Congratulations to Faye Wright, Susan Wright, Ken Seaniger and Robert Carless who started Bridge lessons together in 2006. They celebrated twenty years of bridge Saturday. Well done!
Weekly Results
Monday 9 February 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Rodney Miles / Joy Hold
2nd
Diane Morgan / Sandy Ford
3rd
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
3rd
Noel Bugeia / Geoffrey Patterson
4th
Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft
4th
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
5th
Susan Ross / Vicki Howard
5th
Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill
Tuesday Evening 10 February 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
2nd
Adrian Westcott / Glen Coup
3rd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
Wednesday 11 February 2026 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
2nd
Sue Mayer-Miller / Martin Pearce
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
3rd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
4th
Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
4th
Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
Thursday Evening 12 February 2026 – 4 Tables One Winner – Green Points
1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers
4th
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 13 February 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
1st
Janelle Conroy / Jan Harris
2nd
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Annette Howe / Monica Darley
3rd
Mick King / Geoff Cowan
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
4th
Joy Robinson / Jewel Schmidt
4th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
Saturday 14 February 2025 – Section A - 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Terry Sheedy / Richard Wix
1st
Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris
2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
3rd
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
3rd
Julie O’Neill / Gwen Liddell
Saturday 14 February 2025 – Section B - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
1st
Nancy Martin /Monica Darley
2nd
Annie Lynch / Diane Stokes
2nd
Christine Nice / Mary rose Ramsden
3rd
Sue Mayer-Miller / Adrian Westcott
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
Contributed with thanks to Joy Block
Ken Seaniger, Susan Wright, Robert Carless & Faye Wright. Photo supplied
Mackay Road Runners Club is celebrating a major milestone this year, marking 50 years of running, friendship and community spirit in the Mackay region.
To commemorate the occasion, the club will host a special 50th Anniversary Dinner on Saturday, 11 April, to be held at Mantra Mackay at the Marina. The evening will bring together past and present members, along with supporters and friends of the club, to share stories, achievements and memories from five decades of running.
Numbers for the celebration will be capped at 80 guests due to venue capacity, with attendees enjoying a two-course buffet dinner priced at $65 per person. A formal invitation flyer, including RSVP dates and payment details, will be released on the club’s Facebook page shortly. Those travelling from out of town — or locals wishing to stay the night — can contact Mantra Mackay directly for discounted accommodation by mentioning the Anniversary Dinner event.
While the celebrations will continue throughout the year, the club is also kicking off its 2026 running calendar this weekend. The first run will take place this Sunday at 24 Johnson Street, West Mackay, with the popular Tilse Toddle offering both 5km and 10km social runs starting at 5pm.
Existing members are asked to wear their race numbers to assist the timekeeper ahead of the first handicap run the following weekend. New members and casual runners are always welcome, and non-runners are encouraged to drop by for a chat and soak up the atmosphere.
As always, runners are invited to stay post-run for a relaxed social catch-up, complete with a barbecue, icy zooper doopers for recovery — and a special 50th Anniversary cake to officially launch this landmark year.
Members who ordered the limited-edition 50th Anniversary singlets can collect them at the Tilse Toddle. The club extended its thanks to Merchandising Officer Jo Hughes for coordinating the release, along with supplier NFE and Russell O’Hara. A small number of additional singlets will be available for purchase in various sizes.
The club also recently took part in the Mackay Regional Council Sports Expo, which was hailed as a success in showcasing local sporting and recreational opportunities. Mackay Road Runners thanked Council for hosting the event and acknowledged the volunteers who helped represent clubs across the region.
With 50 years behind them and many more kilometres ahead, Mackay Road Runners Club continues to prove that running is about more than fitness — it’s about community, connection and having fun along the way.
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The Mackay Sports & Recreation Expo is set to once again bring the region’s sporting heartbeat to life, offering the community a dynamic window into the breadth and depth of activities available across Mackay and surrounding areas. As an annual celebration of movement, connection and community spirit, the Expo provides a central meeting place where local clubs, recreation groups and activity providers come together under one roof to showcase what they do best to get people active and involved.
More than just a display of sports, the Expo is designed as a hands-on experience. Visitors can step beyond the sidelines and take part in interactive come-and-try sessions led by local clubs and qualified coaches, giving people of all ages and abilities the chance to test the waters before committing to a new activity. From traditional team sports to emerging and alternative recreation options, the event reflects the diversity of opportunities available right here in the Mackay region.
Throughout the day, attendees will also have the chance to meet representatives from community sport and recreation organisations, ask questions, and learn more about what’s on offer. Live demonstrations, performance showcases and skills workshops add to the energy of the event, providing a snapshot of the talent, passion and dedication that drives grassroots sport and recreation locally.
Information stalls will be a key feature, offering practical details on memberships, junior programs, volunteering opportunities and inclusive sport pathways. Health and wellbeing resources will also be available, with a focus on injury prevention, fitness advice and participation options to help people find safe, sustainable ways to stay active.
With family-friendly activities, giveaways and a lively outdoor atmosphere, the Expo is designed to be as welcoming as it is informative. It caters to parents searching for new activities for their children, newcomers looking to connect with the local community, and individuals keen to return to sport or try something completely different.
As this year’s feature highlights some of the stallholders, businesses and organisations involved, it also shines a spotlight on the people and groups who make Mackay’s sport and recreation scene thrive. The Expo is not only about discovering a new sport, but rather about building connections, supporting local clubs, and celebrating a community that values health, participation and active lifestyles.
For anyone looking to get involved, get inspired and get moving, the Mackay Sports & Recreation Expo offers a front-row seat to the region’s vibrant sport and recreation culture!
What: Mackay Regional Council presents the 2026 Sports & Recreation Expo.
When: Sunday 15 February 2026, 9:00am to 1:00pm.
Where: Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC)
Mackay Wanderers Football Club is stepping into the 2026 season with strong momentum, inviting families, players and football fans to connect with the club at the upcoming Mackay Regional Council Sport and Rec Expo.
A key highlight for the club is its recent achievement of Football Queensland’s Tier 2 (T2) Club rating – a significant endorsement that places Mackay Wanderers F C in elite company and sets a new benchmark for football development in the region. The club is currently the only football club between Townsville and Bundaberg to hold this status.
“We’re the only club between Townsville and Bundaberg that has a T2 rating, which means we’re able to have higher levels of coaching and higher accreditation,” Club President Greg Kliese said.
Tier 2 status requires all coaches across the club to meet minimum accreditation standards for their specific age groups. This ensures players receive consistent, high-quality coaching at every stage of their football journey, from grassroots through to senior competition, while also strengthening long-term development across the club.
For players with aspirations beyond local competition, the accreditation also creates stronger pathways into representative football, offering opportunities to be identified and invited to progress at higher levels.
At this year’s Expo, Mackay Wanderers F C will focus on making football fun and accessible for families. An inflatable activity will be available for kids, while club members will be on hand to provide information, answer questions and help new players and parents learn more about joining the club.
The club prides itself on being a welcoming, family-focused organisation that caters for both men and women, and boys and girls from as young as five years old through to senior competition.
“We’re definitely a family club and we take pride in being a welcoming and inclusive club,” Mr Kliese said.
In a regional community where sport plays a vital role in connection, health and wellbeing, the club continues to champion football as a way to build confidence, friendships and teamwork.
“Practice is what helps you enjoy the game,” Mr Kliese said. “The better you are at playing, the more you enjoy it, and you can’t become good at the game without practice. Learning to enjoy training and working with your teammates is a big part of what we’re all about here.”
Looking ahead, the club will also celebrate a major milestone in 2026, with its Junior Carnival marking its 10th year. Held on Sunday 2 August, the carnival is one of the largest junior football events in Queensland, attracting teams and families from across the state.
Offering elite accreditation, proven development pathways and a family-first culture, Mackay Wanderers F C invites locals to connect at the Expo and explore how football can become part of their family’s future.
Visit the club’s website or pop in at the Expo to learn more!
The 2026 formal club season is fast approaching, with the Mackay Regional Council Sport and Rec Expo taking place next Sunday (9am to 1pm) at the MECC, followed by the first official club run on Sunday, 22 February at 5pm at 24 Johnson Street, West Mackay.
Mackay Road Runners will also meet for a social 5km/10km run at 4.30pm after the Expo at Bluewater Quay, followed by a refreshing cool down at the Red Dog post run.
Club Merchandising Co-ordinator Jo Hughes has been working hard to have the 50th Anniversary singlets arrive and ready for distribution at the first run of the year, the Tilse Toddle, on 22 February. Those who have pre-ordered and paid are thanked and are asked to see Jo to arrange collection at the Tilse Toddle. For those who have not yet ordered, a limited supply of additional sizes will be available at the special edition price of $35. Members are encouraged to get in fast, with cash preferred to assist with receipting.
A great time was enjoyed by all at Bluewater Quay today, with several runners and their children making the most of the balmy Sunday afternoon conditions while running and cycling the Catherine Freeman Boardwalk Trail. Those who stayed on post run at the Red Dog for a rewarding warm down found the cooling sea breezes perfect after their efforts on the trail.
Runners are encouraged to sign up online now to become a member of the most successful and longest running group in the region. Annual fees are $70 for adults and $30 for juniors aged 12 and under 18 years, with a $2 fee per race day. Casual runners, new runners, and runners from other sporting teams, groups and schools are most welcome to attend for a $10 race day fee, which covers insurance, a marked course and a fun day running with like-minded, inclusive individuals. Whether running socially or competitively, it’s up to you – running is for everyone, no matter your age or ability.
The next committee meeting will be held on Wednesday 18 February at 5.30pm, which differs from the usual second Monday of the month due to committee members being away. The committee meets at the North Qld Bulk Ports meeting room at the Mackay Marina, with thanks to NQBP for the generous use of the meeting room. All members and intending members are warmly invited to attend.
(Left to right) Janelle Tilse, Jo Hughes, Derek Woods, Andrew Short, Carmel Mahon, Todd Turner, Len Howarth and Levi Wallace. Photo supplied
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Players from all over the district came together at Goosies Sport and Recreation club, for the annual Australia Day Bowls event. Much fun and laughter and great camaraderie was had by almost 100 players and guests. Party pies, sausage rolls and lamingtons were a favourite. The club hopes next year will be bigger than ever!
Contributed with thanks to Sue Hazledine
This fast-paced game has three health benefits – Mental, Physical and Social. Going into week three, we saw some incredible matches across the board in all divisions. Josh Brown and Barry Patterson battled out with Josh winning this marathon (6-11,11-7,11-8, 10-12,13-11).
Evening Fixtures – Division 1: Paris (Steve Whiting, Josh Brown, Anne Sheridan) def. London (Barry Patterson, Trent Day, Syed Hossain) 6-5. Match featured above. Athens (Goncalo Serra, Jacob Whelan, Graeme Walker) def. St Louis (Lily Boland, Neil Brown, Emma Widdup) 6-5. Neil lived up to his nickname “5 Set Neil” against Graeme. Neil come back from 2-1 down to win in five sets (-10,11,-6,3,6).
Division 2: Stockholm (Geoff Cowan, Donna Abbott, Will VanDeKaa) def. Amsterdam (Duncan Treloar, Janice Kent, Graham Brake) 8-3. Janice won close five sets against Geoff (4,-7,-3,6,7). Los Angeles (Allan Edwards, Mark Sleeman, Lee Brake) def. Antwerp (Danial Warfield, Andrea Nicholson, Yilin Jiang) 7-4. Yilin and Mark battled to the end with Yilin coming out on top in five sets (9,-9,9,-8,7).
Division 3: Melbourne (Ollie Hamelink, Delma Knight, Rymer Tabulo) def. Berlin (Noreen Frederickson, Simon Hogan, Mark Stam) 7-4. Ollie had a great match with Simon, with Ollie giving his all by winning (-8,7,-6,5,9). Rome (Matt West, Ian McKay, Peter Goodson) def. Helsinki (George Camilleri, Darryl Ross, Steve Mathieson) 6-5. Steve came back against Matt to win close match (-9,8,-9,7,7).
Division 4: Tokyo (Remy Zhan, Rachel Fiesta, Hollie Cleaver) def. Munich (Liz Burton, Amanda Liu, Eldan Japay) 7-4. Rachel defeated Eldan by coming back from two sets down to win in five (-8,8,7,8,2). Moscow (Jeff Binnington, Logan Brown, Mohmout Ahmed) def. Mexico City (Tiffany Camilleri, Archel Cruz, Dylan Ringwood) 8-3. Jeff won close five sets against Tiffany (-5,4,8,-9,8). Seoul (David Symons, Ragina Wulf, Ricky Zhan) def. Montreal (Craig VanDeKaa, Jeric Engay, Melanie Theodore) 6-5. David and Craig had a great five set match with David winning (7,8,-7,-2,4).
Contributed with thanks to Andrea Nicholson
Sensei Helle Jorgensen Smith, who runs the Shito Ryu Karate dojo in Bucasia, spent the last six months of 2025 in her homeland Denmark with her two sons, Nathanial and Aksel, aged 16 and 14. With karate remaining part of their daily routine, it wasn’t long before Helle was asked by a friend’s two young boys if they could also learn.
And so, the Danish Karate Club was born, with Jonathan and Tristan, aged 14 and 13, and three teachers — Sensei Helle, Nathanial, a Black Belt (1st Dan), and Aksel, a 1st Kyu Brown Belt (one level before black).
Training two to three hours per week, and with a unique ratio of three teachers to two students, the two white belts (first level) progressed quickly. Jonathan and Tristan showed respect from the very first lesson and completed their homework each week. This included not only physical training, but also learning the philosophy behind karate. They even researched aspects of the art beyond what is normally expected of a white belt. Sensei Helle said, “they were simply a joy to teach.”
Karate is not about fighting or merely self defence; it focuses on discipline, lifelong self-development, self-control, and the pursuit of a calm and peaceful mind.
After five months of training, the new students graded to the next level, achieving Yellow Belt and Yellow Belt with two stripes — almost to the next level. It was a courageous effort by the two young boys, who have vowed to continue their karate journey and may one day visit their parent dojo in Mackay.
The Northern Beaches Karate Club runs classes during the school term on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the Bucasia Community Hall in Wallace Avenue. Sensei Helle also holds self defence courses for women and girls, with the next session planned for Saturday, February 14, 2026. Further sessions are planned throughout the year. For more information, call 0488 146 644.
Contributed with thanks to Gerri Kissner
A local Bucasia karate instructor has helped establish a mini dojo in Denmark, sharing discipline and tradition with young students abroad. Photos supplied
Janelle Conroy who has been playing Contract Bridge for twenty two years is now a Grand Master. This is an honor which the Australia Bridge Federation bestows on someone who has 1000 Masterpoints including 500 Red points and 200 Gold points. Janelle plays reguarly with Terry Sheedy, Noel Bugeia, Pamela Finger, Geoff Taylor, Robert Carless and many others. Janelle is a great mentor to beginners and novices and works tiresley for the Bridge Club.
Weekly Results
Monday 2 February 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 1st Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
2nd Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill 2nd Diane Morgan / Sandy Ford
3rd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 3rd Diane Stokes / Edward Kleise
4th Rodney Miles / Joy Hold 4th Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
Tuesday Evening 3 February 2026 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood 2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
3rd Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia 4th Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
Wednesday 4 February 2026 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Jan Harris / Sandra Morris 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Diane Slokes / Joy Block
3rd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 3rd Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
4th Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 4th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz
5th Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 5th Jewel Schmidt / Anette Howe
Thursday Evening 5 February 2026 – 4 Tables One Winner – Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown
3rd Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers 4th Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 6 February 2026 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Annette Howe 1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown
2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 2nd Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger
3rd Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy 3rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
4th Mick King / Geoff Cowan 4th Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill
Saturday 7 February 2025 –13 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
2nd Janine Rodgers / Geoff Cowan 2nd Terry Sheedy / Richard Wix
3rd Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 3rd Adrian Westcott / Martin Pearce
4th Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 4th Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
5th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 5th Helen Goldston / Jean Penridge
Contributed with thanks to Joy Block
Robert, Noel & Janelle
Mick,Janelle & Jan
Pres. Frances presenting Cert. to Janelle. Photos supplied
Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club delivered an impressive performance across all age groups at the 2026 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Sprint Championships, held 7–8 February 2026, with swimmers collecting medals, finals appearances and a host of personal best results.
The opening day featured the club’s senior swimmers. Anisa Helou swam strongly in her heats to reach the finals in both the 16-year-old 50m freestyle and 50m butterfly, recording a national qualifying time in the butterfly and adding to her national campaign after previously qualifying in the 50m freestyle.
Cyclones sprint specialist and her brother, Ehsan Helou, claimed a silver medal in the 17-year-old 50m breaststroke. The result followed a strong Queensland Country Championships campaign in Rockhampton in late January where he won silver in the 50m breaststroke and 50m freestyle, and bronze in the 50m butterfly.
Oscar Wyatt and Rourke Bagley also competed on Saturday, both producing personal best times across their events.
The second day saw the younger swimmers take to the pool, led by Matthew Dolzon who won the Queensland State Sprint Champion (10 years S19 MC) title across all four strokes – 50m freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke and butterfly – while completing eight races across the program.
Maddison Searle finished 10th in the 11-year-old girls’ 50m freestyle and was first reserve for the 50m backstroke final, while her sister Ellanah Searle finished the meet with a determined swim and personal best in the 50m butterfly after a long day of racing. Vogue Miles achieved a PB in the butterfly and Willow McLennan impressed in her first State meet with PBs in freestyle and backstroke. Freyja Wyatt closed out the club’s competition with personal best performances across backstroke and breaststroke.
Head coach Leighanne Pokarier said the championships test both speed and resilience.
“The Sprint Championships are tough because they’re raced at high pace across all strokes, and swimmers who make finals can end up completing several races in a short duration,” she said.
“It’s a great learning meet, the skills and race execution we practise at training really matter in this format.”
Pokarier said the results highlighted the club’s growing strength and depth, with swimmers successfully competing against some of the State’s fastest athletes and building strong momentum heading into upcoming meets later in the season.
Contributed with thanks to Sevda Inan
Ehsan Helou- State Sprints 2026
Matthew Dolzan
Anisa Helou QLD Sprints 2026. Photos supplied
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Mackay Road Runners Club will mark a very special milestone in 2026, celebrating 50 years of “Your running fix since ’76.” The club’s 50th anniversary will be formally celebrated with a gala dinner on Saturday, April 11, at the Mantra Mackay Harbour. Updates on how to join the celebration will be shared soon. Numbers for the gala dinner will be limited, so interested participants are encouraged to stay informed and spread the word.
Upcoming events with Mackay Road Runners:
• Sunday, 8 February – 4.30pm: Social 5k and 10k at Bluewater Quay, followed by a short post-run warm-down and hydration session at the Red Dog.
• Sunday, 15 February – 9am to 1pm: Mackay Regional Council Annual Sports Expo. Volunteers are required to assist at the Mackay Road Runners table. Contact Janelle on 0400 99 7432.
• Sunday, 22 February – 5pm: Start of the 2026 Mackay Road Runners season at 24 Johnson Street, West Mackay. New and existing members are invited to run, walk or volunteer. Online registration is encouraged to be eligible immediately for handicap club points. Post-run refreshments will be provided.
• Every Wednesday – 5.30pm: Free track training at the ARC (Aquatic & Recreation Complex), Ooralea, led by Club Captain Jim Ford. A $5 entry fee applies at the pool kiosk.
The club welcomes everyone to join in, whether running, walking, volunteering, or enjoying the social aspects of Mackay Road Runners’ activities.
Contributed with thanks to Janelle Tilse
(left to right): Andrew Short, Jo Hughes, Len Howarth, David Isbister, Carmel Mahon welcome back Daniel Stampa (right) after a 7-month secret training overseas vigil. Photos supplied
Welcome back to all our returning players for 2026 and a big Welcome to our New Fixture Players. It is wonderful to come and enjoy our beautiful Air-Conditioned Centre. Season 1 of Tuesday Evening Fixtures began with some very close and entertaining matches.
Division 1: Paris (Steve Whiting, Anne Sheridan, Josh Brown) def. Athens (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker) 7-4. Anne won a tight 5 sets against Graeme (4,-4,-9,2,9).
St Louis (Emma Widdup, Lily Boland, Neil Brown) def. London (Barry Patterson, Trent Day, Syed Hossain) 7-4. Neil and Barry battled it out for the biggest 5 set match with Neil coming out on top
(-10,-15,6,10,12).
Division 2: Stockholm (Geoff Cowan, Donna Abbott, Will VanDeKaa) def. Antwerp (YiLin Jiang, Andrea Nicholson, Robbie Richards) 9-2. YiLin beat Donna (-14,-7,10,5,6) in a great match.
Los Angeles (Allan Edwards, Mark Sleeman, Lee Brake) def. Amsterdam (Janice Kent, Graham Brake, Duncan Treloar) 6-5. Mark and Duncan had a massive battle to the end with Mark winning (-5,-9,12,8,10).
Division 3: Helsinki (George Camilleri, Dilini Ranasinghe, Darryl Ross) def. Berlin (Simon Hogan, Noreen Frederickson, Mark Stam) 8-3. Simon had a great battle with George (-10,-9,8,7,9).
Melbourne (Delma Knight, Rymer Tabulo, Ollie Hamelink) def. Rome (Ian McKay, Matt West, Peter Goodson) 7-4. Rymer won close 5 sets against Matt (7,9,-3,-9,9).
Division 4: Mexico City (Tiffany Camilleri, Dylan Ringwood, Archel Dela Cruz) def. Tokyo (Remy Zhan, Rachel Fiesta, Hollie Cleaver) 6-5. Dylan started well in his first night against Remy, by winning in 5 sets (9,-9,3,-3,5).
Montreal (Melanie Theodore, Craig VanDeKaa, Jeric Engay) def. Munich (Liz Burton, Amanda Liu, Eldan Japay) 7-4. Eldan had a great win against Craig (7.9.-4,-2,8).
Seoul (David Symons, Ricky Zhan, Daniel Warfield) def. Moscow (Jeff Bennington, Logan Brown, Mohmout Ahmad) 9-2. David had a close battle against Jeff, with David winning (10,9,-8,-5,10).
