After going into caretaker mode in 2022, Sarina & District Athletics Club has successfully reopened in 2024 thanks to the support of local volunteers and businesses.

With a new committee in 2024, the Club had to go through extensive updates to revive the athletics field, membership, marketing and finance options.

Club Secretary Nicole McCowan said that the Club’s base of operations, the athletics field, “didn’t have anyone looking after it for over 12 months”.

“Getting it up to scratch was a huge effort – it took tractors, slashers, mowers and a lot of helpers from all over the community – and it looks beautiful now,” Ms McCowan said.

“We also had to upgrade our operations – including reactivating the website and updating how we process memberships, to make it easier for people to join.

“Thanks to support from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, part of this upgrade included a Square cash register and iPad. So instead of just doing cash, which has made taking payments for memberships, food and uniforms so much easier, more convenient and of course, more secure.

“We are now sitting at 47 paid members, with another 15-20 people in a trial membership.

“We are incredibly pleased with the results and so appreciative of all the help we’ve received from our community.”

Community Bank Sarina Manager Charmaine Matsen said that the Bank were “big supporters”, not just of the Athletics Club, but also “seeing local volunteers put their heart and soul into bringing back something that is so important for our whole community”.

“Getting the Club back on its’ feet was a massive challenge, and thanks to some amazing people and support from local organisations – they are back and we are so proud to be a part of that,” Ms Matsen said.

“The range of activities held by Sarina & District Athletics Club provides even more options and opportunities for the whole family to get involved and get active.”

The Club’s training days are every Monday from 3.30-5pm and Club Days are the last Sunday of the month. All are welcome to join – for membership enquiries and other information, visit their website at www.revolutionise.com.au/sarinaanddistrict.

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Community Bank Sarina’s mascot Piggy enjoying the relaunch of the Sarina & District Athletics Club

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When Sunshine Coast Falcons flyer Flynn Camilleri returned to his old Mackay stamping ground last weekend, he didn’t require a knowledge test.

The former Cutters winger knows every blade of grass on BB Print Stadium – the scene for many of his try-scoring feats in the QRL Hostplus Cup competition.

Back on his home patch the quicksilver Camilleri made his presence felt in the Falcons’ rousing 38-20 victory over Mackay to stay on track for the finals.

The elusive try merchant opened the scoring after twenty-seven minutes with a customary four-pointer in front of a partisan home crowd and menaced his former club with powerful attacking surges from all parts of the field.

A try double by Falcons fullback Zacariah Miles in the space of six minutes helped the visitors establish a handy 18-0 lead at the half-time interval.

Queensland Under 19s forward Jamal Shibasaki crashed through tackles to score the Cutters' opening try after the break with half-back Riley Dean adding the extras.

Sunshine Coast rammed home their advantage when crack centres Taine Couper and Scott Galeano dashed over for tries to open up a 30-12 lead.

Mackay winger Semi Valemei and lock forward Sean Mullany gave their side hope with second half tries before interchange Harrison McIndoe sealed victory for the Falcons with his team’s sixth try in the dying moments.

Sunshine Coast half-back Cody Hunter experienced an on day with his trusty boot – landing six conversions plus a penalty goal from his seven attempts.

The win lifts the Falcons to sixth spot on the Hostplus Cup table with the Cutters in ninth place on 18 points from fifteen matches played.

Mackay will face another tough assignment against the second-ranked Norths Devils at Denison Park in Bowen at 3.30pm when the competition resumes on Saturday, July 27.

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Mackay Cutters

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By Hannah McNamara

Mackay is becoming the epitome of regional talent after celebrating the rise of 24-year-old Lachlan Stitt, now crowned the Welterweight Boxing Champion of 2024.

Known in the ring as 'Deadshot,' Lachlan achieved a remarkable knockout victory at the recent EternalMMA event held on the Gold Coast.

Despite now residing in Sydney, Lachlan fondly acknowledges Mackay as his hometown and points his beginnings in combat sports to his early days playing karate and footy at the age of 14. His journey into mixed martial arts began in 2015 at Mackay MMA and since relocating to Sydney in 2016, he has continued to hone his skills at the same gym.

Reflecting on his recent victory, Lachlan recalls the intensity of facing a seasoned opponent with significantly more fight experience and international training credentials.

"It was a crazy experience," he admits, "facing such a tough opponent made me nervous, but I believed in my skillset and that belief showed on the night."

Driven by a relentless pursuit of improvement, Lachlan approaches each training session with a dedication to honing his skills in striking, wrestling and jujitsu. For Lachlan, training isn't just about preparing for his next fight, but rather a continuous journey of self-discovery and mastery.

"I enjoy the process of getting better every day," he shares.

"For me, it's about striving for that 1% improvement in everything I do.

“I'm always seeking out challenges and I’m never satisfied with just being mediocre, I want to be the best welterweight in the world."

Offering words of encouragement to aspiring athletes, Lachlan emphasises that dedication and hard work are foundational to success in all areas of life. He believes wholeheartedly in the principle that consistent effort and perseverance are key ingredients to achieving your goals.

"Just give it a go," he says.

"Where you come from doesn't define you.

“Coming from a small town like Mackay, I moved to Sydney and dedicated myself to my sport so anything is possible if you're willing to put in the effort and push your limits."

“You can become the best in the country or even in the world, but it’s up to you because you put your own limit on yourself,” he remarked.

Lachlan's success from regional beginnings to becoming a welterweight champion has been a powerful reminder in the community of the talent and potential that lies within every determined mindset, every passion, and every dream in the hearts of those who were born and raised in the Mackay region.

“Anything can happen and I’m the living product of that.”

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24-year-old Lachlan Stitt from Mackay recently took home the title of Welterweight Champion at the EternalMMA showdown in the GoldCoast. Images supplied

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Mackay Novice Pairs Congress was played on Saturday with 16 pairs from Bowen, Mackay & Sydney competing.
Well done to all the Placegetters and Director Ian Cruikshank and Convenor Anne Lutz.

First place was Jill Brabon & Noel Saunders with Annie Lynch & Diane Stokes second.

Weekly Results
Monday 8 July 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2nd
Antonia Tarradas / Victor Mason
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
3rd
Noel Bugeia / Geoffrey Patterson

Tuesday Evening 9 July 2024 3 Table One Winner
1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Janet Hansen
3rd
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
4th
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
Wednesday 10 July 2024 – Founders Teams Week 1 of 3 - 9 Table Mitchell Red Points

Team
1st
Holewa – Diane Holewa / Max Holewa / Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Block - Monica Darley / Kath Poole / Diane Stokes / Joy Block
3rd
Goodchild – Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild / David Ting / Ming Ting
4th
Conroy – Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia / Alan Brown / Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen
Thursday Evening 11 July 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Julie Lam / Carl Hildebrand
1st
Frances Brown / Sandy Patterson

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

3rd
Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 12 July 2024 –7 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Richard Wix / Geoffrey Patterson

3rd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
4th
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

5th
Edward Kleise / Nancy Wix
6th
David Ting / Ming Ting

Saturday 13 July 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
1st
Richard Wix / Patricia Garner

2nd
Jan Harris / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

3rd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

Saturday 13 July 2024 – Mackay Novice Congress Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Jill Brabon / Noel Saunders
2nd
Annie Lynch / Diane Stokes

3rd
Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden
4th
Anne Lutz / Diane Cox

5th
Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell
6th
Lillian Clark / Stephen Towers

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The Mackay Novice Pairs Congress was played on Saturday with 32 pairs from Bowen, Mackay & Sydney competing.  L-R: Jill, Noel, Annie and Diane. Image supplied

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Debbie Mackenzie, the Games Coordinator of North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club, made club history by winning all four of her matches in the B Grade Singles Championship of Champions competition held at the West Tigers Bowls Club.
In the Open Singles Champion of Champions, Chris Woo, one of the club's Coaches and Umpires, put up a commendable performance. Chris triumphed in her first game against seasoned player Heather Brown from Proserpine. Although her journey ended there this year, Chris’s determination and talent ensure she will return to compete against the best in the Mackay district in the coming years.

Debbie Mackenzie
Chris Woo

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With seven-time past King of the Mountain champion, Liam Mumford, and reigning Queen of the Mountain champion, Alana Kenzevic, in the fifty-strong field, the competition for the annual King and Queen of the Mountain event finishing in Eungella was always going to be tough.
The Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy/Podiatry Mackay Junior King and Queen of the Mountain was unfortunately a quieter affair due to many local junior runners being away at state titles and various other representative sporting competitions.
Accepting the Podiatry Mackay cash prize as the Junior King of the Mountain, the Laura Pettifer Inspirational perpetual award, and a $100 Rebel gift voucher donated by Laura Pettifer’s mum, Veronica, Ari Harris was a well-deserved gold medal champion over the 3.2 km all-uphill event, ahead of second-placed Oliver Graves. Oliver had a sensationally brave run despite his last-minute decision to enter the race.
Laura, who tragically passed away in a cycling training event in 2008, was a talented athlete in many sports including triathlon, individual running, swimming, and cycling. She was the reigning Eungella Queen of the Mountain in the year of her passing. Laura was widely known for her inspirational personality, smile, and twinkle in her eye. Her legacy to encourage and inspire will continue through this event for many more years to come.
Fourteen-year-old Max Scotton was the proud recipient of a $100 Rebel voucher donated by Veronica Pettifer for his efforts in the 6.4 km open event. This is not Max’s first attempt on this course, having first participated when he was only eight years old. Max is a great role model and an outstanding young man.
The reigning Queen of the Mountain, Alana Kenzevic, achieved a personal best time over the challenging 6.4 km one-way course, marking her second consecutive victory. The relatively flat initial two kilometres served as a steady introduction to the daunting climb ahead, with every runner peering upwards towards the winding road that led to the finish line at the Chalet precinct. Second-placed first-timer on the mountain, Jodie Elliot, finished just three minutes behind Alana, followed by Naomi Ballard (3rd) and Mel Esau (4th).
Paul MacKenzie was crowned the M-Test King of the Mountain with a personal best time of 32 minutes and 45 seconds. The 27-minute 51-second record set in 1991 by legendary thirteen-time winner of the Mountain, Charlie Martel, remains a tough one to crack. Paul added another win to his impressive tally, securing the Mackay Road Runners' prestigious Eungella event title. Second-placed Hamish Donnollan set a cracking pace to secure the silver medal position, just 14 seconds ahead of third-placed Jonathan Davies, with Liam Mumford rounding out the cash prize winners in fourth place.
Outstanding efforts were seen all around, as conquering that Mountain is not for the faint-hearted. Veteran gentlemen Len Haworth and David Isbister delivered superhuman performances, as did Corey Gould, Teresa Hackney, Tim Caddy, Nicole Ballingall, Carmel Mahon, Mick Scholer, Andrew Short, Jose Short, Shane Donnollan, Scott McIntosh, Emily Green, Andrew Wallace, Matt Graves, Grant Holmstrom, Clinton Mackie, Brenda Windsor, Robin Stinson, Soey Harris, Bradley Lenahan, and Daniel Scotton.
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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy/Podiatry Mackay Junior Kings’ of the Mountain – Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr, Max Scotton (6.4km), Ari Harris (1st 3.2km), Oliver Graves (2nd 3.2km)  and Mackay Road Runners Vice-President, Mick Scholer

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M-Test Open Queens’ of the Mountain – Jodie Elliot (2nd), Mel Esau (4th), Naomi Ballard (3rd), Alana Knezevic (1st), Vivian Knezevic (front), Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr, Mackay Road Runners Vice-President, Mick Scholer

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M-Test Open Kings’ of the Mountain, Jonathan Davies (3rd), Hamish Donnollan (2nd), Paul Mackenzie (1st) with Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr and Mackay Road Runners Vic President, Mick Scholer. (absent Liam Mumford 4th)

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Feeling the early morning chills at the Netherdale start line (left to right) Carmel Mahon, Andrew Wallace, Scott McIntosh

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Over fifty runners including former 7-time King of the Mountain champion, Liam Mumford (#71), line up for a 7am run from Netherdale to the Eungella Chalet (6.4km) for the 2024 title

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures May 28, 2024:

Division 1:

Green (Tim Shehan, Leo Gilbert) d Brown (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson) 6-3. Tim d Barry 8, 5, -9, 4.

Purple (Emma Widdup, Tony Bowman, Robbie Richards) d Blue (Will VanDeKaa, Steven Whiting, Lee Brake) 8-3. Robbie d Steven 9, -8, -7, 9, 9.

White (Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) d Red (Geoff Cowan, Anne Sheridan, Daniel Warfield) 10-1. Geoff d Mark -6, 10, -7, 6, 9.

Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) d Black (Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) 7-4. Ishan d Janice -11, 3, -9, 11, 7.

Division 2:

Gold (Steve Mathieson, Rohit Bansod, Ollie Hamelink) d Tan (Val Austin, Judy Zahn) 8-3. Val d Ollie 7, -6, -5, 5, 12.

Cyan (Matt West, Trent Day, Leonie Patroni) d Lime (Anaya Reelh, Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-4. Anaya d Leonie -9, 9, 8, -8, 7.

Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, David Symons) d Teal (Craig VanDeKaa, Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh) 9-2. Delma d Aarnav -10, 5, 10, -2, 2.

Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro Premachandra, Mark Stam) d Grey (Doug Dungavell, Adrian Marsh) Niro d Doug 7, 6, -7, 10.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures May 28, 2024:

Division 1:

Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Ross deBoer) d Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Delma d Branko 9, -9, 7, -9, 6.

Ibis (Tony Bowman, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) d Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, John McGee) 7-5. Tony d George 8, -11, -9, 7, 12.

Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Marie Taylor) d Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) 7-5. Charlie/Marie d Peter/Kevin 11, -3, -10, 9, 8.

Division 2:

Cockatoos (Kim Challender, Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) d Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Gerry Synnott, Ian Dodds) 8-4. Kim d Judi -11, 5, 6, -6, 5.

Magpies (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Kim Daffy) d Doves (Pam Keune, Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba) 9-3. Kim d Iris -9, 13, 7, -11, 9.

Division 3:

Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey, Nadine) d Prawn (Madge Saunders, Trish Zamparuti, Glenda Dutton) 11-1. Cheryl d Madge -5, 4, 7, -6, 8.

Squid (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) d Crab (Pam Keune, Myles Dutton) 9-3. Pam/Myles d Sharon/Allison 8, 9, -5, 10.

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Steven Whiting and Tony Bowman played one of the longest games seen in years when a new night fixture season started last week. Steven (pictured) evened the match two all after being two down, winning the fourth game 22-20 and going on to take the decider. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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The Mackay Cutters secured an impressive 20-14 victory over the Tweed Seagulls in the QRL Hostplus Cup, with crucial tries from Jaxon Purdue, Josh Smith, and Riley Dean.
Playing a pivotal role in the number six jumper, Purdue, fresh from his successful NRL stint with the North Queensland Cowboys, combined seamlessly with halfback Riley Dean. This dynamic duo was instrumental in helping the Cutters notch their sixth win of the season, keeping their finals hopes alive.
Purdue, a standout Queensland Under 19s star, opened Mackay’s scoring with a try at the 28-minute mark, putting the team ahead 6-4 after an early four-pointer from Seagulls winger Brayden McGrady. A penalty goal by Tweed’s fullback and skipper Lindon McGrady levelled the score at 6-all going into halftime.
The Cutters regained the lead shortly after the break when centre Josh Smith crossed for a converted try. Dean then added a penalty goal, extending the lead to 14-6. Dean further showcased his skills by scoring and converting another try six minutes later, setting the visitors up for victory at 20-6.
Despite a converted try from Seagulls' second-rower Ioane Seiuli and a late penalty goal from Lindon McGrady, the Cutters held firm for a dramatic finish.
This win keeps the Cutters in ninth place on the ladder, tied on 16 points with the Souths Logan Magpies, who dominated the Wynnum Manly Seagulls 40-10 at Brisbane’s Kougari Oval.
Mackay coach Michael Comerford praised the contributions of Purdue, winger Semi Valemei, hooker Jai Hansen, and forward Jamal Shibasaki, all of whom delivered strong performances after being included from the Cowboys system.
The Cutters will face another crucial match this Sunday at BB Print Stadium, hosting the sixth-placed Sunshine Coast Falcons at 2pm.

Gagai Back In Maroons

Coach Billy Slater has recalled Dane Gagai to the starting lineup after he missed last year's series and was named 18th man for Game II this year.
The 33-year-old, who debuted in a decider at Suncorp Stadium in 2015 and has since played 22 games for the Maroons, earning the FOGS Dick 'Tosser' Turner Medal, expressed his excitement: "Obviously, it's a special feeling, being back in the 17."
The Newcastle Knights star recounted when Slater called him last year to let him know he wasn't in the team: "It wasn't an easy decision for him, but it was one he had to make moving forward with the Queensland side and winning the series last year. He reassured me it was not a 'that's it, you're done' type phone call."
"My goal is just to go out there and do my job, as boring as it sounds. Just to hopefully not let my teammates down and not let my state down."
Match: Maroons vs. Blues Game 3 - Wednesday, 17th July
8:05pm

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Mackay’s very own Paris Santacaterina, has carved out an impressive legacy at Dodge City Community College (DCCC), leaving a memorable mark on the basketball courts over the past two seasons.

Her journey from Australia to the heartland of America has been defined by extraordinary achievements both on and off the court.

Paris achieved a milestone that hadn't been accomplished at DCCC since 1987, earning NJCAA All-American honours. This recognition played a pivotal role in the Conquistadors' success, leading them to a remarkable 27-7 season record, a coveted spot in the NJCAA DI National Tournament and their first-ever victory at that level.

As the team's top scorer, averaging 14.9 points per game with impressive shooting percentages, she also contributed significantly with rebounds, assists and steals, showcasing her all-around skill.

Not only did she achieve a standout 56-11 overall record and 42-6 in KJCCC play across two seasons but she was also instrumental in securing the KJCCC title after a 29-win season, marking a historic milestone for the program.

This season, despite finishing second in the KJCCC, Paris led her team back to the NJCAA National Tournament, where they secured their first-ever tournament win.

Her statistical achievements further solidify her legacy at DCCC, where she ranks prominently in school history for both single-season and career performances.

Off the court, Paris’ dedication to academic excellence is equally commendable, maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA over two years and earning recognition as an Academic All-American.

Looking ahead, Paris’ journey continues as she transfers to the University of San Diego, (USD), bringing her talents and leadership to their basketball program. Her new role as a Torero promises to build on her successes at DCCC where she is expected to contribute significantly both on and off the court.

Beyond her academic achievements, Paris’ early basketball years in Mackay have no doubt foreshadowed her current and future accomplishments.

Named MVP of the U18 conference championship and a four-time Queensland State representative, she has consistently demonstrated her skills and leadership from an early age.

As she prepares for her next chapter at USD, Paris remains focused on her goals of continuing to excel in basketball as well as pursuing a degree in education.

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From Mackay to Dodge City and now heading to San Diego, Paris Santacaterina's basketball journey has been nothing but a hooping success. Images supplied

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By Hannah McNamara

Two local boys, Sangwani Chinula and Lucas Haack from Mackay have captured the hearts of their community with their exceptional achievements in rugby league, earning esteemed positions in Queensland representative teams and showcasing their talent on a broader field.

Sangwani (also known as Sasa) was born in New Zealand, however, moved to Mackay at the age of two, embracing the region as his home while honing in on his rugby league dream. His hard work recently paid off when he was remarkably selected to play for the Queensland Maroons Under 15 team, following multiple standout performances. Sangwani then achieved the title of Man of the Match in the Australian Secondary Schools Rugby League (ASSRL) Championships where his impact was pivotal during a thrilling match.

Queensland secured a tight 22-16 victory and was said to have been like ‘a real State of Origin match.’ Sangwanis’ dedication to the sport extends beyond matches and his achievements are a testament to his rigorous training routine, supported by speed coach Tina from All Sports Speed and Endurance Training and the guidance of local rugby league coaches, Mick Muscat and Cookie Clarke. His journey and strong work ethic exemplifies the resilience and passion required to excel in regional sports, inspiring young athletes to pursue their goals relentlessly.

Sangwanis’ mother Kim Williams expressed that it was a great weekend in Port Macquarie despite the rain and said “the Queensland boys did really well, it’s really amazing for him to make it this far but it just goes to show that he’s worked really hard to get to where his is and I’m very proud of him.”

‘Lucas Haack, paralleling Sangwanis’ journey, has also carved a remarkable path in rugby league, now playing for Brothers Bulldogs under coach Clint Maye. Despite facing challenges along the way including a ligament tear just weeks before a crucial state carnival, Lucas persevered with determination and resilience. His efforts were rightfully recognised when he was selected for the Queensland White Team for his skill and unwavering perseverance.

Beginning his football journey at the age of five, Lucas's love for the sport has only deepened over the years, fuelled by the infinite support of his track coaches, gym trainers, sporting coaches and family. His consistent dedication reaped a captain position of the Capricornia team prior to his recent selection to play for the Queensland White team. These achievements display the rewarding outcome of consistent dedication in regional sports, encouraging others to follow in his footsteps.

Behind these two outstanding young boys lies a strong support network, including dedicated coaches and trainers who have played pivotal roles in their development through the local magpie league. Tina and Luke from ASSET have also provided immense guidance, ensuring Sangwani and Lucas receive comprehensive coaching across various aspects of their athletic development.
Nichole Haack, Lucas’ mother said “he just works really hard, he tries to perform the best he can to learn as much as possible with every avenue and we’re so proud of him.”

As Sangwani and Lucas continue to represent Mackay and Queensland on the rugby league field, their commitment is as an inspiration to young athletes, proving that with hard work and diligence, dreams can become a reality even from regional beginnings.

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Two local young heroes: Sangwani Chinula and Lucas Haack take Mackay's rugby league dreams to state level. Images supplied

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The pedals are turning for a special event commemorating the farewell of the Walkerston BMX Track on Sunday, July 14th at 2pm.

Situated at McLennan Park in Walkerston, this track has been fundamental to the Mackay BMX community since its inception in 1981 and was the first BMX Club to exist in the Mackay region.

The track was founded by Fred Vella, Jamie Stuart, Joe and Ruth Gaviglio, Doug and Loraine Johnstone and Phil and Carmel Kirwan.

All past and present members, life members, and the wider BMX community are invited to attend, offering an opportunity to gather, reminisce and celebrate the track's memorable past.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own drinks and chairs for a casual afternoon, complemented by a sausage sizzle. This event provides a chance to reconnect with old acquaintances, exchange anecdotes and pay homage to the cherished memories created at this beloved site.

MAD BMX - Mackay and District BMX Club Inc welcome you to ‘Come along, catch up with old friends and share a story whilst we say farewell to a chapter filled with memories.’

What: Walkerston BMX Track Farewell
When: Sunday 14th July - 2pm
Where: Walkerston BMX Track, McLennan Park Walkerston.
What to bring: BYO Drinks & Chairs (Sausage Sizzle)

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All are invited to attend the Walkerston BMX Track Farewell on Sunday the 14th of July to commemorate the historic BMX track loved by many. Images supplied

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 Calling all girls aged 14-17! Unleash your potential and join the thrilling world of Australian Football with AFL Mackay's Youth Girl Competition!

Build confidence, develop your skills, and grow as a player while staying active and enjoying a fun and exciting way to stay fit. Connect with girls who share your passion for the game.

To register your expression of interest, scan the QR code to fill out the registration form, and get ready to play and have fun! Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to be part of the AFL Mackay community and experience the joy of football.

For more information, contact us at harry.hannaford@afl.com.au or follow AFL Mackay on Facebook and Instagram!

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Step into the world of Australian Football and unlock your potential with AFL Mackay's Youth Girl Competition! Image supplied

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The last two weeks have seen some travel for the Sinkers as they headed both north and south for various events.
Brisbane Southside long course meet - This was a well-attended event that drew 184 competitors representing 31 clubs (28 from Queensland, one from NSW, one from Tasmania and one from New Zealand). The program for the meet was split so that the shorter and longer events were spread throughout the day and masters’ swimmers could target their swims according to their personal preferences. Swimmers could enter up to five events earning individual and club points accordingly.
The Sinkers very own Nigel Dalton combined his VP duties with a great set of swims in the 400m, 200m, 100m, 50m back and 50m free to round out his five events. Nigel Placed second in his age group out of the 9 contenders, just a single point separated first from second.
Townsville Ship to Shore - Two intrepid Sinkers attended this event which is one of the most popular swims on the Townsville Open Water Swim Associations (TOWSA) annual calendar. The event offers two ocean swim distances of 1.5 or 3km in the calm waters off Townsville, the Strand serving as the backdrop for this one-of-a-kind open water swim. 
One of their newest members, Steph Gunton placed 5th in the F40-49 age group in a time of 26m 05.76 with Megan Taylor 6th in the same age group hot on her feet with a 26m 06.15. This is a great lead swim of the series as they head to the iconic 70th version of the Magnetic to Townsville 8km swim scheduled for July 20. A number of Sinkers as well as other Mackay representative swimmers will embark on the main event later this month.
Balnagowan Session - In preparation for the Magnetic Island to Townsville swim 4 sinkers travelled to the favourite OWS destination at Balnagowan to enjoy a longer and cooler swim. It’s a great location for a swim offering calm waters and less need for support to accompany the swimmers. Let’s not forget the Sinkers event here, that is scheduled as always for the first Sunday in November (03/11/2024) and offers 1.25, 2.5 and 5k events in this tranquil location.
For further information on upcoming events and sessions, please visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers or phone 0413 805 156.
Contributed by Dan Stampa

Megan Taylor and Steph Gunton aboard the ferry heading to the start line before the race
The Sinkers have been on the move, tackling competitive meets and open water swims with determination and camaraderie. Images supplied

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Twenty-four Mackay players attended the Bowen congress on the weekend, with Mackay scooping the pool with winners in sections A, C and D. The A section was won by Terry Sheedy and Noel Bugeia, who led the competition all weekend. Second in the A section were Diane and Max Holewa, with Frances and Alan Brown in third place. Sandy Patterson and Geoff Cowan won Section C, with Susan Ross and Laura Howland coming in first in Section D, along with Joy Block and Lynne O’Neil second and Vicki Howard and Annette Howe in third place. A great weekend was had by all, with the hospitality and friendship extended to all by the Bowen Club.

