Basketball is thriving in the Mackay region after St Patrick’s College brought home the Boys and Girls trophies from the Champion Basketball School of Queensland tournament on the Gold Coast.

With Mackay coaching guru Jamiey Douvendans at the helm, the College showcased its current crop of emerging talent with skilful performances at the prestigious event at Coomera Indoor Sports Centre.

Regarded as the premier school basketball tournament in Queensland, St Patrick’s trophy double in the Senior Secondary Schools Division Two categories is a huge fillip for the sport in the Mackay area and major boost for the Meteors and Meteorettes franchises.

Douvendans and assistant Rachel McKenzie praised the efforts of the gold medal-winning St Patrick’s Boys and Girls squads who produced top-class displays to finish the tournament undefeated.

In the Senior Boys final, St Patrick’s toppled Cleveland District State High School 66-61 with Meteors’ NBL1 North rookies Amarco Doyle (29 points) and Max Cain (18) leading the way.

St Patrick’s won all seven preliminary fixtures including victories over Palm Beach-Currumbin State High (104-27), Saint Stephens College (98-63) and Varsity College (75-70) in the finals series to top their Pool.

Other players to shine were Archie Howell, Baxter Nosworthy, Ben Devitt, Brock Crocker, Brody Robinson, Joshua Saunders and Seb Stehbens.

Emerging 14 year old guard Maggie Thorburn stamped herself a future star with a mercurial performance for St Patrick’s in the Senior Girls trophy decider.

Thorburn top scored with 18 points in the Mackay school’s decisive 56-43 victory over St James College with Meteorettes centre Charli Bliss contributing eleven points.

It was a mature showing by Thorburn, a Queensland North Under 16s representative, who will also line up for St Patrick’s at the Champion Basketball School of Queensland Junior tournament next month.

Promising Meteorettes guards Hannah Jensen (11 points) and Mackensie Brown also demonstrated their skills along with Amelia Crouch, Jessica Harris, Mia Young and Ruby Crouch.

St Patrick’s topped their Pool on 21 points from seven victories with Matthew Flinders Anglican School, Trinity College Beenleigh and St James College finishing on 19 points each.

In the finals series the Mackay hoopers eclipsed Somerset College (69-22), St Columban’s College (65-33) and Mansfield State High School (59-37).

By Chris Karas

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Mackay became the epicenter of Queensland's athletic excellence as the Athletics North Queensland 2023 Championships unfolded at the ARC, drawing athletes from far and wide. The event saw a dazzling display of talent, with Mackay athletes well represented across the podiums of the special trophy races.

The Jeff Buchanan Memorial 100m event delivered one of the standout moments of the championship. Julie Brims, a World Champion Masters Athlete, took the spotlight with an electrifying performance. It is thought that she may have even broken her own age group world record on the Mackay track. Aurelia Boyd secured silver and Aviva Damjanovic proudly claimed bronze.

The men's Jeff Buchanan Memorial 100m event saw Sam McArthur sprinting his way to victory, leaving the crowd in awe. Taige Hooper clinched silver, while Damon Brown showcased his speed to earn the bronze.

The John Campbell Miles 100 Yards & QLD Championship added to the local triumph. Kiera McGregor emerged as the champion, while Mikayla Webb, a representative of the region, secured a commendable second place, and Kaitlin Bitossi captured bronze.

In the Hector Hogan 100 Yards & QLD Championship, Sam McArthur continued his dominance, securing the gold. Abeli Mukamba claimed the silver, and Damon Brown's tenacity earned him the bronze.

Mackay's Oliver Rule showcased remarkable endurance as he claimed the inaugural Benita Willis 10000m Shield. The gold medal was a testament to his dedication and training. Jared Mackie secured the silver, while Murray Wonnocott won bronze.

The Queensland Mile Championships witnessed another Rule family triumph. Toby Rule, the younger sibling, clinched the gold, demonstrating the family's athletic prowess. Nicholas Fogale secured the silver, and Liam Mumford, yet another Mackay athlete, claimed the bronze, capping off a stellar performance for the region.

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Jeff Buchanan Memorial 100m

John Campbell Miles 100 Yards

Benita Willis 10000m Shield won by Oliver Rule

Toby Rule won the Queensland Mile Championships, with Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox presenting the sash. Photo credit: Athletics North Queensland

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Mackay’s Harbour Beach is making way for redefined coastal living with exclusive, upscale beachfront townhomes under construction in response to market demand for low-maintenance living by the sea.

‘The Beach Collective’ features seven luxury townhomes by national developer Urbex, in collaboration with Bold Architecture that pays homage to the coastal surrounds and is a first for the Mackay region.

“We are seeing a shift in lifestyle demand across Queensland, as an increasing number of buyers prioritise low maintenance living and convenience in their home search. Consequently, there has been a surge in the popularity of townhomes, duplexes, and apartments,” Urbex Realty General Manager, Craig Covacich, said.

The Beach Collective will form part of the Sol Precinct, Urbex’s Dunes Harbour Beach development, and will offer freehold two-level architecturally designed homes with convenience, functionality and comfort front of mind.

“We are introducing a distinctive dimension of coastal living in the Mackay region; revisiting a two-storey build, expanding the living spaces to suit low maintenance living whilst enhancing the comfort and relaxed luxury that is expected of a beachfront home. This innovative approach caters to meet the demand of buyers who desire a luxurious home without the associated maintenance.

“The added bonus that was a non-negotiable for the development is the connectivity to open space. We have really emphasised the recreational nodes featured within these homes and they truly highlight the beach as the backyard playground buyers want.

“The chance to acquire beachfront property is extremely rare due to limited land availability along the South East coastline, and with the added benefit of being beachside and within 7km of Mackay’s CBD with established amenities, this presents a very rare opportunity for beachside living.”

Each of the seven homes is absolute beachfront and features ocean view lines of the Coral Sea, with unique high-level finishes, luxury appointments, state-of-the-art appliances, with a four- bedroom, three-bathroom configuration, indoor and outdoor living on both levels with alfresco spaces, low maintenance landscaped areas and a plunge pool for maximum comfort.

Construction of two out of the seven townhomes is underway, with Urbex delivering the project.

“We know consumer confidence in new builds is low, and as a result, Urbex will manage the build for each buyer to mitigate any potential risk in increasing construction and supply costs.”

Located 7 kilometres from Mackay’s CBD, Dunes Harbour Beach boasts kilometres of

beachfront with spacious homesites blended within areas of native bushland. Over 30 per cent of the development is committed to open space, conservation and parkland to ensure Dunes remains a pristine destination.

With uninterrupted views of the Coral Sea, exclusive beach access, and close integration to the upcoming tourism, dining and retail hub, The Beach Collective is currently under construction and interested  buyers  are  encouraged  to  register  their  interest  by  visiting

https://dunesharbourbeach.com.au/  for more information.

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Results for week ending 24 September 2023

Tuesday Evening 19 September 2023 – 3 Table Howell One Winner Green Points

1st FRANCES BROWN - SANDRA MORRIS 2nd HELEN VAN DEN BROEK - TEX SHEEDY

3rd DIANE MORGAN - ERIC LEIVESLEY

Wednesday 20 September 2023 – 10 Table Teams Under State/Over State Green Points

E/W

1st JOY BRIUNETTE / DON POOLE/ IAN CRUICKSHANK / MARY CRUICKSHANK 2nd SUSAN ROSS / RICHARD WIX / VICKI HOWARD / JANINE RODGERS

3rd   IAN GASKELL / KATH POOLE / MONICA DARLEY / CAROL GASKELL 4th NOEL SAUNDERS / DAVID TING / MING TING / TED CULLINAN

Thursday Evening 21 September 2023 – 3 Table Howell One Winner Green Points

1st FRANCES BROWN - ANN WHITMORE 2nd KEN SEANIGER - ROBERT CARLESS

3rd RICHARD WIX - TEX SHEEDY

Friday 22 September 2023 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S                                                     E/W

1st EDWARD KLIESE - NANCY WIX 1st NANCY MARTIN - KATH POOLE

2nd TEX SHEEDY - JANELLE CONROY 2nd GEOFF TAYLOR - JOY ROBINSON

3rd MONICA DARLEY - GWEN LIDDELL 3rd ERIC GOODCHILD - SANDY PATTERSON

4th DIANE STOKES - MARIE MCGUIRE

Saturday 23 September 2023 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st JOY ROBINSON - KEN SEANIGER 1st JANET HANSEN - DIANE MORGAN

2nd GEOFF TAYLOR - NANCY WIX 2nd TEX SHEEDY - ERIC LEIVESLEY

3rd ERIC GOODCHILD - DEBRA GOODCHILD 3rd CHRISTINE NICE - FAYE WRIGHT

4th FRANCES BROWN - ALAN BROWN 4th HELEN VAN DEN BROEK - JOY BRUNETTE

5th ROBERT CARLESS - JANELLE CONROY 5th TED CULLINAN - NOEL SAUNDERS

Sunday 24 September 2023 – 5 Table Mitchell for Novice players Green Points

N/S E/W

1st JAIDEN TAYLOR - ROLAND TAYLOR 1st TEX SHEEDY - LYNNE O'NEILL

2nd ANN WHITMORE - SANDY PATTERSON 2nd MARY ROSE RAMSDEN - TED CULLINAN

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Faye Wright and Chris Nice with Director Geoff Taylor. Faye and Chris were first in Category B

Barometer Pairs

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The Mackay Tennis Association celebrated its centenary in style earlier this month, hosting a grand dinner with over 160 attendees, including the evening's keynote speaker, Mr Rob Barty, proud father of former World Number One and multiple grand slam champion, Ashleigh Barty.

Gathering for a night of nostalgia, celebration and appreciation for 100 years of Tennis in Mackay, the event brought together tennis enthusiasts, local dignitaries and special guests, including current club Patron Mayor Greg Williamson, State Member for Mackay Mrs Julieanne Gilbert and Tennis Qld CEO Mr Kim Kachel.

Attendees enjoyed dinner on ‘centre court’, which provided a novel and unique setting for the evening. Several past players and long-standing members of the association shared their fond memories and experiences of playing tennis in Mackay.

One of the highlights of the evening was the tennis memorabilia auction, arranged by the club alongside the efforts of the Barty family and Tennis Qld. This impressive display included rackets and signed pieces from past and current Australian players, as well as items from Ash Barty’s 2022 Australian Open win and a signed Rod Laver racket.

A unique event was the fashion show, where members paraded varying tennis fashions from the last century, illustrating not only how the game has evolved but also how fashion trends have influenced the sport. The runway showcased tennis equipment and attire from modest, ankle-length dresses, long trousers and wooden rackets of the early 1900s to the colourful and contemporary outfits of today's players.

Mayor Williamson also took the opportunity to commend the MTA for its remarkable contribution to the community.  

“This association is, and always has been, completely volunteer run, which in itself is a remarkable achievement,” Mayor Williamson said.

“They’ve still got a strong membership and have players young and old on the courts – it really is one of those sports that caters to all ages.”

Mr Barty, shared his perspective on the journey of his daughter Ash. He shared invaluable lessons that Ash learned during her childhood and career, which helped foster a mindset that not only shaped her as a tennis player, but as a role model both on and off the court.

The centenary dinner served as a fitting tribute to a century of tennis excellence, camaraderie and community spirit in the Mackay region.

Contributed by Wes Rose

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Current MTA committee members: Ben, Ann, Sue, Joyce, Brett and Ken

Dinner on centre court

Mr and Mrs Wallace, Rob Barty, Maxine Richardson (Auctioneer), Kim Kachel (TQ CEO) with a signed Ash Barty shirt. Photos supplied

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Swimming enthusiasts, mark your calendars! An exciting spectacle is about to unfold at the Arc this weekend. Swimming North Queensland and Central Queensland Swimming are teaming up to present an action-packed two-day event that promises to showcase the finest swimmers from both regions. The associations are inviting the public to come along for a fun-filled day of full-on swimming at the ARC from 23 – 24 September to witness the best of the best swimmers in both regions swim it out for the inaugural trophy over two days.  

Picture it as a swimming State of Origin, where power, strength, and stamina collide in the pool. The energy is contagious, and the team spirit is nothing short of electrifying. Bring the whole family, and let's cheer on our swimming stars as they chase their dreams in the water.

It’s also a great way for kids to see what swimming is about, to inspire the next generation.

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Gear up for North Queensland's largest senior sporting carnival when Mackay Rangers FC hosts its 40th anniversary 8-a-side tournament.

This year's Carnival will be staged from Saturday September 30 to Sunday October 1 at the club’s home base at Eric Homan Park and promises to be an exhilarating weekend of football action.

From Brisbane to Cairns, teams are gearing up to participate in the annual event - each bringing their own distinct flair and passion for the game.

With unique rules that include no offside and special points awarded not just for goals, the Carnival guarantees non-stop action and fervent competition for both men and women plus $6000 in prize money.

The Carnival also features a Penalty Shootout competition with raffles drawn throughout.

On the Saturday night the Two Māoris band come down to perform and put on a show after an action-packed day of Carnival fixtures.

Come along and make sure to spend the night reminiscing from 6.30pm to 10.30pm.

For inquiries or support contact Andrew Susani (Carnival Co-ordinator) at Andrews@coveng.com or Liam Hutcheon (Senior Co-ordinator) at hutcho_94@hotmail.com.

More details can be found on Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/mkyrangersfc

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Mackay Rangers FC will host their 40th anniversary 8-a-side Carnival on September 30/October 1 with $6000 in prize money

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Mackay’s ARC is set for the highly anticipated North Queensland Athletics Championships, taking place from September 22-24. This event proudly upholds its reputation as Australia's largest regional athletics competition, serving as a key pathway for All Schools and Nationals qualifications.

The event lineup features engaging competitions like the Queensland 1-Mile Championships, along with the Hector Hogan and Campbell Miles 100 Yards Memorial races that also double as the Queensland 100-Yard Championships. Adding to the excitement is the introduction of the inaugural Benita Willis 10km Championships, open for all to register.

Expect to witness over 750 athletes and a dedicated workforce of 150 converge at the Mackay ARC in Ooralea, representing not only different parts of Queensland but also spanning across Australia and New Zealand.

Beyond showcasing athleticism, this gathering contributes approximately 1.6 million to the local economy, highlighting the quality of Mackay's top-notch facilities. The age of competitors will range from prep-aged children through to master’s competitors, some of whom will be in their 80’s and beyond.

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Athletes of all ages will be lacing up their running, jumping and throwing shoes to compete in this weekend’s North Queensland Championships hosted in Mackay at the ARC

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night finals September 12, 2023:

Division 1: Tibhar (Vince Boeske, Steven Whiting, Tim Shehan) d Joola (Andrew McHugh, Geoff Denman, Janice Kent) 6-4. Tim d Geoff 9, 10, -9, -6, 6.

Division 2: Stiga (Tony Bowman, Donna Abbott, Leo Gilbert) d Xiom (Duncan Sheridan, Duncan Treloar) 9-1. Tony d Duncan -6, -9, 7, 10, 5.

Division 3: Delta (Val Austin) d Alpha (Ollie Hamelink) 3-2. Val d Ollie -7, -8, 7, 2, 6.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures September 23, 2023:

Division 1:

Perch (Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Judi Hicks) d Bream (Doug Dungavell, Pam Joyce, Iris Grasso) 7-5. Doug d Charlie 9, -8, -7, 9, 9.

Barra (Steve Mathieson, Delma Knight, Helen Ware) d Tuna (Tony Bowman, John McGee, Ken Best) 7-5. Helen d Ken 8, -4, 9, -10, 7.

Trout (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Fredericksen, Bryan Marshall) d Cod (George Camilleri, Val Austin, Kevin Abbott) 7-5. Kevin d Bryan 8, 6, -9, -12, 5.

Division 2:

Scallop (Gerry Synnott, Steve Blackshaw, Cheryl Pearson) d Mussell (Kim Daffy, Fred Saliba, Allison Day) 7-5. Gerry/Cheryl d Kim/Allison 7, -8, 3, -12, 8.

Squid (Louise Gould, Sharon Muller, Thelma Caruana) d Lobster (Marie Taylor, Ian Dodds) 7-5. Louise d Ian -9, -9, 2, 5, 4.

Crab (John Hamelink, Madge Saunders, Bill Hey) d Prawn (Robyn Bushell, Cheryl Aprato) 9-3. Robyn d John -8, -6, 9, 7, 5.

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Division 1 Mackay table tennis season winners were Vince Boeske, Tim Shehan and Steven Whiting. Photo: Contributed

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Sarina State High School Rugby League Academy

Sarina State High School's Rugby League Academy has had an exceptional year, demonstrating both on-field success and a commitment to community involvement and mentorship. Led by Academy Coordinator and Head Coach Mr. Brett Watton, the academy's achievements in 2023 are a testament to their dedication and passion for the sport.

On-field Success

This year, the Sarina State High School Rugby League Academy soared to new heights in the local Mackay District Schools Rugby League Competition. With the 7/8, 9/10, and Opens teams all making it to the finals, the academy showcased its depth of talent and determination. These teams secured impressive finishes, with the 7/8 team claiming 4th place, the 9/10 team taking 3rd, and the Opens team finishing as runners-up.

Not content with local success alone, the academy clinched victory in the Mackay District NRL Trophy competition for both the Year 9/10 and Opens divisions. This triumph paved the way for an even grander achievement: winning the Capricornia competition for the Opens category. The academy's impressive journey continued as they secured a spot in the Opens North Queensland Grand Final for the NRL Trophy, ultimately finishing as the 2nd best team in North Queensland.

In addition to their male teams' success, the academy's Open Women's team also made their mark, finishing 3rd in the Karen Murphy Cup tournament. These accomplishments underscore the academy's whole school approach to developing rugby league talent.

Participation Beyond Local Competitions

The Sarina State High School Rugby League Academy was invited to participate in the inaugural season of the Mackay Cutters Cup, a prestigious competition featuring local top-tier talent. Despite facing tough competition, the academy proved their mettle by finishing 2nd, with their only defeat a close 24-10 loss against the formidable St. Patrick's Colleges’ A side.

The academy's influence extended beyond their own school as they celebrated NAIDOC Day by hosting an interschool women's and men's rugby league tournament. They also welcomed visiting academies from Rockhampton at the end of term 2, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie within the sport.

Mentorship and Leadership

One of the hallmarks of the Sarina State High School Rugby League Academy is its commitment to mentorship and leadership development. Senior students have taken on coaching roles for Year 7 students, offering guidance and support as part of their senior sport and recreation assessments. This mentorship not only enhances the skill development of younger players but also instills leadership qualities in the academy's senior members.

The academy has also been instrumental in shaping the leadership landscape of the school. Several students from the academy hold leadership roles on the Representative Council and serve as Sports house captains, exemplifying the character and discipline instilled by their involvement in rugby league.

Representative Honours and Rising Stars

The academy's commitment to nurturing rugby league talent goes beyond the school grounds. This year, the Sarina State High School Rugby League Academy proudly saw four of its members selected for Mackay District Rugby League Representative Teams. Their exceptional skills and dedication have earned them the opportunity to compete at a higher level.

But the achievements don't stop there. The academy's talent pipeline extends to the professional realm, with four students selected for the Junior Broncos Academy. This prestigious recognition highlights the potential of these young athletes to someday compete at the highest levels of rugby league.

Furthermore, an impressive seven students were selected for the QRL Rise Program, showcasing their immense promise in the sport. With multiple students vying for spots on upcoming Mackay Cutters Representative Teams, the academy's influence on the regional rugby league scene is undeniable.

Looking Ahead

The Sarina State High School Rugby League Academy continues to shine both on and off the field. Their dedication to fostering talent, promoting leadership, and engaging with the community sets a standard for excellence in school sports programs.

In the words of Mr. Brett Watton, "Our academy is not just about winning games; it's about developing good young men and women for our local community and instilling values that extend far beyond the field. We're immensely proud of what our students have achieved this year at Sarina State High School."

for 2024 enrolment information for the SSHS rugby league academy please contact Sarina State High School on schooladmin@sarinashs.eq.edu or 07 4943 8111.

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Earn Prime Minister’s XIII Representative Jumpers

Mackay Cutters rugby league trump cards Emma Manzelmann and China Polata have gained selection in the Women’s Australian Prime Minister’s XIII to play Papua New Guinea this Saturday at Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.

The exciting duo were recognised for their strong performances for the Cutters in this year’s BMD Women’s premiership and the North Queensland Cowboys in the NRLW competition.

Emerging hooker Manzelmann and classy utility back Polata helped the Cutters reach the BMD Premiership semi-finals this season before making their debuts with the new Cowboys franchise.

The Women’s Prime Minister’s XIII was selected with a view to giving some of the best up and coming players in the NRLW an opportunity alongside a number of established representative players.

Cowboys’ playmaker Tallisha Harden will captain the Australian team.

Harden is one of four North Queensland players named in the Prime Minister’s squad along with Manzelmann, Polata and forward Tiana Raftstrand-Smith.

All four were rewarded with Australian jumpers after skilful displays on the women’s rugby league scene.

Australia’s World Cup-winning Kangaroos and Jillaroos coaches Mal Meninga and Brad Donald believe the men’s and women’s Prime Minister XIII squads would provide opportunities for the players to both further their representative aspirations as well as experience something quite unique.

Meninga said the match would provide a selection guide ahead of the first ever Pacific Championships, across October and November.

This year’s event will also see the introduction of the Australian Schoolboys and Schoolgirls taking on the Junior Kumuls and Orchids respectively with support from the Australian Government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and the NRL.

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A ‘loyalty day’ was held on Wednesday, October 13 for the social bowls, a special event organised by Club President Lidia to allow free play for lady members, with 42 members in attendance for the event.

After playing a substantial 21 ends of bowls, the first winner was Margaret Armitage and second winner was Cheryle Corbett. The club was kindly donated two goodie baskets by Goosies Sport and Recreation Club for their special raffle.

Excited winners of Thursday’s games, in first place was Sue Roscoe, Maryann Bartolo and Sheryl Cuttriss. In second place was Lyn Maguire, Narell Schmidtke and Rondelle McDermott.

The District Triples Championships were held on the 15th at the Mackay Club, where the North Mackay Ladies were eventual winners of the event. Marie Bragg, Val DePinto and Nuggy Pratt dominated the green, achieving a 22-13 score.

President Lidia congratulated everyone who played and supported North Mackay Ladies club this week. A very enjoyable day was had by all those in attendance.

Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine

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Helen Fleming, Lidia McCarthy and Deb Mackenzie.

Lucky raffle winner, Margaret Armitage.

Val DePinto, Nuggy Pratt and Marie Bragg.

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On Saturday, September 9, the North Mackay Bowls club celebrated 75 years. The club was opened in 1948 with 97 male members and 20 female members. Since then, the club has gone from strength to strength, and now has 16 greens, a restaurant, coffee bar, a large poker machine room and two function rooms. Plans to expand the club further are under discussion.

The anniversary was celebrated by a free day for members, with the men playing two games of 12 ends followed by lunch and presentations. Martin Corr, from Bowls Queensland presented a plaque to bowls President, Eric Galletly to mark the occasion as well as presenting a gift to two life members who were playing, Ray McCarthy and Ron Bowers.

There was $500 in prize money and the first NMBC winner was the team of Peter Miller, lead, Tony Allsop, second, Les McDermott third with Chris Banney as skip.