Contributed with thanks to Andrea Nicholson
Mark Sleeman
Duncan Treloar. Photos supplied
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The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club kicked off its 2026 season with a Graded Fours Competition, welcoming 40 ladies to the green to compete for the first trophy of the year.
The winning team was Lesley Baumgarten, Daphne Offield, Jean Schmidtke and Ann Smith.
Second place went to Wendy McGee, Phyllis Cooper, Sue Hazledine and Chris Woo.
The club thanks all players for a great start to the year and looks forward to seeing everyone back next week for the Graded Triples Competition.
Contributed with thanks to Sue Hazledine.
Photos supplied
Members of the Sinkers Masters Swim Club are a versatile lot and regularly join in other clubs’ events as well as hosting their own.
On Australia Day 2026, the Mackay Triathlon Club hosted the Aquathon, with a number of Sinkers competing in the sprint, 2.5km run and 300m swim legs, with many even running and swimming the distances twice.
A great team effort.
FUN in FEB on Saturday 28th February is fast approaching and all are welcome. Entry is via Swim Central and closes on Feb 20th. https://mastersswimmingqld.org.au/event/sinkers-fun-in-feb-meet/
This is a local short course (25m) carnival at Mackay North State High School Pool (Valley Street) finishing with a fun after party.
Swim 25m, 50m, 100m or 400m in any stroke and you can nominate up to 6 events.
Save the Date: 2026 Whitehaven Open Water Swim – 4th October 2026.
It’s the King’s Birthday long weekend, so stay the night and party into Monday. There’ll be crystal clear water, world famous white silica sand and an unforgettable swim experience! Whether you’re racing, challenging yourself or soaking up the atmosphere, it’s going to be an incredible weekend in Paradise. More details coming soon.
Proudly supported by MSQ Masters Swimming Queensland.
Sinkers Masters Swimming Club isn’t just for swimmers. It is inclusive of non-swimmers, those learning to swim again and a few using the water to recover from injury, as well as some serious competitors. The club holds regular social events with a morning tea held after each Saturday morning session at the DMR Memorial Pool. For information, please call Megan on 0439980103.
Contributed by Gerri Kissner
Mackay players Max and Diane Holewa, Janelle Conroy and Terry Sheedy played in the Townsville Australia Day Congress. Max and Diane came second in the Walk-ins, Janelle and Terry second in the Swiss Pairs, and all combined to win the Division A Team event. Noel Bugeia came a respectable fourth in the Swiss pairs at the Festival of Bridge in Canberra earlier in the month.
Weekly Results
Tuesday Evening 27 January 2026 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia 1st Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner
2nd Mick King / John McGee 2nd Martin Pearce / Christopher Myers
Wednesday 28 January 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
2nd Monica Darley / Frances Brown 2nd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
3rd Faith Hutchinson / Geoff Cowan 3rd Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
Thursday Evening 29 January 2026 – 3 Tables One Winner – Green Points
1st Martin Pearce / Karen Caldwell 2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 3rd Jan Harris / Diane Stokes
Friday 30 January 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson 1st Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
2nd Christine Fitzpatrick / Joy Block 2nd Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild 3rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox
4th Joy Robinson / Jewel Schmidt 4th Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
Saturday 31 January 2025 – Section A - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice 1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
2nd Frances Brown / Christopher Meyers 2nd Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
3rd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 3rd Jan Harris / Griffin Bancroft
Saturday 31 January 2025 – Section B – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 1st Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
2nd Sandy Patterson / Joy Hold 2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
3rd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt 3rd Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
Contributed with thanks to Joy Block
Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Max Holewa and Diane
Noel Bugeia. Photos supplied
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club recently travelled to Alva Beach, Ayr to compete in the North Barrier Branch Champion Lifesaver Carnival. The event involves lifesavers being assessed on their surf sports fitness, patient assessment & CPR skills and a detailed theory paper.
Mackay SLSC Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant said “This competition is extremely important in developing the skills of our lifesavers. These are the youth who patrol our beaches for the community and make going to the beach safe & enjoyable. It is a very challenging multi-disciplined event that tests competitors in a number of different scenarios that could one day save someone’s life.”
“The surf club’s lifesavers had some outstanding individual results with U17’s Nate McKinnon & Zara Richardson taking out 1st in Champion Lifesaver as well as 1st in First Aid. U15’s females Cadence McKinnon finished 1st with Isabella Grant coming in 2nd in Champion lifesaver, and as a team placed 1st in the First Aid competition. With U15 male Nate Espartinez taking out 1st place also” said Mr Grant
“The club is extremely proud to see our lifesavers excel at such an important event. This was all thanks to the coaching of Cathy McKinnon & Stewart Richardson who will now lead the team heading into state championships on the Gold Coast this weekend, so we can hopefully retain our current positions as state champions in their age groups.”
Contributed by Josh Grant.
Start of the surf race.
U17’s Zara Richardson & Nate McKinnon undertaking a scenario as part of the first Aid competition, which they placed 1st.
Mackay SLSC Champion Lifesaver Team – competitors, officials, coaches and parents.
From established streets to newly developed estates, Mackay residents are taking a fresh look at what makes a home more than just a place to live. Increasingly, buyers are seeking properties that strike the right balance between lifestyle, accessibility, and long-term value, reflecting a shift in priorities across the local property market.
For many, lifestyle is no longer defined solely by the size of a backyard or the number of bedrooms. Instead, homeowners and prospective buyers are drawn to locations that offer easy access to schools, parks, and community hubs. Neighbourhoods with a strong sense of community, walking paths, and recreational facilities are particularly appealing, as they provide spaces where families can connect, children can play safely, and neighbours can build lasting relationships.
Accessibility is another key factor shaping decisions. Proximity to work, transport options, and everyday amenities often weighs as heavily as the features of the home itself. Residents are prioritising convenience in a way that complements their routines, whether that means being a short drive from the CBD, close to healthcare services, or near shopping and dining precincts.
Long-term value remains a priority for many, especially in a market where economic factors influence investment potential. Properties that are well-maintained, thoughtfully designed, and adaptable to changing needs tend to hold their appeal over time. For first-home buyers, families upgrading to larger spaces, or retirees looking to downsize, the potential for steady growth in value is an important consideration. Even minor improvements such as smart landscaping, functional outdoor areas, or energy-efficient upgrades can make a property more attractive while contributing to long-term security.
The blend of established streets and new estates gives Mackay a diverse housing landscape. Older, well-established areas often offer character, mature trees, and a sense of history, while newer developments provide modern layouts, contemporary finishes, and the flexibility to suit today’s lifestyle needs. This combination allows residents to select properties that match their priorities, whether it’s the charm and familiarity of a long-standing neighbourhood or the convenience and innovation of a freshly built estate.
Ultimately, Mackay’s property market reflects a broader trend in which people are seeking more than just a roof over their heads. They want homes that support how they live, provide ease of access to what matters most, and offer reassurance that their investment will endure. By balancing lifestyle, accessibility, and long-term value, residents are making choices that enhance both their daily lives and their future security, shaping the local community one home at a time.
By Hannah McNamara
You wouldn’t think he’s 80, but Mr David Isbister is living proof that determination, consistency and a love of movement can carry you to record-breaking results.
The Mackay local recently broke a long-standing parkrun record in the 80+ age category, achieving the milestone on the same weekend as his 80th birthday. Encouraged by fellow parkrun organisers and supported by a dedicated pacer, David shaved more than two minutes off the previous record during a bustling Saturday event that attracted around 400 participants.
“They said to try for the record, so I just kept working along and eventually got it,” David said.
“They gave me the time I had to beat, and I thought, yeah, that sounds all right. We all ran together and I ended up breaking it by more than two minutes.”
The timing, he said, made the achievement even more special.
“It happened on the same weekend as my 80th birthday, which made it pretty special,” he said with a smile.
The run quickly turned into a celebration of community, with David’s son and daughters joining him alongside friends and peers from Mackay Road Runners, Mackay parkrun, cycling groups, rugby clubs and volunteer networks. Later that day, around 100 people gathered to celebrate his birthday, bringing together decades of friendships forged through sport, service and shared experiences.
“Everyone from parkrun, Road Runners, and my mates from cycling, rugby and Orange Sky turned up for my birthday… it was great catching up with everyone,” he said.
“It was a great day, and it meant a lot to spend it with my family and good friends.”
Born in New Zealand, David’s life has always revolved around sport and staying active. Over the years he has taken part in rowing, rugby, running, triathlons, cycling and golf, clocking more than 40 years as a runner alone. He competed in triathlons for around two decades before narrowing his focus to running and cycling, which still feature prominently in his weekly routine.
“I’ve been running for about 40 years,” he said.
“I did triathlons for about 20 years, then stuck with running and cycling… but keeping active is the main thing.”
One of his most memorable achievements came well off the beaten track. David trekked to Mount Everest Base Camp with family members, astonishing younger hikers along the way. His son Izzy recalls fit, thirty-something trekkers struggling for breath while David powered ahead.
“There were thirty-year-olds out of breath, and then here’s dad charging up the mountain in front of them,” Izzy said.
“We were all amazed. He’s a bit of a mountain goat.”
That competitive streak, paired with quiet humility, has clearly left its mark on the whole family. David’s wife Faye was a long-time netball coach, and their children grew up immersed in sport – from basketball, soccer and cricket to rugby, netball, triathlons and cross-fit – often moving from one training session to the next.
Beyond sport, David also gives back through volunteering with Orange Sky, often riding his bike to and from shifts to help support people in need.
And when asked what advice he would give to others, David keeps it simple.
“It doesn’t matter what age you are…just keep going,” he said.
“Don’t leave it too late. Start early and keep it up. Don’t overdo it, but don’t stop either.”
When he’s not chasing a new personal best, David enjoys spending time with his wife Faye, his three children Izzy, Kylie and Lauren, and his five grandchildren – Archer, Cooper, Blake, Harry and Molly.
At 80, with records broken, mountains climbed and a community firmly behind him, David Isbister shows no signs of slowing down.
Mackay local David Isbister celebrated his 80th birthday by breaking the parkrun 80+ age category record, proving that a lifelong commitment to staying active can deliver extraordinary results at any age. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Photo source: Mackay Parkrun
BRIDGE
Our fantastic Australia Day event was a huge success, with all thanks going to the Mackay Regional Council for the funding to run this event. Members and potential new players partook in an Australian Day BBQ with a sumptuous morning tea, while enjoying a game of Bridge. Lessons for Beginners begin Tuesday 3rd February 2026, please see advertisement below in this issue of Mackay Life for more details. We hope to see many new or returning players at the table. We are a fun bunch and the game of Bridge is challenging and addictive.
Weekly Results
Monday 19 January 2026 - 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Diane Morgan / Sandy Ford
2nd Annette Howe / Geoff Patterson 2nd Jewel Schmidt / Monica Darley
3rd Faith Hutcinson / Nancy Wix 3rd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
4th Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill 4th Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
Tuesday Evening 20 January 2026 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Richard Wix 1st Martin Pearce / Christopher Myers
2nd Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood 2nd Mick King / John McGee
Wednesday 21 January 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Andrew Canavan / Kath Poole
2nd Alan Brown / Janet Hansen 2nd Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd Sandy Patterson / Geoff Patterson 3rd Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden
4th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 4th Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
5th Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait 5th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz
Thursday Evening 22 January 2026 – 3 Tables One Winner – Green Points
1st Martin Pearce / Christopher Myers 2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
3rd Adrian Westcott / Faye Wright 3rd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 23 January 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 1st Victor Mason / Josie Crowley
2nd Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild 2nd Mick King / Geoff Cowan
3rd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Alan Brown / Annette Howe
Saturday 24 November 2025 – 13 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Richard Wix / Geoffrey Patterson 1st Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
2nd Vicki Howard / Geoff Cowan 2nd Sandy Patterson / Joy Hold
3rd Jean Penridge / Helen Goldston 3rd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
4th Christopher Meyers / Robet Carless 4th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
5th Monica Darley / Nancy Martin 5th Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden
6th Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 6th Janine Rodgers / Lynne O’Neill
Monday 26 January 2026 – 13 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers 1st Adrian Westcott / Margaret Lane
2nd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 2nd Annette Howe / Debra Goodchild
3rd Patricia Garner / Martin Pearce 3rd Mick King / John McGee
4th Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin 4th Griffin Bancroft / Ian Vary
5th Sandy Patterson / Mary Rose Ramsden 5th Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
6th Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill 6th Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
Contirbuted by Joy Block
Mayor Greg Williamson joined members at the Mackay Bridge Club’s Australia Day celebration, enjoying the barbecue, morning tea and a friendly game at the tables. Photo source: Mackay Contract Bridge Club
Mackay Road Runners’ Shawn’s Splash n Dash Summer Social Biathlon Series reached its conclusion the day before Australia Day, with Alana Knezevic and Andrew Flanagan taking line honours as the female and male winners across the eight-week series.
The series was staged on Sunday afternoons at the ARC throughout November 2025 and January 2026 and attracted a wide range of competitors. Mackay Road Runners Club Captain and Race Director Jim Ford hosted the series in his usual inclusive and supportive manner, ensuring a welcoming environment for all participants.
To create a level playing field, a points system was implemented that awarded additional points to higher age categories for both track and pool laps, allowing competitors to be realigned with their younger counterparts.
The series namesake’s sister, Sharon, and her husband Jeff Stewart-Harris were present to see Alana and Andrew receive their prizes, along with a 2026 series calendar as a memento of the event.
Thanks were extended to everyone who attended and took part in the unique series, which brought together athletes and their families, whether Mackay Road Runners members or not, for a relaxed and social off-season training experience. Appreciation was also expressed to Jim Ford for the time and effort he put into delivering the series.
The formal 2026 Mackay Road Runners calendar will commence on 22 February at 24 Johnson Street, West Mackay, with all welcome to attend. Memberships can be obtained online at mackayroadrunners.com.au for a modest fee, providing access to a weekly program of events running from February through to October. Non-members are also welcome to participate for a $10 casual race-day fee. The full calendar is available online.
Ahead of the season start, Mackay Road Runners will continue to meet at Bluewater Quay at 4.30pm for a free and social 5km or 10km run.
Contributed with thanks to Janelle Tilse.
(left to right) – Amy, Kate and Leanne in sync in the 30 minute track portion of the Biathlon Series.
Steven Hayles (centre) leads runners who all bravely tackled the highly humid conditions at the track start of the Splash n Dash finale.
Mackay Road Runners Club Captain and Biathlon Series Race Director, Jim Ford presents race namesake’s sister, Sharon and her husband, Jeff Stewart-Harris with a race series calendar celebrating the Splash n Dash 2025/2026 series.
Shawn’s Splash n Dash Biathlon Series winners, Alana Knezevic (centre) and Andrew Flanagan (right) presented with their prizes from Race Director, Jim Ford (left).
The 2025/2026 Shawn’s Splash n Dash Biathlon Series grand finale was attended by over twenty five participants and their families.
(left to right) David Isbister, Len Howarth and Andrew Short relax after their efforts in the Biathlon Series.
Adam Knezevic celebrated his 40th Birthday the day before his wife, Alana (pictured) takes out the Biathlon Series. Photos supplied
SOFTBALL
Young Mackay softball players recently came together at the Under 18 National Championships, sharing pitching strategies and game experiences while representing Queensland on the national stage.
Evie Grace was the only female athlete selected in both the Queensland Under 16 and Under 18 girls teams. She completed her tour of pitching and playing with second-place finishes in both grades, following hard-fought matches against New South Wales. On each occasion, Queensland went down by just one run in the final innings. Evie returns home with increased knowledge, improved gameplay skills and many new friendships, ready for the 2026 season.
Jaxon Maluga has also commenced his national championship journey with the Queensland Under 18 men’s team. Queensland dominated the competition to progress directly to the grand final, where they faced Western Australia after New South Wales was defeated by WA. Wearing number 37, Maluga pitched strongly throughout the entire grand final, helping Queensland defeat Western Australia 8–1 to claim gold and secure the Nox Bailey Shield.
Jaxon will now travel back to Redlands to compete in the Queensland Under 23 championships from 3 to 8 February, alongside teammate James Allen. Statistician Debbie Carey will be on hand to help guide the players during their games.
Local clubs are now gearing up for the 2026 season, with sign-on days scheduled at Theo Hansen Park, Beaconsfield. The Angels will hold sign-ons on 8 February from 9am to 2pm, Dragons on 15 February from 10am to 12 noon, and Hawks on 21 February from 9am to 3pm. All clubs welcome male and female players of all ages, whether new or returning.
Mackay Softball will also hold its Annual General Meeting on 9 February at 6pm at the club on Beaconsfield Road.
Contributed with thanks to Cheryl Martin.
Photos supplied
On Wednesday 21 January, Opening Day was celebrated with plenty of fun and laughter, with many ladies in attendance from sister clubs across the district.
After several ends of bowls, players retired to the Amaroo Room to enjoy a scrumptious afternoon tea, beautifully presented by the talented staff at Goosies.
The winners of the day’s bowls were Min Andrew, Sylvia Maikler and Ann Smith. Runners-up were Betty Mulhall, Kath Remmenswall and Debbie Mackenzie. Lucky Card prizes were awarded to Carmel Bell, Pam McDermott and Wendy McGee.
A super cent sale followed and was keenly supported, with many prizes on offer and warmly received by the lucky winners.
Club President Hilary Jones-Rowan thanked everyone who attended the special Opening Day fun event and wished all members a wonderful year of bowling ahead.
Next Wednesday, ladies will be selected to play in the Club Selected Fours teams.
Happy Australia Day to all, and good bowling for 2026.
Contributed with thanks to Sue Hazledine
President Hilary, Carmel, Pam and Wendy. Photos supplied
President Hilary with winners: Min, Ann and Sylvia.
President Hilary, Betty, Kath and Deb
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie has issued proposed call-in notices for two Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects in the region, for the Capricorn BESS at Bouldercombe and the Pleystowe BESS at Pleystowe.
The move follows appeals lodged in the Planning and Environment Court by project proponents Potentia Energy and Trinasolar, after both Mackay and Rockhampton councils deferred the developments last year.
Those deferrals occurred just days before changes to the approval process for BESS projects came into effect. As a result, the companies were not required to resubmit their development applications to the State Assessment and Referral Agency under the updated rules.
Mackay Regional Council had earlier formally requested the Deputy Premier call in the Pleystowe BESS project, after the development was presented to council in November.
Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP, had written to the Deputy Premier requesting that both of these projects be called in to be properly assessed.
“The impacted communities had asked for these projects to be called in over concerns to how they would impact their quality of life if approved,” Mr Kelly said.
“Councils were restricted by planning schemes that had been written before BESS projects were being built, and weren’t able to properly consider these sorts of developments, so even if a community didn’t want it, there wasn’t a lot that councils could do.
“These call ins will give communities a chance to have their say, to be able to make their case as to why these projects should not be built so close to houses, and how this would impact the liveability of these areas, especially with other BESS projects going in right across the road for both of these.
“Neither of these developers properly consulted with the community, with those closest to the impacted projects not even being kept up to date as to what was going on, so even if they do get the go ahead, they’ve got a lot of work to do to actually build the social license in these communities.
“It’s now up to both the communities surrounding Bouldercombe and Pleystowe to have their say and make their submissions on whether or not the Deputy Premier should call these projects in, and if they need any help making a submission they can give my office a call and they’ll be more than happy to assist.”
Submissions for both Capricorn BESS and Pleystowe BESS close at 5PM on Thursday, the 5th of February 2026 and can be made to:
Deputy Premier
Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning
Minister for Industrial Relations
c/- Director, Improvement and Assessment Division
Planning Group
Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning
Email: ministerial.callin@dsdip.qld.gov.au
Post: PO Box 15009, CITY EAST QLD 4002
Member for Mirani, Glen Kelly MP at Plystowe BEES site. Photo supplied
Happy 2026 from all at the Mackay Contract Bridge Club. It has been a rough start to the year with a cyclone and rain up here in the North and tragedy, with most of Victoria burning and many losing their livelihoods. Our thoughts go out to everyone who is suffering.
We are a resilient country and to celebrate Australia and its diversity, the Mackay Contract Bridge Club will hold its annual Australia Day 2026 event. This is a free event sponsored by the Mackay Regional Council. We are very friendly bunch who enjoy fun and a good game of cards, so pop in and see what Bridge is all about. Morning tea and a traditional sausage sizzle will be provided. We begin lessons in February for new players.
Weekly Results
Monday 12 January 2026 - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
3rd Sandy Patterson / Andrew Canavan 3rd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
4th Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 4th Terry Sheedy / Geoff Patterson
Tuesday Evening 13 January 2026 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 2nd Geoff Taylor / Andrew Canavan 3rd Griffin Bancroft / Chris Meyers
Wednesday 14 January 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Frances Brown / Monica Darley 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris 3rd David Ting / Eric Goodchild
4th Joy Hold / Geoff Taylor 4th Diane Stokes / Mary Rose Ramsden
Thursday Evening 15 January 2026 – 3 Tables One Winner – Green Points
1st Janine Rodgers / Terry Sheedy 2nd Geoff Taylor / Anne Lutz 3rd Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott
Friday 16 January 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 1st Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd Terry Sheedy / Richard Wix 2nd Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
3rd Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix 3rd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 4th Mick King / Geoff Cowan
Saturday 17 November 2025 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Frances Brown / Robert Carless 1st Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
2nd Jan Harris / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin
3rd Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood 3rd Vicki Howard / Janine Rodgers
4th Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 4th Julie O’Neill / Gwen Liddell
5th Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 5th Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
6th Geoff Taylor / Terry Sheedy 6th Richard Wix / Geoffrey Patterson
Contributed by Joy Block
Celebrate community, connection and the spirit of Australia by joining the Mackay Contract Bridge Club’s free Australia Day event for fun, friendship, cards, morning tea and a classic sausage sizzle—all are warmly welcome! Photos supplied
RUNNING
Many thanks to Race Director Jim Ford for his outstanding time and effort in organising the 2025/2026 Shawn’s Splash n Dash Biathlon Summer Series. The penultimate race of the series attracted more than 25 athletes of varying ages and abilities, with everyone rewarded for their efforts with icy Zooper Doopers after the event.