Weekly Results
Monday 24 June 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild

3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford

5th
Diane Stokes / Eddie Kleise
6th
Victor Mason / Antonia Taradas

Tuesday Evening 25 June 2024 3Table One Winner
1st
Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
3rd
Susan Gibson / Frances Brown
4th
Joy Block / Helen Van Den Broek
Wednesday 26 June 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz

2nd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd
Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor

3rd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting

4th
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
4th
Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson

Thursday Evening 27 June 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

3rd
Annie Lynch / Geoff Taylor
4th
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 28 June 2024 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Richard Wix / Geoffrey Patterson

3rd
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting

Saturday 29 June 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Christopher Meyers / Robert Carless
2nd
David Ting / Ming Ting

3rd
Jan Harris / Ken Seaniger
4th
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

5th
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill
6th
Patricia Garner / Ian Gaskell

Contributed By Joy Block

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Open Winners, Noel Bugeia and Terry Sheedy
Second in the Open, Max and Di Holewa

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By Chris Karas

St Patrick’s College Mackay is celebrating a historic Confraternity Shield Girls Rugby League championship.

In one of their proudest achievements, the famous sporting nursery has toppled The Cathedral College Rockhampton to bring home the school’s first-ever girl's title.

Played as a curtain-raiser to the women's State Of Origin decider at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium, the St Patrick’s whiz kids edged out their Rockhampton rivals 8-4 to snap a 21-year drought.

Strong running forward Lucy McKendry bustled her way over to score the match-winning try for St Patrick's with sixteen minutes left on the clock.

Emerging Mackay half-back and inspirational skipper Paige Mooney was judged Player of the Final for her masterclass performance in the trophy decider.

It was St Patrick’s maiden Girls Shield title after finishing runners-up to Marymount College Burleigh Waters in the inaugural girls’ final in Mackay during 2022 and to The Cathedral College in last year’s Grand Final in Brisbane.

A team from St Patrick’s hadn’t won a Confraternity Shield since Troy Rovelli’s boys’ team claimed the
title back in 2003.

Triumphant St Patrick’s coach Imogen Healy praised her charges for their commitment and wholehearted team efforts throughout the Carnival.

Promising playmaker Mooney was a revelation at half-back and sparked the attack with her vision and ball skills and was rewarded with a spot in the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Rugby League (QISSRL) Girls All Stars Merit Team.

St Patrick’s powerhouse second-rower Ebony Temple and dynamic fullback Ava Wheeler also gained selection in the Merit Team for their stand-out performances.

Wheeler showed plenty of flair in attack and was a key player in a classy backline that featured talented prospects in Mooney and five eighth Keely Pitt, centres Anthea Campbell and Ella Webb and flying wingers Scarlett Foord and Maddie Simon.

The St Patrick’s forward pack laid the foundations with non-stop displays from the likes of Temple, lock Cianna Faulkner, back-rower Sophie Searle, props Jada Cahill and Kelsi Hazledine and hooker Jaymie Clancy.

Interchange players McKendry, Ruby Watt, Tayla Camilleri, Keely Logan, Brielle Contor, Ruby Lucas, prop Charlotte Large and Tailor Meredith also showed their value in a tremendous team effort.

St Patrick’s topped Pool A with victories over Mt Maria Mitchelton (26-4), Shalom Catholic College Bundaberg (10-4) and Emmaus College Rockhampton (10-4) before eliminating a talented Marymount College 10-0 in a quality semi-final.

Hard running forward Meredith crossed under the posts in the first half and the promising Searle scored after halftime to keep a spirited Marymount College at bay.
Coach Healy turned to her three most experienced campaigners in Mooney, Webb and Wheeler to lead the way.
The outstanding trio lined up for their third successive Shield final – a rare feat – and demonstrated their value and class in the championship triumph.

Ian Schifilliti’s boys team bowed out in the semi-finals after a 6-0 loss to eventual Shield champions Ignatius Park College Townsville.

The reigning Aaron Payne Cup champions were later beaten 18-0 by Iona College Lindum in the play-off for third place.

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Jubilant St Patrick’s College Mackay players celebrate their historic Confraternity Shield Girls Rugby League championship win over The Cathedral College Rockhampton in Townsville

Outstanding St Patrick’s Mackay half-back and skipper Paige Mooney accepts the QISSRL Confraternity Shield Girls Championship trophy after steering her team to an 8-4 Grand Final victory over The Cathedral College Rockhampton in Townsville. Mooney was named Player of the Final and gained selection in the QISSRL Merit All Stars Team with second rower Ebony Temple and fullback Ava Wheeler

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Australia’s newest and largest racing yacht, as well as the smallest and oldest, have entered the 2024 GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race.

The GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race begins to intensify with the official entry of Wild Thing 100 – one that is said to be the newest 100-foot super maxi to be launched in the past decade.

Grant Wharington, winner of the 2003 Rolex Sydney Hobart bought the boat previously
known as Beau Geste with co-owner Adrian Seiffert, renaming the Botin 80 design to Stefan
Racing before its extension and relaunch as Wild Thing 100 in 2023.

“Being residents of the Gold Coast, we’re excited for the thrilling prospect of a spinnaker start with an offshore breeze, with our iconic skyline and beaches making for a fantastic spectator event,” said Mr Wharington.

In stark contrast to the ultra-modern Wild Thing 100, the stellar race line-up now also features Maritimo Katwinchar, the classic 32-foot timber former ketch built in 1904 in London’s Watney Brewery.  

Competing in the 1951 Sydney to Hobart, Katwinchar was found dilapidated by the Australian boat builders Maritimo, who lovingly and painstakingly restored her to its former glory with no expense spared, attracting quite the crowd when it competed in the 2019 Rolex Sydney Hobart.

“We look forward to being part of the inaugural race, with the attraction and challenge of
racing through the various islands up the Queensland coast presenting a fantastic experience not to be missed.  

“And the sports-mad town of Mackay really knows how to put on a party!” said Mr Michael Spies, who will be racing Katwinchar double-handed with Peter Vaiciurgis, the multiple Australian dinghy racing champion in the GCCM Gold Coast Mackay race.

With just 35 days till the start date on August 1, the GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race will be boosting the racing pedigree of yachts arriving on the Gold Coast, following the Noakes Sydney Gold Coast race in late July.

Southport Yacht Club Vice Commodore of Sail Glenn Burrell said the timing of the Gold Coast Mackay race will create a real buzz of excitement both at the start and finish line, with Race Village preparations well underway.  
 
The event will begin at 10am on August 1 with an epic offshore start line straight off the beach in front of Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise. The Race Village at Mackay Marina opens Saturday, August 3 through to Tuesday, August 6.

Entries are open until July 17 via the official race website: www.goldcoastmackay.com

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New and classic yachts stir excitement in the 2024 GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Race, featuring Australia’s newest 100-foot super maxi and a restored 1904 timber ketch. Images supplied

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Mackay is set to pulse with the beats of national and local music acts this July as The Push and Queensland Music Festival (QMF) team up to deliver an electrifying all-ages event!

Spearheaded by The Push, a leading youth music organisation and part of QMF's QLD Music Trails program, this special event promises an unforgettable experience for music lovers of all ages.

Scheduled for Saturday, July 6th at The Arcadia Bar, the event is a highlight of The Reef Trail, a segment of QMF's QLD Music Trails. The line-up features headline performances by acclaimed acts Great Gable and Kitschen Boy, alongside local talents Giant Palms and Tiffany Grace.

For Mackay's music scene, this gathering not only showcases exceptional musicians but also provides a platform for emerging local artists to shine.

15-year-old Eliza said “This exposure has given me so much more knowledge and boosted my love for music and encouraged my future even more.”

The collaboration offers young people from the Mackay region a unique opportunity to participate in The Push's All-Ages Events Team program. Over the past two months, eight enthusiastic participants have gained hands-on experience in event management and promotion, contributing to every aspect of the show's organisation, from selecting support acts through a local band competition to crafting promotional materials.

CEO of The Push, Kate Duncan said, “We’re stoked to be working with Queensland Music Festival and Mackay Regional Council to bring this All-Ages Events Team program and all-ages live music opportunity to Mackay as part of the Reef Trail.

“Not only does the tour provide important opportunities for young audiences to experience live music that is safe and affordable, but it gives teams of local young people the chance to develop skills, confidence and networks.”

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to celebrate music, community and talent in the
heart of Mackay.

Tickets for the event are available for $20 (plus booking fees), with an added incentive of free arcade game tokens for the first 100 attendees. It promises to be a fully supervised, drug, alcohol, smoke, and vape-free event, ensuring a safe environment for all attendees.

For more information and ticket purchases, visit: thepush.au/mackay.

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Mackay gears up for an electrifying all-ages event with The Push and Queensland Music Festival, showcasing national and local talents at The Arcadia Bar on July 6th. Image supplied

‍

Mackay rugby league sensation Jaxon Purdue has reached another milestone in his fledgling NRL career with the North Queensland Cowboys.

The 18-year-old rookie utility back celebrated his third appearance in the top grade by helping the depleted Cowboys upset premiers Penrith 16-6 last Sunday at Penrith Stadium.

It was a victory to savour for the Queensland Under 19s representative – just weeks after shining on debut in the club’s miraculous win over the Sydney Roosters.
Purdue won’t forget the courageous win over the Panthers in a hurry.

Playing at centre, the former St Patrick’s College Mackay student spent ten minutes in the sin bin before the half time break – then nabbed his first NRL try after a dashing run in the 61st minute to swing the match in the Cowboys favour.

Cheering Jaxon on back home in Mackay were his Cutters’ first-grade teammates, fresh from a heart-breaking 20-12 loss to premiership pacesetters Northern Pride in Hostplus Cup action at Barlow Park in Cairns.

The Cutters led 12-10 inside the final twenty minutes following back-to-back tries after the interval by five eighth Riley Dean and prop Ross Bella that were converted by half back Kauri Aupouri-Puketapu.

But elusive winger Robert Derby stole the show with a spectacular try double in the space of six minutes to seal Northern Pride’s tenth win of the season and keep the club entrenched on the top of the ladder on 24 points with Norths Devils.

Derby capped a huge game with a hat-trick of tries after opening the scoring in the eighth minute before fullback Lachlan West crossed shortly after with half Thomas Duffy adding the extras for a 10-nil lead.

Mackay remains in the finals mix in tenth spot on 16 points and is bent on returning to the winner's list when they tackle the Tweed Seagulls this Saturday at Piggabeen Sports Complex at Tweed Heads from 5pm.

‍

Mackay Cutters action from the 20-12 loss to Northern Pride in Hostplus Cup at Barlow Park in Cairns. Photo credit: Mackay Cutters

‍

Fifteen-year-old Mackay Cyclones multiclass athlete Izabella Wills has wrapped up an impressive campaign at the Olympic para trials, showcasing her talent and determination on a national stage.
Izabella achieved 11th place overall in the 100m freestyle and 10th in the 100m backstroke, competing against some of the nation’s top athletes. Remarkably, she secured a spot in the B Final, swimming at 9:55 pm when most teenagers her age are already in bed. Her dedication paid off as she achieved personal bests in every event.
Izabella is riding high on this wave of success, along with her coach, Leigh-Anne Pokarier. The duo were selected to attend the Hancock Prospecting Para Futures Development Camp on the Sunshine Coast last weekend. Leigh-Anne joined the coaching team, while Izabella has been recognised as a future para athlete by Swimming Queensland, opening new opportunities thanks to her hard work and stellar performances over the past two years.
The dream of becoming a Paralympian is gaining momentum for Izabella, who continues to strive toward her goal, making her one to watch in the Mackay Cyclones camp.
The achievements don't stop there for the Mackay Cyclones Swim Club. An impressive 27 athletes have received Junior Excellence recognition, while six higher-level athletes have earned spots in the Silver, Bronze, and Junior Development squads based on their performances last season with Swimming Queensland.
Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier acknowledges the hard work and dedication required to achieve such success.
"It's a hard slog for everyone, and the results are well-earned and deserved," she said.
"I couldn't ask for a better team who come together and get it done."
Next on the agenda, two Cyclone members will compete at School Nationals on the Gold Coast at the end of July: Izabella Wills representing the senior school and Isabelle Daniel representing the junior school. Following that, the team will gear up for the State Short Course Championships in August.

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Izabella Wills (centre) with coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier (right) at the 2024 Australian Swimming Trials

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Nine tables of mentors, beginners and novices played on Sunday in a very close competition. The beginners and novices are very appreciative of the time and effort given to them by the mentors to allow them to play with experienced players and improve their bridge game. Winners this month were N/S Joy Block and David Ting, E/W Diane Stokes and Griffin Bancroft.

Weekly Results
Monday 24 June 2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
Faye Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood

3rd
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
4th
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

5th
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford
6th
Diane Stokes / Eddie Kleise

Tuesday Evening 25 June 2024 5 Table One Winner
1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Janet Hansen
3rd
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
4th
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
Wednesday 26 June 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
1st
Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor

2nd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Monica Darley / Joy Brunette

3rd
Joy Block / Diane Stokes
3rd
Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild

4th
Carmel Brown / Patrick Rasmussen
4th
Robert Carless / Joy Robinson

Thursday Evening 27 June 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

3rd
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

Friday 28 June 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
1st
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole
2nd
Joy Block / Griffin Bancroft

3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
3rd
Diane Stokes / Marie McGuire

4th
Susan Ross / Debbie Ludkin
4th
Victor Mason / Josie Crowley

Saturday 29 June 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd
Julie O’Neill / Toni Large
2nd
Monica Darley / Robert Carless

3rd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Mick King

4th
Errol Morris / Jan Harris
4th
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

Sunday 30 June 2024 – Novice, Beginners and Mentors 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Joy Block / David Ting
1st
Diane Stokes / Griffin Bancroft
2nd
Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Christopher Meyers
3rd
Annette Howe / Vicki Howard
3rd
Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin
4th
Adrian Westcott / Ed Boets
4th
Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell

Contributed By Joy Block

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Left to right: David Ting and Joy Block with Griffin Bancroft and Diane Stokes. Image supplied

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More than forty runners and supporters enjoyed the beautiful Cape Hillsborough conditions by tackling the Mackay Road Runners annual Club Championship 5km and 9km.   

Runners enjoyed the early race start overlooking the glorious eastern coastal sunrise and well-populated beach just as much as the skippies. Several local and interstate casual day runners joined up with the Club’s existing members, revelling in a great Sunday morning as they challenged the Hidden Valley course which included scenic beach vistas, tricky rainforest trails and slippery unsealed roads.   
 
Paul Mackenzie continued his sensational form by taking major club championship points, placing first overall in the 9km club championship ahead of Mick Vivian. 

John Searston, who was a member of Mackay Road Running for over 25 years in the past, displayed great stamina in third place, sprinting to cross the finish line just mere seconds behind Mick. John Rae accrued the final open club championship points ahead of Alex Couldrey, Tim Dalton, Jim Ogilvie and Robin Stinson.   

First female Jose Short was 9th overall, scoring maximum club championship open points ahead of Teresa Hackney and Lisa Burns.  Excellent running was seen by Glynis Forse and Kaylene Gardner who were just outside the podium finishers.
 
John Couldrey made light work of the 5km event, as did Andrew Short and Natasha Joynson, where it could be assumed that John’s amazing turn of speed at the finish line was due to the fragrant BBQ wafting through the air.  
 
There will be no Mackay Road Runners event this Sunday, however, there is an amazing selection of trail running courses this weekend set by ActiV8 Adventures that the Club highly recommends.   

The 5km, 11km, and 18km options are open to everyone, visit ActiV8 Adventures online to register your interest for a great morning of trail running commencing from 8am at Eungella. 
 
The next Club Championship race on the calendar will be hosted by Mackay Road Runners on Sunday 14th July, commencing from 7am at Netherdale.

The Signature event M-Test Eungella King and Queen of the Mountain, and Podiatry Mackay/Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy Junior King and Queen of the Mountain is a very successful event shared with the Mackay Cycling Club for their Torque Tyres and Trailer Spares King and Queen of the Mountain cycle event held in conjunction.  

Watch this space for further updates or visit mackayroadrunners.com online for more info.

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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Perfect running conditions at the start of the Cape Hillsborough Club Championship’s beautiful beach for the three front runners (left to right) – John Searston, Paul MacKenzie and Alex Couldrey
Geeta Ariani (#118) leads a contingent of female runners along the beach section of the Cape Hillsborough 9km Club Championship event
Leon Sant, Shruti Dhl, Geeta Ariani, Kaylene Gardner enjoy the Mackay Road Runners Cape Hillsborough Club Championship event
Greg Dawes, Martin Lambert and Jim Ogilvie take a well earning break after the 9km Cape Hillsborough Club Championship race
Couse Cyclist Tim Magoffin struggles to keep pace with the Club’s legendary course marker, trailer keeper volunteer Andrew Short. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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The North Mackay Sinkers happily accepted the opportunity to enjoy an ocean swim on Mackay’s show holiday, Thursday June 20.  

The Mackay Surf Life Saving Club hosted its inaugural Winter Solstice swim and invited the general public to participate in the event to support fundraising for the Surf Club.

Twelve Sinkers nominated across the 1, 3 and 5k events on offer to strongly represent the club in this fantastic event that was well supported by over 50 swimmers on the day.

The day dawned clear and cool but the registration was quick and we were provided a briefing of the course, water safety and conditions. Before long the 5k swimmers entered the water for the first of five laps of the 1km course, into 21-degree water we set off into what proved invigorating to all swimmers, some opting for wet suits.  

Interestingly the first 50m from shore was around 18 degrees picking up the cooler evening conditions in shallow water.

In the 5km event, the Sinkers were led home by Pierre Craven who placed 4th overall in 1h 34 min, followed by Nigel Dalton (6th + 3 min) Dan Stampa (11th + 15 min) and Christine Webb (12th, + 19 min)

In the 3km event, the Sinkers were led in by Megan Taylor who placed 4th overall in 56.24 minutes followed by Natasha Mallise (6th + 4 min) Melissa Lysaught (8th + 6 min) Rachel Mundy (9th + 7 min) and Rachel Bidgood (13th + 13 min).

In the 1km event Lesley Thorpe placed 9th overall in 23.25 minutes followed by Sue Willet (15th + 4 min) and Helen Burgess 17th + 7 min).
 
By Dan Stampa

Sinkers Sessions:
Mondays: 5:15pm for 5:30-6:30pm (Millie Monday - coached)
Wednesdays: 5:15pm- for 5:30-6:30pm (Whiteboard Wednesday, led from the pool)
Saturday: 08:00-09:00am (Social Saturday, led from the pool followed by coffee and a treat!)

For further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers or phone 0413 805 156

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Sinkers made a splash at Mackay Surf Life Saving Club’s wintersolstice swim on June 20. Images supplied

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On Saturday, 18th of May, 15 dedicated athletes from Mackay, all representing Tri-ActiV8, achieved a monumental feat at the Great Wall Marathon in China.

Nikki Giles, Tri-ActiV8 Director, Head Coach and participant said, "We have a strong team spirit, camaraderie, and sense of adventure amongst us. It started as an idea and then suddenly a lot more of our tribe wanted to be a part of the journey."

The team tackled various distances: two participants competed in the 8.5km Fun Run, one in the 21km race, and 12 took on the full 42km marathon.

Their hard work and dedication paid off with impressive results as Jose Short secured 1st place in her female age group. Sam Sticklan achieved 4th place in her age group and 9th overall female. Emily Wicks finished 6th in her age group and Angus Wicks earned 2nd place in his age group.

Nikki said that preparation for the marathon's unique challenges was crucial.

"Getting our athletes ready was a really important component to achieving success in what is hailed as one of the most difficult marathons in the world.

"The secret is in the preparation and understanding what your body needs to compete in and complete such a gruelling event.

“Getting your fuelling right during the race is key to ensuring your body can go the distance and completing the 5,164 stairs," Nikki emphasised.  

The Tribe shared so many memorable moments from the marathon.

"Towards the end of the marathon, when we were completing the second run along the Wall in the reverse direction, there were a lot of shared moments of pain, cramping, sharing gels, and buying soft drinks to push the body over the final 2,582 stairs and 562m of elevation.

“At the finish line, we all reunited one by one. So many smiles, stories, and hugs."

Nikki underlined that Training in Mackay played a crucial role in their preparation.

"Blacks Beach stairs, internal fire escape stairs in high-rise buildings, efforts on local hills like High Street and Mt Bassatt, and the Conway Circuit were places where our athletes conditioned their legs and bodies."

The dedication and spirit of the Tri-ActiV8 tribe continue to inspire, with the latest conquest of the Great Wall Marathon serving as a testament to the Tribe’s enduring passion and mateship. The remarkable achievements of Mackay's athletes have set the bar high, showcasing exceptional talent and determination on an international stage.

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Tri-ActiV8 Tribe

Selena Corness, Emily Wicks, Nikki Giles

Sandra Macklin

Rod Wood. Photos supplied

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Mackay Cutters rugby league Head Coach Michael Comerford has a sharp eye for talent.

When the Cutters and North Queensland Cowboys renewed their Hostplus Cup partnership for the 2024 season the respected mentor had no hesitation in drafting 18-year-old young guns Jaxon Purdue and Xavier Kerrisk into his top-grade squad.

The astute Comerford was well aware of the duo’s natural ability and skill set having coached the former Queensland Schoolboys representatives during his teaching days at St Patrick’s College Mackay.

Both players are two of the Cowboys’ brightest prospects with first-grade rookie Purdue shining on his NRL debut in a courageous win over the Roosters and for the Under 19 Maroons in last week’s 14-10 Origin loss to NSW at Leichhardt Oval.

Purdue has scored five tries in six appearances for the Cutters this season before earning a promotion to the NRL ranks.

Comerford has now introduced rising hooker Kerrisk into his Hostplus Cup squad as an interchange player after the number nine’s outstanding form for the Cutters in the Under 19s Mal Meninga Cup.

Central Queensland Capras produced a rousing second-half display to sink the Cutters 30-18 last Saturday in their Rivalry Round clash at Rugby Park Rockhampton.

Trailing 8-6 at the break the Capras, led by former Broncos NRL star Anthony Milford, stunned their rivals with a four-try blitz that turned the match.

Journeyman winger Edrick Lee – who has had NRL stints with Canberra, Cronulla, Newcastle and the Dolphins – dashed over to score straight after the interval before interchange prop Zev John and centre Cooper Marshall crossed for tries to extend the seventh-placed Capras lead to 24-8.

Mackay lock and skipper Sean Mullany responded with a vital try after 62 minutes that was converted by half-back Riley Dean before interchange prop Brandon Russell crashed over for a late try to give the Cutters a glimmer of hope.

The experienced Milford – riddled with hamstring concerns during his time at the Redcliffe Dolphins – broke the Cutters hearts when he posted the Capras fifth try seconds later to seal a crucial victory for the home side.

Mackay turned in a solid first half showing with winger Dario Takitaki scooting over for the opening try of the match after eleven minutes and playmaker Dean adding the extras.

The Cutters number seven gave his side an 8-0 lead when he potted a 36th-minute penalty goal before flying winger Bob Tenza grabbed a four-pointer for Central Queensland on the stroke of halftime.

Mackay faces another tough task this Saturday when they tackle premiership pacesetters Northern Pride at Barlow Park Cairns from 3pm.

‍

Over forty runners and supporters enjoyed the annual historical Farmer’s Long Gallop from Evans Avenue on a very breezy but sunny day last Sunday on June 23.  The forty-eight-year-old event is a favourite among members for its technical difficulty in the 17km and fast out-and-back racing in the 5km. 

Junior champion runner, Luke Leven unfortunately missed the 17km event due to double booking himself, however, his sister, Lily showed her speedy style in the 5km coming in 2nd behind previous Junior Club Champion, Ashlee Scott.  
 

The fastest in the Farmers 17km was Mick Vivian who also came second across the line on handicap behind big improver, Clinton Mackie. Clinton as well as Mick backed up well after their 30km Club Championship race the previous weekend, as did Shane Donnollen, Teresa Hackney, Carmel Mahon, Tahnie Malagueno and Brenda Windsor.  Impressive running was seen from the girls in the 17km with the fastest lady being Alana Knezevic ahead of Mel Esau, Teresa Hackney, Tahnie Malagueno, Rhian Massey, Glynis Forse, Carmel, Brenda and Judy Zahn. 

