memorial pool, the session introduced students to essential snorkelling skills, helping build confidence and capability ahead of their fieldwork on the reef, where they will collect real-world data. The activity encouraged teamwork, enthusiasm and a willingness to step outside comfort zones while developing skills that connect directly to classroom learning. Photo source: Mackay State High School
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Monday 6 April 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points Tuesday Evening 7 April 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points Wednesday 8 April 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points Thursday Evening 9 April 2026 – 5 Table One Winner – Green Points Friday 10 April 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points Saturday 11 April 2026 –Section A - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points Saturday 11 April 2026 – Section B - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points Contributed with thanks to Joy Block Photo supplied
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Participants from Mackay Parkrun celebrated several milestone achievements late last month, recognising both volunteers and runners for their dedication. Len Howarth marked an impressive 50 volunteer milestone, while Trent Rankin, Olivia Broadley and Jacob Attiwill each celebrated their 50th finish milestones. Mackay parkrun is a free, timed 5km run or walk held at 7am every Saturday morning, organised by the community, for the community. Photo source: Mackay Parkrun
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The Club Championship Mixed Pairs Final was played on Saturday, April 11 at North Mackay Bowls Club. Players in the final were Daphne Offield and Dave McKendry, who faced Donna Gordon and Chris Banney. It was another great final for the club, featuring some special shots, several congested heads around the jack, and precision bowling that made it a superb match. Daphne and Dave were the eventual winners and were thrilled with the result, while Donna and Chris were valiant in defeat. Congratulations to everyone who competed in this great event, and of course to the very happy winners. Contributed with thank to Sue Hazledine (L) Chris Banney, Donna Gordon, Dave McKendry and Daphne Offield. Photo credit: Donna Gordon
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The sun shone bright over the greens as the Mackay Ladies Bowling Club celebrated its 33rd birthday. President Marie welcomed 52 members and district bowlers to the club. The atmosphere was bursting with laughter, color, and a touch of friendly competition. Newer members joined in the fun, eager to make their own memories. The friendly birthday tournament saw playful rivalries reignited, with cheers and good-natured teasing echoing across the rinks. After the game bowlers enjoyed the lunch provided by the Mackay club ladies As the cake was cut by President Marie and MDLBA President Lorraine The guests joined in singing “Happy Birthday.” The Mackay Ladies Bowling Club’s 33rd birthday was a tribute to the spirit of camaraderie, community, and love for the game that keeps the club’s heart beating strong. During the festivities the MACKAY Bowling Club Board committee presented a $7000 cheque to the St Helens bowling Club to help them with their flood repairs. The money was raised by having bowls, raffles and a few large donations from members and patrons of the club. Many thanks to all. Contributed with thanks to Robyn Schatkowski President Lorraine and President Marie cutting cake M Mayfield J Jorgensen(Makay Club) Rose Condon and Helen Strachan (st Helen’s Club) Photos supplied
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Over thirty members of the Mackay Road Runners and their families enjoyed a perfect Sunday afternoon with a social 5km and 10km run/walk starting from the Magpies Sporting Complex carpark precincts. Despite the humidity and slightly higher temperatures, runners found the well-marked, slightly undulating course through the Gooseponds and beyond a challenging change of pace following the club’s 50th anniversary celebrations the previous night. The club now looks ahead to the annual Construct Health Physiotherapy 3km Club Championship next Sunday morning, starting at 7am from Queen’s Park at the Shakespeare Street carpark entrance. Thank you to Construct Health Physiotherapy for your continued support, which is greatly appreciated. Both members and non-members are welcome to take part; however, to accrue Club Championship points, participants must be a club member. Contributed with thanks to Janelle Tilse 5846 – The Knezevic family enjoy a social stroll/cycle at the Mackay Road Runners Magpies 5km/10k social run. 5889 – Andrew Wallace, Stephen Oberg and Carmel Mahon relax after their 10km Magpies social run efforts. 5838 – Emily with son Ollie (left) enjoy the Mackay Road Runners Magpies 5km social run. 5893 – The Sant family enjoy a run/walk with their twin girls. 5904 – Jo Skinner and Craig McGahey with their grandies. 5892 – Jose Short (right) with daughter Phoebe (left) and Bruno (centre). 5863 – Ashley Miles (right) running whilst his daughter rides alongside. 5834 – Runner, Bianca Miles (left) is well supported by her cyclist daughter. 5845 – Carolyn Mapes with her ‘baby’ Sonny. Photos supplied
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Students at Whitsunday Anglican School took to the course for the annual Junior School Cross Country, with runners embracing both the challenge and fun of the day in a lively atmosphere of encouragement and school spirit. Year 12 students supported the event by running alongside and cheering on younger competitors, while staff, facilities crews and families helped create a strong sense of community from the sidelines. Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School
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