The Board Chairman, Neal Blucher also made a speech outlining some of the club’s history. This was followed by an open bar tab and live entertainment. The women members joined in the celebrations later in the afternoon.

Contributed by Tony Allsop

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Chris Banney accepts the prize money from bowls president Eric Galletly on behalf of his team, Peter Miller, Tony Allsop and Les McDermott

Bowls President Eric Galletly outlines the days competition to members

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Mackay hosted the U16 Girls State Softball Championships from September 16-18, bringing together players, supporters, and officials from across Queensland. Ten teams from various regions, including Ipswich, Toowoomba, Coral Coast, Rockhampton, Redcliffe, Redlands, Townsville, Maryborough, Suncoast, and Mackay, competed fiercely for the championship. Redlands took out the competition playing Toowoomba in the final.

Mayor Greg Williamson expressed the city's excitement in welcoming softball enthusiasts to the region and wished all participants the best of luck. The tournament featured daily games starting at 8:00 am, with the grand finals captivating audiences on Monday, September 18th, beginning at 1:30 pm.

This event was made possible through the support of Mackay Regional Council's Invest Mackay Events and Conference Attraction Program, reinforcing their commitment to fostering sports and community engagement.

Softball Queensland CEO Ross Symonds commended the substantial turnout of teams and players in Mackay, emphasising the importance of these state championships. A state squad was selected from this event to defend the National Championships, which the Queensland U16 girls won earlier in January. Symonds also expressed his gratitude for Mackay Regional Council's financial support in making the championships a success.

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Over fifty Mackay Road Runners and supporters were hosted by Life Members, Merv and Wendy Shields from their Mount Pleasant residence for the annual Shields Stampede 5km and 12km races on Sunday, 17th September.

Runners enjoyed a post-race afternoon tea after the testing, hilly and undulating course through Beaconsfield and Andergrove, returning to the start line in Mount Pleasant.

An excellent effort in the 12km based on scratch start by first male, Toby Rule.

First female, Abi Sweeney also maintained excellent form, placing high amongst the male competitors as well as her female peers.

Nick Rewald and Lily Leven easily completed the 5km, both achieving first place.

The 24th September social trail running event will commence from Eungella Chalet at 8am, with a 6km and 18km to be completed.

Attendees are encouraged to carry hydration at all times, especially during the 18km run.

Check out the Mackay Road Runners page on Facebook to keep up to date with the latest club news and announcements.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Nearly forty runners had a cracking start to the 5k & 12k annual Shields Stampede.

Natalie Lorraway and Carole Dawes having a great time in the 5km event.

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Whether it’s swimming, athletics or lifesaving, Madison Malagueno is proving herself an emerging athlete to watch.

The Mackay sensation experienced a recent string of success in representative swimming, athletics and cross country events, setting her on a journey that seems destined for 2032 Olympic glory.

A swimmer with Pioneer Swimming Club, Madison qualified for the School Sport Australia Swimming Championships on the back of stellar results at the Queensland Representative School Swimming Championships in March.

The Pioneer Dolphin travelled to Sydney in August for the National Championships held at the Sydney Olympic Aquatic Park.

On the first day of competition, Madison’s Medley Relay Team swam beautifully, medalling silver on the podium with Madison swimming the freestyle leg of the relay.

Madison also made the final in her individual freestyle race, achieving a personal best in her preliminary heat.

While she didn’t podium in the final, she sure made her club proud, swimming amongst the best of the best on a national level.

Be it long or short distance, Madison has also proven her abilities on the running track, where she has been selected to compete at the Queensland Representative School Sports Athletics Championships for all events, held in Brisbane from October 9-10.

She will also be competing at the Athletics North Queensland Championships at the Mackay ARC from September 22-24 where she will compete in the 100m, 200m, 400m, 800m and 1500m events.

It’s been a year of athletic achievements that got Madison to these Championships, including placing first in 100m, 200m, 800m and 1500m events at the Southern Suburb School Sports Trials, second in 100m, 200m, 800m and 1500m events at Mackay District School Sports Trials and first in 1500m, second in 200m and 800m and third in 100m events at Capricornia District School Sports Trials.

She’s also found success in cross country events, placing first at Southern Suburb School Trials, second at the Mackay District School Sports Trials, third at the Capricornia District School Trials and 14th at the Queensland Representative School Trials.

Working with coaches Igor Demin of Pioneer Swimming Club and Tina and Luke Morse of ASSET (All Sports, Speed and Endurance Training) has taken Madison’s performance to all new levels, improving substantially under their guidance and mentoring and proving her dedication.

Madison has just started her surf lifesaving season and recently competed at the Arcadian Surf Life Saving Club Carnival at Alma Bay on Magnetic Island.

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Madison Malagueno recently competed at the School Sport Australia Swimming Championships in Sydney

Madison (second from left) and her Medley Relay Team achieved second place

Photo credit: Belinda Rule

Madison and her medals at the Capricornia Trials held in Mackay for Athletics

Madison at the Queensland Cross Country event

Photos supplied

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Twenty-four pairs played in the Mackay Barometer Pairs on the weekend of September 2-3, each pair playing 23 other pairs consisting of five boards per game. Lots of bridge was played with players attending from Townsville, Bowen and Rockhampton. Category A was won by a Rockhampton pair of Jan Randall and Don Cameron. Second place went to Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan with Max Holewa and Diane Holewa in 3rd place. Category B 1st - Faye Wright and Christine Nice 2nd - Jan Harris and Helen Van den Broek. Category C 1st – Sandra Morris and Annie Lynch. 2nd – Lydie Martin and Sue Breeze (Bowen)

The Magnetic Island Open Teams event was played in Townsville on the weekend of September 9-10. Mackay team Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Frances, and Alan Brown took out first place.

Mackay Barometer Pairs Results – Red Points Weekend

Category A Category B Category C

1st Jan Randall / Don Cameron 1st Faye Wright / Christine Nice 1st Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch

2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek 2nd Lydie Martin / Sue Breeze

3rd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 3rd

Weekly Results

Monday 11 September 2023 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points

1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting

3rd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 4th Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

5th Victor Mason / Antonia Tarradas 6th Anne Lutz / Griffin Bancroft

Tuesday Evening 12 September 2023 – 4 Table One Winner Mitchell Green Points

1st Janet Hansen / Faye Wright 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terrence Sheedy

3rd Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris 4th Eric Leivesley / Simon Barnes

Wednesday 13 September 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Monica Darley / Kath Poole 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2nd Antonia Tarradas / Joyce Deguara 2nd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris

3rd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 3rd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

Thursday Evening 14 September 2023 – 4 Table Green Points

1st Patricia Garner / Mick King 1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore 2nd Karen Caldwell / Susan Gibson

Friday 15 September 2023 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

1st Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell 1st Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

2nd Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix 2nd Frances Brown / Alan Brown

3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole 3rd David Ting / Ming Ting

Saturday 16 September 2023 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Roland Taylor / Jarek Taylor 1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown

2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Faye Wright / Christine Nice

3rd Mick King / Jan Harris 3rd Terrence Sheedy / Ian Gaskell

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Barometer Pairs Category A runners up Diane Morgan and Janet Hansen

Barometer Pairs Category C winners Anne Lutz (facilitator), winners Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris

Magnetic Island Teams winners Terrence Sheedy, Frances Brown, Director, Janelle Conroy and Alan Brown

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Mackay Meteorettes have unearthed an exciting crop of hoopers that have taken the representative basketball scene by storm.

Outstanding prospects Lily Mapp, Skye Vaughan, Maggie Thorburn and Ally Simpson continue to impress on court with their maturity and range of skills.

The St Patrick’s College quartet were members of the Queensland North representative side that claimed bronze at the recent Basketball Australia Under 16 National Girls Championships in Perth.

Mapp, a crafty centre, along with power forward Vaughan and guard Thorburn are only 14 years of age while dynamic wing Simpson is 15.

All four will spearhead a powerful St Patrick’s junior line up at the Champion Secondary Schools Basketball Carnival on the Gold Coast later this year.

They were joined in the Queensland North representative squad by talented Mackay point guard Cheyenne Bobongie and driver Isabel Smith.

Other Mackay young guns in the State Performance Program include St Patrick’s Year 12 students Charli Bliss (Queensland Under 18s) and Amarco Doyle (Queensland Under 20s); Hannah Jensen and Monique Bobongie (Queensland Under 18s) and top prospect Phoebe Holmes (Queensland Under 20s).

Rising centre Bliss and promising guards Jensen and Holmes developed their craft with impressive performances this season for Jamiey Doevendans’ youthful Meteorettes side in the NBL1 North Womens Conference.

Head Coach Doevendans tips bright futures for them all and looks forward to preparing the St Patrick’s basketball squads for this year’s Champion Secondary Schools State Senior and Junior tournaments.

“They are local products with enormous potential and were identified in our Junior Development system” he revealed.

Despite their teenage exuberance the gifted Mapp, Vaughan, Thorburn and Simpson have shown a maturity in competition that far belies their years.

“Through hard work and improved skills these Mackay juniors have made the most of opportunities and forced their way into State squads,” Doevendans added.

Emerging forward Doyle and 18-year-old guard Max Cain were mainstays in the Mackay Meteors squad that reached the finals of this year’s NBL 1 North Men’s Conference.

By Chris Karas

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North Queensland secured bronze against NSW Metro in the U16 Girls competition at the Basketball Australia Nationals in Perth, in a nail-biting finish to win 72-70. The team featured six Mackay players. Photo credit: Basketball Australia

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The Mackay Club held the Ladies Triples Champion of Champions last Thursday and Friday.

The Mackay Team of Janice Nelson, Robyn Schatowski , Erin Clemett went down by 1 point to Sarina Club in the semi-final.

Richie Mroz travelled to Arlie Beach for the Champion of Champions B singles and was beaten by the eventual winner.

This weekend Steve Cassidy travels to St Helens Club for the Senior Singles Champion of Champions.

RESULTS

Tuesday Social Play

Winner of Winners; Julie Caban, Marie Mayfield, Dot McMamara.

Winner of Losers: Alan Bartlett, Peter Nelson, Robyn Schatkowski, Barry Paskins.

No Scroungers were played on Thursday due to Mackay Club hosting Ladies Champion of Champions

Triples Friday Social Play

Winners: Leanne Jenner, Erin Clemett, Robyn Schatkowski.

Competition Results:

Men’s B Pairs: Michael Coll, Steve Cassidy Def Peter Nelson, Col Stevens.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Robyn Schatkowski, Janice Nelson Erin Clemett

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The Mackay Cycling Club’s Micallef Shield unfolded on the challenging Wollingford course earlier this month, on September 10. The 60-kilometer circuit race proved to be a gruelling test, with harsh winds wreaking havoc on the riders. Newcomers to the club added a fresh dimension to the competition.

The race was won by Kyle Marwood, riding from scratch giving a 20-minute handicap to the front bunch. He was first and fastest in a time of 1:26:18. Tracy Falbo is showing her great form, coming 7th overall emerging as the fastest woman in a time of 1:38:08

Results:

1st place: Kyle Marwood

2nd place: Tim Ffrost

3rd place: Angus Wicks

4th place: Glen McDermott

5th place: Geoff Bennett

6th place: Michael Novikov

7th place: Tracy Falbo

8th place: Craig Larsen

9th place: Peter Ransome

10th place: Zac Schwarzrock

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Podium L-R: Tracy Falbo (first woman), Tim Ffrost, Kyle Marwood (fastest man), Angus Wicks

Kyle Marwood

Tracy Falbo

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The Sugar City Classic will provide three days of high-adrenaline BMX racing once again this year, with three tracks being raced over the long weekend.

Hosted by Mackay and District BMX Club and Sarina BMX Club, the racing will be held at the Mackay, Sarina, and Walkerston BMX tracks, making it a one-of-a-kind event in Queensland.

Last year around 300 riders took part in the event with similar numbers expected again this year. It attracts top talent from across the state with top riders hitting form after competing at the state championships this week at Cooloola.

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Local BMXers have been training in preparation for the Sugar City Classic. Photos supplied: MAD BMX Club

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If you ventured onto the beach at Cape Hillsborough last weekend, you would have been greeted by a spectacular sea of sails as Mackay's Central Queensland Blokart Club (CQBC) hosted its thrilling annual regatta from September 8 to 10. Now in its 15th year, the CQBC Annual Cape Hillsborough Regatta has solidified its status as one of the best and biggest blokarting event in Australia, attracting competitors from far and wide.

With participants hailing from Victoria, southeast Queensland, Capricornia, Whitsundays, and North Queensland, the regatta saw a total of twenty-one blokarts vying for supremacy on the sandy flats. The racing was fierce and exhilarating, as competitors navigated the challenging South to Southeast breeze, which ranged from nine knots to gusts reaching an impressive twelve to fifteen knots.

Throughout the weekend, a total of 16 races pushed these wind-powered racers to their limits, with points accumulating to determine the ultimate champions.

CQBC Founder David Moore noted that while this year saw slightly smaller numbers due to simultaneous sailing events and cost of living pressures, the regatta still delivered an unforgettable day of sailing action for all participants.

The competition featured two classes: the Production class, which mandates using blokarts as they come from the factory, and the Performance class, allowing for customisation of rigging, the use of stiffer carbon-fibre mast sections, and a streamlined Pod to reduce air resistance. Various weight categories ensured that the racing remained competitive, regardless of weather conditions.

The 15th Annual Cape Hillsborough Regatta proved once again that blokarting is not just a sport but an exhilarating passion shared by enthusiasts from all corners of the country, promising an exciting future for this high-speed event.

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The winners were awarded after 16 races over three days. Photo supplied

Blokart action on Cape Hillsborough Beach. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

Trans-Tasman rivalry came to Mackay last week with the Australia A and New Zealand A cricket teams sharing the international spoils at Great Barrier Reef Arena.

After wrapping up the four-day series 2-0, the Black Caps went into last Sunday’s one day international brimming with confidence – but couldn’t stop a strengthened Australian side from posting a five-wicket victory.

Western Australian hot shot Ashton Turner top scored with an unbeaten 56 as the home team eclipsed the Kiwis’ total of 169 to strike the first blow in the three match limited overs series.

Turner, who was part of Australia’s triumphant Twenty 20 squad that swept South Africa 3-0 in their recent series, shared an unbroken stand of 65 with skipper Will Sutherland (34 not out) for the sixth wicket.

Twenty-six-year-old opener Caleb Jewell (29) and young gun Oliver Davies (20 off 15 balls) also chipped in with dashing knocks in Australia’s successful run chase.

Earlier pace ace Gurinder Sandhu bagged an impressive haul of 5-27 off nine overs to wreck the New Zealand top order.

Sandhu removed number three Dean Foxcroft (14), skipper Tom Bruce (0), Leo Carter (6) and Josh Clarkson (2) to have the incredible bowling figures of 4-1 and later 5-9 when he dismissed opener Nick Kelly for 52.

Keeper-batsman Cam Fletcher (31) and all-rounder Scott Kuggeleijn (29) also produced enterprising knocks for New Zealand.

Ashes Test spinner Matthew Kuhnemann grabbed 2-36 in his ten over spell.

Seamer Michael Rae was the pick of the Kiwi bowlers with figures of 3-42.

New Zealand A drew first blood in the four-day series with a 225-run victory in Brisbane – anchored by Kuggeleijn’s 85-ball ton - before clinching the pink ball ‘test’ in Mackay by 68 runs.

The Black Caps posted a total of 277 in the first innings with Kelly top scoring with 64 and Henry Cooper and Mitchell Hay both registering 39 runs.

Quicks Mitchell Perry (4-41 off 15 overs) and Liam Hatcher (4-77 off 17) were the pick of the Aussie bowlers.

A blazing 105 by keeper Josh Philippe – his third in first class cricket – and half centuries by Nathan McSweeney (56) and Ben Dwarshuis (50) were highlights of Australia’s total of 275.

Inspired by an unbeaten 105 by skipper Bruce and half centuries by Sean Solia (62) and Foxcroft (53) in their second innings, the Black Caps registered 299 with Hatcher (4-92 off 23 overs) and Perry (3-58 off 20) again amongst the wickets.

Australia A fell short in their run chase for victory – despite a superb 131 by Jewell who cracked two sixes and 17 boundaries in his 169-ball knock.

The Kiwi bowling unit were best served by Kuggeleijn (3-50 off 16), paceman Will O’Rourke (3-64 off 15), Solia (2-27 off seven) and Jacob Duffy (2-65 off 15).

Australia A lead the limited overs fixtures 1-0 and complete the series with two matches in Brisbane.

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Mayor Greg Williamson performed the coin toss for the ODI on Sunday

The Mackay Bowls Club had an interesting turn of events in their games this week, with unsuspected rainfall washing out the Thursday Scroungers Final.

Peter Walsh defeated Mike Irving with a lucky card draw, after the play was suspended from wet weather conditions.

The Men’s B Grade Singles were played over the weekend, with Richie Moraz defeating Richard Bell in a close game of 25-18.

Richie will now go on to play in District B Singles Championships at Airlie Beach, on 16th and 17th September.

Men’s Triples team Peter Taaffe, Kees Struik and Richie Moraz won their first match, but narrowly lost their second game in the District Triples Championship over the weekend.

The Mackay Ladies will be hosting Ladies Triples Championships on Thursday 14th and Friday 15th September.  The Mackay Bowls Club will be represented by Erin Clements, Janice Nelson and Robyn Schatkowski.

Mackay Bowls Club Weekly Results:

Tuesday Social Play Winners: Leanne Jenner, Barry Jenner, Peter Carter.

Tuesday Social Play Winners of Losers: Robyn Schatkowski, Fuddy, Barry Paskins.

Thursday Scroungers Final: Peter Walsh def Mike Irving.

Friday Social Play Winners: Kirstine Robinson, Barry Jenner, Leanne Jenner.

Men’s Open Triples: Peter Taaffe, Kees Struik, Richie Moraz def K. Tranberg, D. Wootton, N. Wilson

Two Bowl Open Triples: P. Carter, C. Marks, B. Paskins def E. Wynd, D. Wootton B. Bridger.

Three Bowl B Triples: J. Smith, T. Casey, R. Casey def D. Currey, M. Irving, M. Coll.

Mixed Fours: C Marks, J Caban, D. McMamara, T. Mayfield def C. Savage, N. Brand, K. Burns, B. Brown

Contributed by Mike Irving

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John Breen Park in North Mackay provided a stunning backdrop for the Mackay Road Runners on Sunday morning, 10th September, for their ‘Gooseponds Gallop’ - a self-paced, social loop event for local endurance runners.

The basic loop consists of a 2.3-kilometre run, however some keen participants committed themselves to go the extra distance, with 4.6km and 6.9km trials also being completed.

Endurance Queen, Jose Short completed four loops, or 10.2km of the circuit in what is described as a ‘low-key training session’ for her abilities, alongside her training buddy, June Bradley.

While dodging local wildlife and taking in the scenic views, over thirty runners took part in the event, welcomed by Club President, Tim Magoffin.  

The club also saw newcomers attending, some travelling from as far as Sarina Beach to catch the action.

This coming Sunday, the annual ‘Shields Stampede’ commences at 4pm. The event is set to begin at the home of Life Members’, Wendy and Merv at 21 Karl Langer Crescent.

This course will provide the options of a 5km or 12km run, travelling throughout the suburbs of Andergrove and Beaconsfield, finishing with afternoon tea at the finish line in Mt Pleasant.

The Mackay Road Runners stick to a busy schedule with an upcoming Presentation Dinner, Wednesday track sessions with Jim Ford and the pinnacle of the season’s calendar, the coveted Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy.

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New runner, Len Howarth (left) is welcomed by Mackay Road Running Members, Jan Smith, Stuart Sprott and Jen White.

Darrin Pullen and Jose Short enjoy a run and a chat at the social ‘Gooseponds’ Circuit.

Mackay Ladies City Bowls have been busy in recent weeks.

Firstly, member Fay Kerr has celebrated her 90th birthday and received her Matriarch Badge.

Fay began bowling in 1975 in Moranbah, where she later became providore and president.

She moved to Mackay in 1979 and became a member of the RSL Bowls Club, where she was victorious in many competitions.

Fay later became the President of the Mackay District and won a gold medal at the North Queensland Games.

Another member Phyllis Morgan won the district B Grade singles and the district Novice singles, at the District Championships.

Mackay City Bowls also jointly held the State Multi-Disability games, with the Souths Club in August.

The week went well, with fantastic displays of bowling.

Contributed by Shirley Sturgeon

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Fay Kerr receiving her Matriarch badge from our Lady President Marie Frederickson

Phyllis Morgan after winning her District B Grade singles final at St Helens

One of Ann Putland’s greatest joys is helping out at the State Multi-Disability Games

City member volunteers at the State Multi-Disability Games in August. Photos supplied

Development and Mackay Brothers Junior Rugby League Club go hand in hand.

Having just completed one of their most successful campaigns in the Mackay Junior League in recent years, the Bulldogs continue to unearth an exciting crop of talent through its renowned development program.

It was a season to savour for the Brothers Juniors who annexed the Under 13, Under 15 and Under 17 age premierships; the Under 14 Boys Plate; Junior Club Championship Shield plus the Ivan Bradford Trophy for most teams on Grand Final Day.

Both Bulldogs’ Under 16 Boys teams reached the semi-finals while the Under 14 Girls side made a Grand Final appearance for the first time.

“We are big on development as a club and how many kids we have playing rugby league” revealed Brothers Juniors President Andrew Battaia.

“Our aim each season is to do all we can to keep our squads progressing through the ranks” he said.

The Bulldogs development program is reaping plenty of dividends.

Six junior Brothers products – back rower Kayne Smith (North Queensland Cowboys), utility half Adam McSherry (Broncos), second rower Jake Bryan (Newcastle Knights), lock Declan Grady (Cowboys), half back Grange Womal (Gold Coast Titans) and centre Norm Campbell (Cowboys) – have signed NRL contracts.

Another three Bulldogs juniors in talented five eighth Flynn Battaia, prop Isaiah Wilson and hooker Cooper Deguara have been invited to trial with the Titans Under 16s in Ipswich at the end of the month.

The skilful Battaia was the Cutters’ top points scorer in this year’s Cyril Connell Cup and has a sound kicking game while the crafty Deguara led St Patrick’s College to Cowboys Challenge Shield and North Queensland Regional titles.

Wilson was drafted into the Bulldogs Under 17s and scored a try double in the club’s 22-12 Grand Final triumph over Souths Sharks.

President Battaia says the Brothers motto is “development takes precedence over premierships.”

“The development work implemented over the past decade by the likes of former Coaching Coordinators Heath Cruckshank and Steve Deardon (father of Cowboys and Origin playmaker Tom Deardon) and current co-ordinator Gary Bassett has reaped plenty of rewards,” a proud Battaia enthused.

Andrew also pointed to the Brothers’ success in the senior ranks with the A Grade Women lifting the trophy and the men's Under 20 and A Grade teams reaching Grand Finals against the Magpies.

“This shows the pathway to the Leprechauns for our junior players which has kept the club in good stead,” he added.

The Brothers Juniors major award winners for 2023 include Player of the Year – Jake Bryan (Under 17s); Most Promising Player – Grange Womal (Under 15s); Club Captain 2024 – Isaiah Wilson (Under 16s/17s) and Representative Player of Year – Toby Woodall (Under 16s).