Tahnie scored first female via the handicap start race style with Teresa and Mel snatching silver and bronze respectively.  Levi Wallace had a sensational first event with the Mackay Road Runners in the 17km with a view for bigger, better and faster things to come.  Tim Caddy made a welcome return to racing, clocking an impressive comeback time alongside Oliver Rule, Brad Fraser, Mick Scholer, Craig Robinson, Robin Stinson, Werner VanderLinde and David Isbister. 
 
Steve Tregear had a golden handicap win over Andrew Wallace and Michael Feenaghty as the top three charged over the 5km finish line ahead of first handicapped female Jo Hughes. Jo nudged out fastest 5km female Ashlee Scott based on the handicap start followed by Lily Leven, Natasha Joynson, Neah Carciano and Jan Smith.  Jared Mackie’s sizzling 5km race time was the fastest however, relegated him to 8th across male and female handicap starters. Excellent 5km efforts also came from Darrin Pullen, Andrew Short and Len Haworth.
 
This Sunday’s Cape Hillsborough Reef Forest 5km/9km will commence at the Cape Hillsborough parklands playground from 7am.

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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Talented and legendary Mackay Road Runners, Judy Zahn and Ashlee Scott.
Rhian Massey & Glynis Forse ready to run!
Farmer’s Gallop namesake and dearly departed Fred Farmer (2nd right) is picture perfect alongside (left to right), Club President Brendan Bishop, Andrew Short, Len Haworth and Vice-President Mick Scholer.
Fastest human at the Farmer’s Gallop, Mick Vivian. Images supplied

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Delma and George went all the way to 21 on Tuesday morning, George wearing her down -12, 9, 19, 8.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures June 18, 2024:

Division 1:

Hawks (George Camilleri, Andrea Nicholson, John McGee) d Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall) 8-4. George d Delma -12, 9, 19, 8.

Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Marie Taylor) d Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) 8-4. Janice d Branko 10, -3, 8, 11.

Ibis (Tony Bowman, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) d Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) 8-4. Noreen d Kevin 3, -11, -7, 6, 8.

Division 2:

Cockatoos (Kim Challender, Veronica Shepherd) d Pelicans (Gerry Synnott, Robyn Bushell, Cheryl Pearson) 9-3. Veronica d Nadine 7, 12, 9.

Doves (Louise Gould, Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba) d Magpies (Helen Ware, John Hamelink, Kim Daffy) 7-5. Iris d Kim 4, -5, -9, 5, 4.

Division 3:

Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey, Nadine Stream) d Prawn (Darryl Ross, Trish Zamparuti) 9-2. Nadine d Darryl 4, 3, -8, -4, 8.

Crab (Pam Keune, Myles Dutton, Josie Davis) drew Squid (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) 6-all. Sharon d Josie -8, 9, -7, 5, 9.

Full results and individual standings are available at https://www.revolutionise.com.au/mackaytta/fixtures-results/

Delma Knight
George Camilleri. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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Mackay product and GC SUNS AFLW defender Wallis Randell is among four players to have inked contract extensions on the Gold Coast.

Foundation player Jamie Stanton, Season Eight debutant Darcie Davies and 2023 draftee Sienna McMullen have all joined Randell in signing extensions through until the end of the 2025 AFLW season.

The quartet of Queenslanders are the latest players to commit to the club beyond 2024, joining a growing list of names including Claudia Whitfort, Lucy Single, Lauren Bella, Katie Lynch and Charlotte Wilson.

Randell is one of three players from the Mackay region on the SUNS list and has played 26 games across four seasons with the club.

Stanton made history in 2023, becoming the first player to reach 50 AFLW games whilst playing for the SUNS, fittingly kicking a career-high six goals in the milestone match on her to winning a  first SUNS Leading Goalkicker award.

Davies, a Southport Sharks junior, debuted in the opening game of 2023 and earned a Rising Star nomination in the final round of last season. McMullen was one of two Burleigh Bombers juniors to have been selected by the SUNS in the 2023 AFLW Draft and, alongside Davies, is a graduate of both the AFL and SUNS Academies.

“It’s fantastic to see four Queenslanders, including three players who have come through our Academy, committing to our club,” GC SUNS Head of Women’s Football Fiona Sessarago said.

“Having been a member of our club for many years, both in the Academy and AFLW squads, Wallis has played an integral role in the positive culture we have created here at the SUNS. At just 22 years old as well, we’re looking forward to seeing her continue growing this season and beyond.
 
“Jamie is one of two remaining foundation players at the club and has been a highly-valued member of our squad throughout five seasons. She provides a wealth of experience, both on and off the field, which is crucial as we continue to develop and strive to improve in the coming years.

“As two of our group’s youngest, Darcie and Sienna are role models for the next generation of young Queensland footballers with so much of their young careers ahead of them which we’re excited to be part of.”

Gold Coast returns to Mackay to face Carlton at Great Barrier Reef Arena on Sunday, September 8 in an AFLW Round 2 match. The SUNS are undefeated in its last two matches in Mackay with the 2024 season being the fourth consecutive in which the club has hosted a match at Great Barrier Reef Arena.

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North Mackay Ladies held their finals of both the Open Club Pairs and the "B" Grade Pairs during June. In both games the lead changed throughout the games and Nug Pratt and Dot Wise were able to come home triumphant in the Open Pairs over Jean Zamparutti and Marie Duck who provided stiff opposition. In the "B" Pairs it was Hilary Jones -Rowan and Sue Hazledine who finished the game ahead of Helen Goldston and Sue Beale.

Contributed By Helen Fleming 

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Club Open Pairs Finalists Left to right runners up Marie Duck, Jean Zamparutti with winners Nug Pratt, Dot Wise

Left to right runners up Sue Beale, Helen Goldston with winners Hilary Jones-Rowan, Sue Hazledine. Photos supplied

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The 2024 Mackay Bridge Club Championship Pairs were played over 3 Saturdays, (8th, 15th and 23rd June 2024) with seventeen pairs competing for the prize. This year the Club Championship pair is Eric Goodchild and David Ting.

Weekly Results
Monday 17 June 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
1st
Pamela Finger / Ming Ting

2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait

3rd
Janelle Conroy / Christine Fitzpatrick
3rd
Kitty Ranson / Bob Ranson

Tuesday Evening 18 June 2024 6 Table One Winner
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Janet Hansen
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
3rd
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
4th
Sanra Morris / Diane Morgan
Wednesday 19 June 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
David Ting / Ming Ting
2nd
Kitty Ranson / Bob Ranson

3rd
Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

4th
Frances Brown / Jewel Schmidt
4th
Diane Stokes / Joy Block

Thursday Evening 20 June 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
1st
Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

3rd
Errol Morris / Simon Barnes
3rd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix & Susan Ross / Jan Harris

Friday 11 June 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

2nd
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
2nd
Diane Cox / Christine Nice

3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild

4th
Debra Goodchild / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th
Janelle Conroy / Simon Barnes

Saturday 22 June 2024 – Mackay Club Pairs Championship Week 3 of 3 - 11 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

3rd
Jan Harris / Mick King
3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

4th
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
4th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

5th
Karen Cadwell / Lynne O’Neill
5th
Marilin Robins / Christine Nice

5th
Chris Meyers / Geoff Taylor
6th
Joy Robertson / Ken Seaniger

Final Results of the 2024 Mackay Club Pairs Championship after three weeks.
1st
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
3rd
Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen
4th
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

Contributed By Joy Block

David Ting and Eric Goodchild 2024 Mackay Championship Pairs. Image supplied

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Mackay local Stefan Tomerini has been selected to play for Australia in the Indoor Cricket Masters World Series in Colombo, Sri Lanka this year from September 27th to October 5th.

The Australian team was selected based on performances at the inaugural Australian Masters Over 55 Championship held recently at Joondalup Perth, Western Australia.

Tomerini represented the North Queensland Vikings 55 Men that only dropped one match in the lead-up to the finals, however narrowly missed out on taking out the series in a closely fought battle with Victoria.

“It’s an honour and a privilege to be selected for Australia in a sport that I enjoy and have played since I was a teenager,” Tomerini said.

“It might be the Masters but it’s very competitive and games are hotly contested.”

Tomerini represented Australia in the last Masters World Series in Capetown (October 2019) playing 8 Tests for Australia. He was also a member of the winning side that defeated New Zealand in the final to win the World Series.

Tomerini first started playing Indoor Cricket in the late 80s in Mackay and has represented Queensland 33 times in his career and North Queensland numerous times at Masters level.

He played outdoor cricket as a teenager, representing Mackay in U14 and U15 squads, later transitioning to indoor cricket in his 20s due to work commitments. Being a masters player does come with challenges. He developed plantar fasciitis in 2016, which led to severe foot pain. He overcame this with orthotics and extensive physiotherapy.

Reflecting on his role as a player, Tomerini highlighted the importance of being an all-rounder in indoor cricket, explaining you need to be adaptable..

"You have to be able to do all three parts of the game: batting, bowling, and fielding.
“Depending on what's needed at that time in a game, you try to lift in that area," he said.

When asked about what he enjoys most about indoor cricket, Tomerini shared, "There's a lot of aspects I really enjoy - the social interaction, meeting new people, and the team environment."

Tomerini is joined in the Australian team with fellow players from North Queensland and also from Victoria, New South Wales, the ACT and Western Australia.

“We are looking forward to being super competitive at the World Series and of course aiming for Australia to come away with a win.”

His advice for newcomers?

"Have fun, train hard, always be positive, and focus on what you can control."

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Stefan Tomerini playing for the North Queensland Vikings at the Australian Masters Over 55 Championships in Perth. Photos supplied

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Gold Coast SUNS AFLW games record holder Lauren Bella is the latest to commit her future to the club, inking a long-term contract extension.

The SUNS Academy product and one of two remaining foundation players on the club’s AFLW list will remain in the red, gold and blue until at least the end of the 2027 AFLW season.

Her extension coincides with this morning’s confirmation that the SUNS will be returning to Mackay for a fourth consecutive AFLW season, hosting Carlton at Great Barrier Reef Arena on Sunday, September 8 (1.05pm first bounce).

The match will be the fifth AFLW fixture the SUNS have hosted in Mackay since 2020.

“As one of our foundation AFLW players, who came through our Academy program and our pathways in Mackay, it’s fantastic for to see Lauren extend her contract until 2027,” GC SUNS Head of Women’s Football Sessarago said.

“We’ve seen Lauren develop as not only one of the AFLW’s finest players but a really important member of our playing group off the field as well. At just 23 years old, she’s experienced beyond her years and we’re excited to see her continue to grow here at the SUNS.

“As one of three players on our list from the Mackay region, I’m sure Lauren is as thrilled as we are to be returning to Mackay for a fourth consecutive season to play Carlton in September.”

Bella is yet to miss a single game in the SUNS’ AFLW history and is on the verge of becoming the first female player to play 50 games for the club. She currently sits on 47 SUNS matches across five seasons, in addition to three games for the Brisbane Lions.

The deal will take her tenure on the Gold Coast to nine seasons by its conclusion.

The 23-year-old is one of three players on the SUNS list hailing from the Mackay region, alongside Alana Gee and Wallis Randell, having played her junior football for the Sarina Demons.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson congratulated Bella and is thrilled to welcome the SUNS back to the region in September.

“Lauren is a home-grown hero and we couldn’t be more proud of her and her achievements,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Lauren always speaks warmly of her beginnings here as a Sarina Demons junior, and she is proof of our region’s reputation as a breeding ground for world-class athletes.

“We are pleased to welcome the SUNS back to Mackay in 2024 and, as a SUNS AFLW feeder region, cheer for them as our home team.”

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Gold Coast SUNS AFLW games record holder Lauren Bella has signed with the club until 2027. Photos supplied Gold Coast SUNS

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In a regional first, a local man of Mackay, Liam Paro, etched his name into Australian sporting history by fulfilling his childhood dream of becoming a world champion in boxing on June 16.

Raised in Mackay, Liam was known for his boundless energy and passion for boxing from an early age after he confidently declared his ambitions to his mother while perched on his kitchen bench one day at just thirteen years old.

Liam's mother, Sharon Cortez, vividly recalls the day when her teenage son proclaimed this future greatness and says, “It was a day I will never forget.”

Recently, his dream became a reality in a momentous victory in Puerto Rico, where he triumphed over Subriel Matias to claim the IBF super lightweight title after a gruelling twelve-round battle.

After twelve rounds of action against ‘the boogeyman’ of the division, Mackay’s home town hero walked away with a dominant win to be crowned Mackay’s first ever boxing world champion.

Throughout his formative years, Liam's athletic skills continued to shine earning him recognition among peers and community members alike for his versatility and commitment to striving for the best.

His latest accomplishment not only celebrates his personal success but also pin points Mackay on the international boxing stage in an event that was yet to be seen in the region's history.

As Mackay prepares to welcome home its first-ever boxing world champion, there has been an outpour of overwhelming support from community members to celebrate Liam Paro's remarkable achievement with locals rallying behind him for a grand homecoming parade. This gesture aims to honour not only his athletic prowess, but also the values of grit and tenacity that Liam embodies.

Beyond boxing, Liam's journey demonstrates the values of perseverance and fortitude, inspiring both current and aspiring local athletes to pursue their dreams with passion and commitment. Liam's ascent from a young boy with a dream to a global boxing icon serves as a powerful inspiration to current and future generations. His story is a testament to the belief that with persistence and commitment, any goal can be achieved.

Mackay stands united in pride and celebration, eagerly awaiting Liam's return to applaud his legacy.

“I made a promise to my friend that passed away and I’m a man of my word… and to all the people that said I couldn’t do it - It’s Paro time,” Liam declared.

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Local boxer, Liam Paro, took home the title of Mackay’s first ever boxing world champion. Photo credit: Liam “The Prodigy” Paro (Facebook)

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Mackay Cutters rugby league team have zoomed into the top eight after toppling cellar-dwellers Ipswich Jets 30-16 in Hostplus Cup action last weekend at BB Print Stadium.

There was no stopping the home side who laid the foundations for a sixth victory this season through their rugged forward pack and slick back division.

Early tries by skipper and lock Sean Mullany and young winger Brent Anderson helped the Cutters establish a 10-0 lead after nine minutes.

Ipswich centre Mathew Lyons responded with the visitor’s opening try shortly after that was converted by winger Brandon Roberts.

The elusive Anderson bagged a second try before fellow winger Dario Takitaki crossed to give Mackay a handy 20-6 lead at the interval.

Rookie 18-year-old hooker Xavier Kerrisk extended the Cutters' lead when he darted over to score shortly after the break.

The elusive Roberts kept the Jets in the hunt when he scooted over for the visitor’s second try before workhorse Mullany was rewarded with a second four-pointer with seven minutes left on the clock.

Ipswich second rower Arama Hau grabbed a consolation try in the dying moments - but to no avail.

The win lifted Mackay into eighth spot on the ladder on sixteen points behind competition pacesetters Norths Devils (22) and Northern Pride (22), Wynnum Manly Seagulls (21), Burleigh Bears and Redcliffe Dolphins (18), Sunshine Coast Falcons and Central Queensland Capras (16).

Mackay coach Michael Comerford has unearthed a future star in number nine Kerrisk, a former Queensland Schoolboys representative who honed his craft in the Mackay Junior League.

Kerrisk and best mate Jaxon Purdue are outstanding local products that were coached by Comerford just down the road at St Patrick’s College.

The pair were signed by the North Queensland Cowboys after dominant performances in the Aaron Payne Cup competition and have bright futures in front of them.

Mackay will travel to Rugby Park in Rockhampton this Saturday for a tilt with the seventh-placed Central Queensland Capras at 4pm.

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Photo credit: Mackay Cutters

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Mackay's very own Meg Harris is gearing up for the Olympic trials, backed by a recent sponsorship from Auswide Bank.
Born in Bundaberg, this 22-year-old swimming sensation has captured the hearts of her hometown supporters.
Meg’s journey began on the sands of Eimeo Beach in Mackay, where her passion for surf lifesaving laid the groundwork for her Olympic success. At just 13, she traded coastal life for the pool in Brisbane, determined to chase her Olympic dreams.
Like many athletes, Meg faces the challenge of balancing demanding training with planning for her future beyond competition. As she braces for this year's trials, she acknowledges the daunting task ahead but remains firm in her pursuit of her dream of representing Mackay on the world stage.
“For many swimmers, this year will be their last. After Tokyo, so many people decided to hold out for one more Olympics, so those athletes will be giving it their all before they retire,” said Meg.
Considering this pressure, Meg says she is excited to potentially open a doorway to post-Olympic career prospects.
Auswide Bank's partnership, part of the project32 Olympic sponsorship program, offers financial support and career guidance as Harris embarks on her Olympic journey and prepares for life after chasing her sporting dreams.
“The partnership with Auswide Bank alleviates the pressure of thinking about life after swimming so I can put all my focus into training and making the Olympic team in the short term, with the comfort of knowing there is something for me when I finish competing,” she said.
Project32 focuses on supporting Australian athletes as they chase their Olympic dreams, while setting them up for future employment opportunities. The program goes beyond sponsorship funding by focusing on skills development and real-life experience across a variety of workplaces and industries.
In addition to matching athletes with businesses, project32 provides sportspeople with professional and personal development and mentorship from former Olympic athletes, giving them peace of mind about life after sport, so they can concentrate on reaching peak performance.
Meg claims that this type of support is invaluable to emerging Olympians in their quest for gold.
“So many people retire still only having half a degree or no idea what they want to do because they spend so much time thinking about sport,” she said.
“With Brisbane 2032 on the horizon, there is no better time to invest in the future of Aussie athletes, becoming a great corporate citizen while riding a wave of success.”
For more information about project32™ and how you can be a part of the program, visit https://au.bastionagency.com/think/project32

Meg Harris is a local Mackay Olympian with a passion for swimming and will represent her hometown of Mackay as she strives for a gold medal. Image supplied

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In a ground-breaking event, a grand total of $36,265 has been raised for the Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia and Hospitality Cart at Mackay Base Hospital all thanks to the 2024 Mackay Basketball NBL1 fundraising game and charity singlet auction held on May 31.

The Meteors wore limited edition jerseys representing Mackay’s renowned sugar cane trains and after the intense matchup, the jerseys, infused with the sweat and spirit of the game were auctioned off to eager bidders, with every dollar contributing to Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Through raffles and McDonalds Mackay Meteors annual charity singlet auction, the funds raised on the night reached an all-time high after raising an additional $4,265 since last year’s benchmark of $32,000 in 2023.

In total, over the past decade, Mackay Basketball has raised $127,936.00 for the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

On the 13th of June, Mackay Basketball General Manager and McDonald’s Meteors NBL1 Head Coach Joel Khalu presented a cheque to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) North Australia Community Engagement Executive Samantha Baker, at the Ronald McDonald Family Room situated at Mackay Base Hospital.

“Mackay Basketball is enormously proud to use our platform to fundraise for this valuable cause,” Khalu said.

“Year after year we’ve seen our basketball community support this event by contributing what they can to Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia, who support the Ronald McDonald Family Room and Hospitality Cart at Mackay Base Hospital.

“RMHC helps ensure that sick kids and their families in our region will get the support they need, when needed.”

RMHC North Australia Community Engagement Executive Samantha Baker expressed her gratitude to Mackay Basketball and said “We’re amazed by this record donation; it’s a remarkable effort and we are very grateful.

“We’re appreciative to everybody who attended the game, bought raffle tickets and placed bids on the singlets.

“On behalf of the Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia, we want to say a huge thank you to everybody involved with Mackay Basketball for their magnificent, ongoing support.”

Results:

In a thrilling showdown the Men’s McDonald’s Mackay Meteors dominated the Sunshine Coast Phoenix with a stellar performance by winning 117 - 77. Todd Blanchfield led the charge with a phenomenal 33 points, supported by 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Isaac White showcased his skills with 24 points, 4 assists, and 3 steals, while CJ Maran added 12 points to the scoreboard. Jerron Jamerson and Amarco Doyle contributed 10 points each, securing a decisive victory for the Meteors in NBL1 North action.

Meanwhile, the Women’s McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes also triumphed over the Sunshine Coast Phoenix, fuelled by Chelsea Brook's 24 points and 14 rebounds. Sam Haiby impressed with 22 points, 6 assists, and 6 steals, while Taylor Mole contributed 18 points and 4 rebounds. Nikita Van Wyk added 10 points to complete a memorable night at the Crater. The Meteorettes won 88 – 70.

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Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia has received over $36,000 thanks to the fundraising efforts of Mackay Basketball. Images supplied

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With a focus on empowering young aspiring athletes, Harrup Park is thrilled to announce the official launch of the Mackay Sports Foundation, a new initiative dedicated to supporting the youth of the community.
This helpful new initiative is designed to offer financial aid to young athletes by assisting them in meeting the expenses associated with participating in sports events, with an emphasis on empowering the youth to reach beyond financial boarders. The goal is to encourage upcoming athletes to achieve their full potential and spotlight their talents on regional, national and global fields.
“At Harrup Park, we believe in the power of community and the potential of our youth. The Mackay Sports Foundation is a testament to our dedication to supporting young athletes and helping them achieve their dreams,” said Adrian Young, CEO at Harrup Park.
Harrup Park’s Commitment promises ‘More than just a club, Harrup Park is a hub for nurturing talent and fostering growth within the community.’
Rooted in the principles of supporting local talent, the foundation ensures that assistance is provided by the community, for the benefit of the community.
Two grant rounds are available each year, closing on 1 March and 1 September, with successful athletes receiving $500 to attend national competitions and $700 for international competitions.
Young athletes interested in applying for a grant are encouraged to visit harruppark.com.au/mackay-sports-foundation/ to complete the application form.
‘The Mackay Sports Foundation invites the community & businesses to join us in supporting this initiative. You can contribute to the Mackay Sports Foundation by visiting our website, helping more local talents achieve their goals. Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of young athletes and contribute to the vibrant sporting culture of our region.’

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Mackay Sports Foundation has launched a new initiative aimed at helping the youth reach their full potential in their sporting paths without the extra financial burden. Image supplied

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QCCS Mackay Cutters players Jaxon Purdue, Jamal Shibasaki, and Mutua Brown were set to make their debuts in the U19 Queensland Origin squad yesterday, June 20th, at Leichhardt Oval. The time of print for this publication was prior to Thursday.

In an exciting development, Queensland Rugby League recently announced the Queensland Under 19 men's squad, featuring standout talents from the Mackay Cutters. Jaxon Purdue and Jamal Shibasaki made their National Rugby League debuts for the North Queensland Cowboys earlier this month, bringing their top-grade experience to the interstate clash against New South Wales.

Purdue and Shibasaki joined an impressive squad that has excelled in the Mal Meninga Cup and Hostplus Cup throughout the 2024 season. Head coach Ben Te’o, assisted by Darius Boyd, Jesse Maclean, and Nathan Small, has prepared the team meticulously, drawing on the expertise of a highly experienced performance staff and mentors, including FOG Matt Gillett. The squad began their camp on the Gold Coast last Friday, setting the stage for their standout performances.

The women's U19 Queensland Origin squad also saw exceptional representation from Mackay, with Ebony Raftstrand-Smith, Lily Peacock, and Paityne Johns selected to play in yesterday's match. These players were part of a formidable team that included eight members from Queensland’s victorious Under 19 team in 2023. Raftstrand-Smith, Peacock, and Johns brought forward the skills and resilience honed through their participation in the BMD Premiership and Harvey Norman Under 19 competitions.

Under the guidance of coach Deanna Turner and assistants Mitch Sargent and Maia Tua-Davidson, the women's squad entered their camp on the Gold Coast last Friday, ensuring they were well-prepared for the fierce competition. Peacock and Jorgensen, who also have NRLW experience, brought additional depth and leadership to the team.

The performances of Purdue, Shibasaki, Raftstrand-Smith, Peacock, and Johns highlight the exceptional talent emerging from Mackay and the crucial role the region plays in developing future rugby league stars.

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Jaxon Purdue was one of the Mackay Cutters players selected in the U19 State of Origin squad. Photo credit: Mackay Cutters

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures June 11, 2024

Division 1:

Blue (Geoff Coran, Steven Whiting, Lee Brake) d Orange (Janice Kent, Geoff Denman, Donna Abbott) 7-4. Geoff C d Geoff D 8, 7, -9, -6, 12.

Brown (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Andrea Nicholson) d Red (George Camilleri, Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker) 8-3. Andrea d George -8, -10, 5, 7, 7.

White (Tony Bowman, Lily Boland, Leo Gilbert) d Whjte (Mark Sleeman, Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown) 8-3. Neil d Leo 9, 13, -7, 17.

Black (Allan Robins, Mick Ruhl, Graham Brake) d Purple (Emma Widdup, Robbie Richards, Duncan Treloar) 7-4. Mick/Allan d Duncan/Emma -3, 9, 9, -5, 6.

Division 2:

Rose (Niro Premachandra, Mark Stam, Adrian Marsh) d Lime (Anaya Reelh, Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-4. Simon d Mark 11, 8, -9, -10, 7.

Teal (Val Austin, Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh) d Tan (Jye Callander, Judy Zahn, Saisha Palod) 6-5. Aarnav d Judy -7, 15, -7, 3, 9.

Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang) d Gold (Steve Mathieson, Ollie Hamelink) 5-4. YiLin/Delma d Ollie/Steve -9, 7, -6, 12, 6.

