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!

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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

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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

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

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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.

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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.

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1. George Camilleri
2. Duncan Treloar

At South Suburban Bowls Club

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:

• Group 1: Vicki Grenot & Aaron Sheriff – 7x Australian Open Singles Winner, Former Australian Rep & Current State Rep
• Group 2: Julia & Calum Brownlie – a husband & wife team from West Toowoomba Downs
• Group 3: Leticia Weir & Joshua Steffens – partners repping North Dalby & Condamine
• Group 4: Brenda & David Balchin – another husband & wife duo from Kawana, Sunshine Coast
• Group 5: Nicole & Tony Williams – a sibling powerhouse, champions of this event back in 2016, from Boonooroo & Sandy Straits
• Group 6: Jennifer Dingle & Ian McMah – from Waves, Underberg
• Group 7: Florence Ruggeri & Vince McSherry – our proud local reps from Mackay City & Mackay
• Group 8: Beverly Peters & Alex Murtagh – travelling all the way from Mount Isa. Alex is also a former QLD Rep

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)

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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.

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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

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- Terry Sheedy, Cnv. Anne, Ian Afflick
- Janet Morgan & Diane Morgan
- Simon Barnes & Martin Pearce
- Annette Howe, Anne, Jewell Schmidt.
Photos supplied

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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.

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Why Saunas And Contrast Therapy Boost More Than Muscles

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/

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Northern Beaches Dojo Marks 10 Years Of Strength And Spirit

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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

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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.

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For Mackay And District BMX

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.

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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

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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.

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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

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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

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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)

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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

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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

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

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Some of 2025 beginners who played in this years Novice Pairs Congress. Photo supplied

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Kids Shine At Harrup Park Colouring Competition

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:

• Upper Primary – Gabriella, Emmanuel Catholic College
• Lower Primary – Zabina, Mackay West State School
• Kindy Division – Lakey Love

"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."

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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

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Nancy Wix, Neil Cawthorn and Julie O’Neill
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Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan

Patricia Garner and Betty Aidnson. Photos supplied

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TABLE TENNIS

Evening Fixture Results – Finals Night

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

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Steve Whiting, Jacob Whelan, Goncalo Serra
Geoff Cowan, Allan Edwards
Melanie Theodore, Noreen Frederickson. Photos supplied

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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.

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2025 Women's AFL Team - Bakers Creek Tigers. Photo source: Bakers Creek Tigers AFL (Facebook)

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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!

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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)

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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.

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Sunset Bay Outriggers paddled to multiple medals at Mission Beach and now look ahead to the National Sprint Titles in November. Photos supplied

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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

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Mackay Cycles XCO Series 2 Delivers

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.

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Photo source: Mad Mountain Bike Club

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Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results

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.

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Noreen Frederickson
Veronica Shepherd
Kim Daffy. Photos supplied

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Mackay Teams Shine In Open And Unders & Overs Events

BRIDGE

Two team events were played last week. The Mackay Open Team and the Unders and Overs Team Events. Ten teams of four players competed in a full day competition in the Open Team event for Red Points.

Winners were the Brown Team - Frances Brown, Alan Brown, Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan only lost one game for the event. The Under and Overs Team event is an opportunity for Novices to play with more experienced players in a team competition. Mackay has arguably the best calendar of events for nurturing its new and emerging players in Queensland encouraging and supporting new members.

Winners of the event for 2025 were team Ramsden - Mary Rose Ramsden, Frances Brown, Geoffrey Patterson and Sandy Patterson.

Weekly Results

Monday 8 September 2025 – NWP Week 17 of 25 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia 2nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
3rd Pamela Finger / Ming Ting 3rd Annette Howe / Sue Mayer-Miller
4th Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 4th Victor Mason / Janet Hansen

Tuesday Evening 9 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins 1st Andrew Canavan / Janine Rodgers
2nd Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 2nd Christine Morrison / Glen Cocup
3rd Janet Hansen / Thelma Caruana 3rd Martin Pearce / Christopher Meyers

Wednesday 10 September 2025 – Under and Overs Team event 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
Team Names
1st Ramsden Mary Rose Ramsden, Frances Brown, Geoffrey Patterson, Sandy Patterson
2nd Mayer-Miller Sue Mayer-Miller, Noel Bugeia, Janelle Conroy, Martin Pearce
3rd Carless Robert Carless, Karen Caldwell, Victor Mason, Geoff Taylor
4th Hutchinson Faith Hutchinson, Josie Crowley, Barbara Tait, Christina Brady

Thursday Evening 11 September 2025 – 4Table One Winner Green Points
1st Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore 2nd Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
3rd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 4th Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

Friday 12 September 2025 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger 2nd Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 4th David Ting / Ming Ting
5th Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 6th Joy Block / Thelma Caruana

Saturday 13 September 2025 –Mackay Open Teams Red Points
Team Names
1st Brown Alan Brown, Frances Brown, Janet Hansen, Diane Morgan
2nd Bugeia Noel Bugeia, Terry Sheedy, Robert Carless, Janelle Conroy
3rd Cruickshank Ian Cruickshank, Ian Gaskell, Adrian Westcott, Patricia Garner
4th O’Neill Julie O’Neill, Griffin Bancroft, Diane Stokes, Ann Whitmore
5th Harris Jan Harris, Susan Wright, Marilin Robins, Faye Wright
6th Ting David Ting, Ming Ting, Geoffrey Patterson, Sandy Patterson

Contributed by Joy Block

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Geoff and Winners Janet, Diane, Alan, Francie. Photo supplied

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By Amanda Wright

The CiteCon Kingfishers soared to their second Porters Mitre 10 T20 Smash title on Saturday night, defeating the Gibbs Air & Refrigeration Crocs in a thrilling Grand Final at Great Barrier Reef Arena.

Led by captain Sam Vassallo, who won the toss and chose to bat first, the Kingfishers set the tone early in front of a lively crowd and online audience tuning into the Mackay Cricket Association’s livestream. The highly anticipated clash had been billed as a battle between the Kingfishers’ dominant run and the Crocs’ hunger to cause an upset – and it delivered every bit of drama expected of a championship decider.

The night, however, belonged to Zane Newton. Returning home to Mackay from Brisbane, where he plays with Northern Suburbs Cricket Club, Newton produced a match-winning performance with 46 runs and a wicket. His efforts earned him the Player of the Final award and ensured the Kingfishers’ crown remained firmly in place.

The triumph capped off an outstanding campaign for the Kingfishers, backed by team owners Bec and Brad Gardner from CiteCon, head coach Luke Kennedy, and a squad that combined consistent firepower with depth across the park. Their success confirmed the Kingfishers as the benchmark side of the competition, building on the momentum from their previous championship.

While the Kingfishers lifted the trophy, it was BTB Electrical Breakers’ Mitchell Wadsworth who walked away with the competition’s highest individual honour, being named Player of the Tournament. Wadsworth tallied 147 runs, including two half-centuries, and claimed 11 wickets – highlighted by an impressive five-wicket haul. His all-round brilliance across the six rounds made him an undeniable choice for the award.

Coaches also cast their votes for the Porters Mitre 10 T20 Smash Team of the Tournament, recognising 12 standout performers. Among those named were Kingfishers trio Vassallo, Jaxn Sign and rising under-20 talent Jack Law, alongside Crocs representatives Etienne Pretorius, Mahesh Rajaratne, Lane Kohler and Luke Jackson.

The CiteCon Kingfishers

Action from the Porters Mitre 10 T20 Smash series between the CiteCon Kingfishers and the Gibbs Air & Refrigeration Crocs at Great Barrier Reef Arena. Photo source: Mackay Cricket (Facebook)

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Sarina’s shoreline was filled with energy and community spirit last month as the 2025 Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim drew strong crowds and picture-perfect conditions.

Hosted by Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club, the annual event featured five different runs – from the 1km dash through to the testing half marathon – as well as two new ocean swim distances of 1km and 2km. Proceeds from the day go directly to supporting the vital work of the volunteer Surf Lifesaving Club.

Returning as naming rights sponsor, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank joined participants and supporters on the day, reflecting the important role local organisations play in bringing the event to life.

“You could not have asked for a better day for it! Well done to Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club for yesterday's Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim. We had a wonderful time and it was such a pleasure to see so many from our community out together – enjoying the beautiful sunshine and views on Sarina Beach. Thank you to our Branch Team, Board and scholarship recipients who were able to make it and join in on the fun!” Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank said.

Major sponsors Wilmar Sugar and Renewables and North Queensland Bulk Ports also backed the event, along with support from Ray White Rural Sarina, The Clubhouse Sarina Beach, Permanent Way Solutions, Mackay Regional Council and Rebel Nation.

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Locals and visitors took part in runs and ocean swims under sunny skies at the 2025 Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim. Photo source: Rebel Nation and Community Bank Sarina

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Junior cricket is officially back, with players from U12 to U17 taking to the fields across Mackay, Sarina, and Proserpine for their eagerly anticipated season openers. With no senior fixtures scheduled this past weekend, it paved the way for a thrilling “Super Sunday” of junior cricket.

In Sarina, the U13 sides of Sarina and Souths were first to hit the field. Sarina picked up right where they left off last season, delivering a dominant run chase led by strong performances from Mackenna Jeffs and Beau Wallace. The home side bowled out Souths in just 17 overs to secure a comfortable victory.

Following the U13 clash, the U14s took centre stage. Souths, sent in to bat by Sarina, started strongly with Beau McPherson anchoring the innings with a well-crafted 63 off 70 balls. Souths posted a solid total of 6/134. Their bowlers then put on a disciplined display, keeping extras to a minimum and maintaining tight lines. Spencer, Jack, and Hunter each claimed two wickets as Souths held off a determined Sarina batting effort to claim the win — reinforcing their status as title contenders once again this season.

Over in Proserpine, all three fields were in full swing with matches being played on all three fields. Walkerston and Pinnacle made the trip up the highway to enjoy some classic Proserpine hospitality. In the U17 match, Walkerston claimed victory thanks to an explosive batting performance from Ayden Loader, who smashed an unbeaten 88 from just 67 deliveries. The home teams found success in the U12 and U13 matches, with young gun Matthew Hope celebrating his first half-century in the Mackay competition during the U13 game.

Mackay was not left out, hosted a full day of action, with Norths putting on a Hawaiian-themed Super Sunday fundraiser at Beaconsfield. Meanwhile, Harrup Park played host to the U15 matches.

Looking ahead, Round 2 of the junior competition will take place this Sunday before a short break for the school holidays. Term 4 promises even more action with the launch of the U11 competition, Wednesday night Master Blaster comp, and the return of the Friday afternoon Girls Heat League.

It’s not too late to get involved! Head to play.cricket.com.au to find your local club and register today.

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Junior cricket returned in style across Mackay, Sarina, and Proserpine, with U12 to U17 players lighting up “Super Sunday” in a thrilling season opener. Photos supplied

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Mackay’s BB Print Stadium turned into a cauldron of colour and noise last Saturday as all four Mackay Brothers sides lined up for the Rugby League Mackay & District 2025 Grand Finals – an achievement in itself, two years running.

The famous bagpipes heralded in a sea of blue supporters who roared their sides on across the day. By full-time, Brothers had claimed two premierships, while Moranbah and Souths ensured the spoils were shared.

Brothers’ day began in style with their Under 20s powering home to beat Wests Tigers 32–24. Trailing at the break, the young Fish surged late to complete an undefeated season under coach DC. “2025 Premiers! Down at halftime but never out of the fight – what a way to kick off Grand Final Day,” the club declared.

The momentum rolled on as the Brothers women’s team delivered a dominant 42–14 win over Moranbah Miners to claim their third straight premiership. It was a remarkable turnaround after struggling to field a side early in the year. “Three in a row – congrats ladies!” the club posted, calling the result “an absolute blinder in the grand final.”

Moranbah struck back in Reserve Grade with a powerful 40–6 victory over the minor premiers Brothers. The Miners crossed for seven tries – Dylan Womal bagging a double – with Callum Wilson nailing six conversions. “Despite the windy conditions, the Miners played a hard game in attack and defence, making the most of Brothers’ errors,” the club said. Dylan Womal’s standout performance earned him Player of the Game honours.

The stage was then set for the A Grade decider, where Souths Sharks toppled Brothers 24–6. Souths crossed four times through Blake Coombes, Marmin Barba (twice) and Jesuah Wini, while Brothers’ only try came via Thomas McNulty. Jared Maguire added the conversion. The Sharks also slotted a penalty goal and endured a sin-bin to Tyrese Parter but otherwise controlled the contest.

Brothers reflected proudly on an historic season. “For all four of our grades to make the grand final, two years running, is something truly special. We couldn’t be prouder of our players, coaches, managers, league safes, committee and everyone who makes Brothers the club it is.”

As the dust settles, the region can celebrate a day of finals footy that showcased resilience, skill, and the enduring passion of Mackay’s rugby league community

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Brothers Under 20s celebrate their premiership win. Photos supplied

Brothers Women’s team crowned 2025 Premiers – their third straight title

Miners supporters in fine voice during Reserve Grade decider

Souths Sharks lift the A Grade trophy after their 24–6 win over Brothers

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BOWLS

Ladies Pennant Season has now been completed, with all four divisions well represented again this year, with mixed results.

Division 1 this year has seen our ladies triumphant, placing first in this division.  The ladies team will now travel to Emerald on the 20th September 2025 to represent the Mackay District, to play against the Leichhardt District (Zone 7). The very best of luck and great bowling to every one playing.

Our Division 4 ladies proudly won second place this year as well.

Thank you to all the district clubs for great camaraderie and friendship in all the games that were played.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

Division 1

Division 2

Division 3

Division 4. Photos supplied

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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

BRIDGE

Monthly incentive awards are given by the committee to players as an encouragement to play more and learn more.

Winners were Martin Pearce, Laura Howland, Adrian Westcott, Sue Mayer-Miller, Karen Cadwell, Joy Block, Jewel Schmidt, Martin Pearce, Chris Meyers, Sue Ross and Errol Morris. Congratulations and well done to all.

Weekly Results

Monday 1 September 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 1st Eric Goodchild / David Ting
2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Diane Stokes / Eddie Kleise

Tuesday Evening 2 September 2025 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janet Hansen / Thelma Caruana 2nd Diane Stokes / Adrian Westcott
3rd John McGee / Mick King 4th Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

Wednesday 3 September 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris 2nd Victor Mason / John Ludkin
3rd Eric Goodchild / David Ting 3rd Geoff Taylor / Karen Cadwell
4th Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait 4th Debbie Ludkin / Diane Cox

Thursday Evening 4 September 2025 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Jan Harris / Terry Sheedy 2nd Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes

Friday 5 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen
2nd David Ting / Ming Ting 2nd Diane Stokes / Griffin Bancroft
3rd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 3rd Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

Saturday 6 September 2025 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd Joy Block / Faye Wright 2nd Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Patricia Garner / Robert Carless
4th Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell 4th Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

Contributed by Joy Block

Martin Pearce, Laura Howland
Adrian Westcott, Sue Mayer-Miller
Karen Cadwell
Joy Block, Jewel Schmidt
Martin Pearce, Chris Meyers, Sue Ross and Errol Morris. Photos supplied

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On Monday, 1st September, St Patrick’s College Chess teams competed at the MCC Junior Campus for the final Gardiner Chess Interschool Competition of the year. With more than 45 students across 12 teams taking part, chess at the College continues to grow from strength to strength.

The College’s Premier team has once again secured a spot at the State Titles in Term 4, set to face off against Queensland’s top players. The community eagerly anticipates seeing their talent on display.

Special recognition was given to the Year 12 seniors, whose leadership and dedication have been key to the development and success of chess at St Patrick’s College. As they prepare to graduate, their contributions, along with the memories, merits, and medals earned, will be fondly remembered.

Well done to all students for a fantastic season.

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St Patrick’s College Chess teams ended the year strong, with the Premier team qualifying for State Titles and Year 12 seniors recognised for their leadership. Photo source: St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay (Facebook)

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Last weekend, the Mackay Rowing Club hosted the second annual Head of the Pioneer 10-kilometre regatta at Pleystowe, bringing together crews from across the region for a challenging day on the water.

Despite strong winds that tested every competitor, the event was a celebration of skill, determination, and community spirit. Crews from Townsville, Ruway, Ju, and Helro joined Mackay’s own rowers for the rolling-start race, which began at the river’s weir, included a turnaround, and finished across the river near the club.

Club President Cameron Slack reflected on the appeal of rowing for locals.

“Rowing is a sport you can keep doing forever. Older members in our clubs, 60, 70, are going away to world championships, and having the opportunity to medal is pretty cool.”

Slack said the regatta also offered a rare chance for rowers from different towns to come together, compete, and enjoy the camaraderie.

“It’s just a great sport to be involved in, and it’s nice to see so many on the water.”

For many participants, rowing is about more than just competition. World Champion gold medalist Therese Clancy, who has been rowing since 2016, said she was encouraged to try the sport by a friend.

“I got hooked. It’s gentle on your body, and I’ve competed in Germany and at state nationals,” she said, reflecting on her journey in rowing.

“It’s been an amazing experience so far.”

Whitsunday Anglican School student Xavier Wheaton, a rower since 2020, described both the social and fitness benefits of the sport.

“I love rowing with friends… it’s such a great sport, and you can do it for a long time,” he said.

The race produced standout performances, with Mackay’s eight-person crew and Townsville’s double, Wayne and Mark, posting the fastest times. Despite the strong winds, the crews navigated the 10-kilometre course with determination, highlighting the skill and endurance required for competitive rowing.

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Last weekend, Mackay Rowing Club hosted the second annual Head of the Pioneer 10K regatta at Pleystowe. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Junior And Senior Softball Wrap-Up

Young Joey Ball and Rookieball players are buzzing with excitement as they prepare for their grand finals on Saturday, 6th September. It promises to be a fun-filled day, with trophy presentations to follow after the games at 11.30am.

Under 14

Dragons Get the Power proved too strong for Dragons Tyre Power, running away with an 11–1 victory.
Levi Counsell impressed with three at-bats, crossing home plate each time. Teammates Sienna Kitto and Chloe Mackenzie showed patience at the plate, picking up two walks each and also scoring twice.

For Tyre Power, Lachlan Mickle was the sole run scorer. Audrey Hartl, Eleanor Wallace, and Shanya Steven all reached base on walks but were unable to add to the tally. In the field, Shanya and Audrey both took important catches to help keep the scoreline down.

With the win, Get the Power secured their place in the grand final.

B Ladies

The Dragon Slayers finished the season in 6th place, while the Pink Hawks secured 5th after taking out their clash 17–9.

The Slayers rotated positions for fun in their final match. Casey Hayes impressed at shortstop, putting her body on the line, assisting with outs, and collecting two safe hits. Eli Oldham and Audra Pollard also hit safely, while Erin Boulding stood out with three hits, including a massive home run to left field.

For the Hawks, Krystal Ford delivered four safe hits and a catch, while Darcy Dorsett pitched superbly, allowing just one walk, assisting three outs, and taking a catch. Out in left field, Zoe Knight was kept busy by the Slayers’ bats.

Elsewhere, Dr Flies defeated Golden Oldies 14–10 to book a finals clash with Arch Angel.
For Dr Flies, Lynn Hamett, Tina Teale, and Sarah Jurg all crossed the plate three times each, while Hannah Wallace delivered three big hits to left field. Tina also took three catches in the field.

Golden Oldies fought hard, with Donna Reid, Alison Poyner, and Narida Bates all scoring twice. Pitcher Trish Bueithe did a great job on the mound, while Donna Reid and Linda Parry also took catches.

B Men

In the men’s division, Custom recorded an 11–5 victory over Hawks Heavy Iron.

Heavy Iron struggled to convert their big outfield hits, with substitutes Peyton Barrow and Kacee Shultz making key catches for Custom. Mitchell Robbins, Heath Taylor, and Justin Locher each picked up two base hits, while Taylor, Warren Bekker, and sub Jess Martin also took catches.