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Brothers Bulldogs players and officials display their Under 13, Under 15 and Under 17 Mackay Junior League premiership trophies

Jubilant Brothers Bulldogs players celebrate their Under 15s premiership victory over Moranbah Miners at the Mackay Junior League Grand Finals at BB Print Stadium

The Pioneer Swimming Club travelled to Townsville this month to compete in the Townsville Tourist Centenary Transition Meet, held from September 2-3.

Nine Dolphins attended the event, having the chance to experience the start of Spring and the glorious warmer weather in Townsville.

The personal bests achieved by the Pioneer Swimming Club at this meet were massive – not just a second or two, but fantastic results of 13 seconds or more in some events.

One of the club’s youngest swimmers, Mia Clarke, collected 1 gold, 2 silver and 3 bronze over the weekend; and Isaiah Espartinez collected 1 silver and 3 bronze.

The Club was extremely proud of all our swimmers who attended this meet.

The Pioneer Swimming Club would like to thank Townsville Tourist Amateur Swimming Club for a fantastic event enjoyed by all.

Contributed by Pioneer Swim Club

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1 – Lily Cole

2 – Stevie Brand

3 – Vitalyi Davidenko

4 – Yasmin Seedwell

5 - Pioneer Swimming Club members at the Townsville Tourist Centenary Transition Meet

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Roller derby is a fast-paced, full contact sport on roller skates, where skaters often take on ‘derby personas’ with creative names, outfits and face paint.

RADfest takes its name from the Regional Alliance Derby, presenting skaters from ages 8 to 18, all the way from Tasmania to Cairns and converging in Mackay for this years’ event.

Mackay City Rollers has secured a lineup of experienced coaches from all over Australia, including ‘Pure NRG’ from Sydney, Col Dennis from Toowoomba, ‘Rumpofsteelskin’ from Brisbane and ‘Heat Seeker’, from Hobart.

‘Heat Seeker’, who co-captained alongside Mackay’s very own ‘Dust Devil’ for Team Australia Juniors in France, is hitting the town fresh from his World Cup success.

This team of talented skaters brought home the Bronze Medal after an epic weekend of derby, wearing the green and gold in Vallance, France.

Joining them on the track for the RADfest weekend are several fellow Team Australia skaters, as well as Mackay’s own home-grown talent and other skaters from across Australia.

Mackay City Rollers President ‘Splitz’ says, “We are excited to have such an array of experienced coaches attending this weekend, to impart their many years of skating and roller derby knowledge to our juniors. Regional events like this are so critical in developing our regional skater[s].”

‘Splitz’ also states that Mackay City Rollers are trying to offer local skaters the highest-level coaching available in Australia to further develop their skills, with many setting their sights on representing Queensland at Nationals in 2024 and competing in the 2025 World Cup in Brisbane.

RADfest will be open to the public from 6pm on Saturday, September 15 at Mackay PCYC. An invitational Level 3 Junior bout (or game) will be held for spectators.

Mackay City Rollers is an inclusive roller derby league catering to both seniors and juniors, with

training every Wednesday at Mackay PCYC. No skating experience is required, and the league provides skates and protective gear to help you get rolling.

Visit Mackay City Rollers on Facebook or email president.mcrollers@gmail.com for more information.

For all media enquiries or photo opportunities at the event, please contact: president.mcrollers@gmail.com or call 0424 349 183.

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Mackay City Rollers is set to host RADfest, a bootcamp and scrimmage event for the annual Junior Roller Derby weekend commencing September 16th and 17th.

Mackay City Rollers put their skills on display at a local skate park.

Photo Credit: Mackay City Rollers

Junior members show great sportsmanship during their training session

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The last of the North Mackay Ladies Club competitions was played last week with two bowl triples.

The winners with a 9 and 8 was Min Andrew as lead, Shirley Bartolo as second, and Kathy Mathews as skip.

In second place was Lyn Maguire as lead, Bev Mc Donald as second and Lorna Bowers as skip with a score of 6 and 12.

Social bowls resumed again this week.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine

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Three Bowls triples winners L-R: Deb Mackenzie, Maryann Bartolo, June Cousen

Two Bowls triples winners L-R:  Kathy Mathews, Shirley Bartolo and Min Andrew

One of Queensland’s finest schoolboy rugby league nurseries Palm Beach-Currumbin State High have staked a genuine claim for the National Schoolboys Cup championship trophy.

The Reds are strong contenders for this year’s national title after capturing the Queensland State Championship and Northern Conference Phil Hall Cup with a resounding 28-0 victory over St Patrick’s College Mackay in Townsville last week.

Regarded as a famous breeding ground for future NRL players, the Gold Coast school have booked a National Schoolboys Cup Final showdown with NSW Southern Conference champions Westfields Sports High after they edged out Patrician Brothers Blacktown 18-17 in the Peter Mulholland Cup final.

This year’s Cup decider will be staged on Wednesday September 13 at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium, formerly known as Kogarah Jubilee Oval.

It is a huge achievement by Palm Beach-Currumbin who have produced superb displays in recent weeks to eliminate reigning national champions Ipswich State High and an in-form St Patrick’s College side that clinched the Aaron Payne Cup.

The Reds’ powerful forward pack laid the foundations for victory with Baylen Donald, Isaac Harrison, Jett Jackson, Jaylen Taewa and hooker Will Saunders making an impact along with classy halves Bailey McConnell and Zane Harrison.

The Reds nursery has produced 52 NRL players including former Kangaroos Ben Ikin, Darius Boyd and Ben Hannant and Kiwi Test stars Jahrome Hughes, Sam Perrett and Kevin Proctor as well as Origin stars Tom Dearden, Ryan James and Cody Walker.

Ian Schifilliti’s St Patrick’s squad can hold their heads high after a successful 2023 campaign that included winning the Aaron Payne Cup premiership, reaching the Queensland State Championship final and semi-finals of the QISSRL Confraternity Shield.

By Chris Karas

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St Patrick’s College Mackay’s Opens rugby league team capped a memorable 2023 by winning the Aaron Payne Cup and reaching the final of the Queensland State Championship

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures September 5, 2023:

Division 1:

Radak (Graham Brake, Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake) d Andro (Robbie Richards, Barry Patterson, George Camilleri) 8-3. Barry d Lee 4, 3, -8, -12, 10.

Joola (Mark Poplawski, Andrew McHugh, Geoff Denman) d Donic (Anne Sheridan, Tony Bowman, Ivan Perkins) 7-4. Andrew d Anne 8, -7, -8, 1, 11.

Tibhar (Steven Whiting, Tim Sheehan, Vince Boeske) d Butterfly (Graeme Walker, Emma Widdup, Allan Edwards) 6-5. Vince d Allan 9, -15, -9, 8, 7.

Division 2:

Stiga (Leo Gilbert, Tony Bowman) d Xiom (Duncan Treloar, Duncan Sheridan) 7-2. Tony d Duncan T -10, 5, 5, 16.

Nittaku (John McGee, David Ting, Will VanDeKaa) d Yasaka (Andrea Nicholson, Peter Goodson) 8-3. John d Peter -9, 6, -1, 7, 10.

Victas (Mark Sleeman, Steve Mathieson) d Gewo (Trent Day, Matthew West) 9-2. Mark/Steve d Matthew/Trent -6, 10, 8, -7, 8.

Division 3:

Elsilon (Jye Callender, Virginia Clayton) d Gamma (Craig VanDeKaa) 7-2.

Beta (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Simon Hogan, Kade Wright) d Zeta (David Symons, Bill Hey) 8-3. Simon d David 7, -7, -4, 9, 3.

Alpha (Ollie Hamelink, Misha Palod) d Delta (Val Austin, Saisha Palod) 5-4. Ollie d Saisha -10, 2, -10, 9, 6.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures team winners from the second season:

Div 1 Kevin Abbott, Steve Mathieson, Branko Vucurovic; Div 2 Iris Grasso, Ken Best, Judi Hicks; Div 3 Allison Day, Sharon Muller, Ian Dodds.

Doubles tournament winners: Div 1 George Camilleri, Div 2 Marie Taylor.

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Junior Akshaj Kumari in training at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre

Cricket loving dads were served up a Father’s Day treat last Sunday at Harrup Park when Mackay Junior Cricket clubs grabbed an opportunity to meet and greet members of the Australia A men’s cricket team.

Some 110 enthusiastic junior cricketers and parents from local clubs Walkerston, Brothers, Souths Sharks, Pioneer Valley, Northern Suburbs Devils and Proserpine caught up with the Australian squad at Great Barrier Reef Arena on the eve of the four-day international fixture against New Zealand A in Mackay.

Under the astute guidance of coach Adam Voges, the Australia A team - featuring star players such as Cameron Bancroft, Josh Philippe, Matt Kuhnemann and Mark Steketee - promised a week filled with riveting cricket action.

The heartwarming Q and A session with the Australia A team was a fascinating experience for Walkerston Cricket Club president Lance Ryan and his two sons Flynn, 11, and Austin, 17.

An excited Lance and sons along with fellow Walkerston juniors Riley Bourke, Lachlan Bath and Aiden Loader were thrilled to meet rising keeper batsman Josh Philippe.

Ryan senior plays third grade for Walkerston and Masters Cricket and has served as Club President for the past two summers.

Flynn, who will represent the Coastal Marlins Under 12s in the Junior BPL Twenty20 Challenge during the September school holidays, recently smashed 122 off 62 balls in the Mackay Junior Winter Whack.

He will be joined at the Under 12s BPL by club mate Bath, who will line up for the Northern Kings.

This week’s four day and limited overs fixtures are poised to deliver memorable moments for cricket enthusiasts and fans alike.

Mackay and the surrounding regions are abuzz with excitement, as the teams gear up to showcase their talent and sportsmanship on the field. This cricket spectacle not only celebrates the sport but also fosters a strong sense of community among residents and supporters.

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Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes

Ryan Family: Lance Ryan with sons, Flynn and Austin. Photo credit: Chris Karas

On Wednesday, August 30, North Mackay Bowls Club Ladies played their club selected 3 Bowls Triples Competition.

It was a wonderful turn out with 42 eager ladies competing.

The eventual winners after three games played were June Cousen, Maryann Bartolo and Deb Mackenzie.

Runners up, very close behind them were Lurline Ford, Bev McDonald and Anne Smith.

North Mackay’s Champion of Champion 4’s team, consisting of Marie Bragg, Christine Hall, Michele Stockton and Nuggy Pratt, travelled all the way to Longreach over the August 26-27 weekend to compete in the playoffs in this year’s Zone Final, and won all their games and the final game to come home the winners.

A massive congratulations to all four Ladies, from the club , and I’m sure most of the clubs in our district as well.

Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine

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Champion of Champion 4’s zone finalists. L-R  Chris Hall, Michele Stockton, Marie Bragg and Nuggy Pratt

Mavericks Prepare For Season Opener, First Home Game

A round two Reef Bowl replay at home is one of the many highlights in the Mackay Maverick’s 2023/24 season schedule, kicking off in October.

The Mavericks went down to the Townsville Cyclones in last season's ultimate decider and the local team are looking forward to bringing the game back to Mackay fans.

The round two clash will headline a triple header at Western Suburbs Leagues Club on October 28, with all six north and central Queensland teams playing in Mackay on the day.

But, ahead of the season opener, Mavericks coach Brad Sommerville is focused on preseason preparations.

“Preseason is all about learning our game plan and the way we want to play and then heading up to the start of the season, we’ll focus in on round one and who we’re playing there,” he said.

“The boys have been training for quite a while now, we started training a few months ago, so we’re all ready to go for our season opener.”

The growth of gridiron in Mackay has seen new members join the squad, some more familiar with the game than others, and Mr Somerville is hopeful for the season ahead.

“We have quite a few players who turn up without knowing the game,” he said.

“They might’ve seen a few games on TV and know the basics but not the many, many, many rules we have.

“It takes a little bit to get them across the line but so far they’re all looking sharp and ready to go.”

The Mavericks have also announced a training/come and try session in Moranbah, both to accommodate the Bowen Basin-based players and to give the town a taste of American football.

The Mackay squad will open their season on October 21 against Mulgrave Vikings in Townsville before their first home game at Western Suburbs Leagues Club on October 28.

“We’re hoping to bring a fun and festive atmosphere this year, hopefully very similar to what college football is like in the states with some pre-game and half-time entertainment, some pumping music and hopefully a lot of local supporters there to cheer us on,” Mr Somerville said.

Visit Mackay Gridiron on Facebook for more information.

Mackay Mavericks Home Games

October 28, 2023 vs Townsville Cyclones (triple header)

November 18, 2023 vs Rockhampton Wolverines

January 20, 2024 vs Townsville Cyclones

January 27, 2024 vs Rockhampton Wolverines

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures August 29, 2023:

Division 1:

Tibhar (Vince Boeske, Steven Whiting, Tim Sheehan) d Andro (Robbie Richards, Barry Patterson, George Camilleri) 8-3. Steven d Barry 12, -12, 8, -9, 10.

Radak (Graham Brake, Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake) d Donic (Anne Sheridan, Ian McKay, Ivan Perkins) 8-3. Mick/Lee d Anne/Ivan 6, -5, -8, 12, 5.

Joola (Andrew McHugh, Geoff Denman, Janice Kent) d Butterfly (Graeme Walker, Emma Widdup, Allan Edwards) 6-5. Geoff d Emma -11, 10, -8, 9, 9.

Division 2:

Yasaka (Andrea Nicholson, Peter Goodson, Noreen Fredericksen) d Victas (Steve Crocker, Mark Sleeman, Steve Mathieson) 6-5. Noreen d Steve C -7, 6, 7, -10, 7.

Nittaku (John McGee, David Ting, Will VanDeKaa) d Xiom (Duncan Treloar, Ishan Rana, Duncan Sheridan) 6-5. David d Duncan -6, 8, -6, 6, 7.

Stiga (Tony Bowman, Donna Abbott, Leo Gilbert) d Gewo (Trent Day, Matthew West) 10-1. Leo d Matthew -8, 12, -8, 6, 8.

Division 3:

Delta (Saisha Palod, Val Austin) d Zeta (David Symons, Bill Hey) 5-4. Val/Saisha d David/Bill -16, 6, -7, 3, 9.

Alpha (Ollie Hamelink, Rymer Tabulo, Misha Palod) d Epsilon (Daniel Warfield, Alok Rana) Daniel d Rymer 9, 7, -5, -11, 4.

Tuesday morning Mackay Table Tennis annual championships results:

A grade: Branko Vucurovic, r/u Tony Bowman. Doubles George Camilleri/Mike Ibbotson, r/u Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson.

Reserve grade: Marie Taylor; r/u Louise Gould. Doubles Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor; r/u Iris Grasso, Cheryl Pearson.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Cheryl Pearson and Sharon Muller do battle in the Tuesday morning table tennis annual tournament. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

Champions Crowned

Branko Vucurovic is again the Avril Hodges Memorial Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures A grade champion.

Branko won his second successive title this week, overcoming Tony Bowman in the final.

The two both play a defensive style mixed with attack and there were many long rallies, but Branko’s overall consistency proved too much in the final.

George Camilleri and Mike Ibbotsen won the doubles against Branko Vucurovic and Peter Goodson.

The division 2 final went to Marie Taylor from Louise Gould. Marie teamed with Robyn Bushell to win the doubles from Iris Grasso and Cheryl Pearson.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Branko Vucurovic and Tony Bowman after the A grade final of the Avril Hodges Memorial Tuesday morning table tennis annual championships. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

Cricket is a way of life for outstanding Mackay juniors Jack Law, Matilda Wiggins and Maddie Searle.

The promising trio are pictured with local cricket legends and experienced educators Adam Knezevic and Chris Dunn after helping St Patrick’s College secure a unique treble of North Queensland Secondary Schools Twenty20 Challenge titles.

Following the Senior Boys championship triumph last month, the College unveiled its depth of talent to bring home the Junior Boys and Girls trophies with resounding victories at Harrup Park.

Aggressive stroke play from young guns Jack Law and Ben Garner and a stunning five wicket haul by Cooper Boyce piloted St Patrick’s (6-112) to an impressive victory over Proserpine State High (7-111).

Law cracked a superb 38 off 22 balls – thumping six boundaries and a six – while Garner hit five boundaries in a classy knock of 30.

The pair shared an opening stand of 58 before Boyce posted 14 runs to back up his figures of 5-16 with the ball.

Proserpine High were best served by talented all-rounder Jack Valmadre who hit 28 runs and snared 2-15.

There was no stopping St Patrick’s in the Junior Girls trophy decider after they registered a formidable total of 3-208 with top knocks from Matilda Wiggins (39 retired), Elisha Holdsworth (34 retired), Maddie Searle (26 retired), Holly Wardrop (26 not out) and Paytton Thompson (25 retired).

St Patrick’s lost their first wicket with the score on 146 and second wicket at 2-207.

Matilda Wiggins and Indy Jorgensen also shone with the ball as St Patrick’s rolled Proserpine for a paltry 78 with Kobe Manley top-scoring with 14.

Wiggins (3-6) and Jorgensen (3-11) collected three wicket hauls with support from Holly Wardrop (1-3), Eeden Thompson (1-8) and Paytton Thompson (1-9).

By Chris Karas

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St Patrick’s cricket stars Jack Law, Matilda Wiggins and Maddie Searle display their North Queensland Secondary Schools Twenty20 Challenge trophy with Mackay cricket legends Adam Knezevic and Chris Dunn

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Mackay Magpies have capped a successful campaign in the 2023 Junior League senior ranks with a deserved premiership treble.

Fresh from their Grand Final triumph in the Under 14 Girls competition, the Magpies have added the Under 20 and A Grade Men’s titles to their trophy cabinet.

In a top quality Under 20s decider at BB Print Stadium the Magpies edged out Brothers 26-18 with star five eighth Jaxon Purdue stealing the show.

The Queensland Schoolboys five eighth lined up against his great St Patrick’s College teammate Xavier Kerrisk and earned the spoils with another classy display.

In a game of fluctuating fortunes, Purdue and winger Balin Burnett crossed for try doubles with fullback Jaffahl Skillington scoring another to keep the Bulldogs at bay.

The Magpies forward pack led by props Levi Love and Nehemiah Wuatai-Davis, hooker Jaxn Sign, back rowers Jack Thorburn and skipper Reville MacPhee, lock Harry Thorpe and Liam Doherty provided the go-forward in an absorbing contest.

Brothers remained in the hunt with solid games from hooker Kerrisk, Hudson Camilleri, lock Noah Cookson, back rowers Patrick Vella, Reece Morris and centres Will Whippy and Rory Woodall.

The Magpies registered a 26-6 victory over Brothers in the A Grade decider with Zane Wallace, Kahlani Mooney, Joshua Kilpatrick, Andrew Borg and Maika Tudravu crossing for tries.

Brothers trailed 8-6 at the break but couldn’t contain the rampaging Magpies in the second stanza.

With clever halves Kayla Shepherd and Imogen Healy calling the shots, the Bulldogs were crowned A Grade Women’s champions after toppling Moranbah Miners 18-4.

Back rower Charlie Jackson, Keegan Irelandes, hooker Zoe Aitken and Alicia Martin nabbed tries for Brothers with star schoolgirl forwards Gracie Watt and Chelsea McLeod turning in powerhouse displays.

The Magpies proved too strong for Brothers in the Under 14 Girls Grand Final – chalking up a 16-0 victory with tries by dashing centre Jade Geiger (2), half back Veanna Sweet and second rower Tayla Hayles.

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Mackay Magpies captured the Under 14 Girls premiership with a 16-0 Grand Final triumph over Brothers

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Seventeen Mackay members, including the director Geoff Taylor, attended the Yeppoon Congress two weekends ago. Open Pairs Winners were Alan and Francie Brown with Janelle Conroy and Monica Darley third. In the Open teams, the Holewa team, Max and Di, and Janelle and Monica were third. The Morris team, Sandra Morris, Annie Lynch, Ted Cullinan and Noel Saunders, finished above their ranking with second in B Grade.

Weekly Results

Monday 28 August 2023 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek 1st Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

2nd Monica Darley / Nancy Martin 2nd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait

3rd Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes 3rd Victor Mason / Antonia Tarradas

Monday Eclectic August 2023

1st Diane Stokes

2nd Antonia Tarradas

3rd Helen Van Den Broek

Tuesday Evening 29 August 2023 - 4 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Terrence Sheedy

2nd Janelle Conroy / Eric Leivesley 2nd Sandra Morris / Frances Brown

Tuesday Evening Eclectic August 2023

1st Diane Morgan

2nd Eric Leivesley

3rd Janelle Conroy

Wednesday 30 August 2023 – Auswide Open Pairs – 9 Table Mitchell

N/S E/W

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

2nd Alan Brown / Janelle Conroy 2nd Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

3rd Eric Leivesley / Terrence Sheedy 3rd Josie Cowley / Barbara Tait

Wednesday Eclectic August 2023

1st David Ting

2nd Eric Goodchild

3rd Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 31 August 2023 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

3rd Patricia Garner / Mick King

Thursday Evening Eclectic August 2023

1st Anne Whitmore

2nd Frances Brown

3rd Terrence Sheedy

Friday 01 September 2023 - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown 1st Victor Mason / Josie Cowley

2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole 2nd Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

3rd Joyce Deguara / Toni Large 3rd Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

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Open Winners Frances and Alan Brown

3rd Open Teams - Monica Darley, Janelle Conroy, Award Presenter, Diane and Max Holewa. Photos supplied

Mona Townsend, a true stalwart of the bowling green, celebrated her 90th birthday this year. She continues to be an active and vibrant force in the world of lawn bowls, participating in a wide array of competitions, including carnival, PAHs, and club Championship Fours, Triples, Pairs, and Consistency Singles.

One of the most memorable highlights of Mona's bowls career was when she skippered the Club Champion Triples Team to a resounding victory. What made this achievement even more special was that her team consisted of members spanning the entire spectrum of age, including the oldest, youngest, and newest club members.

Mona's unwavering commitment and passion for the sport extend beyond personal glory. She remains an invaluable member of the Ladies Pennants team, and it's only now, at the age of 90, that Mona is considering learning to use a bowling arm.

Off the greens, Mona is a tireless worker, always ready to assist in the running of raffles and cent sales. Until recently, she held the committee position of Match Chair, demonstrating her dedication to the sport.

Mackay Bowls Club Weekly Results

Tuesday Social Play Winners: Arthur Nayler, Richie Mroz.

Tuesday Social Play Winner of Losers: Peter Nelson, Col Stevens, Janice Nelson.

Thursday Scroungers Final: Kees Struik def. Neal Holt.

Friday Social Play Winners: Peter Nelson, Gary Williamson, Val Edwards.

Men's Open Triples: K. Tranberg, D. Wootton, N. Wilson def. S. Makin, C. Molloy, P. Molloy.

Men's B Singles: R. Bell def. D. Currey.

Mixed Pairs: J. Nelson, G. Edmonds def. K. Catanzariti, D. Wootton.

Ladies Consistency Singles: C. Savage def. D. McMamara.

Two Bowl Triples: E. Clements, J. Nielsen, R. Schatkowski def. H. Truscott, J. Caban, W. Pomery.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Brothers Bulldogs reign supreme in the Mackay Junior League after being crowned 2023 Junior Club Champions and lifting three premiership trophies and a Plate title.