Cyan (Matt West, Trent Day, Leonie Patroni) d Grey (Kade Wright, David Symonds, Misha Palod) 6-5. Matt d Bulldog -7, -8, 8, 6, 7.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures June 11, 2024:

Division 1:

Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) d Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) 8-4. Donna d Branko 9, 7, -9, 10.

Ibis (Tony Bowman, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) d Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall) 9-3. Noreen d Delma -9, -21, 8, 11, 10.

Hawks (George Camilleri, Rhonda Payne, John McGee) drew Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Marie Taylor). Charlie d Rhonda 8, 6, -7, -5, 4.

Division 2:

Magpies (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Kim Daffy) d Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Robyn Bushell, Ian Dodds) 9-3. John d Robyn -8, 5, 7, -6, 11.

Cockatoos (Kim Challender, Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) d Doves (Louise Gould, Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba) 8-4. Louise d Kim -11, 8, -8, 9, 12.

Division 3:

Squid (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) drew Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey, Nadine Stream) 6-all. Bill d Cheryl 8, -5, 6, -10, 9.

Crab (Pam Keune, Trish Zamparuti) d Prawn (Darryl Ross, Glenda Brookes) 6-4. Pam d Darryl 8, -5, 5, -9, 7.

Full results and individual standings are available at: https://www.revolutionise.com.au/mackaytta/fixtures-results/
Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Aarnav Reelh at the table. Photo supplied

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Cricket fans, get ready for international action here in Mackay. Watch Australia take on our competitive neighbours, New Zealand, in the CommBank T20 International Series as the teams finalise their World Cup preparations.
Tickets for the highly anticipated Australia vs. New Zealand Commbank T20I series are now on sale. This September, the Great Barrier Reef Arena will host two thrilling international cricket matches on the 19th and 22nd, bringing world-class women’s cricket action right to our community.
The Great Barrier Reef Arena is proud to be one of the chosen venues for this prestigious series. Hosting these matches not only provides an incredible opportunity for local fans to witness top-tier cricket but also highlights Mackay as a prime location for international sporting events.
“We are thrilled to bring international cricket to the Great Barrier Reef Arena. This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to experience the excitement of professional cricket right here in Mackay,” said Terry Doolan, Chairman at Harrup Park.
“It’s a significant event that puts Mackay on the map as a destination for world-class sports.
“This event is more than just a series; it’s a celebration of sport and community spirit. Bringing international cricket to Mackay enhances our region’s profile and provides a boost to local businesses and tourism.
“Harrup Park is committed to supporting sports and fostering community engagement. The Great Barrier Reef Arena stands as a testament to our dedication to providing world-class facilities and hosting top-tier sporting events in Mackay.”

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Ticket Information:
Tickets are available now and can be purchased at cricket.com.au/tickets. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of an unforgettable sporting event in Mackay. Secure your seats early to avoid disappointment!

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The cool clear morning provided perfect running conditions for Event #386. The Mackay parkrun event saw a fantastic turnout with 291 participants, including many first-timers and visitors.

Highlights of Saturday's event included celebrating several milestones for Elaine McFarlane, Russell Leeson, and Ashley Miles who achieved their 100th finish milestones. Michael Zivkovic reached his 50th finish milestone. Weslan Hawkins completed his 10th Junior finish milestone and Michael Vella accomplished an impressive 250 finishes.

Underneath a Mackay parkrun Facebook post was a heart-warming comment left from a visiting tourist that said “Thanks Mackay parkrun for such a welcoming, friendly Saturday morning run for us visiting tourists – and we did an overall PB for this year, out of over 20 different locations. Loved the course in the Gardens too.”

The event wouldn't have been possible without the dedicated efforts of volunteers, to whom the team extends their heartfelt thank you to.

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Congratulations to Michael Vella who achieved an impressive milestone with his 250th finish, while Elaine McFarlane, Russell Leeson and Ashley Miles celebrated reaching their 100th parkrun milestones. Photo credit: Mackay parkrun (Facebook)

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Wednesday saw 12 Tables (48 players) arrive for a friendly game of bridge. This is a fantastic turn up mid-week. Friday was the twelfth round of Nation-Wide Pairs and Saturday the bridge heated up for the second round of the Club Pair Championships with 24 pairs competing for red points.

Mackay pair Mary Rose Ramsden and Noel Saunders were placed 24th in the Australian Wide Novice Pairs, with more than 1,200 pairs and 90 clubs participating. This event is a national bridge event run by Australian Bridge Magazine for players with fewer than 100 mps.

Weekly Results
Monday 10 June 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
1st
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

2nd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild

3rd
Karen Cadwell / Anne Lutz
3rd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

Tuesday Evening 11 June 2024 6 Table One Winner
1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Marilin Wilson-Nicoll / Griff Bancroft
4th
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
Wednesday 12 June 2024 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
1st
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Kitty Ranson / Bob Ranson

3rd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford

5th
Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
5th
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait

6th
Joy Robertson / Robert Carless
6th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 13 June 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Susan Ross / Jan Harris
3rd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
4th
Sandra Morri / Errol Morris & Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 14 June 2024 – NWP 12 of 24 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
1st
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Richard Wix / Geoffrey Patterson

3rd
Diane Cox / Christine Nice
3rd
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild

4th
Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix
4th
David Ting / Ming Ting

Saturday 15 June 2024 – Mackay Club Pairs Championship Week 2 of 3 - 12 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Joy Robertson / Ken Seaniger

2nd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

3rd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
3rd
Errol Morris / Richard Wix

4th
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
4th
Jan Harris / Mick King

5th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
5th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

6th
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
6th
Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

‍

Contributed by Joy Block

Mary-Rose Ramsden & Noel Saunders, 24th Nation Wide Novice Pairs. Photo supplied

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Approximately forty runners tackled the 30km, 15km, and 5km distances last Sunday as they sprinted through the scenic Mackay region, from Glenella to West Mackay and then out to the Mackay Harbour and back.

Mackay Road Runners Northview Park 30km Club Championship, 15km and 5km were held in perfect running conditions from the playground carpark at Northview Park, Schapers Road, Glenella. 

Club President, Brendan Bishop was a major contributor for the streamlined success of the event alongside fellow committee members Mick and Bec Scholer, Andrew Short, Julie Whibley, Arthur Dick and Jo Hughes.

Classy performances were seen all-round from the 5km and 15km events starting at 6.15am through to the 30km event commencing at 6am.  Paul MacKenzie led the 30km field with Mick Vivian sitting in second with a multitude of changes for the bronze position throughout the 30km with Shane Donnollan snatching third place from Grant Holmstrom, Kaye Nyenuh, Clinton Mackie, Matt Bampton, Jim Perkins and David Perkins. 

The female 30km saw Teresa Hackney looking very comfortable from the start, taking an early lead and retaining it right through to the finish line ahead of Carmel Mahon, Tahnie Malagueno, Carolyn Mapes, Carole Dawes and Brenda Windsor.

The 5km and 15km competitors were very strong with female runners, Alana Knezevic, Mel Esau, Naomi Ballard, and Emily Dalglish leading the charge early alongside talented male runners, Jared Mackie, Hamish Donnolllan, Cory Gould, Michael Scholer, John Roe, Darrin Pullen, Alan Zamparutti, Andrew Short and Tim Caddy. 

Next Sunday’s popular, yet historical Farmers Long Gallop 6km and 17km run will commence from Agnes Farmers home at 62 Evans Avenue, North Mackay.  Agnes and her late husband Fred have been integral life members of the Mackay Road Runners since its inception nearly 50 years ago.  Fred was the runner in the family; however, Agnes was a wholehearted supporter of the Club and Fred’s illustrious running career. 

Although Agnes may not be a morning person, she has generously hosted this morning run for 48 years.

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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30km Podium finishers (left to right) Shane Donnollan (3rd), Mick Vivian (2nd), Paul Mackenzie (1st), Carmel Mahon (2nd) and Teresa Hackney (1st)
Tahnie Malagueno and Carolyn Mapes kept a united even pace together throughout the 30km course
Northview Park 5km and 15km runners get ready to take their mark, get set and go!
Katrina and Jim with Club President Brendan Bishop after their 15km and 30km respectively events
Brenda Windsor and Carole Dawes support each other from start to finish in the 30km. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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The Mackay Rugby competition is just over halfway and what a season it has been!
My first season didn’t start as planned, popping my shoulder out round one, but it’s given me a different perspective of the sport of rugby.
Being able to coach (and I use that term loosely) the backs, while recovering from my shoulder injury, has given me a new appreciation for the sport as a whole.
The Brothers had a slow start to the season, the boys have really fired in the last few weeks and are coming together!
The Mackay competition is very competitive and it’s awesome to see teams from The Whitsundays, Moranbah and Bowen performing so well with heavy travel schedules.
My beloved Mackay Brothers take on the Whitsundays Raiders this Saturday (the 15th) and Airlie sports park, and you know what, I feel a win for the brothers is coming!
I hope I haven’t put the mocker on us.
Get around local rugby in Mackay/Whitsundays!!
‍

Jake

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Recognising the importance of blood and plasma donations, the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club have made an impactful commitment in support of the Australian Red Cross Lifeblood organisation. 
A while ago, the Sinkers executive committee discovered that several members regularly donated blood or plasma. They decided to reach out and explore how the club could support this valuable community activity, thus, the North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club Life Blood Team was established.
In a unique team-based event, the Sinkers established a Red Cross Blood Team where 25% of the club contributed to the vital blood supply in 2023 with 15 members participating in the first year.
In 2023, their collective efforts resulted in 61 donations, aiding the Red Cross in providing essential products to 192 patients in urgent need of life-saving transfusions.
The 2024 year is off the starting blocks in fine form with the team now boasting 17 members. At the end of May they had made 43 donations to assist 129 lives. The club is now on track to handsomely exceed its 2023 total and has set a new PB target of 80 donations and 240 patients assisted in their need of blood products.
Surprisingly the relatively small club Life Blood Team lies in 7th place behind some heavy hitting companies and organisations.
On a recent donation it was noticed that a certain member of the Mackay Road Runners was also in to provide a blood donation.
With the 16th BMA Marina run now completed, the Sinkers are eager to know if the Road Runners might like to form a Life Blood Team and bolster the Mackay Red Cross Blood centre with another team in a spirit of friendly community care.
Has your Sporting Club got a Life Blood Team? If so, the North Mackay Sinkers would love to know so that the sporting community can jump on board and get involved in this opportunity to assist patients in need of crucial blood necessities.
As they surpass previous achievements, the North Mackay Sinkers extend a heartfelt invitation to the broader community to dive into this great cause.
If your club would like to form a Life Blood Team, contact the Red Cross on 13 14 95 and ask for the coordinator to assist.

Contributed by Daniel Stampa

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Week one of the three-week Mackay Club Pairs Championship was played on Saturday. Players must have the same partner for all three weeks of the competition to be eligible to win the competition. Coveted red points are allocated each week for pairs in the top allocated spots. David Ting and Eric Goodchild, along with Max and Diane Holewa are in the lead after the first week.

Weekly Results
Monday 3 June 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

2nd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

3rd
Diane Holewa / Anne Lutz
3rd
Noel Bugeia / Geoffrey Patterson

4th
Sandy Patterson / Debra Goodchild
4th
Max Holewa / Mick King

Tuesday Evening 4 June 2024 5 Table One Winner
1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Marilin Wilson-Nicoll / Griff Bancroft
4th
Nancy Wix / Janine Rodgers
Wednesday 5 June 2024 – NWP Week 11 of 24 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

3rd
Joy Robertson / Robert Carless
3rd
Jan Harris / Sandra Morris

4th
Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders
4th
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait

Thursday Evening 6 June 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott
2nd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd
Errol Morris / Richard Wix
4th
Terry Sheedy / Chris Meyers
Friday 7 June 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Ming Ting
1st
Kitty Ranson / Bob Ranson

2nd
Gwen Liddell / Monica Darley
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole
3rd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild

4th
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
4th
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

Saturday 8 June 2024 – Mackay Club Pairs Championship Week 1 of 3 - 12 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Faye Wright / Christine Nice

3rd
Sandy Patterson / Noel Saunders
3rd
Geoffrey Patterson / Helen Van Den Broek

4th
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
4th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

5th
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
5th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

6th
Joy Robertson / Ken Seaniger
6th
Margaret Lane / Anne Lutz

‍

Contributed by Joy Block
‍

David Ting and Eric Goodchild

‍

Mackay Cutters have continued their topsy-turvy form in the 2024 QRL Hostplus Cup rugby league series.

There was no joy for Michael Comerford’s charges last weekend after suffering a 42-6 shellacking at the hands of Redcliffe Dolphins at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville.

It is a savage blow for the Cutters who have slumped to tenth spot after starting their premiership campaign with encouraging victories in the early rounds.

The match was played in front of a boisterous crowd as a curtain raiser to the Cowboys v Warriors NRL fixture.
A listless Mackay team had no answer to the rampant Dolphins who racked up seven tries in a dominant second-half performance.

Redcliffe winger Brenton Baira capped an impressive display with a hat-trick of tries.
The Dolphins jumped to an early 10-0 lead when Baira and half back Sean O’Sullivan both posted tries after nine minutes.

Skipper and lock Max Brailey crashed over for Redcliffe’s third try in the 31st minute with five eighth Joshua James adding the extras.

Mackay hit back with a converted try by winger Brent Anderson to trail 16-6 at the interval.

It was all Redcliffe in the second stanza as they chalked up 26 unanswered points through another two tries by Baira and four pointers to prop forward Jarrod Wallace, fullback Latrell Siegwalt and barnstorming centre Valynce Te Whare plus three James goals.

The win was Redcliffe’s seventh in twelve matches this season and lifts the club into fifth spot on the ladder.
Mackay are desperate to turn around their form when they host the Ipswich Jets this Saturday night at BB Print Stadium from 6pm.

Emerging Queensland Under 19s hooker Xavier Kerrisk is a young gun to watch for the Cutters after an illustrious career at schoolboy level with St Patrick’s College Mackay.
Both Kerrisk and Cowboys rookie Jaxon Purdue are two local heroes tipped for bigger things.

‍

Well over thirty runners and supporters braved the extremely cool conditions last weekend for Mackay Road Runners’ Blacks Beach Bush Bash. 

The warming sun was a welcome sight as it rose over Blacks Beach as 5km runners started from the Blacks Beach Tavern towards the beach and the 9.7km runners commenced in the opposite direction only to join up with the 5km runners in the final stages. The varying surfaces of bush trails and sandy shores gave runners a welcome reprieve from the usual concrete and tarmac, especially after the magnificent success of the BMA Mackay Marina Run racing the previous weekend.
 
Mick Vivian and Luke Leven charged to the lead from the start, with Mick taking and holding the lead in the 9.7km until the finish line.  Mick and Luke continue their great form from the BMA Mackay Marina Run before heading into the 5/15/30km Club Championship event next weekend.  Junior running sensation, Lily Leven was the standout first female in the 9.7km ahead of Jose Short, Teresa Hackney and Carmel Mahon. Shane Donnollan, Michael Feenaghty, Cory Gould, Mick Scholer, Craig Robinson, Clinton Mackie, Darrin Pullen, Andrew Wallace, Alan Zamparutti, Stephen Oberg, Jo Hughes, Nicole Ballingall and Judy Zahn thoroughly enjoyed the scenic long course as did the 5km runners Tahnie Malagueno, Carolyn Mapes, junior day runner Lenny, Andrew Short, Natasha Joynson, Katrina Ogilvie, David Isbister, Daniel Stampa, Len Haworth and Stuart Sprott.
 
Runners are now looking forward to this Sunday’s 30km Northview Park Club Championship incorporating 15km and 5km commencing 6am.  All runners are to meet at the Schaper Road, Glenella playground undercover area to register for racing ten minutes prior to 6am sharp for the 30km and 6.15am for the 5km and 15km.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

‍

Darrin Pullen marginally ahead of Andrew Wallace at the 4km mark of the 9.7km Blacks Beach Bush Bash
‍

Carmel Mahon cruising into the finish line in the 9.7km Blacks Beach Bush Bash
‍

Stephen Oberg (#45) and Jo Hughes (#28) completed a well-paced 9.7km Blacks Beach Bush Bash

‍

A change of scenery has proved a refreshing tonic for rising Wanderers half back Isaac McFarlane in the Mackay Junior League.

The skilful number seven has proved a valuable acquisition for the Roosters this season after carving his niche with the Magpies club.

Since linking with the Wanderers the gifted McFarlane has established himself the premier half back in the Under 15s competition with his organisational skills, turn of speed and kicking prowess a feature.

The all-conquering Roosters remain undefeated after nine rounds and top the standings on 18 points – two ahead of closest rivals Wests Tigers on 16 points.

A rejuvenated McFarlane has engineered many of those triumphs and is proving to be a points-scoring sensation for his new club.

The classy half spearheaded a 56-0 victory over the Proserpine Brahmans last weekend at Leprechaun Park – contributing an impressive haul of 22 points with two tries and seven goals.

It swelled his season tally to 92 points that comprises ten tries and twenty-six goals and has stamped McFarlane as one of the hottest prospects in the Mackay region.

Young Isaac’s immediate goal is to help the Wanderers lift the Under 15s premiership trophy, just two years after guiding the Magpies to an Under 13s Grand Final victory over Brahmans at BB Print Stadium.

Wanderers players of all ages enjoyed their club’s home round last weekend. Photos supplied

MEANWHILE the crack Mackay Brothers outfit continues to dominate the A Grade Men's division.

Last Saturday the undefeated Leprechauns trounced the Whitsunday Brahmans 44-22 at Leprechaun Park to chalk up a seventh successive victory.

Leading the try scoring rush were sharp backs Will Shears, Walter Lauenstein, Harley Proctor, Brad Campbell and Luke Fletcher, Mitchell Cargill with centre Rydge Smith potting six conversions.

In other fixtures Sarina Crocodiles downed Wests Tigers 36-24, Souths Sharks thumped Carltons Devils 68-8 while Moranbah Miners edged out Mackay Magpies 26-22 in a thrilling tussle at Darryl Bourke Oval.

‍

As the days begin to cool, bowls action at the Mackay Bowling Club has heated up with close matches across social, competition, and Pennant play.
Men’s Triples - Tuesday Afternoon
Winners: Col Marks and Neale Holt
Winner of the Losers: Alan Summerville, John Jorgensen, and Greg Thomsen
Scroungers - Thursday Afternoon - Steve Cassidy vs. Neale Holt in a close game was a notable match.
Pennant Competitions
Saturday Matches:
Division 2: Played at Wests Tigers, lost on three rinks.
Division 4: Played at home, defeated Nth Mackay.
Division 5: Played at Nth Mackay, lost on two rinks.
Sunday Matches:
Division 2: Played at home, defeated Marian Club two rinks to one.
Division 5: Played South Suburban at home, won on aggregate, both sides winning one rink each.
Division 4: Played at Northern Beaches, lost on aggregate, both sides winning one rink each.
Ladies Section Pennant
Weekday Matches: Defeated City Club both at City and at home. Defeated Sarina Club at home on Friday.
Special Event
Polymac B Fours Carnival: Mackay Bowling Club is hosting the event on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th June. All positions are filled, promising a weekend of excellent bowls.

‍
Contributed by Mike Irving

‍

Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club’s U15 Nate McKinnon recently travelled to Broadbeach on the Gold Coast to compete in the Australian Championships.  The event involves elite lifesavers being assessed on their surf sports fitness, patient assessment and CPR skills and a detailed theory paper, against the best of the best in each respective state.
Nate McKinnon took 1st place for the second year in a row, a huge achievement for surf lifesaving in this region.  
“The club is extremely proud of Nate for representing Mackay and demonstrating that our lifesavers are some of the best in Australia.  He has been training for months, under experienced coaches to achieve this result,” said Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports.
“It was also very fitting that at this event Mackay’s very own Reggie Butler was recognised for his 50 years of service to officiating the champion lifesaver events.
“The club is very proud of both of their achievements and is a testament to what surf lifesaving is about at our club.
“They are both champions of the lifesaving movement,” said Mr Grant.

‍

Nate McKinnon receiving his Gold medal at the National Surf Recuse Championships

It was very fitting for club patron, life member and living legend, Reg Butler, to finish his 50 years’ service of officiating and witness Nate take out 1st place at Aussies

Nate getting ready for the surf rescue tube race at nationals

Nate after taking 1st place in the board race at nationals, just one event in the champion lifesaver competition

Mackay Surf Club is very fortunate to have an experienced team of volunteers that help run the national titles, including Reg Butler (official), Peter Marshall (Chief Gear Steward) and Mick Tibaldi (workforce)

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixture results June 4, 2024:

Division 1:

Brown (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson, Graham Brake) d Orange (Janice Kent, Geoff Denman, Donna Abbott) 7-4. Donna d Andrea -9, 8, -4, 9, 8.

Blue (Steven Whiting, Lee Brake, Will VanDeKaa) d Red (George Camilleri, Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker) 6-5. Lee d Graeme 5, -6, -9, 8, 11.

Purple (Duncan Treloar, Emma Widdup, Robbie Richards) d Green (Tim Shehan, Lily Boland, Leo Gilbert) 8-3. Robbie d Lily 7, 12, -8, -12, 8.

White (Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) d Black (Allan Robins, Goncalo Serra, Tony Bowman) 6-5. Tony d Mark -8, 6, -8, 7, 10.

Division 2:

Rose (Niro Premachandra, Mark Stam, Nehmat Dhaliwal) d Tan (Saisha Palod, Jye Callandar, Judy Zahn) 6-3. Niro d Jye -9, 9, 8, 5.

Lime (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) d Teal (Craig VanDeKaa, Peter Goodson) 6-3. Simon d Peter 5, 3, 12.

Cyan (David Symons, Trent Day) d Gold (Steve Mathieson, Ollie Hamelink) 5-4. Ollie d David -9, 5, 9, -10, 9.

Grey (Kade Wright, Geoff Cowan, Val Austin) d Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) 7-4. Geoff d Delma 7, -7, 20, -4, 7.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures June 4, 2024:

Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall) 7-5. Delma d Donna 11, -8, 6, -7, 9.

Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, John McGee) d Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) 9-3. Steve d Pam -11, 6, -6, 9, 5.

Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Rhonda Payne) d Ibis (Tony Bowman, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) 7-5. Rhonda d Noreen 6, 6, -7, -8, 9.

Division 2:

Magpies (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Kim Daffy) d Cockatoos (Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) 8-4. Gloria d John 6, 7, -8, -10, 8.

Doves (Louise Gould, Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba) d Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Robyn Bushell, Ian Dodds) 7-5. Louise/Iris d Judi/Robyn 11, 8, -7, -11, 7.

Division 3:

Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) d Prawn (Madge Saunders, Trish Zamparuti) 8-3. Madge d Sharon 6, -8, -3, 9, 7.

Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey) d Crab (Pam Keune, Darryl Ross) 8-4. Pam d Nadine -9, 8, -5, 8, 3.

‍

Contributed by Charlie Payne

‍

Rhonda Payne had a close match against Noreen Fredericksen in Division 1 on Tuesday morning, winning 11-9 in the fifth set. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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Riding high on an undefeated streak, the McDonalds Mackay Men’s Meteors faced off against the Darwin Salties last weekend in a game that promised to test their mettle.

The game resulted in a clash of titans, with the Salties emerging victorious with a commanding 18-point lead, sealing the fate of the Men’s Meteors with a final score of 113 to 95.

Reflecting on the game, Head Coach Joel Khalu acknowledged the harsh reality check it provided for his team. "It was a bit of a reality check for us tonight, I think," he remarked.

"Darwin obviously came in here with a purpose around taking care of business on the road."

He pointed to the pivotal second quarter as the turning point where the game slipped away from their grasp.

Player Jerron Jamerson echoed Khalu's sentiments, highlighting the Salties' relentless blitz in the second quarter.

"This is the first season that we’ve really been hit as far as not only the pace that we played, but just that physicality," he admitted, emphasising the importance of bouncing back from the defeat.

On the other hand, The McDonald's Mackay Women’s Meteorettes finished strong and secured a resounding victory over the Darwin Salties, resulting in a 10-point margin in a final score of 98 to 85.

Despite the men’s home-ground loss, the weekend held a greater significance beyond basketball. It marked the annual McDonald’s Mackay Meteors Fundraising Game & Charity Singlet Auction, a momentous occasion where community rallied behind a noble cause.

The Meteors wore limited edition jerseys for the fundraising game, symbolising their commitment to supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia and the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital.

Following the intense matchup, the jerseys, infused with the sweat and spirit of the game, were auctioned off to eager bidders, with every bid contributing to the vital funds needed for the Ronald McDonald house.

Nell Thomsett shared her testimony as a local mother who experienced the support of the Ronald McDonald Family Room during her child’s visit and emphasised the importance of continuously raising funds for the initiative.

“The house was absolutely fantastic, it is the best asset and while it’s currently closed for renovations, they do have the cart going around which is just incredible.

“To be able to sit at the table and eat together as a family and have somewhere for the kids to play together and have fun, it’s just a really great service.

“Most of the meals and poppers or tea and coffee are provided via donation so the money that’s raised at events like the Mackay Basketball on the weekends is what keeps it going.

“Mackay Basketball are great supporters and they run amazing events, so everybody should come along to the next fundraiser at Mackay Basketball, it’s such a great cause,” Nell remarked.