The final race in the series will be held next Sunday at 4:30pm at the ARC (Aquatic and Recreational Complex), followed by a mini presentation to announce the final points tally and crown the male and female champions. Due to the pool closing at 6pm, there will be a very brief thank you to all for their attendance and support. Mackay Road Runners hope everyone has enjoyed the series and congratulate Jim on another successful event.
The formal Mackay Road Runners calendar of events will commence on the 22nd of February with a 5km/10km run from the President’s residence at 24 Johnson Street, West Mackay. The Tilse Toddle has been a popular fixture on the program for many years, with post-run goodies provided to help participants refuel and rehydrate. All are welcome, and the full calendar will be available on the website very soon.
Many thanks to the incoming 2026 Mackay Road Runners Committee for once again volunteering their time and contributing to the club’s ongoing success as it moves into its 50th year. Watch this space for updates on the 50th Anniversary dinner to be held in April.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Todd Turner is the master of kicking up his heels as he celebrates his final lap of the track section of the Mackay Road Runners Splash n Dash off season Biathlon Series.
Alana Knezevic celebrates her birthday alongside Derek Woods with a scorching 6km run in the 30 minutes track session before hitting the pool for a well deserved swim.
James and Lauren Dunne relax after their super efforts on the track and in the pool.
Mums and Dads were urged on by their children at the track section of the Shawn’s Splash n Dash Biathlon Series.
Carolyn Mapes (left) enjoys a catchup with birthday girl, Alana Knezevic (right).
Ashley Miles and James Dunne lead a group of athletes as they complete the tough track section of the Biathlon Splash n Dash.
Carmel Mahon is happy with her efforts on the track in the testing conditions.
Excited Splash n Dash participants relax after their amazing efforts on the track and in the pool.
Jo Hughes and Andrew Short make light work of the 30 minute track portion of the Splash n Dash Biathlon event. Photos supplied
CARDS
A friendly crowd gathered at the Senior Citizens Centre on Saturday afternoon for the first Cards session of 2026, enjoying an afternoon of games, laughter and catching up with friends.
The popular event held on the third Saturday of every month offers a relaxed and welcoming environment for locals to socialise and stay connected, with both new and returning players encouraged to take part.
Anyone interested in joining in for Cards or Bowls at the Senior Citizens Centre is invited to contact Val on 0408 075 877. New players are always warmly welcomed.
Photo source: Mackay & District Senior Citizens' Association Inc.
SOFTBALL
The 2026 National Softball Championships have begun, with the Under-16 girls recently competing in Mirrabooka, Perth. The team fought hard throughout the tournament to reach the Grand Final, where they came up against New South Wales. Unfortunately, they were unable to secure first position, but the girls are to be congratulated on their outstanding effort and determination. Evie Grace pitched strongly throughout the competition, supported by assistant coach Allan James, with the team giving their best right to the final game.
Evie will now have a couple of days’ rest before heading back into action, representing Queensland in the Under-18 Girls side in Blacktown, NSW, from 20 to 25 January. She is expected to return home just in time for the start of the school year.
Meanwhile, Jaxon Maluga will also take to the field in Blacktown, representing Queensland in the Under-18 Men’s team from 20 to 25 January, where he will pitch for the side. After a short break, he will join fellow teammate James Allan to compete in the Under-23 Queensland Men’s team at Redlands, Brisbane, from 3 to 8 February. The players will be supported by scorer and statistician Debbie Carey. The team will be hoping to build on the success of previous campaigns and bring home a strong result.
Adding to the local representation, Riley James will head to Hawker, ACT, to compete with the Queensland Patriots Open Men’s team at the National Championships from 3 to 8 March.
Mackay’s softball community is proud to see so many talented local players representing Queensland on the national stage and wishes them all the best in their upcoming competitions.
Contributed by Cheryl Martin
Mackay softball stars Evie Grace, Jaxon Maluga, James Allan and Riley James represent Queensland at the 2026 National Championships across multiple age groups. Photos supplied
Residents visiting the Northern Beaches Community Hub can now enjoy easier access to sports and recreation, with a new high-tech locker system offering free use of sporting equipment.
The recently installed SportsBox lockers allow community members to borrow a basketball, futsal ball or netball at no cost, providing a simple way for locals to make the most of the hub’s indoor sports court.
Users simply need to download the SportsBox app and create an account. There are no sign-up fees or ongoing cost to borrowers.
Equipment in the smart lockers is free to use, but a credit or debit card must be added to accounts for instances where balls aren’t returned.
Since it was installed last month on December 19, there's already been hours of usage of the available equipment.
For more information about how to use the lockers use your favourite search engine to find SportsBox equipped by Decathlon.
The newly installed SportsBox means you don't need to have your own gear to use the facilities at the Northern Beaches Community Hub. Photo supplied
RUNNING
The 2026 Shawn’s Summer Social Splash n Dash Biathlon Series resumed last Sunday, getting underway at 4.30pm at the ARC (Aquatic & Recreational Complex) in Ooralea.
Club Captain and Race Director Jim Ford was thanked for generously donating his time to volunteer the free, informal social group training sessions held during the Mackay Road Runners Club off season. Mr Ford also offers free track training year-round at the ARC on Wednesdays at 5.30pm. No RSVP is required for either off-season social event, with participants asked to arrive 15 minutes prior to the session start, pay the ARC facility’s $5 entry fee at the Pool Kiosk, before receiving a briefing from Mr Ford on the training program criteria.
The formal Mackay Road Runners season will commence next month, with the official calendar still to be ratified at the club’s Annual General Meeting on Monday, 12 January, at 5.30pm. The AGM will be held in the North Queensland Bulk Ports meeting room at the Mackay Harbour Marina, with all welcome to attend.
The meeting will also see the election of the incoming 2026 committee, with the current 2025 executive stepping down and all positions becoming vacant and open for nominations and subsequent voting. Members unable to attend are welcome to submit input or a proxy vote.
For any queries, please contact the Club via the Secretary - secretary@mackayroadrunners.com or Janelle Tilse 0400 997432 publicityofficer@mackayroadrunners.com
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Over twenty runners and supporters braved the damp conditions for the resumption on the 2026 Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series hosted by Mackay Road Runners Club Captain and race Director, Jim Ford.
Todd Turner leads Andrew Flanagan ahead of a small group in the initial half of the 30 minute track running session.
David Isbister sensibly paced himself through the 100% humidity in the 30 minute track session.
Alana Knezevic sprints the 30 minute track session prior to the 30 minute pool portion of the Biathlon Series.
Multi tasking Race Director, Jim Ford bowling to the grandkids Vivian & Harvey whilst Mum & Dad, Alana & Adam run the track section of the Biathlon Series.
Talented athlete, Archer Flanagan looking forward to an awesome 2026. Photos supplied.
The Mackay Table Tennis Association has completed its most significant facility upgrade in almost 50 years, installing full air-conditioning within their hall — a move President Janice Kent says clearly sets the sport apart from many others in the region.
The hall, which opened in 1971 and was last significantly expanded in 1975, has long been a staple of the Mackay sporting landscape.
Janice says the latest upgrade directly responds to conditions many athletes know all too well.
“In Mackay, heat isn’t an inconvenience — it’s often the deciding factor in whether people can safely participate in sport,” Janice said.
“A lot of sports still rely on outdoor venues, large fans or ventilation and hope that conditions are manageable. We’ve taken a different approach.”
The new system delivers consistent cooling across the entire facility, eliminating the uneven airflow and heat pockets common in many indoor venues.
“This isn’t partial air-conditioning or cooling in select areas,” Janice said.
“Every table, every session, every player benefits from the same conditions — juniors, seniors, social players and competition athletes alike.”
Janice said the difference is immediately noticeable when compared to non-air-conditioned sporting environments.
“When people are choosing how to stay active in Mackay, they’re weighing up comfort, safety and sustainability,” she said.
“Heat stress, dehydration and fatigue are real issues, especially in summer. We’ve removed that barrier entirely.”
She said the upgrade allows players to focus on performance and enjoyment rather than survival.
“People shouldn’t have to endure extreme conditions just to stay active,” Janice said.
“Sport should challenge you athletically — not thermally.”
Importantly, Janice emphasised that comfort doesn’t come at a premium price.
“Compared to many other sports, table tennis is very reasonably priced, and that’s by design,” she said.
“Affordability is one of our core values. We recognise that cost matters to families, retirees and anyone trying to stay active without stretching their budget.”
She said the combination of full air-conditioning and low participation costs is rare.
“In many sports, you’re paying more while still playing in heat,” Janice said.
“Here, you get a modern, climate-controlled facility at a cost that remains accessible.”
The upgrade also strengthens the club’s contribution to the broader Mackay community.
“This isn’t just about table tennis players,” Janice said.
“It’s about increasing access to sport for people who may not feel comfortable playing outdoors, or in venues without proper climate control.”
She said the benefits extend to seniors, juniors, people returning to exercise, and those managing health considerations.
“Air-conditioning makes sport safer, more inclusive and more sustainable,” she said.
“That matters in a growing regional city like Mackay.”
The club’s Patron, Nigel Dalton MP, Member for Mackay, has supported the milestone, recognising the importance of modern community sporting infrastructure.
“Facilities like this, play a key role in keeping people active year-round,” Janice said.
“We’re proud to offer something that genuinely improves participation rather than limiting it.”
As Mackay continues to grow, Janice believes the upgrade positions table tennis as a clear alternative to heat-exposed sports.
“We’re not competing on who can endure the toughest conditions,” she said.
“We’re offering a smarter, safer and more comfortable way to stay active — without out pricing to both existing and new members.
Supplied by Janice Kent
Photo supplied
Mackay Contract Bridge club’s Christmas party held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, proved to be a standout event, drawing record attendance and delivering plenty of festive fun. The evening was made possible through the hard work of organisers and the generosity of contributors, whose efforts ensured a memorable celebration. Appreciation was also extended to those who contributed to the 19 hampers, purchased tickets and donated additional prizes, helping make the night a resounding success and a highlight of the club’s social calendar.
Photo source: Mackay Contract Bridge Club
Mackay businesses now have a game-changing way to invest in their employees’ health and wellbeing with Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program. Designed for organisations looking to prioritise fitness, health, and workplace wellness, these memberships give staff access to ultramodern facilities, expert-led classes, and personalised training support — all tailored to the needs of a busy workforce.
Whether your team wants to lift, stretch, spin, or recover, Fitness Cartel has it covered.
Members enjoy 24/7 access to all clubs, over 500 pieces of strength and cardio equipment, and dedicated zones for Reformer Pilates, functional training, and cycling. The Mackay location also features a fully equipped Wellness Centre, including hot rock saunas, hot and cold plunge pools, Normatec compression boots, red light therapy, and a range of post-workout recovery options to suit every need.
Group fitness is a highlight for corporate members, with unlimited access to more than 100 classes per week across 4 different training studios inside the Mackay Club. Options range from Les Mills’ Body Combat, Body Pump, Body Balance And RPM, to yoga, Mat Pilates, Zumba, and functional training sessions. Virtual classes are also available 24/7, offering flexibility for early birds or night owls.
For businesses with families on the team, Kids Cartel provides a safe, engaging crèche and playground, ensuring parents can focus on their workout while children enjoy supervised play. Employees can also enjoy the Cartel Café, offering nutritious meals and snacks to fuel their workouts, or browse the on-site nutrition and pro shop.
Corporate packages at Fitness Cartel are designed to elevate workplace wellness programs.
Beyond improving fitness levels, they promote team bonding, boost morale, and create a positive, healthy work culture. Monthly body scans, personal training sessions, and precision programming help staff track progress and achieve their health goals, making corporate wellness a practical and measurable benefit for businesses.
“The Fitness Cartel Corporate Membership Program is all about empowering teams to reach their health and fitness goals, while giving employers an easy way to support workplace wellbeing,” said Mackay Co-Franchisee Cliff Forster.
With multiple locations and more planned nationwide, employees have seamless access to premium fitness facilities no matter where they are. For Mackay businesses looking to invest in their teams, Fitness Cartel’s Corporate Membership Program offers the ultimate combination of fitness, recovery, and community, all under one roof.
For more information or to arrange a corporate membership, contact Fitness Cartel Mackay at mackay@fitnesscartel.com.au or call (07) 4881 0365
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North Mackay Bowls club Presentation night was held on Saturday 29/11/2025, with many of our bowlers and significant others attending.
Following a lovely dinner prepared by the super chefs at Goosies, the Ladies section held their presentation first, with many excited winners receiving certificates and renumeration.
Results:
Champ Pairs : Deb Mackenzie and Chris Woo
Champ Triples : Nug Pratt, Val De Pinto, Marie Bragg
Champ Fours : Lorna Bowers, Deb Mackenzie, Coral Francis, Donna Gordon
B Pairs : Ann Smith ans Min Andrew
Over 70’s : Lorna Bowers
Graded 4’s Lorraine Silman, Doris Dodds, Helen Fleming, Min Andrew
Graded 3 B Triples : Lois Deguara, Helen Fleming, Sue Roscoe
Graded 2 B Triples : Donna Gordon, Carmel Bell, Hilary Jones-Rowan
Consistency : Cheryl Corbett
Division 1 Winning Pennant Team going on to play in Emerald ( Leichhardt District ) and then to Tweed Heads(Qld Division) Coming 4th in the State.
Well done to all the ladies in the team.
The Bowler of the Year award was presented to the player who claimed the Championship Singles, ‘B’ Singles and Under 70s Singles titles, with the honour bestowed on Brenda Trannore.
Brenda graciously accepted the accolade, delivering a heartfelt speech in which she thanked those who had supported and guided her throughout her bowls journey, acknowledging the achievement as a significant milestone in both her life and her bowls career.
Amazing and Well Done Brenda.
The Mens Section had their 2025 Presentation next, with many of the bowlers happy with their performances on the green an in competitions, Pennant and away games.
Results:
Mixed Pairs : Neil Blucher and Lois Deguara
Mixed Fours ; Pam Spencer, Ken Rix, Carmel Bell, Dave Mc Kendry
B Singles : Eric Galletly,
B Pairs : Eric Gallantly John Kennell
Senior Singles : Geoff Ollett
2 B Triples : Andrew Coates, Clive Wales, Peter Blackburn.
3 B Triples : Shane Trannore, Wayne Trannore, Dave McKendry
A Fours : Ben Crocker, Col Crocker, Ian Beveridge, Joe Crocker
A Pairs : Mick Walsh and Steve Lane
A Singles : Alan Cooney
Club Person of the Year was voted in as a tie this year, and went to Wayne and Shane Trennore. It was a super evening for the Trannore name in bowls for our Club.
Wayne Trannore responded on behalf of his brother Shane, also thanking those involved with the club and their fantastic award.
Contributed by Sue Hazledine
Deb Mackenzie and Chris Woo
Deb Mackenzie,Donna Gordon, Coral Francis And Lorna Bowers.
Brenda Trannore and Alan Cooney
Lois Deguara and Neil Blucher
Winning Division 2 Pennant Team
Alan Cooney and Ben Crocker.
Brenda Trannore.
Shane and Wayne Trannore. Photos supplied
Results For Week Ending Saturday 13th December 2025
Monday 8th December 2025 – 6 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Jewel Schmidt - Janine Rodgers
2nd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 2nd Shirley Worland - Janice Mansfield
3rd Geoffrey Patterson - Noel Bugeia 3rd Jayne Johnstone - Clare Wallace
Tuesday 9th December 2025 – 3 ½ Table Howell Green Points
1st Eric Goodchild - Noel Bugeia
2nd Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy
3rd Richard Wix - Tex Sheedy
Wednesday 10th December 2025 –10 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Martin Pearce - Sue Mayer-Miller
2nd Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 2nd Janet Hansen - Alan Brown
3rd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 3rd Gwen Liddell - Anne Lutz
4th Annette Howe - Diane Stokes 4th Mary Rose Ramsden - Patrick Rasmussen
5th Lorna Shuttlewood - Tex Sheedy 5th Sandy Patterson - Joy Hold
Thursday Evening 11th December 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Joy Hold - Patricia Garner 1st Noel Bugeia - Tex Sheedy
2nd Geoff Taylor - Anne Lutz 2nd Martin Pearce - Simon Barnes
Friday 12th December 2025 –7 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Joy Robinson - Geoff Taylor 1st David Ting - Ming Ting
2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix 2nd Julie O'neill - Ann Whitmore
3rd Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia 3rd Christine Nice - Diane Cox
3rd Martin Pearce - Gwen Liddell
Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section A (Christmas Party )– 8 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Victor Mason - Ann Whitmore 1st Marilin Robins - Mick Robins
2nd Geoff Taylor - Margaret Lane 2nd Faye Wright - Tex Sheedy
3rd Monica Darley - David Hird 3rd Diane Stokes - Annie Lynch
4th Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless 4th Noel Bugeia - Pamela Finger
Saturday 13th December 2025 – Section B (Christmas Party)– 9 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 1st Janet Hansen - Thelma Caruana
2nd Ming Ting - David Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers - Richard Wix
3rd Alan Brown - Frances Brown 3rd Susan Gibson - Karen Caldwell
4th Christopher Meyers - Sandy Patterson 4th Eric Goodchild - Debra Goodchild
Contributed by Robert Carless
Winners of Christmas Party days play Section B: L/R Thelma, Janet, Vic and Anne. Photo supplied
With temperatures feeling closer to 35 degrees and no rain in sight, it was a very Mackay-style lead-up to Christmas at this week’s Bluewater Quay Social Run. Forget a white Christmas, runners were treated to hot, testing conditions during the afternoon’s 5km and 10km events.
Race Director Andrew Short was thanked for delivering another successful run, despite the heat, with welcome relief provided by Zooper Doopers and Red Dog’s rehydration options, which were greatly appreciated by participants.
The next Bluewater Quay social run, commencing at 4.30pm next Sunday, will be the final event before Christmas. Runners are encouraged to come along for a festive group photo and stay on for a Christmas drink afterwards. Some of the best photos may feature in this Mackay Life Newspaper and the Mackay Road Runners 2026 calendar, described humorously as a firefighter-style calendar, but with clothes.
Congratulations were extended to all participants for their efforts in challenging conditions, with a reminder for runners to continue training and racing in such conditions to stay healthy and safe.
“Thank you to Mackay & Whitsunday Life magazine for their awesome support of the Mackay Road Runners Club!”
Craig Joynson with water spray bottle and Natasha Joynson tackle the Bluewater Quay social 5km run with ease.
Jo Hughes - “Are we there yet?”
Race Director Andrew Short makes light work of the Bluewater Quay social 10km.
Carmel Mahon and Stephen Oberg elated to cross the Bluewater Quay social 10km finish line.
It’s a thumbs up from everyone at the Bluewater Quay Social 5k, 10km (left to right) – Len Howarth, Derek Woods, Carmel Mahon, Jo Hughes, Stephen Oberg, David Isbister and Andrew Short. Photos supplied
Two of the Rules of Running Middle Distance Squad athletes made their way down to Melbourne to compete at the 2025 Chemist Warehouse Australian Athletics All Schools Championships from the 4th–7th of December.
Millie Groom competed in the 3000m, placing 5th in Australia and achieving a huge 26-second PB. The following day she raced the 2000m Steeplechase, placing 6th in Australia with a 12-second PB.
Ayla Moon competed in the 400m, qualifying fastest and then winning the Gold Medal the next day; her second National title this year.
Within an hour she was back on the track for the 1500m final, holding her position and remaining in contention until the last 300m, finishing 9th in Australia.
On the final day of competition, Ayla ran the 800m and won the Silver Medal.
Ayla will now take a short rest before building into cross country season, balancing workload with LAQ States in March.
Millie will also have a short rest before shifting focus toward Triathlon States in February, then building into cross country season alongside the squad.
The squad has had a huge 2025 with success across both Cross Country and Track & Field — securing multiple medals, PBs, State and National titles. Many of our senior athletes were also selected for Regional, State, National and Athletics North Queensland representative teams, highlighting the depth and maturity of the program.
Looking ahead, 2026 will see the squad expand from three to four fully supported training squads, allowing even more athletes to join while maintaining high-quality, individualised programming. Coach Belinda Rule was also proudly awarded ANQ’s Coach of the Year for 2025.
Huge things are on the horizon for 2026, especially with the squad partnering with Momentum High Risk Training through amazing sponsorship opportunities.
Contributed by Belinda Rule
Two Mackay middle-distance athletes delivered standout performances at the Australian All Schools Championships, with Millie Groom securing major PBs and Ayla Moon claiming gold and silver among her national results. Photo credit: Kylie Nyssen.
Results for week ending Saturday 6th December 2025
Monday 1st December 2025 – 7 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st DAVID TING - ERIC GOODCHILD 1st GEOFF TAYLOR - GEOFFREY PATTERSON
2nd JAN HARRIS - JULIE O'NEILL 2nd DIANE HOLEWA - MAX HOLEWA
3rd BARBARA TAIT - MARGARET LANE 3rd JEWEL SCHMIDT - RICHARD WIX
4th DIANE STOKES - EDWARD KLIESE
Tuesday 2nd December 2025 – 4 ½ Table Howell Green Points
1st JOHN MCGEE - MICK KING 3rd ERIC GOODCHILD - NOEL BUGEIA
2nd ERROL MORRIS - MICK ROBINS 4th PATRICIA GARNER - ADRIAN WESTCOTT
Wednesday 3rd December 2025 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st DAVID TING - ERIC GOODCHILD 1st SANDY PATTERSON - GEOFFREY PATTERSON
2nd MAX HOLEWA - DIANE HOLEWA 2nd MING TING - DEBRA GOODCHILD
3rd JOY ROBINSON - ROBERT CARLESS 3rd GWEN LIDDELL - ANNE LUTZ
4th MONICA DARLEY - FRANCES BROWN 4th JEWEL SCHMIDT - ALAN BROWN
Thursday Evening 4th December 2025 – 4 Table Howell Green Points
1st KEN SEANIGER - ROBERT CARLESS
2nd IAN CRUICKSHANK - ADRIAN WESTCOTT
3rd GEOFF TAYLOR - ANNE LUTZ
4TH MARY CRUICKSHANK - MICK KING
Friday 5 December 2025 –6 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st JANINE RODGERS - RICHARD WIX 1st VICTOR MASON - JOSIE CROWLEY
2nd TEX SHEEDY - NOEL BUGEIA 2nd MARTIN PEARCE - GWEN LIDDELL
3rd JOY ROBINSON - GEOFF TAYLOR 3rd MICK KING - GEOFF COWAN
Saturday 6th December 2025 – 10 ½ Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South East/West
1st JOY ROBINSON - KEN SEANIGER 1st FRANCES BROWN - ALAN BROWN
2nd RICHARD WIX - TEX SHEEDY 2nd MING TING - DAVID TING
3rd JANELLE CONROY - ROBERT CARLESS 3rd ERROL MORRIS - IAN GASKELL
4th LAURA HOWLAND - JANINE RODGERS 4th ANNE LUTZ - RODNEY MILES
5th ANNETTE HOWE - VICKI HOWARD 5th LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD - SUSAN WRIGHT
Contributed by Robert Carless
President Francie Brown with the Martin Pearce and Sue Mayer-Miller winners of the 2025 Mackay Bridge Club Novice Pairs Championship. Photo supplied
The November instalment of Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series wrapped up with thanks to Race Director Jim Ford, ahead of a well-earned break throughout December. The popular series will return on the first Sunday afternoon of January 2026, keeping the same time, place and format for athletes eager to restart their routine.