The famous club also collected the Ivan Bradford Award for most teams in a Grand Final – highlighting the outstanding development work implemented by officials.

On an action-packed program at BB Print Stadium, the Bulldogs underlined their depth of emerging talent by registering Grand Final victories in the Under 13, Under 15 and Under 17 Boys age divisions and a Plate trophy in the Under 14 Boys category.

The famous Brothers club have enjoyed a bumper season in the Junior League with the Under 14 Girls finishing runners up to the Magpies in their competition and both Under 16 Boys teams reaching the semi-finals.

Now the Bulldogs are poised to add more silverware to their trophy cabinet when the Under 20s side tackles the Magpies in this Saturday’s Grand Final at BB Print Stadium at 11am after thumping Wests Tigers 42-16 in a preliminary final.

Brothers and Magpies will also feature in the A Grade decider this Friday at 5pm after the Bulldogs tipped out Sarina Crocodiles 24-16.

A proud Bulldogs President Andrew Battaia said club officials were ecstatic with the meritorious achievements of their junior and senior teams this season.

“We have enjoyed lots of success which is a testimony of the hard work put in by players and the coaching staff,” revealed Andrew, who is one of the most respected mentors in the Mackay Cutters junior representative system.

Battaia and coach Peter Bowman masterminded the Under 13 Brothers Blue team’s 22-14 victory over the Magpies.

Promising forwards Will Bowman, Brock Peberdy, Tayt Rowe, Blake Battaia, Jordan Ramos and Alex Webster paved the way for the Bulldogs with strong running and jarring defence and were supported by classy five eighth Harper Shields, centre Benji Calicetto and fullback Noah Allen.

Rowe and Bowman collected try doubles as the Bulldogs dominated after the break. The Magpies were best served by lock Flynn Taylor, half back Cooper Venz and prop Ashton Schultz.

………………………………

Brothers Under 15s preserved a proud Grand Final-winning record by toppling Moranbah Miners 34-26.

Fresh from engineering St Patrick’s College to a State Regional Championship mid week, gun five eighth Adam McSherry and impact forward Eli Cookson again stamped their mark.

McSherry scored two of the Bulldogs six tries and booted five goals in a top display while Cookson turned in a powerhouse effort with support from fullback Calvin Ramos and half back Grange Womal.

………………………………

Cowboys signing Kayne Smith spearheaded Brothers’ 22-12 triumph over Souths Sharks in the Under 17 trophy decider.

The St Patrick’s College lock produced a non-stop effort along with five eighth Niko Djukic, centre Rylan Misztela and fullback Giovanni Kumani.

…………………………..

Proserpine Brahmans Under 14s avenged last year’s Grand Final loss to the Magpies with a hard fought 16-10 victory in a gripping encounter.

The Magpies led 10-4 following tries by bench centre David Phineasa and crafty hooker Mason Muscat before dynamic Brahmans half back and former Broncos Academy colt Koby Johnson-Follett turned the match with two crucial solo four pointers.

In a dramatic finish, talented Magpies fullback Marik Srsen had a try disallowed for an incorrect play the ball by winger Braithe Williams in the lead up.

……………………………………

Wests Tigers captured the Under 16s premiership trophy after a resounding 32-8 victory over Souths Sharks.

Led by emerging back rower Mark Morrow and forwards Kereama Gartner, Lachlan Starr, Jack Townsend and half Joshua Toby the Tigers powered to a six tries to two triumph.

Centre Jt Brice and fullback Mason Ryan-Ellul also impressed for the Wests side.

Queensland Schoolboys lock Cohen Jackson, prop Anthony Sorbello, five eighth Kaden Muscat, centre Billy Cruden and fullback Reuben Saron tried hard for the Sharks.

……………………………..

Brothers Blue lifted the Under 14s Plate with an 8-4 victory over Moranbah Miners.

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Brothers Bulldogs teams celebrate three premiership titles and a plate in the Junior Rugby League Mackay competition

Wests U16: Wests Tigers took out the U16 premiership title

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Nearly forty runners and supporters braved the very cooling but sunny sea breezes for the running of the annual Sladie Sand Dunes trail running event from Lamberts Beach. The Lamberts Beach/Slade Point nature reserve has an outstanding variety of options for a challenging event including soft sand, undulating sand dunes, bush trails and hilly ascents and descents with tricky steps and footfalls to carefully navigate.  

First competitor off a scratch start was the speedy Paul Mackenzie who revelled in the tough conditions ahead of Hamish Donnellan and Joe Grech. First female was a very in form Alana Knesevic who easily skimmed over the 12.9km three loop distance.  Excellent efforts were also seen by Grant Holmstrom, Shane Barben, Andrew Wallace, Walker Murray, Martin Lambert, Carolyn Mapes, June Bradley, Geeta Ariani, Lily Leven, Natasha Joynson, Carmel Mahon, David Isbister, Alan Zamparutti, Riley Matsen, Lauren Connor, Andrew Short, Leanne Connor and Mick Vivian.

This Saturday will be held with the very successful parkrun at the Botanic Gardens, West Mackay.  Due to the number of volunteers required to run this weekly event, Mackay Road Runners members will be on hand to assist as volunteers where needed.  The 5km event commences at 7am with no check in required however, if you have a parkrun barcode, please bring along to be scanned into the records.  Those runners who wish to add to the 5km distance are welcome to do additional loops of the scenic course.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Paul Mackenzie was ecstatic with his 3 loop 12.9km run

Whilst warming down post run, L-R Geeta Ariani, Alana Knesevic, Carolyn Mapes, Lauren Connor, Leanne Connor and Lily Leven get a great view of the breaching whales at Lamberts Beach

Walker Murray cruised the Slade Sand Dunes event

Natasha Joynson enjoying the Sunday morning off road loop style event at Lamberts Beach. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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No social bowls was played on Wednesday, August 23, however, the ladies did play the Graded 4’s competition and it was a very close one.

Lois Deguara’s team won the honours this year, with her team of Lyn Maguire as lead, Helen Fleming as second, Sheryl Cuttriss as third and Lois Deguara as skip, with a very nice 7 and 5.

Second was team Lorraine Lemke with 6 and 22, while third was team Lidia McCarthy with 6 and 9.

Super effort to all those who played in the competition.

There was once again no social bowls this Wednesday, August 30, with Graded 3 Bowl triples to be played.

Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine

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Lois Deguara’s Graded 4’s Competition winning team. Photo supplied

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Anne Hird Memorial Winners - Beanies For Brain Cancer

The Anne Hird Memorial Shield was played over the last three weeks with each Novice playing with three different ‘Over 100mp’ each week. Anne’s husband David Hird, who sponsors the event, presented the prizes which included Beanies for Brain Cancer. Diane Stokes finished on top of the leaderboard, but as Di was a previous winner of the shield the award went to Ian Gaskell the next best ‘Under 100mp’ Novice.

Weekly Results

Anne Hird Final Novice Results

Leader Diane Stokes Winner Ian Gaskell

3rd Peter Cowling 4th Anne Lutz

5th Susan Ross 5th Joy Block

Monday 21 August 2023 – ANNE HIRD MEMORIAL TROPHY Week 3 of 3

N/S E/W

1st Janine Rodgers / Barbara Tait 1st Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

2nd Diane Stokes / Joy Robinson 2nd Alan Brown / Victor Mason

3rd Shelley Lewis / Faye Wright 3rd Richard Wix / Ian Gaskell

Tuesday 22 August 2023 Evening - 4 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Janelle Conroy / Eric Leivesley 1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terrence Sheedy 2nd Sandra Morris / Frances Brown

Wednesday 23 August 2023 - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 2nd Alan Brown / Janelle Conroy

3rd Sandra Morris / Jan Harris 3rd Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan

Thursday Evening 24 August 2023 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 1st Terrence Sheedy / Richard Wix

2nd Susan Ross / Jan Harris 2nd Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch

Friday 25 August 2023 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Joyce Deguara / Toni Large 1st Gwen Liddell / Geoffrey Patterson

2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore

3rd Terrence Sheedy / Rohan Aturaliya 3rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

Saturday 26 August 2023 – 6 Table One Winner - Green Points

1st David Ting / Ming Ting 2nd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

3rd Nancy Wix / Richard Wix 4th Geoffrey Patterson / Terrence Sheedy

Sunday 27 August 2023 – Beginners 5 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell 1st Nancy Wix / Joy Block

2nd Annette Howe / Terrence Sheedy 2nd Sandy Patterson / Diane Stokes

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David Hird (Sponsor) Ian Cruickshank (Partner), Ian Gaskell (Winner) and Richard Wix (Partner), absent Eddie Kleise

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Doubles brought out fierce rivalry when the Jan Meng Memorial Trophy was decided at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre last Tuesday.

Don Boettcher and Fred Saliba won the trophy ahead of Pam Joyce and Gerry Synnott, while the consolation final was won by Donna Abbott and Bill Hey from Doug Dungavell and Cheryl Pearson.

The trophy is played annually by Tuesday morning fixture players in memory of the late Jan Meng, who for many years organized the fixtures.

Many thanks to Iris Grasso, Pam Joyce, Tony Bowman, Steve Mathieson and others who helped make sure the event ran smoothly.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixture results August 22, 2023:

Division 1:

Donic (Ivan Perkins, Anne Sheridan, Ian McKay) d Andro (Robbie Richards, Barry Patterson, George Camilleri) 8-3. Anne d Barry 9, -4, 9, -7, 11.

Joola (Janice Kent, Andrew McHugh, Geoff Denman) d Tibhar (Steven Whiting, Tim Shehan, Vince Boeske) 6-5. Vince d Janice -5, 12, 6, -6, 7.

Butterfly (Graeme Walker, Emma Widdup, Allan Edwards) d Radak (Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake, Graham Brake) 6-5. Graham d Graeme -9, 5, -8, 8, 8.

Division 2:

Xiom (Duncan Sheridan, Duncan Treloar, Ishan Rana) d Yasaka (Andrea Nicholson, Peter Goodson) 8-3. Ishan/Duncan d Andrea/Peter -10, -10, 8, 9, 8.

Stiga (Leo Gilbert, Tony Bowman, Donna Abbott) d Victas (Mark Sleeman, Steve Mathieson, Steve Crocker) 7-4. Mark d Donna 9, -10, -9, 3, 8.

Gewo (Trent Day, Lily Boland, Matthew West) d Nittaku (David Ting, Will VanDeKaa, Daniel Warfield) 7-4. Matthew d Daniel 6, -6, 10, -9, 7.

Division 3:

Zeta (David Symons, Bill Hey) d Epsilon (Anaya Reelh, Virginia Clayton) 6-3. Bill d Anaya 9, 10, -6, -8, 9.

Delta (Aarnav Reelh, Val Austin, Michael Ibbotson) d Gamma (Craig VanDeKaa, Mark Stam, Alok Rana) 6-5. Aarnav v Mark 10, 5, -7, -9, 11.

Alpha (Ollie Hamelink, Rymer Tabulo) d Beta (Simon Hogan, Kade Wright, Nehmat Dhaliwal) 6-5. Rymer/Ollie d Kade/Simon 7, 7, -10, 11.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning Jan Meng Memorial Doubles Tournament:

Don Boettcher/Fred Saliba d Pam Joyce/Gerry Synnott; consolation Donna Abbott/Bill Hey d Doug Dungavell/Cheryl Pearson.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Fred Saliba and Don Boettcher have a firm grip on the Jan Meng Memorial Trophy, which they won from Gerry Synnott and Pam Joyce Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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From Grand Final heartbreak to undefeated Queensland Regional champions in the space of twelve months – that is the fascinating journey experienced by the Year 10 St Patrick’s College Mackay rugby league team.

The Cowboys Challenge Shield winners backed up their Grand Final heroics with a resounding 44-0 victory over Rockhampton’s Emmaus College in the State Regional Championship decider at BB Print Stadium.

It was another mighty performance from Tom Gaviglio’s all-conquering charges as they capped a memorable 2023 season with back-to-back trophies.

Turn the clock back twelve months and several members of the current Mackay squad were left gutted after conceding a try after the bell in the 2022 Cowboys Challenge Grand Final against Kirwan State High.

Their mission to succeed this season came to fruition with superb efforts in both championship finales.

From the moment livewire winger Trae Cora posted a hat-trick of tries to give his side a 16-0 lead at the break, there was no stopping the rampant St Patrick’s lineup.

Cora’s third try was a special after gun half back Adam McSherry burst through and off loaded to powerhouse forward Mark Morrow who linked with the flanker to score in a sweeping 60 metre movement.

The tries flowed after the interval with centre Billy Cruden dashing over from a passing rush; the quick-stepping McSherry and forward Declan Grady bursting through to nab fine solo tries before pivot Cooper Cavill completed the rout with a deserved double.

Impact forward Lincoln Hale booted the final conversion after number one kicker McSherry (3) and Cora (2) had earlier potted goals.

Back rower Morrow – who is contracted to the Canberra Raiders – was the best forward on ground and menaced the Emmaus defence with his bullocking runs and jarring defence.

Other players to impress were centre Norm Campbell, fullback Hamish Donohue and forwards Kereama Gartner, hooker Cooper Deguara, Eli Cookson and Liam Dickens.

………………………………………………………

MEANWHILE

Records continue to tumble for schoolboys rugby league powerhouse St Patrick’s College Mackay.

The Aaron Payne Cup winners roared into this week’s Queensland State Championship decider against Palm Beach-Currumbin State High School after slamming Rockhampton’s Emmaus College 28-6 in a State semi-final at BB Print Stadium.

It was another polished performance by Ian Schifilliti’s colts, who are chasing their first State Championship title in 23 years.

Talented winger Bailey Anderson demonstrated his scoring prowess by grabbing three of the Mackay team’s five tries in a standout performance.

A highlight was Anderson’s second four pointer on the stroke of half time after slick work by half back whiz Jaxon Purdue and sharp centre Tenzin Contor to give St Patrick’s a handy 16-0 lead.

Aided by a string of penalties and with promising halves Clancy Hohn and Isaac Walker calling the shots, the Emmaus side applied plenty of pressure – only to be met by ferocious St Patrick’s defence.

Earlier, the elusive Anderson crossed for the opening try after seven minutes – the result of a passing rush – before the skilful Purdue strolled over to score from dummy half to give St Patrick’s a ten-point advantage.

When the quick-stepping Hohn sliced through to nab a crucial try after the interval it gave the Emmaus side a glimmer of hope.

Anderson posted his hat-trick when he combined with Contor to score off a swirling Purdue kick before Hunter Harris potted a penalty goal to give the Mackay boys a 24-6 lead.

Dashing centre Will Shears sealed a comprehensive victory when he wrong-footed the Emmaus defence to collect a fine solo try before the bell.

St Patrick’s forwards provided the platform for success with hooker Xavier Kerrisk, lock Kayne Smith, Harrison Considine, Tyler Shandiman, Cohen Jackson, Diesel Costigan, Jake Bryan and Reece Morris turning in dominant performances.

In the other semi-final, Palm Beach-Currumbin State High lifted their 14th Allan Langer Trophy since 1993 after edging out reigning National Schoolboys Cup champions Ipswich State High 16-12 at Langlands Park.

PBC were best served by dynamic fullback and Player of the Match Ray Puru and middle forwards Brady Turner and Jett Jackson.

Now the scene is set for an enthralling tussle between two of Queensland’s most famous rugby league nurseries for the Phil Hall Cup.

The Reds nursery has produced 52 NRL players including former Kangaroos Ben Ikin and Darius Boyd and a prominent list of half backs in New Zealand international Jahrome Hughes, Cody Walker, Jamal Fogarty, Tom Dearden, Toby Sexton and recent Gold Coast Titans debutant Tom Weaver, who skippered PBC’s 2021 State Championship-winning side.

St Patrick’s were last crowned State champions back in 2000 – the same year Grant Rovelli’s super colts lifted the Confraternity Shield.

By Chris Karas

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St Patrick’s College Mackay players savour their Queensland Regional Championship victory over Emmaus College Rockhampton. Photo by Michelle Bettini

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A tradition of football excellence returns to the region this month when Mackay Rangers FC prepares to mark four decades with its iconic 8 a Side Carnival.

Starting as a celebration of home ground enhancements back in 1983, the carnival has grown in stature and reputation.

Today, it stands proudly as one of Queensland’s remaining senior football carnivals.

This year's 40th Anniversary Carnival will be staged from Saturday September 30 to Sunday October 1 at the club’s home base at Eric Homan Park and promises to be special.

From Brisbane to Cairns, teams are gearing up to participate in the annual event - each bringing their own distinct flair and passion for the game.

With unique rules that include no offside and special points awarded not just for goals, the Carnival guarantees non-stop action and fervent competition for both men and women plus $6000 in prize money.

The Carnival also features a Penalty Shootout competition with raffles drawn throughout.

But it's more than just a game.

Mackay Rangers stalwart Liam Hutcheon said the Carnival has been a family affair with touching instances of fathers and sons and mothers and daughters sharing the pitch for the first time.

“The club is calling on the community to get behind this historic event,” said Hutcheon.

“Businesses are invited to contribute prizes, raffle items or gifts and such contributions not only elevate the event but also resonate with a broad audience of football enthusiasts, families and supporters,” he quipped.

“We are reaching out to let you know that there are still sponsorship opportunities available for this incredible weekend,” revealed Liam.

“Don't miss out on being a part of this thrilling event and getting your brand in front of a diverse audience of over 500 people attending our grounds each day,” he added.

Mackay Rangers FC continues to be at the forefront of nurturing football talent and passion in the region.

Through events like the 8 A Side Carnival, they not only provide entertainment but also contribute to the future of football in Queensland.

Nominations are now open and due September 17.

If you're interested in joining as a sponsor or would like more information contact Liam Hutcheon at hutcho_94@hotmail.com or Andrew Susani – Andrews@Coveng.com

For those interested in supporting or attending, more details can be found on Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/mkyrangersfc

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Mackay Rangers FC will host their 40th Anniversary 8 A Side Carnival on the weekend of September 30 to October 1 at Eric Homan Park

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In a play that would make any basketball enthusiast proud, the 2023 Mackay Basketball NBL1 fundraising game and charity singlet auction, held in July, has shattered records, amassing an impressive $32,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia.

The impressive figure of $32,000, powered by raffles conducted during the event and the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors annual charity singlet auction, soared past the previous record of $30,000 achieved in 2021.

Last week, Mackay Basketball General Manager and McDonald’s Meteors NBL1 Head Coach Joel Khalu presented a cheque to Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) North Australia Community Engagement Executive Samantha Lee, at the Ronald McDonald Family Room located in the Mackay Base Hospital.

It’s a slam dunk for local families who need a home-away-from-home while their children are in hospital.

“Mackay Basketball is extremely proud to use its platform to raise funds for such a worthwhile cause,” Khalu said.

“We’re stoked that our basketball community can contribute to Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia, who support the Ronald McDonald Family Room at Mackay Base Hospital. RMHC helps ensure that sick kids and their families in our region will get the support they need, when needed,” he added.

“Mackay Basketball are also extremely grateful to everybody who attended the game, donated selflessly, bought raffle tickets and placed bids on the singlets. As a sporting family we’re very lucky to have so many people willing to put their hand in their pockets and help make a difference.”

RMHC North Australia Community Engagement Executive Samantha Lee also thanked Mackay Basketball.

“We’re blown away by this donation, it’s an absolutely amazing effort and we are very grateful,” Lee said.

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

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Mackay Basketball General Manager Joel Khalu (Left) and Ronald McDonald House Charities North Australia Community Engagement Executive Samantha Lee (Right) at the cheque presentation. Photo supplied

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Alf Padgen at 90 years of age has been playing lawn bowls for more than 40 years after originally starting at Gargett.

Nowadays, Alf is a dual member at Mackay and Wests Tigers, but regularly teams up with Albert Wicks on Tuesdays to revive their bowling achievements as partners in District Pairs and Triples Championships.

While Alf is deadly with his bowling arm, he always encourages novice bowlers in the finer points of bowling techniques.

During the week, the club has been hosting Mackay State High School students in a 12 week course as part of their grade 12 Sport and Recreation subject.

The Cattle Creek Shield was played last weekend with the club winning against North Mackay, Marian, and Sarina on the Saturday and playing Northern Beaches on Sunday in the final, with Northern Beaches winning.

Congratulations to Players from Mackay Club J Smith, G Collum, R Casey, T Mayfield, P Carter, C Marks, G Edmonds, N Wilson, D Wootton, P Molloy, B Robertson, R Blanchard, T Hollows, A Gibson, E Roberts, B Bridger.

Mackay Club Ladies are hosting Ladies District Champion of Champions Triples on September 14 and 15.

This weekend is Pratt Cup, facing Wests Tigers first up at Mackay City Bowls Club.

Teams for weekend:

Singles: Ross Dunstan.

Pairs: Steve Cassidy, Noel Wilson.

Fours: Bruce Bridger, Grant Edmonds, Antony Gibson, Col Marks.

Tuesday Afternoon Social Bowls welcomed Bryce and Heather from Bundaberg who joined local for a roll up.

Winners of Winners: Leanne Jenner, Barry Jenner, Peter Taaffe.

Winner of Losers: Alan Bartlett, Col Marks.

Thursday afternoon Scroungers saw 17 players with Grant Edmonds playing Peter Carter in the final and Grant coming out the eventual winner.

Friday Social saw winners Marie Mayfield and Gary Williamson.

Club Competition starts on Friday afternoon with Ladies 2 Bowl Triples and Consistency Singles.

E Clements, J Nelson, R Schatkowski v H Truscott, L Caban, W Pomeroy.

Dot McNamara v Carol Savage.

Men's Open Triples: S Makin, C Molloy, P Molloy v K Tranberg, D Wootton, N Wilson.

Sunday Afternoon Men's B Singles: B Williams v R Mroz, D Currey v R Bell

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Alf Padgen

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The recent 2023 Australian Cross Country Championships was the latest platform for three Mackay athletes to post impressive performances.

Ayla Moon, as well as brothers Oliver and Toby Rule, proudly represented Queensland, with Toby finishing with a podium placing.

Held in the capital city of Canberra last weekend, these dedicated athletes showcased their remarkable endurance and determination, showing why they earned their well-deserved spots in Queensland's elite running teams.

Ayla, competing in the 11 years age group, has proven herself as a rising star in the sport. Her impressive performance at the All Schools Cross Country States showcased her determination, as she climbed from 12th place to a remarkable 6th place on the challenging 3km course. This victory secured her spot in the Queensland School Team, marking her debut in the state-level cross country event.

Ayla placed 31st out of the 52 runners.

Brothers Oliver and Toby Rule have consistently showcased their prowess on the track. Oliver's training led him to an impressive 2nd place in the 8km race at the Mackay Marina Run. His recent participation in the Townsville Running Festival's 10km road race, where he matched his personal best and secured 5th place, further solidified his position in Queensland's cross country scene. Similarly, Toby's journey has been marked by successes. A strategic performance at the Queensland Athletics State Cross Country Championships earned him 2nd place in the 16-year-old age group and an impressive 6th place overall. Toby's dedication and growth paved the way for his selection in the Queensland team.

At the Australian Cross Country Championships, Oliver ran a personal best time over the 8km course. Toby finished 18th overall in the Under 18 6km race, placing 5th in his age group, finishing 3rd overall for his age amongst Australian athletes. His impressive time earning him a national bronze medal.