Overall Highlights:

Women’s
MKY 98 def DRW 85
Sam Haiby | 28 pts, 9 rebs & 5 ast
Nikita Van Wyk | 20 pts & 5 rebs
Cheyenne Bobongie | 15 pts & 3 rebs
Taylor Mole | 12 pts & 12 rebs
Chelsea Brook | 11 pts & 11 rebs

Men’s
DRW 113 def MKY 95
Jerron Jamerson | 29 pts & 5 rebs
Isaac White | 25 pts & 4 rebs
Todd Blanchfield | 13 pts & 9 rebs
Aiden Krause | 13 pts & 3 stls

‍

The McDonald's Mackay Women’s Meteorettes took home the win against the Darwin Salties, however the McDonald's Mackay Men’s Meteors were deemed defeated. Despite the loss, crucial funds were raised on the night to support the Ronald McDonald House Charities. Photo Credit: Mackay Basketball (Facebook)

‍

Another competitive week at the Mackay Contract Bridge Club last week. Along with normal play, twelve teams competed in the Whitsunday Zone Teams; winners to go the Queensland Festival of Bridge to compete against other teams from all over the state. The team that will be representing the Whitsunday Zone is Diane Holewa, Max Holewa, Noel Bugeia & Terry Sheedy. Twenty-four pairs competed in the Nation Wide Novice Pairs with Mary Rose Ramsden & Noel Saunders and Sandy Patterson & Geoff Cowan the winners. The winner of the Remembrance pairs after three weeks was Noel Bugeia. Congratulations to the winners and to all who participated.

‍

Weekly Results
Monday 27 May 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2nd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

3rd
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Sandy Ford

Tuesday 28 May 2024 – Nation Wide Novice Pairs 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Mary Rose Ramsden / Noel Saunders
1st
Sandy Patterson / Geoff Cowan

2nd
Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell
2nd
Susan Ross / Vicki Howard

Tuesday Evening 28 May 2024 5 Table One Winner
1st
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
2nd
Helen Va Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Mick King / Richard Wix
4th
Shirley Casey / Faith Hutchinson
Wednesday 29 May 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait
3rd
Mick King / Joy Block

Thursday Evening 30 May 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Ian Cruickshank / Marilin Robins

2nd
Frances Brown / Adrian Westcott
2nd
Mick King / Patricia Garner

3rd
Lynne O’Neill / Susan Gibson
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 31 May 2024 – Week 3 of 3 Remembrance Pairs – 11 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Christine Nice
1st
Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy

2nd
Ming Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Simon Barnes / Geoffrey Patterson

3rd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Barbara Tait

Remembrance Pairs Winners 2024 after three weeks with three different partners
1st
Noel Bugeia
2nd
Janelle Conroy
3rd
Terrence Sheedy
4th
Ming Ting
5th
Nancy Martin
5th
David Ting
7th
Debra Goodchild
8th
Julie O’Neill
Saturday 1 June 2024 & Sunday 2 June 2024 – Whitsunday Zone Teams - 12 Team Red Points
Open
Team
1st
Holewa – Diane Holewa / Max Holewa / Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Brown – Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

Supplied By Joy Sleep

‍

Diane and Max, Noel and Terry
Geoff Cowan , Ian and Sandy Patterson

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MACKAY Cutters young guns Jaxon Purdue and Jamal Shibasaski have made every post a winner in the Hostplus Cup.

The 18-year-old former Queensland Schoolboys representatives realised a dream last Sunday when they marked their NRL debuts with the North Queensland Cowboys.
With the Cutters enjoying a bye, the versatile Purdue and power running forward Shibasaki were blooded in the Cowboys’ top-grade squad and made an impact in the club’s miraculous 18-16 victory over Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium.

Minus the likes of Tom Dearden, Reuben Cotter, Jeremiah Nanai, Val Holmes, Murray Taulagi and Reece Robson on Origin duty, the Cowboys produced an epic second half revival to sink the Roosters and kick-start their campaign.

Purdue, a classy utility half, was rushed in to play centre after the late withdrawal of Tom Chester and grabbed his opportunity with a slick performance.

The towering Shibasaki came off the interchange bench and matched it with the much-vaunted Roosters’ forward pack.

Since graduating from St Patrick’s College Mackay’s famous sporting nursery last year, Purdue has dreamed of pulling on a Cowboys jumper in the NRL premiership.
The classy utility half is one of a batch of former St Patrick’s students contracted to the Cowboys and on the radar of coaches Todd Payten and James Maloney.

Purdue was blooded in the North Queensland top squad during a Pre-Season Challenge fixture against the Brisbane Broncos back in February where he displayed his raw pace, tricky step and silky ball skills.

That match was staged in Jaxon’s “backyard” at BB Print Stadium with the emerging rookie giving Cowboys supporters a taste of things to come. But all eyes have been on Purdue and Shibasaki in recent weeks after their strong performances for the Mackay Cutters in the Hostplus Cup competition.

Purdue has made seven appearances for the rejuvenated Cutters this season including four successive games as the run-on number seven with the strapping Shibasaki impressing officials with his barnstorming runs and rugged defence.

Michael Comerford’s new look Cutters have enjoyed mixed results to date with five wins and five losses.

With the talented playmaker and boom forward stepping up in class, Mackay officials are hopeful the first-grade team can force its way into the Hostplus Cup finals series come September.

The clever Purdue has notched five tries and two try assists and averages just under 100 running metres a game since being rushed into the Cutters’ top-grade squad.
Keen judges believe Jaxon was destined to play in the NRL since spearheading St Patrick’s College to Cowboys Challenge and Aaron Payne Cup schoolboy premiership trophies these past three seasons.

The pathway for the rising colt is crystal clear – serving a half back ‘apprenticeship’ with his beloved Cutters before pushing his claims for a Cowboys jumper on a regular basis.

After a weekend bye, the Cutters square off with Redcliffe Dolphins this Saturday at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium at 2.35pm.

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All conquering Mackay Brothers are setting a cracking pace in the 2024 NQBE Mackay Junior League A Grade competition.

The runaway leaders demonstrated their power and class last Saturday by trouncing Wests Tigers 30-0 at Leprechaun Park to preserve their unbeaten status.

It was the Brothers’ sixth successive victory of the season and keeps them four points clear of rivals Mackay Magpies on 12 competition points.

Tom Heggie’s well drilled charges proved too strong for the Tigers with Australian Universities utility back Kane Simon posting a try double and fullback Walter Lauenstein, centre Jayden Batchelor and half back Brad Campbell nabbing four pointers and centre Rydge Smith booting five goals.

In other fixtures the Moranbah Miners slammed Carltons Devils 64-0 in a twelve try rout at the Mackay Junior League Fields.

Talented fullback Nat Hinchliffe capped a slick performance with a try double.

Moranbah wingers Dylan Womal and Hayden Bell, interchange Clint Broomham, utility ace Ethan Roberts, lock forward Remus Phineasa, second rower Cooper Hannay and centre Mark Rosendale also crossed for tries in a dominant display.
Souths Sharks ran in eight tries to outclass Whitsunday Brahmans 40-10 at Les Stagg Oval while Mackay Magpies and Sarina Crocodiles fought out an 18-all draw at Sologinkin Oval.

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Mackay Regional Council was proud to support the Whitsunday STEM Challenge over the weekend at the Mackay and District Kart Club, through their Economic Development and Tourism program.

The winning team of the Pedal Prix Human Powered Vehicle 16-hour Endurance Event completed an amazing 573 laps.

Mackay Regional Council Congratulated the teams from Mackay Northern Beaches State High School who won the senior and junior boys categories and said it was great to have Cr Alison Jones and youth councillor Nate Ralph at the Pedal Prix to present awards.

Overall, there were 9023 laps completed, which is 7002kms travelled. In total, 20 teams competed, with visiting teams coming from Emerald, Bundaberg, Charters Towers and Townsville.

Mackay Regional Council, along with BMA, have supported this event since 2017.

Whitsunday Stem Challenge expressed their heartfelt gratitude in a Facebook comment that said, “Thank you for your support with this amazing event.

“Watching our local and visiting teams in action with the Pedal Prix vehicles is inspirational.

“Without this support, events like this are not possible.”

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Through an Economic Development and Tourist program, Mackay Regional Council supported the Whitsunday STEM challenge at the Mackay and District Kart Club last weekend. Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Approximately seventy runners and supporters met at The Grove Tavern, Bedford Road, Andergrove for the racing of the annual Grove 10km Handicap Trophy on the 26th of May. Despite the onset of formal winter season only days away, the conditions were humid and sunny as runners traversed the multitude of streets in the Andergrove suburb, including the challenging Apsley Way circuit in a bid to take out the coveted 10km Grove Handicap Trophy.  

To be eligible for the trophy, all members must start off on their official handicap and whoever crosses the line first, male or female, in the 10km event is The Grove 10km Handicap Trophy champion. The trophy has been ‘running’ since 1994 with a multitude of talented athletes boasting their past glory days to all those that will listen.

The Grove 2024 Handicap champion, Craig Robinson survived a hiccup in the winners’ circle to ultimately take out the top gong. His win was even more special when he realised, he had won the top prize quoting “never won anything like this before!”  Congratulations to Craig and all the runners who made the event a great success with a lot of very memorable performances on show.

Closing in fast behind Craig were talented runners, Brad Fraser, Ashley Miles, Shane Donnollan, Cory Gould, Craigh McGahey, Carolyn Mapes, Werner VanDerLinde, Clint Mackie, Alan Zamparutti, Ollie Gorrion, John Rae, Todd Turner, Mel Esau, Theresa Hackney and previous two-time winner of The Grove Trophy, David Isbister.   Classy performances were also on show in the 5km with champion swimmer, among his many talents, Daniel Stampa breaking the tape first on handicap ahead of Julie Whibley, Rhiann Massey, Emily Dalglish, Len Haworth, Susan Petersen, Andrew Short, Natasha Joynson, Stuart Sprott and Alleny Gorrion.

Congratulations to everyone including the race major beneficiary, Mackay Leukaemia Foundation for once again being involved in the very successful BMA Mackay Marina Run 2024 last weekend.

Thank you to those who helped setup on the day and for distributing race bags for the largest regional running festival, which is the prestigious Mackay Road Runners Signature Event and Club Championship 21.1km - the very successful BMA Mackay Marina Run.

A special congratulations to the amazing Mackay Marina Run committee, it's many long-standing supportive sponsors, race ambassadors and all the very many volunteers, runners, walkers, etc, you are all hero's!


Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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Paul Tilse was a past winner of the 10km The Grove Handicap Trophy presents the 2024 champion, Craig Robinson with the coveted trophy.
Warming up prior to The Grove 10km Handicap Trophy and 5km event are Emily Dalglish, Carolyn Mapes, Todd Turner, Mel Esau, Glynis Forse and Jo Skinner.
Volunteers Mick Scholer, Andrew Short, Brendan Bishop and Hughie Bishop are always happy to lend a hand.
Highest handicapped backmarkers Paul Mackenzie, Hamish Donnollan and Jared Mackie and (Luke Leven absent) await their handicap start callup.
Susan Petersen ran handy 5km despite an injury.
Multi-talented athlete, champion swimmer, Daniel Stampa easily cruises the 5km run at The Grove Handicap 10km Trophy event.

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Congratulations to Ashton Wallin, a young BMX champion who took home the President Award last week at Mackay and District BMX Club Inc.

Ashton won the President Award for consistently giving it his all against older riders and never giving up on the race after displaying constant determination to make it across the finish line.

Well done Ashton!

Local BMX rider, Ashton Wallin won the President Award for giving it his all and displaying unwaivering resilience and dedication on the track. Photo Credit: Mackay and District BMX Club Inc (Facebook)

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Recently, Pioneer Tennis Juniors travelled out to the Emerald Open. Great country tournament part of the "Aussie Gold Natural Spring Water" Capra Series. 

8 of Pioneer's Next Gen Squad made up part of the 84-player tournament where they showcased some fantastic results. 

In the 10 & Unders, Uday Singh and Isabelle Daniel took out both the singles before teaming up with other club’s players and taking out the Doubles too. 

They both now will be receive 50% off Solar Bat Sunglasses and will receive FREE entry into the QLD Head State Age.

They will also find out where they will move to in terms of the Racquet World's Prince and Princess Races.

In the 14&16 Boys Singles, Raice Gibbons lost in the finals of the Boys Singles, with fellow stable mate, Noah Piperidis taking out 3rd position. 

In the 12& Under, Tommy Louw seeded 1, lived up to his billing as the one to beat in taking out the 12& Under Singles. In the Prince Race, he will be flying high as he is moving through onto Gladstone and then Mackay with the top position in his sights.

Lexi Tapp finished 9th in the Open Ladies winning $100 for her efforts and moving her up in the Capra's Queen's Race to No. 6. 

Lilly Shepherd also in the Open Ladies Singles seeded 4th and won $350 for her efforts which will see her move to number 2 in the Capra's Queen Race. 

Lucas Chansoonsen represented Pioneer well in the Open Men's draw and winning and losing in super tie breaks all weekend.

Lucas finished 11th from the field of Open men and sees him now No. 8 on the Capra's Kings Race. 

Next stop…Gladstone, open this weekend, June 7-9.

By Pioneer Tennis Inc

Uday Singh and Isabelle Daniel took out both the singles and received 50% off Solar Bat Sunglasses as well as a FREE entry into the QLD Head State Age. Photo Credit: Pioneer Tennis Inc (Facebook)

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Mackay Cutters have secured a historic rugby league championship double after capturing the 2024 BMD Womens Premiership.

In a unique feat the Cutters women showed their champion qualities to sink Norths Devils 16-6 in an absorbing Grand Final at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium to bring home the club’s second piece of silverware in the space of five weeks.

There were jubilant scenes last month when the Cutters lifted the inaugural Harvey Norman Under 19s Womens trophy with an 18-16 Grand Final triumph over Brisbane Tigers at Totally Workwear Stadium.

It was a double celebration for Mackay’s rising half back Mersades Lawson, hooker Paityne Johns and centre Miah Powell who can now boast Under 19s and BMD Premiership medals in the one season.

Gun forward Lily Peacock produced an outstanding best-on-ground performance for the Cutters – inspiring team mates with her bustling runs, clever passing and rugged defence.

Mackay notched three tries in the space of six minutes through North Queensland prop Sareka Mooka, number nine Alisha Foord and centre Jasmine Peters to jump to a handy 14-0 lead.

Norths hit back when fullback Montaya Hudson crossed for a vital four pointer that was converted by five eighth Georgia Hannaway before the interval.

Talented Cutters’ five eighth Kayla Shepherd scored the lone two points of the second half when she booted a late penalty goal.

Marco Peters’ champion Mackay squad can reflect on a memorable campaign that yielded nine victories and a draw from their eleven matches plus the minor and premiership titles.

Their only blemish was a 22-10 loss to the Burleigh Bears in a round seven preliminary fixture at UAA Park on the Gold Coast.

In winning both the Harvey Norman Under 19s and BMD Womens Premiership trophies the Cutters’ players and officials have etched their names in the Queensland Rugby League record books.

Mackay’s championship-winning BMD Womens Premiership squad for 2024 featured fullback Krystal Blackwell, wingers Libby Surha and Ebony Raftstrand-Smith, centres Shellie Long and Jasmine Peters, five eighth Kayla Shepherd and half back
Tahlulah Tillett, lock forward Lillian Yarrow, second rowers Shaniah Power and Bree Chester, prop forwards Lily Peacock and Essay Banu, hooker Alisha Foord with interchange props Lyrech Mara and Sareka Mooka, utility half Emily Bella and lock forward Pani Rupapere and Under 19s winning trio of half back Mersades Lawson, hooker Paityne Johns and centre Miah Powell.

Supplied by Chris Karas

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The Mackay Cutters have achieved a significant milestone in rugby league history by clinching a double championship victory in the 2024 BMD Women's Premiership. Image Credit: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)

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MACKAY Cutters returned to the winners list in Hostplus Cup action last weekend with a rousing 40-26 triumph over the PNG Hunters at BB Print Stadium.

The Cutters produced a spirited second half revival to sink their opponents and chalk up a fifth win from ten games played.

PNG led 20-10 at the break but failed to contain a rampaging Mackay line up that stormed to victory in the second stanza with a five try rout.

Hunters prop Junior Rop burst over to score the opening try of the match after three minutes that was converted by half back Jamie Mavoko before Cutters centre Josh Smith responded with the first of his two tries in the 11th minute.

The powerful Rop bagged a double soon after as the Hunters edged ahead but Mackay’s gun utility half Jaxon Purdue levelled proceedings when he evaded defenders to cross for a neat four pointer.

PNG centre Alex Max stamped his mark before the half time interval – scooting over for two tries in the space of four minutes to give the visitors a handy ten-point lead.

It was all the Cutters after lemons with prop Brandon Russell, five eighth Riley Dean, emerging forward Jamal Shibasaki, fullback Raydan Burns and the capable Smith crashing over for tries to blitz the Hunters.

Dean added six conversions to complete a morale-boosting win in front of a raucous local crowd.
The victory snapped a four-match losing streak for the rejuvenated Cutters who have a bye this weekend.

Supplied By Chris Karas

The QCCS Mackay Cutters took on the PNG Hunters in last Sundays afternoon clash. Image credit: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)

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Mackay Brothers earned bragging rights in the 2024 NQBE Mackay Junior League A Grade competition after toppling the Magpies 24-10 in their top of the table clash last Sunday at Sologinkin Oval.

The unbeaten Leprechauns turned in another polished performance to register their fifth consecutive win of the season and open up a four-point gap from their rivals.

Brothers scored four tries to two with crack centres Rydge Smith and Jayden Batchelor, second rower Declan Laird and hooker Daniel Kelly posting four pointers and Smith booting four conversions.

Souths Sharks remain entrenched in the top four after tossing Moranbah Miners 32-12 at Shark Park.

Back rower Frank Tuivaiti, centre Ali Okusitino, fullback Marmin Barba and half back Henri Stocks notched tries for Souths with Stocks potting six goals.

Moranbah half back Nat Hinchliffe and centre Mark Rosendale grabbed tries for the visitors.

Wests Tigers thumped Carltons Devils 70-10 at Tiger Park with five eighth Nicholas Baker contributing twenty points from a try and eight goals.

Other try scorers for Wests included skipper and second rower Darcy Cox (2), winger Brydon Smith (2), fullback Connor McDermott, hooker Tait Poli, centres Zack Walker and Tyler Holmes, Will Goodland, lock Kellen Jenner, back rower Bradley Simpson and winger Joran Schoenmaker.

Sarina Crocodiles had too many big guns for the Whitsunday Brahmans, carving out a 40-14 triumph at Les Stagg Oval.

In Under 15 Boys action, the Wanderers Roosters and Wests Tigers remain undefeated after seven rounds.
Wanderers downed arch rivals Mackay Magpies 28-8 with talented centres Cliff Hussey (2) and Amos Grigg and prop Xavier Wayman (2) notching tries and half back Isaac McFarlane booting four goals.

The Tigers rolled Brothers Blue 16-6 with promising hooker Marik Srsen, fullback Jed Spreadborough and  centre Zac Hansen crossing for tries and centre Chevy Bartolo landing two goals in an absorbing tussle.

The Brothers' relentless performance last Sunday resulted in a commanding victory over the Magpies.
Photo Credit: Jessica Wilson Photography

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Friday saw the second week of the three-week 2024 Remembrance Pairs competition. This competition is to remember past players and members who are no longer with us and who contributed to building the club into what it is now. It is also to remember present members who have and continue to contribute, as well as to welcome and mentor our newest members to the club.

Weekly Results
Monday 20 May 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2nd
Antonia Tarradas / Victor Mason
2nd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson

3rd
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

Tuesday Evening 21 May 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Mick King / Richard Wix
3rd
Alan Brown / Israel Hall
4th
Janine Rodgers / Nancy Wix
Wednesday 22 May 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait
4th
David Ting / Ming Ting
5th
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
6th
Annette Howe / Noel Saunders
Thursday Evening 23 May 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Susan Ross / Jan Harris
3rd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
4th
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
Friday 24 May 2024 – Week 2 of 3 Remembrance Pairs – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild

2nd
Diane Stokes / Joy Robinson
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Geoff Cowan

3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Don Josie Crowley
3rd
Julie O’Neill / Sue Mayer-Miller

3rd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
4th
Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson

5th
Nancy Martin / Gwen Liddell
5th
Susan Wright / Clre Wallace

6th
Kath Poole / Monica Darley
6th
Noel Bugeia / Pamela Finger

Saturday 25 May 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
1st
Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft

2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Frances Brown / Alan Brown

3rd
Monica Darley / Toni Large
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Terry Sheedy

4th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
4th
Patricia Garner / Geoffrey Patterson

Sunday 26 May – Novice & Mentors 7 Tables Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Block / David Ting
1st
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

2nd
Janice Mansfield / Griffin Bancroft
2nd
Frances Brown / Israel Hall

3rd
Carmel Brown / Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd
Faith Hutchinson / Anne Lutz

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Two of Australia’s most celebrated Olympic legends will be heading to the BMA Mackay Marina Run on Sunday 2 June 24.

Olympian and London Marathon Age World Record holder, Krishna Stanton will pace out the 21.1km half marathon in Mackay at a time of 1 hr and 45 minutes while Athletics Australia Hall of Fame Inductee, Benita Willis, will also attend as an ambassador.

Krishna represented Australia at numerous World Cross Country Championships, World indoor Championships (3000m), the Commonwealth Games (10,000m) in Victoria, Canada, and the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona (3000m).

Krishna was the winner of the Sydney City to Surf in 1992, a Silver medallist in the marathon at the Manchester Commonwealth Games and 2002 and is still running to this day, having broken the World Record for the Women's Marathon in the 55-59 age group at the London Marathon in 2022.

Born in Mackay (and now residing at the Gold Coast), Benita Willis is regarded as Australia’s greatest female distance runner.  Benita has had an illustrious sporting career and is a three-time national champion in the women’s 5,000 metres. In 2004 Willis achieved one of the most significant victories in Australian athletics when she won the World Cross Country Championships.

Benita is the only Australian ever to win this race — arguably the hardest race in the world. Benita has represented Australia in four Olympics, held numerous championship records (some that still stand today) and was inducted into the Athletics Australia Hall of Fame in 2018.

Event Director, Tim said having two influential Australian runners involved in the event was a huge win for regional Queensland.

Said Tim, “These two ladies are two of the best in terms of Australian running and for our race entrants to have the opportunity to run with Olympic legends of this calibre is pretty special.”

Advised Tim, “The sport of running is really unique, it’s all about community, challenging and supporting each other and I can’t think of a more amazing way to push yourself than taking on the pace set by an Olympic champion.”

Interest in the BMA Mackay Marina Run continues to grow each year with this year’s event even attracting a small cohort of international runners.

Tim advised, “Entries in this year’s half marathon are about to hit 600 which is a record for us.  We also will be welcoming 4 international runners to Mackay which is a coup for us and for profiling our region globally.”

Now in its 16th year, the BMA Mackay Marina run will raise much needed funds for local Leukaemia Foundation services and programs.

Since its inception, the event has raised more than $600,000 to support local families in their fight against blood cancer.

Registrations for this year’s 21.1km half marathon, 10km and 5km fun runs and 3km kids dash will close Saturday 1 June at 4pm.

To register, visit mackaymarinarun.com

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What: BMA Mackay Marina Run
When: Sunday 2 June, 2024
Where: Mackay Marina QLD 4740
Info: www.mackaymarinarun.com

Two esteemed Olympic legends from Australia will grace the BMA Mackay Marina Run on Sunday, June 2nd.

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With the more popular State & National Masters Championship events now in the recent past the club turned its attention to a more challenging and adventurous activity according to some members. A short time ago our secretary insisted we should be enjoying our back yard more and swimming some local waters.
Thus, the “Four Dams in One Day” concept was launched in Summer but actioned on Saturday 25th May with a few short days of our northern autumn remaining. A quick ring around and NQ Truck and Car rentals had a small 12-seater bus for us to hire at a great rate and the road trip was on. Except of course we were oversubscribed with willing guinea pigs for this “Cool” adventure and ended up with a sort of tag along tour as well. As we proceeded deeper into the Pioneer valley all eyes were on the ascent to Eungella which was again shrouded in clouds, mist and drizzle. Eungella delivered its aboriginal meaning “Land of the Cloud” in a true and cruel twist of the weather. None the less we pressed on to the first stop at the top of the range to enjoy the range in what turned into a short comfort stop before we all hastily returned to the warm confines of the vehicles.
With the enthusiasm quickly diminishing we were buoyed by the first rays of sunshine as we crossed the divide into the rain shadow past this escarpment and approached the first swim (of four) in Eungella Dam. Fourteen intrepid swimmers took the first plunge into what turned out to be 21 degrees of “Wake up Wally” water as we set off on a 15 minute out and back swim. The consensus was that the swim was well worth the effort but the team wanted a treat!
Next stop was near water but not in it at the fabulous “Eden Café” on the Digging’s Road. Warm drinks and some treats were enjoyed before we set off for Teemburra Dam and swim #2, in mostly bright sunshine as the weather turned favourable. With more interest and a little practice on rigging for swimming mode we made good time in entering, swimming and getting ready for another move. But as swimmers and Sinkers know not without sustenance as we managed a short break and enjoyed a picnic lunch before someone upset the Pidgeon’s with a “Lets Go” call!
Kinchant Dam was the site for our third swim which proved pleasant enough with swimmers now like a well-oiled machine taking to the water without fear as they followed the bank and dam wall marker buoys in another pleasant swim.
In no time at all we had reboarded and hit the road for the Pioneer River at Balnagowan for our final swim in one of our favourite spots. All bar one re-entered the water and set off for a swim to suit ability before returning to the pontoon for some glam photo opportunities.
We managed some 300km for the day with 14 swimmers that completed a distance and time suitable to ability, our most senior member was 80 and some young guns in the 30 plus area. Some swimmers managed 6km across the 4 swims and others 2- 4km in a unique and interesting format of 4 swims of 30 minutes during a great day out in Pioneer valley.
The event was available to members only but we are happy for guest swimmers to join us for training sessions (up to a calendar month) to get a sense of club activities and vibe.
Our next membership option is the 6-month period from July 1st to December 31st 2024 so now is the perfect time to come and try a session and get back into swimming for fun and fitness, reaching goals or maybe a return to the blocks for that competitive spirit. Regardless of your focus the club will help you reach that small or aspirational goal in a supportive environment.
Sinkers Sessions
Mondays: 515pm for 530-630pm (Millie Monday - coached)
Wednesdays: 515pm- for 530-630pm (Whiteboard Wednesday, led from the pool)
Saturday: 08-0900am (Social Saturday, led from the pool followed by coffee and a treat!)
(for further information visit www.facebook.com/NthMackaySinkers or phone 0413 805 156)

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Swim 1, Swimmers returning to shore at Eungella Dam.
Swim 2. Swimmers after the Teemburra Dam swim, all agreed this was the best of the 4 swims. Images Supplied.