Custom’s Matt Ramsamy and Gary Cunningham both crossed the plate four times, with Cunningham adding a home run. Scott Single contributed three solid hits to right field, while Darren Frew and Cameron Corbett added catches to round out the win.

The Hawks Heavy Iron will now face Dragons Ausgroup in the final.

Game times  6th September

930am Rookieball  grand final
11am   joey ball    grand final
1130am      presentation
1230pm   u/14   Choas Angels   v Dunbar Angels    finals
230pm  Heavy Iron  v  Ausgroup      finals
230pm    Arch angels  v  Dr flies    finals
230pm   xtreem angel   v  BCN

Good luck to all teams playing this weekend.

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

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Local baseball teams gear up for grand finals this Saturday. Photos supplied

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The Annual Mackay Road Runners Shields Stampede 5km and 12km has been a mainstay on the local running calendar for more than 30 years. The historic event, generously hosted by club life members Wendy and Merv Shields from their Mount Pleasant residence, has long challenged competitors with its undulating, twisting course through Beaconsfield and Andergrove before the descent back to the Karl Langer Crescent finish line.

Wendy and Merv have played an integral role in the longevity of the Mackay Road Runners, not only through the Shields Stampede but also as sponsors of other events, including the prestigious Eungella King and Queen of the Mountain.

As always, the post-race afternoon tea was a highlight, with Wendy providing an array of delicious snacks alongside tea and coffee. Random draw prizes were also awarded in the lead-up to Father’s Day. Thanks went to Zamp for donating Strategic Media Partners merchandise, which was well received by winners, while other lucky competitors took home Father’s Day-themed gifts that may have saved them a trip to the shops.

On the course, excellent performances were delivered across both distances. In the 12km, spectators witnessed a thrilling sprint finish as father-and-son duo Justin and Toby Rule crossed the line together, with the photo finish giving Justin the victory by the narrowest of margins. Third overall and first female was Alana Knezevic, who set a blistering pace to claim gold for the women, finishing ahead of Ashley Miles and Clinton Mackie, all breaking the one-hour barrier.

In the 5km, Roscoe McDonnell was a clear winner, finishing five minutes ahead of second overall and first female Gail Mackie. Jo Hughes and Emma Johnson rounded out the top four.

The club also acknowledged the achievements of members competing outside the region, including at the Sydney Marathon and personal challenges such as the 4x4x48 Goggins Challenge. Standout Sydney performances included Paul Mackenzie (2:58:15), Corey Gould (3:33), Leon Sant (3:44) and Jeff Shaw (4:16).

Special recognition went to Andrew Short, who was instrumental in ensuring the Shields Stampede went ahead after last-minute Ergon repair works disrupted the usual course. Andrew swiftly re-mapped the route to create a safe 5km and 12km track, organised signage, and updated maps, before completing the 12km run himself and then collecting the signage afterwards. His ongoing dedication — including maintaining club equipment — was praised by members, who described him as a true club legend.

Next on the calendar, the Mackay Road Runners will assist the crew at the Botanic Gardens Parkrun on Lagoon Street, West Mackay, for the pre-Father’s Day Parkrun this Saturday at 7am. Volunteers are asked to arrive by 6.30am for briefing. The club will not host its own event next Sunday in recognition of Father’s Day.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Mackay Road Runners long-serving members (left to right) – Jan Smith, Judy Zahn and Wendy Shields.
Alana Knezevic  (left) and Alan Zamparutti get ready to race the 12km Shields Stampede.
Approx forty runners and supporters took part in the very popular annual Shields Stampede 5k & 12k.
Justin Rule (left) hits the tape by a whisker ahead of Toby Rule.
Emma Johnson and Jo Hughes catch up after the Shields Stampede 5km.
Carmel Mahon (centre) thanks timekeepers Julie Whibley (left) and Rohan Miles for their weekly efforts. Photo credit: Janelle TIlse

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The Mackay Cutters faced challenging encounters over the weekend, with both the women's and men's teams experiencing defeats.

At BB Print Stadium in Mackay, the BMD Premiership women's team narrowly lost to the Western Clydesdales, 16–18. Despite tries from M. Powell (28'), J. Kimber (55'), and C. Tanner (61'), and two successful conversions by Emily Bella, the Cutters couldn't secure the win. The Clydesdales responded with tries from K. Jackson (14'), K. Taylor (24'), and M. Prentice (47'), along with three conversions from R. Beardmore and Z. Cook.

Meanwhile, the Hostplus Cup men's team traveled to Redcliffe for round 23, where they suffered a 16–34 loss to the Dolphins. The Cutters struggled in the first half, trailing 0–20 at the break. However, they regrouped and matched the Dolphins in the second half, showcasing resilience despite the final scoreline.

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Mackay Meteorettes standout Unique Thompson has claimed the 2025 NBL1 North Women’s Most Valuable Player award after another dominant season. She also took home the titles of NBL1 North scoring champion and earned a spot on the All-Star First Team. Her meteoric impact was undeniable.

Thompson’s stat line was among the league’s most impressive. She led the conference in scoring with 23.2 points per game and grabbed a league-best 15.3 rebounds per game—a commanding double-double average. Her numbers made her an offensive and rebounding force unmatched across the NBL1 North.

Her standout performances were not limited to regular season stats. In a thrilling showdown against the Sunshine Coast Phoenix, Thompson delivered a 30-point, 13-rebound double-double to help seal a tight 92–89 win for the Meteorettes. That game, filled with lead changes and tension, showcased Thompson’s ability to elevate her game when it mattered most.

This MVP recognition further cements Thompson’s growing reputation—not just as a scoring machine, but as a leader and game-changer for Mackay. With her sights now set on the WNBL, this season will be remembered as a defining chapter in her rising basketball journey.

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MACKAY TABLE TENNIS FIXTURE RESULTS - 26th August 2025

Tuesday Evening Fixture

Division 1 – Fish (Mick Ruhl, Steven Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) 9-2. Great doubles match between Mick / Steven won over Barry / Vince 11-9 in 5th Set.

Bears (Goncalo Serra, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) defeated Birds (Trent Day, Emma Widdup, Anne Sheridan) 8-3 with Emma having a massive 5 Set match with Lee and she won 13-11.

Division 2 – Tigers (Allan Edwards, Geoff Cowan, Allan Robins) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Rymer Tabulo, Yilin Jiang) 9-2. Andrea came back from 2 sets down to win over Geoff 11-9 in 5 Sets.

Horses (Syed Animul Hossain, Donna Abbott, Ollie Hamelink) defeated Cows (Steve Mathieson, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) 6-5. Both doubles matches went to 5 Sets, Syed / Donna won against Graeme / Ian 11-8.

Dogs (Geoff Denman, Peter Goodson) defeated Cats (Duncan Treloar, Will VanDeKaa) 3-2. Geoff won very close 5 Sets over Duncan 12-10.

Division 3 – Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan, Melanie Theodore) defeated Stiga (Val Austin, Coral Morgan, Josie Davis) 7-4. Val / Coral winning massive 5 sets over Melanie / Samuel 11-9.

Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDeKaa, Marie Taylor) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown)   8-3. Marie defeating Liz 11-7 in the 5th Set.

Tuesday Morning Results

Division 1 – Wolf Pack (Steve Mathieson, Virginia Clayton, Pam Joyce) defeated Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) 8-4 with Kevin sneaking through against Steve to win 5th Set 11-9.

Shark Attack (Doug Dungavell, Marie Taylor, Peter Goodson) defeated Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic), Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Branko / Noreen won in 5 Sets over Peter /Doug 11-5.

Tiger Paws (Allan Robins, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) defeated Lion Kings (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher) 9-3 with Veronica winning against Bryan 11-6 in the 5th Set.

Divison 2 – Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Ian Dodds) defeated Python Spin (Robyn Giles, Kim Daffy, Robyn Bushell) 9-3. Kim won tight 5 Sets against Ken 11-8.

Rhino Charge (Peter Taber, Josie Davis) defeated Panther Pace (Frank Caruana, Gerry Synnott) 7-2. Peter / Josie won against Frank / Gerry 12-10 in 4 Sets.

Division 3 – Captin Spins (Sharon Muller, Allison Day) defeated Bat Serves (Cheryl Pearson, Glenda Brooks) 5-4. Allison won in tight 5 Sets over Cheryl 11-8.

Spider Smashers and Iron Rallies played a round robin as there was only 3 players. Laurie defeated Madge over 11-5 in 5 Sets.

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Emma Widdup

Andrea Nicholson. Photos supplied

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On Monday 18 August and Wednesday 20 August the Marian ladies held their annual Master 4's.  This started with 15 teams - 60 ladies - on Monday with the top 4 teams going into Wednesday.  There were many very close games during the first day with lots of laughter and good sportsmanship shown.

The eventual winners were Airlie Beach from North Mackay in a great game of bowls.

Contributed by Lyn Jackson

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BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival Supports Lifesaving Local Organisations

This weekend, the Mackay community will once again come together in a powerful show of unity at this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival, with every pedal stroke helping to support two vital local organisations – BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

Kate Sommerville, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, highlighted BMA’s long-standing commitment to the Mackay community.

“Every rider at this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival reflects the strength and spirit of our community. Whether riding for rescue services, disability inclusion, or in honour of someone special, this event is about supporting causes that matter most in our region.

“When our industry thrives, so do the communities where we work. While it’s no secret that mining is under pressure from global market conditions and the Queensland Government’s unsustainable coal taxes, BMA remains deeply committed to Mackay and regional Queensland.”

Now celebrating its 15th year, the festival has become one of Mackay’s most loved community sporting events, attracting hundreds of cyclists of all ages and abilities to ride together while raising vital funds for BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.

Registrations are still open, and proceeds from every entry directly benefit BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay, ensuring the event’s impact continues well beyond the ride weekend.

With rides ranging from family-friendly distances to longer endurance challenges, the event provides an opportunity for everyone aged 3yrs+ to get involved across 2 great days – whether on a bike (or if you’re 12 and under jump on your scooter instead), cheering from the sidelines, or simply showing support.

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This weekend, Mackay’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival unites the community, raising funds for BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay. Photos supplied

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With Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Twenty-two Mackay players competed in the Yeppoon Congress last Weekend. Frances and Alan Brown won the A Grade Pairs, with Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris winning the B Grade Pairs. Alan and Frances Brown joined by Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan also took out the A Grade Team event. B Grade Teams event was won by team Harris, Jan Harris, Helen Van Den Broek, Martin Pearce and Hilary Gunthorp. All players played extremely well in the Red point events.

Weekly Results

Monday 25 August 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
2nd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
3rd Jennifier Cameron / Joy Hold 3rd Christine Fitzpatrick / Colleen Riddel

Tuesday Evening 26 August 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Thelma Caruana 1st Christine Morrison / Glen Cocup
2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy

Wednesday 27 August 2025 – Australian Wide Open Pairs 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Eric Goodchild / David Ting 1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd Joy Block / Diane Stokes 2nd Geoff Taylor / Karen Cadwell
3rd Anne Howe / Susan Ross 3rd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
4th Geoffrey Patterson / Sandy Patterson 4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen

Thursday Evening 28 August 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott 2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

Friday 29 August 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
2nd Karen Cadwell / Gwen Liddell 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix 3rd Janine Rodgers / Adrian Westcott

Saturday 30 August 2025 –6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st David Ting / Ming Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers / Mick King
3rd Geoff Taylor / Karen Cadwell 4th Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

Contributed by Joy Block

Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris - Yeppoon B Grade Winning Pair

Mackay players celebrate after a winning weekend at Yeppoon. Photos suppl

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Mackay roared with the thrill of international cricket over the weekend, as the BKT Tyres ODI series between Australia and South Africa delivered both heartbreak and historic triumphs at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. Our coastal city proved it could host world-class sport, with fans witnessing performances that will be talked about amongst cricket fanatics for generations to come.

The series opened on Friday night, August 22, with a tense contest, as South Africa silenced the home crowd, clinching an 84-run victory to take a 2-0 lead. Choosing to bat first, the Proteas posted a competitive 277, anchored by Matthew Breetzke’s fluent 81 and Tristan Stubbs’ composed 74. Australia’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Xavier Bartlett continuing his impressive start in national colours, and leg-spinners Adam Zampa and Marnus Labuschagne claiming five between them.

Australia’s reply faltered early, slipping to 3-38, before Josh Inglis ignited the innings with a spirited 87 – his highest score at home. Yet, when Lungi Ngidi (5-42) removed Inglis, Australia’s momentum collapsed, and South Africa extended their remarkable run to five consecutive ODI series wins over the Aussies.

But Mackay’s cricket faithful had reason to cheer on Sunday, August 24, witnessing a performance for the ages. Australia amassed a record 2-431, their highest ODI total on home soil, with Travis Head (142), Mitchell Marsh (100), and Cameron Green (118 off 55 balls) all striking centuries – the first time in men’s ODI history Australia’s top three have achieved this feat. Green’s explosive maiden ton, featuring eight sixes, had the crowd on its feet, while Alex Carey added a brisk unbeaten 50.

South Africa never recovered, bowled out for just 155 in 25 overs. Youngster Cooper Connolly capped the night with a dream debut, claiming a maiden five-wicket haul (5-22). Australia’s 276-run triumph, their second-largest ODI victory, salvaged pride and offered Mackay spectators a front-row seat to cricketing history, even as South Africa secured the series 2-1.

Ahead of the clash, Cameron Green reflected on the team’s approach.

“I think we’ve all played enough cricket now and hopefully we can read the situation really well… I think we know that we like to play a pretty positive brand of cricket.”

On playing in Mackay, he added, “It’s lovely to be up here… The wicket looks like a beauty… and I think it’ll be a terrific game.”

Adrienne Young, CEO of Great Barrier Reef Arena, highlighted the broader significance of hosting international cricket.

“It’s the pathway we’re on to hopefully be a venue at the Olympics… I’m really passionate about Harrup Park, and the Great Barrier Reef Arena… to build this into an Olympic venue, grow cricket as a sport in the region, and help other sports develop facilities and community programs.”

On the importance of fostering regional sporting stars, Mr Young says, “You can’t be what you can’t see.”

“It’s just wonderful that there’ll be young boys and girls here who’ll be able to see not only players… but their icons right here in our region.”

While the weekend was a sell-out, Young acknowledged challenges, particularly in accommodation, noting plans are underway with regional stakeholders to ensure Mackay is ready for future international events.

Mackay’s cricketing weekend may have delivered both heartbreak and heroics, but the city’s rising stature on the global stage was undeniable. From record-breaking centuries to dream debuts, the Great Barrier Reef Arena proved that this regional hub is keen to host world-class cricket, and perhaps, one day, the Olympics.

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Mackay made history as the Great Barrier Reef Arena hosted Australia and South Africa in a thrilling ODI series, delivering heartbreak, heroics, and record-breaking moments. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Mackay SLSC “Guardians of Harbour Beach since 1950” are kicking off the start of their season with a Sign On Day, Sunday the 31st of August from 9am – 11am at the surf club located at Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach.

The Surf Club is holding “come and try” days for the whole of September.  With surf education, fitness and beach skill activities, as well as a whole lot of fun being held from 8.45am each Sunday.

The Nipper’s family will provide stinger suits, boards and all other equipment needed to get involved.  Just bring your togs, sunscreen and a towel, plus Mum and Dad.

“We had a really fun season last year, it was great to see our nippers grow not only in numbers but also in their individual confidence in the surf and with learning about being a lifesaver” said Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports.

“Our parent helpers are fantastic as well, getting involved with their children and building our club culture.  It really is a family orientated and welcoming sport.”

Nippers is a surf development program catering for children aged from 5 – 14 years, after which they move into the Junior and Senior lifesaving ranks.  A typical Nippers morning will involve a structured warm-up and surf education such as signals, rescue techniques and reading the surf for rips or stingers (which we get very rarely), beach training such as flag / beach races and relays, then water-based activities that are age appropriate.  The morning finishes with a family sausage sizzle at the canteen where all nipper families catch up.

The club has a focus on developing skills from our youngest children up to our older teenagers and starts with play-based confidence and skill activities for the young ones which progresses to surf sports competition training for more advanced lifesavers.

If you or your family are interested in finding out more about being a nipper, come along and try!

If you would like any more information, please contact the Junior Activity Coordinator Lexie Schiffer on juniors@mackayslsc.com.au

"We hope to see you at the Beach!"

Contributed by Josh Grant

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Nippers is all about fun, friends, confidence and surf safety, with the Mackay Surf Club Nipper Family ready for another ripper season at Harbour Beach. Photos supplied

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District Champ Of Champ Triples

The District Champ of Champ Triples were played across two days at the Marian Bowls Club, beginning Wednesday, 13th August, with the final contested on Thursday, 14th August 2025.

The final saw Airlie Beach face off against North Mackay in a thrilling clash full of surprises, skill, and steady nerves. Heading into the last end it was anyone’s game, but Airlie Beach held firm to secure victory by just one point. Congratulations to all who took part in this district event, with special mention to Airlie Beach on their hard-fought win over a determined North Mackay side.

District Master Fours 2025

The District Master Fours followed at Marian Bowls Club, with semi-finals on Monday, 18th August, and the final on Wednesday, 20th August 2025.

Once again, the last match came down to Airlie Beach and North Mackay, showcasing a wealth of talent from across the region. The North Mackay ladies – Lois Deguara, Deb Mackenzie and Isla Comelli – were joined by St Helen’s bowler Joyce Bloomfield in a determined battle to the finish. However, Airlie Beach proved too strong in the closing ends, claiming victory.

Congratulations to Airlie Beach on their success, and to all competitors in the Master Fours who represented their clubs with pride.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Winners from Airlie Beach in blue, with Runners up from North Mackay: Nug Pratt,Marie Bragg,Val DePinto

Runners up: Deb Mackenzie, Lois Deguara, Isla Comelli, Joyce Bloomfield. Photos supplied

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Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results

Mackay Table Tennis Association had some incredible matches on Tuesday, August 19. Trent Day has had an exceptional year, improving every week and showing his talent by winning all of his matches. He went head-to-head with his grandad, Barry Patterson, in a family war that saw both play a blinding match, with Trent coming out victorious in the 5th set, 12–10.

Division 1 – Fish (Goncalo Serra, Steve Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Bears (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) 10-1 with Steve snuck home in a close 5 sets with Lily 11-8.

Birds (Trent Day, Emma Widdup, Anne Sheridan) defeated Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) in tight finish 6-5, as mentioned above about Trent and Barry’s match.

Division 2 – Tigers (Allan Edwards, Geoff Cowan, Allan Robins) defeated Cats (Duncan Treloar, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) 8-3 there were no 5 set matches but Duncan and Will beat The Allan’s 12-10 in 4th Set.

Cows (Geoff Deman, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) defeated Dogs (Janice Kent, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) 8-3, Ian beating Mark in close 5 sets, 11-7.

Horses (Donna Abbott, Syed Aminul Hossain, Ollie Hamelink) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Rymer Tabulo, Yilin Jiang) 6-5 with Yilin winning a great 5 sets against Donna, 11-9.

Division 3 – Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) 6-5 with Mark had close 4 sets with Noreen 11-8.

Stiga (Simon Hogan, Val Austin, Vincent Neuhauf) defeated Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDeKaa, Marie Taylor) 9-2, Val come back from 2 sets down against Craig to win 11-8 in 5th set.

Contributed by Andrea Nicholson

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Superstar Junior, Trent Day. Photo supplied

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Over thirty runners and supporters gathered for the Blacks Beach Bush Bash (BBBB), with competitors tackling the 5km and 10km courses in cool, ideal conditions. Thanks to timekeeper Rohan Miles and course setup team Andrew Short, Len Howarth, and David Isbister, the event ran smoothly – without even the usual “lost runner” hiccup.

President Paul Tilse thanked volunteers for their efforts and reminded members that there will be no Mackay Road Runners event on Father’s Day, Sunday 7th September. Instead, members are encouraged to join the 5km Parkrun at the Botanic Gardens on Saturday 6th September, where the Club is on the volunteer roster.