Following the championships, Ayla, Oliver, and Toby will shift their focus to the upcoming NQ Championships in Mackay and the Bridge to Brisbane in October.

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Toby Rule (centre) led the charge early to bring home bronze at the 2023 Australian Cross Country Championships held in Canberra last weekend. Photo credit: Belinda Rule

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The Marian Ladies Bowls Club hosted the Marian Master 4’s last week, culminating in an exciting grand final.  

Held on Monday August 14, with the finals on Wednesday August 16, the Masters were a testament to the ladies strength and determination.

With 16 teams, and only the top four qualifying for the semi-finals on Wednesday morning, and the grand finals on Wednesday afternoon, the competition was heated.

The winners for the Masters was Robyn Deveraux's team of Gail Meng, Val Pilcher, Dealia Walsh and Robyn Deveraux, with Lorraine Lemke, Lesley Baumgarten, Jean Zamparuti and Lorrain Silman coming close in second place.

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The winning team of Dealia Walsh, Robyn Deveraux, Katie Moohin, Gail Meng, and Val Pilcher

Jean Zamparutti, Lorraine Lemke, Katie Moohin, Lorraine Silman and Lesley Baumgarten. Photos supplied

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Schools from Mackay, Cairns, Townsville and Capricornia descended upon Harrup Park last week as it hosted the AFLQ Schools Cup North Queensland Championships.

North Queensland’s up and coming Australian rules football players from Junior, Primary and Secondary male and female divisions battled it out from August 15-16, with the six triumphant schools to compete at State Finals in Maroochydore in October.

It was the first time Mackay hosted the tournament which brought over 1,000 visitors to the region, with AFL Queensland agreeing to bring it back in 2024.

“We absolutely love coming to Mackay,” said AFL Queensland's Participation and Programs Manager - Schools, Inclusion and Diversity, Jeff Neumann

“Mackay Regional Council are great partners of us bringing it here with a really big push to have it here in 2023 and 2024.

“We want to make sure school footy is fully accessible to every student, no matter your location or your total school enrolment.

“The results are a great outcome, but the most important thing is we’re bringing all of these schools together to compete.”

Local schools Mackay West Primary School (Primary Male, Primary Female), St Patrick's College (Junior Female, Senior Female) and Moranbah State High School (Junior Male, Senior Male, Senior Female) all competed, with Moranbah being the most represented school from the region.

“For Moranbah, to have three teams, it’s a big achievement for a state high school 200 kilometres from the coast,” said Moranbah State High School Senior Male Coach Jason McKane.

“We’re a proud club, a lot of kids play footy together, and then school footy gives those kids who don’t play club footy on the weekend a chance to experience AFL and grow the game.”

Moranbah State High School’s Senior Female placed third in their division, while the Senior Male and Junior Male teams placed fourth.

“We had a lot of fun and even though we lost both our games, I reckon all the boys had fun,” said Moranbah State High School Senior Male Captain Harry Malone.

“(Moranbah) is a small club but a lot of people get around it.”

Results

Senior Female

The Cathedral College (Rockhampton) 22 def Ryan Catholic College (Townsville) 21

Senior Male

St Augustine’s College (Cairns) 77 def Chanel College (Gladstone) 23

Junior Female

St Andrew's Catholic College (Cairns) 22 def Emmaus College (Rockhampton) 11

Junior Male

St Augustine’s College (Cairns) 49 def St. Brendan's College (Yeppoon) 48

Primary Female

Farnborough State School 27 def Ryan Catholic College (Townsville) 4

Primary Male

Holy Cross (Cairns) 57 def Mackay West Primary School 0

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Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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The Mackay Surf Life Saving Club is excited to welcome returning and new Nippers for the upcoming Nippers season, with a Sign On Day this Sunday, August 27.

Come along to the club headquarters on Mackay’s Harbour Beach from 10am to 12pm this Sunday and learn the lifesaving sport of Nippers.

With a series of ‘come and try’ days scheduled for September, this is a great chance to meet the crew and get all the information you need.

Complete with surf education, fitness, and beach skills, these ‘come and try’ mornings are a fantastic chance to give it a go, with the club providing stinger suits, boards, and every other piece of equipment.

“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 oriented and welcoming sport.”

For more information about Nippers, contact the Lexie Schiffer, the Junior Activity Coordinator, on juniors@mackayslsc.com.au

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Nippers brings confidence, teamwork and mateship to your children

Mackay Nippers are small in numbers but usually dominate when taking on big clubs.  Harry Madden (front) in the process of taking out the U10 Beach Flags at last year’s Branch Championships. Photos supplied.

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Cape Hillsborough will be a sea of sails when Mackay’s Central Queensland Blokart Club (CQBC) holds its annual regatta from September 8 to 10.

Returning to the sandy flats for the 15th year, the CQBC Annual Cape Hillsborough Regatta has become the second biggest blokarting event in Australia, welcoming competitors from Victoria, southeast Queensland, Capricornia, Whitsundays and north Queensland.

With strong links to sailing, blokarting is a rapidly growing sport that involves maneuvering a wind-powered, three-wheeled kart along the hard, sandy expanses of the beach, following similar rules and format to yacht racing.

CQBC President and Founder David Moore grew up sailing yachts in New Zealand and discovered the sport after moving to Mackay and working in waterskiing and catamaran sailing on Brampton Island.

“It’s my love of sailing that put me there,” Mr Moore said.

“As I got older, I was getting a little bit old for getting out on these high-speed yachts.

“Blokarting is what we call armchair sailing; you’re sitting in a seat with a seat belt and helmet on.

“You’ll find a lot of blokarters are retired people because you can still do your sailing, but you can do it without wearing yourself out with old age.”

Competitors will race two configurations of kart - production class and performance class - across four weight divisions for each configuration.

16 races will be held over the weekend, with an accumulation of points to determine the champions.

Operating under Marine Park Permits and Public Liability Insurance, Mr Moore encouraged the public to come along and have a look as he aims to get more people involved in the club.

“The public can bring a chair with them, sit under a gazebo, watch us silly buggers run around the track, be in the shade and have a day out,” he said.

There will also be a sausage sizzle and cold drinks available for purchase, with all money raised going back into the club.

Local blokarters will then travel to Yeppoon in February 2024 where National Titles are being held.

WHAT: CQBC 15th Annual Cape Hillsborough Regatta

WHEN: September 8 to 10

WHERE: Cape Hillsborough

This is a free event.

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David Moore founded the Central Queensland Blokart Club 18 years ago. Photo supplied

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The 1.609 kilometre out and back course was held from the beautiful Mackay Marina Breakwater precincts in perfectly cool and sunny running conditions for this year’s annual North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) Open Magic Mile and the Podiatry Mackay Junior Magic Mile.

All runners were very excited to run the 1609 metres distance on the spectacular breakwater, although not sure if they had time to take in the views in the fast and furious sprint distance event.  

The U13 and U18 Podiatry Mackay Magic Mile entrants raced first with the NQBP Mackay Magic Mile participants let out of the gates when the last junior crossed the finish line.  

U13’s Amelia Dobbin placed 1st ahead of Peppa Burchill, whilst in the boys, Aziel Dobbin claimed gold ahead of Hughie Bishop (2nd) and Duke Burchill (3rd).  

U18 girls had a scorching race with Abi Sweeney snatching first ahead of Lily Leven with Millie Bishop collecting bronze.  

The U18 male was also a sizzling affair with Toby Rule taking the top podium place ahead of very fast finishing Jarrod Mackie (2nd) and Luke Leven (3rd).  

The NQBP Open Magic Mile was a sprint from the start, with all runners vying for top prizes from local Marina businesses as well as valuable club championship points.  

The home straight saw an exciting sprint finish as Oliver Rule led from the bend in pole position, however, Angus Jacobs dug deep to outpace the youngster in the final 100 metres, desperately lunging across the finish line to claim victory.  

Nick Rewald had an amazing race behind the duo claiming third ahead of the quality field.

A welcome return to local racing was Demi Caldwell who had a sensational run to be rewarded with the top prize ahead of a gutsy effort by Alana Knesevic and newbie on the block, Greta Petersen.

The coveted Magic Mile Milo Award was presented to Jen White who enjoyed one of her best runs with the club since she became involved this year.  

This Sunday’s Sladie Sand Dunes trail run also doubles as a Pre Father’s Day weekend run, commencing at 7am from the Lamberts Beach playground.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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The Podiatry Mackay Junior Magic Mile off and running at the Mackay Marina Breakwater

Open male and female NQBP Mackay Magic Mile awardees, Alana Knesevic (2nd), Oliver Rule (2nd), Mackay Road Runners Club Patron Mr Col Meng, Angus Jacobs (1st), Nick Rewald (3rd), Greta Petersen (3rd) and Demi Caldwell (1st). Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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The Hostplus Cup Mackay Cutters had local fans cheering as they played out their last game of the 2023 season, achieving their first win at home for the season.

The beleaguered side secured their third win of the season, joining round 22 opponents Western Clydesdales on 10 premiership points and finishing the season 14th on the ladder.

In the first clash between the two sides since the Clydesdales returned to the state competition, the Toowoomba-based visitors drew first blood in the fourth minute before Cutters’ winger Walter Lauenstein scored a quickfire double to open the home side’s account.

A short kick off got the Clydesdales immediately back in the game, but a 28th minute try to interchange player Brandon Russell saw the Cutters hit the sheds with a 16-12 lead.

The home side then turned it on in the second half, showing the home crowd what they’re capable with tries to Kobe Bone in the 45th minute, Rayden Burns in the 67th and Bayley Gill in the 70th.

A consolation try to Clydesdales winger Jerome Taulaga came in the 74th minute before Cutters five-eighth fittingly put the icing on the cake, getting the crowd to their feet with a 77th minute try.

Five out of seven conversions for Brandon Finnegan saw the Mackay Cutters defeat the Western Clydesdales 38-18.

Earlier in the day, a huge second half comeback resulted in a thrilling two-point win for the Hastings Deering Colts Cutters again taking on the Western Clydesdales.

The see-sawing affair opened with a first minute try to Cutters hooker Seth McGilvray, before the visitors piled on three first half tries to finish 4-16 at the break.

The Cutters then crawled their way back into the contest with second half tries to Corey Shepherd, Kane Simon, Tyrese Parter and Liam Doherty.

With the lead changing back and forth, the Clydesdales five-eighth Nicholas Carrie secured a second half double, including a 75th minute try that had the scores at 28-26 with a kick to come.

Kai Duggan was unable to add the extras, the visitors falling two points short at full time.

The Hastings Deering Colts Mackay Cutters finished the 2023 season on 17 competition points, placing ninth on the ladder and falling agonisingly short of playing finals.

Both teams have already made key recruitments ahead of the 2024 season, including the signing of experienced international Mahe Fonua.

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Saturday saw wins to both the Hastings Deering Colts and Hostplus Cup Mackay Cutters sides. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Founders Teams Winners

After three weeks of fierce competition between eight teams with a minimum of four players, each playing with a different partner each week, Team Conroy has taken first place. Team Conroy consisted of Janelle Conroy, France Brown, Janet Hansen & Alan Brown.

Weekly Results

Monday 14 August 2023 – ANNE HIRD MEMORIAL TROPHY Week 2 of 3

N/S E/W

1st Diane Stokes / Debra Goodchild 1st Ian Gaskell / Edward Kleise

2nd Antonia Tarradas / Anne Lutz 2nd Joy Block / Monica Darley

3rd Jewel Schmidt / Nancy Martin 3rd Faye Wright / Mary Cruickshank

Tuesday 15 August 2023 Evening - 3 Table One Winner Mitchell Green Pts

1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan

2nd Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

3rd Alan Brown / Susan Gibson

Wednesday 16 August 2023 - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Joy Brunette / Don Poole 1st Eric Goodchild / David Ting

2nd Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild 2nd Josie Cowley / Barbara Tait

3rd Alan Brown / Janelle Conroy 3rd Terrence Sheedy / Eric Leivesley

Thursday Evening 17 August 2023 - 6 Table One Winner

1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

3rd Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy

Friday 18 August 2023 – NWP 16 of 23 - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole 1st David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd Terrence Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 2nd Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

3rd Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix 3rd Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell

Saturday 19 August 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown 1st David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd Terrence Sheedy / Faye Wright 2nd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

3rd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 3rd Geoffrey Patterson / Patricia Garner

Contributed by Joy Block

Janelle Conroy, Alan Brown, Frances Brown and Janet Hansen. Photo supplied

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Albert Wicks, 93, is Mackay Bowls Club’s oldest active member. Albert regularly plays social Triples on Tuesday using his original bowls with only a walking stick for balance.

Besides being a past committee member, Albert’s pervious bowling achievements include Club Pairs and Triples Championships, Senior Singles Champion as well as District Finalist in Pairs and Triples. Alberts experience and knowledge is invaluable for all bowlers, especially at Annual General Meetings.

Ross Dunstan competed in Men's Champion of Champions at North Mackay last weekend, giving it his best.

The Cattle Creek Shield will be played this weekend at Marian and Gargett Clubs.

Team 1: T Mayfield, B Crocker, R Casey, J Smith.

Team 2: N Wilson, G Edmonds, C Marks, P Carter.

Team 3: R Dunstan, R Blanchard, B Robertson, B Jenner.

Team 4: B Bridger, E Roberts, A Gibson, T Hollows.

Tuesday Bowls welcomed visitors Carol and Hugh from Port Pirie, Colin from Bendigo and Ned from Ballarat joining local bowlers.

Winner of Winners: Leanne Jenner, Barry Jenner, Peter Taaffe.

Winner of Losers: Julie Caban, Karina Dunn, Marie Mayfield.

Thursday Scroungers: Carol Savage def Mike Irving, Geoff Jolley.

Friday Social Play

Winners: Kirstine Robinson, Janice Nelson.

Runners Up: Peter Nelson, Erin Clements.

Close games were witnessed in Club Championships last weekend, continuing this weekend with Ladies Consistency Singles being played on Friday Afternoon; Ladies 2 Bowl Triples on Saturday Afternoon; Ladies U/65 Singles Sunday Morning; and Ladies 2 Bowl Triples, Men's Open Triples and Men's B Pairs on Sunday Afternoon.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Bowler Albert Wicks proves age is no barrier at 93 years old. Photo credit: Mike Irving

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Celebrate Dual Challenge Titles

Aaron Payne Cup

North Queensland Cowboys bound half back Jaxon Purdue demonstrated his class as rugby league powerhouse St Patrick’s College completed a unique championship double last week in Townsville.

The famous Mackay sporting nursery unveiled several Cowboys’ stars of the future when they slammed Kirwan State High 32-10 to lift the Aaron Payne Cup premiership trophy at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.

Played as a curtain raiser to the NRL clash between the Cowboys and Cronulla Sharks, the St Patrick’s colts proved too strong for their rivals with playmaker Purdue showing local supporters his array of skills in a taste of things to come.

Purdue’s outstanding display earned him the Player of the Grand Final and Most Valuable Player of the competition awards and capped a memorable 24 hours for the college.

The previous day, St Patrick’s toppled Ignatius Park College 24-10 to clinch the Cowboys Challenge Shield at the Mackay Junior League Fields.

Both St Patrick’s teams etched their names in the record books by winning the prestigious North Queensland schoolboy competitions undefeated.

Ian Schifilliti’s first grade charges overcame an injury crisis to regain the Cup with Queensland Schoolboys reps Purdue and hooker Xavier Kerrisk leading the charge.

Cowboys fans would have marvelled at the performance of Purdue, who scored two of St Patrick’s six tries and created others to show why he is regarded one of the best young prospects in the State.

The talented half - along with the crafty Kerrisk, centre Will Shears and lock forward Kayne Smith - is contracted to the Cowboys and ready to take the leap into professional ranks in 2024.

Elusive winger Bailey Anderson also collected a try double with five eighth Bailey Venz and lock Kayne Smith grabbing four pointers as the St Patrick’s juggernaut dominated from the outset.

Goalkicking winger Hunter Harris completed the rout with three conversions.

Rising fullback Hayden Cumming, centres Shears and Tenzin Contor and wingers Anderson and Harris capitalised on the slick service from halves Purdue and Venz to launch many an attacking raid.

In the engine room it was young props Cohen Jackson and Tyler Shandiman, back rowers Diesel Costigan, Harrison Considine and lock forward Smith that paved the way with non-stop displays.

Coach Schifilliti saluted the efforts of his all-conquering unit, heaping special praise on interchange players Hudson Clark, Reece Morris, Will Whippy, Darcy Daly, Javen Ramsamy and Jake Bryan.

“This Grand Final victory means so much to the boys who have put in hours of hard toil to reclaim the trophy,” revealed Schifilliti.

“It was a magnificent team effort and a title triumph so thoroughly deserved,” he added.

The proud mentor also praised his coaching staff in Assistant Chad Buckby and trainers Shane Mau, Will Gilbert and Patrick Daly.

“Everyone contributed to this incredible Cup win” concluded Schifilliti.

St Patrick’s will now focus on winning the 2023 Queensland State Championship and square off with Emmaus College Rockhampton in a challenge that doubles as a National Schoolboys Cup State semi-final in Mackay this week.

Winner of this clash advances to the State Championship Final to play the winner of the Allan Langer Trophy showdown between Palm Beach-Currumbin State High and Ipswich State High for the Phil Hall Cup.

Cowboys Challenge

St Patrick’s College have regained the Cowboys Challenge Shield after toppling rivals Ignatius Park Townsville 24-10 in the 2023 trophy decider staged at the Mackay Junior League Fields.

Talented hooker and skipper Cooper Deguara was named the official Player of the Grand Final for his tireless two try effort in a mighty performance from the undefeated champions.

For coach Tom Gaviglio it was a deserved premiership in his first year at the helm - with the Shield triumph erasing the memories of last season’s heart breaking after-the-bell loss to Kirwan State High.

Emerging forwards Mark Morrow, Ryan John, Caleb O’Brien and Declan Grady turned in superb performances along with fullback Hamish Donohue, half back Adam McSherry, five eighth Cooper Cavell, centre Norm Campbell and winger Trae Cora.

Key moment in the match was John’s classic try-saving tackle on a flying Ignatius Park fullback Lincoln Baker with the Mackay boys leading 18-10.

St Patrick’s lost Queensland Under 15 Schoolboys prop Sam Anderson early in the match with a damaged knee but led 14-0 at the break following tries by Deguara, a rampaging Morrow and prop Kereama Gartner.

Utility Billy Cruden scored after the break to extend St Patrick’s lead before Ignatius Park hit back with two quick tries.

Deguara sealed victory with a smart try to cap a best-on-ground display.

St Patrick’s will now meet Dolphins Cup champions Emmaus College Rockhampton in a Queensland Regional Grand Final challenge.

By Chris Karas

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St Patrick's College players and officials celebrate their Aaron Payne Cup rugby league championship triumph at Queensland Country Bank Stadium

St Patrick's and Queensland Schoolboys half back Jaxon Purdue received the official Player of the Grand Final and the competition's Most Valuable Player awards for his superb performances in 2023. Photo credit: Michelle Bettini

Mackay Cutters Head Coach Michael Comerford with St Patrick’s hooker and Player of the Grand Final Cooper Deguara (left) and boom forward Mark Morrow

Jubilant St Patrick’s College players and officials celebrate their Cowboys Challenge premiership win over Ignatius Park College

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The North Queensland Sportstar Awards nominations will close at midnight on Friday September 1.

With 11 categories to nominate into, and more than $18,000 up for grabs, there is something for every sports star, recognising achievements of individuals and players who put their very best into their sport.

North Queensland Sports Foundation director and Mackay Regional Council councillor Laurence Bonaventura said the planning committee has been pleased with the response so far.

“We’ve received a good response from the North Queensland region with almost 100 nominations received to date,” Cr Bonaventura said.

“There are some key areas though where we are still chasing more nominations, including the team sports categories, service to sport and senior sporting categories,” he said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for our local sporting heroes to be recognised in their hometown, so I encourage everyone to take the time to nominate Mackay region individuals and teams who have performed exceptionally at their sport.”

The 11 categories include:

• NQ Sportstar of the Year.

• NQ Rural and Remote Sportstar of the Year.

• Junior Sportstar of the Year.

• NQ Junior Rural and Remote Sportstar of the Year.

• Athlete with Disability Sportstar of the Year.

• Sports Team of the Year.

• Junior Sports Team of the Year.

• Masters Sportstar of the Year.

• Volunteer of the Year.

• NQ Service to Sport.

• Sporting Excellence Award.

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To Bring Home A Swag Of Medals

On the weekend of August 11-13, the Mackay Cyclones had nine athletes compete at the 2023 Hancock Prospecting Queensland Short Course Championships in Brisbane.

Over the course of the championships, the club achieved 26 top 10 spots, 50 out of 54 personal bests, five gold medals, three silver medals and two bronze.

Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club was given a ranking of 38th out of the 113 clubs in Queensland for the event.

It was some of the best results for the competing kids who trained hard in the lead up to these championships, their hard work achieving them some huge personal bests.

Coach of Mackay Cyclones Leigh-Anne Pokarier said all athletes stepped up to "next level racing ", as personal best times were not just beaten, they were smashed.

The team culminated everything that was worked on leading into the state event and put it on display to perfection.

Competing at the championships was Max Vernon, 15, 14-year-olds Jarek Taylor, Vaughn Wyatt, Mackenzie Neilson, Anneka O'Donnell and Izabella Wills, 12-year-olds Kaiden Neilsen and Jessica Britton and Dakota Daniel, 11.

Prior to the event, Izabella Wills had been informed of her selection for the Matt Levy Inclusive Futures Scholarship, one of five prestigious scholarships meaning she has been identified as a future talent for the Paralympic pathway.

Read on to find out how each swimmer finished.

Izabella Wills - S10 Multiclass swimmer

5 x Gold Medals (50m and 100m backstroke and 50m, 100m and 200m freestyle)

Kaiden Neilsen

1 x Silver Medal (400m freestyle, breaking the North Queensland record)

2 x Bronze Medals (200m freestyle, 200m individual medley)

Top 10 finishes in 200m backstroke (4th), 100m butterfly (5th), 100m backstroke (7th) and 50m backstroke (10th)

Mackenzie Neilsen

1 x Silver Medal (200m butterfly)

Top 10 finishes in 100m butterfly (5th) and 200m individual medley (9th)

Dakota Daniel (at her first ever state short course meet)

1 x Silver Medal (200m individual medley)

Top 10 finishes in 100m freestyle (6th), 400m freestyle (7th), 50m freestyle (8th), 100m butterfly (9th) and 200m freestyle (9th)

Jarek Taylor

Top 10 finishes in 200m backstroke (9th), 100m backstroke (10th) and 50m backstroke (10th)

Vaughn Wyatt

Top 10 finishes in 200m breaststroke (8th)

Contributed by Alisha Ness

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Back row L-R Anneka O’Donnell, Max Vernon, Vaughn Wyatt, Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier, Front row L-R Jessica Britton, Mackenzie Neilsen, Dakota Daniel, Kaiden Neilsen, Izabella Wills

Kaiden Neilsen

Mackenzie Neilsen

Dakota Daniel

Izabella Wills

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night results August 15, 2023:

Division 1:

Tibhar (Steven Whiting, Tim Sheehan, Vince Boeske) d Donic (Tony Bowman, Anne Sheridan, Ian McKay) 8-3. Tim d Ian 2, -9, -9, 4, 5.