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures May 21, 2024:

Division 1:

Green (Tim Shehan, Lily Boland, Leo Gilbert) d Blue (Will VanDeKaa, Steven Whiting, Lee Brake) 7-4. Lily d Lee -15, 11, 8, -6, 8.

Purple (Emma Widdup, Tony Bowman, Robbie Richards) d Red (George Camilleri, Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker) 9-2. Robbie d Graeme -4, 15, -5, 9, 9.

White (Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) d Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) 7-4. Neil d Janice -9, -5, 12, 7, 8.

Black (Goncalo Serra, Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) d Brown Andre Nicholson, Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske) 8-3. Allan d Andrea 8, 4, -9, -9, 16.

Division 2:

Gold (Steve Mathieson, Adrian Marsh, Ollie Hamelink) d Lime (Anaya Reelh, Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-4. Simon d Steve -7, 6, -5, 9, 9.

Cyan (Matt West, Trent Day, Val Austin) d Teal (Craig VanDeKaa, Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh) 7-4. Trent d Aarnav -8, -3, 8, 9, 5.

Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) d Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro Premachandra, Mark Stam) 7-4. Delma d Niro 13, -6, 5, -6, 8.

Tan (Saisha Palod, Jye Callander, Judy Zahn) d Grey (Doug Dungavell, Misha Palod, Kade Wright) 6-5. Kade d Judy -5, 8, 6, -8, 15.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures May 21, 2024:

Division 1:

Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, John McGee) d Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) 8-4. Peter d John 9, -8, -11, 8, 10.

Ibis (Tony Bowman, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) d Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Judy d Coral -7, 2, -9, 3, 8.

Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Marie Taylor) d Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Ross deBoer) 8-4. Marie d Ross -8, 7, -8, 7, 8.

Division 2:

Magpies (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Kim Daffy) d Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Robyn Bushell, Ian Dodds) 10-2. Ken d Judi -11, 11, -7, 8, 8.

Doves (Gerry Synnott, Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba) d Cockatoos (Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) 8-4. Veronica d Gerry -11, 8, -7, 9, 6.

Division 3:

Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey, Nadine) d Squid (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) 7-5. Cheryl d Sharon -7, -3, 5, 8, 13.

Prawn (Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross, Glenda Dutton) d Crab (Pam Keune, Myles Dutton) 8-4. Madge/Darryl d Pam/Myles 11, -6, 8, -6, 9.

Supplied by Charlie Payne

Peter Goodson smashes in Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures. Image Supplied

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As participants flocked to John Breen Park last weekend, the atmosphere was ablaze with excitement and anticipation. Families, friends, and even furry companions eagerly awaited the start of the Colour Frenzy Run, ready to immerse themselves in a kaleidoscope of hues and a day filled with vibrant experiences.
The exciting event, known for its burst of colours and festive atmosphere, promised a 2.5km or 5km journey filled with laughter, joy, and plenty of hues. With each step, participants knew they were not just embarking on a fun run or walk, but also supporting a noble cause – raising funds for Animal Rescue across Australia.
The Colour Frenzy team, fuelled by their passion for furry friends, set an ambitious goal for 2024: to raise $5000 for a local rescue and a combined $250,000 nationwide. It was a mission close to their hearts, and they knew that every stride taken, and every burst of colour unleashed would bring them closer to their target.
The fun run sent waves of colour enthusiasts dashing through a whirlwind of obstacles, foam, and of course, colour, colour, colour. At each Colour Station, participants were splashed with extra doses of pops of powder, transforming them into living works of art. The highly anticipated Bubbles Station brought squeals of delight as bubbles danced through the air, adding an extra layer of whimsy to the event.
As participants crossed the finish line, they were greeted with cheers, applause, and beautiful Colour Frenzy Finisher Medals – a symbol of their accomplishment and their contribution to a greater good. Even the doggos, adorned in their own vibrant hues, joined in the celebration, wagging their tails in delight.

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Photo credit: Colour Frenzy

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Brendan Whitby has padded up in first grade and rubbed shoulders with some of the biggest names in Queensland cricket.
The Mackay Magpies stalwart spent eight seasons with Toombul District Cricket Club in the Brisbane Premier League competition where he earned his top-grade spurs as a capable all-rounder.
Whitby’s cricket journey has taken the experienced campaigner and his three sons Jacob, Thomas and Nicholas to the Mackay District Cricket Association and the scene of many career highlights.
After a twelve-year hiatus, Brendan joined the Magpies Cricket Club where he has savoured some magic moments over the past two summers.
One of his proudest moments earlier this year was playing alongside eldest son Jacob, 13, for the Magpies in the Mackay District third grade Grand Final at Harrup Park.
Walkerston Red pipped the Magpies to lift the Maurice Blackburn Lawyers Cup but the thrill of joining forces with promising all-rounder Jacob in a title decider was worth the effort alone.
A proud Brendan skippered the young Magpies X1 and top scored with 40 after son Jacob compiled a valuable 21 runs off 74 balls to help their side register 7-143 off 35 overs.
Brendan faced 44 balls and smashed three sixes and two boundaries but to no avail as Walkerston (7-144) responded by eclipsing their target in the 34th over.
Whitby senior showed his wares with the ball – grabbing the remarkable figures of 4-17 off seven tidy overs and Jacob returning 0-9 off eighteen deliveries.
It capped an eventful summer for the talented father-son duo who also tasted success in the junior ranks.
Top prospect Jacob captained the Magpies Under 14s to a premiership triumph in the Mackay Under 15B competition – under the guidance of super coach Brendan.
“I have to thank Jacob and his junior teammates for persuading me to come out of retirement – they rekindled my interest after a long period out of the game,” revealed Whitby senior.
Cricket has been a way of life for Brendan, who made his senior debut for the North Tamworth Cricket Club in third grade many summers ago.

“After my stint with Toombul I honestly thought I would never play again but the kids were keen to take up the sport and encouraged me all the way,” he explained.
“When we moved to Mackay, I joined the Magpies and looked after the Master Blasters team that included Jacob before guiding my other sons Thomas and Nicholas the following season,” quipped Brendan, who has coached the Magpies since Under 11s.
Young gun Jacob starred for the Cyclones last summer and gained valuable experience when selected to play for the Northern Kings in the Brisbane Premier League Under 14s Twenty-20 tournament.
There was no prouder person than his father when rising colt Jacob made his senior debut for the club in third grade at the tender age of thirteen.
“Jacob made a good fist of his promotion and we managed to bowl a few overs together and open the batting which makes me proud,” exclaimed Brendan.
      “To play sport with your kids is an exhilarating feeling that brings plenty of enjoyment and overall it has been a wonderful journey so far.
“Even better is being a part of the Magpies cricket family,” beamed the evergreen warrior.

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Outstanding father-son duo Brendan and Jacob Whitby steered the Mackay Magpies Cricket Club to premiership success in 2023-24

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The Mackay Aquatic Recreation Complex is playing host to some of Australia’s top Olympic swimming hopefuls, with huge economic benefits for our region.
Swimming Australia’s High Performance training camps have seen three elite squads travel to the Mackay region in their final hit out before the Australian Swimming Trials in Brisbane next month.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said it was fantastic to welcome the High Performance Camps to the Mackay ARC.
“These squads see our region and our facility as ideal for their preparations and it is our aim to encourage more and more camps to the ARC in the lead up to Brisbane 2032,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The swim camps we have hosted so far in 2024 have had an economic output of $304,000 to our region,” he said.
“This is a more than 400 per cent jump on 2023.
“It is our hope to have international teams from all different sports acclimatising to Queensland right here in Mackay as the Brisbane Olympics get closer.”
The camps currently utilising the Mackay ARC are from the South Australian Sports Institute (SASI), University of the Sunshine Coast USC Spartans Swimming and St Andrew’s Swim Club on the Sunshine Coast.
USC Spartans and Swimming Australia Hub Coach Michael Palfery said the Mackay ARC offered a first-class facility in a warm environment.
“A lot of southern teams are heading north during May, and the climate in Mackay is perfect, with a consistent temperature, sunshine and a calm, relaxed environment,” Palfery said.
“It’s important to be warm when doing high-intensity, race-suited work in training. We come here and we train, eat and sleep. So, environment is everything,” he said.
Butterfly specialist Matthew Temple, from SASI, said the team was fortunate to be using such a great facility.
“It’s great to come up with USC and train alongside some familiar faces who are competitors but also mates,” Temple said.
“The next three weeks of training will have me well-placed to do well at trials. I really enjoy coming to the smaller towns to train. I’m excited to be here,” he said.

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USC Spartans and South Australian Sports Institute High Performance Squads are
training at the Mackay ARC in the lead-up to the Australian Olympic Swimming Trials
in Brisbane in June

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixture results May 14, 2024:

Division 1:

Green (Tim Shehan, Lily Boland, Robbie Richards) d Red (George Camilleri, Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker) 6-5. Lily d Anne 8, -2, -4, 8, 11.

Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) d Purple (Emma Widdup, Duncan Treloar) 6-5. Duncan d Donna -5, 9, 7, 9.

White (Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown, Geoff Cowan) d Brown (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske) 7-4. Neil d Vince 4, -5, 8, -6, 10.

Black (Mick Ruhl, Daniel Warfield, Allan Robins) d Blue (Will VanDeKaa, Steven Whiting, Lee Brake) 6-5. Mick/Daniel d Steven/Will -5, -5, 10, 6, 5.

Division 2:

Gold (Steve Mathieson, Rohit Bansod, Ollie Hamelink) d Teal (Craig VanDeKaa, Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh) 8-3. Rohit d Peter -9, 10, 7, -7, 9.

Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro Premachandra, Mark Stam) d Cyan (Matt West, Trent Day, Leonie Patroni) 6-5. Trent d Niro 6, -7, -8, 5, 7.

Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) d Tan (Saisha Palod, Val Austin, Judy Zahn) 8-3. Saisha d Tiffany -7, -9, 9, 5, 5.

Grey (Doug Dungavell, John McGee, Kade Wright) d Lime (Anaya Reelh, Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) 8-3. Noreen d John 6, 5, -8, 5, 9.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures May 14, 2024:

Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, John McGee) drew Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall) 6-all. Doug d Pam 10, -10, 6, -6, 13.

Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Ibis (Andrea Nicholson, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) 7-5. Donna d Judy 5, -11, -6, 6, 6.

Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) d Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Marie Taylor) 7-5. Branko d Janice -9, 4, 7, -5, 5.

Division 2:

Hawks (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Kim Daffy) d Cockatoos (Kim Challender, Veronica Shepherd) 10-2. Kim d Veronica 10, -7, 11, 11.

Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Robyn Bushell, Ian Dodds) d Doves (Kim Daffy, Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba) 7-4. Iris d Ian 4, -12, -8, 8, 8.

Division 3:

Prawn (Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes, Glenda Dutton) drew Squid (Sharon Muller, Cheryl Aprato) 6-all. Sharon d Glenda 4, 5, -12, 2.

Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Nadine) d Bill Hey, Myles Dutton) 10-2. Cheryl/Nadine d Bill/Myles -9, 8, 8, 3.

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Anne Sheridan (pictured) had a tough battle against young up-and-comer Lily Boland, with Boland winning 11-9 in the fifth set. Photo: Charlie Payne

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In a sprint towards international glory, six athletes from the Mackay region are set to leap into action at the 2024 Oceania Athletics Championships in Suva, Fiji. These local stars are ready to vault over challenges and race against the region's best.
The 2024 Oceania Athletics Championships will take place from Tuesday, June 4th to Saturday, June 8th, at the National Stadium, HFC Bank Stadium. Suva, a seasoned host of regional athletic events including the 1990 and 2017 Area Championships and the 2016 Regional Championships, is poised to welcome athletes once again. Fiji was also slated to host the 2020 Regional Championships before the pandemic forced a cancellation.

We caught up with five of the athletes at the ARC as they put the finishing touches on their training preparation.

Mikayla Webb, 17
Mikayla Webb is poised to make her mark in the Under 18’s 100 and 200 metres events. With a personal best of 11.98 seconds for the 100 metres and 24.84 seconds for the 200 metres, Mikayla has been dedicated to running for seven years. "I love competing against other people," she shared, expressing her excitement and determination to bring home a medal from the international event.
Toby Rule, 16
Toby Rule will be showcasing his endurance in the 1500 metres, 3000 metres, and steeplechase. Having been involved in running for 7-8 years, Toby is ambitiously aiming for a sub-4 minute 1500 metres and a sub-8:30 minute 3000 metres. His ultimate dream is to compete in the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane. “I’d like to thank the people that got me here, my mum, dad, and my coaches throughout the years,” Toby expressed, highlighting his gratitude and determination to push himself to the limits.
Ngakau Ufton, 19
Competing in the 100 metres, 200 metres, 300 metres, and long jump, sprinter Ngakau Ufton has been running for three years. He aims to break the 11-second barrier in the 100 metres. "The best thing is that it’s just me on the track and I don’t have to worry about other people interfering," Ngakau said. His journey started in high school, inspired by Usain Bolt videos, and now he is ready to showcase his abilities on an international stage.
Kasey Mccahon, 20
Pole vaulter Kasey Mccahon is driven by the thrill and adrenaline rush of jumping high. Originally from Atherton Tablelands, Kasey switched from high jump to pole vaulting after an injury and has loved it ever since. With a personal best of 3.30 metres, she is excited about her first international competition. "It’ll be great," Kasey said, eager to see how high she can soar in Fiji.
Kayce Hoani-Vincent, 17
Inspired by her older brother, Kayce Hoani-Vincent has been pole vaulting for three years. She loves the thrill and the sensation of being in the air. With a personal best of 3.10 metres, Kayce is aiming to reach new heights in Fiji. Her dedication and passion for the sport are evident as she prepares to compete on the international stage.
The Championships will feature competitions in the Senior and Under 18 categories, with the Senior events being crucial for qualification for the Paris Olympic Games and future World Athletics Series Events. The Under 18 Championships will provide a premier competitive platform for younger athletes.
Following the successful debut of the Teams Challenge in 2022, the event will expand to include Under 16 and Under 20 age groups. This format will offer athletes from the highly popular Fiji Schools Championships an opportunity to compete internationally.
Oceania Athletics President Robin Sapong expressed enthusiasm, saying, "It's an amazing opportunity to return to Fiji for the Oceania Championships in 2024.
“With the growth of the Championships and the chances for athletes to secure their qualifying positions for Paris, Fiji will no doubt be a great host.
“The Teams Challenge will be exciting for Fiji school teams to test themselves against the best teams in the region."

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Last Saturday night, the McDonald’s Mackay Stadium was alive with excitement as the Mackay Meteors shot down the Northside Wizards in a thrilling 109-83 victory. With this slam-dunk performance, the Meteors extended their winning streak, setting the stage for a high-stakes Round 7 double-header on the road against the North Gold Coast Seahawks and Gold Coast.
Todd Blanchfield led the charge for the Meteors, scoring 25 points and grabbing 7 rebounds. Isaac White contributed significantly with 20 points and 7 rebounds, while Luca Yates added 14 points and 5 rebounds.
Meteors coach Joel Khalu said he was happy that the team were able to close out the game with a strong fourth quarter.
“Really please with that side of things, our defensive application through our scout was amazing, and it was probably our most polished performance of the season,” Khalu said.
He added that Aiden Krause was exceptional on defence and Todd Blanchfield brought high energy to the game with six three-pointers from beyond the arc.
“I think it was the third quarter where Toddy hit three threes and some of them were super tough shots but that’s just what he does and the team work hard to get those shots to him.”
In contrast, the Mackay Meteorettes faced a tough match against the Northside Wizards, suffering a 68-114 defeat. Despite the loss, Taylor Mole put up a standout performance with 25 points, 2 rebounds, and 3 steals. Nikita Van Wyk added 9 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 steals, while Sam Haiby chipped in with 8 points and 3 assists.
The Meteors' highlight package showcased their high-energy play and effective teamwork, a trend they aim to maintain in their upcoming matches. Meanwhile, the Meteorettes will look to regroup and bounce back from the challenging game against a formidable opponent.

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Action shots from the Meteors’ 109-83 victory over the Northside Wizards. Photo credit: Keiron Place Art & Photography

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Mackay Cutters’ enterprising women's rugby league team are on the cusp of BMD premiership glory.

In a huge fillip for the region, Marco Peters’ in-form charges have zoomed into this Saturday’s title decider to determine the champion Queensland club for 2024.

All roads lead to Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium where the Cutters square off with the courageous Norths Devils in what is shaping as a crackerjack contest.

Mackay will be chasing a unique women's championship double after the club captured the inaugural Harvey Norman Under 19s trophy last month with an 18-16 triumph over Brisbane Tigers.

The Cutters advanced to the BMD Grand Final by slamming Western Clydesdales 22-4 at BB Print Stadium after the Devils outclassed Burleigh Bears 36-12 at Brisbane’s Bishop Park.

A powerful second half showing by Mackay sent the Clydesdales crashing out of the title race and set up another showdown with the stout-hearted Devils.

The Cutters edged out Norths 26-22 when the teams last clashed a fortnight ago in Brisbane.

But coach Peters expects another torrid tussle with the Devils who led 18-0 against the Bears before staving off a second half challenge in last weekend’s semi-final.

The Clydesdales opened the scoring with a try to winger Georgia Sim after 13 minutes before second rower Bree Chester crashed over for a four-pointer that was converted by five eighth Kayla Shepherd to give the Cutters a 6-4 lead at the interval.

There was no stopping Mackay after the break with talented hooker Alisha Foord, fullback Krystal Blackwell and prop forward Essay Banu all grabbing tries to set up an emphatic win.

In the elusive Blackwell, wingers Libby Surha and Ebony Raftstrand-Smith, dynamic centre pairing Jasmine Peters and Shellie Long and halves Shepherd, Tahlulah Tillett and Pani Rupapere the Cutters have a back division with plenty of strike.

They are complemented by a tough and skilful forward pack led by Chester, Foord, Lily Peacock, Lyrech Mara, Shaniah Power, Lillian Yarrow and interchange bench featuring boom Queensland Under 19s playmaker Emily Bella, Sareka Mooka, Maddison Hegarty and the strong running Banu.

Star hooker Emma Manzelmann – on Origin duty with the  Queensland womens team – gives the Cutters tremendous depth along with the likes of second rower Elle Stitt, winger Montanah Best and premiership-winning Under 19s trio of half back Mersades Lawson, hooker Paityne Johns and centre Miah Powell.

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Photo credit: Mackay Cutters

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From exhilarating MTB trails to pulse-pounding kayak rides, picturesque trail runs and demanding road cycles, ZACH MACH proved to be the ultimate thrill for adrenaline enthusiasts. It was said to be an incredible weekend of adventure racing in the Mackay Pioneer Valley. The ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge offered just the right blend of mud, water, sun, and excitement for all participants.

RESULTS

ZACH MACH SOLO (18+)
   1. Mitch Nissen
   2. Hilary Bell
   3. Rod Le Coz

MINI MACH SOLO
   1. Archer Flanagan
   2. Nehemiah Oosthuizen
   3. Camden Brownsey

Stage 1 MTB Only
   1. Ethan Jansen
   2. Noel Garciano
   3. Keenan Jansen

Stage 2 Kayak Only
   1. Zara Richardson
   2. Colin Carmichael
   3. Jodi Elliott

Stage 3 Trail Run Only
   1. Hayden Neilsen
   2. Brad Fraser
   3. Trinity Donovan

Stage 4 Road Cycle Only
   1. Amanda Whitburn
   2. Aaron Daniel
   3. Caleb Caldwell

ZACH MACH Pair
   1. Sam Sam, Angus Palmer
   2. Linda Linda, Megan Wetherall
   3. Adam, Ella Chappell

MINI MACH Pair
   1. Oaklan, Kyle Marwood
   2. William, Tim Ffrost
   3. Hendrik, Lauren Bester

ZACH MACH Team
   1. Andrew, Archer Flanagan
   2. Luke, Jose Griffith
   3. Ross, Tess, Brendan, Michael Armstrong

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Off the back of the major announcement with Mackay Regional Council at Harrup Park, Century Cricket Competitions Mackay can now announce the eight franchises competing in the tournament this August.

The previously confirmed Great Barrier Reef Rays (QLD) will be joined by the City
Pirates (QLD), Coastal Marlins (QLD), Moreton Magic (QLD), Eastern

Comets (SA), Adelaide Rockets (SA), Spartans (SA) and Western Chargers (VIC).
Franchises have been working hard behind the scenes to get their pre-auction selections finalised. The first players have been recruited, with more to come, but the bar has already been set high with players who have represented their country, played in the Big Bash, held state contracts or even played county cricket in England.

City Pirates have confirmed that Sam Heazlett will be playing for them in Mackay this August. Heazlett was the special guest Kayo caller last year and managed to make 100 runs in the Century format. He brings a wealth of state and Big Bash experience, which is a great start for the Pirates.

“I’m very excited to be heading to Mackay for the Century Cricket Competition. I’ve had the pleasure of playing in Mackay many times now. The facilities are great and the locals love their cricket. This comp will be a great way to begin the season and challenge myself against high quality cricketers,” said Heazlett.

Former Bulls and current Big Bash hard hitting all-rounder James Bazley joins the Coastal Marlins for this season’s campaign. Known for bowling a heavy ball and hitting the ball nice and hard, Bazley will be looking to put on a show for the local Mackay crowd.

“I‘m looking forward to linking up with the Marlins in this year‘s Mackay Century Cricket Competition. Mackay is a great venue for cricket and it's at a perfect time of year to be playing good cricket leading into the summer,” said Bazley.

Current Peter Burge Medallist and all-round gun from Toombul District Cricket Club Preston White is locked and loaded for his fourth season with the Moreton Magic. White is a true franchise player and a solid start for the Magic.

Eastern Comets have locked in current joint winner of the Darren Lehmann Medal and Tea Tree Gully District Cricket Club gun Joe Gatting. Having had a stellar season in Adelaide, which culminated in winning SACA’s T20 player of the year, Gatting, a former county cricketer, is heading up to Mackay to show his skills with the Comets.

Hard hitting top order batsman Jake Winter is locked in for the newly announced Adelaide Rockets. Having played in Century Cricket Competitions in Brisbane and Adelaide over the past four years, Winter has dominated with his insane power hitting. A regular handful in the SACA grade competition with Glenelg District Cricket Club, Winter went on to debut for South Australia in the one-day format last year.

The Spartans have locked in Queensland Country star Andrew Phelps, a hard-hitting batter from Cairns and a member of the Queensland Brahmans this year. He is one of the many talented country cricketers that will look to play in Mackay this year and mix with players outside of his district. 

Former South Australian Red Back left arm spinner Joe Medew-Ewen is locked in for the Western Chargers. Medew-Ewen has some serious skills in the short form, brings experience from playing First Class Cricket and is currently one of the best spinners in Victoria with the Northcote District Cricket Club.

As previously announced, the Great Barrier Reef Rays welcome back former Australian and international T20 franchise star Ben Laughlin after a stellar tournament for the Rays who made it all the way to the final in their first year.

More pre-auction players will be announced in the coming weeks with teams locking in some very good players. With the calibre of these eight players, the competition is going to have some serious talent and be one mighty weekend of cricket in August.

Senior players from anywhere in the country, and around the world, can still nominate for the Mackay competition via the Century Cricket Competitions website. Nominations close 5pm on Wednesday 5 June.

Century Cricket Group is a privately owned cricket company co-founded by successful healthcare businessman Stuart Giles, Australian cricket great Ian Healy AO and world-renowned commentator Mark Nicholas, alongside cricket entrepreneurs and founders of the Australian Cricket Institute Nick Fitzpatrick and Joel Hamilton. The Group is creating a full ecosystem of cricket opportunities across competitions,  coaching clinics and training centres.