On the 10km course, ultramarathoner Mick Vivian claimed first place, followed by Jared Mackie, John Rae, Levi Wallace, Ashley Miles, Clinton Mackie, Michael Feenaghty, Jeremy Taylor, and Max Miles. Birthday girl Rhian Massey was the first female across the line, finishing tenth overall, with strong runs from Jose Short, Carmel Mahon, Gail Mackie, Tahnie Malagueno, Carolyn Mapes, Jo Hughes, and Judy Zahn. In the 5km, Roscoe McDonnell overcame a niggling injury to take the win ahead of David Isbister, Leanne Connor, Ross Connor, and Fran March.

This Sunday, the popular Shield’s Stampede will kick off at 4pm from 21 Karl Langer Crescent, Mt Pleasant, hosted by life members Merv and Wendy Shields. The 5km and 12km run includes post-race snacks, Father’s Day prize draws, and check-in by 3.50pm sharp.

Club Captain Jim Ford continues to offer free Wednesday track training at 5.30pm at the ARC, open to all with a $4 entry fee.

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Approximately thirty runners and supporters including Club Patron, Mr Col Meng (left) enjoyed the BBBB 5k and 10k  this morning

Michael Feenaghty (left), Jeremy Taylor (centre) and Darrin Pullen (right) battle it out before hitting the off road section in the 10km BBBB

Mick Vivian (right) is congratulated on his 1st placing in the 10km BBBB by Fran Marsh (left) and Jo Hughes (centre.

Roscoe McDonnell ran a sensational first place in the 5km BBBB. Photos and words supplied by Janelle Tilse

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BRIDGE

Another stellar week at the bridge table saw Debra and Eric Goodchild take out the B4 Red Points event. The final week of the Anne Hird Memorial Trophy for Novices wrapped up after three weeks of play, with three different winners, and a deserving champion in Sandy Patterson.

Sandy, a novice player, has steadily honed her skills, embraced new conventions, and expanded her bridge knowledge with dedication and determination. She perfectly reflects Anne Hird’s passion for supporting novice players and encouraging their growth in the game.

Anne’s husband, David, proudly presented the trophy to Sandy and her partners.

Weekly Results

Tuesday Evening 19 August 2025 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
3rd Patricia Garner / Sandra Morris 4th Mick King / John McGee

Wednesday 20 August 2025 – Anne Hird Memorial Trophy Week 3 of 3 Novice event 10 Table Mitchell
N/S E/W
1st Annette Howe / Frances Brown 1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Colleen Riddel
2nd David Hird / Terry Sheedy 2nd Alan Brown / Jewel Schmidt
3rd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Janet Hansen / Susan Ross
4th Susan Gibson / Sandra Morris 4th Anne Lutz / Diane Cox

Final Results – Anne Hird Memorial Trophy
1st Sandy Patterson 2nd Jewel Schmidt 3rd Andrew Canavan 4th Martin Pearce

Thursday Evening 21 August 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 2nd Geoff Taylor / Richard Wix

Friday 22 August 2025 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Richard Wix 2nd Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
3rd Ian Gaskell / Geoffrey Patterson 4th Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild

Saturday 23 August 2025 – B4 Week 2 of 2 - 8 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette 2nd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
3rd Frances Brown / Alan Brown 3rd Martin Pearce / Sandy Patterson
4th Geoff Taylor / Terry Sheedy 4th Jewel Schmidt / Annette Howe

Final Results of the B4 – Red Points
1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 2nd Terry Sheedy / Geoff Taylor
3rd Ian Gaskell / Errol Morris 4th Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Broek

Sunday 24 August 2025 Mentors and Novice –
N/S E/W
1st Christine Morrison / Rodney Miles 1st Debra Goodchild / Annette Howe
2nd Geoff Taylor / Andrew Canavan 2nd Susan Gibson / Jan Harris
3rd Joyce Deguara / Janice Mansfield 3rd Diane Stokes / Jayne Johnston

Contributed by Joy Block

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SWIMMING

Four rising talents from Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club have made waves on the national stage, earning recognition both in and out of the pool.

Dakota Daniel, Ava Kearns, Isabelle Daniel, and Montana Townley recently returned from the 2025 State Short Course Championships with impressive results, while a fellow Cyclone Anisa Helou has been named as one of just 18 recipients of the prestigious Hancock Prospecting Patron Scholarship.

The scholarship program, awarded to swimmers aged 13–18, provides financial and developmental support to assist with training and competition. Helou will now be part of the Olympic Pathway, representing North Queensland alongside Townsville’s Coby McCloskey.

On the competition front, Dakota collected a series of top-ten finishes, including bronze in the 200m freestyle, fourth in both the 200m butterfly and 400m freestyle, fifth in the 400m individual medley, seventh in the 100m freestyle and 200m IM, and ninth in the 100m butterfly.

Ava placed inside the top ten in three events – 10th in both the 100m butterfly and 100m IM, and ninth in the 200m IM – while Isabelle claimed ninth in the 100m backstroke.

Montana also impressed, achieving personal best times in seven of her eight events, alongside 11-year-old Isabelle Daniel, who competed in her very first SC championships.

The club also acknowledges all the efforts of Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier who guides all the swimmers through their preparation and competition schedule.

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SOFTBALL

With just one or two weeks remaining in the season, teams are preparing for finals, with the grand final set for 13th September. The B Ladies will kick off their finals campaign next weekend on 30th August.

Another tied game for the U14 teams ended in a 6-all draw between Dragons Get the Power and Angels North Jacklin Chaos. The young players have made remarkable progress since the start of the season. Dragons’ Connor Doolan got on base twice and scored each time, while Boyd Baxter took a catch and recorded 5 strikeouts while pitching. For Chaos, Ashlyn Ireland led at bat with two walks, pitched 3 strikeouts, and took a catch. Maycee Dolgner also contributed with two walks to cross home plate, while Jarvis Locher scored a home run on errors.

Golden Oldies 9, Dragon Slayers 4

Tanya Baker and Antoinette James each took a catch for the Oldies, while Tabitha Dickson recorded six assisted outs at first base. Donna Reid, Alison Poyner, and Antoinette James excelled at bat, advancing runners every time. For the Dragons, Audra Worth had a strong performance both at bat and in the field with seven assisted outs. Eli Oldham and Erin Boulding also delivered big hits to the outfield to score runs.

Dragons Devils 11, Angels Custom 4

Dane Snell and Ryan Ritcher each hit a home run for the Devils. Snell also took two catches, while Flynn Ritchie contributed seven assisted outs at first base to keep the Custom score down. Custom’s Matt Ramsamy and Elijah Gibbs took catches, with Matt assisting on four outs. Ben O’Brien had two solid hits to the outfield, while Darren Frew and Gary Cunningham worked the bases with timely walks.

Pink Hawks 23, Storm 7

Kym Lock, Judy Kimlin, and Michelle Scott helped their team on base with walks and solid hits. Scott and Tracey McCauley each took a catch for Storm. Katrina Whittaker had four strong centre outfield hits, crossing home each time, with Julie Hankin adding three more outfield hits. Bec Flynn contributed with two catches and four assisted outs to secure the win.

Evie Grace is currently representing U16 Australia on the development tour in Tokyo, returning just in time for finals and the grand final. She will also compete in the U18 State Championship in Cairns from 20th to 22nd September, alongside Miley Barrow and Tiffany Martin.

The U18 boys will travel to Rockhampton for championships in combination with Hervey Bay from 20th to 22nd September. B Ladies finals begin Saturday 30th August, Joe Ball and Rookieball grand finals on 6th September, and all other grand finals on 13th September.

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

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Softball finals kick off soon, with the grand final on 13th September and standout players like Evie Grace returning from international duty. Photos supplied

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CRICKET

As international cricket prepares to tee off in Mackay, local U20 cricketers are sharpening their skills and soaking up the excitement.

Marcus Sammut, aged 17, reflected on the upcoming Australia vs South Africa matches, saying, “It’s really good—especially for a regional area. This hasn’t happened in Mackay before, which is awesome.”

He added, “It’s inspiring to see how hard Mackay players train. We’ve got great facilities here, and hosting games like Australia vs South Africa really shows that.”

Jack Law, aged 16, is equally motivated.

On his ambitions, he said, “I definitely hope to play internationally. I’ll keep working hard to make it to the Australian team… it would be amazing.”

When asked about playing locally, he said, “It’s great to spend a few hours with your mates on the weekend… the facilities are really good and always well maintained.”

Offering advice to other young players, Jack said, “Just come along and make as many friends as possible. Cricket is a team sport, so getting to know people is important.”

Both Jack and Marcus are taking part in pre-season training at the Great Barrier Reef Arena, refining techniques and preparing for the next level.

One of the four academy coaches, Chris Nemitz, said, “We saw a gap between the senior players and the junior competition, so we wanted to create something to keep the kids in the game during the off-season.

“These young men and women are very talented, and the more they play, the better they'll become.”

On the impact of international cricket visiting the region, he added, “There's nothing like seeing live cricket.

“Watching international players here shows the skill and effort required to reach that level – the things you just don’t see on TV.

“It’s an amazing opportunity for the kids and young adults to learn and be inspired.”

Female cricketer Kiana Dunn, one of the few girls’ in the academy, is making the most of the experience.

“It's just fun. I love fielding, batting, bowling—it's great to be with friends doing something we all love.”

Her advice to other young players is to, “Just have fun, enjoy it, and play as long as you can.”

“The international games will be really good—getting to see all the experienced players, talking to them about how they got there, what they did, and how we can learn from them. And of course, just watching some really good cricket,” she said.

With world-class cricket taking place on local grounds, the next generation of international stars could very well be nurtured right here in our own region, turning opportunity into reality on Mackay’s pitches.

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Mackay’s U20 cricketers are sharpening their skills, with local grounds shaping the next generation of international stars. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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BMX

Mackay riders were in fine form at last weekend’s R7 & R8 of the Queensland State Series, held at the Cairns BMX Club. Competitors from across the region tested their speed and skill on the challenging track, with Mackay’s young riders producing some standout performances and claiming multiple top finishes.

Round 8 Results:

11 Girls

1. Lilly Bolger – F16:8 1st | 118:6 1st | 73:3 1st | 28:1 1st

12 Girls

1. Ruby Soke – F17:4 1st | 119:8 1st | 74:5 2nd | 29:1 1st

13 Boys

1. Max Ransome – F7:1 1st | 108:4 1st | 62:3 1st | 18:6 1st

14 Girls (Merged)

1. Willow Pogmore – F18:1 1st | 120:2 1st | 75:8 1st | 30:7 2nd

45-49 Men (40-44 Men)

1. Michael Jameljanenko – F13:2 1st | 115:8 1st | 70:7 1st | 25:1 1st

Cruiser 11-12 Boys

1. Liam Wilson – F27:1 3rd | 130:8 1st | 85:4 1st | 40:5 1st

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Mackay riders delivered a string of top finishes at last weekend’s R7 & R8 Queensland State Series in Cairns, showcasing speed, skill, and standout performances across multiple age groups. Photo source: Mackay and District BMX Club Inc (Facebook)

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Mackay Table Tennis Match Results – 12th August 2025

Tuesday Morning Fixtures

Division 1 – Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan) defeated Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) 8-4. Kevin had a massive day with three 5 setters and saved the best for last coming back from 2 sets down to take the win over Branko 11-7.

Tigers Paws (Allan Robins, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) defeated Shark Attack (Doug Dungavell, Peter Goodson, Marie Taylor) 8-4 with Bryan winning in 5 sets over Marie 11-6.

Lion Kings (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher) had a draw with Wolf Pack (Pam Joyce, Steve Mathieson, Virginia Clayton) 6-6. Steve won massive 5 set match against Veronica 11-9

Division 2 – Python Spin (Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell, Kim Daffy) drew with Panther Pace (John Pratt, Pam Keune, Gerry Synnott) 6-6 with Robyn and Pam having a tuff battle Robyn winning 11-9 in 5th Set.
Rhino Charge (Daryl Ross, Kim Challendar, Josie Davis) defeated Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, John Hamelink) 9-3. Ken won great battle against Kim 12-10 in 5th Set.

Division 3 – Captin Spins (Sharon Muller, Glenda Dutton, Allison Day) defeated Spider Smashers (Laurie Bradshaw, Madge Saunders, Myles Dutton) 8-4 with Myles winning the family battle against Glenda 13-11 in 5th Set.
Bat Serves (Peter Taber, Glenda Brookes) defeated Iron Rallies (Ron Johr, Trish Zamparutti) 5-4 with no 5 set matches but Trish winning over Glenda 11-6 in 4th Set.

Tuesday Night Fixtures

Division 1 – Bears (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) defeated Ants (Barry Patterson, Robbie Richards, Vince Boeske) 7 to 4 with Josh defeating Barry 13-11 in the 5th Set
Fish (Mick Ruhl, Geoff Denman) defeated Birds (Anne Sheridan, Trent Day) 6-3, Mick and Geoff come back from 2 sets down to win 11-6 in the 5th Set.

Division 2 – Cats (Duncan Treloar, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Yilin Jiang, Josie Davis) 8-3. Yilin won a massive 5th Set against Will 11-9.

Horses (Ollie Hamelink, Syed Aminul Hossain, Donna Abbott) defeated Dogs (Janice Kent, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) 6-5 with Syed winning Mark 11-7

Tigers (Geoff Cowan, Allan Edwards, Allan Robins) defeated Cows (Graeme Walker, Ian McKay, Steve Mathieson) 7-4 with (Daryl Ross, Vincent Neuhauf, Val Austin) defeated Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Melanie Theodore, Samuel Whelan) 7-4. Samuel won in 4 sets over Daryl to win 11-9.

Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) defeated Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDeKaa, Rod Hamelink) 9-2 with Liz winning tight 5 set match against Craig 12-10.

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Mackay athletics club continues to celebrate the dedication and progress of its athletes as they strive for excellence on the track. Each week, athletes are recognised for achieving personal bests (PBs), with special awards presented for every 10 PBs reached.

On the 10th of August, club Vice President and Athlete Experience Officer Tammy Meyer proudly presented the latest batch of PB milestone awards.

Congratulates to Blake, Dharman, Sharity, Quinn, Matilda and Marlee for their outstanding efforts.

The club wishes all athletes continued success in their training and competitions.

Results:

10 PBs - Blake
20 PBs - Dharman, Sharity
30 PBs - Quinn, Matilda, Marlee

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At Mackay Contract Bridge Club

Well done to the Mackay Team who travelled to the Moreton-Bribie Teams and Pairs 2025 Congress. In an outstanding field of players, Diane Morgan, Janet Hansen, Francie Brown and Alan Brown won the Open Teams event. The second week of the Anne Hird Trophy was played on Wednesday with Andrew Canavan currently leading the coveted event.

Weekly Results

Monday 11 August 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
3rd Barbara Tait / Josie Crowley 3rd Andrew Canavan / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Edward Kleise / Diane Stokes 4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson

Tuesday Evening 12 August 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 2nd Janine Rodgers / Andrew Canavan
3rd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 4th Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

Wednesday 13 August 2025 – Anne Hird Memorial Trophy Week 2 of 3 Novice event
N/S E/W
1st Jayne Johnson / Geoff Taylor 1st Andrew Canavan / Geoffrey Patterson
2nd Jewel Schimdt / Janet Hansen 2nd Joy Hold / Terry Sheedy
3rd Martin Pearce / Joy Robinson 3rd Colleen Riddel / Gwen Liddell
4th Sandy Patterson / Debra Goodchild 4th Susan Gibson / Jan Harris

Thursday Evening 14 August 2025 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 2nd Martin Pearce / Terry Sheedy
3rd Geoff Taylor / Christopher Meyers 4th Jan Harris / Patricia Garner

Friday 15 August 2025 – Week 16 of 25 NWP 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson 1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 2nd Roland Taylor / Lynne O’Neill
3rd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen
4th Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell 4th Alan Brown / Frances Brown
5th Ming Ting / David Ting 5th Jewel Schmidt / Annette Howe

Saturday 16 August – B4 Week 1 of 2 - 11 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 1st Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell
2nd Geoff Taylor / Terry Sheedy 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Janine Rodgers / Jan Harris
4th Susan Ross / Geoff Cowan 4th Patricia Garner / Geoffrey Patterson
5th Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft 5th Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

Contributed by Joy Block

Alan Brown, Diane Morgan, Janet Hansen, Pres.Robert and Frances Brown

Andrew Canavan and Joy Robinson. Photos supplied

Mackay’s rising cycling stars have made their mark on the state stage, bringing home an impressive haul of titles and podium finishes at the AusCycling Queensland 2025 Gravel State Championships in Rockhampton on Saturday, 9 August, and the Cyclocross State Championships the following day.

Heavy rain in the lead-up to the gravel event made for a muddy, unpredictable course, but Mackay’s juniors thrived in the challenging conditions.

In the Gravel State Championships, Max Teague was crowned Queensland State Champion in the U15 Boys, while Oaklan Marwood took the U13 Boys title. Scott Bennett claimed second place in the same category. Mackay’s seniors also shone, with Kyle Marwood taking first place in the Masters 2 Men, securing another state title. Strong rides came from Lee Taylor (5th, Masters 4 Men), Geoff Bennett (6th), Noel Garciano (7th), and Zac Schwarzrock, who impressed early in the Elite Men’s race before an unfortunate DNF.

On Sunday, the Cyclocross State Championships saw Mackay’s juniors continue their dominance. Max Teague secured his second state title of the weekend in the U15 Boys with a commanding win, finishing two-and-a-half minutes clear. Scott Bennett took second after an exciting sprint finish against the series leader. In the Elite Men’s race, Zac Schwarzrock placed third, completing seven gruelling laps against Queensland’s best.

“Seeing our juniors step up and win state titles in such tough conditions is huge for the future of Mackay cycling,” said Mackay Cycling Track Coordinator Kyle Marwood.

“These results show the depth of talent we have coming through, and the weekend’s success is a credit to every rider who lined up.”

With three junior state titles, elite podiums, and strong results across the board, Mackay’s riders proved they can handle everything from sticky gravel climbs to slick cyclocross corners.

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The 2025 Mackay Wanderers Junior Football Carnival was a standout weekend for grassroots sport, featuring a record-breaking 130 teams from across Central Queensland. The carnival’s scale and success brought thousands of visitors to the region, creating an electric atmosphere on and off the field.

Mayor Greg Williamson congratulated the organisers, volunteers, and families who made the event possible.

He said, “It was the biggest event to date, bringing thousands of visitors to our region and creating an incredible atmosphere on and off the field.”

He also highlighted the economic benefits, adding, “Events like this not only showcase our local talent but also deliver a fantastic economic boost to the region.

"Well done to everyone involved – Mackay should be proud.”

Greg Kliese, president and lifelong member of Mackay Wanderers Football Club, described the carnival as one of the happiest and friendliest clubs he's been involved in.

With over 45 years of coaching experience, he emphasised the wider benefits for young players.

“They get to learn discipline, work for one another, and gain valuable skills - especially creativity.

"it's overall just a great atmosphere."

Carnival coordinator Melinda Studt praised the strong community spirit throughout the weekend.

“The kids were just so busy with their teams having fun… if the kids weren’t busy playing their game, they were either at the canteen or in the drill zone space learning tricks from senior players.”

“We had a great turn out with the girls this year too, so next year we absolutely want to boost that aspect and build a stronger competition for the girls.”

Both Melinda and Greg expressed gratitude to Football Queensland for their support, with Greg saying, “Football Queensland really got amongst it and helped with the draw and scoring.”

On behalf of the club, Melinda, Greg, and Football Queensland thanked players, coaches, referees, families, volunteers, and sponsors for their invaluable support, with the team now looking forward to an even bigger carnival in 2026.

2025 Carnival Winners:

• U15/16: Magpies Mackay Football Club Black
• U14: Striker Biloela
• U13: Emerald Eagles Football Club
• U12: Airlie Beach Black
• U11: Mackay Lions Black
• U10: Magpies Mackay Football Club Silver

Special recognition was also awarded to Country United Football Club Inc as the Fair Play Club of the Carnival.