Radak (Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake, Graham Brake) d Joola (Janice Kent, Andrew McHugh, Geoff Denman) 7-4. Mick d Andrew -10, 7, -9, 7, 10.

Butterfly (Emma Widdup, Allan Edwards, Graeme Walker) d Andro (George Camilleri, Robbie Richards, Barry Patterson) 8-3. Allan d George 6, 8, -7, 11.

Division 2:

Xiom (Duncan Sheridan, Duncan Treloar, Ishan Rana) d Victas (Mark Sleeman, Steve Mathieson, Steve Crocker) 7-4. Duncan T d Mark 8, 6, -14, -7, 6.

Stiga (Tony Bowman, Donna Abbott) d Nittaku (Will VenDeKaa, John McGee) 7-2. Tony d Will -6, -10, 7, 11, 8.

Gewo (Lily Boland, Matthew West, Trent Day) d Yasaka (Noreen Fredericksen, Andrea Nicholson, Peter Goodson) 9-2. Matthew d Peter -9, 7, 3, -6, 8.

Division 3:

Epsilon (Anaya Reelh, Jye Callander, Virginia Clayton) d Delta (Aarnav Reelh, Val Austin, Pawan Goti) 6-5. Anaya d Pawan -10, 3, -12, 8, 11.

Beta (Simoin Hogan, Nehmat Dhaliwal) drew Gamma (Craig VanDeKaa, Mark Stam) 4-all. Nahmat d Craig 7, 7, -10, -7, 7.

Alpha (Rymer Tabulo, Ollie Hamelink) d Zeta (Dave Symons, Bill Hey) 5-4. Rymer/Ollie d Bill/David -19, -6, 3, 7, 8.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures August 15, 2023:

Division 1:

Green (Charlie Payne, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) d Yellow (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Bryan Marshall) 7-5. Charlie/Pam d Donna/Peter 8, -3, 6, -12, 11.

Blue (George Camilleri, John McGee, Don Boettcher) d Red (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Kevin Abbott) 7-5. Steve d John -9, -9, 3, 5, 5.

Division 2:

Orange (Helen Ware, Cheryl Pearson, Gerry Synnott) d White (Kim Challender, Michael Ibbotson, Kim Daffy) 7-5. Kim C d Gerry -8, 12, 1, 12.

Purple (Iris Grasso, Ken Best, Judi Hicks) d Pink (Robyn Bushell, John Hamelink, Fred Saliba) 7-5. Ken d Robyn 8, 6, -9, -10, 5.

Division 3:

Tan (Madge Saunders, Bill Hey) d Grey (Ian Dodds, Allison Day) 5-4. Ian d Madge -9, -9, 11, 4, 9.

Aqua (Pam Keune, Glenda Dutton) d Lime (Carmel Cristaldi, Myles Dutton) 7-3. Glenda d Carmel 3, -3, 4, 5.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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DOUBLE TROUBLE: Kim Daffy and Marie Taylor in doubles action at Tuesday morning Mackay Table Tennis fixtures. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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Friday Fever

Coral Morgan wanted another avenue for people of all ages to play table tennis in a friendly, non-competitive environment, so she instigated the Friday morning social session at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre several years ago.

Coral is pictured fourth from left in front, with her daughter Delma Knight behind, and the happy group at last week’s session.

The session is open to players of all ages and standards, and equipment is available.

Coral is a life member of Mackay Table Tennis and has been involved in the sport for many years.

Drop in on a Friday morning and give it a try, you’ll enjoy it.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Friday morning social table tennis players. Photo supplied

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Social ladies bowls results for August 16, the winning team consisted of Helen Fleming, Bev McDonald and Carmel Bell.

Runners up were Sue Roscoe, Jan Comelli, and Doris Dodds.

Thursday had three finals played on the rinks at Goosies Sport and Recreation Club with some very exciting and closely contested games. The Under 70’s game was between Hilary Jones-Rowan and Donna Gordon.

Both ladies were keen on the green, but Hilary took out the win.

The final of the clubs Consistency Competition was very exciting to watch between Lois Deguara and Nuggy Pratt.

Very consistent bowls were needed to win this event and both ladies showed their prowess.

Lois Deguara was the eventual winner.

Contributed by Suanne Hazledine

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Under 70’s L-R Winner Hilary Jones-Rowan and Donna Gordon

Over 70’s L-R Marie Duck and winner Pat O’Neill

Consistency L-R winner Lois Deguara and Nuggy Pratt. Photos supplied

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures August 8, 2023:

Division 1:

Joola (Andrew McHugh, Geoff Denman, Janice Kent) d Andro (George Camilleri, Robbie Richards, Barry Patterson) 7-4. Andrew d Barry -6, -4, 5, 2, 11.

Tibhar (Vince Boeske, Steven Whiting, Tim Shehan) d Radak (Mick Ruhl, Graham Brake) 7-4. Steven/Vince d Graham/Mick -16, -10, 5, 8, 7.

Butterfly (Neil Brown, Allan Edwards, Graeme Walker) d Donic (Ivan Perkins, Anne Sheridan, Ian McKay) 6-5. Neil d Ivan -20, 5, -9, 5, 10.

Division 2:

Stiga (Tony Bowman, Donna Abbott, Leo Gilbert) d Yasaka (Noreen Fredericksen, Andrea Nicholson, Peter Goodson) 10-1. Peter d Donna -8, 7, -3, 12, 9.

Victas (Steve Crocker, Mark Sleeman, Steve Mathieson) d Nittaku (Will VanDeKaa, John McGee) 8-3. John d Steve 9, 8, -10,  -9, 4.

Xiom (Duncan Sheridan, Duncan Treloar, Ishan Rana) d Geow (Amanda Wright, Matthew West, Trent Day) 7-4. Duncan d Matthew -10, 4, 6, -9, 5.

Division 3:

Gamma (Mark Stam, Craig VanDeKaa) d Zeta (David Symons, Bill Hey) 5-4. Dave d Craig -6, 5, 3, 4.

Delta (Saisha Palod, Aarnav Reelh, Val Austin) d Beta (Simon Hogan, Kade Wright, Nehmat Dhalwal) 6-5. Kade d Val 8, -7, 7, -9, 3.

Alpha (Rymer Tabulo, Misha Palod, Ollie Hamelink) d Epsilon (Anaya Reelh, Jye Callander, Virginia Clayton) 7-4. Ollie d Anaya 11, 6, -6, -9, 8.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures August 8, 2023:

Division 1:

Blue (George Camilleri, John McGee, Don Boettcher) d Green (Charlie Payne, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) 7-5. George d Charlie -8, 9, 5, -11, 9.

Red (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Kevin Abbott) d Yellow (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Bryan Marshall) 7-5. Donna d Branko 9, -9, -6, 10, 8.

Division 2:

Purple (Iris Grasso, Michael Ibbotson, Judi Hicks) d White (Marie Taylor, Kim Daffy) 7-5. Marie/Kim d Iris/Judi -7, 9, 7, -5, 11.

Orange (Helen Ware, Louise Gould, Gerry Synnott) d Pink (Robyn Bushell, John Hamelink) 8-4. John d Gerry -8, 9, 12, -14, 7.

Division 3:

Grey (John Pratt, Ian Dodds, Allison Day) d Lime (Cheryl Pearson, Carmel Cristaldi, Myles Dutton) 9-3. Ian d Cheryl 3, -3, -2, 5, 4.

Tan (Cheryl Aprato, Madge Saunders, Bill Hey) d Aqua (Pam Keune, Val Hazeldene, Glenda Dutton) 8-4. Pam/Glenda d Cheryl/Bill -8, -8, 9, 12, 6.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Cheryl Pearson hits out in Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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The Great Barrier Reef Rays, the premier cricket team representing Mackay and North Queensland, proudly celebrated a noteworthy weekend at the Century Cricket competition. In the Rays inaugural year, they made it all the way to the grand final, although were not able to come away with the championship. Despite not securing the win in the finale, the team achieved significant milestones and garnered popularity amongst fans.

Century Cricket Group is a privately owned cricket company co-founded by successful healthcare businessman Stuart Giles, Australian cricket great Ian Healy and world-renowned commentator Mark Nicholas, alongside cricket entrepreneurs and founders of the Australian Cricket Institute Nick Fitzpatrick and Joel Hamilton. The competition featured elite players such as NSW captain, Dan Hughes, Nick Larking of the Melbourne Stars, former Australian Fast Bowler Ben Laughlin and a host of other first-class players. The Rays' participation illuminates the vast potential and the promise of cricketing talent from the North.

With 7 players from Mackay and another three hailing from North Queensland there was considerable representation showing their ability at the competition.

A club representative said, “We were honoured to have the dynamism of former Australian Fast Bowler Ben Laughlin, the expertise of Melbourne Star Nick Larkin, and some emerging stars from Brisbane in our team, including the competition's leading run-scorer, Angus Lovell.

“The opportunity to play with these elite professionals was invaluable for our North QLD men.”

Their inclusion offered invaluable experiences for the Northern players, enhancing their exposure and learning.

“While we may not have clinched the win in the final, our Mackay and North QLD team went above and beyond, shattering expectations.

“The Rays have illuminated a genuine pathway for our boys from the North, giving them the chance to showcase their prowess alongside some of the best in the state and across Australia - and boy, did they rise to the occasion.”

The Rays owe a significant part of their success to their dedicated coach, Adam Knezevic. A local legend himself, Knezevic's guidance hints at a bright future for the Rays, cementing its reputation as a developmental pathway for emerging talent.

The Rays played six games over three days against the Gold Coast Waveriders, Northern Brisbane Kings, Southern QLD Rockets, Moreton Bay Magic and Darling Downs Dingos.

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The Great Barrier Reef Rays made it to the grand final in their inaugural year playing in the Century Cricket competition

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Up to 150 Mackay children now have access to a free netball program thanks to Woolworths Pick Fresh Play Fresh Netball Grants.

Mackay Netball Association was one of 11 community netball clubs in Australia to receive grants from Woolworths in an initiative providing young netballers with improved facilities and encouraging healthy habits.

The $8,000 grant is being used to provide a six-week Woolworths NetSetGO program to up to 150 kids aged between five and ten.

Children will also be provided with fresh fruit, healthy snacks and customised equipment.

Mackay Netball Association Secretary Jenny Moohin said the program teaches netball basics including ball skills, gameplay and fine motor skills.

“A lot of kids come to the program, and they haven’t been playing with balls, so it’s really important that we provide them with these opportunities to develop those skills,” she said.

“Not everyone can afford it, so this is like a ‘come and try’ kind of thing to give those kids the opportunity to see if they like netball for free,” added Operations Manager Sharon Sutherland.

Ms Moohin and Ms Sutherland agreed on the strength of netball in the region and said grants, sponsorship and community support are integral in keeping the sport growing.

“We really need to be able to develop the association to be able to offer come and try days and that sort of thing for free,” said Ms Moohin.

“All of our coaches in the program will be volunteers, they’ll give up their time, but if you don’t have the young ones coming through, you’re not going to grow your association.

“Our NetSetGO program also gives us an opportunity to bring our junior coaches through and get them to help with the program, so it’s very important to teach kids to volunteer and they do, they love it.”

To find out more about Mackay Netball Association’s programs, visit mackaynetball.com or find Mackay Netball Association – MNA on Facebook.

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Mackay Netball Association is providing a free netball program thanks to a grant from Woolworths. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Social bowls results for August 9th, the winning team consisted of Betty Mulhall, Wendy McGee, and Doris Dodds. The runners-up were Carmel O’Loughlin, Lesley Baumgarten, and Daphne Offield.

In the 'Champion of Champion' 4’s final, held last week, it was the ‘battle of the North’ with Northern Beaches facing off against North Mackay. The North Mackay Ladies from Goosies Sport and Recreation Club emerged as the victors in this year's competition. Congratulations to North Mackay for the win.

Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine

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Happy winners from left:  Chris Hall, Michele Stockton, Nuggie Pratt, Marie Bragg

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Volunteer Recognised

When Chris Breckell filled in for a touch football team over 20 years ago, he unknowingly embarked on a volunteer journey that saw him fill roles such as Player, Vice President, Canteen Assistant, Coach, and Referee with Mackay Touch.

The humble volunteer was named NRL Touch Football’s Volunteer of the Month and shared the story of his journey, starting all those years ago.

“Once I started to get involved in the club and people heard I was an accountant, I was approached to join the board, and I’m still involved now, 20 years later,” Chris said.

Chris shared kudos with his wife Annette who also invests a lot of time and effort into Mackay Touch, the couple personifying what Touch Football is about: inclusiveness, fun and friendship.

It’s the social element of touch that Chris loves best, as he gets to watch mums, dads and kids all join in.

“It’s wonderful to see the joy the sport can bring to a family and the memories they’ll have forever,” he said.

“It’s a testament to the inclusiveness and enjoyment the sport provides.

“I always remind the kids not to forget the 3-letter word ‘fun’.

“Whether they win or lose, it’s about having fun and making friendships with those you play with.”

Chris also has some impressive coaching accolades to his name, leading his team to the U9 North Queensland Junior championship before going back-to-back a year later with the same group of boys in the U10.

“It was great to see the boys stick together over the years and that happened through the bond and friendships they created,” he said.

“It’s worth all the time and effort when you see the kids having fun and creating new friendships.”

As Volunteer of the Month, Chris is now in the running for Volunteer of the Year, and he already has plans for the $5,000 paint project prize.

“The clubhouse needs a new facelift so I would put the paint towards that,” he said.

“It’s a great club and we’re fighting hard to keep it that way!”

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Mackay Touch Volunteer Chris Breckell. Photo supplied: NRL Touch Football

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Makenzie Weale is a young rugby league prop forward in a big hurry.

The Mackay Cutters powerhouse is making every post a winner in the early rounds of the NRLW premiership with the new North Queensland Cowboys franchise.

Weale produced a strong performance as the Cowboys snatched a 16-12 victory over the Wests Tigers last Saturday at Brisbane’s Totally Workwear Stadium.

The West Mitchelton Panthers junior ran for 161 metres, made two line-breaks and four tackle busts and scored a crucial try after the interval to keep the Cowboys in the hunt.

Leading the way with her bullocking runs and jarring defence, the tireless Weale was one of four Mackay recruits to help conjure up the Cowboys second win of the season after four rounds.

Weale was joined by Cutters’ colleagues in centre Jasmine Peters, utility ace China Polata and five eighth Tahlulah Tillett as the quartet combined to secure two valuable competition points.

Trailing 12-10, the Cowboys grabbed the lead in the dying seconds after Indigenous All Stars teammates Tillett and Peters combined for the match-winning try.

Wests Tigers set up a 10-4 half time lead with tries by skipper Kezie Apps and winger Josie Lenaz after the elusive Polata had earlier posted her maiden NRLW try.

A rampaging Weale helped level the scores with a determined try before Tigers fullback Pauline Piliae-Rasabale gave her side the lead with a penalty goal.

The Cowboys return to Townsville to host the Cronulla Sharks this Saturday.

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Makenzie Weale

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Mackay Cutters have bolstered their Hostplus Cup stocks for 2024 with the signing of former Tonga international centre Mahe Fonua.

The power-running outside back has secured a two-year deal with the Cutters after successful stints in the English Super League with Hull FC and the Castleford Tigers.

Fonua, who played six Tests with Tonga, made his NRL debut with the Melbourne Storm and spent two seasons with the Wests Tigers before carving out a decorated career in the United Kingdom.

He won back-to-back Challenge Cups with Hull FC in his first spell in Super League before returning to the club for a second stint after two years at Wests Tigers.

Fonua has chalked up 71 NRL games – including 21 matches with Wests Tigers - and made 131 Super League appearances during an impressive career to date.

His experience and leadership will be invaluable to the Cutters’ young squad as they continue to build for the future.

In Hostplus Cup action last weekend the Cutters pushed the second placed Burleigh Bears all the way during a 24-10 loss at UAA Park on the Gold Coast.

The Bears jumped to an early 14-0 lead following tries by winger Dante Lusio, second rower Jacob Alick and centre Sami Sauiluma before utility forward Sean Mullaney nabbed a four pointer for the visitors.

Elusive back Flynn Camilleri kept Mackay in the hunt when he dashed over to score after the interval with Brandon Finnegan adding the extras.

Burleigh sealed victory with second half tries to Sauiluma and centre Kea Pere to stay one point behind competition leaders Souths Logan Magpies (34).

Mackay Colts played strongly to roll the Central Queensland Capras 30-22.

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Emerging junior cricketers Jack Law and Ishaan Rana stole the show with extraordinary batting achievements at the Mackay 2023 Street Smarts Secondary Schools Twenty20 Challenge at Harrup Park.

Hot shot Law underlined his batting skills to help St Patrick’s College Mackay clean-sweep district titles in the Junior Male, Senior Male and Female categories.

The 14-year-old young gun smashed an unbeaten 113 off only 45 deliveries in St Patrick’s victory over Whitsunday Anglican School to confirm his status as one of the region’s most promising batsmen.

Law, an accomplished Mackay-Whitsunday junior representative and Brothers Mackay product, followed up his century with a whirlwind score of 40 against the St Patrick’s College No 2 X1.

He is one of eight Mackay juniors drafted for the Brisbane Premier League Junior Twenty20 series.

While top prospect Law was piling on the runs, the gifted Rana was emulating those deeds with a magnificent 109 off sixty balls against St Patrick’s and a quickfire 72 off only 27 deliveries against Holy Spirit College.

Rana’s stylish ton featured an incredible 15 sixes and two boundaries and entertained those lucky enough to witness the masterclass display before he was run out.

Law and Rana are undoubtedly two of the finest cricketers from the Mackay junior nursery with bright futures in the sport.

Other players to shine were Holy Spirit batsman Jacob Whitby, who cracked an impressive 58 off 48 balls against Whitsunday Anglican; St Patrick’s seamer Connor Muller (3-7) and spinners Nic Beardmore (3-22) and Cameron Tomerini (3-20 and 2-16); Darcy Sanderson (44); Hayden Melifont (35 not out); Etienne Pretorius (34 not out); Fletcher Russell (33 not out) and premiership-winning Magpies first grade all-rounder Liam Zurvas (25 & 15 not out) and Holy Spirit’s Bennett Reginato (29 and 23 not out).

By Chris Karas

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Jack Law

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In the adrenaline-charged circuit of the UCI BMX World Championships, the spotlight found its mark on Mackay rider Dylan Secher, a name now etched in the annals of BMX greatness. Amongst the hard work in preparation and the intensity of competition in Scotland, Dylan's journey shows that regional athletes can mix it with the best on the world stage.

Dylan's World Championship campaign launched with a spectacular performance that set the tone for his achievements. In the Cruiser class 8-12 Boys race, he clinched an astonishing 2nd in the world.

Following this impressive feat, Dylan sustained his momentum in the 20' class racing. His finesse on the track translated into winning three motos followed by 1st place in the 1/8th final, which he backed up with an unrelenting spirit to secure an impressive 7th position in the 1/4 final. Amidst a competitive field of 106 riders, his determination stood out, positioning him in 25th overall.

While Dylan seized the spotlight, his brother Beau's journey was equally significant. Beau's courageous decision to abstain from racing due to an injury from a broken foot showcased a different facet of sportsmanship – one defined by wisdom and consideration for his own well-being. After giving his all in practice, Beau realised his foot hadn’t healed as much as he had hoped, however the keen rider already has his sights set on future challenges.

Together with Dylan's feat, the broader Australian BMX contingent left an impressive mark on the championships. Seven 'W' plates were secured on the opening day, highlighted by Cameron Gatt's win in the Cruiser Boys 15-16 category.

Mackay and District BMX Club were immensely proud of the Secher brothers who represented Mackay with class on the world stage.

The club said in a statement, “Well done Dylan and Beau, we are all incredibly proud of you.”

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Dylan Secher clinched second place in the Cruiser class 8-12 Boys at the UCI BMX World Championships in Scotland. Photos supplied

Beau and Dylan Secher in Glasgow, Scotland

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Close to fifty runners and spectators enjoyed the cool morning sunshine for the racing of the annual Tri-ActiV8 Bonson’s Scrub Rd 6km and 12km mountainous challenge. Race Sponsor, Nikki Giles from Tri-ActiV8 has been on board as sponsor for this epic event for several years now as well as her day job of encouraging athletes in a multitude of activities including cycling, running, swimming, and paddling.

The ultimate winner was a very happy Lauren Connor who was two seconds off her estimated time, however, second and third placegetters, Robin Stinson and Oliver Rule, were approximately twenty seconds shy of their time. Standout performances came from Jen White who’s predicted time was tragically totally off the mark, but as always had a very positive spin on it and a good laugh.  In the lead up to his birthday the next day, Andrew Wallace had a great run over the undulating peaks as did Justin Rule, Luke Leven, Lily Leven, Tahnie Malagueno, Shane Barben, Matt Graves, Andrew Short, Carolyn Mapes, Natasha Joynson, Emily Dalglish, Carmel Mahon, Brenda Windsor, Geeta Ariani, Stuart Sprott, Alan Zamparutti, Grant Holmstrom, Michael Feenaghty and Werner VanderLinde.

Many thanks to all volunteers including Julie Whibley, Andrew Short, Tim Magoffin, Brendan Bishop, Jo Hughes and Melissa Harris as well as Helen Leven who brings along the very popular Zooper Doopers each week.  

This Sunday’s Mackay Road Runners Signature Event, the Magic Mile Club Championship, will be held at the entry of the Marina Breakwater at 7am.  All members of the general public are most welcome to enter, have some fun, then enjoy the day cruising around the cafes and parklands of the beautiful Mackay Marina precinct.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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L-R Mackay Road Runners Vice President Brendan Bishop, President Tim Magoffin, race day timekeeper Melissa Harris with race day sponsor TriActiV8’s Nikki Giles

L-R Proud Mackay Road Runners supporters Helen Leven, Club Secretary Julie Whibley and Belinda Rule.

Champion runners Justin Rule and Matt Graves tackle the challenging 12km Bonson’s Scrub Road/Ian Reddacliff Drive course

Tri-ActiV8 Garmin watch winner Lauren Connor (right) with Carmel Mahon enjoyed the serious ascents/descents of Bonson’s Scrub Road and Ian Reddacliff Drive. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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Congratulations to Karina Dunn who played in the Champion of Champions Ladies Singles at St Helens Club and reached the semi-final.

The Champion of Champion Fours were also played with Karli Burns, Carol Savage, Karina Dunn and Denise Mezzen also making it to the semi-finals.

Alan Summerville and Gerard Black competed in the Multi Disability Championships last week and won a number of games.

This weekend Ross Dunstan will compete in the Men's Championship of Championship Singles at North Mackay.

The Men's senior singles were decided on Sunday after Steve Cassidy def Barry Jenner and Trevor Mayfield def Peter Molloy in the semi-finals on Saturday.

On Sunday Steve Cassidy def Trevor Mayfield in the Final.

Close games were witnessed with Steve going on to play in the Senior Champion of Champion in September.

Ladies 3 Bowl Triples Final was played on Sunday Afternoon with Erin Clements, Janice Nelson, Robyn Schatkowski def Denise Mezzen, Marie Mayfield, Dot McNamara in a very close game that went down to the wire.

Mackay Club will be holding Ladies Champion of Champion Triples on September 14 and 15.