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Sam Heazlett hits a six for the Heat against the Renegades. Image source: Getty Images

James Bazley joins the Coastal Marlins for this season’s campaign. Image source: Adelaide Strikers

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The Woolworths Pick Fresh Play Fresh Netball Grants are back again for 2024, with local netball clubs and associations across Australia, who have a Woolworths NetSetGO centre, encouraged to apply to win a share of $100K to benefit young Aussie netballers.

As part of this, the popular $20K People’s Choice Award returns for the second year, spotlighting the club or association that receives the most votes, encouraging their local members and supporters to get involved.

The Grants have been designed to help local clubs and associations encourage young Aussie netballers to eat healthier and be more active. The funds will allow for improvements to facilities and equipment, subsidising registration fees, and purchasing healthy foods for their canteen.

Secretary of Mackay Netball, Jenny Moohin mentioned that they were very lucky to receive funding. This allowed them to offer a free NetSetGo program for kids aged five to ten.

“Mackay Netball was successful in receiving $8,000 from Woolworths,” jenny said.

“The program was able to be performed free of charge so that the children can come along, learn about netball and then they all got a shirt and we provided fresh fruit after each session so that they can be encouraged to eat healthy after training.

“It was fabulous to receive that money, a lot of children don’t get to participate in organised sport due to the cost, so this just broke that barrier down and we’re very lucky.”

Mackay Netball Association recently received $8,000 in funding to encourage young Aussie netballers to eat healthier and be more active. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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North Mackay Ladies celebrated our Lady President, Lidia McCarthy, at our 76th Club's Birthday. President Lidia was presented with a gift from the ladies by Vice President Hilary Jones-Rowan. 90 guests gathered in fine style with bowls, Raffles, Lunch and a Cent Sale, including Alan Cooney representing the Board of Management, General Manager, Steve Lancaster and special guest Ray McCarthy. Each Club in the District was represented and the District President, Margo Stanley, brought three of her committee members along.

Contributed By Helen Fleming 

The Set of Bowls donated by Bowlers Paradise was won by J McGarth of Airlie Beach

The cake donated by S Sommerfeld was cut by Lidia and Margo. Photos supplied

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A golden week at the Contract Bridge tables, with the first week of the Remembrance Pairs being played on Friday, while on Saturday ten teams vied for GNOT Gold Points. Team Conroy won Gold, with all participates receiving varying sprinkles of gold points.

Congratulations to Diane and Max Holewa who were each presented with the Australian Bridge Federation, “Gold Life Master” Certificate by President Noel. This is a “Golden” achievement of 750 Masterpoints gained from many games of bridge over many years.

Weekly Results
Monday 13 May 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell One Winner Green Points
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd
Sandra Ford / Griffin Bancroft
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
4th
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
5th
Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes
6th
Pamela Finger / Ming Ting
Tuesday Evening 14 May 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Alan Brown / Israel Hall
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
4th
Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan
5th
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
6th
Chris Meyers / Diane Stokes
Wednesday 15 May 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

3rd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait

4th
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
4th
Susan Wright / Bob Willis

Thursday 16 May 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
1st
Mick King / Patricia Garner

2nd
Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown
2nd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 17 May 2024 – Week 1 of 3 Remembrance Pairs – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild

2nd
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Victor Mason / Josie Crowley

3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
3rd
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

4th
Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole
4th
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

5th
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
5th
David Ting / Ming Ting

6th
Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix
6th
Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson

Saturday 18 May 2024 – 10 Team GNOT Gold Points

Team
Team Members
1st
Conroy
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy/ Noel Bugeia / Josie Crowley

2nd
Darley
Monica Darley / Ken Seaniger / Nancy Martin / Margaret Lane / Robert Carless

3rd
Goodchild
Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild / David Ting / Ming Ting

4th
5th
Morris
Griffo
Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch / Errol Morris / Lynne O’Neill
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill / Mick King / Patricia Garner

Diane and Max Holewa who were each presented with the Australian Bridge Federation, “Gold Life Master” Certificate by President Noel Bugeia

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Nearly forty runners and supporters had taken to the undulating streets of Mt Pleasant from the Gordon White Library carpark to tackle the annual Jo’s 70 Scenic Steps event, which encompassed the breathtaking vistas and peaks of Pollock and High Streets, North Mackay.

The event's namesake, Jo, had been severely distraught at the prospect of the run being removed from the calendar so the Club’s Calendar committee was prompted to include the event in the club’s program, aiming to accommodate its members as much as possible.

The course was very challenging but undeniably satisfying to complete. However, everyone loved the Pollock and High Streets, willingly choosing to train on the same hills every week, as many other runners and athletes in the region do on a regular basis. Runners have described it as “a top spot!”

There were several other competitors who enjoyed the out and back two loop 5km course, forging their path on the comparatively easier inclines but challenging nonetheless.

New runner, Corey Gould had a magnificent race, taking out the 10km in spectacular form ahead of Shane Donnollan, John Roe, Tim Dalton and first female, Glynis Forse.  Five-kilometre winners based on a handicapped start were Jo Hughes, Andrew Wallace, Alan Zamparutti, David Isbister, Geeta Ariani, Andrew Short, Teresa Hackney and Len Haworth.

Looking ahead, this Sunday’s The Grove Handicap 10km Trophy will commence from The Grove Tavern carpark on Andergrove Road, nestled under the shade of mango trees. All runners, whether members or not, are be required to check in with the timekeeper by 6:50 am at the very latest, with racing set to commence promptly at the advertised time of 7 am.

Contributed Janelle Tilse

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Glynis Forse hits the tape first for the girls in the 10km handicapped start for the annual Jo’s 70 Scenic Steps event.
Caption: 6447 – (left to right) Shane Donnollan, Craig Stevenson and Judy Zahn warm up for the running of Jo’s Scenic Steps 10km handicap start event. Photo credit: Janelle TIlse

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A small team of four Sinkers travelled to the Masters Swimming Australia National Championships, which was hot on the heels of the Masters Queensland State Championships.
Masters Swimming NT hosted the 47th annual Masters National Championships in Darwin from May 3 – 7, 2024.
Held in the heart of Australia’s Northern Territory, this fantastic event attracted some of the finest Master’s swimmers from around the country and overseas.
Pool events were held at the world-class Parap Pool, just five minutes from the CBD.
The open water swimming was held in the lagoon at Darwin’s beautiful Waterfront Precinct, located in the CBD and was the focus of a large contingent of swimmers over the 1.6 and 3.2 km events for the final day of swimming.
The Sinkers performed well with a brace of 11 medals for the team as well as some individual performances that challenged and improved personal best times.
Results
Nigel Dalton secured gold in the 200m backstroke, silver in the 800m free, 100 and 50m backstroke and bronze in the 400m freestyle rounding out a great pool performance. Nigel also secured bronze in the 3.2km open water swim on the final day.
Sue Dalton secured a silver medal in the 50m breaststroke and a bronze in the 100m breaststroke.
Geoff Robinson secured a bronze with a strong swim in the 400m freestyle in the pool and a silver in the 1.6km open water swim.
Dan Stampa secured a bronze in the 400m individual medley and enjoyed a strong open water swim in the 3.2km event placing 5TH in his age group.
The club looks forward to the 2025 National Championship scheduled for April 8 - 12 at the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre with planning already underway. To swim at this, or the Queensland Championships, swimmers are required to be a part of a master swimming club.
While only a small team, the Sinkers Managed to place 35th out of 88 teams in an enjoyable and well-run national event.
And, as with other events, the Sinkers managed to enjoy the local visitor highlights including the “Cage of Death” at the Crocosaurus Cove, Darwin highlights tours of the RFDS and Bombing of Darwin centre, Tunnel tour and the popular Mindil Beach Markets sunset and food stalls. A tour to Litchfield National Park and an exciting river tour with the top ends famous “Jumping Crocs” was enough to discourage any local non-pool swims.

Join The Sinkers At Whitehaven
The North Mackay Sinkers in conjunction with Masters Swimming Queensland are hosting an open water swim at Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island. The event is scheduled for Sunday 6th October this year and is just over four months away with planning well advanced. It is a limited entry swim (150) and will open to registered masters swimmers followed by a second release for our many keen guest swimmers. The initial registration is anticipated to be mid to late June following the finalisation of permits and authorities to conduct the swim. Distances on offer will be 1 and 2km and include transport to and from the island, lunch, a great swim and some free time to explore this iconic beach.
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More details to follow in June.
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Contributed by Dan Stampa

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Robyn Richards of the Sunshine Coast (Former Sinker) starting the 200m freestyle heat
Some of the Qld team, spot a Sinker!
Nigel Dalton starting the 50m backstroke
Dan Stampa at the finish of the 400m free
Geoff Robinson after the 200m freestyle heat

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Mackay Cutters women’s rugby league team have taken a giant step towards claiming the 2024 BMD Women's Premiership.

The well-drilled Cutters are the competition’s newly crowned minor premiers after toppling second-placed Norths Devils 26-22 in a cracking contest last Sunday at Brisbane’s Bishop Park.

Marco Peters’ Mackay warriors went into the match with the minor title in the bag, but tuned up for the finals series with an impressive victory over the depleted Devils in an absorbing tussle.

The Cutters are expected to play host to the fourth-placed Western Clydesdales in finals action this weekend while the Devils will square off with third-ranked Burleigh Bears.

Mackay jumped to an early 10-0 lead following tries by hooker Alisha Foord and star centre Jasmine Peters plus a Kayla Shepherd conversion before the Devils hit back with tries to five-eighth Georgia Hannaway and centre Rebecca Davidson and an Emily Vievers goal to lock the scores 10-all at the interval.

The Cutters drew first blood after the break when interchange prop and North Queensland product Sareka Mooka crashed over to nab a converted try and give the minor premiers a six-point advantage.

When prop Lyrech Mara and number nine Foord crossed for further tries in the space of nine minutes, the Mackay girls had established a handy 26-14 lead.
Norths rallied in the second half with flying winger Denyce Perham scooting over for a try double before Davidson claimed a second with two minutes left on the clock.
Mackay staved off the late challenge and got into the finals series brimming with confidence.

A delighted Peters quipped post-match, “That was really important to get a win and a bit of momentum for the finals.”

“We want to hold the momentum as long as we can” he declared.

MEANWHILE there was no joy for the Cutters in Hostplus Cup action after suffering a 28-12 loss to the Burleigh Bears at Whitsundays Sports Park at Airlie Beach.
The table-topping Bears proved they are a genuine force by securing their seventh win from nine fixtures with a powerhouse second-half performance.

Burleigh led 8-6 at the break after a gripping first stanza.

They stunned Mackay with early tries to wingers Mitch Watson and Josiah Karapani after seven minutes before Cutters winger Josh Smith crossed on the brink of halftime with five-eighth Riley Dean adding the extras.

Karapani nabbed a second try straight after lemons that was converted by half-back Guy Hamilton for a 14-6 lead – only for Cutters’ livewire fullback Raydan Burns to bridge the gap with a fine try soon after.

Burleigh centre Kea Pere posted four-pointers in the 54th and 75th minutes and forward Nick O’Meley in the dying moments to seal a resounding victory.

The sixth-ranked Cutters face another tough test this Saturday when they host fourth-placed Northern Pride at BB Print Stadium at 6pm.

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The Mackay Cutters lost to the Burleigh Bears 28-12 in the Hostplus Cup. Photo source: Mackay Cutters

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Mackay Brothers have preserved their unbeaten status in the 2024 Northern Region Mackay & District Rugby League A Grade competition.

The high-flying Leprechauns recorded their fourth successive victory in as many rounds after edging out the tenacious Souths Sharks 18-10 last Saturday at Shark Park.

Dashing fullback Tyrese Parter, clever halfback Brad Campbell and wily hooker Daniel Kelly posted tries for Brothers with centre Rydge Smith potting three conversions in a hard-fought contest.

Sharks prop Tyler O’Brien and talented number seven Henri Stocks kept their side in the mix with determined tries.

Parter, a gifted custodian who is a development player in Michael Comerford’s extended Mackay Cutters first-grade squad, sparked the Leprechauns with his sharp running and tricky step.

Brothers remain the only undefeated side on eight points in front of Mackay Magpies and Moranbah Miners, both on six points ahead of Souths, Sarina Crocodiles and Wests Tigers on four points.

MACKAY Magpies trounced Whitsunday Brahmans 50-12 last Saturday at Sologinkin Oval with fullback Andrew Borg and crack centre Maika Tudravu the standouts.

Borg compiled a personal tally of 14 points with two tries and three goals while the power running Tudravu crossed for three of the Magpies’ eleven tries with his pace and strength.

Smart hooker Kyle Barnwell (2), winger Sebastyan Jack, five-eighth Corey Shepherd and centre Joshua Kilpatrick also nabbed four-pointers in the Magpies rout.
Moranbah Miners skittled Wests Tigers 36-12 last Sunday at Darryl Bourke Oval to move into a share of second spot on the competition table.

The Miners’ gun centre pairing of Mark Rosendale and Steven Stafford engineered the victory with strong games, both collecting crucial tries along with prop Raiden Fonoti and winger Dylan Womal.

Sarina Crocodiles thumped the Carltons Devils 66-10 last Sunday in a try fest at Ray Edwards Oval.

The Crocodiles overpowered the Devils – running in thirteen tries with Quintel Wailu (3) and fullback Zane McKellar (2) scoring five between themselves in a dazzling display.

Twenty-four-year-old Wailu is a talented hooker in the Cutters Development system with the guile and passing skills to play Hostplus Cup.

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Another fantastic weekend of bowls was had at Mackay City Bowls Club on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th May. The ladies’ club once again made both days highly enjoyable starting with Cath’s scones and finishing with an array of sweet tastes. All teams ‘laboured’ on the green in great camaraderie with the following teams being successful.

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First place winners on day 1: Pauline Turchet, Jean Campbell, Janette Dark, Cath Davis
First place winners on day 2: Monique Pershouse, Bruce Eaton, Anna Knight, Pauline Turchet. Images supplied

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Things are now back to normal at the club, after the Barrier Reef Congress last weekend.
We would like to thank all our sponsors who supported us to put on the Barrier Reef Congress - Mackay Regional Council, Dalrymple Bay, TBIB, Paul Lavings, North Marine, SH Tait & Co, Officeworks, Mackay and Whitsunday Life newspaper and Mackay Tourism.
Friend of the club, Maria Setiyawan headed back to Brisbane after lots of bridge, laughter and catching up with old friends at the bridge table on her trip.
Despite adversaries at the table, many great friendships can be made playing bridge. The club is friendly and encouraging of players new to the game and the Mackay area.

Weekly Results
Tuesday Evening 7 May 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Faith Hutchinson / Shirley Casey
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Maria Setiyawan

2nd
Mick King / Richard Wix
2nd
Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris

3rd
Annette Howe / Vicki Howard
3rd
Errol Morris / Lyn O’Neill

Wednesday 8 May 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd
Peter Karol / Joanne Crockford
2nd
Diane Stokes / Geoff Cowan

3rd
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
3rd
Terrence Sheedy / Griffin Bancroft

4th
Frances Brown / Maria Setiyawan
4th
Shelley Lewis / Karen Cadwell

Thursday 9 May 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd
Mick King / Patricia Garner
3rd
Marilyn Wilson-Nicol / Griffin Bancroft
4th
Ann Whitmore / Richard Wix
Friday 10 May 2024 – Week 9 of 24 Nation Wide Pairs – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
1st
Richard Wix / Janine Rodgers

2nd
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Christine Nice / Maria Setiyawan

3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Mick King
3rd
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore

4th
Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix
4th
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger

Saturday 11 May 2024 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Ming Ting / David Ting
1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2nd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd
Mick King / Julie O’Neill

3rd
Sandra Morris / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Margaret Lane / Anne Lutz

4th
Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix
4th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

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Mackay Bridge players relaxing after a competitive day of bridge. Image supplied

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Mackay Rowing Club is basking in the glow of success as its members make waves at the National Rowing Championships in Tasmania. With a display of skill and determination, four of the club's athletes have given it their all at the prestigious Lake Barrington International Rowing Course. Richard McGrath, Therese Clancy, Jane Deguara, and Michael Wolhfahrt demonstrated exceptional teamwork and prowess as they powered through the waters.
Teaming up with Pinerivers Rowing Club, Mackay's rowers secured a victory in the Ladies G quad event, claiming the coveted gold medal.
In the Ladies G Double event, they clinched the silver medal, showcasing their versatility and skill, and in the Women's F Double event, they seized another gold medal with Riverway Rowing Club, the ladies reaffirming their dominance on the water.
But the accolades don't end there. Mackay Rowing Club had another reason to celebrate, as Therese Clancy emerged as a National Masters Rowing Champion. With a stellar performance in the Ladies Lightweight G Single event, Clancy clinched the gold medal, further solidifying her status as a formidable force in masters rowing.
This triumphant journey follows the club's remarkable success at the State Masters Championships at Lake Wyaralong, where the quartet amassed an impressive tally of 18 medals. With each stroke and each race, Mackay Rowing Club continues to raise the bar and showcase the strength and talent of its athletes.

National Masters Rowing Champion 2024 Ladies Light Weight G Single, Therese Clancy

Therese (Mackay) and Jackie (Riverway) win gold in the Women’s F Double

Therese and Jane from Mackay win silver in the Ladies G Double

Mackay and Pinerivers joined forces to win gold in the Ladies G Quad

State Championships silver medal, Men's Master E Quad, Mackay and Tablelands, Locklan, Mick, Richard, Doug

The Mackay rowing squad at the State Championships, winning 18 medals between them. Photos supplied

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixture results May 7, 2024:

Division 1:

Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) d Green (Lily Boland, Robbie Richards) 7-4. Donna d Robbie -9, 6, -10, 10, 9.

Brown (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske) d Purple (Emma Widdup, Tony Bowman, Duncan Treloar) 8-3. Barry d Emma -9, 8, -5, 10, 8.

White (Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) d Blue (Will VanDeKaa, Steven Whiting, Lee Brake) 7-4. Steven d Neil 13, 5, -7, -3, 10.

Black (Goncalo Serra, Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) d Red (George Camilleri, Jason Hodda, Graeme Walker) 9-2. Ishan d George -13, -10, 7, 9, 9.

Division 2:

Gold (Geoff Cowan, Rohit Bansod, Ollie Hamelink) d Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro, David Symons) d 6-5. Nehmat d Ollie -8, -5, 10, 13, 8.

Cyan (Matt West, Trent Day, Leonie Patroni) d Tan (Ishara, Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo) 7-4. Trent d Jye 9, -6, -7, 8, 7.

Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) d Lime (Anaya Reelh, Simon Hogan, Daniel Warfield) 7-4. Tiffany d Anaya 10, -10, 2, -8, 9.

Grey (Doug Dungavell, Adrian Marsh, Kade Wright) d Teal (Craig VanDeKaa, Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh) 7-4. Aarnav d Kade 9, -9, -7, 9, 4.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures May 7, 2024:

Division 1:

Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) d Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) 7-5. Donna d Steve -9, 4, 7, -12, 7.

Ibis (Tony Bowman, Andrea Nicholson, Judy Zahn) d Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall) 10-2. Andrea d Doug -9, -9, 8, 7, 9.

Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce, John McGee) d Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Marie Taylor) 8-4. George d Charlie -4, 8, -6, 9, 9.

Division 2:

Cockatoos (Kim Challender, Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) drew Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Robyn Bushell, Frank Caruana) 6-all. Judi d Veronica -11, 8, 11, 13, 11.

Doves (Louise Gould, Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba) d Magpies (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Kim Daffy) 8-4. Fred d Kim -12, -7, 10, 5, 5.

Division 3:

Lobster (Cheryl Pearson, Bill Hey, Thelma Caruana) d Prawn (Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes, Glenda Dutton) 7-5. Glenda d Bill 7, -4, 5, -6, 10.

Crab (Pam Keune, Myles Dutton, Josie Davis) d Squid (Sharon Muller, Cheryl Aprato) 9-3. Pam/Josie d Sharon/Cheryl -6, 8, 13, 5.
………………………………………………………………………………….
Looping Lily Wins Trio Of Titles In Townsville
Mackay players came home with outstanding results from the Townsville Open table tennis championships.
Emma Widdup and her daughter Lily Boland led the way with five titles between them, while young Remy Zhan won a title in his first tournament.
Emma won the women's open singles and the over 50 women's, while Lily won the 1100 singles, U19 and U17 girls.
Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Mackay’s Lily Boland in action at Townsville, where she won three titles

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It was a quieter week at the Mackay Contract Bridge Club last week as the club held the Barrier Reef Congress 2024. Members transported tables, chairs, boards, welcome bags and more to 500 Pavilion Mackay Showgrounds in preparation for the Barrier Reef Congress.

Members cooked multitudes of biscuits, set up tables, covered windows from the sun and made sure all preparations were completed in time for the cards to start. Convener Diane Morgan has worked tirelessly for months to ensure the event was a success.

President of the Australian Bridge Federation, Allison Stralow shared her thoughts on the congress, after flying to the region from Perth, WA specifically to attend the four-day event.

“I flew over for this tournament, and I’ll be playing with the manager of the Queensland Bridge Association, Kim Ellaway,” Ms Stralow said.

“I’ve played the last three barrier reefs but this is my first visit to Mackay so I’m very excited, It’s absolutely beautiful and much greener than Western Australia at the moment.

“I just want to thank the mayor for his opening and all the support that businesses and people in Mackay have given to this tournament, it’s just wonderful to see the local community get behind bridge. “

A great weekend was had by all who attended from over Australia and New Zealand. Congratulations to the ten Mackay players who placed in the event in one or more sections.

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Weekly Results

Monday 29 April2024 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
4th
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
5th
Sandy Patterson / Geoff Cowan
6th
Anne Lutz / Diane Cox
Tuesday Evening 30 April 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janet Hansen / Janelle Conroy
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Ken Seaniger

2nd
Frances Brown / Alan Brown
2nd
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

3rd
Marilyn Wilson-Nicol / Griff Bancroft
3rd
Patrica Garner / Mick King

4th
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
4th
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

Wednesday 1 May 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

2nd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd
Terrence Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

3rd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Joy Block / Geoff Cowan

4th
Ted Cullinan / Geoff Taylor
4th
Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson

5th
Carmel Brown / Patrick Rasmussen
5th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole

BARRIER REEF CONGRESS 2024 MACKAY RESULTS
Barrier Reef Walk Ins
1st
Denise O’Regan & Kay Webber
2nd
Diane & Max Holewa (Mackay)
3rd
Lesley Fraser & Rick Gryg

Eric Parsons Open Pairs
1st
Sue Ingham & Michael Courtney
2nd
Lyn & Malcolm Carter
3rd
Mike Boecke & Simon Hinge

Barrier Reef Restricted Pairs
1st
Kate Gargan & Patricia Ottone
2nd
Melissa Preesley & Jane Gryg
3rd
Mary & Ian Cruickshank (Mackay)

Barrier Reef Novice Pairs
1st
Debbie Carol & Jacinta Lee
2nd
Sandy Patterson & Geoff Cowan (Mackay)
3rd
Joy Brunette & Linda Pridy (Mackay & Bowen)

John Brockwell Open Teams

Team
Players
1st
Whitaker
Duncan Badley / Paula Boughey / Ashley Back / Fred Whitaker
2nd
Reid
Lauren Morgan / Alex Goss / Jasmine Skeate / Jeremy Reid
3rd
Thomson
Leight Foran / Theo Mangos / Cathryn Herden / Matthew Thomson

Barrier Reef 300 Teams

Team
Players
1st
Cruickshank
Mary & Ian Cruickshank (Mackay) / Jan Van Riel / Sally Foster
2nd
Dudurovic
Rex Meadowcroft / Kathleen Clifford / Althea Crowley / Jacqui Dudurovic
3rd
Harris
Jan Harris / Ming Ting / David Ting (Mackay) Maria Setiyawan

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The 500 Pavilion was filled with smiles and camaraderie as participants from all around Australia and New Zealand gathered in Mackay for a four-day congress of Bridge.

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Kim Ellaway, Allison Stralow, Noel Bugeia and Richard Ward.

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The past weekend hosted the Prestige Fours event at the Mackay Bowling Club, where skilled bowlers from the Mackay district competed for the title.

In the final saw Wayne Handley Team of Cooper Whitestyles, Clint Vassie and Jason McMullen play against Jason Little, Trevor Kelly, Dave Maskell and Dave Pinkard with the winner going to Wayne Team.