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The 2025 Mackay Wanderers Junior Football Carnival set a record with 130 teams, celebrating community spirit, youth development, and growing girls’ participation. Photo credit: Amanda Blines

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The Mackay community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 18-year-old Andrew Lelliott, who tragically lost his life in a single-vehicle crash near Moranbah on Thursday, August 8.

Andrew was travelling as a passenger in a silver Toyota Hilux when the vehicle left the roadway and collided with a power pole on the Peak Downs Highway. Despite the efforts of emergency services, Andrew, from Balberra, was declared deceased at the scene. The driver, an 18-year-old Beaconsfield man, sustained minor injuries and was taken to Moranbah Hospital.

Andrew’s passing has sent ripples of grief through Mackay and beyond, a loss felt not only by his family and friends but by the region’s sporting community, particularly within Mackay Basketball, where Andrew’s talent, generosity, and character left a lasting mark.

From the Under-12s through to the Under-18s, Andrew proudly represented Mackay on the basketball court. Known for his natural ability and trademark flair for passing, he was the kind of player who made those around him better. Spectators recall the joy of watching him in action — unselfish in play, sharp in vision, and always with a grin that spoke to his love of the game.

Beyond his years as a player, Andrew continued to contribute to the sport he loved by serving as a referee, earning respect for his fairness, professionalism, and easy rapport with players and officials alike.

“Andrew leaves behind a lasting legacy in the Mackay community through his friendship, loyalty, sportsmanship, and generous smile,” Mackay Basketball said in a statement.

A memorial service to honour Andrew’s life will be held at 4:00pm on Friday, August 15, at McDonald’s Mackay Multisport Stadium. The community is invited to attend and celebrate the vibrant, joyful, and kind-hearted young man whose presence enriched so many lives.

In keeping with Andrew’s colourful spirit, his family has requested guests wear bright colours – pinks, blues, whites, and yellows – to reflect the vibrancy he brought to every game, conversation, and moment. Past teammates are encouraged to bring a pair of basketball shoes to be placed at centre court as a powerful tribute to the game and friendships that bound Andrew to the Mackay sporting community.

A GoFundMe has been established to assist Andrew’s mother, Loma, and their family during this unimaginably difficult time. The funds will help cover funeral costs, counselling, and living expenses, easing the burden so the family can focus on grieving and healing.

The loss of a young life with such promise is a tragedy no community ever wishes to face. Yet, in the midst of this sorrow, the Mackay community is rallying, in stadiums, in homes, and in many hearts, to remember Andrew not for the way he was taken, but for the joy, kindness, and passion he gave so freely.

Donations can be made via GoFundMe at: https://gofund.me/9d6aff3b

Mackay Life extends our deepest condolences to the friends and families affected.

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The Mackay community is mourning the loss of 18-year-old basketballer Andrew Lelliott, remembered for his talent, kindness, and vibrant spirit, after he tragically died in a crash near Moranbah. Photo source: Mackay Basketball

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TABLE TENNIS

Season 3 Morning Fixtures – Results 2 – 29th August 2025

Division 1 - Tiger Paws (Allan Robins, Bryan Marshall, Ross DeBoer) tied 6-6 against Wolf Pack (Andrea Nicholson, Pam Joyce, Helen Ware)
Shark Attack (Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson, Marie Taylor) drew 6-6 Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, George Camilleri, Kevin Abbott)
Lions King (Don Boettcher, Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd) defeated 8-4 Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan)

Division 2 – Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, Ian Dodds, John Hamelink) defeated 7-5 Panther Pace (Gerry Synnott, Frank Caruana, Gloria Vella)
Python Spin (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell) defeated 9-3 Rhino Charge (Pam Kuene, Josie Davis, Kim Challender)

Division 3 – Captin Spins (Glenda Dutton, Sharon Muller, Allison Day) defeated 10-2 over Iron Rallies (Ron Johr, Trisha Zamparutti, Carmel Cristaldi)
Bat Serves (Cheryl Pearson, Kaz Chester, Glenda Brookes) defeated 7-5 Spider Smashes (Myles Dutton, Madge Saunders, Laurie Bradshaw)

**Season 3 Evening Fixtures - Result Week 2 **

Division 1 – Fish (Steve Whiting & Jocob Whelan) defeated Bears (Josh Brown & Lee Brake) 5-0. Jacob winning in 5 over Josh (11-6)
Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) defeated Birds (Anne Sheridan, Trent Day) 9-2. Robbie won in 5th set against Trent (11-7)

Division 2 – Cats (Duncan Treloar, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) defeated Cows (Ian McKay, Janice Kent, George Camilleri) 8-3. Janice winning a massive 5 set match over Duncan (11-9)
Dogs (Ivan Perkins, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Yilin Jiang) 8-3. Andrea won in 5th set over Ivan (11-3)
Tigers (Allan Edwards, Allan Robins, Geoff Cowan) defeated Horses (Syed Aminul Hossain, Donna Abbott, Ollie Hamelink) 9-2. Syed winning in 5 games over Allan R (11-7)

Division 3 – Stiga (Simon Hogan, Vincent Neuhauf, Val Austin) defeated Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDeKaa, Rod Hamelink) 8-3. Val won over Craig in 5th set (11-5)
Nittaku (Melanie Theodore, Noreen Frederickson, Samual Whelan) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) 6-5. Noreen winning in 5 against Mark (12-10)

Season 3 Morning Fixtures – Results Week 3 – 5th August 2025

Division 1 – Shark Attack (Doug Dungavell, Peter Goodson, Marie Taylor) drew 6-6 against Lions King (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher)
Tiger Paws (Allan Robins, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) defeated 7-5 Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, John McGee, Kevin Abbott)
Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan) defeated 7-5 Wolf Pack (Pam Joyce, Steve Mathieson, Virginia Clayton)

Division 2 – Flacon Flyers (Ken Best, Ian Dodds, John Hamelink) defeated 9-3 over Python Spins (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell)
Panther Pace (Gerry Synnott, Frank Caruana, Helen Ware) defeated 8-4 Rhino Charge (Iris Grasso, Kim Challender, Josie Davis)

Division 3 – Iron Rallies (Pam Keune, Thelma Caruana) defeated 6-4 Spider Smashes (Laurie Bradshaw, Madge Saunders)
Captin Spins (Sharon Muller, Peter Taber) defeated 7-5 Bat Serves (Glenda Brookes, Cheryl Pearson, Kaz Chester)

Season 3 Evening Fixtures - Results Week 3

Division 1 – Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) defeated Fish (Goncalo Serra, Steve Whiting) 6-5. Vince won in 4 sets over Steve (11-5)
Bears (Lily Boland, Lee Brake, Josh Brown) had a massive win over Birds (Janice Kent, Anne Sheridan, Trent Day) 10-1. Lily won over Janice in 5 sets (12-10)

Division 2 – Cats (Graham Brake, Duncan Treloar, Will VanDeKaa) defeated Horses (Syed Aminul Hossain, Donna Abbott) 7-4. Will/Duncan won great 5 setter against Syed/Donna (11-9)
Tigers (Allan Edwards, Allan Robins, Geoff Cowan) defeated Dogs (Mark Sleeman, George Camilleri, Peter Goodson) 9-2. Mark winning tight 5 sets over Geoff (11-9)
Cows (Graeme Walker, Ian McKay, Steve Mathieson) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Yilin Jiang) 7-4. Graeme winning over Yilin (11-8) in 5th game

Division 3 – Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) defeated Stiga (Vincent Neuhauf, Val Austin) 7- 4. Vincent won in 5 sets against Mark (11-7)
Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan, Melanie Theodore) defeated Tibhar (Craig VanDeKaa, Marie
Taylor, Rod Hamelink) 8-3. Rod won in 5th set over Melanie (11-8)

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Mackay table tennis teams battled through close matches and big wins in Season 3 morning and evening fixtures. Photo source: Mackay Table Tennis Association

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With more than fifty runners taking part in the annual North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) Open and Podiatry Mackay Junior Magic Mile, the competition was fierce from the starter’s gun.

The Podiatry Mackay Junior Club Championship was held ahead of the NQBP Open Club Championship in breezy but sunny and cool conditions on the scenic Mackay Marina Breakwater. NQBP once again played a pivotal role in the event, closing the breakwater to vehicle traffic for one hour during racing and sponsoring the Open male and female podium winners. Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr maintained his generous support for junior runners, offering cash prizes to the under 13 and under 18 male and female podium placegetters for the second time in recent weeks.

The 1,600-metre out-and-back course made for a fast, tightly contested race. Mackay Road Runners Club President, Paul Tilse, expressed gratitude to both NQBP and Podiatry Mackay, noting that Donald Orr was unable to attend the event in person. Despite the depth of talent, the Magic Mile race records set by past champions Charlie Martel (4:22) and Benita Willis (4:54) remain unbroken.

The under 13 female category produced an impressive result, with Ayla Moon and Shailee Mewha taking first and second overall across the line, followed by the first under 13 male, Sonny Moon. Under 13 male Hughie Bishop clocked a strong 7:07, just 12 seconds behind his older sister, Millie Bishop, who claimed gold in the under 18 female event. Keira Caban took silver in the under 18 female category and was awarded the coveted Magic Mile Milo Award for her inspirational performance.

In the under 18 male division, Max Miles claimed gold in a standout effort, backing up from a personal best in the Townsville half marathon (21.1km) the previous weekend. Oscar Hayles secured bronze after a determined sprint finish. Other strong performances came from Isabelle Hayles, Jackson Symonds, Ava Miles, and Taahleah Caban, who placed third in the under 13 female category.

NQBP Senior Advisor Community Relationships, Emilie Power, presented prizes for the NQBP Open event. Jared Mackie claimed gold in 4:56, the only runner to break the five-minute barrier. Ten seconds later, Hamish Donnollan edged out Jonathan Davies by just half a second for silver, with Ryan Gibbs finishing a further second behind in fourth. First female and fifth overall, Skye Perkins, clocked 5:25 in a superb run, followed by Alana Knezevic (5:33) and Emily Hayles (6:49). Mackay Road Runners members were also competing for open and age category club championship points.

Thanks were extended to NQBP, Podiatry Mackay, and the dedicated club volunteers — Rohan Miles, Julie Whibley, Jo Hughes, Andrew Short, Tim Magoffin, Brendan Bishop, Len Howarth, Ross Connor, and Alan Zamparutti — for their invaluable contributions.

The Mackay Road Runners’ racing calendar continues next week with the Tri-Activ8-sponsored event from Bonson’s Scrub Road at The Leap, starting at 7am. The 6km and 12km courses will feature challenging undulations along Ian Reddacliffe Drive. Tri-Activ8’s Nikki Giles has been a long-time supporter of the club and broader community.

Meanwhile, Club Captain and Life Member Jim Ford continues to run his popular weekly track training sessions at the ARC (Aquatic & Recreational Complex) in Ooralea each Wednesday at 5.30pm. The sessions are free, with a $4 track access fee payable at the pool kiosk. Athletes of all levels are welcome — no membership or RSVP required.

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Podiatry Mackay Junior Magic Mile competitors are off and racing at the Mackay Marina Breakwater.
North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) Open Magic Mile bolt from the s starters gun.
NQBP Senior Advisor Community Relationship’s Emilie Power presents the coveted Magic Mile Milo Award to Keira Caban for her inspiring performance.
Under 13 female podium winners Shailee Mewha (2nd); Ayla Moon (1st); Tahleah Caban accept Podiatry Mackay cash prizes from Emilie Power (NQBP).
Under 13 male podium winners Sonny Moon (1st); Hugh Bishop (2nd) ; Oscar Hayles (3rd) accept Podiatry Mackay cash prizes from Emilie Power (NQBP).
Under 18 female podium winners Millie Bishop (1st) and Keira Caban (2nd) accept Podiatry Mackay cash prizes from Emilie Power (NQBP).
Under 18 male gold medal winner Max Miles accepts Podiatry Mackay cash prize from Emilie Power (NQBP).
NQBP’s Emilie Power presents the NQBP prizes for podium winners, Emily Hayles (3rd); Skye Perkins with son Finn (1st) and Alana Knezevic (2nd).
NQBP’s Emilie Power presents the NQBP prizes for podium winners, Hamish Donnollan (2nd), Johnathan Davies (3rd) and Jared Mackie (1st). Photos supplied

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Mackay Junior Rugby Union is set to launch its 2025 season in style, with a community sign-on day and first training session scheduled for Sunday, August 17, from 2pm to 4pm at Quarry Hill, North Mackay.

The club, which continues to grow under the leadership of its dedicated president, is opening its doors to players of all experience levels, from absolute beginners to seasoned juniors. Training will be held Friday nights, with Sunday games and a full calendar of carnivals in Emerald, Airlie Beach, Moranbah, and Mackay.

This year sees the introduction of two exciting development programs: ‘Get into Rugby’, a fun, skill-based initiative for children aged 4–7, and ‘Girls Can Tackle Anything’, a dedicated program for girls aged 6–12 aimed at boosting female participation in the sport.

Adding to the excitement, Mackay Junior Rugby Union has been invited to send a group of players to walk onto the field before the Wallabies game in Townsville this September, calling for an unforgettable experience for the young athletes.

The 2024 season was one to remember, with the club’s Under-12s and Under-10s teams either winning or placing second in every carnival they entered. The talent pipeline is also strong, with two standout players from last year’s U12s recently selected for the prestigious Queensland Country Rugby Union Team.

The sign-on day offers the perfect opportunity for families to meet coaches, learn about the season ahead, and get a feel for the club’s supportive, community-focused environment. With rugby offering not just physical benefits but also teamwork, resilience, and friendships that last a lifetime, Mackay Junior Rugby Union is eager to welcome the next wave of players.

Parents and players are encouraged to head to Quarry Hill on August 17 to be part of a club that’s kicking goals both on and off the field.

For more information, contact Mackay Junior Rugby Union or visit their Facebook page.

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Mackay Junior Rugby Union launches its 2025 season with a sign-on day on August 17, featuring new youth programs and celebrating recent successes. Photo source: Mackay District Junior Rugby Union

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The first week of the Anne Hird Memorial Trophy was played on Wednesday for novices (under 100 mps), who play with three different experienced players over three weeks. The trophy is in memory of Anne Hird and Beanies for Brain Cancer. Anne was a supporter of encouraging new players, who can only win the trophy once. This is a high honour for all beginners.

Weekly Results

Monday 4 August 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 2nd Geoff Taylor / Richard Wix
3rd Edward Kleise / Diane Stokes 3rd Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane
4th David Ting / Eric Goodchild 4th Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers

Tuesday Evening 5 August 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner 2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
3rd Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris 4th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

Wednesday 6 August 2025 – Anne Hird Memorial Trophy Week 1 of 3 Novice event
N/S E/W
1st Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild 1st Geoffrey Patterson / Geoff Cowan
2nd Andrew Canavan / David Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schimdt
3rd Joy Block / Diane Stokes 3rd Jan Harris / Mary Rose Ramsden
4th Martin Pearce / Sandra Morris 4th Ming Ting / Patricia Wong

Thursday Evening 7 August 2025 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 2nd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan
3rd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott 4th Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 8 August 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild 1st Geoff Cowan / Mick King
2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 3rd Victor Mason / Josie Crowley

Saturday 9 August – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Sandy Patterson / Joy Robinson 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill 2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Ian Gaskell
3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice 3rd Adrian Westcott / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy 4th Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

Contributeed by Joy Block

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Leaders in the Anne Hird Memorial after Week 1. (L to R) Geoff Gowan, Sandy Patterson, Geoffrey Patterson and Eric Goodchild. Photo supplied

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It was a workout with heart and purpose as Mackay locals hit the ground jumping last Saturday for the annual Harpertastic 1km Travel Burpees challenge. The high-energy fundraiser raised $3,180 for Jeans for Genes Australia, supporting vital research into childhood cancers and genetic disorders.

A total of 139 participants took part in the physically gruelling event, which required individuals or teams to complete a full kilometre of travel burpees. Four participants completed the entire distance solo, one burpee at a time, while 17 local businesses were represented on the course.

The event was once again powered by the passion of organisers Amy and Harper, with widespread support from the Mackay fitness and business community.

“To all the businesses that donated prizes, thank you,” the organisers said, acknowledging contributions from Mass Nutrition Mackay, Base Performance & Recovery, The Dispensary Mackay, LSKD, Scents of Empowerment – Leonie Featherstone’s Essential Oils, and NFE Running.

Event support came from across the region, including Rob Kidd, 7NEWS Mackay, Hansen MEDIA, She Fitness, Denzel Bobongie Visuals & Bandy Bongo Photography, and Carolyn Smithson – On the Move Photography.

“The love and laughter on the course was incredible. All there for the right reasons and showing all children battling that they aren't alone. Now we plan for 2026!” said a representative from NRG Plus Personal Training.

With 1 in 20 Australian children born with a genetic condition or birth defect (equivalent to one child in every classroom), fundraising efforts like this are more than just symbolic. They are essential.

To support the cause, visit the Harpertastic Jeans for Genes fundraising page. Every dollar brings researchers one step closer to breakthroughs, and gives hope to families who need it most.

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Mackay locals raised $3,180 for children’s medical research during the Harpertastic 1km Travel Burpees challenge last Saturday, with 139 participants jumping into action for a vital cause. Photo credit: Rob Kidd

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North Mackay Ladies Crowned Runners-Up

North Mackay ladies played in the District Final of the Championship of Championship Fours against the ladies team from Airlie Beach . The game was held at Northern Beaches Bowls Club on Saturday 2nd of August.

The Mackay Ladies played a valiant game but the Airlie ladies ran out winners in the end. Congratulations go to Donna Gordon (lead) Coral Francis(second), Deb Mackenzie (third), and Lorna Bowers (skip).

Well done and your efforts are appreciated by your club and our members.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Runners up (L) Donna Gordon,  Coral Francis , Lorna Bowers, Deb Mackenzie. photo supplied

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Mackay's finest veterans took Brisbane by storm at the Queensland Veterans Table Tennis Championships, held at the Southpine Sports Complex from the 16th to the 19th of July.

Over four fiercely competitive days, our talented team of nine players proudly flew the Mackay flag and delivered brilliant performances across a range of age divisions. Congratulations and thanks to Vince Boeske, Anne Sheridan, Allan Edwards, Janice Kent, Donna Abbott, Daniel Warfield, Andrea Nicholson, and Noreen Frederickson for representing our region with such heart and determination.

A huge round of applause goes to Anne Sheridan, who was named President's Shield Women’s Player of the Tournament. Anne stunned the field with a string of spectacular wins, including triumphs over several seeded players, and finished third in the Order of Merit – an incredible achievement on such a big stage.

Anne also teamed up with Janice Kent to claim bronze in both the Over 60 Ladies Teams and Over 60 Ladies Doubles. Janice went on to earn silver in the Over 65 Mixed Doubles, pairing with Paul Green, while Donna Abbott and Marianne Orman (Townsville) battled hard to bring home bronze in the Over 60 Ladies Doubles.

Mackay was well represented in the prestigious Order of Merit, with several of our players punching well above their weight:
• Anne Sheridan – 3rd (Over 60 Ladies)
• Andrea Nicholson – 6th (Over 40 Ladies)
• Janice Kent – 8th (Over 60 Ladies)
• Donna Abbott – 10th (Over 60 Ladies)

This year’s Queensland Veterans Championships saw Mackay’s veterans dominate the court, showcasing not only skill and teamwork, but also a true passion for the sport. Well done to all players!

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Graham Walker, Allan Edwards, Daniel Warfield, Vince Boeske, Andrea Nicholson, Noreen Frederickson, Donna Abbott, Janice Kent and Anne Sheridan. Photos Supplied
Donna Abbott, Anne Sheridan and Janice Kent

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RUNNING

A dedicated group of Mackay Road Runners took part in the weekly social Bluewater Quay run under ideal conditions — cool, breezy, and sunny — while many others travelled north to Townsville for the annual McDonald's Running Festival. Events ranged from marathon and half marathon to 10km, 5km, 2.5km, and team races.