For those still keen to maintain fitness over the holiday period, Mackay Road Runners will continue meeting at 4.30pm each Sunday at Bluewater Quay for a casual 5km or 10km run , or any distance in between, with post-run hydration available for purchase at The Red Dog.
Runners are reminded to stay mindful of hydration before, during and after training or racing, particularly in the extreme weather currently affecting the region, to ensure optimal performance and recovery.
Social 5km Brings Festive Cheer To Bluewater Quay
A cheerful group of Mackay Road Runners, Natasha, Craig, Alex, Carmel, Andrew, David and Len, enjoyed a festive social 5km at Bluewater Quay as the club eases into December. The relaxed run came as Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series pauses for the month, ahead of its return to the ARC on the first Sunday afternoon of January 2026.
Runners made the most of the pre-Christmas atmosphere, enjoying the option of a 5km or 10km loop, a refreshment at The Red Dog, and even a quick photo in front of the Christmas tree before heading home to tackle weekend chores.
The club says it “loves this photo of our regular runners”.
Updates on the 2026 Mackay Road Runners calendar of events will be shared soon, as preparations continue for a milestone year.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
(left to right) Andrew, Rebecca and Chloe take in the ominous sky before they hit the track for 30 minutes in the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
(left ro right) Jose, Carolyn and Alana ease into the 30 minute track session as part of the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
Race Director & Mackay Road Runners Club Captain, Jim Ford supporting Adam Knezevic (right) as he completes as many laps as possible in the 30 minute track session.
Regular participants, Vivian and Harvey Knezevic enjoy the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series.
Phoebe Short having a great time now she’s finished the 30 min pool section of Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
Andrew Flanagan maintains excellent form on the track before the swim portion of the Biathlon Series. Photos supplied
North Mackay Ladies have had another amazing year on the bowling greens. Winning the Premier shield for the 5th year in succession, which is an amazing achievement for the club.
In the district, points are awarded to each club for Winners and Runners Up in the following categories. Master Pairs, Symons Shield, Johnstone Shield, Pennants and District Champion of Champions.
The District Presentation for the shield was held recently and presented to our President Hilary Jones-Rowan.
Photographed are some of the Members of this great club with the Perpetual Trophy.
Contributed by Sue Hazledine
Photo supplied
Results For Week Ending Sunday 30th November 2025
Monday 24 November 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Geoff Taylor - Nancy Martin
2nd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 2nd Marilin Robins - Mick Robins
3rd Edward Kliese - Diane Stokes 3rd Barbara Tait - Margaret Lane
4th Pamela Finger - Ming Ting 4th Helen Van Den Broek - Jan Harris
Tuesday 25 November 2025 – 5 ½ Table Howell Green Points
1st Janet Hansen - Diane Morgan 4th Richard Wix - Tex Sheedy
=2nd Eric Goodchild - Noel Bugeia 5th John Mcgee - Mick King
=2nd Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy
Wednesday 26 November 2025 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points (Nationwide Pairs)
North/South East/West
1st Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Janet Hansen - Alan Brown
2nd Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 2nd Tex Sheedy - Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 3rd Ming Ting - Debra Goodchild
4th Monica Darley - Frances Brown 4th Geoffrey Patterson - Sandy Patterson
Thursday Evening 27 November 2025 – 4 Table Howell Green Points
1st Frances Brown - Ann Whitmore
2nd Ken Seaniger - Robert Carless
3rd Annie Lynch - Sandra Morris
4th Jan Harris - Tex Sheedy
Friday 28 November 2025 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Joy Robinson - Geoff Taylor 1st David Ting - Ming Ting
2nd Susan Wright - Geoffrey Patterson 2nd Martin Pearce - Gwen Liddell
3rd Geoff Cowan - Mick King 3rd Lynne O'neill - Roland Taylor
Saturday 29 November 2025 – 8 ½ Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Ming Ting - David Ting 1st Christine Nice - Mary Rose Ramsden
2nd Annette Howe - Jewel Schmidt 2nd Lorna Shuttlewood - Susan Wright
3rd Joy Robinson - Ken Seaniger 3rd Mick King - Ian Gaskell
4th Geoff Taylor - Margaret Lane 4th Susan Ross - Laura Howland
Sunday 23 November 2025 – Novice Pairs Championships Round 1 – 6 Table Mitchell - Red Points
North/South East/West
1st Faith Hutchinson - Geoff Cowan 1st Lynne O'neill - Karen Caldwell
2nd Joy Hold - Gillian Mccallum 2nd Sandy Patterson - Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd Rodney Miles - Christine Morrison 3rd Martin Pearce - Sue Mayer-Miller
Sunday 30 November 2025 –Novice Pairs Championships Round 2 – 6 Table Mitchell - Red Points
North/South East/West
1st Sue Mayer-Miller - Martin Pearce 1st Joy Hold - Gillian Mccallum
2nd Faith Hutchinson - Geoff Cowan 2nd Ian Gaskell - Carol Gaskell
3rd Mary Rose Ramsden - Sandy Patterson 3rd Jewel Schmidt - Annette Howe
Sunday 30 November 2025 –Novice Pairs Championships Final – Red Points
1st Martn Pearce - Sue Mayer-Miller 4th Sandy Patterson - Mary Rose Ramsden
2nd Joy Hold - Gillian Mccallum 5th Karen Caldwell - Lynne O'neill
3rd Geoff Cowan - Faith Hutchinson 6th Christine Morrison - Rodney Miles
Contributed by Robert Carless
Mackay junior mountain biker Max Teague produced a strong start to his national season at the AusCycling XCO National Series – Round 1 & 2 in Mt Crosby, coming away with a 2nd place on Saturday and a 3rd place on Sunday in the U15 Men’s category.
Racing took place in hot, humid conditions on a steep and technical course. The U15 riders started just behind the U17 field, which led to a chaotic opening climb when several of the U17 front riders slipped out. The crash caused a chain reaction through the bunch, leaving Max and others off their bikes and forced to run the first couple of hills to get back into the race.
Despite the disrupted start, Max worked his way through the field on Saturday and positioned himself well for the final straight. He finished with a close, hard-fought sprint to take 2nd place.
Storms on Sunday morning left the course muddy and slippery. Max got away cleanly at the start but, like many riders, struggled with the heat as the race went on. He held his pace and managed to secure 3rd place to round out a consistent weekend.
Max’s father, Alan, said it was one of the tougher race weekends Max has faced, with the heat, humidity, and technical course all adding to the challenge. He said Max handled the chaos on the first climb well and was happy with how he sprinted for second on Saturday, and how he pushed through difficult conditions on Sunday to take third. Max is now looking ahead to Rounds 3 and 4 in Bendigo in three weeks’ time.
Mackay Cycles owner and sponsor Kyle Marwood said Max showed resilience across both rounds and handled the conditions with maturity. He said the ability to reset after the opening crash and still finish on the podium both days shows strong development and a good foundation for the rest of the season.
Contributed by Kyle Marwood
Mackay junior mountain biker Max Teague opened his national season with impressive consistency, securing 2nd and 3rd place finishes in challenging conditions at the AusCycling XCO National Series in Mt Crosby. Photos supplied
President's Award to Charlie Payne for 62 years hard work and dedication to our sport. Player of the Year awarded to Remy Zhan and Junior Player of the Year awarded to Logan Brown.
Mackay Closed Tuesday Morning: Averal Hodges Memorial Division 1 Singles Winner Andrea Nicholson, Runner Up Allan Robins. Division 1 Doubles Winners Tony Bowman and Kevin Abbott, Runner Up George Camilleri and Coral Morgan. Carrie Hills Trophy Division 2 Winner Josie Davis, Runner Up John Hamelink.
Division 2 Doubles Winners Gloria Vella and Gerry Synnott, Runners Up Louise Gould and Sharon Muller. Rosie Dittman Trophy Division 3 Singles Winner Sharon Muller, Runner Up Allison Day.
Jan Meng Memorial Doubles Winners Gerry Synnott and Tony Bowman, Runners Up Andrea Nicholson and Lawrie Bradshaw.
Mackay Closed Juniors: Under 11 Mixed Singles Winner Remy Zhan, Runner Up Mainak Dodiya. Under 13 Boys Singles Winner Remy Zhan, Runner Up Logan Brown. Under 15 Boys Singles Winner Trent Day, Runner Up Logan Brown. Under 18 Mixed Singles Winner Lily Boland, Runner Up Trent Day. Junior Mixed Doubles Winners Lily Boland and Remy Zhan, Runners Up Trent Day and Ariah Haupapa.
Mackay Closed Veterans: LADIES SECTION Over 30/40 Singles Winner Emma Widdup, Runner Up Andrea Nicholson, Over 50 Singles Winner Emma Widdup, Runner Up Anne Sheridan, Over 60 Singles Winner Anne Sheridan, Runner Up Donna Abbott, Over 70 Winner Judy Zahn, Runner Up Pam Joyce, Over 80 Winner Pam Joyce, Runner Up Coral Morgan. MEN'S SECTION Over 30 Winner Goncalo Serra-Gageiro, Runner Up Mick Ruhl, Over 40 Winner Mick Ruhl, Runner Up Steven Whiting, Over 50 Winner Steven Whiting, Runner Up Graeme Walker, Over 60 Winner Graeme Walker, Runner Up Geoff Denman, Over 70 Winner Ian McKay, Runner Up Tony Bowman, Combined Veterans Doubles Winners Steven Whiting and Josie Davis, Runners Up Emma Widdup and Cheryl Pearson.
Mackay Closed: Open Ladies Singles Roy McLean Winner Emma Widdup, Runner Up Anne Sheridan, Men's Singles Jack Cooney Memorial Trophy Winner Goncalo Serra-Gageiro, Runner Up Mick Ruhl. Ladies Open Doubles Winners Emma Widdup and Lily Boland, Runners Up Anne Sheridan and Janice Kent, Men's Open Doubles Winners Goncalo Serra-Gageiro and Mick Ruhl, Runners Up Steven Whiting and Jacob Whelan, Mixed Open Doubles Winners Steven Whiting and Emma Widdup, Runners Up Mick Ruhl and Andrea Nicholson.
Division 2 Ladies Singles Christine Moohin Trophy Winner Donna Abbott, Runner Up Andrea Nicholson, Men's Singles Roy McLean Trophy Winner Ian McKay, Runner Up Mark Sleeman. Division 2 Doubles Winners Janice Kent and Donna Abbott, Runners Up Graeme Walker and Allan Edwards. Division 3 Combined Singles K & D Abbott Trophy Winner Judy Zahn, Runner Up Liz Burton. Division 3 Doubles Winners Pam Joyce and Kevin Abbott, Logan Brown and Liz Burton. Veterans Representatives Allan Edwards, Andrea Nicholson, Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Graeme Walker, Anne Sheridan, Noreen Frederickson, Vince Boeske and Daniel Warfield.
Contributed by Andrea Nicholson
photos supplied
Charlie Payne first picked up a table tennis bat at the age of nine. This year, after an incredible 62 years of service to the sport, he quietly stepped away from the game—but not from the community he helped shape.
Charlie has been at the heart of the Mackay Table Tennis Association for decades. He served in key leadership roles, including President and Secretary, and long before computers handled tournament draws, Charlie created them manually for major events such as the Mackay Open and Closed.
Beyond administration, Charlie brought the game to life through words. With a background as Sports Editor at the Daily Mercury, his reports didn’t just share scores—they captured the drama, excitement, and human moments behind each match. Whether published in print or later on Facebook, Charlie’s stories made the action leap off the page, enabling readers to visualise each rally with vivid clarity.
Photography became another of Charlie’s lasting contributions. Often seen on the sidelines with camera in hand, he quietly documented thousands of matches, capturing candid moments and player milestones that are now treasured memories within the club.
Charlie’s dedication extended beyond the court. He volunteered at bingo nights for many years and was always ready to lend a hand. His wife Rhonda recalls their first wedding anniversary being spent at a Table Tennis Committee meeting on 10 November 1980—an example of the commitment Charlie gave to the sport.
In his playing days, Charlie travelled widely, competing in Cairns, Townsville, Ayr, Rockhampton and Bundaberg. He earned his State Umpire Accreditation and, true to his generous nature, never declined a hit—regardless of a player’s level. That openness left a lasting impression on generations of players.
Family was central to Charlie’s journey in the sport. In 1985, he encouraged his niece Andrea to attend a junior table tennis camp, soon followed by her brother Mark.
“We’ve had great family battles over the years—what we called the ‘Payne Family War’,” Andrea says.
“Mark and I are so proud of Uncle Charlie. He’s supported us and so many others through his encouragement and quiet leadership.”
Former President Rosie Dittman said, “Whether it was a cheeky forehand or a perfectly timed photo, Charlie made the sport better for all of us.
“Thanks for the memories, the matches, and the moments you helped capture.”
Charlie Payne’s contributions—on the court, behind the lens, and through his words—have helped shape Mackay Table Tennis into one of Queensland’s most respected associations.
photos supplied
RUNNING
Congratulations to all participants in the fourth event of the Shawn’s Splash n Dash Off-Season Social Biathlon Series for 2025/2026. A big thank you goes to Jim Ford for once again coordinating the series, and to Adam Knezevic for keeping everyone cool with those all-important Zooper Doopers.
Despite the very warm conditions, participants showed great awareness and paced themselves sensibly. Next Sunday marks the halfway point of the series, followed by a full break throughout December. Events will resume in January 2026 to complete the program.
The biathlon series is free to join; however, participants are reminded to pay the $5 entry fee at the pool kiosk before accessing the track and pool facilities. A gold coin donation is also appreciated to help cover the cost of the Zooper Doopers.
See you all again very soon!
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Several participants enjoying the 2025/2026 Shawn’s Summer Social Splash n Dash Series post event cool down and zooper doopers!
4227 – Adam Knezevic leads in the initial stages of the track portion of Shawn’s Splash n Dash Biathlon Series.
4233 – Husband of the Year, Craig Joynson sprays water and a bit of light relief in the humid conditions on his wife, Natasha.
Andrew Short (left), Jo Hughes (centre) and Judy Zahn (right) in fine form as they easily tackle the track in the very humid conditions.
4278 – Stephen Oberg leads runners as the direction was reversed for the 2nd part of the track section.
4247 – Jose Short lets the photographer know how she’s feeling but with a big smile!
4323 – Alana Knezevic (right) sets a good pace with fellow runner, Russell Holmes.
4250 – Carmel Mahon returning to some of her previous good form after a recent illness.
4218 - Len Howarth (right) encourages granddaughter Cloe (left) before she heads out onto the 30 minute track session.
4263 – Andrew Flanagan in good pace seeking as many laps as he can in the 30 minutes track session. Photos supplied
Sunset Bay Outriggers have recently returned from the Aocra National Sprint Titles held on the Gold Coast, competing against Australia's best outrigger crews with age divisions ranging from U12 to over 80yrs of age, in V12, 500m, 1000m and 1500m events over 3 days. With this being a first time attendance for many of the Sunset paddlers to a National event, the nerves were on high alert but once the butterflies were gone the crews went to another level of competition.
Sunset Bay Master 40+men and Golden 60+ men crews have qualified to be invited to compete against the worlds best paddlers in 2026, in V12, 500m and 1000m.
The club received the following medals:
The Senior Master women 50+ also qualified for the V12 and will await to see if any invitation is extended to the crew for other races.
This crew has bragging rights over the 2 men crews for a faster time in the V12 and will be content with this for quiet awhile.
Numerous Sunset Bay crews made finals and finished in the top 10 of Australia, all coaches are very proud of the club efforts that have definitely put Mackay and the club on the map, especially with the new club uniform looking so flash.
The Sunset Bay outriggers are located at Eimeo Beach and will be hosting 'Come and Try' days in the off season, follow Sunset Bay Outrigger Club on Facebook.
Contributed by Renee Martin
Sunset Bay Outriggers have made waves on the national stage, qualifying multiple crews for the 2026 World Sprint Titles in Singapore after a standout medal-winning performance at the Aocra National Sprint Titles. Photos supplied
BRIDGE
Mackay Contract Bridge Results
Sunday was the first week of the Novice Pairs Championships (<100 MP’s) with the same partner for both weeks. This is a Red point event. It is amazing to see so many players who only finished lessons earlier this year participate in the event. Well done to all, for your determination and love for the game. Bridge is such a wonderful game and it really gets you in. International Men’s Day was celebrated at the club last week as well.
Weekly Results
Monday 17 November Week 22 of 25 NWP 8 Table Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Jennifer Cameron / Diane Morgan
2nd Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek 2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd Shirley Worland / Anne Lutz 3rd Andrew Canavan / Geoffrey Patterson
Tuesday Evening 18 November 2025 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Helen Van den Broek 2nd Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
3rd Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy 4th Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
Wednesday 19 November 2025 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Eric Goodchild 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Laura Howland / Janelle Conroy 3rd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
4th Joy Hold / Diane Cox 4th Victor Mason / John Ludkin
5th Josie Cowley / Barbara Tait 5th Mick King / John McGee
Thursday Evening 20 November 2025 – 4 Tables One Winner – Green Points
1st Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott 2nd Jan Harris / Patricia Garner
Friday 21 November 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Eric Goodchild / Diane Morgan
2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
3rd Terry Sheedy Janelle Conroy 3rd Lynne O’Neill / Rowland / Taylor
Saturday 22 November 2025 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown 1st Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner
2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 2nd Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd Annie Lynch / Diane Stokes 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
4th Geoff Taylor / Margaret Lane 4th Terry Sheedy / Geoffrey Patterson
Sunday 23 November Novice Pairs Week 1 of 2 – 6 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Faith Hutchinson / Geoff Taylor 1st Lynne O’Neill / Karn Caldwell
2nd Joy Hold / Gillian McCallum 2nd Sandy Patterson / Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd Rodney Miles / Christine Morrison 3rd Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller
Contributed by Joy Block
First year players competing in Novice Pairs Championship Christine, Glen and Joy
Celebrating International Men’s Day at Bridge. Photos supplied
It has been an extraordinarily busy and successful month for students and staff at Mackay Christian College, with the school celebrating a wave of sporting achievements across several age groups. From the netball courts to the hockey field and rugby pitches, students have showcased exceptional skill, determination and sportsmanship.
Mackenzie Jackson has had a remarkable season, being awarded Most Consistent for the Magpies Netball Club. She was then nominated for Best and Fairest by the Mackay Netball Association for her age and division—an honour she went on to win, being named Best and Fairest player for the 14D division.
Impressive accomplishments also continued in hockey, with 11-year-old Fred Steidl selected as a Shadow Player (Goal Keeper) for the Queensland Hockey U14 Boys Indoor Team. This achievement is especially significant as Fred competed against players up to three years older.
In rugby, congratulations go to Brielle Herrington, Shantae Broome-Waria and Anahera Schaefer, who were undefeated in the U13 Mackay Rugby 7s held across the weekend of the 8th and 9th of November at the Nyrie Contor Cup.
The celebrations continued at the Mackay District School Sports (MDSS) Awards on the 17th of November where Frederick Steindl was one of three nominees for the 10–12 Boys Hockey category and was awarded the Most Outstanding Nominee.
In netball, Ainslee Procter made the Mackay Netball Association’s Mackay Monarchs Junior State Age 13s Squad of 24 for 2026. She also received the 12yrs Netball award at the MDSS Awards.
Rounding out the achievements, Viliame Tuibua was honoured with the Touch Football Sportsman of the Year and the Doug Knight Award for leadership and team character at the MDSS Awards.
It has indeed been a month packed with achievement, and the school community is celebrating the dedication and hard work of all involved!
Mackenzie Jackson was awarded most consistent for the Magpies Netball Club (Photo Supplied)
Fred Steidl (bottom left corner) was selected as shadow player for the Queensland Hocky U14 Boys Indoor Team (Photo Supplied)
Brielle Herrington, Shantae Broome-Waria and Anahera Schaefer were undefeated on the weekend in the U13 Mackay Rugby 7s (Photo Supplied)
Frederick Steindl was awarded MDSS' Most Outstanding Nominee in the 10-12yrs Boys Hockey (Photo Supplied)
Ainslee Procter was awarded the MDSS 12yrs Netball Award (Photo Supplied)
Viliame Tuibua was awarded the MDSS Touch Football Sportsman of the Year Award (Photo Supplied)
It started with a leisurely Sunday morning social swim at Teemburra Dam (near Pinnacle) and built to a crescendo of medals and PB’s (personal bests) at the Masters Swimming Queensland (MSQ) State Championships the following week!
It was a sultry early morning at Teemburra Dam where 2 kayakers, a couple of observers and 6 swimmers enjoyed a still water swim to welcome in November, refuelling with breakfast at Melba House.
Eight swimmers and one volunteer supporter travelled to Brisbane for the MSQ Masters State Championships held over 3 days early November. 22 teams from Queensland, interstate and overseas fielded 220 competitors.
The Sinkers’ team consisted of President Rachel Lee, Secretary Megan Taylor, Nigel Dalton, Pierre Craven, Sue Dalton, Dee McMurtrie, Lesley Thorpe and Sue McBride with volunteer Gerri Kissner.