Tuesday Social was enjoyed by 18 Bowlers.

Winners of Winners: Albert Wicks, Gary Williamson, Mick D'Alessio.

Winners of Losers: Alan Bartlett, Robyn Schatkowski, Barry Jenner.

Thursday Scroungers: Brian Williams def Kevin Tranberg.

Friday Social Play Winners: Kerrie Catanzariti, Denise Mezzen, Val Edwards.

Ladies Senior Singles will be on this afternoon (Friday) with Carol Savage v Julie Caban.

Saturday afternoon will see Ladies Consistency Singles, Mixed Pairs and Men’s B Singles being played.

Sunday Afternoon sees Men's Open Triples being played.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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Karina Dunn playing Ladies Single Champion of Champions. Photo credit: Mike Irving

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The 2023 Australian National Championships (ANC) was played at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre from 9th to 21st July. Mackay Bridge Club member Lauren Morgan and her partner Paddy Taylor came 1st in the interstate pairs youth category. The Queensland team finished 3rd in the youth team’s event. The full Queensland team was K. Macdonald, L. Morgan, S. Langdon Macmillan, P. Taylor, A. Wu, Z. Ros.

Weekly Club Results

Monday 7 August 2023 – ANNE HIRD MEMORIAL TROPHY Week 1 of 3

N/S E/W

1st Diane Stokes / Joyce Deguara 1st Antonia Tarradas / Kitty Ranson

2nd Lynne O’Neill / Terrence Sheedy 2nd Peter Cowling / Helen Van Den Broek

3rd Elrae Trueman / Monica Darley 3rd Bob Ranson / Jewel Schmidt

4th Susan Ross / Jan Harris 4th Joy Robinson / Sandy Patterson

5th Anne Lutz / Janelle Conroy 4th Joy Block / Edward Kleise

Tuesday 8 August 2023 Evening - 3 Table One Winner Mitchell Green Pts

1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 2nd Terrence Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

3rd Janelle Conroy / Eric Leivesley 4th Mick Robins / Marilin Robins

Wednesday 9 August 2023 NWP 15 of 23 - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 1st Kitty Ranson / Bob Ranson

2nd Eric Leivesley / Terrence Sheedy 2nd Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan

3rd Janet Hansen / Janelle Conroy 3rd Monica Darley / Kath Poole

4th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 4th Josie Cowley / Barbara Tait

Thursday Evening 10 August 2023 - 4 Table One Winner

1st Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

2nd Terrence Sheedy / Janine Rodgers

3rd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

4th Mick King / Patricia Garner

Friday 11 August 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix 1st Eric Leivesley / Max Holewa

2nd Joyce Deguara / Toni Large 2nd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

3rd Frances Brown / Alan Brown 3rd Kitty Ranson / Bob Ranson

4th Margaret Jennings / Marilin Robins 4th Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson

Saturday 12 August 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Christine Nice / Terrence Sheedy 1st Mick King / Patricia Garner

2nd Janet Hanson / Diane Morgan 2nd Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd Geoff Taylor / Julie O’Neill 3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette

4th Anne Lutz / Ken Seaniger 4th Simon Barnes / Faith Hutchinson

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Lauren Morgan came first in the interstate pairs youth category at the Australian National Bridge Championships in Perth

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A wildcard entry to the National Junior Basketball Championships in Melbourne has left ten promising Mackay hoopers brimming with excitement.

The Mackay Meteors Under 14 Boys representative team will get the chance to rub shoulders with the finest basketball talent in their age group when they trek down south next month to compete at the prestigious carnival from September 23-29.

Mackay Basketball Association was quick to snap up an invitation to participate at the national titles after the late withdrawal of the Northern Territory squad.

It follows the Meteors’ strong performances at this year’s State Under 14 Championships in Townsville where they finished fourth under the guidance of Head Coach Francis Moala and Assistant Coach Jamie Novosel.

The young Meteors were formed as a representative team back in February and have shown plenty of raw talent under the expert coaching of Moala and Novosel.

They defeated Cairns and Townsville to clinch the Top of the North junior basketball series before making an impression with skilful performances at the State Championships.

This year’s Under 14 Meteors squad is comprised of juniors from the Renegades, Souths, Whitsunday, Magpies and North Mackay Magic clubs.

Rising prospects like guard Will Di Filippo, Archie Rooney, Sam Osborne, Jude Novosel, Parker Coleman, Caleb Cassells, Ryan Mapes, Harrison Bell, Coby Hughes and Lachlan Dore are relishing the opportunity to show their wares in Melbourne.

Three team members – Di Filippo, Rooney and Novosel – have family links to the Meteors franchise.

The young guns are the nephews of Mackay’s 2012 QBL championship-winning star trio Ryan Di Filippo, Luke Harvey and Mitch Gamblin.

Former Meteors back courter Gamblin – an uncle of Jude - gave the club sterling service as a star defender from 2010 to 2018 as did Archie’s uncle - power forward Harvey along with Will’s uncle Ryan Di Filippo.

In a cruel blow, promising junior Munotendwa Mhashu will miss the Championships due to injury.

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Mackay Meteors talented Under 14 boys representative team will compete at the upcoming National Under 14 Junior Basketball Championships in Melbourne

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Congratulations to Helen Truscott and Erin Clemett who made it to the semi-final of the Champion of Champion Pairs in Proserpine, with both ladies playing very good bowls.

This week Karli Burns, Carol Savage, Karina Dunn and Denise Mezzen will represent the Mackay Bowls Club in Champion of Champion Fours at Marian.

In Calen, Karina Dunn and Janice Nielsen will compete in the postponed Champion of Champion Senior and B Grade Singles.

Mackay Bowls Club’s very own Albert Wicks, Alf Padgen and Mona Towsend feature in the latest edition of Queensland Bowler magazine in an article showcasing that age is no barrier.

Tuesday Social Play saw 25 players turn up for an afternoon of bowls.

Results:

Winners of Winners: Leanne Jenner, Barry Jenner, Peter Taaffe.

Winner of Losers: John Schatkowski, B Williams , Barry Paskins.

Thursday Scroungers: Denise Mezzen def Brian Williams in the final.

Contact the club if you are interested in an afternoon of Thursday social bowls; men, ladies and visitors are welcome.

Friday Social Play

Winners of Winners: Kristine Robinson, Janice Nelson.

Runners up: Denise Mezzen, Peter Nelson, Val Edwards.

Club Competition continues Saturday and Sunday in both Men and Ladies.

Saturday Afternoon Ladies 3 Bowl Triples final: E Clements , L Nielsen,, R Schatkowski v D Mezzen, M Mayfield, D McMamara

Men’s Senior Singles:

Steve Cassidy v Barry Jenner

Peter Molloy v Trevor Mayfield

The winners of these games will play off in the final on Sunday afternoon.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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By Amanda Wright

Mackay's BMX racing scene is buzzing with excitement as two exceptional brothers from the Mackay and District BMX Club, Dylan Secher and Beau Secher, prepare to represent Team Australia at the UCI BMX Racing World Championships in Glasgow, Scotland. The world-class event is set to host over 8,000 talented riders from more than 120 countries, competing over eleven intense days of thrilling action.

The UCI BMX Racing World Championships, known for showcasing the best amateur riders worldwide, will provide an extraordinary platform for the Secher brothers to test their skills and compete against the world's best BMX racers.

Beau Secher will be vying for success in the fiercely contested 11-year-old boys' category, bringing his boundless enthusiasm and determination to the world stage. Meanwhile, his older brother, Dylan Secher, will be taking on the challenge in two classes: the highly competitive 12-year-old boys' category and the Cruiser 12 and under class. Dylan's impressive 8th ranking in Australia for the 12-year-old boys reflects his dedication and commitment to the sport.

The local BMX club expressed their admiration for the brothers' hard work and achievements, stating, "Watching these young athletes grow and excel in their passion for BMX racing has been truly inspiring.

“We are immensely proud of Dylan and Beau and wish them the best of luck at the UCI BMX Racing World Championships.

“They have worked incredibly hard for this moment, and we have no doubt that they will shine on the world stage."

The Championships will run from August 3 to August 13, promising spectators a thrilling display of speed, skill, and adrenaline-pumping action.

For those unable to witness the excitement in person, live streaming of the event will be available on SBS on Demand, allowing BMX enthusiasts and sports fans alike to follow the action from the comfort of their homes.

May the wind be at your back, and the thrill of victory be in your grasp. Go, Dylan and Beau!

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Beau and Dylan Secher in Glasgow, Scotland, arriving at the track

Beau Secher

Dylan Secher

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Sarina Crocodiles have a rich rugby league history in the Mackay region with some of Queensland’s modern-day legends donning the club’s famous colours in their junior days.

Maroons and Kangaroos legends Martin Bella, Wendell Sailor, Dale Shearer and Daly Cherry-Evans are famous products of the Crocodiles along with enforcer Kevin Campion and went on to carve out illustrious top-grade careers in the NSW and National Rugby League.

North Queensland Cowboys strong man Rueben Cotter – who helped Australia win the Rugby League World Cup last year – is the latest representative star off the Crocodiles’ production line to make an impact in the NRL competition.

The teak-tough Cotter also picked up the Wally Lewis Medal for Origin Player of the Year after helping Queensland defeat NSW 2-1 in this year’s interstate series.

Latest Sarina junior to earn a Queensland representative jumper is Mackay Cutters half back sensation Emily Bella, who recently guided the Maroons Under 19s Girls team to an Origin triumph over the Blues at Redcliffe.

Emily turned the game when used as an interchange hooker and caught the eye of talent scouts at the venue.

The exciting prospect is on the radar of several clubs including the Cowboys as she chases an NRLW contract and is keen to secure her immediate future.

She spent her formative junior rugby league years with the Crocodiles before joining the Walkerston Wanderers and Mackay Brothers clubs.

Emily along with her cousin Martin Bella, Sailor and Cherry-Evans attended St Patrick’s College Mackay where they all shone in their own right.

Cherry-Evans, who chalked up his 300th NRL appearance for the Manly Sea Eagles last weekend against St George-Illawarra, started his league career with the Crocodiles in the Mackay Junior League before stints with Souths Sharks and Mackay Brothers.

His father Troy Evans was a Sarina Crocodiles enforcer before developing into a ‘hardman’ for Norths Devils and Redcliffe Dolphins in the Brisbane premiership during the 1980s and 1990s.

By Chris Karas

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Queensland Under 19 Origin hero Emily Bella and Mackay raised State coach Deanna Turner celebrate the Maroons’ triumph over NSW

Daly Cherry-Evans is a former St Patrick’s product who played for the Crocodiles as a junior

Reuben Cotter won the Wally Lewis Medal for Origin Player of the Year

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures August 1, 2023

Division 1:

Joola (Andrew McHugh, Geoff Denman, Janice Kent) d Donic (Ivan Perkins, Anne Sheridan, Ian McKay) 9-2. Janice d Ian -7, 6, 8, 9.

Radak (Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake, Graham Brake) d Andro (George Camilleri, Robbie Richards, Barry Patterson) 8-3. Lee d Barry 10, 9, -7, -6, 8.

Tibhar (Vince Boeske, Steven Whiting, Tim Shehan) d Butterfly (Neil Brown, Allan Edwards, Graeme Walker) 8-3. Neil d Vince 9, 9, -7, -10, 10.

Division 2:

Xiom (Duncan Sheridan, Duncan Treloar, Ishan Rana) d Stiga (Tony Bowman, Donna Abbott, Leo Gilbert) 6-5. Ishan d Tony 8, -10, 8, -5, 8.

Nittaku (David Ting, Will VanDeKaa, John McGee) d Yasaka (Noreen Fredericksen, Andrea Nicholson, Peter Goodson) 9-2. John d Peter -9, -8, 10, 12, 9.

Victas (Steve Crocker, Mark Sleeman, Steve Mathieson) d Gewo (Wayne Wormald, Matthew West, Trent Day) 6-5. Steve d Trent 6, -7, -7, 7, 6.

Division 3:

Epsilon (Anaya Reelh, Jye Callander, Virginia Claytron) d Gamma (Mark Stam, Alok Rana, Craig VenDeKaa) 6-5. Craig d Anaya 7, -3, -10, 1, 10).

Beta (Simon Hogan, Kade Wright, Nehmat Dhaliwal) d Zeta (Praneesh Cheruku, Bill Hey) 9-2. Kade d Praneesh -5, 7, 8, -6, 5.

Alpha (Rymer Tabulo, Misha Palod, Ollie Hamelink) d Delta (Saisha Palod, Aarnav Reelh, Val Austin) 7-4. Rymer/Misha d Aarnav/Val 5, 7, 6, 3, 7.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures August 1, 2023

Division 1:

Blue (George Camilleri, John McGee, Don Boettcher) d Yellow (Donna Abbott, Peter Goodson, Bryan Marshall) 7-5. John d Bryan 6, -9, 11, -7, 3.

Red (Branko Vucurovic, Steve Mathieson, Kevin Abbott) d Green (Charlie Payne, Pam Joyce, Noreen Fredericksen) 8-4. Steve d Pam 9, 9, -9, -10, 9.

Division 2:

Purple (Iris Grasso, Ken Best, Judi Hicks) d Orange (Helen Ware, Louise Gould, Gerry Synnott) 11-1. Ken d Louise -11, 2, -14, 4, 7.

White (Wayne Wormal, Marie Taylor, Michael Ibbotson) drew Pink (Robyn Bushell, John Hamelink, Fred Saliba) 6-all. Michael d Robyn -8, -3, 7, 10, 10.

Division 3:

Tan (Cheryl Aprato, Madge Saunders, Bill Hey) d Lime (Cheryl Pearson, Carmel Cristaldi, Myles Dutton) 8-4. Cheryl P d Cheryl A 5, -6, 6, -11, 9.

Aqua (Pam Keune, Rhonda Griffiths, Glenda Dutton) d Grey (Ian Dodds, Allison Day) 7-5. Pam d Ian -7, 7, 4, -6, 8.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Pam Keune was part of the winning Aqua team in Division 3. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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Mackay Cutters dynamo Jasmine Peters is relishing her new role in the NRLW premiership.

The strong running Peters has left her mark in the early rounds of the competition with the North Queensland Cowboys with pundits describing her as “a sharp attacking weapon”.

Her powerful bursts from fullback inspired the Cutters to a semi-final appearance in the Queensland Rugby League’s BMD Premiership earlier this season and the try scoring merchant has made every post a winner since linking with the Cowboys.

Peters has switched to centre for the NRLW campaign and has caught the eye of keen judges with slick performances against Gold Coast Titans, Newcastle Knights and the Brisbane Broncos.

The emerging number three turned in a solid display in the Cowboys’ 40-12 loss to the Broncos last Saturday at Townsville’s Queensland Country Bank Stadium and hopes she can replicate that fine form for the remainder of the series.

New Zealand international and Brisbane centre Mele Hufanga grabbed the limelight with a powerhouse performance for the visitors.

The former Tongan rugby star etched her name in the record books with a spectacular four try haul as the Broncos ran amok after the interval.

Hufanga’s solo achievement equalled the NRLW record for most tries in a match.

The Cowboys trailed 18-12 at the break but struggled to contain the rejuvenated Broncos who piled on 22 unanswered points in a second half blitz.

With Jillaroos great Ali Brigginshaw calling the shots at half back, there was no stopping the Brisbane outfit as they ran in eight tries in a dominant showing.

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Three-time Indigenous All-Stars centre, Jasmine Peters

The winning NRLW Cowboys team after defeating the Newcastle Knights last month

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The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club has been keeping the bowls rolling with some exciting social matches. On July 17th, the winning team consisted of Lesley Baumgarten, Wendy McGee, and Lidia McCarthy, with Pam Louis and Bev McDonald as the runners-up.

Moving to July 24th, Bev McDonald, Pam Louis, and Jean Schmidtke clinched victory, while Sue Roscoe, Lesley Baumgarten, and Lidia McCarthy took the second spot.

In the latest action on August 2nd, the winning pair was Ann Smith and Sue Hazledine, with Bev McDonald, Narell Schmidtke, and Jean Schmidtke as the runners-up.

As the club approaches the finals, the under 70’s and over 70’s competitions, along with the Consistency contests, are all shaping up for an exciting finish.

Contributed by Sue Hazledine.

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Division 4 Ladies for 2023 L-R: Pam Louis, Min Andrew, Brenda Trannore, Wendy McGee, Rondelle McDermot, Margaret Creese, Sue Hazledine, Helen Fleming, Maureen Blucher

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Eight teams battled in the final of the Whitsunday Zone GNOT Gold Points event on Saturday at the Mackay Contract Bridge Club. Team Conroy came out on top winning the event.

Monday 31 July 2023 – 6 Table One Winner Green Pts

1st Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy

2nd Frances Brown / Vicki Howard

3rd Monica Darley / Joy Robinson

4th Margaret Jennings / Marilin Robins

5th Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris

Tuesday 1 August 2023 Evening - 4 Table Mitchell Green Pts

N/S E/W

1st Janelle Conroy / Eric Leivesley 1st Terrence Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek

2nd Faye Wright / Marilin Robins 2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

Wednesday 2 August 2023 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Janet Hansen / Alan Brown 1st Eric Goodchild / David Ting

2nd Sandra Morris / Jan Harris 2nd Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3rd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 3rd Susan Wright / Bob Ellis

4th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 4th Geoff Patterson / Sandy Patterson

5th Debbie Ludkin / Cath Willis 5th Victor Mason / John Ludkin

Thursday Evening 3 August 2023 - 5 Table One Winner

1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2nd Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank

3rd Terrence Sheedy / Jan Harris

4th Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 4 August 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S E/W

1st Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix 1st David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd Joyce Deguara / Toni Large 2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

3rd Terrence Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 3rd Geoff Cowan / Joy Robinson

4th Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson 4th Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell

Saturday 5 August 2023 – Whitsunday Zone GNOT Final - 8 Table Mitchell Gold Points

Team Team Members

1st Conroy Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor / Monica Darley / Ken Seaniger

2nd O’Neill Julie O'Neill - Sandra Morris - Patricia Garner - Sandy Patterson

3rd Morgan Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen / Frances Brown / Alan Brown

4th Leivesley Eric Leivesley - Tex Sheedy - Max Holewa - Diane Holewa

5th Sheffield Marilyn Scopelliti / Ellie Sheffield / Betty Andison / Renate Feige

6th Robins Marilin Robins - Anne Lutz - Antonia Tarradas - Christine Nice

7th Breeze Deb Breeze / Lydie Martin / Sue McInnes / Maureen Gallichan

8th Goodchild Debra Goodchild - Ming Ting - Eric Goodchild - David Ting

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GNOT Finalists from Left to Right: Geoff Taylor, Janelle Conroy, Monica Darley and Ken Seaniger

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Ian Schifilitti was renowned for his dedication and work ethic as a professional rugby league journeyman.

The industrious forward – who represented Italy at the Rugby League World Cup – was highly regarded during his playing career in the Townsville region and English Super League for his tenacity, courage, ball play and copybook defence.

Those admirable traits have rubbed off on his St Patrick’s College Mackay team that has just secured the minor premiership in the Aaron Payne Cup.

The all-conquering Mackay colts edged out Kirwan State High 22-16 to extend their winning streak and set up a semi-final showdown this week with St Augustine’s Cairns.

While proud of his charges’ efforts during a crippling injury crisis, the respected mentor faces a selection headache in the finals with ten key players returning to bolster the team.

“Reducing my 30-man squad to 17 remains a difficult proposition with so many of our fringe players stepping up in recent weeks to push their claims,” coach Schifilitti revealed.

St Patrick’s College can now claim to be the powerbase of northern Queensland school rugby league after wrapping up both the Aaron Payne Cup and Year 10 Cowboys Challenge minor premierships and the Girls team finishing runners up at the QISSRL Confraternity Shield Carnival.

The College is on track to secure a championship double with both sides preserving their undefeated records after rousing victories over Kirwan State High in Townsville.

Boosted by the return of Queensland Schoolboys reps Xavier Kerrisk and Jaxon Purdue and a slick display by centre Will Shears, the Mackay giants grabbed a psychological edge over their rivals.

It has been a tremendous team effort by the senior Mackay colts who have all contributed to the minor title with courageous performances.

Promising fullback Hayden Cumming, wingers Bailey Anderson and Hunter Harris, centres Tenzin Contor, Will Whippy and Reuben Saron, five eighth Bailey Venz and forwards Darcy Clark, Tyler Shandiman, Diesel Costigan, Jake Bryan, Kayne Smith, Hudson Clark and Cohen Jackson, Darcy Daly, utility Nelson Fenlon, Javan Ramsamy, Harrison Considine, Mikey Hinchy, Lachlan Starr and Jack Townsend have also shown dedication to training and a will to win despite the College fielding depleted line-ups.

“We even had to blood 15-year-old forward prospect Mark Morrow in the top grade and he rose to the challenge,” said Schifilitti.

“I am just so proud of their commitment and the energy they take into each game,” he added.

Morrow, who has signed a three-year contract with the Canberra Raiders, is one of the big guns in a powerful and hungry St Patrick’s Year 10 team that is on the prowl for another Cowboys Challenge Shield title.

Coach Tom Gaviglio has the side in tip-top form.

Having conceded only three tries in this campaign, the St Patrick’s outfit are warm favourites to sink Mackay State High in this week’s semi-final and book a berth in this year’s Grand Final.

Talented half back Adam McSherry, centre Norm Campbell, lock Caleb O’Brien, Queensland Under 15s prop Sam Anderson and hooker Cooper Deguara led the way in a 28-0 victory over Kirwan High.

By Chris Karas

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St Patrick’s College senior rugby league coach Ian Schifilitti is proud of his squad’s efforts in claiming the Aaron Payne Cup minor premiership

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A Mackay junior made his National Rugby League debut on the weekend, scoring the opening try for the Parramatta Eels in their round 23 win against the St George Illawarra Dragons.

Taking the field on the wing, Arthur Miller-Stephen scored in the left-hand corner just nine minutes into his first NRL game as the Eels went on to win 26-20 at CommBank Stadium, Sydney.

The 19-year-old, who played for Brothers Bulldogs Junior Rugby League and Mackay Cutters and attended Mackay State High School, has represented Queensland at both Under 16s and Under 18s levels.

Primarily a fullback, Miller-Stephen has been climbing the Parramatta ranks, spending most of last season in the NSW Under 21 competition, the Jersey Flegg Cup.

He made his NSW Cup debut in round 3 of the 2023 season and has appeared in seven NSW Cup games for the Eels, scoring three tries and contributing three try assists, 15 tackle busts and one line break, alongside an average of 134 running metres per game.

His junior club shared their elation on Facebook ahead of the young gun’s debut.

“We are all so very proud of him,” Brothers Bulldogs Junior Rugby League posted on social media.

“He has always been such a great kid, and was always an excellent ambassador for our club.

“Congratulations Arthur!”

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Arthur Miller-Stephen scored a try nine minutes into his debut for the Parramatta Eels. Photo supplied: Parramatta Eels

Miller-Stephen played his junior footy for Brothers Bulldogs Junior Rugby League. Photo supplied: Brothers Bulldogs Junior Rugby League Mackay QLD

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Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night results July 25, 2023:

Division 1:

Andro (George Camilliei, Tony Bowman, Barry Patterson) d Tibhar (Steven Whiting, Tim Sheehan, Vince Boeske) 6-5. George d Tim -4, 8, -8, 7, 9.