Race Director Andrew Short missed his usual local duties to compete in the Townsville Half Marathon, finishing in a solid 2:02, while his wife Jose claimed family bragging rights with an impressive 1:48. Local standout Skye Perkins took second place in the half marathon, finishing in a blistering 1:24. Other strong performances came from Rebecca Baird (1:59), Julia Monckton (1:50), Hamish Donnollan (1:32), Luke Leven (1:35), Max Miles (1:44), and Aidan Donnollan (2:01).

In the full marathon, Mick Vivian capped off a strong season with a 3rd-place finish in 2:53. Paul MacKenzie came 12th in 3:07, followed by Chris Brodie (3:14), Shane Donnollan (3:30), and James Wortley (4:02).

Locally, the BMA CQ Rescue 5km and 10km Fun Run showcased more Mackay Road Runners talent. Lily Leven won the 5km in 22:36, and Alana Knezevic blitzed the 10km female field in 39:43 — both backing up from recent Queen of the Mountain wins. Notable 5km efforts included Jo Hughes (1st in age category), Kayla Waugh, Greg Dawes, and Carole Dawes. In the men’s 10km, Jared Mackie led the pack in 37:26 ahead of around 300 runners.

Next up is the club’s Signature and Championship event on Sunday 10 August — the North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) Open Magic Mile and Podiatry Mackay Junior U13/U18 Magic Mile, kicking off at 7am from the Breakwater entrance at Mackay Marina. Thanks to NQBP, Breakwater Road will be closed to the public for one hour during the event.

Juniors will race first, followed by the Open division. The fast, flat 1-mile course heads out 800 metres along the Breakwater before turning for a high-speed sprint to the finish. Long-time supporter Donald Orr and NQBP’s ongoing sponsorship continue to foster community and athletic spirit.

Online registrations are now open and will close at 6pm Friday 8 August. Everyone’s welcome — no membership required!

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Darrin Pullen (2nd right) leads out in the Bluewater Quay 5k and 10k social
Len Howarth ran well in the 5km Bluewater Quay social event after his 10km run at the BMA CQ Rescue Charity Fun Run in Mackay in the morning
The Joynson Family, Natasha, Craig and Alex enjoy running together
Brad Fraser ran an impressive 10km at the Bluewater Quay social run

Post run jubilation by Jo Hughes (3rd right) with fellow runners. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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The young U12 Rookieball players are showing great improvement in their pitching and catching, while their batting and fielding have reached new levels. Some are already preparing to transition into the U14s next year, with several emerging as impressive young softballers. Lucas Weinart and Nevaeh Smith were recognised for their hard work and dedication, each receiving club awards for their efforts.

The Joeyball littlies are also stepping up and starting to show off their skills, with several preparing to join the Rookieball squad next season. For now, they're still having a great time on the diamond each week.

Dragons 10 def. Dunbar Angels 9
It was a nail-biter between the young U14 teams.
Sienna Kitto picked up two walks for the Dragons, Boyd Baxter smashed a two-bagger to centrefield, and Levi Counsell slammed a home run over centrefield. Boyd also had a strong outing on the mound, finishing with three strikeouts. Dunbar, Zac Hargraves struck out two while pitching. Amanda Martyn-Jones, Mackenzie Rumpf, and Payton Roderigue each picked up walks, while Eli Neilson had a solid hit to leftfield.

Dragonflies 12 def. Pink Hawks 5
With ten catches throughout the game, the Dragonflies led the charge.
Toni Houton had a standout performance, crossing home plate three times and taking two catches. Noah Baxter also got on base three times, though was called out for leaving early, resulting in two runs. The Pink Hawks couldn’t catch a break at bat. Angela Baker and Chelsie Goodwin took a catch each, while Angela also contributed with four assisted outs.

Young Guns 13 def. Fireballs Angels 1
Hats off to Kim Elsworthy, who scored the only run for the Fireballs. The team showed patience at the plate, picking up several walks, but runners were left stranded. Kirsty Corbett managed a catch in the field. Eli Neilson slammed a home run, bringing home two runners. Boyd Baxter and Jett Parker each crossed the plate twice. Darcy Dolgner and Peyton Baker took a catch each to help secure the Young Guns' dominant win.

Results:

North jacklin choas  Angels  1  Dragons trye power 8
Dunbar Angels 9 Dragons Get the power 10
Pink Hawks 5  Dragon flies 12
Dragons Slayers 13 Storm 3
Angels fireballs 1 young guns 13
Golden oldies 3  Arch Angels 8
PM Deisel 7  Dragons BCN 8
Devils 15  Custom Angels 4
Heavy Iron Hawks 7  Augroup  0
Dr A men 7 Hells Angels 0
Dr A men 10  Allstars 0

Contributed by Cheryl Martin

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Young softballers are stepping up across all levels, with Rookieball and Joeyball players showing major improvement, and standout performances lighting up the diamond in a weekend of close games and big wins. Photos supplied

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Students Set To Sprint Alongside Cathy Freeman At Reef Arena

Mackay students will soon have the chance to lace up their runners and follow in the footsteps of one of Australia’s most beloved sporting icons — Cathy Freeman — in a landmark event celebrating the 25th anniversary of her unforgettable Olympic gold.

The Run With Cathy – Schools Challenge will take over the Great Barrier Reef Arena on Friday, October 24 at 3.30pm, honouring the moment Freeman captivated the world with her 400m victory at the Sydney 2000 Games, and celebrating the legacy she continues to build right here in North Queensland.

The community event invites primary and secondary students from across the region to take part in 400m races and 4x100m relay challenges, with one boy and one girl selected from each school for the solo sprint, and a mixed team of four for the relays. Cathy Freeman will personally present trophies to the winners, making it a memory that’s sure to stick with students for life.

The Great Barrier Reef Arena — recently upgraded and quickly becoming one of the state’s premier sporting venues — will play host to the community celebration, showcasing the incredible grassroots talent that calls Mackay home.

Freeman, a proud Kuku Yalanji woman with strong ties to North Queensland, has always carried her roots with pride, and her ongoing commitment to supporting youth, Indigenous communities, and environmental causes makes her visit even more meaningful.

Schools are encouraged to register their interest by August 29 by contacting nancy@harruppark.com.au.

From the red dirt to the reef, from Sydney 2000 to Brisbane 2032 — the next generation is getting ready to run.

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Mackay students will soon take part in the Run With Cathy – Schools Challenge, racing alongside Cathy Freeman at the Great Barrier Reef Arena to mark 25 years since her iconic Olympic gold. Photo source: Harrup Park

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The 71st Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim, and the 17th year it has been held as a cageless event, once again attracted open water swimmers from across the region. The iconic 8km swim starts at Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island and finishes on Townsville’s shoreline in front of Strand Park.

Swimmers typically complete the course with support from a kayaker who provides direction and sustenance throughout the swim. This year saw 73 solo swimmers, 10 duo teams, and 8 full teams of four take part.

Representing the Sinkers Masters Swim Club were Pierre Craven and Jenny Smith.

Pierre faced a challenging start when his support kayaker, Geoff Hamilton, was stranded on a delayed barge. Undeterred, Pierre set off solo after receiving sound advice from Jane Eggins, to “bolt out” and skip any stops for sustenance. The strategy paid off, with Pierre improving on his previous years’ time by a remarkable 30 minutes and finishing 7th in his age group. He credits the improvement to the patience and efficient freestyle coaching from Millie at the DMR Memorial Pool, home of the Sinkers.

Geoff eventually ferried back to Townsville, collected the kayak, and, with the help of Theresa Hackney, was able to rendezvous with Pierre 1.5km into the swim, providing much-needed direction and nutrition for the remainder of the journey.

It was Jenny Smith’s debut in the event, and her dedication was evident. After countless hours of training, she delivered a strong performance, finishing 8th in her age group. A local Townsville kayaker supported her on the water, while Jenny Furini and Theresa Hackney formed part of the on-ground cheer squad, with more support coming from back home in Mackay.

It’s not all swimming either, with many members not swimming but enjoying the social events and aspect of the club.

For more information, visit North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club on Facebook.

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The 71st Magnetic Island to Townsville Swim saw open water swimmers from across the region take on the iconic 8km challenge, with Sinkers Masters athletes Pierre Craven and Jenny Smith delivering standout performances in the cageless event. Photos supplied

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With Dragons Abreast Mackay

Dragons Abreast Mackay Celebrated it’s 20th Birthday on 26th July at the Mackay Harbour Marina.

Breast cancer survivors and supporters were joined by Townsville and Blue Mountains Dragons Abreast Clubs for a wonderful weekend of fun, friendship and celebration.  A fun paddle on the Marina was followed by a scrumptious morning tea in Mulherin Park.

“We all felt the groove with a Drum Circle by Rhythm Business, proving to be popular and enjoyed by all,” said club president, Janelle Moran.

“After an enjoyable Dinner at the Mackay Surf Club we sang and danced to the fantastic sounds of “Mango Junction” as we danced the night away.

“We were also treated to a wonderful performance from our paddling sisters from Townsville and Blue Mountain Clubs.”

The weekend was finished off with a BBQ on Sunday morning with a final catchup and farewell to the visiting clubs.

If you are a Breast Cancer Survivor, newly diagnosed, in treatment, or it is a distant memory – there is a seat in our boat for you. No experience needed, equipment and instruction are provided by the amazing crew.  Dragon boating gives breast cancer survivors more than a paddle in our hands, it gives us connection, confidence and community.

Are you ready to connect, move, and live?  Feel the power of paddling with a supportive team of survivors and Supporters.

If interested please contact Dragons Abreast Mackay on their Facebook Page.

Contributed by Janelle Moran

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A talented contingent of six from the Northern Beaches Shito Ryu Karate Club, led by Sensei Helle Smith, has returned from Singapore with an impressive seven medals – 1 Gold, 2 Silver and 4 Bronze.

Gold and Silver went to Tim Spratling, Silver and Bronze to Nathanial Smith, and Bronze medals were awarded to Helle Smith, Axsel Smith, and 9-year-old Phoenix Spratling – whose mum, Nicky Kupfer, also competed.

Two members achieved a major milestone by grading for their Shodan (1st level Black Belt) following a gruelling 2.5-hour examination before an elite international panel of Shihan. The awards were well deserved after 14 years of training for Tim and 10 years for Nathanial.

The 14th Shito Ryu International Championships were held in Singapore and brought together Shihan and practitioners from around the globe to train, compete, and learn. With 270 participants from 23 dojos across 13 countries, the level of competition was exceptionally high.

The Northern Beaches team made the most of their time abroad, training in a local park under 33-degree heat and 78% humidity, as well as indoors at their hotel and even in the pool.

A welcome dinner offered the opportunity for international dojos to share messages of appreciation and encouragement, further building camaraderie among participants.

The four-day event also featured training seminars conducted by high-ranking Shihan and the Head Instructor. The week concluded with a guided tour of Singapore's cultural highlights, including Gardens by the Bay, Chinatown, Arab Street, and the iconic Merlion statue – a perfect way to cement the friendships made during the championships.

The next major event on the horizon is in Osaka in July 2027.

Tim, Nicky, and daughter Phoenix have since returned to Mackay, proudly sharing their experiences – and their very heavy medals – with the local karate community. Meanwhile, Helle, Nathanial, and Axsel travelled on to Denmark for a family reunion.

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Six members of Northern Beaches Shito Ryu Karate Club brought home seven medals and two black belts from the international championships in Singapore. Photos supplied

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More than just a race, the 2025 BMA CQ Rescue Fun Run brought heart, hustle, and a whole lot of community spirit to the Mackay Marina on Sunday morning.

Hundreds turned out to run, walk, volunteer or cheer, raising vital funds to keep our community-funded rescue helicopter in the sky. With crisp winter air and clear blue skies, it was the perfect morning for a good cause.

In the 10km race, proudly presented by Ampcontrol, Jared Mackie claimed first place with a lightning-fast time of 37:26, followed by Hudson Mayfield (38:56) and Adam De Brabander (39:20).

The 5km sprint, sponsored by G-Mech, saw Corey Bryant take out top honours in 20:05, ahead of Ryan Borg (20:56) and Dylan Pearce (21:40).

Hosted by BMA CQ Rescue with support from Thiess, the event delivered an energetic and uplifting atmosphere from start to finish. From warming up to celebrating personal bests at the finish line, the community turned out in force to show their support.

Full race results are available at: https://my.raceresult.com/314628/

Every step made a difference — helping ensure the rescue chopper continues to save lives across our region.

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Runners take off at the 2025 BMA CQ Rescue Fun Run, raising vital funds to keep our region’s rescue helicopter in the sky. Photo credit: Coffee + Hops

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Mackay Surf Club Lifesavers celebrate a season of success

From national and state champions to podium finishes at North Aussies, branch age champions, and ensuring the safety of Harbour Beach, Mackay Surf Life Saving Club recently held its annual awards presentation night to honour the contributions of its dedicated volunteers.

Club President Brendan Smith opened the evening by reflecting on the club’s 75 years of “Vigilance and Service” to the Mackay community, proudly referring to its members as the “Guardians of Harbour Beach.” He acknowledged the challenges of the past season and the pride the club takes in its ongoing commitment.

“Being a volunteer organisation, there are many people who make personal sacrifices to contribute to the running of various aspects of the club, this ensures that we can keep our beach safe for the Mackay Community and this makes our club very proud,” Mr. Smith said.

The awards evening recognised both junior and senior members who make a difference, from the volunteer workforce behind major carnivals such as the North Australian Titles, Nippers and Youth development programs, to surf sports competitors, sponsors, and, most importantly, the Club Captain, Patrol teams and patrolling members who help protect our beaches.

All of Mackay SLSC’s volunteer members are local heroes.

Award recipients:

• Junior Club Champion – Will Henry
• John Patti Most Improved Nipper – Lachlan Griffith
• Flo Payne Club Nipper Culture – Isabella Grant
• George Moody Quiet Achiever – Hayden Tobin
• Junior Coaches Award – Cadence McKinnon
• Junior Club Captain – Ash Johnson / Hayden Tobin
• President’s award for ‘Service and Vigilance – Joshua Grant
• Volunteer of the year – Peter “Legs” Marshall
• Patrol captains 2025 : Stan Ridland , Alex DeSousa, Stewart Richardson , Brendan Smith , Stephen Bird ,Tony Caris
• Reg & Helen Butlers Patrol Captain of the year – Stewart Richardson
• Patrol of the Year – Patrol 3: Ryan Lee, Matt Newlands, Stewart Richardson, Zara Richardson, Nate McKinnon, Melania Craig, Cadence McKinnon
• Coach of the year – Cathy McKinnon - Champion Lifesaver Team
• Senior Competitor of the Year: Zara Richardson
• Masters competitor of the Year: Ben Madden
• Team of the Year: Champion Lifesavers: Nate McKinnon, Cadence McKinnon, Isabella Grant & Zara Richardson
• Surf Boatie of the Year: Anthony White
• Best New Bronze Medallion Club Member – Dan Stampa
• Life Member : Lexi Schiffer – long term Junior Activities contributions

Contributed By Josh Grant

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PlayOn! Vouchers Now Available

Families across the Mackay region have a new reason to get excited as the Crisafulli Government’s PlayOn! sports voucher program officially opened for applications at 9am on Sunday, 4 August. Designed to support grassroots sport and ease cost-of-living pressures, the program offers eligible families up to $200 per child to assist with registration, equipment, and uniforms.

Local Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP, welcomed the launch, calling it “a win for families and grassroots sport.”

“From the 4th of August, everybody can get online and apply for the vouchers, where youngsters will be able to receive $200 to help with their winter or summer sports, covering sporting equipment, uniforms, boots, shoes,” Mr Dalton said.

“It’s a wonderful initiative that we’ll be carrying on for a couple of years.”

The benefits of encouraging children to participate in sport extend beyond the financial relief the vouchers provide.

“Once kids are out and about playing sport, they socialise better, learn how to win, how to lose, and how to deal with issues and problems. They think quickly, have better health outcomes from being active, and overall, their mental health improves significantly,” Mr Dalton explained.

According to the Australian Sports Commission, nearly 60% of children aged 5 to 14 participate in organised sport or physical activities, highlighting the critical role sport plays in young Australians’ lives.

The PlayOn! program aims to boost these numbers further, with a particular focus on regional communities.

“Whether it’s netball in North Mackay, footy near the Airport, or swimming in the Memorial Pool – this program is about giving every child in our region the opportunity to stay active and engaged,” said Mr Dalton.

The program also aligns with longer-term ambitions, including nurturing future sporting stars.

“It’s great to get youngsters active, and the LNP government is helping by providing these vouchers. This is also about preparing kids for the Olympics in the lead-up to 2032,” Mr Dalton added.

Highlighting local success, he said, “Someone from Mackay has hit the big stage just within the last 24 hours in Singapore. It’s all possible for regional youngsters as well as kids in the city, and it’s all available through these $200 vouchers.”

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli emphasised the program’s broader impact.

“The Play On! Sports Vouchers program means more kids will be able to be part of a sporting team, joining their friends on the field, rather than watching from the sidelines,” he said.

“This new program is about better health and fitness but also for discipline and ensuring kids can be part of their community.”

Key details of the program include:

• One voucher per child, per year (applicable to either summer or winter sports rounds)
• Regional allocations to ensure rural and regional areas like Mackay receive support
• Dedicated funding pool available for children living with a disability
• Medicare card required to apply

All eligible families are encouraged to apply early and not miss out on this valuable support.

Applications can be made online via the Queensland Government Sport and Recreation website:
www.sport.qld.gov.au/sport/funding-programs/play-on

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton is encouraging Mackay families to apply for PlayOn! vouchers, getting up to $200 per child to support sport participation and ease costs. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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With Mackay Contract Bridge Club

BRIDGE

It was a busy week with the playing of the Unders & Overs Tuesday night, the final week of the Founders Teams, and the final two days of the 2025 Whitsunday GNOT.

Weekly Results

Monday 28 July 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Andrew Canavan / Geoffrey Patterson
2nd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martín 2nd Terry Sheedy / Griff Bancroft
3rd Mary Cruickshank / Ian Cruickshank 3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
4th Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane 4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson

Tuesday Evening 29 July 2025 – Unders and Overs 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Sue Meyer-Miller / Geoff Taylor 1st Janelle Conroy / Martin Pearce
2nd Karen Caldwell / Helen Van Den Broek 2nd Diane Morgan / Christine Morrison
3rd Annette Howe / Debra Goodchild 3rd Frances Brown / Jewel Schmidt
4th Christopher Meyers / Noel Bugeia 4th Richard Wix / Vicki Howard

Wednesday 30 July 2025 – Round 3 of 3 Founders Team event Green Points
Team Players
1st Josie Crowley Josie Crowley/Anne Lutz/Gwen Liddell/Barbara Tait
2nd Janet Hansen Janet Hansen/Diane/Morgan/Frances Brown/Alan Brown
3rd Ming Ting Ming Ting/David Ting/Mick King/Errol Morris
4th Roland Taylor Roland Taylor/Janelle Conroy/Noel Bugeia / Lorna Shuttlewood

Founders Team Final after 3 weeks
Team Players
1st Roland Taylor Terry Sheedy/Roland Taylor/Janelle Conroy/Lorna Shuttlewood/Noel Bugeia
2nd Janet Hansen Janet Hansen/Diane/Morgan/Frances Brown/Alan Brown
3rd Josie Crowley Josie Crowley/Anne Lutz/Gwen Liddell/Barbara Tait
4th Ming Ting Ming Ting/David Ting/Mick King/Errol Morris

Thursday Evening 31 July 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 2nd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
3rd Vicki Howard / Richard Wix 4th Janet Hansen / Patricia Wong

Friday 1 August 2025 – Week 15 of 25 NWP 9 Table Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 1st Frances Brown / Annette Howe
2nd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole 2nd Diane Stokes / Griff Bancroft
3rd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 3rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox
4th Edward Kleise / Nancy Wix 4th Jewel Schmidt / Richard Wix

Whitsunday Zone GNOT Final 2025 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
Team Players
1st Morgan Diane Morgan/Marilin Robins/Frances Brown/Alan Brown
2nd Bugeia Noel Bugeia/Terry Sheedy/Janelle Conroy/Geoff Taylor/Roland Taylor
3rd Goodchild Eric Goodchild/Debra Goodchild/Ming Ting/David Ting
4th Garner Patricia Garner/Adrian Westcott/Mary Cruickshank/Ian Cruickshank

Contributed by Joy Block

GNOT winners Marilin, Alan, Frances and Diane

Noel, Terry and Lorna - winners of Founders Team. Photos supplied.