A special treat of a superb dinner and tour of Parliament House hosted by MP for Mackay Nigel Dalton after the first day of competition, provided the inspiration and fuel to achieve 64 medals, 26 of which were GOLD! Along with the metal, 30 PB’s were achieved with this success being attributed to Coach Millie from DMR Leisure at the Mackay Memorial pool.
That wasn’t the end of the Sinkers’ efforts and achievements!
Pierre, who had won 8 Gold with 3 PB’s, followed this up with a 2nd place in his age group at the MSQ 3km open water swim at Raby Bay the next day. The following weekend he and 18 other Sinkers competed in the Hamilton Island Endurance Series, consisting of a 750m and 2km ocean swim and Triathlon.
Sinkers Geoff Hamilton, Paul Arvidson and Sandy Tobin won Gold in their age groups for the 750m ocean swim. Bronze was won by Jenny Smith, Nigel Dalton and Pierre Craven in the 2km swim
Sinkers Masters Swimming Club isn’t just for swimmers. It is all inclusive with non-swimmers, those learning to swim again and a few using the water to recover from injury as well as some serious competitors. The club holds regular social events with a morning tea held after each Saturday morning session at the DMR Memorial Pool. For more information, please call Megan on 0439980103
Contributed by Gerri Kissner
The Sinkers Masters swimmers have gone from tranquil dam swims to state-level triumphs, racking up medals, PBs, and endurance achievements across Queensland. Photos supplied
Kick off your Australia Day with a splash… literally! Mackay Tri Club is inviting the whole community to celebrate fitness, fun, and camaraderie at its free Australia Day Aquathlon on January 26, 2026, at the Pioneer Swim Centre.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a weekend warrior, or just looking for a fun way to get active with the family, this event is for you!
Supported by Mackay Regional Council and Triple M Mackay and Whitsundays, this Aquathlon is the only regional Queensland event to be featured in the NADC annual report, highlighting its significance and community impact. The focus is on enjoyment rather than competition, giving participants the chance to experience the thrill of racing, connect with friends and neighbours, and make this Australia Day one to remember.
Participants can take part solo or in teams of two across categories including Mini Kids (swim 100m, run 500m), Enticer (run 2.5km, swim 300m), and Swim Run (2.5km, swim 300m, run 2.5km, swim 300m)
Mackay Tri Club President Stephanie Allen said, “The Aquathlon offers an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to come together, celebrate our country, and take part in a fun, healthy, and memorable event.”
After the races, participants can enjoy a free BBQ, rounding off a morning of activity with great food and community spirit. The event also celebrates 39 years of Mackay Tri Club’s commitment to providing high-quality triathlon and multisport experiences across the region.
This Australia Day, whether you’re racing, cheering, or just soaking up the Aussie atmosphere, Mackay Tri Club’s Aquathlon promises a morning full of fitness, smiles, and memories for the whole family.
Registration is easy, just scan the QR code or visit www.mackaytriclub.com.au.
Entry is free, but spots are limited, so get in early!
Event Details:
What: Mackay Tri Club’s Australia Day Aquathlon
When: Sunday, 26 January 2026, from 6:00am
Where: Pioneer Swim Centre, Mackay
Entry: Free, plus free BBQ after the event
BRIDGE
The CQ Del Ryan Teams Congress, Red Point event, was played over the weekend. Sixteen teams attended from Townsville, Bowen, Rockhampton, Yeppoon and Mackay. The event is named after Del Ryan, who was a long-time player at the bridge club, and now her daughter Janet continues the tradition. Del’s granddaughter Courtney, who is a principal of North Marine in Cairns, is a supporter of the event.
Janet’s team came runner-up in Section A. Winners of Section A were Team Holewa from Mackay. Winners and runners-up of Section B were Team Bishop from Townsville and Team Pickering, a mixture of Townsville and Mackay players. Janet and her partner Diane Morgan, along with Geoff Taylor and Ken Seaniger, were winners of the Walkins.
Weekly Results
Tuesday Evening 11 November 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy 2nd Terry Sheedy / Helen Van den Broek
Wednesday 12 November 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
Section A
N/S E/W
1st Sue Mayer-Miller / Martin Pearce 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen
Section B
N/S E/W
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Christine Nice
Thursday Evening 13 November 2025 - 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott 1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 2nd Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers
Friday 14 November 2025 – 11 Table Mitchell CQ Congress Walk ins Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Cowan / Ken Seaniger 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 November 2025 – CQ Del Ryan Teams Red Points
Division A
Team Players
1st Holewa Diane Holewa, Max Holewa, David Ting, Ming Ting, Eric Goodchild
2nd Hansen Diane Morgan, Janet Hansen, Janelle Conroy, Terry Sheedy
Division B
Team Players
1st Bishop Sam Bishop, Ann Smith, Nina Doyle, Ian Leach
2nd Pickering Bill Pickering, Anne Lutz, Sandy Patterson, Mary Rose Ramsden
Contributed by Joy Block
Janet presenting A winners Max, Diane, David, Ming & Eric
B runners up Mary Rose, Sandy, Anne, Bill & Janet
A runners up Janet, Diane, Terry & Janelle
B winners Team Bishop
Walkin Winners Janet, Diane, Presenter Lorna, Ken & Geoff. Photos supplied
Division 1 – Eagles (Emma Widdup, Syed Aminul Hossain, Josh Brown) defeated Lily (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) 8-3, Josh won a tight 5 Sets over Robbie 11-7.
Jaguar (Jacob Whelan, Anne Sheridan, Neil Brown) defeated Barra (Barry Patterson, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson) 7-4. Barry made a massive come back in 5 Sets against Jacob, with Barry winning 11-9.
Gold (Goncalo Serra, Graham Brake, Geoff Denman) defeated Fish (Steven Whiting, Trent Day, Allan Allan Edwards) 6-5 with Steve winning a close 5 Sets against Graham 11-6.
Division 2 – Alpha (Allan Robins, Samuel Whelan, Peter Goodson) defeated Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Ian McKay, Rymer Tabulo) 6-5 with Allan coming back to win 11-5 in 5th Set against Mark
Drongos (Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight, Yilin Jiang) defeated Teddy (George Camilleri, David Symons, Rachel Fiesta) 10-1. George and David won a big 5 Sets over Delma and Yilin 11-4.
Division 3 – Marlin (Mark Stem, Val Austin, Melanie Theodore) defeated Nova Smashers (Craig VanDeKaa, Remy Zhan, Nate Clark) 6-5, Remy had a great win over Val 11-2 in 5 Sets.
Tibhar (Tiffany Camilleri, Liz Burton, Ollie Hamelink) defeated Sigma (Rod Hamelink, Simon Hogan, Daryl Ross) 8-3, Tiffany and Liz won a great 5 Set match against Simon and Daryl 11-8.
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1 – Rap Drive (Andrea Nicholson, Doug Dungavell, John McGee) def. Rock Rally (Pam Joyce, Kevin Abbott) 9-3 with John having a great win in 5 Sets over Kevin 11-5.
Bass Bump (Donna Abbott, Judy Zahn, Peter Taber) def. Jazz Live (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-5 with Veronica having a great win over Peter T 11-6 in 5 Sets.
Drum Beat (Steve Mathieson, Allan Robins) drew with Jump Up (Delma Knight, Branko Vucurovic, Virginia Clayton) 6-6. Steve had a great match with Virginia with Steve winning 11-6 in 5 Sets.
Division 2 – Pixal Paddles (Marie Taylor, Ken Best, Frank Caruana) def. Code Crackers (Josie Davis, John Hamelink, Pam Kuene) 9-3, Marie won against Josie 11-8 in 5 Sets.
Byte Bouncers (Helen Ware, Gloria Vella, Robyn Bushell) def. Nano Nets (Coral Morgan, Kim Daffy, Ian Dodds) 7-5, Kim won in 5 Sets against Helen 11-9.
Division 3 – Bat Serves (David Muir, Janelle Kuene, Kim Challendar) def. Spider Smashers (Sharon Muller, Laurie Bradshaw, Trish Zamparutti) 7-5 with Trish having a close win over Janelle 11-9 in 5 Sets.
Iron Rallies (Gerry Synnott, Thelma Caruana, Glenda Brooks) def. Captain Spins (Sally Muir, Allison Day, Carmel Cristaldi) 9-3 with Sally having a great win over Gerry 11-9 in the 5th Set.
Barry Patterson
Veronica Shepherd. Photos supplied
RUNNING
The second event in the 2025/2026 Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series got off to a great start on Sunday, with milder temperatures making for pleasant conditions on the run course before competitors hit the pool for the final leg.
Around 30 runners, swimmers, and supporters turned out to enjoy the relaxed, social atmosphere of the series, now in its second season as a biathlon. The event evolved from the long-running Shawn’s Summer Series, which was a running-only event for nearly ten years, and another decade before that under various formats.
Mackay Road Runners Club Captain and Race Director Jim Ford, who leads the off-season series, has been a driving force behind its success. Jim is known for his inclusive approach, ensuring people of all ages and abilities can take part and enjoy the challenge.
The series uses a handicap points system, based on the number of laps each participant completes on the track and in the pool within the allocated time, with bonus points awarded for older age categories.
The Splash n Dash continues every Sunday in November and again throughout January 2026, starting at 4.30pm at the Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Complex.
Everyone is welcome, no need to be part of a club, just arrive at 4.20pm for the briefing and have a go. The event is free to enter, with a $5 pool entry fee payable at the kiosk for use of the world-class, internationally accredited facilities.
Contributed by Janelle Tisle
Len Howarth (centre) with his beautiful relatives, granddaughter, Chloe (left) and daughter, Rebecca.
Approximately thirty runners, swimmers and supporters enjoyed the ARC (Aquatic & Recreational Complex) track and pool facilities.
Andew Short enjoying the track reversal concept for half of the track 30 minute track session.
Talented junior TriActiv8 triathlete, Archer Flanagan sizzled over the track portion of the Biathlon event.
Jose Short from the TriAtiv8 stable of athletes cruises the track section.
Steve Oberg cooling off from the run ready for the pool section starter’s whistle.
Clancy (left) and Mum Emily enjoying the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series. Photos supplied
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club recently hosted the 35th annual North Australian Titles, which saw over 1000+ lifesavers, water safety, carnival officials and spectators descend on Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach. The Mackay hosts did exceedingly well in the region, beating fellow clubs Eimeo and Sarina, as well as outperforming large clubs from around the state.
The club had some outstanding achievements placing 5th overall, with strong performances in marquee events such as the Lifesaver relay, All Age relay and Taplin relay’s.
Mackay SLSC Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant said, “The club is very proud of our small but strong competition group, from the nippers in U11’s to our masters.
“To see our competitors take on the best of the best in regional Qld and achieve some great results, is a credit to the culture and commitment we have at our club. The feedback I have received from visiting clubs is that they love coming here and competing at one of the best beaches in Queensland.
“ I would just like to thank all the clubs that made the effort and travelled to Mackay for the Nth Aussies, we hope to see you next year!”
“It was very pleasing to see Kody Amos (U13), Hayden Tobin (U14), Isabella Grant & Cadence McKinnon (U15), Zara Richardson and Nate McKinnon (U17) selected for the Qld Country team based on their outstanding results.” Mr Grant said.
“It’s a fantastic result to place with the best of the best of Northern Australia and regional Qld. The club is going from strength to strength, and we are now preparing our lifesavers for Branch Titles at Eimeo in a few weeks”.
Contributed by Josh Grant
Photo credit: Leah McLean Photography
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The long awaited final of the Mixed Fours was played at the club on Friday Afternoon 7th Nov 2025.
What promised to be a very intense and well played out final met all expectations. The team ofDave McKendry, Carmel Bell, Ken Rix and Pam Spencer came out flying with a determined game plan, to win and they certainly carried that throughout the entire game. A massive congratulations go to them as this years Mixed Fours winners.
Runners up Chris Banney, Les McDermott, Bev Svenson and Val dePinto were gracious in defeat, meeting a better team on the day.
Congratulations to all the teams who played in this wonderful event, better luck in 2026
Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine
Winners of the Mixed Fours (L) Dave McKendry, Carmel Bell, Ken Rix and Pam Spencer
Winners and runners up (L) Bev Svenson, Val DePinto,Les McDermott, Chris Banney, Dave McKendry, Carmel Bell, Pam Spencer, Ken Rix. Photos supplied
Swing Into Summer with the new social cricket competition that’s all about fun, friends, and fitness!
Never played? No worries! This is a stress-free, soft-ball game for women of all ages and abilities where everyone gets a go and no one's out! It’s a perfect opportunity to get a workplace team together for a bit of fun, while looking after staff moral and wellbeing.
The Details:
Starts: Monday, 17th November 2025, 4 weeks only
Game Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM (Quick 60-90 min games!)
Where: Harrup Park (Mackay Cricket)
Teams: Clubs & Business Teams (8 players per side - Ages 15+)
All equipment provided!
Get ready for smiles, new skills, and great mates! Nominate your team now at https://bit.ly/WomensSocialSmashTeamNomination2025
For more information contact Matt Brown email sportsops@harruppark.com.au
Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results - 28th October 2025
Evening Fixtures
Division 1: Eagles (Emma Widdup, Josh Brown) def Barra (Barry Patterson, Andrea Nicholson, Lee Brake) 6-5 with Emma and Josh making a awesome come back from 2 sets down to win 11-8 in 5th Set over Andrea and Graham D.
Fish (Steve Whiting, Trent Day, Graeme Walker) def Jaguar (Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan, Neil Brown) 8-3. Graeme W and Geoff had a tough battle with the leads changing all the time with Graeme winning in the 5th Set, 11-8.
Gold (Goncalo Serra, Geoff Denman, Graham Brake) def Lily (Allan Edwards, Will VanDeKaa, Robbie Richards) 8-3 with Allan winning a tough 5 Set match 12-10 against Graham B.
Division 2: Teddy (George Camilleri, Tony Bowman) def Alpha (Allan Robins, Peter Goodson) 5-4, with no 5 Set matches Tony and George defeated Allan and Peter 11-6 in 4th Set.
Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Ian McKay) def Drongos (Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight) 4-1 with Mark and Duncan having a tight 5 Set match, Mark winning 11-8.
Division 3: Nova Smashers (Craig VanDeKaa, Noreen Frederickson, Nate Clark) def Sigma (Logan Brown, Rod Hamelink) 11-0 with the juniors battling it out Nate and Logan always have a close match, this time Nate won 11-8 in 4th Set.
Tibhar (Tiffany Camilleri, Liz Burton, Ollie Hamelink) def Marlin (Mark Stam, Val Austin, Melanie Theodore) 9-2, Liz came back against Val to win 11-4 in the 5th Set.
Morning Fixtures
Division 1: Jazz Live (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) def Rap Drive (Andrea Nicholson, Doug Dungavell, John McGee) 7-5 with Andrea defeated George 11-8 in a very close 5 Sets.
Jump Up (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton) def Bass Bump (Donna Abbott, Judy Zahn) 8-4 with no 5 Set matches Donna came out on top against Delma 11-7 in 4 Sets.
Rock Rally (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Kevin Abbott) def Drum Beat (Allan Robins, Steve Mathieson) 8-4 with Pam winning against Steve 11-8 in 4th Set.
Division 2: Pixel Paddles (Marie Taylor, Louise Gould, Frank Caruana) def Byte Bouncers (Helen Ware, Gloria Vella, Robyn Bushell) 7-5 with Lousie and Robyn having a tough battle, Lousie won 11-9 in 5th Set.
Nano Nets (Ken Best, Kim Duffy, Ian Dodds) drew level with Code Crackers (Josie Davis, John Hamelink, Pam Keune) 6-6, Pam defeated Ken 12-10 in the 5th Set.
Division 3: Bat Serves (Kim Challendar, David Muir, Janelle Keune) def Captain Spins (Sally Muir, Allison Day) 9-3. David had close finish with Sally, coming out on top 13-11 in 5th Set.
Iron Rallies (Gerry Synnott, Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes) def Spider Smashers (Sharon Muller, Laurie Bradshaw, Trish Zamparutti) 7-5. There was a close doubles between Madge and Glenda defeated Laurie and Trish winning 11-9 in 5th Set.
Contributed by Andrea Nicholson
Mark Sleeman
Graeme Walker. Photos supplied
As the Bridge year gets closer to the end of the year, the Mackay Bridge Club gets very busy. Melbourne Cup Day saw Fifty-Eight players celebrate the “Race that Stops the Nation” with great Bridge, Sweeps, Fashions on the Field and a magnificent Lunch. Great fun was had by all.
The weekend was the third week of the Presidents Trophy, with players playing with a different partner each week to be eligible for the Trophy. Forty-Six players vied for the Presidents Trophy with Joy Robinson taking out the prize. Joy turned 100 years of age this Wednesday, so it just goes to prove you are never too old or too young to play bridge.
Joy had never played cards when she first started playing bridge. She is an amazing lady, player, and very well-deserved winner.
Weekly Results
Tuesday 4 November 2025 – Melbourne Cup Day - Green Points
N/S Section A E/W
1st Eric Goodchild / David King 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Christine Fitzpatrick / Ian Vary
N/S Section B E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Mick King 1st Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
2nd Shirley Worland / Diane Stokes 2nd Lynne O’Neill / Laura Howland
Wednesday 5 November 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Geoff Taylor / Karen Caldwell
3rd John McGee / Mick King 3rd Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th Susan Wright / Bob Ellis 4th Nancy Martin / Janine Rodgers
Thursday Evening 6 November 2025 - 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers 2nd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
Friday 7 November 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 1st Victor Mason / Josie Cowley
2nd Joy Robinson / Jewel Schmidt 2nd Geoff Cowan / Mick King
3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
Saturday 8 November 2025 – Mitchell Green Points
N/S Section A - 6 Table E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
N/S Section B – 7 Table E/W
1st Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes 1st Geoff Cowan / Joy Block
2nd Janine Rodgers / Marilin Robins 2nd Susan Ross / Karen Caldwell
Saturday 8 November 2025 - Presidents Trophy Week 3 of 3 Red Points
1st Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
3rd Geoff Cowan / Joy Block 4th David Ting / Eric Goodchild
Saturday 8 November 2025 - Presidents Trophy Final - Red Points
1st Joy Robinson 2nd Geoff Taylor 3rd Marilin Robins 4th Ken Seaniger
5th Julie O’Neill 6th Ann Whitmore 7th Terry Seedy 8th Janine Rodgers
9th Helen V. D. Broek 10th Faye Wright 11th Annie Lynch 12th Diane Stokes
Contributed by Joy Block
Joy Robinson, with playing partners left to right: Terry, Ken & Geoff
Presidents Trophy Winner Joy Robinson. Photos supplied
Mackay Road Runners held their 2025 Annual Presentation Night, a celebration of the club’s achievements that rivalled any award ceremony. Trophies and thank-you gifts were presented throughout the evening, recognising the dedication of members, volunteers, and sponsors.
Club President Paul Tilse acknowledged the committee and volunteers for their efforts in making the 2025 season a success. He also thanked the club’s many loyal sponsors and supporters, including Life Members Merv and Wendy Shields of M-Test Mackay, who have supported the club since its inception in 1976.
Carolyn Mapes and Alan Zamparutti coordinated the event at North Mackay Bowls Club, providing a fun introduction featuring several ‘Who Am I?’ quiz questions. Tables were decorated with running-themed items, and attendees enjoyed a popular selection of chocolates and Turkish Delights.
Major awards for 2025 were presented by Life Members Wendy and Merv Shields, Jim Ford, and Judy Zahn in the absence of Club Patron Col Meng:
• Junior Female & Male Club Champions: Lily Leven & Max Miles
• Open Female & Male Club Champions: Alana Knezevic & Mick Vivian
• Overall Handicap Points Champion: Ashley Miles
• The Grove 10k Handicap Champion: Justin Rule
• Forsyth’s Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield Champions: Alana Knezevic & Toby Rule
• Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Champion: Max Miles
• M-Test Open King & Queen of the Mountain: Alana Knezevic & Jared Havemann (non-member)
• Laura Pettifer & Podiatry Mackay Junior King & Queen of the Mountain: Lily Leven & Toby Rule
• Col & Rhonda Meng Club Person of the Year: Len Howarth
• Most Supportive: Andrew Short
• Most Improved: Gail Mackie
• Encouragement Award: Bianca Miles
• MAD Fitness Lucky Door Prize: Hughie Bishop
Committee members and volunteers were also recognised for their dedication, including Life Members Agnes Farmer, Wendy and Merv Shields, Tim Magoffin, Paul and Janelle Tilse, Andrew Short, and others who hosted events from their homes.
Looking ahead, the first event in the Shawn’s Splash & Dash Summer Series is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at the Aquatic and Recreational Complex (ARC). Club Captain and Life Member Jim Ford will guide participants through 30 minutes on the track followed by 30 minutes in the pool. Prizes will be awarded for the most laps completed in each age category. While the event is free to join, entry to the ARC facility covers access to the pool and track. All ages and abilities are welcome.
The Mackay Road Runners Annual General Meeting will be held Monday 12th January, 5:30 PM, North Qld Bulk Ports Meeting Rooms, Mackay Marina
Members and community supporters are encouraged to attend or share feedback with the committee if unable to make it.
For more updates and news from the Mackay Road Runners, watch this space.
2025 Committee congratulated on a great year with beautiful roses by Wendy Shields (Life Member) left to right) standing:- Paul Tilse (President), Len Howarth (Vice-President), Jo Hughes (Merchandiser), Tim Magoffin (Treasurer), Brendan Bishop (2024 President), Andrew Short (Asset Co-ordination, course setup/packdown); kneeling in front:- Jim Ford (Club Captain), Julie Whibley (Secretary) and Janelle Tilse (Publicity Officer.) Photos supplied
Sunset Bay had a jammed pack weekend 24/25th Oct with a fun night of Trivia for fundraising at Eimeo Surf club, followed the next day by the club AGM.
Trivia saw more of a head to head competitive side of the outrigger community and locals of Eimeo Beach were welcomed.
Thank you to the sponsors of the evening- Pin- Point Property; Magpie Sports Club, Mount Pleasant Brumby's and MAK Financial Advisors, with this support approx $1300 was raised for our paddlers heading to National Sprint Titles.