Presige Fours Carnival Results:

Division 1 Winners Jason Mc Mullen, Cooper Whitestyles, Clint Vassie, Wayne
Handley
Division 1 Runners up:
Lason Little, Trevor Kelly, Dave Maskell, Dave Pinkard.
Division 2 Winners:
Doug Wootton, Les Rogers. Grant Edmonds, Bruce Bridger.
Division 2 Runners up:
Mitch Wrights, Ash Warland, Jason Wrights, Shane Spann.
Division 3 Winners:
BRAD Robertson, Den Croker, Joe Croker, Brian Williams.
Division 3 Runner Up:
Rob Turner, Andrew Butler, Bob Spees, Tony Whitehorn.
This weekend Club Championship Men's A Fours will be played over two days
starting 9am on Saturday 11th May
Men's Pennant starts on Saturday 18th May with three double headers in a row.
Tuesday Men's Triples results (13)
Winners of Winners:
G. Gibbs, W Herewini, M. D'Alessio
Winner of Losers:
A. Nayler, B. Jenner, P. Taffee.
Thursday Scroungers:
Joe Croker def Steve Cassidy 18-6
Ladies Ch/Ch Singles
Karina Dunn def E. Clements

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Contributed By Mike Irving

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Bowlers celebrate their victory at the Prestige Fours event, showcasing skill and camaraderie on the greens. Image supplied

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After a long-anticipated wait and numerous training sessions, the Masters Queensland State Championship was attended by 12 North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club Members.
This year’s State Championships event was delivered at the prestigious Brisbane Aquatic Centre in Chandler across four days of exhilarating swimming action, that took place from Thursday 18 April to Sunday 21 April 2024.
The Championships offered a wide range of events, spanning from 25m to 800m, with no event limits, ensuring there’s something for every swimmer. Currently no qualifying times are in place for these events allowing swimmers of various abilities to select and swim in favoured events. This was a timed final event with no heats with swimmers only common ground being a similar time, so heats are well seeded and include generally both men and women of various ages but similar capabilities and is all abilities. (Includes Multiclass)
Shorter distances were divided into male and female to provide direct competition for the first time at State Championships and proved to be very popular.
Regardless if members were seasoned swimmers or just looking to join in on the fun, all members participated in the racing, relays, and camaraderie. Chandler offers an unforgettable aquatic experience with precise AOE timing, a large electronic display that features reaction time, lap intervals and a final displayed result sorted to position that’s instantly visible in the pool for competitors.
On the medal front many Sinkers graced the podium in multiple events with a group total of 44 medals combined across individual and relay events. The club moved into 8th place on the final day of competition from over 50 clubs in what was a strong showing from Mackay. The large club award from last year was relinquished as some clubs were well represented and able to accumulate the points to take both overall and points per member categories.
The 2024 Championships were a well-run event that featured swimmers from around Australia and overseas and delivered 303 records broken at the event. These included 80 Australian, 199 Queensland, 2 Tasmanian, 6 Victorian and 16 New South Wales records tumbling as the event progressed.
The Championships had the Sinkers swimming well with many individual swimmers posting personal best times and placing well across the board. The event though was memorable for its team focus and support by members for all competitors. Swimmers’ comments include;
“My triumph was being here”
“Had a ball every swim and enjoyed the competition and friendship”
“They say swimming is an individual sport but not once did I feel like I was swimming alone over the four days. The cheering from the grandstands, pool deck support and sportsmanship makes me proud to be a part of this club.”
In addition to the swimming our team also hit some of the city highlights including the Storey Bridge Climb, Eat Street and Brisbane River tours to mention a few and thoroughly enjoyed the championships and all that Brisbane has to offer.
The Club has 4 swimmers heading to Darwin for the Masters Swimming Australia National Championships with both pool and open water swimming available 3 – 7 May 2024.
The club is now entering its “Winter” program with Mondays and Wednesdays at the Memorial Pool (5.30-6.30pm). Our regular Social Saturday swim is also at the Memorial from 8-9am. New members welcome.
For More information, email nthmkysinkers@gmail.com or phone 0413 805 156
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Contributed By Dan Stampa

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North Mackay Sinkers made a splash at the Queensland Masters State Championships
Sinkers State Group Photo
Nomi underwater
Team Sinkers. Images supplied

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Mackay Cutters’ trump card Emma Manzelmann has reached another milestone in her burgeoning rugby league career.

The crafty hooker is set to earn a slice of history after gaining selection in the Queensland Maroons Origin squad for the opening match of the interstate women's series against NSW on Thursday, May 16 at Suncorp Stadium.

Both the Blues and Maroons will contest a three-match Origin series this year for the first time and the durable number nine is determined to consolidate a spot in the star-studded Queensland lineup.

Manzelmann missed the Cutters’ dramatic 22-all draw with Brisbane Tigers in last Saturday’s Hostplus Cup-BMD Women's Premiership double header at BB Print Stadium but is ready to serve the Maroons in their quest for Origin glory.

Premiership pacesetters Mackay had to fight tooth and nail in the women's clash to salvage a point – nabbing two converted tries inside the final quarter to cap a spirited comeback.

The Tigers proved a thorn with their bustling defence and led for most of the match before Cutters’ hooker Alisha Foord and prop Lyrech Mara crashed over for second-half tries that were converted by five-eighth Kayla Shepherd.

Earlier the Tigers dominated the opening stanza and led 12-0 at the interval following tries by winger Melita Hicks and hooker Isabella Satui and two goals by five-eighth Akira Kelly.

Mackay bounced back after the break with dashing centre Jasmine Peters crossing twice in the space of three minutes before Tigers’ half-back India Seeto and the elusive Hicks scored quick four-pointers to give the visitors a 22-10 lead.

In the main game Brisbane Tigers won the field position battle to  post an impressive 24-12 triumph over the second-placed Cutters in Hostplus Cup.

Led by skilful half back Ryley Jacks, experienced NRL forward Chris McQueen and rugged prop Tristan Powell, the Tigers finished strongly with forward Jack Natapu and hooker Caleb Daunt grabbing crucial tries to seal a deserved victory.

The visitors led 8-0 at the break following an early converted try by centre Saimone Ahomana and a Jack Miers penalty goal after 26 minutes.

Mackay’s livewire fullback Rayden Burns crossed straight after the interval with half-back and skipper Riley Dean converting before Jacks extended his side’s lead to 12-6 by scoring the Tigers' second try.

Barnstorming prop Brandon Russell kept the Cutters in the hunt when he burst over to score a converted try in the 54th minute to level the scores.

A disappointed Dean was proud of Mackay’s overall defensive effort but felt his side failed to execute the game plan and didn’t nail down their opportunities.

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Mackay Cutters’ BMD Premiership Captain, Emma Manzelmann has been selected in the Queensland Maroons squad for Game 1 of State of Origin

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Over the weekend, spanning from Saturday, May 4 to Monday, May 6, the hotly contested Foley Shield tournament took place. Each day featured two games, where women’s and men’s teams from Mackay, Townsville, and Far North Queensland competed for the Foley Shield title. Selections for the Queensland Country Team were made based on performances during this weekend's matches.
Mackay Regional Mayor, Greg Williamson expressed the importance of not only having the Foley Shield in Mackay for local rugby enthusiasts, but also to show young players, both male and female, the foundation of Rugby League over the years.
“The Foley Shield is part of the trophy mechanisms that grew Rugby League in our region, so this is just absolutely outstanding to have it here in Mackay,” Mayor Williamson said.
As for the results, Townsville emerged victorious in both the men's and women's divisions of the XXXX Foley Shield, with the men's team securing a nail-biting win based on try countback. In a tense showdown at BB Print Stadium, Townsville, Cairns, and Mackay battled fiercely for the men's title.
The home side, Mackay, initially held the advantage, leading 22-8 midway through the second half. However, Townsville staged a remarkable comeback, with fullback Lennix Tovo's try offering hope before Christian Gale's crucial score secured the win in the 72nd minute. The sideline confusion turned to elation for the Matt Bowen-coached Townsville team, with prop Faron Morris describing the experience as nerve-wracking yet immensely gratifying.
Reflecting on the victory, Morris emphasised the significance of reclaiming the Foley Shield for Townsville, attributing the triumph to a collective effort and a determination to honour the shield's rich history while forging their own legacy. He also praised Townsville's women for their back-to-back titles and acknowledged their influence in motivating the men's team.
In the women's division, Townsville dominated with a 24-8 win over Mackay, showcasing resilience and teamwork to overcome a determined opponent. Hooker Mateeka Neilson highlighted the team's belief in each other and their commitment to disciplined defence as key factors in their success.
Individual accolades were also celebrated, with Ataliah Love and Marmin Barba of Mackay Sea Eagles earning women's and men's player of the carnival honours respectively. Looking ahead, the XXXX Foley Shield carnival is set to return to its traditional home in Townsville in 2025, promising continued excitement and competition in the years to come. Overall, Townsville's triumphs in both divisions underscored the region's depth of talent and the enduring spirit of rugby league in North Queensland.

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Results - XXXX Foley Shield
Men
Cairns 28 def Mackay 24
Marmin Barba wowed the home crowd with a hat-trick before Cairns mounted a spirited comeback, taking advantage of their opponent losing a man to the sin bin in the final 10 minutes. Fullback Lachlan Biondi-Odo scored the match winner in the 75th minute.
Townsville 22 def Cairns 18
Townsville dominated field position for much of the game and thwarted Cairns' last-tackle options with desperate defence to sneak away with a five-tries-to-three victory.
Mackay 22 def Townsville 18
*Townsville awarded the 2024 XXXX Foley Shield on a try countback (Townsville 9, Cairns 8, Mackay 8)
Women
Mackay 28 def Cairns 0
Melody Tass scored a hat-trick in a commanding victory.
Townsville 40 def Cairns 0
Townsville centre Gagie Mackie Namok and lock Jordii Mahendrarajah scored doubles as Cairns struggled to contain a rampact pack in the daytime heat.
Townsville 24 def Mackay 8
*Townsville wins the XXXX Foley Shield

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Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson announced the official Foley Shield event a few days prior to the highly-anticipated game. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

Mackay held a 22-8 lead after 42 minutes in front of their home crowd. Photo: Marty Strecker

Mackay started strongly against Townsville in the women's match on Monday. Photo: Marty Strecker

XXXX Foley Shield 2024. Townsville was awarded the men's competition on a try countback. Photo: Marty Strecker

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures April 30, 2024:

Division 1:

Brown (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske) d Blue (Steven Whiting, Lee Brake, Will VanDeKaa) 6-5. Steven d Vince -8, -7, 4, 4, 16.

Red (Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker, George Camilleri) d Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) 10-1. Geoff d George 7, -5, -5, 3, 4.

White (Andrew McHugh, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) d Purple (Duncan Treloar, Emma Widdup, Tony Bowman) 6-5. Mark d Duncan -9, -6, 5, 4, 9.

Black (Mick Ruhl, Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) d Green (Leo Gilbert, Robbie Richards, Daniel Warfield) 8-3. Leo d Ishan -7, 4, -3, 6, 10.

Division 2:

Lime (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen, Anaya Reelh) d Tan (Saisha Palod, Jye Callander, Val Austin) 6-5. Simon d Jye -7, 4, 7, 8.

Teal (Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh, Craig VanDeKaa) d Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro, Mark Stam) 6-5. Niro d Peter -8, -13, 8, 8, 6.

Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) d Cyan (Leonie Patroni, Matt West, Trent Day) 6-5. Trent d YiLin -5, 7, 10, 11.

Grey (Doug Dungavell, Misha Palod, Kade Wright) d Gold (Ollie Hamelink, Steve Mathieson, David Symons) 6-5. Steve d Doug -5, -6, 9, 6, 10.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures April 30, 2024:

Division 1:

Plovers (Delma Knight, Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall) drew Egrets (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) 6-all. Doug d Donna 8, 7, -9, -2, 7.

Hawks (George Camilleri, Pam Joyce) d Owls (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Coral Morgan) 6-5. George d Steve 9, -6, -10, 9, 6.

Parrots (Janice Kent, Charlie Payne, Marie Taylor) d Ibis (Tony Bowman, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn) 7-5. Janice d Tony 17, 7, -1, -6, 9.

Division 2:

Pelicans (Judi Hicks, Robyn Bushell) d Magpies (Kim Daffy) 7-1. Kim d Judi 8, -15, -12, 9, 2.

Cockatoos (Kim Daffy, Veronica Shepherd, Gloria Vella) d Doves (Louise Gould, Fred Saliba) 7-3. Gloria d Fred 5, -7, -6, 10, 8.

Division 3:

Squid (Allison Day, Cheryl Aprato) drew Lobster (Tony Vella, Bill Hey) 5-all. Bill d Cheryl 6, -3, 7, -9, 9.

Crab (Pam Keune, Myles Dutton, Josie Davis) drew Prawn (Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes, Glenda Dutton) 6-all. Pam d Madge -11, 1, -11, 6, 8.
 

Supplied by Charlie Payne 

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Caption: Janice Kent
Caption: Tony Bowman

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Century Cricket Competitions have secured a three-year deal with the Mackay Regional Council to bring its hugely successful independent competition to North Queensland.

Century Cricket Group Chair Stuart Giles said that “Since their inception, Century Cricket’s Senior Competitions have been about showcasing talent.

“To be able to bring our competition to Great Barrier Reef Arena as a world class cricket stadium and not only continue to elevate our on-field competition, but to also showcase one of the most stunning tourist regions in Australia to our team owners, sponsors, players and supporters, is exceptionally exciting,” he added.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson announced that Mackay was the perfect location to host the Century Cricket competitions.

“We are pleased to support this event through our Invest Mackay Events and Conferences Attraction program, which is designed to bring sporting, cultural and commercial events to our region,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We expect these tournaments to draw a big crowd and we’re excited to showcase the Great Barrier Reef Arena, a first-class facility for players and spectators, as we cheer on our very own team, the Great Barrier Reef Rays,” he said.

“The weather in Mackay in August is fantastic for cricket and we look forward to welcoming some of the best national and international cricketers to our region.”

From 2024-2026, the national competition will see eight teams participate in a weekend-long senior competition as they play for a share in an $80,000 prize pool.

There will be representation in Mackay of teams from all three states that currently host Century Cricket Competitions; four teams from Queensland, three teams from South Australia and one team from Victoria.

Century Cricket Group Regional Executive Director Nick Fitzpatrick spoke on the future, with plans “to expand and invite other teams from other states and cities as the Century Cricket Competitions continue to roll out around the country in future years.”

Each franchise will pre-select six players to kick start their squad selection with the remaining six players to be picked at auction in Brisbane on Friday 7 June.

One of the teams joining the Mackay competition is the Great Barrier Reef Rays with former Australian international T20 bowler Ben Laughlin committed to playing for them after a stellar performance in last year’s senior competition in Brisbane.

The competition will run from 2 – 4 August and again follow the Century playing format, which was inspired by The Hundred in the UK; a concept that sees senior players step away from the traditional T20 format and compete in fast paced 100-ball innings featuring five-ball overs and far less changes of ends.

Senior players from anywhere in the country, and around the world, can nominate for the Mackay competition. Nominations are now open via the Century Cricket Competitions website.

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Left to right, Century Cricket Group Regional Executive Director Joel Hamilton, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park Sports Development & Facilities Manager Luke Kennedy and Great Barrier Reef Arena and Harrup Park Chair Terry Doolan. Photo Credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Congratulations to City Bowls Club on winning the prestigious Dr Williams’ Shield at the weekend. City defeated Seaforth, Souths Suburban and Pioneer Valley on their way to the final against North Mackay.
City’s last win in the Shield, which they have hosted for 68 years, was in 2008.

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Back row: Greg Peno, Joe Taylor, Ben Hall, Dave McKnight, Bruce Eaton, Gerry Bogart, Dennis Fredrickson, Jeff Neeve, Vince McSherry, Tony Connor, Sean Dolan
Front row: Warren Sturgeon, Paul McKay. Image Supplied

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Another exciting bowls event from the Ladies Section at North Mackay Bowls Club. The Annual Symons Shield was held at Northern Beaches Bowls Club with nine Clubs competing. The finalists were decided after some nail biting finishes – Souths Suburban played North Mackay.  It too came down to the last bowl and North Mackay Ladies were declared the winners by one point.  The event is held at the same Club each year on land donated by the Symons family.

The Ladies presenting the Shields are members of the Symons family, Daphne Goodson and June Critchley, who donated their land for the benefit of the Northern Beaches Bowls Club which hosts the event annually.

Contributed By Helen Fleming 

Symons Shield 2024 Winning Team-North Mackay bowls club ladies’ section.
Left to right: S Cuttriss, Marie Duck, Lois Deguara, Lidia McCarthy, Nug Pratt, Debbie Mackenzie, Lorna Bowers, Lorraine Lemke, Lorraine Silman. 

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Just over thirty runners kicked off amidst the sights and lively sounds of the Bluewater Quay before heading off onto the Forgan Smith Bridge for a very social 5k and 10km run. Runners had the option to do participate in anything between the 5km and 10km depending on where their current abilities were at, with some tackling an extra kilometre or two at Mt Bassett.
 
Ten-kilometre runner, Grant Holmstrom easily accounted for the Mt Bassett section of the event before storming home on the comparatively flat surface to be first across the line with fast-finishing Ashley Miles and Jim Ogilvie closing in for the minor placings.  Jose Short made ‘short’ work of the 10km as she skimmed over the course with big improver, Emily Hayles closing in for the silver podium position ahead of Carmel Mahon, Bernadine McKinnon, Geeta Ariani and Judy Zahn. 

Excellent efforts from 5km runners Julie Whibley, Andrew Wallace, Simon Henderson, Len Haworth, Kim Saron, Corey Gould, Dana Gould, Natasha Joynson, Kayla Waugh, Katrina Ogilvie, Neah Garciano and Sandra Henderson.  Jess and Ryan Everts did it the hard way as usual, but the kids were great, well done to them all.

Congratulations to all runners who were at out-of-town events including the Hamilton Island Hilly Half Marathon and Port Macquarie Ironman events.  The best of the many Mackay locals on Hamilton Island were Paul Mackenzie who scored an amazing 8th overall and 2nd in his age category, Thomas Wendt (2nd age), Sam Sticklan (1st in age), Sarah Manttan (2nd age), Dee Trannore (3rd age) and Paul Manttan (7th age).
 
This weekend’s Mackay Road Runners event will be held on Saturday morning from the Casu Jacks Café at the Mackay Marina, and the race will commence at 7am.  The Pre-Mother’s Day event is a 5km and 12km, along with Sunday, which is heralded as the most important day of the year!  

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Contributed By Janelle Tilse

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Just over thirty runners enjoyed the very social Bluewater Quay 5k and 10km
Dana Gould (right) enjoyed her first run with Mackay Road Runners newest member Corey Gould
Mackay Road Runners Life Member and champion runner, Judy Zahn made light work of the 10km. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse
Race Director and Club Secretary, Julie Whibley (seated at left) had a great comeback 5km run with a huge contingent of local Mackay Road Runners members

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Mackay Brothers are proving a force to be reckoned with in the 2024 Northern Region Mackay & District Junior Rugby League A Grade competition.
The all-conquering Leprechauns have opened the season in ominous style with three consecutive victories under the coaching of Thomas Heggie and shape as the team to beat for this year’s title.
Having notched an incredible 24 tries to date, Heggie’s much vaunted charges boast a powerful forward pack and enterprising back division with attacking strike across the field.
Brothers have recorded thumping early round triumphs over Wests Tigers (54-18), Carlton Devils (44-10) and Sarina Crocodiles (36-0) and hope to extend their winning streak when the A Grade competition resumes this Saturday.
The Leprechauns travel to Shark Park to face the fourth-placed Souths Sharks, who have posted victories over Whitsunday Brahmans (56-4) and Mackay Magpies (24-18) and a 23-16 loss to Wests Tigers.
Talented Australian Universities fullback Kane Simon, centres Jayden Batchelor and Rydge Smith, elusive wingers Malachi Power and Matthew Skaife, utility Tyrese Parter and classy halves Luke Fletcher, Brad Campbell and Jedd Abbott have demonstrated their fleet-footed skills with a feast of tries.
Just as impressive are forwards Declan Laird, Josh Honan, Jack Hoffmann, Mason Simpson, Pat Vella, Ethan Sweet, lock Mason Thorpe and hooker Daniel Kelly who have laid the foundations with non-stop performances.
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MEANWHILE ladder leaders Wests Tigers maintained their undefeated record in the Under 17s division after a 24-12 victory over Sarina Crocodiles last Sunday at BB Print Stadium.
Crack centre Jt Brice grabbed a try double as the Tigers chalked up their third win of the season after five rounds to stay on top of the table with nine points that includes a 12-all draw with Brothers and a bye.
Brice made an early impact by nabbing four-pointers in the opening 24 minutes with talented fullback and skipper Mason Ryan-Ellul and Canberra Raiders contracted forward Mark Morrow also among the Tigers’ try scorers.
Back-rower Lachlan Starr booted four conversions to give Wests the edge while hooker Ryan John, Wilson James and five-eighth Brody Moore crossed for the Crocodiles.
Wests skittled Brahmans 44-6 and Souths Sharks 38-14 in the earlier rounds with Ryan-Ellul, centres Morrow and Brice, halves Joshua Toby and Talan Cottom and forwards Starr, Jake Reid, hooker Slade Kretschmar, Kereama Gartner and Jack Townsend in top form.
Second-placed Wanderers Roosters edged out Brahmans 10-6 at Proserpine Junior Sporting Complex while third-placed Brothers rolled Souths Sharks 18-10 at Leprechaun Park with tries to lock Bailey Kurylko, prop Justis Costigan, hooker Cooper Deguara and centre Jack Goodale.

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Brothers are leading the U19 ladder this season while the U17s are coming third after an 18-10 win over the Sharks last weekend. Photo credit: Ashlee Meredith

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Century 21 proudly announces the launch of Century 21 Coast to Coalfields in Mackay, under the leadership of seasoned real estate professional Luke James Curtis.

With over 14 years of industry expertise, Luke aims to cater to clients' diverse goals and property needs, whether buying, selling, or investing. Having deep roots in the local community, Luke brings intimate knowledge of the market's trends and nuances.

Luke expressed the following on what he hopes to accomplish with this new office, "Our vision for the new Century 21 Coast to Coalfields office is to revolutionise the Mackay property market”.

“We're not just here to sell houses – we're here to provide a one-stop, holistic solution for all our clients' property needs,” he explained.

“Backed by the Century 21 brand and fuelled by our passion for excellence, we're excited to redefine what it means to be a real estate agency in Mackay.”

CEO of Century 21 Australasia, James Bell expresses excitement about this new venture, anticipating the positive impact it will have on the local real estate landscape.

"It's very exciting to see a new era of exceptional real estate and property management services coming to the Mackay region,” he stated.

“We're proud to have such a dynamic team become part of our network and we look forward to seeing them go from strength to strength."

Century 21 Coast to Coalfields Mackay promises unparalleled real estate services, covering everything from transaction complexities to securing financing for various assets.

Situated in the heart of Mackay within the Century 21 Plaza building, the new office will serve as a centralised hub for delivering exceptional service. Supported by a dedicated team of agents who share his vision, Luke ensures clients receive top-notch guidance and results.

With a focus on personalised attention and comprehensive solutions, the office sets a standard for excellence in the industry, where every client's needs are met with professionalism and efficiency.

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Bridge players will congregate in Mackay this long weekend to compete in the Barrier Reef Congress. Players will travel from the Atherton Tablelands & Cairns in the North and Victoria & Tasmania in the south for this annual event. Several players are even making the trip from New Zealand.  
Approximately 300 players will compete in pairs and team events over the 4 days.  Many current and former Australian & Queensland representative players will be vying for the top honours.  Also, in the running will be 3 players from the Australian u26 women’s team honing their skills before they travel to Poland later in the year to compete in the World Youth Championships.
The Mackey Bridge Club is thrilled that the current Australian Bridge Federation president and secretary will also be in attendance. Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said council was pleased to support the Barrier Reef Congress, one of the premier competition events of the Queensland Bridge community.  
“Events like the congress bring hundreds of people together in our region, and outside of the skill and strategy of gameplay, they will have the opportunity to relax, socialise and explore what our region has to offer,” Mayor Williamson said.
The Mackay Bridge Club is very thankful to their sponsors for this event – Mackay Regional Council, Daly Bay, SH Tait & Co, TBIB, Paul Lavings, North Marine, Mackay Tourism & Officeworks.

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In a thrilling NBL1 North showdown at the McDonald’s Mackay Stadium last Saturday night, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors triumphed over the Rockhampton Rockets in a spectacular high-scoring game. The Meteors displayed exceptional teamwork, securing a win with a final score of 111 to 102. Todd Blanchfield led the charge for the Meteors netting the most goals, notching up 31 points and 14 rebounds. Isaac White also continued his on-court fire with 28 points and 6 assists, while Emmett Naar and Luca Yates delivered impressive double-doubles. Naar tallied 14 points and 12 assists, while Yates added 14 points and 10 rebounds to the scoreboard. The Meteors' next home game will be against the Northside Wizards in Round 6 on Saturday, May 18.

Meanwhile, in another intense NBL1 North clash, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes faced off against the Rockhampton Cyclones. Despite putting up a valiant effort, the Meteorettes fell short against their opponents, with a final score of 73 to 93 in favour of the Cyclones. The Meteorettes displayed determination on the court, with Nikita Van Wyk leading the charge with 14 points and 6 rebounds. Chelsea Brook and Sam Haiby also made notable contributions, each adding 11 points to the scoreboard. Despite the loss, the Meteorettes remain focused and determined to bounce back stronger in their next home game against the Northside Wizards on May 18.

In addition to the thrilling on-court action, the Meteors celebrated the on-fire performance of Todd Blanchfield, who alongside Samantha Bowman from Rockhampton, were both awarded the prestigious NBL1 North ANZAC Round Medal. This recognises players who exemplify the ANZAC Spirit, embodying qualities such as endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour, and mateship. Congratulations to both Todd and Samantha for their exceptional achievements.

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McDonald's Mackay Meteors' Todd Blanchfield shines with the ANZAC Round Medal, celebrating his outstanding display of athleticism, courage, and camaraderie on the court

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