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What started as a hopeful swing at doing some good has turned into a powerhouse of philanthropy, as the 10th Annual M&P Services–Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day hit the green at Mackay Golf Club last Friday — raising a record-breaking $75,178 for local charities.

With this year’s success, the event has now raised more than $350,000 across its decade-long history, cementing its reputation as Central and North Queensland’s premier fundraising golf day.

And if you ask event founder Max Lamb Jr, the milestone was both humbling and exhilarating.

“I honestly didn’t expect it to grow like this. Ten years ago, we raised $6,000. To now have hit $350,000 total — it’s a huge testament to what this community can do when we come together,” he said.

This year saw 42 teams tee off in a full-day celebration of golf, generosity, and grassroots impact. The course was lined with not only players but plenty of fun — from novelty challenges to raffles, auctions and the much-hyped “SCIG Clubhouse Giveaway.”

A record 110 raffle prizes worth approximately $35,000 were up for grabs, alongside 14 high-value auction items that included everything from NRL Grand Final tickets to rare memorabilia like a limited-edition “8-in-a-row” XXXX State of Origin tin collection.

But the moment that stole the show?

Rod Allen from Inspec Industries winning the $39,000 cyclone-rated SCIG Clubhouse — and immediately donating it back to the Trudy Crowley Foundation.

“It was an unprecedented act of generosity,” Max said. “Rod’s donation left everyone speechless. It perfectly captured the spirit of this event — people giving back without hesitation.”

While the highly coveted hole-in-one prize remained elusive again this year, excitement was high around the infamous “Happy Gilmore” hole and the day’s novelty challenges. As always, team results were drawn out of a hat to keep the focus firmly on fun and fundraising.

Another crowd favourite moment came during the official welcome speech by Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson, when Max Lamb Jr surprised him with his very own masters style golf jacket. In a light-hearted twist, Max handed the Mayor a 15-cent receipt from Temu — complete with plastic daggers stuck to the back — joking that it could serve as a ‘perk’ of office or a dubious claimable expense. The playful gesture drew plenty of laughs and set the tone for a spirited day.

Major sponsors Key Solutions Group, GB Industries, Infrabuild, Harvey Norman Electrical & Computers, SCIG Mackay, QCCS, Inspec Industries, Penske and WHF Constructions were instrumental in making the day a success — not to mention the small army of volunteers and local businesses who contributed prizes, time, and energy.

Twelve local beneficiary charities were once again supported, with Protein Pink also included at the eleventh hour thanks to the generosity of the SCIG Clubhouse giveaway.

For Max, one of the most powerful parts of the day was reflecting on how far it has come.

“From an idea during a downturn to this incredible legacy of community support — it’s overwhelming in the best way,” he said.

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From powerful drives to hilarious moments on the Happy Gilmore hole — where players took a running swing in hard hats — the 10th Annual Charity Golf Day served up action, laughter, and unforgettable shots both on and off the fairway! Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Teams and players gathered in the clubhouse before tee-off, soaking up the good vibes, sharing a laugh, and gearing up for a day of fun, fundraising, and friendly competition. Photo credit: Photos by Nell

M&P’s Kirsty Sivyer and Max Lamb Jr share a laugh with Mayor Greg Williamson, who proudly sports his new teal jacket

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Mackay’s Runners And Riders Rise To The Challenge

Mackay Road Runners Tackle Eungella KOM Despite Damp Conditions
RUNNING

The Pioneer Valley was abuzz early Sunday morning for the annual Eungella King of the Mountain race, which started at 7am from Netherdale. Despite damp conditions, over 100 runners and cyclists participated in what organisers hailed as a huge success.

The event has enjoyed the longstanding support of sponsors including the Eungella Chalet, which has backed the race for 40 years, alongside M-Test Mackay, Podiatry Mackay, and Veronica Pettifer, who sponsors the Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy.

The Laura Pettifer Inspirational 2.6km trophy was awarded to first-placed female and male runners, Lily Leven and Toby Rule, who impressed with their uphill performances despite recent school cross country commitments. Junior runners Millie Bishop (2nd) and Isabelle Hayles (3rd) also posted strong times, while Max Miles (2nd) and Oscar Hayles (3rd) completed the junior male podium. All juniors received cash prizes from Podiatry Mackay and $100 Rebel vouchers donated by Veronica Pettifer.

Over 40 runners competed in both junior and open categories, mirrored by a strong turnout in the cycling events. Three-time winner Alana Knezevic took out the women’s open race in 38 minutes 43 seconds, closely matching her previous year’s time despite a slightly longer course. Sam Sticklan claimed second place, followed by Kelly Chappell and Carolyn Mapes.

In the men’s open race, first-time participant Jared Havemann won in 34 minutes 37 seconds. Ryan Gibbs edged out Jonathan Davies by five seconds for second place, with Kingsley McLaren fourth. Many runners described the course as challenging, with some vowing never to return, though organisers noted such remarks are often repeated.

M-Test Mackay sponsored cash prizes for all male and female placegetters from first to fourth.

The event also benefited from generous donations of random draw prizes from the Eungella community, including Cloudbreak Lowlines Stud & Commercial Beef, Crediton Community Hall, and Stone Cottage Farm. Food and drink service was praised for its speed and efficiency.

Organisers extended thanks to patient local drivers who accommodated race logistics and to photographer Brad Lenahan for capturing the day’s highlights. The Mackay Cycling Club President Mark Harris ensured smooth cycling operations, coordinating sponsors Torque Tyres and Trailer Spares and managing course preparations.

Mackay Road Runners’ Andrew Short started course prep at 3am alongside volunteers Mark Harris, Tim Magoffin, Brendan Bishop, David Isbister, and Len Howarth – a huge effort despite causing him to start his own race ten minutes late. Registrar Tracey Dean streamlined online registrations, helping timekeepers Rohan Miles, Julie Whibley, and Jo Hughes manage race day efficiently.

Runners and cyclists are invited to the next Signature Event and Club Championship on Sunday, 10 August – the North Queensland Bulk Ports Open Magic Mile and Podiatry Mackay Junior Magic Mile at the Mackay Harbour Breakwater. Online registrations close Friday, 8 August at 6pm. The club welcomes all participants regardless of membership status and thanks its generous sponsors for ongoing support.

Mackay Cyclists Battle The Eungella Range In Thrilling Hill Climb
CYCLING

Last weekend, the Eungella King of the Mountain event put thirty-seven Mackay cyclists to the ultimate test of grit and endurance. This Club Championship Hill Climb challenges riders with a demanding 6.1km ascent up the Eungella Range, pushing them through a 20 to 50 minute FTP trial that separates the true climbers from the rest.

Leading the pack was U17 competitor Ethan Jansen, who finished first with a time of 25 minutes 28 seconds, averaging 15.0 km/h. Close behind was B Grade rider Ashley Brownsey, finishing second in 26:24, just under a minute behind Jansen. U17 rider Riley Green secured third place with a time of 26:35. The top five was rounded out by A Grade cyclist Kyle Marwood in fourth (27:00) and U15 competitor Max Teague in fifth (27:04), all demonstrating remarkable grit in this demanding hill climb.

Top 5 finishers:

1st - Ethan Jansen (No. 29)
Time: 25:28.49
Speed: 15.0 km/h
Category: U17

2nd - Ashley Brownsey (No. 10)
Time: 26:24.11
Speed: 14.5 km/h
+0:55.62 behind 1st
Category: B Grade

3rd - Riley Green (No. 28)
Time: 26:35.36
Speed: 14.4 km/h
+1:06.87 behind 1st
Category: U17

4th - Kyle Marwood (No. 2)
Time: 27:00.00
Speed: 14.2 km/h
+1:31.51 behind 1st
Category: A Grade

5th - Max Teague (No. 32)
Time: 27:04.58
Speed: 14.1 km/h
+1:36.09 behind 1st
Category: U15

M-Test Open Eungella King and Queen of the Mountain participants hit the road from Netherdale  for the 6.4km event.

Tri-Activ8 entrants enjoyed Eungella’s stunning backdrop after the Torque Tyres Cycle event and M-Test, Laura Pettifer Inspirational & Podiatry Mackay Open and junior foot race.

Male and female runners (right) Alana Knezevic &Jared Havemann and cyclist winners (left) Ethan Jansen & Tenielle Galea with the Torque Tyres & Trailer Spares perpetual trophy.

Ryan Gibbs (2nd placed runner) is congratulated by his children and wife, Kate.

Isabelle Hayles and Oscar Hayles racing in the junior King of the Mountain for the coveted Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy and Podiatry Mackay cash prizes.

The Laura Pettifer Inspirational Perpetual Trophy is awarded to first placed female and male, Lily Leven and Toby Rule.

Matthew Mapes performed superbly in his first attempt of the M-Test King of the Mountain 6.4km.

Carolyn Mapes scored home bragging rights finishing 4th female and more importantly ahead of husband, Matt.

Sam Sticklan was ecstatic with her 2nd placing in the M-Test King of the Mountain. Photos supplied

Thirty-seven Mackay cyclists took on the brutal 6.1km Eungella King of the Mountain climb, with U17 rider Ethan Jansen powering to victory in 25:28 to claim the Club Championship title. Photo source: Mackay Cycling Club

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UNDERWATER HOCKEY

In a captivating display of skill and teamwork, the junior club members showcased the bright future ahead for the club’s young athletes. The evening kicked off with a series of flicking drills, setting the stage for a competitive and engaging 6 v 5 match.

Owen, Isabelle, and Macca stood out with consistent excellence, demonstrating remarkable control and strategy throughout the game. However, the MVP award undoubtedly went to the Bollard boys. Their performance elevated the intensity of the match, with their father skillfully capitalising on their impressive efforts.

Under the watchful eye of Sophie, it was evident that both teams had made significant strides in passing, curling, and turning skills, resulting in longer rallies and a more technical game overall. This improvement reflects the dedication and hard work put in by the junior members and bodes well for the club’s future.

A light-hearted challenge emerged during the session, as players were reluctant to conclude the match, leading to multiple requests for "just one more game." This camaraderie and enthusiasm among players exemplify the strong spirit within the club.

As the program continues to grow, it may be necessary to introduce a rule to manage these extended match requests, ensuring everyone makes the most of their time in the pool. Overall, Monday night’s session was a testament to the talent and potential within the junior ranks, promising an exciting future for the club.

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Junior underwater hockey players impressed with skill, strategy, and spirited teamwork on Monday night, with standout performances, a fun-filled match, and growing momentum for the club’s bright future. Photo supplied

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Mackay Celebrates Olympic Countdown In Style

With the countdown to Brisbane 2032 well underway, Mackay is stepping into the Olympic spotlight—celebrating seven years to go with a powerful tribute to our region’s growing legacy and the rising stars who could one day represent us on the world stage.

As an official Olympic cricket venue, Mackay is now part of sporting history.

Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton MP joined young swimmers, coaches, and community leaders to celebrate the Olympic milestone and promote the power of sport to transform lives.

“This isn’t just a countdown – it’s a call to action,” Mr Dalton said.

“Being selected as a host city puts Mackay on the global map, and today we celebrate what that means for our region’s kids – their futures, their dreams, and the opportunities ahead.”

Mr Dalton said the poolside setting was a powerful symbol of what’s possible when local sport is supported and celebrated.

“These kids represent the future of Australian sport,” he said.

“They’re already putting in the work, showing discipline and determination, and that’s exactly what the Olympic spirit is all about.”

He also acknowledged the proud legacy of elite athletes who have called Mackay home.
“Mackay has a proud history of producing Olympic and Paralympic athletes who have represented Australia with distinction,” Mr Dalton said.

“From swimmers and rowers to cyclists and sprinters, our region has already proven it can nurture world-class talent. The Brisbane 2032 Games give us an opportunity to build on that legacy and inspire even more young people to follow in their footsteps.”

Mr Dalton encourages families to take advantage of the Queensland Government’s $200 PlayOn Vouchers, which help parents cover the cost of sport registration, uniforms, and equipment.

“Whether your child dreams of gold or just wants to be part of a team, sport builds resilience, confidence and connection,” he said.

“The PlayOn program ensures cost isn’t a barrier – it’s about opening doors.”

For more information on the PlayOn Vouchers and how to apply, visit:
www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/play

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Mackay is proudly marking seven years to go until the Brisbane 2032 Games with a celebration of local talent, sporting legacy, and a call to inspire the next generation of Olympians and Paralympians.

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BRIDGE

The second round of the Founders Teams event was won by team Roland Taylor. One more week to go, with each team in with a chance. The Novice and Mentors was played on Sunday with a great turn out. June incentive awards go to Martin Pearce and Laura Howland.

Weekly Results

Monday 21 June 2025 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
2nd Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers 2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd Marilin Robins / Diane Morgan 3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
4th Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane 4th Janet Hansen / Patricia Wong

Tuesday Evening 22 July 2025 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood 2nd Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner
3rd Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 4th Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

Wednesday 23 July 2025 – Round 2 of 3 Founders Team event Green Points
Team Players
1st Roland Taylor Roland Taylor/Janine Conroy/Noel Bugeia / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Janet Hansen Janet Hansen/Diane/Morgan/Frances Brown/Alan Brown
3rd Karen Caldwell Karen Caldwell/Geoff Taylor/Joy Robinson/Robert Carless
4th Sue Meyer-Miller Sue Meyer-Miller/Mary Rose Ramsden/Martin Pearce/Victor Mason

Thursday Evening 24 July 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 2nd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
3rd Vicki Howard / Richard Wix 4th Janet Hansen / Patricia Wong

Friday 25 July 2025 – Week 14 of 25 NWP 7 Table Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild 2nd Julie O’Neill / Helen Van Den Broek
3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild

Saturday 26 July 2025 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Jan Harris 1st Terry Sheedy / Adrian Westcott
2nd Alan Brown / Frances Brown 2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Broek
4th Faye Wright / Annie Lynch 4th Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

Sunday 27 July 2025 – Novice & Mentors 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Christine Morrison / Rodney Miles 1st Debra Goodchild / Annette Howe
2nd Martin Pearce / Adrian Westcott 2nd Pam Cassidy / Susan Ross
3rd Colleen Riddel / Frances Brown 3rd Joy Block / Terrence Sheedy

Contributed by Joy Block

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Conveener Anne with incentive winners Martin and Laura. Photo supplied

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It’s been another action-packed week at Proserpine Golf Club, with strong turnouts and impressive scores across the board.

Fixtures – Week Ending 27 July
Mon 21/7: Social play
Tue 22/7: Stroke / Vets' Closed Championship
Wed 23/7: Stroke
Thu 24/7: Stableford
Fri 25/7: Metropole Hotel 9-Hole Run & Putt for Cash (Draw 4pm, Play 4.30pm)
Sat 26/7: Course closed – Ladies’ Pennants
Sun 27/7: Ladies’ Pennants (AM), Course reopens 12.30pm for social play

Tuesday 15/7 – Stableford
Men: Gary Scotford 41pts (W), Tevita Mapapalangi (SGC GC) 38pts (R/U)
Ladies: Jacqui Wall 36pts (W), Heather Luvis 35pts (R/U)
NTPs: Paul Gray (9th), Andrew Smarth (13th); Jenny Fitch (9th), Elspeth Scotford (16th)

Tuesday 15/7 – Vets Stableford
Men: Gary Scotford 41pts (W), John Strelec 38pts (R/U)
Ladies: Jacqui Wall 36pts (W), Heather Luvis 35pts (R/U)
NTPs: Ken Granger, Vic Feldman, Gary Scotford, Harry Milne, Louis Neethling, Wilf Herweg; Lyn Muller (x2), Elspeth Scotford, Jacqui Wall, Anna Winterbourn

Wednesday 16/7 – Stableford
Men: Brad Fleet 40pts (W), Luke Swift 37pts (R/U)
Ladies: Elspeth Scotford 40pts (W), Trish McNeill 35pts (R/U)
NTPs: Leanne Alexander, Tiina Randmae (2nd), Trish McNeill, Sherri Meade (18th)

Thursday 17/7 – Stableford
Men A Grade: Geoff Harrison 40pts (W c/b), Jason Bourke 40pts (R/U)
Men B Grade: Wilf Herweg 43pts (W), Paul Joice 39pts (R/U)
NTPs: Brock Smith (2nd & 9th), John Oates (13th), Geoff Harrison (16th)

Friday 18/7 – Metropole Hotel 9-Hole Run
Winner: Tommy Gallagher 22pts (c/b)
R/U: Chris Pirlo
3rd: Tom O’Brien 18pts (c/b)
NTPs: Harry Russell (13th), Troy Leisch (16th)
Putt for Cash: Tina Badenhorst nailed it first go – $750 in the bank!

Saturday 19/7 – Stableford (Allenbuild)
Men A Grade: Tom O’Brien 42pts (W), Paul Gray 38pts (R/U), Kristian Mulholland 35pts (3rd)
Men B Grade: Dean Kercher 38pts (W), Trevor Paroz 36pts (R/U c/b), Geoffrey Kelly (Rich River GC) 36pts (3rd)
Ladies: Karen Johnson 39pts (W), Joanne Moynihan 38pts (R/U), Megan Becker 37pts (3rd)
NTPs: Peter Faust (2nd), Mark Schubert (9th), Michael Ward (13th); Toni Clauss (2nd), Karen Johnson (9th), Nicole Cooper (13th)

Sunday 20/7 – Stableford
Men: Kev Cooper 40pts (W), Connor Devery 37pts (R/U), Dean Barnard (SGC GC) 36pts (3rd)
Ladies: Tiina Randmae 39pts (W), Sherri Meade 37pts (R/U), Anna Winterbourn 35pts (3rd)
NTPs: Dean Barnard (2nd), Cory O’Shea (9th), Patrick Camm (13th), Mata Browne (16th); Tiina Randmae (2nd), Sherri Meade (9th).

Contributed with thanks to Tiina Randmae

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Mackay’s rising distance runners are stepping onto the national stage, with four outstanding athletes earning selection in the Queensland All Schools Cross Country Team after standout performances at the recent state championships.

Leading the charge is Mackay Road Runners junior club champion Toby Rule, who has enjoyed a stellar seven-day stretch of competition. Last weekend, Toby placed eighth in the 8km race at the Queensland Athletics Cross Country Championships in Toogoolawah, securing a well-earned spot in the Queensland Cross Country Team bound for Ballarat in late August.

This past weekend, he raised the bar again, claiming silver in the 18–19 Years 8km race at the All Schools State Cross Country Championships. The result earned him a place on his first All Schools Queensland Team, which will compete at the national championships in early September.

As if that weren’t enough, Toby also took out gold in the 1500m time trial, adding another accolade to an already extraordinary season. He is set to compete in the Mackay & District Secondary School trials this week and is even eyeing a start in the Eungella King of the Mountain event this Sunday.

But Toby isn’t the only local athlete chasing national success.

From The Rules of Running, a Mackay-based middle-distance training squad that calls MARC home, three additional runners have also earned state honours.

In the fiercely competitive 13 Years Girls division, Ayla Moon claimed silver, earning herself a place on the Queensland team. Her perseverance and dedication throughout the season have impressed coaches and peers alike.

Close behind was Shailee Mewha, who finished a strong fourth, also securing her spot on the Queensland team. Her result is especially commendable given the depth of talent in this age group at state level.

Millie Groom, representing the North Queensland team, delivered an excellent performance to finish third, rounding out a strong showing from Mackay athletes and booking her place at nationals.