The next day Sunset Bay club members then welcomed new Committee members Justin Davies - President, Danette (Netty) Pearson - Secretary, Petina Kidd- Registrar, Colleen Halyes and Kim Alloway - general committee and with 6 committee members remaining in their roles for the upcoming 2026 season.
Outgoing President Bel Quakawoot was praised for her 'above and beyond' contribution to Sunset Bay for the past 2yrs and has left the committee in good stead.
Bel was able to present the club prestigious awards of life membership to Petina Kidd - a long standing and active member of Sunset Bay Outriggers.
Club person of the year was presented to Stephen James for his quiet achiever attitude in completing numerous tasks for the club.
Check Sunset Bay Outriggers on Facebook for upcoming 'Come & Try' days.
Contributed by Sunset Bay Outriggers
Sunset Bay Outriggers hosted a fundraising trivia night and AGM on 24–25 October, raising $1,300 and welcoming new committee members while presenting awards to standout club members. Photos supplied
Around forty athletes and supporters braved the heat at the Aquatic and Recreational Complex, Ooralea, for the first Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon of the 2025/2026 series.
Created by Mackay Road Runners Club Captain Jim Ford in memory of the late Shawn, a former club treasurer and champion runner who passed away from pancreatic cancer seven years ago, the series continues to celebrate his passion for fitness, community, and perseverance.
The event is open to everyone, with no club membership required. Entry to the ARC is charged by the venue, but the run itself is free, with gold coin donations welcome for post-race refreshments.
The next race will be held at 4.30pm at the ARC – participants are asked to arrive by 4.20pm for briefing.
Online registration for the 2026 Mackay Road Runners season is now open. The 2026 calendar meeting will take place on December 6 at 11am at the Seabreeze Tavern, Lamberts Beach, and the AGM will be held on January 12 at 5.30pmat the North Qld Bulk Ports meeting room, Mackay Marina. All are welcome.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Natasha, Craig and Alex Joynson enjoy the first Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series hosted by Mackay Road Runners Club Captain, Jim Ford as part of the off season informal training program.
The Flanagan family ready to tackle the Mackay Road Runners Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series.
The Hayles family supporting each other at the Mackay Road Runners off season Splash n Dash Biathlon series.
Jose Short and Phoebe Short clocking up as many laps as possible in 30 minutes before the 30 minute pool section of the Biathlon series.
Stephen Oberg and Fran March battle it out on the track section. Photos supplied
The Central Queensland Blokart Club held its annual three-day regatta at Cape Hillsborough Beach last weekend, attracting thirty competitors from across the region. Racing began on Friday under promising conditions, but the wind soon eased, leaving most sailors switching down to their 5.5 sails as speeds dropped to around 10–12kph. Despite the lighter breeze from the north-northeast, competitors made the most of the challenging conditions, with plenty of close racing and a few getting bogged in softer sand near the water’s edge.
Saturday brought similar winds early on before strengthening later in the day, prompting many to swap back to their 4m sails. Sixteen races were completed over the two main days, with plenty of tight finishes and friendly rivalry. The event concluded Sunday with a trophy presentation, nibbles, and drinks at the caravan park, celebrating another successful regatta filled with skill, camaraderie, and coastal adventure.
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Capricornia Blokart Club
Mackay’s rising sprint star Ethan Hill is proving that dedication and determination can overcome any obstacle. At just 15, he’s already represented Queensland and North Queensland at the nation’s top athletics competitions, with more milestones on the horizon.
Ethan’s impressive track record includes bronze medals in the 4x100m relay at both the 2022 School Sport Nationals in Brisbane and the 2025 Australian Athletics Championships in Perth. Later this year, he’ll again don the North Queensland colours at the Australian All Schools Championships in Melbourne.
His journey began humbly in 2021 at a school athletics carnival, where a natural burst of speed first caught attention. After an early setback with a broken wrist, Ethan returned in 2022, joined the Sleak Squad under coach Dave Lester, and quickly rose to national level within months.
The following year tested his resilience when a serious leg injury required surgery and a long recovery. Despite being told his running career might be over, Ethan persevered through rehab and was back on the track by the end of 2024, and stronger than ever. He’s since clocked impressive personal bests of 11.43 seconds (100m), 22.76 (200m), and 52.53 (400m).
Most recently, he competed in the Cathy Freeman Challenge, using the event to fine-tune his form ahead of Melbourne’s national championships in December.
While he’s proud of what he’s achieved through local training, Ethan said regional athletes would greatly benefit from more opportunities to train and develop their skills closer to home.
“It’d be good to have more help with training and more opportunities for athletes to develop,” he said.
“A lot of us don’t get to move from here, but to perform better we often have to go to the bigger cities, and that’s hard on a lot of families.”
Ethan’s success highlights the growing call from parents and coaches for more pathways to ensure the next generation of athletes can rise from regional tracks to national stadiums.
With the region producing standout talents across multiple sports, parents within the sporting community are calling for upgrades and better resources to help local competitors reach their full potential close to home.
Ethan’s sights are now set on the 2025 Australian Championships in Brisbane and the Oceania Championships in Darwin, marking the next step in an already inspiring career.
Mackay teen Ethan Hill has overcome injuries and setbacks to achieve national success in sprinting, highlighting both his talent and the need for more local sporting opportunities for regional athletes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Photos supplied
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The Life Members Trophy was played over two consecutive Wednesdays with the same partner to honour our past and present life members. Life members present were Barbara Tait and Monica Darley. Both ladies worked tirelessly over many years and contributed to make our club what it is today. Winners of the competition were Life Member Monica Darley and President Frances Brown.
Weekly Results
Monday 27 October 2025 - 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st David Ting / Ming Ting 2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
3rd Geoffrey Patterson / Robert Carless 4th Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
5th Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek 6th Shirley Worland / Joy Block
Tuesday 28 October 2025 – Australian wide Restricted Pairs (<300 MP’s) Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 1st Mick King / Ian Gaskell
2nd Jan Harris /Helen Van Den Broek 2nd Jennifer Cameron / Rosie Smith
3rd Joy Hold / Anne Lutz 3rd Susan Gibson/ Caldwell
4th Sandy Patterson / Geoff Cowan 4th Joy Block / Diane Stokes
Tuesday Evening 28 October 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris 1st Susan Gibson / Vicki Howard
2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
Wednesday 29 October 2025 – Life Members Pairs Week 2 of 2 - 9 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Diane Morgan 1st Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
2nd Monica Darley / Frances Brown 2nd Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller
3rd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 3rd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson
4th David Ting / Eric Goodchild 4th Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
Thursday Evening 30 October 2025 - 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Shirley Worland / Diane Stokes 2nd Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers
Friday 1 November 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 1st Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
2nd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 2nd Christine Nice / Gillian McCallum
3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jennifer Cameron 3rd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
Saturday 2 November 2025 – Presidents Trophy Week 2 of 3
N/S Section A E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Julie O’Neill 1st Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan
2nd Frances Brown / Alan Brown 2nd Robert Carless / Anne Lutz
N/S Section B E/W
1st Annie Lynch / Diane Stokes 1st Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
2nd Patricia Garner / Martin Pearce 2nd Janine Rodgers / Faye Wright
Contributed by Joy Block
Monica Darley & Barbara Tait
Barbara, Frances & Monica. Photos supplied
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LADIES BOWLS
The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club hosted its final competition for 2025 on Wednesday, October 29 — the 2 Bowls Triples event.
Club-selected teams played three games of 12 ends, with one standout trio taking top honours. The winners were Donna Gordon, Carmel Bell, and Hilary Jones Rowan, while Lorraine Silman, Pam Spencer, and Therese Russell were runners-up. Congratulations to all players who took part in the friendly and competitive day.
Best wishes also go to the Division 1 team, who travelled to Tweed Heads on Friday to compete in the District Pennant Finals on Saturday, November 1. Good luck and good bowling, ladies!
Division 1 Pennant Team (L) Lorraine Silman, Chris Woo, Nuggy Pratt, Lorraine Lemke, Lois Deguara, Lorna Bowers, Helen Fleming, Debbie Mackenzie, Marie Duck. Photos supplied
Runners up 2 Bowl Triples Therese Russell and Lorraine Silman, Pam Spencer (absent)
Winners of the 2 Bowl Triples (L) Carmel Bell, Donna Gordon, Hilary Jones Rowan
Although a day early, the students of the Northern Beaches Karate Club brought the spirit of Halloween to their regular training night.
A red carpet parade of spooks, ghouls, skeletons, Dracula attacking his Dad, a chicken with a police officer on board along with a familiar-looking president, set the scene for a fun night.
Class continued in costume with traditional training, punching bags, breaking boards, breath training and games. All agreed it was a perfect way to celebrate a Karate Halloween.
The Northern Beaches Karate club runs classes in school term on Tuesday and Thursday held at the Bucasia Community Hall in Wallace Avenue. Sensei Helle also holds Self Defence courses for women and girls with the next session planned for February 2026.
For information please call 0488 146 644
Contributed by Gerri Kissner
It was a week to remember for Mackay’s middle-distance athletes, with members of The Rules of Running squad returning from the Queensland School Sport Track and Field Championships in Townsville with an incredible medal haul.
Held from October 13 to 19, the state championships brought together some of the best young talent from across Queensland, with Mackay’s representatives proving they are a force to be reckoned with on the track and in the field.
The Mackay-based Rules of Running squad, coached and trained locally, recorded an outstanding 17 state medals in total, including nine gold, seven silver, and one bronze. The team also achieved 12 personal bests (PBs), one season best (SB), and an impressive 40.5 seconds of combined PB improvements, along with one new state record.
In total, 11 athletes represented the squad, including two competitors in the 10–12 years division and nine in the 13–19 years division.
Among the standout performances was Shailee Mewha, who earned her first two state silver medals in the 800m (PB) and 1500m events.
Millie Groom impressed with two silver medals in the 3000m and 2000m steeplechase, clocking a huge 18-second PB in the latter. She also posted PBs in the 800m (7th place) and 1500m (9th place).
August Cole claimed his first state bronze medal in the 2000m steeplechase with a four-second PB and continued his consistent form with PBs in the 1500m (7th), 800m (7th), and a solid 12th place in the 400m.
Keira Caban showed her remarkable all-round talent, taking home two state gold medals in the long jump and 1500m, as well as three silver medals in the shot put, 800m, and 400m — earning two state championship titles along the way.
Ayla Moon delivered a dominant performance with three gold medals in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m, all accompanied by PBs. Her record-breaking run in the 800m added to her trio of state titles and confirmed her as one of the standout performers of the meet.
Meanwhile, Toby Rule capped off an extraordinary campaign by securing four gold medals and four state championship titles in the 800m, 1500m, 3000m steeplechase, and 5000m.
The results mark one of the most successful outings yet for The Rules of Running squad, whose athletes continue to make Mackay proud on the state stage.
With hard work, dedication, and outstanding coaching behind them, the future looks bright for Mackay’s next generation of track and field stars.
Mackay was proudly represented by two men’s teams at the State Softball Championships in Toowoomba last weekend, with both sides delivering outstanding performances on the diamond.
The B Men’s team, coached by Steven Baxter and Allen James, competed in the Queensland Cup division and impressed with several close games and strong teamwork. Pitcher Cameron Baxter led from the mound with solid form, supported by Emmett Counsell and Graeme Love behind the plate. After a weekend of determined play, the team secured an impressive third place out of 11 teams.
Meanwhile, Mackay’s Open Men’s team, coached by Murray Rivers and John Nash Snr, faced tough conditions after storms delayed play, forcing an early 7am start for the knockout rounds. Despite the setback, the men battled hard — first defeating Toowoomba and then Redlands Green — to earn their place in the grand final against Rockhampton.
With regular catcher Andrew Baxter sidelined due to injury, James Allen stepped up and delivered a stellar performance behind the plate, catching for Liam Potts, who was recently named WSBC Softballer of the Year. In a thrilling finale, Jaxon Maluga smashed an automatic home run with a runner on base, sealing a 2–0 victory for Mackay and the Open Men’s State Championship title. Jaxon was named MVP of the grand final and will travel to Brisbane this weekend for Under-18 Queensland squad training.
Congratulations also go to Riley James and James Allen, who were both selected for the Patriots squad.
A huge well done to all players, coaches, scorers, and managers for representing Mackay with pride and passion.
Goosies Sport and Recreation Club recently hosted the 2025 Champion of Club Champion Singles, marking the first time the major bowls event has been held at the venue. The tournament drew 112 players over seven days, featuring 64 fours, 32 pairs, and 16 singles from clubs across Queensland.
A highlight of the event was 14-year-old Ben Harrison from Paradise Point, who made history by taking out the men’s singles title.
“Everybody was blown away by the club, the staff, and the performance of the players,” said Goosies Meneral manager Michael Newton.
“A young 14-year-old took out the men’s singles against everybody else in Queensland, which is a major achievement for him.”
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli even dropped by to celebrate Harrison’s win. Newton said the event showcased Goosies as a leading venue and helped boost the local economy, adding that the club plans to introduce junior programs to encourage more young bowlers.
2025 champion of club champion singles winners:
Women:
1st – Julia Brownie
2nd – Nicole Williams
3rd – Gill Pudney
4th – Jacinta Weier
Men:
1st – Ben Harrison
2nd – Josh Steffens
3rd – Damien McGee
4th – Shane Hinsch
Photo credit: Bowls Queensland
Christine Fitzpatrick won this year’s Monica Darley Supervised Player Award. Monica who is a Grand Master, donates this award to encourage promising new players. The club also gives incentive awards for players who continually play and advance, while others receive awards for their ABF level.
Weekly Results
Monday 20 October 25 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 1st Terry Sheedy / Simon Barnes
2nd Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson 2nd Christine Fitzpatrick / Colleen Riddel
3rd Monica Darley / Norma Cameron 3rd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
4th Diane Stokes / Edward Kleise 4th Rosie Smith / Jennifer Cameron
Tuesday Evening 21 October 2025 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Patrica Garner / Adrian Westcott 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
3rd Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 4th Geoff Taylor / Lynne O’Neill
Wednesday 22 October 2025 – Week 20 of 25 NWP – Life Members Pairs Week 1 of 2 8 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Monica Darley / Frances Brown 1st Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson
2nd Terry Sheedy / Diane Morgan 2nd Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
3rd Mick King / Diane Stokes 3rd Jewel Schmidt / Kath Poole
4th Karen Caldwell / Geoff Taylor 4th Sandra Morris / Jan Harris
Thursday 23 October 2025 - 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Jan Harris / Patricia Garner 2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore & Susan Gibson / Lynne O’Neill
Friday 24 October 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Geoffrey Patterson 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jennifer Cameron
2nd Kath Poole / Nancy Martin 1st Roland Taylor / Lynne O’Neill
3rd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 2nd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
Saturday 25 October 2025 – Presidents Trophy Week 1 of 3 - 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson 1st Martin Pearce / Susan Wright
2nd Annie Lynch / Ann Whitmore 2nd Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
3rd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 3rd Janine Rodgers / Mick King
4th Terry Sheedy / Diane Morgan 4th Julie O’Neill / John McGee
5th Christine Nice / Ken Seaniger 5th Barbara Tait / Josie Crowley
Sunday 26 October 2025 – Novice and Mentors - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Faith Hutchinson / Geoff Cowan 1st Terry Sheedy / Adrian Westcott
2nd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 2nd Diane Stokes / Clare Wallace
3rd Joy Block / Geoff Taylor 3rd Robert Carless / Gillian McCallum
4th Jennifer Cameron / Anne Lutz 4th Christine Morrison / Rodney Miles
Contribtued by Joy Block
Lynne, Martin & Sue
Monica and Christine
Colleen & Joy
Jewel & Adrian
Shirley. Photos supplied
The Heat Girls League kicked off its season in spectacular fashion on Friday afternoon, with PV Fire facing off against Souths Hurricanes, and PV Thunder challenging the reigning premiers, PV Throwing Coconuts.
With several players making their league debut, the atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement. Fortunately, the seasoned campaigners were in top form both on and off the field—offering encouragement and support to the newcomers, helping to settle nerves and foster a welcoming environment.
The Heat Girls League is a dynamic all-girls cricket competition for players aged 11 to 15 years. Featuring teams of nine, each match consists of 15 overs using a modified hard ball format. All equipment is provided, and the inclusive structure ensures every player has the opportunity to participate in all fielding positions and bat in pairs for a set number of deliveries.
More than just a game, the League is about fun, friendship, and confidence-building. Singing, dancing, and cartwheels are all part of the experience—creating an atmosphere where smiles are as common as sixes.
In this week’s results, Souths Hurricanes claimed victory over PV Fire, while the PV Throwing Coconuts continued their dominant form from last season with a win over PV Thunder.
Standout performances included:
• Batting
• Ravnoor Sidhu – 25 runs off 12 balls
• Paytton Thompson – 23 runs off 15 balls
• Izzy Blackburn – 21 runs off 10 balls
• Bowling
• Isabella Hamilton – 2 wickets for 21 runs (4 overs)
• Jordan Wood – 1 wicket for 4 runs (2 overs)
• Ravnoor Sidhu – 1 wicket for 5 runs (2 overs)
Want to Join the Fun?
It’s not too late to get involved! Head down to the Nita Fleming Vigoro Fields (corner of Juliet Street and Bridge Road) at 4pm on Friday. New players are always welcome—just bring your enthusiasm, and we’ll find you a team.
For more information, contact sportsadmin@harruppark.com.au or reach out to Mel on 0424 599 722
The Heat Girls League launched its 2025 season with thrilling matches, debut players, and plenty of fun, as Souths Hurricanes and PV Throwing Coconuts opened with wins in the dynamic all-girls cricket competition for players aged 11 to 15. Photos supplied
Whitsunday Anglican School is celebrating a thrilling sporting triumph after both its Year 12 Boys and Girls Volleyball Teams claimed grand final victories against Mackay State High School (MSHS).
After six weeks of preliminary games against schools across Mackay, the two teams faced off against MSHS in front of a strong home crowd. MSHS took the first set in both matches with some excellent volleyball, setting the stage for an intense contest.
A representative from Whitsunday Anglican School said, “Our Whitsunday teams showed real determination, digging deep to claim the second set and take the finals to a thrilling decider.”
In what became a nail-biting finish, both teams demonstrated “outstanding teamwork, skill, and composure to emerge victorious!”
The representative added, “Congratulations to all players for showing true Whitsunday spirit in your encouragement and support of each other. A huge thank you to our amazing coaches, Mr Shamus Stayt and Ms Val Allen, for their calm leadership, and to Mr Wheaton for his support courtside.”
The double victory marks a proud moment for the school community, reflecting not only the players’ athletic ability but also their unity, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Both teams’ success has underscored Whitsunday Anglican School’s commitment to fostering teamwork and excellence, on and off the court.
Whitsunday Anglican School celebrated a proud double victory as both Year 12 Boys and Girls Volleyball Teams triumphed in their grand finals against Mackay State High School.
BOWLS
The Annual Dames versus Dandies Fun Day was held at the club on Tuesday, October 7, and proved to be another great success. With the support of many enthusiastic district bowlers and members from the North Mackay Club, the day was filled with fun, laughter, and friendly competition.
After a few shandies and plenty of good spirits, the Dandies claimed victory, with the ladies graciously admitting they were outplayed this year — but vowing to come back stronger in 2026!
A special thank you goes to the Goosies Club for providing a delicious afternoon tea platter, enjoyed by all. Congratulations also to the runners-up from Northern Beaches Bowls Club and the winning team from North Mackay Club.
The club is already looking forward to another memorable showdown at next year’s event.
Winning Team - B. Ingram, G. McLean, W. McCurry, Ladies President Hilary Jones Rowan, E. Galletly.
Contributed by Sue Hazledine. Photos supplied
Runners up were : W. Wright, A. Burrows, M. Godfrey, G. Kasper
This season is proving to have some fantastic matches, Allan Robins has always had a lot of marathon matches but last Tuesday night, Duncan gave Allan a run for his money and they didn’t disappoint.
They took turns with every set was super close with Allan won in the end 11-8, 9-11, 11-9, 9-11, 16-14.
Evening Fixtures
Division 1 – Gold (Goncalo Serra, Geoff Denman, Graham Brake) beat Barra (Barry Patterson, Lee Brake, Graham Drury) 8-3, with Lee beat Graham 11-6.
Eagles (Emma Widdup, Syed Aminul Hossain, Josh Brown) beat Jaguar (Jacob Whelan, Geoff Cowan, Rymer Tabulo) 7-4, with Jacob made a comeback against Emma to win 11-6 in 5 Sets.
Fish (Steven Whiting, Trent Day, Graeme Walker) won against Lily (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDaKaa) 7-4, with Steven winning in 5 Sets over Will 11-3.
Division 2 – Teddy (George Camilleri, Vincent Neuhauf, Ross DeBoer) beat Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Peter Taber, Ian McKay) 7-4, George and Mark had a massive match with George coming out on top 11-9 in 5th Set.
Drongos (Yilin Jiang, Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight) won against Alpha (Allan Robins, Samuel Whelan, Peter Goodson) 7-4, Allan won in a close finish against Duncan 16-14 in 5 Sets.
Division 3 – Nova Smashers (Noreen Frederickson, Craig VanDaKaa, Nate Clark) beat Tibhar (Ollie Hamelink, Tiffany Camilleri) 6-5, with Tiffany won against Craig 11-5.
Marlin (Val Austin, Melanie Theodore, Mark Stam) won 6-5 against Sigma (Simon Hogan, Logan Brown, Rod Hamelink), Melanie came out on top against Rod 11-7 in tight 5 Sets.
Morning Fixtures
Division 1 – Rap Drive (Andrea Nicholson, Doug Dungavell, John McGee) drew level with Jump Up (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton) 6-6, there was a lot of close matches Doug and Delma having a wonderful match with Doug winning 11-6 in tight 5 sets.
Jazz Live (George Camilleri, Veronica Shepherd, Peter Goodson) won 7-5 over Rock Rally (Geoff Cowan, Pam Joyce, Kevin Abbott), with Geoff coming back from 2 sets to 1 down to win against George 11-7 in 5th set.
Bass Bump (Donna Abbott, Judy Zahn, Peter Taber) beat Drum Beat (Allan Robins, Steve Mathieson, Bryan Marshall) 7-5, Judy won a close finishing match 11-9 in 5 sets over Bryan.
Division 2 – Byte Bouncers (Gloria Vella, Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell) won against Code Crackers (Pam Keune, Josie Davis, Thelma Caruana) 7-5, Josie won a tight 5 set match against Robyn 12-10.
Pixal Paddles (Marie Taylor, Louise Gould, Frank Caruana) beat Nano Nets (Kim Daffy, Ian Dodds, Coral Morgan) winning 7-5, with Marie coming out on top 12-10 in 5th Set against Kim.
Division 3 – Captin Spins (Sally Muir, Allison Day, Carmel Cristaldi) drew level with Spider Smashers (Sharon Muller, Trish Zamparutti, Laurie Bradshaw) 6-6, Sally won a close match against Sharon 11-9.
Bat Serves (Kim Challendar, David Muir, Janelle Keune) won 8-4 against Iron Rallies (Gerry Synnott, Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes), Madge beat David 11-8 in 5th Set.
Contributed by Andrea Nicholson
Allan Robins
Duncan Treloar. Photos supplied
The Central Queensland Blokart Club is gearing up for its 17th annual Blokart Regatta at Cape Hillsborough Beach, set to hit the sand on November 1–2. Drawing competitors from across Queensland and as far afield as Victoria, the regatta promises fast-paced, thrilling racing on the shore.
Spectators are invited to soak up the excitement and cheer on the landyachts as they race along the stunning beachfront. The club will have gazebos set up for shade, though beachgoers are encouraged to bring their own chairs to enjoy the best views of the action. A sausage sizzle and cold soft drinks will be available, with proceeds supporting the ongoing operations of the Central Queensland Blokart Club.
This family-friendly event is perfect for both dedicated motorsport fans and casual visitors looking for a day out on the beach. Previous regattas have showcased close finishes, high-speed manoeuvres, and plenty of fun for participants and spectators alike, making it a highlight on the Mackay sporting calendar.
Co-Founder and President Dave Moore said, “We welcome the public to come along, watch the racing, and enjoy the beach atmosphere. Our regatta is all about thrilling competition, community spirit, and sharing our love of Blokarting with everyone.”
Don’t miss this chance to see landyachts in action on one of Mackay’s most picturesque beaches!
Last year’s regatta was a spectacular display of speed and skill along Cape Hillsborough Beach, and spectators are encouraged to join us this year for another thrilling weekend of Blokart racing. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Five first year players came in top four positions this week. Karen Cadwell finished in top place on Wednesday, Annette Howe and Jewel Schmidt second on Friday with Sue Mayer-Miller bagging fourth position also on Friday and Christopher Meyers third on Saturday. This is an amazing effort for these first-year players. Bridge is a complex, fun game and these new members have taken to the game like ducks to water. Our Australia Day Come and Try day, sponsored by Mackay Regional Council, includes morning tea and a sausage sizzle. Come and see what Bridge is all about, enjoy a meal and friendly atmosphere for Australia Day.
Weekly Results
Monday 13 January 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Terry Sheedy 1st Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Ted Cullinan 3rd Monica Darley / Kath Poole
4th Ming Ting / David Ting 4th Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
Tuesday Evening 14 January 2025 –3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Janet Hansen 2nd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy 4th Sandra Morris / Geoff Taylor
Wednesday 15 January 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Karen Cadwell / Noel Saunders 1st Barbara Tait / Janine Rodgers
2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
3rd Sandra Morris / Jan Harris 3rd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Ros Scott / Griffin Bancroft 4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Ted Cullinan
Thursday Evening 16 January 2025 –4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 2nd Patricia Garner / Mick King
3rd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott 4th Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger
Friday 17 January 2025 – 9 Tables Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown
2nd Annette Howe / Jewel Scmidt 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
4th Sue Mayer-Miller / Noel Saunders 4th Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill
Saturday 18 January 2025 –Section A – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes 2nd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
3rd Geoff Taylor / Chris Meyers 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
Saturday 11 January 2025 Section B - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris 1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette
3rd Carmel Brown / Patrick Rasmussan 3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Ted Cullinan
Contributed by Joy Block
-mackay-softballers-jaxon-maluga-and-peyton-barrow.jpeg)
SOFTBALL
Two Mackay softballers, Jaxon Maluga and Peyton Barrow, headed off to the Club Classic tournament two weeks ago, each showcasing outstanding performances.
Jaxon played for the Brisbane-based team Scorpions, coming away with an impressive list of achievements such as Best Pitcher, Team Pitcher, and selection in the All-Star Team. His team finished runner-up, narrowly missing victory by just one run.
This weekend, October 17th–19th, Jaxon will play with the Open Mackay Men’s Team for the first time at a tournament in Toowoomba. Mackay will be represented by both an Open Men’s and a B Men’s side, competing in the State Championships.
Meanwhile, Peyton Barrow played her last tournament in Australia for a while, representing the Cougars. She was awarded Designated Player, Rookie Player, and Best Batter, rounding off her Australian season on a high note.
Peyton is completing her Year 12 studies at Northern Beaches and will spend Christmas with her family before heading to Oklahoma, USA. She has received a four-year scholarship to Oklahoma City University, where she’ll live on campus, studying Pre-Vet and Biology Pre-Medicine.
While it won’t be all study, she’ll continue training and playing softball, mostly as a catcher for the Oklahoma City University team.
In local softball news, Social 7s kicked off on Sunday night with four teams taking part. Players, both new and returning, enjoyed learning fresh skills and having fun in this social version of modified slow pitch. Games continue every Sunday at 5pm and 6:15pm until the end of November.
James Allen and Emmett Counsell also competed in the U21 tournament two weeks ago, where James was awarded Best Fielder.
At the recent Club Classic, James’s team, TE AROHANUI, went through undefeated to win the tournament. James was further recognised as Fielder of the Tournament and selected as All-Stars Team Catcher. Both James and Emmett will now head to Toowoomba this weekend, representing Mackay A Men.
Contributed by Cheryl Martin
1) Mackay softballers Peyton Barrow and Jaxon Maluga impressed at the Club Classic, earning top honours as they step into exciting new chapters in Toowoomba and Oklahoma, USA. Photos supplied
2) James Allen was awarded best fielder at the tournament
3) Emmett Counsell will be heading to Toowoomba on the weekend, playing for mackay A men alongside James and Jaxon.
Mackay Table Tennis Association Fixture Results
7th October 2025
Division 1 – Eagles (Emma Widdup, Josh Brown, Syed Aminul Hossain) defeated Lily (Robbie Richards, Will VanDaKaa, Lily Boland) 7-4 with Josh winning a massive 5 set match over Lily 15-13
Barra (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson) defeated Jaguar (Anne Sheridan, Jacob Whelan) 3-2. Andrea had a big win over Jacob 11-9 in 5th set.
Fish (Steven Whiting, Trent Day, Graeme Walker) defeated Gold (Vince Boeske, Geoff Denman) 10-1 unfortunately no 5 set matches but some great 4 setters.
Division 2 – Drongos (Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight, Yilin Jiang) defeated Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Ian McKay, Peter Taber) 9-2 with Duncan had a great match against Ian, Duncan won 11-7 in 5th set.
Teddy (George Camilleri, Tony Bowman, Vincent Neuhauf) defeated Alpha (Allan Robins, Peter Goodson, Rymer Tabulo) 7-4, with no 5 set matches there was a lot of 4 set matches Peter defeated Vincent 11-9 in 4th set.
Division 3 – Tibhar (Rachel S, Ollie Hamelink, Liz Burton) defeated Marlin (Mark Stam, Val Austin, Melanie Theodore) 6-5, Ollie made a great come back in the 5th set with a win over Val 11-9.
Nova Smashers (Remy Zhan, Craig VanDaKaa) defeated Sigma (Rod Hamelink, Logan Brown) 5-0 with Craig won 4 set match over Rod.
1. George Camilleri
2. Duncan Treloar
South Suburban Bowls Club is set to host the 2025 State Mixed Pairs Championships this weekend, bringing two days of high-level bowls action to the region. The event kicks off on Saturday 11th October at 9 a.m., with competition continuing through Sunday 12th October.
The championships will feature some of Queensland’s finest bowlers, combining seasoned champions and local talent. Spectators can expect fast-paced games, strategic play, and a lively atmosphere as participants vie for state honours.
The line-up of competitors includes:
For South Suburban Bowls Club, hosting the State Mixed Pairs Championships is a major highlight, celebrating the sport and its community following. Fans are invited to come down, enjoy a drink or a meal from the club’s facilities, and watch the competition unfold on the greens.
The event offers an opportunity for locals to see strategic skill, precision, and teamwork at its finest. Beyond the on-field action, it’s a chance to connect with fellow bowls enthusiasts, cheer for local representatives, and enjoy a weekend of sport in a welcoming community setting.
Whether a long-time supporter of lawn bowls or a first-time spectator, the 2025 State Mixed Pairs Championships promise two days of engaging competition, camaraderie, and entertainment. South Suburban Bowls Club will be the place to be this weekend for anyone looking to witness some of the state’s best mixed pairs in action.
Photo source: South Suburban Bowls Club (Facebook)
Mackay’s young athletes are gearing up for the All Schools State Schools Track and Field Championships in Townsville this October, following strong performances at the Capricornia and North Queensland school trials in September. Twelve squad members earned spots across a range of events.
10–12 years age group; 13–15 October:
• Penny Shields - 800m and 1500m
• Harper Miles - 200m, 400m, 800m and the 1500m
13–19 years age group; 16–19 October:
• August Cole - 400m, 800m, 1500m and the 2000m Steeplechase
• Autumn Curtis - 400m and 800m
• Toby Rule - 800m, 1500m, 5000m and the 3000m Steeplechase
• Ayla Moon - 200m, 400m, 800m and 1500m
• Keira Caban - 400m, 800m, 1500m, Long Jump and Shot Put
• Chloe Waples - 200m, 400m and 800m
• Riley Baumann - 1500m and 3000m
• Shailee Mewha - 800m and 1500m
• Millie Groom - 800m, 1500m, 3000m and the 2000m Steeplechase
• Riley Simpson - 400m and 800m.
The squad recently had an impressive hit-out at the North Queensland Championships, with 19 athletes participating. Competing against the state’s best on home turf will be an exciting challenge for Mackay’s dedicated young track and field stars.
The North Queensland Championships recently saw Mackay’s young athletes compete across a range of track and field events, showcasing their skills and preparation for upcoming state competitions. Photo source: The Rules of Running Mackay (Facebook)
BRIDGE
The Mackay Contract Bridge Club held its 2025 Congress with players from the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Townsville in attendance.
An extremely well supported weeked saw 60 players compete in three competitions. Winners of the Open pairs were Ian Afflick and Terry Sheedy, followed closely by Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan.
Section B pairs were won by Martin Pearce and Simon Barnes, with Annette Howe and Jewell Schmidt in second place. The Open Teams were won by Team Bugeia, Noel Bugeia, Val Holbrook, Terry Sheedy and Ian Afflick.
Section B Teams won by Team Patterson: Sandy Patterson, Mary Rose Ramsden, Christine Nice and Diane Cox.
Weekly Results
Monday 29 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
2nd Jennifer Cameron / Diane Morgan 2nd Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell
3rd Diane Stokes / Nancy Wix 3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
Tuesday Evening 30 September 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st John McGee / Mick King 1st Karen Caldwell / Susan Gibson
2nd Patricia Garner / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
Wednesday 1 October 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Terry Sheedy / Susan Wright
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell 3rd Barbara Tait / Josie Crowley
Friday 3 October 2025 – Mackay Open Walkins 7 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 1st Di Garside / Donna Fitch
2nd Geoff Taylor / Anne Lutz 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Janelle Conroy / Robyn Nolan 3rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox
Friday 3 & Saturday 4 October 2025 September 2025 – Mackay Swiss Pairs – Red Points
Section A Section B
1st Terry Sheedy / Ian Afflick 1st Simon Barnes / Martin Pearce
2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt
3rd Noel Bugeia / Val Holbrook 3rd Jill Brabon / Beverley Lowcock
4th Frances Brown / Alan Brown 4th Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch
Sunday 5 & Monday 6 October 2025 Mackay Teams Congress Red Points
Team Section A
1st Bugeia Noel Bugeia / Val Holbrook / Terry Sheedy / Ian Afflick
2nd Brown Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen
3rd Conroy Janelle Conroy / Robyn Nolan / Janine Rodgers / Nancy Marting
4th Breeze Deb Breeze / Renate Feige / Mick King / Ian Gaskell
**Team Section B**
1st Patterson Sandy Patterson / Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd Pearce Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes / Sue Mayer-Miller / Lynne O’Neill
3rd Brabon Jill Brabon / Beverley Lowcock / Lydie Martin / Elaine Hadlow
Contributed by Joy Block
- Terry Sheedy, Cnv. Anne, Ian Afflick
- Janet Morgan & Diane Morgan
- Simon Barnes & Martin Pearce
- Annette Howe, Anne, Jewell Schmidt.
Photos supplied
Queensland families have shown overwhelming support for the Government’s Play On! Sports Vouchers program, with the first round now closed.
The initiative, which provides vouchers valued at up to $200, was designed to ease cost of living pressures while encouraging more young Queenslanders to get active in sport.
The Government has committed $62.5 million each year for four years to fund the program, ensuring families across the state can access financial support for children aged between five and 17 years to join sporting clubs and activities.
The program has been warmly welcomed, with families already putting the vouchers to use. The Government said this reflects a renewed commitment to grassroots sport, after what it described as “10 years of decline under Labor.”
A second round of vouchers will open in January 2026, giving more Queensland families the chance to benefit.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tim Mander, said the strong take-up demonstrates the importance of sport in Queensland communities.
“The strong demand for the first-round highlights how important sport is to Queensland families,” Minister Mander said.
“It’s fantastic to know that more kids will be getting on the court or the field with the help of their Play On! Sports Voucher.
“This program has specifically targeted kids in every town, city and region of the state, and I’m particularly proud that every child with a disability who applied will receive a voucher to get involved in sport.”
For more details about the program and future application rounds, families can visit www.qld.gov.au/playon.
By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach
In the fitness world, training gets all the attention. Lifting heavier, running faster, pushing harder. But here’s the truth: performance and results don’t come from training alone — they come from recovery. That’s why at Fitness Cartel Mackay, we’ve invested in a state-of-the-art Wellness Centre that puts recovery on equal footing with training.
For athletes, recovery is the difference between progress and plateau. For everyday members, it’s the secret to having more energy, better focus, and a body that feels alive instead of run down. Two of the most powerful recovery methods we’ll offer are traditional saunas and contrast therapy — and the science behind them is remarkable.
The heat advantage – traditional saunas
The use of sauna is nothing new. Ancient cultures have used heat to heal for thousands of years. But modern science has confirmed what they already knew: regular sauna use improves cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, enhances recovery, and even extends lifespan.
Heat exposure increases circulation, helping deliver nutrients and oxygen to tired muscles. It stimulates the release of growth hormone, which is critical for repair. It even boosts mental clarity by increasing endorphins and neurotransmitters like dopamine. For lifters, this means faster recovery between sessions. For anyone chasing wellness, it means stress relief, better sleep, and a calmer mind.
The power of contrast therapy
Now add cold. Contrast therapy — alternating between hot and cold immersion — is a game-changer for resilience and recovery. When you step into cold water, blood vessels constrict, inflammation reduces, and your nervous system gets a powerful reset. Step back into the heat, and blood vessels dilate, pumping fresh blood and nutrients through the body.
This push-pull effect is like interval training for your circulation. It speeds up muscle repair, reduces soreness, and builds a kind of mental toughness that carries into every area of life.
Research even suggests cold exposure boosts immune function and sharpens cognitive performance.
Not just for athletes
The best part? You don’t need to be a professional athlete to benefit. Whether you’re a parent juggling family and work, someone getting back into training after time away, or an older adult wanting to feel more energised — the Wellness Centre has something to offer you.
Contrast therapy and sauna are as much about the mind as they are the body. They provide stillness, reset stress levels, and create a sense of renewal that lasts long after the session is over.
Wellness meets performance
At Fitness Cartel Mackay, recovery isn’t an afterthought — it’s built into the foundation of what we do. The Wellness Centre will ensure that whether you train hard, train light, or are simply looking for a space to recharge, you’ll leave feeling stronger, clearer, and more alive.
This is the future of fitness: train hard, recover smart, live better. And soon, Mackay will have it right here at home. https://www.fitnesscartel.com.au/clubs/mackay/
The Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Dojo has celebrated an impressive 10-year milestone, marking a decade of discipline, strength, and community connection.
Operating from the Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia, the dojo runs classes every Tuesday and Thursday evening during school terms, fostering a supportive environment where students of all ages can train and grow together.
Congratulations to everyone involved on reaching this significant milestone.
The Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Dojo has celebrated 10 years of discipline, strength, and community spirit at its Bucasia training hall. Photo source: Northern Beaches Our Community (Facebook)
Last Wednesday the finals of both the Club Under 70’s Singles and the Club Over 70’s singles finals were held at the club. The Under 70’s singles final was between Cheryle Corbett and Brenda Trannore.
This game was tense but very friendly, with both ladies concentrating on each bowl to the end game of champion bowlers. Brenda Trannore was the eventual winner and this years Unders 70’s Champion. Her other achievements now include: Club Championship Singles Winner and the B grade singles Champion for the club this year. .
The Over 70’s singles game was played between Helen Fleming and Lorna Bowers.
Each end was a lovely display of beautiful bowls, with some very close shots added . The eventual winner was Lorna Bowers. Congratulations to each lady bowler who competed in both these singles games, and indeed throughout the 2025 season.
Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine
Photos:
- Under 70’s Singles winner Brenda Trannore and Runner up Cheryl Corbett
- Over 70’s Singles Runner Up Helen Fleming and Winner Lorna Bowers. Photos supplied
Fabulous results to the final of the Club Consistency Singles Comp. The game was played on Wednesday 10/9/25 with contestants Cheryle Corbett and Wendy Sonter vying for the win. Congratulations goes to Cheryle Corbett winning by the slimmest of margins. The games was a nail biter to the very last bowl with both ladies playing amazing bowls.
Representing the Mackay District, the North Mackay Ladies Division 1 Pennant team travelled to Emerald on Saturday 20/9, to compete against the Leichhardt District team.
The North Mackay Ladies played amazing bowls to come away as well-deserved winners. The team will now travel to Brisbane to compete at a later date.
Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine
Photos:
L-R Nug Pratt, Marie Duck, Chris Woo, Bev McDonald, Deb Mackenzie, Lorraine Lemke, Lorraine Silman, Lorna Bowers
Consistancy winner Cheryle Corbett
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, recently joined local families and young athletes at Harrup Park to celebrate the latest recipients of the Mackay Sports Foundation grants.
Round 3 of the program marked its biggest round yet, with 28 talented young athletes receiving financial support to help overcome barriers and chase their sporting dreams.
From Irish dancing and athletics to netball, gymnastics, and even horseball, the range of sports represented highlights the depth and diversity of talent in the Mackay region.
Mr Willcox said it was an honour to present certificates to the athletes and hear firsthand the stories behind their sporting journeys.
“It was fantastic to meet these athletes and their families and talk about the extra challenges regional kids face in accessing elite pathways,” he said.
He praised the Mackay Sports Foundation as a shining example of a "by community, for community" initiative, offering vital assistance to young people striving to represent their club, state, and even country.
Mr Willcox also extended his thanks to Harrup Park, the Great Barrier Reef Arena, and Mackay Cricket Chairman Terry Doolan for their continued commitment to grassroots sport and nurturing the next generation of champions.
The 2025 Qld BMX State Championships delivered an action-packed weekend of racing, showcasing the incredible talent, determination, and sportsmanship of riders from across the state.
Over 615 competitors took to the Mackay track over two thrilling days of racing which featured:
Mini Wheelers, Sprockets, Challenge, Masters and Superclass across 20” Inch, Cruiser and Para BMX categories.
Standout performances came from MAD BMX Club local riders, Adelyn Eatwell (11 Girls) Liam Willson (12 Boys) Dylan Secher (14 Boys) Brendan Knight (40-44 Men) Michael Wallin (45-49 Men) and Michael Jameljanenko (50-54 Men) making the most of their home track knowledge and bringing home Q1 Plates in 20” class.
Day two brought even more excitement with local MAD BMX riders putting on a strong show in Cruiser class with Dylan Secher (13-14 Boys) Sherridan Pogmore (40-44 Women) Michael Jameljanenko (50-54 Men) all impressing the home crowd also claiming themself a Q1 Plate. The elite Masters and Superclass categories lit up the weekend with high-speed racing with local favourite Michael Wallin proving too fast, also securing a Q1 Plate in Masters.
Superclass Men
1st Zac Hutton (Bundaberg BMX Club)
2nd Mica Moloney (Cairns BMX Club)
3rd Zac Stoppa (Ashmore BMX Club)
Superclass Women
1st Isabella Schramm (Ashmore BMX Club)
2nd Celeste Barr (Townsville BMX Club)
3rd Kyarnee Young (Pine Rivers BMX Club)
The recently upgraded track provided the perfect stage for thrilling bar to bar racing and plenty of memorable moments. MAD BMX Club thanks all Riders, Spectators, Sponsors, Volunteers, Aus Cycling, Officials, and Mackay Regional Council Clubs whose efforts made the Championships possible.
Congratulations to every rider who hit the track across the weekend. The State Championships once again highlighted the strength of BMX and celebrates not only the sport but the passion that makes this sport so fun and unique.
Adelyn Eatwell - Q1 (11 Year Girls - 20")
Liam Wilson Q1 (12 Boys - 20")
Dylan Secher Q1 (14 Boys - 20")
Brendan Knight - Q1 (40-44 Men - 20")
Michael Wallin - Q1 - 45-49 Men 20" and Masters Q1
Michael Jameljanenko - Q1 (50-54 Men - 20")
Sherridan Pogmore Q1 (40-44 Cruiser Women)
Mini Wheelers
Sprockets and Mini Wheelers - MAD BMX Club
Left to Right: Mathew Hey (Aus Cycling State Operations Manager) Dale Percy (Auscycling Head of Events) Greg Williamson (Mayor Mackay Regional Council) Brett Wilson (MAD BMX Club Presiden
Around 30 runners, including Mackay locals and visitors from interstate and overseas, gathered at 7am Sunday for the inaugural ACE (Australian Conveyor Engineering Fenner Dunlop) Eungella 6km and 19km Trail Run. Starting from the Eungella Chalet lawns under perfect conditions, participants enjoyed a scenic and adventurous course through Eungella National Park.