“There were four selected for nationals,” said Belinda Rule, proud mum and Coach of four years.

“All four runners – Toby Rule, Ayla Moon, Shailee Mewha, and Millie Groom – will be heading to represent Queensland at the 2024 All Schools National Cross Country Championships in September, from the 7th to the 10th, which is pretty exciting.”

Belinda praised the disciplined preparation and commitment shown by the young athletes.

“These guys trained six days a week… since the 6th of January. That gave us 12 to 13 weeks of uninterrupted training.

“The plan was executed beautifully by them.”

In the time trial event, gold medals also went to August Cole (15 Years) and Ayla Moon (13 Years), alongside Toby’s win in the 18–19 Years division.

As results continue to roll in, Mackay’s emerging cross-country talent is proving they’re not just keeping pace with the rest of the state, they’re leading the charge toward national recognition.

“By the time 2032 rolls around, most of them will be in their 20s — which is peak time for our middle-distance runners,” Belinda said.

“That’s where our rising running stars are hoping to be – at the Olympics.”

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Mackay's rising stars have earned selection in the Queensland All Schools Cross Country Team after standout performances at the state championships, with Toby Rule, Ayla Moon, Shailee Mewha, and Millie Groom all set to represent Queensland at the 2024 national titles. Photo source: The Rules Of Running (Facebook)

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Softball Action Heats Up

It was a nail-biting clash between the Pink Hawks and Dragon Slayers, with both teams locked at 13-all by the final whistle.

The Pink Hawks came out swinging, scoring six runs in the opening dig. Charlotte Whittaker, Angela Baker, and Julie Hankin each made it home three times, while Katrina Whittaker hit her first-ever home run, rounding all the bases to add to the tally. Defensively, Darcy Dorsett took two catches and Katrina added one more to the Pink Hawks' fielding efforts.

For the Dragon Slayers, Audra Pollard and Tyler Noe were relentless on the bases, scoring three runs apiece. Tyler delivered two home runs, each bringing teammates home to keep the scores level. Maxine Baxter and Kartia Ball contributed strong fielding performances with crucial catches that helped contain the Pink Hawks’ scoring spree.

In another close contest, the BCN Dragons edged out PM Diesel 8–7.

Young gun Evie Grace impressed with eight strikeouts (8K2), pitching to catcher Lydia Oldham. Evie and teammate Alison Bekker each smashed powerful three-base hits into the outfield, with Evie being the only Dragon to cross the plate twice.

PM Diesel saw big hits from Peyton Barrow and Shane Baker, who each cracked a home run and scored twice from three at-bats. Although Vicki Hudson had a tough day at the plate, striking out three times, she made up for it with a stellar performance in the field — notching up five assisted outs and three catches.

In DR A Men’s division, the Dragons defeated Hells Angels 7–2.

John Nash and Jesse Miles powered the scoreboard with two home runs each. Cameron Baxter was sharp on the mound with nine strikeouts (9K2), pitching to Emmett Councell, with Jordan Doss and Ethan Bryan adding a catch apiece to hold back the opposition.

For the Hells Angels, Jaxon Maluga had a standout game on the mound, clocking 10 strikeouts (10K2) with Cayden Love behind the plate. Heinrich Ackerman and John Herekiuha both took solid catches, while AJ Tareeala and Jayden Love were the only players to cross the plate, with others left stranded on base.

Results:
• Dr flies 13  fireballs 7
• Get the power  5  north jacklin choas 10
• Dunbar Angels 10  Tyre power  6.
• Heavy diesel Hawks 17  custom angels 13
• Dr A men 7  hells Angels 2
• Pink Hawks 13  dragon Slayers 13
• Dragons BCN  8  PM diesel  7

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The weekend’s softball action saw the Pink Hawks and Dragon Slayers battle to a thrilling 13-all draw, while standout pitching and powerful hitting helped the BCN Dragons, DR A Men, and others notch hard-fought wins in a series of tight contests across the divisions. Photos supplied

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Over the weekend, four talented acrobats from Mackay Gymnastics showcased their skills at the prestigious Australian National Championships, held on the Gold Coast. Competing against strong rivals from across the country, the young athletes delivered outstanding performances that reflected their dedication and talent.

Among the standout routines, Artaya and Mia secured an impressive third place in their dynamic routine, demonstrating exceptional teamwork and precision. Their success is a testament to the effort and commitment they’ve poured into their training.

Fellow competitors Oriana and Pia also performed admirably, showcasing their strength and determination in a highly competitive field. Coach Jenny Rowland expressed immense pride in all four athletes for their efforts and perseverance throughout the championship.

Jenny, an international-level coach and judge, played a vital role across the three-day event, judging all sessions.

Reflecting on the experience, she said, “The success of our acrobats at the Australian National Championships is not just a win for them but a proud moment for the entire Mackay community.

“It demonstrates the dedication and talent that exists in our region, inspiring young athletes to pursue their dreams and showcasing the strength of our gymnastics programs.

“More importantly, it highlights the foundational principles of gymnastics, which instill vital movement and life skills for all our participants aged 4 months to 80 plus. We are so proud of all of our hardworking gymnasts at Mackay Gymnastics.”

Jenny’s guidance and expertise have been instrumental in preparing the athletes for elite-level competition.

Now, with the Nationals behind them, the girls are shifting their focus to training for the upcoming Regional Championships in Gladstone and the State Championships in Brisbane this August. With fresh motivation and growing momentum, the future looks bright for this dedicated team of young athletes.

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Four young acrobats from Mackay Gymnastics impressed at the Australian National Championships on the Gold Coast, with Artaya and Mia earning third place and all athletes praised for their skill, dedication, and strong performances. Photos supplied

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At The Airlie Beach Festival

Mackay Road Runners were spoilt for choice over the weekend, with members taking part in both the local Bluewater Quay social run and the popular Airlie Beach Running Festival.

While just over twenty runners enjoyed perfect winter conditions along the Bluewater Trail, it was Mick Vivian who blazed a strong trail in the Airlie Beach Marathon. Vivian looked set to take out top honours in the 42.2km event before a persistent hamstring niggle forced him to dig deep and settle for a hard-earned second place.

Ultramarathoner Paul MacKenzie showed his usual grit and determination to finish an impressive fourth overall, followed closely by fellow Mackay runners Chris Brodie, Brad Fraser, Nigel Thomas, and Brenda Windsor.

Skye Perkins also delivered a standout performance, clocking 3 hours, 16 minutes, and 21 seconds to claim fourth female overall and first in her age category.

In the half marathon, Levi Wallace was thrilled to record a personal best time and fourth place in his age division. Solid efforts were also recorded by Leo Walz, Craig McGahey, John Rae, Andy Steane, Sacha Hoare, Jo Skinner, and Greg Dawes, the latter contesting the 10km distance.

With a flurry of events on the calendar, this weekend presents another exciting challenge, with runners needing to choose between the club’s Signature Event — the Eungella King and Queen of the Mountain — and the Yeppoon Running Festival.

The M-Test Open Eungella King of the Mountain 6.4km foot race and the Torque Tyres and Trailer Spares 6.4km cycle race both kick off from Netherdale at 7am on Sunday, finishing at the picturesque Chalet lawns for runners and at the summit for cyclists.

The junior foot race, proudly sponsored by Veronica Pettifer in honour of the Laura Pettifer Inspirational Award and supported by Podiatry Mackay, will start halfway up the climb. Junior competitors are asked to meet at Netherdale by 6.30am for transport to the start line. Running nominations close online at 6pm on Saturday, 26 July.

Cycling nominations are managed by the Mackay Cycle Club, with on-the-day registration available. Cyclists are advised to confirm details with Mackay Cycle Club President Mark Harris on 0439 131 362.

All runners are reminded that Mackay Road Runners Club Captain Jim Ford conducts free weekly training sessions each Wednesday from 5.30pm to 6.30pm at the ARC in Ooralea. These structured track sessions are open to all – no membership required – with only a $4 facility entry fee at the kiosk. Jim’s expert coaching helps build strength, speed, and stamina, and all are welcome to join.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

Over twenty runners tackled the Bluewater Quay 5k, 10km social run, which had a slight variation from the usual.
Congratulations to Race Director Andrew Short who set another interesting course for the 2nd week in a row.
Alana Knezevic is well supported by Harvey Knezevic in the 5km Bluewater Quay social run.
Vivian Knezevic supports her Dad, Adam Knezevic in the 5km Bluewater Quay social event.
Fran March powered her way to the finish line in the 5km Bluewater Quay Social event. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

Mackay Bridge Players Shine Bright

The Townsville Congress was held in June, with four players attending from Mackay. Janelle Conroy, Geoff Taylor, Terry Sheedy and Noel Bugeia had an eventful weekend placing in two out of three events. Terrence and Noel won the Walk ins North/South and Janelle and Geoff won the Walk ins East/West. The four combined in the teams event to come in third place.

Well done, red points for everyone!

Weekly Results

Monday 14 June 2025 –- 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Marilin Robins / Diane Morgan 1st Debra Goodchild / Geoffrey Patterson
2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 2nd Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers
3rd Susan Ross / Vicki Howard 3rd Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane
4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson 4th Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin

Tuesday Evening 15 July 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris 2nd Adrian Westcott / Patricia Garner
3rd Martin Pearce / Chris Meyers 4th Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood

Wednesday 16 July 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell - Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 1st Geoff Taylor / Karen Caldwell
2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 2nd Sandra Morris / Jan Harris.
3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson 3rd Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell

Thursday Evening 17 July 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris 2nd Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott
3rd Patricia Garner / Geoff Taylor 4th Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 18 July 2025 –6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Chris Nice / Diane Cox 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown
3rd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 3rd Roland Taylor / Lynne O’Neill

Saturday 19 July 2025 – 13 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild 2nd Robert Carless / Sandy Patterson
3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Anne Lutz / Margaret Lane
4th Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 4th Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch
5th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 5th Susan Ross / Laura Howland
6th Richard Wix / Janine Rodgers 6th Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

Contributed by Joy Block

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Mackay’s Noel Bugeia, Terry Sheedy, and Janelle Conroy shone at the Townsville Congress in June, winning Walk-in events and placing third in the teams, with local players also scoring strong weekly results and green points. Photos supplied

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Mackay’s own Riley James was in Canada from July 8 to 14, where he helped defend Australia’s 2022 softball championship title at the WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup Finals in Prince Albert.

Starting his softball journey as a junior with the Angels in 2004, Riley has since represented Mackay, Queensland, and Australia on numerous occasions.

Riley James is a pure product of Australia’s highly successful Men's National Team programme. He joined the programme at a young age, and at just 23 years old, he had already played in two WBSC U-18 World Cups, a WBSC U-23 World Cup, and now finds himself in his second senior-level global competition.

Even more impressively, along with teammate Matt Harrow, James is one of only two players in the history of the sport to win world titles in three different age categories. He captured gold at the U-18 World Cup in 2018, the U-23 World Cup in 2023, and the senior World Cup in 2022.

"It's pretty honourable to be able to be part of those World Cups, especially playing in age groups and then coming back into the men's team," he said after helping his team clinch the first win at the WBSC Men's Softball World Cup Finals 2025 in Prince Albert.

"It's always something I look forward to. As Australians, we strive for a great environment, and once you're in that environment, it's kind of like a family. So I'm pretty happy to be a part of it."

This is James’ second World Cup in Prince Albert. In 2018, he was one of the youngest players on the U-18 Australian team that lifted the trophy.

"It was a different experience, obviously, being so young. I probably still hadn't matured enough. Obviously, now I'm a bit older, but being around all the 18-year-olds in that age group, it kind of helped me grow my mentality a lot faster and just learning the plays a bit quicker and just a bit more faster pace of the game," he remembered.

With his wealth of experience on the international stage, James believes Australia’s system is second to none. "We work really hard on our culture and being there for everyone because, it takes 16 people to win a World Cup. So all the coaches and us all band together and we work really hard in that culture aspect," he added.

Softball has taken the third baseman around the world - but never alone. His family has been present at every World Cup he’s played. His parents, Alan and Antoninette, and his sister Kiera, are in Prince Albert cheering him on.

"It's really good to have them in the crowd. It's just a friendly face. You see up there, kind of helps calm the nerves, but they've been supportive since I was a little kid, so I can take my hat off to them."

Antoninette, Riley’s mother, remembers the very beginning.

“He started playing when he was two years old. I had signed my daughter up, and Riley wanted to play too,” she recalled.

“At first they weren’t taking kids that young, but they said, ‘Oh well, might as well sign him up.’ So he started playing t-ball.”

“He was actually left-handed. He wanted his own glove, for a left-handed throw, but all the gloves were right-handed. So now he throws right-handed - and still bats lefty.”

Talking about Wednesday's game against the Dominican Republic, Riley said it was good to bounce back after Tuesday's loss to USA.

"It took a lot of us to group together and it showed today when we put the runs on the board. We got the sticks moving and that's what we kind of needed as a team, so it was good."

He delivered a clutch hit to put Australia ahead. What was his approach at that key moment?

"Kind of just there for the team," he said.

"Everything that we can all do, we just band together. It takes 16 people to win a World Cup, so it's just doing our small jobs, banding together, trying to put the ball in play and move runners around," he added.

He also had high praise for teammate and star pitcher Jack Besgrove, who bounced back with a strong performance on the mound.

"I've been with Bezzy for a while now. I've watched him grow into the person he is now. He's obviously great on the mound, but as a team person, he's always there for you. He puts pretty much his heart on the line and that's kind of what you want from your pitcher.

“Personally, I wouldn't want anyone else on the mound. He's unreal,” Riley said.

Supplied by Mackay Softball

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Mackay’s Riley James has cemented his place as a standout softball talent, helping Australia defend their 2022 world title in Canada and becoming one of the few players to win championships across three age levels. Photo supplied

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Mackay Road Runners Life Member and Club Asset Manager Andrew Short delivered another unforgettable afternoon with his signature Mystery Run, launched from the Mackay Surf Club. His cleverly written, cryptic course description was worthy of a wordsmith’s masterclass another legendary effort from the club stalwart.

Approximately 30 runners took part in the 6km and 10km events, enjoying new and previously unexplored terrain. Perfectly sunny and cool conditions made for ideal running weather, while the late-afternoon sea breeze added a little extra incentive to head for the finish line, and perhaps a warm refreshment.

Next Sunday’s social 5km and 10km run will commence from Bluewater Quay at 4pm to accommodate those travelling to the Airlie Beach Running Festival. Best wishes to all locals participating in the event.

The club’s calendar continues with one of its most anticipated fixtures – the Eungella M-Test Open King and Queen of the Mountain (6.4km), alongside the Laura Pettifer Inspirational and Podiatry Mackay Junior King of the Mountain (2.6km). These are club championship events, offering members the chance to accrue points in both open and age-group categories.

Held in conjunction with the Torque Tyres & Trailer Spares 6.4km cycling event, this action-packed morning promises excitement for participants and spectators alike.

Importantly, all events are open to the wider community – not just club members. Schools, sports clubs, training groups, and individuals of all backgrounds are warmly encouraged to join. Runners can register online, with entries closing at 6pm on Saturday, 26 July. Cyclists can register separately through the Cycling Club, with entries also available on the morning of the event.

Race Day Information

Date: Sunday, 27 July
Start time: 7.00am sharp
Arrival: Please be at the Netherdale start line by 6.50am

For more details on running, contact Janelle on 0400 997 432 or Julie on 0429 441 133
For Cycling, contact Mark on 0439 131 362

Following the races, presentations and lucky draw prizes will be held at the historic Eungella Chalet, where breakfast will be available for purchase. Participants and supporters are encouraged to stay and enjoy the sights, sounds, and warm hospitality of the Eungella region.

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Kayla Waugh enjoyed the challenging 6km Mackay Surf Club Mystery run.
Kim Saron, Leanne Connor and Lauren Connor ecstatic with their 6km performances.
Craig Robinson enjoys a run with Mackay Road Runners before heading out of town for work this week.
Shane (left) and Hamish Donnollan easily handle the 10km Mackay surf Club Mystery run which included Mt Bassett.
(left to right standing) Carmel Mahon, Derek woods, Andrew Wallace and Stephen Oberg wish Levi Wallace (lying) all the best for next weekend’s Airlie Running Festival Marathon.
Len Howarth (right) congratulates Andrew Short on a mysterious run concept with a great course.
John Couldrey (left) and David Isbister executed a great 6km race plan. Photos supplied

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Future Stars Shine At Ruby North Competition In Mackay

Mackay was the heart of Queensland netball last weekend, as the Netball Queensland Board held its regional meeting in the lead-up to Round 3 of the Ruby North competition at the Mackay Multi-Sports Stadium.

The action-packed weekend brought together elite competition, community connection, and a shared vision for the future of regional netball.

Leanne Coddington, Chair of Netball Queensland, said the board’s visit to Mackay underscored how important it is to bring elite-level netball into the regions.

“It’s wonderful to be here in Mackay over this weekend to bring the Netball Queensland board into region,” Ms Coddington said.

“It’s really important to us, and this is the third year in a row that we have visited regional Queensland after Townsville and Toowoomba last year.

“To coincide our visit with the third round of the Ruby North competition is so exciting as well. I must thank Council very, very much for the support of the Monarchs team being included in that competition. It’s invaluable to have Council support.

“This competition is really important for regional athletes to be able to stay in region and perform at an elite level and progress their careers. And it’s not just for the players. There’s opportunities for coaching development, as well as umpires to get that experience too.”

She added that showcasing elite-level netball locally helps inspire the next generation.

“We can see that with Super Netball and how important it is for young players to look up to those athletes and see the potential and the opportunity.

“But I think the most important thing with Ruby North is that players get to stay at home. They get to stay in region, with their families, but also get the experience of playing.”

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed the visiting board and celebrated the opportunity Ruby North brings to local talent and facilities.

“We’ve got approximately 1,700 registered players in netball now in our region,” he said.

“That’s a significant sport and we punch way above our weight when it comes to these sorts of sports.

“It’s great to have Ruby North back and it’s great to have the Monarchs in the Ruby North competition.

“It’s about giving that pathway for young people who want to get into really serious sport, and this is a great pathway.”

Kate Davies, CEO of Netball Queensland, said netball is thriving in Mackay thanks to grassroots passion and strong regional partnerships.

“Netball is such a great sport. It’s for all ages, it’s for all abilities. It’s for fun, for social, but there’s also some great competitive elements as well,” she said.

“We’ve seen netball in Mackay growing.

“I really want to acknowledge the incredible efforts of Mackay Netball Association, the club administration and the volunteers that support this club, they’re the reason why we’re seeing netball grow in this region.”

Davies also highlighted the role of BHP and BMA, founding partners of the Queensland Futures Academy, in helping develop homegrown elite athletes.

“That partnership means that we have academy players here in Mackay who can stay and live and train and be coached here in their hometown before they have to leave for the big smoke, if they want to take their netball career further.”

Local player Shaylah Pursehouse, who has been playing for over a decade, said being part of the Mackay netball community has been an empowering journey.

“I’ve been playing for at least 10 years…since I was seven or eight years old,” Shaylah said.

“It’s a really great sport because it’s just such a good community, especially in Mackay.”

“You make new friends, older, younger – it’s very engaging, you get fit, and there’s so many benefits.”

She said staying regional hasn’t held her back, in fact, it’s added value.

“Regional is really important, I find. Compared to the big cities, it’s just much more one-on-one, and it pushes you to work harder.”

With two undefeated teams heading into the round, the crowd turnout at Mackay’s home court was strong, proving that netball is not only growing in the region, but thriving.

Netball Queensland’s board visit and Ruby North Round 3 turned Mackay into a regional netball powerhouse last weekend, celebrating local talent, elite competition, and strong community support. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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By Amanda Wright

One of Mackay’s most versatile riders is showing no signs of slowing down, as 12-year-old cycling talent Camden Brownsey backed up his national mountain biking triumphs with two dominant wins on the tarmac at the 2025 Queensland Road State Titles in Bundaberg.