Race Director Tim Magoffin set a light-hearted tone, joking about “drop bear” encounters and recommending Vegemite as protection, while reminding runners of real trail challenges like leeches and “wait-a-while” vines. His efforts in course marking and safety were widely praised.
Organisers thanked ACE Engineering for sponsoring the event and donating random cash prizes. The Mackay-based company, employing over 50 staff and apprentices, has been a local leader in sustainable engineering for more than 20 years.
The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service also earned thanks for maintaining the trails, which showcased Eungella’s natural beauty. Tony and Tess from the Eungella Chalet were commended for their warm hospitality.
In the 19km race, French runner Leonard Diez claimed victory ahead of Brady Giannangelo and Henry Fernandez. Andrew Wallace was the first Mackay finisher, followed by Stephen Oberg. Trail detours brought light-hearted awards for Jose Short and Alan Zamparutti, while Maddison Dollar and Andrew Short were also standouts.
In the 6km event, Darrin Pullen, Max Miles, and Ashley Miles claimed top spots for Mackay Road Runners, with Kayla Waugh leading the women’s field.
The club’s next social run will be held from Bluewater Quay at 4pm, followed by the Annual Awards Night on 25 October at Goosies.
Stephen Oberg (front left) and Darrin Pullen (front right) are off and racing in the 6km ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run.
3197 – Race Director, Tim Magoffin (centre) with some of the very vital volunteers for the ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run (left to right) Jo Hughes, Julie Whibley, Len Howarth and Paul Tilse.
Alan Zamparutti is ecstatic finishing the 19km (plus a few more kilometres) in the ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run.
Rockhampton runners, Kristina Joergensen and Angus Campbell enjoy the post run celebrations and mini presentations at the Eungella Chalet’s outdoor dining area.
Max Miles (front left) and Judy Zahn (front right) bolt off the start line in the 6km ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run. Photos supplied
TENNIS
Day 1 Winners & Runners-Up
• Open Women’s Singles – Winner: Lexi Tapp, Runner-Up: Sarah Chisholm
• Division 1 Men’s Singles – Winner: Lincoln Gam Lim, Runner-Up: Chris Barbour
• Open Men’s Doubles – Winners: Troy Debondi and Josh Wilson, Runners-Up: James Rogers and Barry Abbott
• Open Women’s Doubles – Winners: Sarah Chisholm and Jess Brass, Runners-Up: Bree Chauntler and Ash Chauntler
• Veterans Men's Doubles – Winners: Craig Bentley and Doug Boss, Runners-Up: Mike Just and Brett Walz
Day 2 Winners & Runners-Up
• 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐧'𝐬 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐬 - Winner: James Rogers, Runner-Up: Josh Wilson
• 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐱𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 – Winners: Troy Debondi and Jess Brass, Runners-Up: Wynn Tapp and Lexi Tapp
• 𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝟏 𝐌𝐢𝐱𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 – Winners: Barry Abbott and Ash Chauntler, Runners-Up: Zac George and Debbie Munns
Mackay Tennis Association celebrated two action-packed days of competition, with standout performances across singles, doubles, and mixed events showcasing local talent. Photo source: Mackay Tennis Association (Facebook)
SURF LIFESAVING
Mackay SLSC just competed in the State Endurance Championships hosted at Alexandra Headlands SLSC on the Sunshine Coast. The team finished an impressive 8th out of 36 clubs from around Australia, out classing some of its rival super clubs like Surfers Paradise, Coolangatta and Northcliffe just to name a few.
The team of 16 travelled to the Sunshine Coast as part of a NQBP sponsored Youth Development Camp hosted at Dicky Beach SLSC. Events ranged from a 2km swim, 4km beach run, 6km board paddle and 6km ski paddle, which certainly tested Mackay’s best surf lifesavers.
“The club is extremely proud of our lifesavers achievements," Said Mr Grant, Director of Surf Sports.
"We have been preparing for this for a number of months now and to see our club take on the best in Australia and achieve at such a high level is something really special.”
“This has been a great experience for all our competitors and it's really good preparation for regional Qld’s biggest surf sports event - the North Australian Titles to be hosted at Harbour Beach, Mackay from the 31st Oct – 2nd November.”
The club took out 1 x Gold Medal, 4 x Silver Medals and 4 x Bronze medals as well as other minor places.
Contributed by Josh Grant
Results for week ending Sunday 28 September 2025
North/South East/West
1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Helen Van Den Broek- Jan Harris
2nd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 2nd Jayne Johnstone - Joy Hold
3rd Nancy Martin - Geoff Taylor 3rd Diane Stokes - Edward Kliese
Tuesday Evening 23 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Eric Goodchild - Noel Bugeia 1st Patricia Garner - Adrian Westcott
2nd Helen Van Den Broek - Tex Sheedy 2nd Janelle Conroy - Joy Hold
3rd Tere Wotherspoon – Frank Roach 3rd Sandra Morris - Diane Morgan
Wednesday 24 September 2025 – 7.5 Table Mitchell (Green Points)
North/South East/West
1st David Ting - Eric Goodchild 1st Noel Bugeia - Janelle Conroy
2nd Sandra Morris - Jan Harris 2nd Tere Wotherspoon - Kathleen Clifford
3rd Susan Wright - Mick King 3rd Gwen Liddell - Anne Lutz
4th Debra Goodchild - Ming Ting
Thursday Evening 25 September2025 – 4 Table Howell (Green Points)
1st Frances Brown - Ann Whitmore 3rd Geoff Taylor - Thelma Caruana
2nd Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia 4th Mick King - John Mcgee
Friday 26 September 2025 –6.5 Table Mitchell (Green Points)
North/South East/West
1st Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia 1st Christine Nice - Diane Cox
2nd Joy Robinson - Geoff Taylor 2nd Martin Pearce - Gwen Liddell
3rd Kath Poole - Nancy Martin 3rd David Ting - Ming Ting
Saturday 27 September 2025 – 10.5 Table Mitchell (Green Points)
North/South East/West
1st Janine Rodgers - Nancy Martin 1st Frances Brown - Alan Brown
2nd Ming Ting - David Ting 2nd Debra Goodchild - Eric Goodchild
3rd Joy Robinson - Ken Seaniger 3rd Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless
4th Geoff Taylor - Josie Crowley 4th Martin Pearce - Sandra Morris
5th Errol Morris - Adrian Westcott 5th Vicki Howard - Richard Wix
Sunday 28 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell (Green Points)
North/South East/West
1st Faith Hutchinson - Geoff Cowan 1st Lynne O'neill - Karen Caldwell
2nd Joy Hold - Anne Lutz 2nd Rodney Miles - Sandy Patterson
3rd Janine Rodgers - Jewel Schmidt 3rd John Mcgee - Adrian Westcott
Some of 2025 beginners who played in this years Novice Pairs Congress. Photo supplied
Throughout August, children had their coloured pencils, textas and crayons out, creating masterpieces that combined a love of cricket with a flair for art. The response far exceeded expectations, with more than 60 entries received in each division, making the job of choosing winners incredibly tough for judges.
With all the international cricket action at Harrup Park during August, the club thought this competition would be a fun way to get kids involved — and they certainly delivered.
Harrup Park Sports Development Officer, Mel Dwyer, said she was blown away by the "effort, creativity and even the research some children put in, with a few entrants going as far as googling the exact colours of our logos to make their work as realistic as possible."
“If I could give everyone a prize, I would,” said Mel.
After much deliberation, the following division winners were selected — some by the narrowest of margins:
"Congratulations to all our winners, and a huge thank you to everyone who entered. If you’re passing through Harrup Park, be sure to stop in and check out some of the amazing entries currently on display."
"We can’t wait to make this a highlight on the calendar and bring the Colouring In Competition back as an annual event."
Children combined their love of cricket and art in Harrup Park’s August Colouring In Competition, with over 60 entries per division and winners Gabriella, Zabina, and Lakey Love selected for their creativity and effort. Photos supplied
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BRIDGE
Twenty one players went to Airlie Beach on Wednesday to compete in the Airlie Red Point pairs event. Six pairs all placed, including Patricia Garner and Martin Pearce, and Alan and Frances Brown winning first place. Nancy Wix and Julie O’Neill who have never played together before came in a respectable fourth place.
Weekly Results
Monday 15 September 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 1st Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Vicki Howard / Susan Ross
3rd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 3rd Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane
Tuesday Evening 16 September 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Ian Cruickshank 1st Adrian Westcott / Janelle Conroy
2nd Janet Hansen / Thelma Caruana 2nd Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
Wednesday 17 September 2025 – Airlie Beach Congress – 11 Table Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Patricia Garner / Martin Pearce 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Betty Adison / Ellie Sheffield
3rd Renata Feige / Neil Cawthorne 3rd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
4th Elaine Hadlow / Jill Spencer 4th Nancy Wix / Julie O’Neill
5th Debbie Breeze / Susan McInnes 5th Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan
Wednesday 17 September 2025 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Geoff Taylor / Glen Cocup
3rd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 4th John McGee / Mick King
5th Griffin Bancroft / Nancy Martin 6th Sandra Morris / Errol Morris
Thursday Evening 18 September 2025 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy 2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 4th Patricia Garner / Griffin Bancroft
Friday 19 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Kath Poole / Nancy Martin 1st Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd Thelma Caruana / Joy Block
3rd Diane Stokes / Griffin Bancroft 3rd Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
Saturday 20 September 2025 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Martin Pearce 1st Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch
2nd Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin 2nd Sandra Morris / Ann Whitmore
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Susan Wright / Faye Wright
4th Ming Ting / David Ting 4th Geoff Cowan / Annette Howe
5th Erroll Morris / Ian Gaskell 5th Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill
Contributed by Joy Block
Nancy Wix, Neil Cawthorn and Julie O’Neill
Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan
Patricia Garner and Betty Aidnson. Photos supplied
Well Finals for Season 3 have arrived and they delivered with the top 2 teams in each Division battling it out. There has been some incredible matches throughout the season and congratulations to everyone on a great season.
Division 1: Fish (Goncalo Serra, Steven Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Bears (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) 7-4 with no 5 set matches but we did have some close 4 setters Josh come out on top by the skin of his teeth against Steve 13-11 in 4th set.
Division 2: Tigers (Allan Edwards, Geoff Cowan, Allan Robins) won against Cats (Duncan Treloar, Will VanDaKaa) 9-0 with Allan R snuck through against Duncan 13-11 in 5th set.
Division 3: Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan, Melanie Theodore) defeated Stiga (Simon Hogan, Val Austin) 7-4, Simon came out ahead against Noreen 11-6 in 5th set.
If you would like to play in our Fixtures or are interested in coming down for a hit. Mackay Table Tennis is holding a Come ‘n’ Try Day on Saturday 27th September, during the School Holidays. Please see our Facebook Page for more details. Everyone is very welcome!
Contributed by Andrea Nicholson
Steve Whiting, Jacob Whelan, Goncalo Serra
Geoff Cowan, Allan Edwards
Melanie Theodore, Noreen Frederickson. Photos supplied
Last Saturday, the Bakers Creek Tigers Senior Women’s AFL team played at the Great Barrier Reef Arena and came away with a thrilling Grand Final victory. The Tigers faced off against the Moranbah Bulldogs and secured the win, marking another milestone for the local club.
Community Bank Sarina, major supporters of the Tigers, said, “Congratulations to the Bakers Creek Tigers AFL Women's team who took away the Grand Final Win last weekend! As major supporters of the club, we love seeing this local club go from strength to strength - well done ladies!”
The win caps off a remarkable season for the Tigers and highlights the growing strength and skill of women’s football in the region.
2025 Women's AFL Team - Bakers Creek Tigers. Photo source: Bakers Creek Tigers AFL (Facebook)
Over the last few weeks, Mackay parkrun has been a hotbed of record-breaking performances, with runners of all ages smashing personal bests and age category benchmarks at the community-run 5km event held every Saturday at 7am.
Age Category Milestones
Zoe Woodward celebrated her 250th parkrun while smashing her own SW30-34 Age Category Record by 16 seconds, setting a new benchmark of 18:55.
Tayah Manttan continued her remarkable form in the JW15-17 category, lowering her own record by a further 38 seconds to go sub-19 minutes, finishing in 18:54. Earlier reports also noted her previous achievement of trimming her record to 19:32 – a testament to her ongoing improvement.
New Course Record
Jared Havemann made history by becoming the first runner to complete Mackay parkrun in under 16 minutes. His blistering 15:54 finish equates to an average pace of 3:11/km, setting a new course benchmark for speed.
Other Age Category Records
Three additional age category records were set:
SM20-24 – Jared Havemann, 15:54
SW18-19 – Ella Chappell, 21:09
SW45-49 – Skye Perkins, 18:25
Congratulations to all runners for their exceptional performances and for keeping the Mackay parkrun community vibrant and inspiring.
Looking for a great way to kick off the weekend? Mackay parkrun welcomes everyone to walk, jog, or run 5km at their own pace – it’s fun, friendly, and completely free!
Over the past few weeks, Mackay parkrun has seen multiple runners smash personal and age category records, including a sub-16-minute course finish, highlighting the community event’s spirit, speed, and inclusivity. Photo source: Mackay Parkrun (Facebook)
Sunset Bay Outriggers have been on the road again, testing their skills against the best paddlers in North Queensland, with 17 paddlers making the seven-hour journey to Mission Beach.
And the club did not come home disappointed.
Both the men’s and women’s crews struck gold in the marathon races, overcoming challenging water conditions.
Conditions worsened for the Senior Master Mixed crew’s marathon, but they held on to claim a silver medal for their efforts.
The women paddlers made the most of the opportunity to enter as many 500m sprints as possible, giving them valuable training ahead of their Nationals campaign in November.
All women’s and men’s crews medalled across the weekend.
Paddlers of the Saturday, Kim Alloway and Nicole Reseck, rode the waves home to collect another gold in the OC2 4km.
In the OC1 4km event, Graham Townson took gold, Bryan Wilkinson secured gold, and Mark Bell earned bronze.
On Sunday, worsening wind and water conditions meant only the brave and the “Crazies” of outrigger racing took to the water in either a 20km or 12km course.
Sunset Bay paddlers once again rose to the challenge, with Bryan Wilkinson and Steph Lomas taking gold in the OC2 20km. In the OC1 12km, Andrew Batterson claimed silver and Peter Drew also earned silver. Wilkinson and Lomas were named Paddlers of the Sunday.
The club is now turning its focus to the Australian National Sprint Titles, to be held in Coomera from November 13–16.
To support the journey to Nationals, Sunset Bay is hosting a Trivia Night on Friday, October 24, at 6:30pm upstairs at Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club. Tickets are $25 per person and can be booked through Eventbrite.
Anyone wishing to help Sunset Bay’s senior and junior paddlers get to the Nationals can contact Renee on 0412 448 805.
Sunset Bay Outriggers paddled to multiple medals at Mission Beach and now look ahead to the National Sprint Titles in November. Photos supplied
Wet and windy conditions did not deter more than 30 runners who lined up for the Mackay Road Runners’ Jo’s 70 Steps 5km and 10km event from the Gordon White Library carpark.
The loop course featured the demanding hills of Pollock and High Streets for the 5km, with 10km competitors doubling up for an extra loop. Timekeepers Rohan Miles and Julie Whibley kept results on track despite the conditions.
In the handicap start 5km, Gail Mackie claimed first place ahead of Steve Hayles, Jo Hughes, Emily Hayles, Jim Perkins, Kayla Waugh and Judy Zahn. Judy’s effort was notable as she backed up from a Table Tennis Tournament the previous day and was due to compete in the championships’ final day that afternoon. Natasha and Craig Joynson crossed eighth and ninth consecutively, followed by Kim Saron, Leanne Connor and David Isbister. Judy also appreciated Craig’s help through a slippery section of the course.
The 10km runners faced two loops, with Jeff Pearce taking line honours from his handicap start, finishing three minutes clear of juniors Toby Rule and Max Miles. They were followed by Justin Rule, Jeremy Taylor, Andrew Wallace, Alan Zamparutti, Derek Woods, Clinton Mackie and Jared Mackie. Carolyn Mapes was the first female, finishing ahead of Jose Short, Andrew Short, Stephen Oberg and Ashley Miles.
Cool and wet conditions saw runners and volunteers pack up quickly, with thanks to all helpers including Ashley Miles, who assisted after completing his own race.
Next Sunday’s run will be a social 5km and 10km from Bluewater Quay at 4pm, scheduled around the Whitsunday Trail Running Festival in Airlie Beach and the start of school holidays. Members and non-members are welcome.
In out-of-town racing, junior athlete Toby Rule delivered outstanding results at the School Sport Australia National Cross Country. He finished as the third Queenslander, fifth Australian and sixth overall, winning gold in the team event and another gold in the 18–19 years relay. Toby now turns to the Track and Field season, competing at the ANQ North Queensland Championships in Townsville during the September holidays in the 3000m steeplechase, 800m, 1500m and 5000m. He will then race at the QRSS Championships in late October at the All Schools Nationals before trialling for the World Cross Country Championships in November, aiming for selection in the Australian Under-20 team. Balancing these commitments with his final year of school, Toby continues to impress with his dedication.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
(left to right) Justin Rule, Clinton Mackie, Jared Mackie, Steve Hayles, Derek Woods and Gail Mackie collectively display over $2,000 worth of running shoes
Veteran running legend Judy Zahn took on a hive of athletic activity over the weekend with a Saturday/Sunday Table Tennis Tournament and Mackay Road Runners 5km Sunday morning
Toby Rule and Justin Rule battle it out in Jo’s 70 Steps 10km at the halfway turnaround point
Natasha and Craig Joynson are always smiling as they cross the finish line in unison
Jeff Pearce finished a sensational 10km run via the Jo’s 70 Steps handicap start, a challenging event
Emily Hayles takes out 4th overall in the Jo’s 70 Steps Handicap start 5km. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse
Mackay’s mountain biking community turned up the gears for the Mackay Cycles XCO Series 2, with riders of all ages battling tough trails and clocking impressive times. The event, held on September 13, saw fast racing, strong finishes, and plenty of local pride across every grade.
In the E-Bike categories, Zac Schwarzrock dominated the men’s field, completing five laps in 1:30:45, while Mel Maddison-Stanton powered to victory in the women’s race.
The hotly contested A Grade saw Ethan Weiss edge out fellow riders with a four-lap time of 1:20:14 in the men’s race, while elite road and MTB rider Ruth Corset claimed the women’s crown in 1:21:27.
B Grade Men went to Max Teague, whose consistency across three laps earned him the top step, while Naomi Ballard topped the B Grade Women division. In C Grade Men, Camden Brownsey led the pack, finishing just ahead of Eddie Rose and Scott Bennett.
The D Grade Men race was won by Ethan Green, and in the women’s field Isabella Land rode strongly to secure first place.
Juniors showed off the sport’s exciting future. Oaklan Marwood impressed in the U13 Boys, while Toby Maitland raced clear in the U11 Boys and Stella Goodwill shone in the U11 Girls. The U9 Boys produced some of the closest racing of the day, with Sacha Sawtell just holding off Ged Rafferty by three seconds.
Photo source: Mad Mountain Bike Club
9th September 2025
Evening Fixtures
Division 1 – Fish (Mick Ruhl, Steven Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Bears (Lily Boland, Lee Brake, Josh Brown) 9-2. Josh coming back from 2 sets down to beat Mick 11-6 in tight 5 sets.
Birds (Emma Widdup, Geoff Denman, Trent Day) defeated Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) 8-3. Geoff having a massive 5 sets with Vince, coming out on top 11-9.
Division 2 – Cats (Duncan Treloar, Graham Brake, Will VanDaKaa) defeated Horses (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent) 10-1. Graham winning by the skin of his teeth against Janice 14-12 in 5th set.
Tigers (Allan Edwards, Geoff Cowan, Tony Bowman) defeated Dogs (Ivan Perkins, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) 9-2. Allan came out in front against Mark in 5 sets 11-6.
Cows (Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Yilin Jiang) 7-2. No 5 setters but there were some tight matches.
Division 3 – Stiga (Simon Hogan, Frank Caruana, Val Austin) defeated Tibhar (Craig VanDaKaa, Ross DeBoer, Rod Hamelink) 7-4. Simon won close 5 sets against Craig 12-10.
Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan, Melanie Theodore) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) 7-4. Liz and Logan won in 5 sets over Samuel and Melanie 11-5.
Morning Fixtures
Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan) drew level with Wolf Pack (Pam Joyce, Delma Knight) 6-6. Noreen won against Delma 11-5 in 5th set.
Tiger Paws (Tony Bowman, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) defeated Bear Claws (Kevin Abbott, Judy Zahn, John McGee) 10-2. Bryan battled through to win against John McGee 11-9 in 5th set.
Shark Attack (Andrea Nicholson, Marie Taylor, Peter Goodson) had a draw with Lion Kings (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher) 6-6. Veronica defeated Peter 11-8 in close 5 sets.
Division 2 – Panther Pace (Frank Caruana, Peter Taber, Gerry Synnott) defeated Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Ian Dodds) 8-4. Frank won a massive 5 sets over Ken 17-15.
Python Spin (Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell, Kim Daffy) defeated Rhino Charge (Pam Kuene, Josie Davis) 8-4. Kim made a great comeback from 2 sets down to win 11-8 over Pam in 5 sets.
Division 3 – Bat Serves (Cheryl Pearson, Thelma Caruana) had a draw with Spider Smashes (Myles Dutton, Laurie Bradshaw, Madge Saunders) 6-6. Cheryl won a close 5 sets over Laurie 11-8.
Captin Spins and Iron Rallies just played a round robin as there was 3 players verses 1.
Noreen Frederickson
Veronica Shepherd
Kim Daffy. Photos supplied
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