The rising star proved he’s just as fierce on the bitumen as he is on the bush trails, securing gold in both the Under-13 criterium and road race — an impressive double that cements Camden as one of the brightest young prospects on two wheels in Queensland.

Known for his technical finesse in mountain biking, Camden’s road victories come just months after he stunned the field at the GWM Mountain Bike National Championships in Victoria, where he claimed top honours in both the XCO (Olympic Cross Country) and XCC (Short Track) events.

But it’s not just medals driving this young gun — it’s a love of the ride.

“Camden thoroughly enjoys all forms of riding,” said his mother, Michelle Brownsey.

“He loves the technical side of mountain biking but also enjoys social road rides and road and criterium races.”

His next challenge will come close to home, with the 2025 AusCycling Mountain Bike Cross Country Championships to be held at Rowallan Park in Mackay — hosted by his home club, MAD MTB.

Meanwhile, experience and endurance were on show in the Masters division, with Mackay Cycles owner Kyle Marwood flying the flag high for the region. A perennial contender on the state scene, Marwood powered to victory in the Masters 2 criterium.

Despite being in the Masters ranks, Marwood remains one of Queensland’s top performers in the peloton, blending race smarts with relentless strength. Even better, this year he was joined on the start line by his son, Oaklan, in what was a special father-son outing for the Mackay Cycling Club.

Oaklan finished a commendable 9th in the U13 criterium and also took on the road race and time trial events, gaining valuable race experience in elite company.

Also earning podium finishes for the Mackay region were Scott Bennett, who took silver in the U13 road race and bronze in the criterium, and Max Teague, who impressed with third in the U15 road race and consistent top-six finishes across all events.

With competitors spread across all age categories and disciplines — from criterium to road race to time trial — the Mackay Cycling Club and Mackay & District Mountain Bike Club both had plenty to celebrate from the weekend’s racing.

As the season continues, Mackay’s riders are proving they can climb, sprint, and grind it out with the best in the state — and sometimes, as Camden Brownsey is showing, the best in the nation.

Mackay Cycling Club Results

Criterium
Masters Men 6
11th - Alan MCMENAMIN (Mackay CC)
Masters Men 2
1st - Kyle MARWOOD (Mackay CC)
Junior Under 13
1st - Camden BROWNSEY (Mackay & District MTB Club)
3rd - Scott BENNETT (Mackay CC)
9th - Oaklan MARWOOD (Mackay CC)
Junior Under 15
6th - Max TEAGUE (Mackay & District MTB Club)

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Road Race
Masters Men 2
5th - Kyle MARWOOD (Mackay CC)
Masters Men 4
6th - Geoff BENNETT (Mackay CC)
Masters Men 6
6th - Andy PATE (Mackay CC)
Junior Under 15
3rd - Max TEAGUE (Mackay & District MTB Club)
Junior U13
1st - Camden BROWNSEY (Mackay & District MTB Club)
2nd - Scott BENNETT (Mackay CC)
11th Oaklan MARWOOD (Mackay CC)

Individual Time Trial
Masters Men 6
6th - Alan MCMENAMIN (Mackay CC)
Junior Under 15
5th - Max TEAGUE (Mackay & District MTB Club)
Junior Under 15
6th - Oaklan MARWOOD (Mackay CC)

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Double gold and all smiles — Camden Brownsey celebrates his state titles in both the criterium and road race at the Queensland Road State Championships. Photo supplied

Full speed and laser focus — Camden Brownsey powers through the corners during the Under-13 criterium in Bundaberg. Photo credit: Steve Richter

Top step again — Camden Brownsey stands proud on the podium after claiming back-to-back victories at the 2025 QLD Road State Titles. Photo supplied

Master's class in motion — Mackay Cycles’ Kyle Marwood storms through the criterium course to secure a state title in the Master's Men 2 division. Photo credit: Steve Richter

Oaklan Marwood showed grit and determination in the U13s, proudly continuing the Marwood family legacy on two wheels. Photo credit: Steve Richter

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More than 70 young golfers teed off at the Mackay Golf Club last weekend for the 2025 Gardian Mackay Junior Open, a popular event on the regional junior golf calendar.

The tournament saw competitors take part across four divisions – 3-hole, 6-hole, 9-hole, and full 18-hole rounds for both boys and girls. The event continues to grow in size and prestige, drawing promising talent from across the region.

The club extended its thanks to long-time event sponsor Joe Rickman and Gardian, as well as We R Golf Centre Mackay, for their continued support of junior development in the game.

2025 Gardian Mackay Junior Open Champions

• 3-Hole Boys – Grayson Jollie
• 3-Hole Girls – Phoebe Berginey
• 6-Hole Boys – Hunter Simpson
• 6-Hole Girls – Penelope Delahunty
• 9-Hole Boys – Jasper Godfrey
• 9-Hole Girls – Chorus Andrews
• Girls Junior Open Winner – Amara Aston
• Boys Junior Open Winner – Dallas Douglas

Congratulations to all competitors on a successful day played in great spirit.

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More than 70 young golfers showcased their skills across multiple divisions at the 2025 Gardian Mackay Junior Open, with standout performances and growing regional support highlighting the event’s continued success. Photo credit: Mackay Golf Club Inc.

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Jennifer-Lee’s Journey Of Talent, Tenacity And Tutus

At just 14 years old, Jennifer-Lee Houseman is showing that regional youth can lead with talent, creativity, and compassion. Whether she’s flipping on horseback, striking a pose in front of the camera, or rallying support for sick kids, Jennifer-Lee is making her mark across multiple fields, including sport, fashion, and community service.

Since joining Sarina Christian Vaulting in February, the Mackay teen has soared to success in equestrian vaulting, earning podium finishes in both barrel and horseback divisions. At her first-ever competition, the Interschool State Championships in Toowoomba, she placed second in both events.

Shortly after, she went on to claim first place in both her individual divisions and first in her squad compulsories at the Queensland State Championships.

“We barely had space to put all the awards in the car,” she laughed.

Despite limited experience with horses, Jennifer-Lee adapted quickly to different competition mounts, many of which were larger than the ones she trains on.

“I had like five minutes on the horse just to get used to her… they walk differently because they’re bigger.”

Vaulting, she says, has given her a rare kind of freedom.

“It’s the first time I’ve felt free… I can show my personality while doing something I love, with animals, dance, and acro all combined.”

Jennifer-Lee is now preparing to represent Queensland at the National Vaulting Championships in Sydney this October, proudly flying the flag for Mackay.

That same month, she will head to Melbourne as a finalist in the Ultimate International Miss of Australia pageant, a national platform that celebrates confidence, kindness, and leadership.

Winners will represent Australia at the international event in the United States in 2026, though the opportunity hinges on her family’s pending permanent residency application.
“It’s a lot… we’ve emigrated from South Africa, so it’s tougher for us, but we don’t want to tame this achieving soul,” her mother said.

In addition to her pageant and vaulting achievements, Jennifer-Lee is a vibrant face in the local creative scene. She recently featured in PhotoSwap Mackay, a local photoshoot initiative that encourages self-expression and confidence.

“It was such a fun day,” she said.

“Everyone was so supportive.”

She will also feature in the upcoming Wear It Wild PhotoSwap at Cape Hillsborough, where wearable art, nature, and creativity collide.

"I'm making something awesome," she added.

One of Jennifer-Lee’s proudest achievements is The Tutu Challenge, a grassroots movement she started to raise funds for the Starlight Children’s Foundation.

“The Tutu Challenge started with a simple idea: wear a tutu, make someone smile. Now, it’s about making a real difference in the lives of kids in hospital.”

Her major 2025 fundraiser, TUTU’s Convoy for Charity, is set to take place in August and includes two fun-filled days: a Cars in Costume Scavenger Hunt on August 9, and a Bikes in Tutus Convoy on August 10.

The event will launch from Casu Jacks in Mackay, with mystery stops, music, and prizes for best dressed, most creative team, and wildest wheels. All participants will receive a limited edition 2025 Steel TUTU Badge.

“Come in your car. Come on your bike. Just come, and do it for the kids,” Jennifer-Lee says.

She is currently seeking sponsors to support her travel to both national competitions and help bring the Tutu Convoy to life. Businesses will receive recognition across events, social media, and press coverage.

To get involved, contact: missjlee.charity@gmail.com or follow her journey: @MissJLee – Ultimate International Miss Australia

“It doesn’t take much to make someone smile,” she says.

“Sometimes, all it takes is a tutu.”

At 14, Jennifer-Lee Houseman is excelling in vaulting, pageantry, and charity, inspiring her community through talent and kindness. Photos supplied

Jennifer-Lee Houseman with her recent equestrian vaulting trophies, earned at her first two major competitions. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Made of 98 per cent silica, the sand at Whitehaven Beach is so pure it never gets hot under your feet. Even the scientists are unsure how it came to be so pristine, but The Sinkers Masters Swim club isn’t asking any questions, they’re just planning to host the Whitehaven Open Water swim on the King’s Birthday long weekend, October 5th 2025.

Choose from a 500m, 1km or 2km swim with medals to be presented on Whitehaven Beach.

Come prepared for a day of fun in the sun topped off by the after party at Northerlies. A courtesy bus is available to and from any location in Airlie.

Discounted accommodation is available at Club Croc Airlie Beach.

Event Details:

• Full-day return trip from Shute Harbour to Whitehaven Beach
• Enjoy 4 hours of beach time at stunning Whitehaven
• Registration opens at 6:00am | Return by 3:00pm
• Lunch included
• Official event shirts available for purchase

Open to all swimmers aged 18+.
Registrations close 28 September 2025.
Entries are capped – secure your spot early!

There’s no shade on Whitehaven and facilities are limited, so think of it as part swim meet and part tropical expedition.  Pack smart, swim strong and get ready for an epic day in Paradise.

Information and registration details via the Whitehaven Open Water Swim Facebook page.

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The Sinkers Masters Swim Club will host the Whitehaven Open Water Swim on October 5, 2025, offering 500m, 1km, and 2km swim events at the iconic Whitehaven Beach as part of a full-day experience in tropical paradise. Photos supplied

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BRIDGE

Mackay Novice Pairs 2025

Sixteen Novice Pairs competed for the title of Mackay Novice Pairs 2025 and red points on Sunday. It was fantastic to see so many brave new players participating in the event. Although scary playing in competitions at first, it’s like any sport or game, the more we play, the better we get!

Congratulations to Mary Cruickshank and Geoff Cowan taking out first place with Annie Lynch and Ann Whitmore as runners up.

Weekly Results

Monday 7 June 2025 –- 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 2nd Noel Bugeia / Geoffrey Patterson
3rd Jayne Johnstone / Eric Goodchild 3rd Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane

Tuesday Evening 8 July 2025 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
3rd Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris 4th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright

Wednesday 9 July 2025 – Week 13 of 25 NWP - Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
3rd Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell 3rd Sandra Morris / Jan Harris.

Thursday Evening 10 July 2025 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Martin Pearce / Chris Meyers 2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 11 July 2025 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd Debra Goodchild / Lorna Shuttlewood 2nd Victor Mason / Josie Crowley
3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Geoffrey Patterson

Saturday 12 July 2025 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
3rd Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris 4th Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
5th Geoff Taylor / Robert Carless 6th Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

Saturday 12 July 2025 – Mackay Novice Pairs 2025 – Red Points
1st Mary Cruickshank / Geoff Cowan 2nd Annie Lynch / Ann Whitmore
3rd Sue Meyer Miller / Debbie Ludkin 4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
5th Simon Barnes / Rod Miles 6th Lynne O’Neill / Karen Caldwell

Contributed by Joy Block

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President Frances with 2025 Novice Pair Winners Mary and Geoff

Novice Pairs Runners up Annie Lynch, Frances and Ann Whitmore

New participates Christine, Glen, Joy, Director Ian, Jayne & Debbie. Photos supplied

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Junior cricketers were back in action on Sunday for their first games after a few months off, and what a cracker of a day it was, with the sun shining and excitement all around!

There were two games running at both Walkerston and Harrup Park. Over at Harrup Park, the U17s hit the turf with intent. Matthew Logan lit up the scoreboard with a blistering 100 off just 61 balls before retiring not out! He was well supported by solid contributions from Casey Forrester and Aarnav Reehl, helping the team post a massive 251 from their 30 overs. The opposition fought hard, with Henry Tully showing resilience at the top, and middle-order starts from Ishan, Clancy, and Bodie, but they ultimately fell short by 104 runs.

The afternoon U15 match followed a similar storyline. Flynn Ryan (69) and Lachy Bath (55) both notched up half-centuries before retiring. Some sharp bowling from Lachy Ware(3/19) kept the total to a competitive 176. The Magenta team gave it a crack, but tight bowling – led by Rory Coburn (3/16) – restricted them and they finished 80 runs short.

Meanwhile, out at Walkerston, the vibes were high and the hospitality even better! With a few debutants taking the field, there was no shortage of energy and enthusiasm. All of the newbies got amongst it, taking wickets, holding catches, and getting runs on the board.

The highlight of the day? The birthday boy Hadley, who top-scored in his match and finished not out! After the game, the club celebrated with a rousing Happy Birthday singalong and some well-deserved Zooper Doopers

The club extends a big thank you to all parent volunteers who help make the days possible through scoring, umpiring and supporting from the sidelines.

Players are already looking forward to Round 2 next Sunday!

It’s never too late to join - Register via www.playhq.com

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Matthew Logan dazzled with the bat, hammering a rapid-fire century from just 61 deliveries before retiring unbeaten. Photo supplied

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With a feast of events on offer over the weekend, many Mackay Road Runners turned their focus to the prestigious Asics Gold Coast Running Festival, featuring a full marathon (42.2km), half marathon (21.1km), 10km, 5km, and 2km kids’ races across two days of competition.

The Gold Coast was bustling with thousands of runners of all ages and experience levels, many chasing personal bests while others proudly completed their first races.

Several Mackay athletes tackled extraordinary challenges, with Paul MacKenzie, Corey Gould, Chris Brodie, and Brenda Windsor taking on the gruelling “double marathon” – a half marathon on Saturday, followed by the full marathon on Sunday – totalling an impressive 63.3 kilometres.

Mel Esau and Alana Knezevic both conquered their debut marathons in superb fashion, finishing in 4 hours 4 minutes and 3 hours 27 minutes respectively. Meanwhile, MacKenzie, Gould, and Brodie also added the 10km and 5km events to their schedules, with Gould even jumping into the 2km kids’ race for a light-hearted finish.

Paul MacKenzie posted outstanding results across all events, completing the double marathon in a combined time of 4:37:43 (half marathon: 1:25:57, full marathon: 3:11:45), along with a 42:48 in the 10km and a 20:34 in the 5km. MacKenzie said he enjoyed the challenge and was “feeling good, not too tired – just a little fatigued by the final event, the marathon... understandably!”

Also among the standout performers was Mick Vivian, continuing his fine form with an exceptional marathon time of 2:47:47. Other strong marathon performances came from Kay Nyenuh (3:24:39), Russell O’Hara (3:40:58), and local stalwarts Tim Magoffin and Matt Stevens.

In the junior ranks, Malachi Nyenuh impressed in the under-10s category, clocking a swift 20:57 in the 5km to secure sixth place in his age group. Adam Knezevic also ran a consistent 10km, finishing in 50:52 at a steady five-minute-per-kilometre pace.

Locally, the club’s Bluewater Quay Social Run drew a strong turnout despite humid and overcast conditions. Ross McDonnell led the field in the 5km event, with Judy Zahn the first female across the line. In the 10km, Ashley Miles and Andrew Short ran together and tackled the demanding Mt Bassett climb before finishing in sync.

A special thanks went to long-time club supporter and timekeeping expert Rohan Miles and his family, who once again provided invaluable assistance despite facing technical challenges on the day.

The club's next event, a 4pm Mystery Run, will take place this Sunday, with the location and details to be confirmed via Facebook and email during the week.

Club Captain and Life Member Jim Ford continues to offer weekly track sessions each Wednesday at 5.30pm at the Aquatic & Recreation Complex (ARC) in Ooralea. The sessions are free, with a $4 facility entry fee, and are open to runners of all abilities looking to improve speed, endurance, and recovery in a supportive, structured environment.

Gold Coast Marathoners who competed in all events over the weekend inc 42.2km, 21.2km, 10k, 5km with their silverware (left to right) Corey Gould (who also did the 2km); Chris Brodie and Paul MacKenzie (Below image by On The Run) Photos supplied

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Kay Nyenuh (centre) on his way to a 3hr 24 min marathon. (image by Steven Hayles)
Congratulations to Mel Esau completing her first Marathon in 4hrs 4 min at the prestigious Gold Coast Running Festival. (image by Steven Hayles)
Steven Hayles at the Gold Coast Kirra parkrun (image by Emily Hayles).
Mackay Road Runners legendary veteran runners (left to right) - Col Hardy, Judy Zahn and Stuart Sprott.
Approximately thirty runners and supporters had a great time at the Mackay Bluewater Quay social 5k, 10k run whilst a bevy of local runners were tackling the Asics Gold Coast Running Festival 42k, 21k, 10k, 5k and kids events.
The Miles family in support Ashley Miles whilst he’s out on the 10km course.
Jo Hughes joined past Mackay Road Runner, Karen Baker for a steady 5km before Karen leaves town next weekend.
Jeff Pearce and Kayla Waugh with timekeeper Rohan Miles (seated) whilst he arranges a test run on the results systems.

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The club watched another amazing game of competition bowls between two of its best players, Ann Smith and Brenda Trannore, both competing in the Club B Grade Singles Final.

The game had everything going for it: skill, patience, and great nerves to say the least. Both ladies had the same score going into the last couple of ends. Brenda took the honours and once again was very gracious in her win.

This win made her one of the club’s most decorated bowlers for 2025, for her wins in both the Club Championship Singles played two weeks ago, and now the Club B Singles.

Congratulations also went to Ann for the patience and skill she brought to the game that day.

This event had not occurred in the club since 1969, when Agnes Orr won both these competitions and went on to win the Club Championship Singles another 19 times.

Congratulations were extended to Brenda from all her friends and members of the North Mackay Bowls Club. A super achievement, and now on to the District Championship in Airlie Beach at a later date.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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B Singles winner: Brenda Trannore

Ann Smith and Brenda Trannore - B Singles Finalists. Photos supplied

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OUTRIGGING

Sunset Bay paddlers made the journey to Townsville over the weekend of June 19–20 to compete in Round 3 of the North Queensland Zone Grand Prix, tackling events ranging from 500m sprints and 8km marathons to a gruelling 41km changeover marathon.

To say the club returned on cloud nine is an understatement — they came home with a carload of medals and even bigger smiles.

Coaches Scotty Macgroaty and Justin Davies made the most of the weekend’s event line-up, giving all 24+ paddlers the opportunity to compete across multiple divisions.

It’s hard to single out just one race or crew, as the standouts were many. But few could miss the beaming faces of the Senior Master Men’s crew, who hadn’t fielded a competitive team in more than five years. From Race number 1, they made their mark — taking gold in both the 500m sprint and the 8km marathon.

As conditions worsened throughout the day with rising winds and swell, Sunset Bay paddlers dug deep. The OC1 and OC2 events saw the club collect a further swag of medals across multiple age divisions.

Sunday’s feature was the iconic 41km Magnetic Island changeover marathon. Sunset Bay fielded two full crews of 10 paddlers. Unfortunately, one crew suffered a major setback after a support boat damaged their canoe during the first changeover on Magnetic Island. The vessel had to be patched up with duct tape just to return to the mainland.

The mishap fuelled the second crew’s determination, and they powered ahead to claim gold in the Golden Master Mixed division with an impressive time of 4 hours and 21 minutes, finishing 17th overall out of 30 teams.

Come and Try Days will be available soon — stay up to date with Sunset Bay on Facebook for further details.

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Sunset Bay paddlers returned from the North Queensland Grand Prix in Townsville with a swag of medals, standout performances, and golden memories. Photos supplied

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