Radak (Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake, Graham Brake) d Donic (Ivan Perkins, Anne Sheridan, Ian McKay) 8-3. Lee d Ivan -4, 6, -7, 6, 3.

Joola (Janice Kent, Andrew McHugh, Geoff Denman) d Butterfly (Neil Brown, Allan Edwards, Graeme Walker) 8-3. Geoff d Graeme 6, 7, -8, -4, 3.

Division 2:

Victas (Mark Sleeman, Steve Mathieson) d Yasaka (Noreen Fredericksen, Daniel Warfield, Peter Goodson) 6-5. Steve d Daniel 8, -6, -7, 9, 8.

Xiom (Duncan Sheridan, Duncan Treloar, Ishan Rana) d Nittaku (David Ting, Will VanDeKaa, John McGee) 6-5. David d Ishan -13, 7, 6, 7.

Stiga (Leo Gilbert, Donna Abbott) d Gewo (Matthew West, Trent Day) 6-3. Trent d Donna 9, -6, -6, 9, 6.

Division 3:

Delta (Aarnav Reelh, Val Austin, Saisha Palod) d Zeta (David Symons, Bill Hey) 9-2. Aarnav d David -10, 11, -7, 5, 7.

Beta (Simon Hogan, Kade Wright, Nehmat Dhaliwal) d Epsilon (Anaya Reelh, Jye Callander, Virginia Clayton) 6-5. Simon/Nehmat d Jye/Anaya -5, 6, -10, 8.10.

Gamma (Craig VanDeKaa, Mark Stam) d Alpha (Misha Palod, Ollie Hamelink) 6-3. Mark d Misha 8, 14, -9, 9.

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SERVING UP: Gerry Synnott serves in Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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North Queensland Cowboys have claimed one of the biggest scalps for their first ever win in the NRLW competition.

The new franchise showed its stout-hearted qualities with a spirited 31-20 victory over reigning premiers Newcastle last Sunday at Belmore Sports Ground.

Trailing 20-12, the Cowboys staged a remarkable comeback with four second half tries to bury the star-studded Knights.

Earlier, 18-year-old NSW half back Jesse Southwell engineered tries for Sheridan Gallagher and Shanice Parker as Newcastle jumped to a 10-0 lead after eight minutes.

The Mackay Cutters connection of hooker Emma Manzelmann and centre Jasmine Peters combined for the Cowboys opening try before winger Jetaya Faifua crossed to level the scores.

Jillaroos utility Kirra Dibb produced a standout performance to inspire the North Queensland team.

The crafty playmaker booted a penalty goal to give the Cowboys a 12-10 lead at the interval; potted a field goal to snap a 20-all deadlock midway through the second half and created two of North Queensland’s final three tries.

When Cowboys forward April Ngatunpuna was sin-binned for a shoulder charge the Newcastle side took full advantage with Gallagher and prop Rima Butler crashing over for tries to open up an eight-point lead.

But in a dramatic twist the North Queensland women took control by scoring an incredible four tries in the final 14 minutes – including a double to winger Vitalina Naikore – to record an amazing win.

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Second-rower for the Newcastle Knight Caitlan Johnston

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At Under 18 World Indoor Cricket Series In Dubai

An international sporting trip to exotic Dubai is the just reward for top class performances by emerging 15-year-old Mackay cricketer Kiana Dunn.

The versatile St Patrick’s College student will represent the Australian Under 16 Girls Indoor Cricket team at this year’s World Series Under 18s tournament in the United Arab Emirates at the end of September.

Kiana, a talented opening batter and sharp pace bowler, earned selection after helping Queensland Under 18s clinch back-to-back National Indoor Cricket titles these past two seasons.

The promising all-rounder was the Maroons youngest player at age 14 when they defeated NSW at the 2022 National Championships in Melbourne and was later named in the Queensland All Stars team.

Dunn again showed her wares in Queensland’s triumphant 2023 side that also lifted the trophy with an impressive Grand Final victory over Western Australia in Ipswich.

A prolific run-scorer, wicket-taker and superb fielder, young Kiana is the perfect package for indoor cricket.

She has also represented Queensland at Under 22s level and is delighted to be part of the Australian Girls squad for the World Series championship.

“I’m excited to be visiting the city of Dubai that has hosted numerous International Cricket Council (ICC) events over the years,” beamed Kiana, who took up cricket at the age of eleven.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to represent my country against the best indoor cricket girls players from across the world,” she said.

Kiana has competed at Mackay Indoor Sports for the past five years and during that time has demonstrated her all round capabilities in park cricket with the Norths Cricket Club in the Mackay Cricket Association’s boys competition.

She has been a regular fixture in the Mackay-Whitsunday junior representative cricket teams and helped St Patrick’s College win the prestigious Queensland StreetSmarts Twenty20 Secondary Schools Challenge.

Kiana has impressed State outdoor cricket selectors who named her as part of the 20 player Queensland Under 16 junior provisional squad.

Her father Shane Dunn, a prominent all-rounder with Norths Cricket Club, has proved a major influence.

“My dad has always encouraged me to have fun at sport and gives valuable tips for my batting and bowling,” revealed Kiana.

When she’s not smashing runs or taking wickets on the cricket field, the capable Year 9 student can be found racking up goals on the netball court.

By Chris Karas

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Mackay’s Kiana Dunn will represent the Australian Girls Indoor Cricket team at this year’s World Series Under 18s tournament in Dubai during September

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Fourteen days can be a long time between drinks in the Queensland Rugby League Hostplus Cup.

Exactly a fortnight after nearly toppling premiership leaders Souths Logan Magpies in Proserpine, the Mackay Cutters came back to earth with a thud after a devastating 46-6 loss to Townsville Blackhawks at Jack Manski Oval.

Having played so bravely in a 14-12 defeat against the top ranked Magpies, the unpredictable Cutters were poised for a strong showing against the ninth placed Blackhawks on their away trip.

Things looked promising when livewire fullback Rayden Burns crossed for the opening try after 21 minutes with half back Brandon Finnegan adding the extras to give the visitors a 6-0 lead.

But things went pear-shaped from that moment.

A converted try by replacement half Jake Bourke levelled the scores before wingers Jodeci Baker-Tiraha and Robert Derby scooted over for four pointers to give the Blackhawks a 16-6 lead at the interval.

The try blitz continued in the second stanza with Baker-Tiraha and centre Zac Laybutt posting doubles and back rower Taniela Sadrugu crossing as Townsville notched up thirty unanswered points.

It was a disappointing display from the Cutters who had turned in encouraging performances in recent weeks to kick-start their campaign.

MEANWHILE the Cutters had no answer to a slick Blackhawks Under 21 outfit during a 48-0 whitewash in the Hastings Deering Colts competition.

Outstanding fullback prospect Ragarive Wavik was superb for Townsville – capping a best on ground display with a points haul of 20 from two tries and six goals.

The Blackhawks captain was electrifying in attack as the home side ran in nine tries with doubles from winger Jesse Yallop and boom second rower Jamal Shibasaki, hooker Jai Hansen, prop Tyrone Gunn-James and centre Elekana Suavai.

Mackay have a bye in the Hostplus Cup this weekend before squaring off with the Burleigh Bears on Saturday August 12 at UAA Park on the Gold Coast at 4pm.

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Hilly Eimeo Hop

Approximately forty Mackay Road Runners revelled in the early morning cool, sunny conditions as they left the Eimeo Pacific Hotel carpark precincts for a very hilly, meandering track towards Eimeo via Dolphin Heads and Blacks Beach.  

Luke Leven ran a magnificent 14km being the highest handicapped runner to start, with next highest handicapped runner, Toby Rule leading him by one minute from the starter’s gun.

Luke’s impressive outing earned him 3rd overall as he smashed his way over the rolling hills and through gusty breezes to finish behind talented runners first and second placed Oliver Rule and Andrew Wallace.  

The handicapped five kilometre start saw Michael Feenaghty’s golden run secure him first place ahead of talented rivals Lily Leven and Werner VanDerLinde.

There were some awesome efforts across both events with Carolyn Mapes being first female in the 14km on handicap, Toby Rule’s tough 14km effort after an amazing out of town 6km cross country race the previous day to take silver and a well-deserved spot in the Queensland Team to race a 6km cross country championships event in Canberra next month.

Congratulations to athletes competing in several very popular out of town events including Yeppoon and Airlie Beach.

This Sunday’s Mackay Mountain Marathon event scheduled to commence at the Eungella Chalet has been cancelled due to the closure of some of the Eungella National Parks’ weather damaged and therefore unsafe trails, however, there will be a revised course and start location for those wanting to do a very social run.

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Werner VanDerLinde, Justin Rule, Oliver Rule, Toby Rule, Michael Feenaghty, Luke Leven and Jared Mackie

Mackay Road Running stalwarts Jan Smith and Leanne Connor

Carolyn Mapes (2nd left) and Tahnie Malagueno (2nd right) enjoyed a successful 14km run congratulated by their girls, Lily, Maddy and Mackenzie.

Toni Enright warms up prior to her 5km event. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse

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The weather was not kind to the Mackay Bowls Club on Tuesday and Friday, but the sun came out for Scroungers on Thursday afternoon.

19 players turned out to bowl with four rinks of three players and one rink of four.

Close games were witnessed with Tom Casey playing Kees Struik in one semi-final and Steve Cassidy playing Robyn Schatkowski in the other.

Mr Casey went on to defeat Ms Schatkowski in the final.

Men's competition was played over the weekend and results were:

Men's B Pairs: Barry Jenner, Peter Carter def Doug Wootton, Barry Paskins 26-14

Open Singles Semi-Final: Ross Dunstan def Noel Wilson 25-14

Open Pairs: Doug Wootton, Bruce Bridger def Justin Strong, Ross Blanchard 27-18

Open Singles Final: Ross Dunstan def Steve Cassidy 25-11. Mr Dunstan will now represent Mackay Bowls Club at the Champion of Champion Singles.

Ladies Consistency Singles: Leanne Jenner def Karina Dunn

Helen Truscott and Erin Clemett will be representing Mackay Bowls Club in the District Champion of Champion Pairs in Proserpine.

Over the weekend, Men's and Ladies Competition will be played.

Contributed by Mike Irving

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The Men's Open Singles Final between Steve Cassidy and Ross Dunstan. Photo credit: Mike Irving

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Each time a member wins or places in a game of bridge, event, or congress, they are awarded Masterpoints. When they reach each milestone in the Masterpoints system, they are awarded a specific ranking. Congratulations to three members who have been awarded an increase in their Masterpoints Rankings. Janelle Conroy – Gold Life Master, Carol Gaskell – Bronze Life Member and Clare Wallace – Local Master.

Monday 24 July 2023 – Unders & Overs 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S                                                           E/W

1st Anne Lutz / Eric Goodchild 1st Edward Kliese / Peter Cowling

2nd Vicki Howard / Richard Wix 2nd Marilin Robins / Sandy Patterson

3rd Ian Gaskell / Margaret Jennings 3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Block

Tuesday 25 July 2023 Evening - 5 Table One Winner Green Points

1st Eric Leivesley / Janelle Conroy

2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terrence Sheedy

3rd Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris

Wednesday 26 July 2023 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S                                                           E/W

1st Terrence Sheedy / Eric Leivesley 1st Joyce Deguara / Antonia Tarradas

2nd Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan 2nd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris

3rd Joy Brunette / Don Poole 3rd Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz

Thursday Evening 27 July 2023 - 4 Table One Winner

1st Geoff Taylor / Annie Lynch

2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

3rd Janine Rodgers / Kevin Sheedy

Friday 28 July 2023 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S                                                           E/W

1st Terrence Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 1st David Ting / Ming Ting

2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 2nd Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

3rd Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix 3rd Cheryl Machen / Clare Wallace

Saturday 29 July 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S                                                           E/W

1st Frances Brown / Alan 1st Marilin Robins / Anne Lutz

2nd Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 2nd Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

3rd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 3rd Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch

Sunday 30 July 2023 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S                                                           E/W

1st Jewel Schmit / Terrence Sheedy 1st Faith Hutchinson / Anne Lutz

2nd Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell 2nd Dawn Field / Clare Wallace

3rd Joyce Deguara / Peter Cowling 3rd Thomas Block / Joy Block

Contributed by Joy Block

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Carol Gaskell Bronze Life Master and Janelle Conroy Gold Life Master

Clare Wallace Local Master. Photos supplied

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The summer schedule at Great Barrier Reef is filling up with Queensland Cricket confirming three matches will be staged in Mackay in the 2023-24 season.

The recently upgraded venue will host the WBBL Brisbane Heat in the Weber Women’s Big Bash League for the sixth time while the Queensland Bulls return to the region for the first time since the 2015-16 season.

The Heat will come up against the reigning title holders Adelaide Strikers for a Saturday night showdown on Saturday, November 11.

The Strikers eliminated the Heat in last season’s preliminary final, ensuring November’s match to be a thriller.

In keeping with Queensland Cricket’s ongoing commitment to bringing top level cricket to regional centres, the Queensland Bulls will make a return to Mackay, playing a Marsh Sheffield Shield game and Marsh One Day match against Victoria in October.

The Sheffield Shield game will run from October 14-17 October and the One Dayer will be played on October 19.

Prior to the arrival of the Bulls and the Heat, Mackay will host one-day and four-day matches featuring Australia A and New Zealand A from September 4.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said it was a massive coup for the region to be able to host so many top class cricket matches at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

“This venue has gone from strength to strength, and it will be tremendous to be able to showcase it, and our region, to international audiences,” he said.

“Mackay crowds love their cricket, and I have no doubt they will be out in force to support our elite Queensland and Australian teams.

“It really is fantastic to see the young fans able to interact with their sporting heroes and see them in action in their hometown.

Acting Queensland Cricket CEO Liam Hibbert said the return of the WBBL and re-introduction of domestic men’s cricket to the Mackay-Whitsunday region would continue to help with growing the game.

“The support for cricket from the areas remains strong and we are very pleased to partner again with the Mackay Regional Council, Harrup Park and Mackay Cricket Association to bring top class matches and teams to Great Barrier Reef Arena,’’ he said.

Tickets for Weber WBBL|09 matches will be available on August 24.

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The WBBL Brisbane Heat and the Queensland Bulls will return to Mackay late this year. Photo supplied: Great Barrier Reef Arena

Queensland Rugby League’s girl of the moment Emily Bella is still the same athlete from Mackay with dreams of playing in the NRLW series.

The talented playmaker captured the imagination of the sporting public earlier this month when she figured prominently in the Maroons’ Under 19 Girls Origin triumph over NSW at Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium.

A cousin of former Queensland and Kangaroos Test prop Martin Bella, young Emily is already following in the steps of her famous relative who was renowned for his punishing defence and bulldozing runs.

Blooded in her debut Origin clash as an interchange hooker, the versatile Bella played a key role in Queensland’s spirited 20-14 victory over the Under 19 Blues – nabbing a vital solo try and booting two goals to cap a superb display.

With the Maroons trailing 10-4 at the break, Queensland coach Deanna Turner introduced the crafty Bella into the match at the 36th minute mark.

And the Mackay Cutters product made a huge impact after quicksilver fullback Destiny Mino-Sinapati dashed over to score for the Maroons and bridge the gap to two points.

It was Emily’s explosive running from dummy half that turned the match for Queensland – bursting through tackles to post the Maroons third try and convert for a 14-10 lead before instigating another for centre and Cutters’ club mate Libby Surha soon after.

Coach Turner was full of praise for her charges, claiming “they just kept on turning up for each other and delivered in the second half.”

The victory over NSW is a career highlight and she experienced the feat with her Mackay colleagues Libby Surha and Lily Peacock.

19-year-old Emily, a graduate of St Patrick’s College Mackay, has always shown enormous potential as a half back or five eighth with organisational skills.

She played her junior rugby league with the Sarina Crocodiles and Walkerston Wanderers and tuned up for the Under 19s Origin with some A Grade matches for the Brothers club.

During her rise through the Cutters’ junior ranks, Bella has always been a strong defender with a sound kicking game and the ability to steer her team around the park.

She represented Queensland Country Under 17s before forcing her way into the Cutters’ Harvey Norman Under 19s squad these past three seasons.

Growing up, Emily was always inspired by her cousin Martin’s achievements that include 21 State of Origins, nine tests and 235 first grade games.

A broken finger prevented Emily from featuring in Mackay’s BMD Women’s premiership campaign earlier this year but the classy half has an immediate goal – to earn an NRLW contract with the North Queensland Cowboys.

As a devoted Cowboys supporter, she would love nothing more than to pull on a navy, grey, yellow and white jumper and mix it with the best players in the Queensland women’s ranks.

By Chris Karas

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Talented Mackay Cutters trio Libby Surha, Emily Bella and Lily Peacock hold the Under 19s Women’s Origin shield aloft after helping Queensland defeat NSW at Kayo Stadium

Emily Bella celebrates her U/19s Origin triumph with her mother Shaunagh and members of the Bella family clan

Mackay Tennis Association's Centenary Celebrations Serve Up Thrilling Success

The Mackay Tennis Association recently concluded a successful season one of tennis fixtures, showcasing increased player participation in both Division 1 and Division 2. Season one saw some excellent tennis played across the divisions, with team ‘Wanderers’ (Ranjan, Chris, Naveen, Kunal, and Hayden) emerging as Division 2 champions, narrowly defeating the ‘Invincibles’ (John, Auston, Demi, and Brian) to claim outright victory. In Division 1, team ‘Djokovic’ (Brett, Darryl, Justin, Jess, and Lexie) claimed the title, with team ‘Kyrgios’ (Jamie, Adam, Barry, Jenny, and Bree) a close runner-up.

Tennis action continues at the Mackay Tennis Association, with season two kicking off this week. MTA encourages new players eager to participate in the competition to contact the club and get involved.

An upcoming highlight for the club is the Centenary Dinner, to be held on Saturday, 9th September. The event will take place on ‘centre court,’ providing a unique and memorable experience for attendees. Tickets for the centenary dinner are available for purchase at the club or through the association's Facebook page. The dinner promises to be a memorable night, with special guests including local tennis legend Nicole Pratt and Rob Barty (father of Aussie former world number one Ash Barty), adding a touch of star power to the festivities.

Adding to the excitement of the centenary dinner, an auction of exclusive tennis memorabilia will be held. Collectors and fans alike will have the chance to bid on rackets used by legendary players such as Rod Laver, Nicole Pratt, Sam Stosur, and Daria Saville.

Additionally, a signed and framed playing shirt from Ash Barty’s successful 2022 Australian Open campaign will be among the items up for auction.

As the association embarks on its centenary celebrations, it invites the community to join in the festivities. Secure your tickets for the centenary dinner and immerse yourself in a century of tennis excellence. Don't miss this unique opportunity to be a part of Mackay Tennis Association's remarkable journey. For more information, please contact mackaytennis@hotmail.com.

Contributed by Wes Rose

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Division 1 winners

Division 2 winners

Division 1 runners-up

Division 2 runners-up

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Meteors superstar Isaac White has experienced a bittersweet week in the world of basketball.

Just days after being named in the NBL1 All-League First Team and one of three finalists for the Most Valuable Player award, a disappointed White could only watch in despair from the sidelines as the Meteors crashed out of the North Conference title race after a 94-72 quarter final loss to South West Metro Pirates in Brisbane.

White – still recovering from a torn quad – missed the sudden-death fixture against the Pirates who now square off with reigning premiers Gold Coast Rollers in a semifinal this weekend.

The Meteors were robbed of their biggest weapon when champion guard White was ruled out, making it a tough assignment for his Mackay teammates.

White was a standout in 2023 and led the League in points per game (32.7) and steals per game (2.72) – producing stellar performances each week to pilot his team to a top eight berth.

Mackay trailed by four points at quarter-time and led 39-37 at the main break before the Pirates staged a second half revival.

Christian Maran top-scored for Mackay with 16 points, three rebounds and two assists with Tyler Williams contributing 15 points, five boards and five assists, Amarco Doyle (11 points and eight rebounds) and DJ Baptiste (10 points and seven boards).

White praised the efforts of Head Coach Joel Khalu, his teammates and the Meteors program, describing it as “super professional.”

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Isaac White (left) was named in the NBL1 All-League First Team at the Basketball Queensland NBL1 presentation event and led the League in points per game (32.7) and steals per game (2.72)

Mackay's Talented Trio Impresses At QISSN Carnival

Netball and natural talent go hand in hand for talented Mackay prospects Shaylah Pershouse, Rebecca Symons and Jayden Samson.

The emerging trio underlined their potential with top performances for St Patrick’s College at the recent CQ University Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball Championships in Brisbane.

Goal shooter Symons was named St Patrick’s Most Valuable Player after helping her school finish 16th overall from 48 teams across six divisions.

Outstanding 15-year-old goalkeeper Pershouse showed a maturity that far belied her years with inspirational defensive displays throughout the tournament to earn a spot in the 2023 QISSN Carnival Rising Stars Girls Team.

It was a deserved honour for young Shaylah who will represent Queensland Schoolgirls at the SchoolSport Australia 15 years and under National Netball Championships in Jolimont, Western Australia from July 29 to August 4.

With coaches Di Bailey and Sally Redfern at the helm, the St Patrick’s combination held their own against some of the best senior netball schoolgirl outfits in the State.

Just as impressive in the Boys Division 2 ranks was the spring-heeled Samson, who spearheaded the St Patrick’s attack with his crisp passing and vision and turn of speed in mid court.

With the athletic Jayden leading the way, St Patrick’s finished a creditable fifth in their second Carnival appearance under the guidance of Nina Gaviglio and Phil Dreghorn.

As a just reward, Samson was later named in the QISSN Carnival Rising Stars Boys Team at the conclusion of the championships.

By Chris Karas

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Netball trump cards Rebecca Symons, Jayden Samson and Shaylah Pershouse shone at this year’s QISSN Carnival in Brisbane. Rebecca was named St Patrick’s College MVP while Jayden and Shaylah were named in the Rising Stars Boys and Girls Merit teams

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As Meteors Bow Out Of NBL1 North Championship Race

Meteors superstar Isaac White has experienced a bittersweet week in the world of basketball.

Just days after being named in the NBL1 All-League First Team and one of three finalists for the Most Valuable Player award, a disappointed White could only watch in despair from the sidelines as the Meteors crashed out of the North Conference title race after a 94-72 quarter final loss to South West Metro Pirates in Brisbane.

White – still recovering from a torn quad – missed the sudden-death fixture against the Pirates who now square off with reigning premiers Gold Coast Rollers in a semifinal this weekend.

The Meteors were robbed of their biggest weapon when champion guard White was ruled out, making it a tough assignment for his Mackay teammates.

White was a standout in 2023 and led the League in points per game (32.7) and steals per game (2.72) – producing stellar performances each week to pilot his team to a top eight berth.

Mackay trailed by four points at quarter-time and led 39-37 at the main break before the Pirates staged a second half revival.

Christian Maran top-scored for Mackay with 16 points, three rebounds and two assists with Tyler Williams contributing 15 points, five boards and five assists, Amarco Doyle (11 points and eight rebounds) and DJ Baptiste (10 points and seven boards).

White praised the efforts of Head Coach Joel Khalu, his teammates and the Meteors program, describing it as “super professional.”

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Isaac White (left) was named in the NBL1 All-League First Team at the Basketball Queensland NBL1 presentation event and led the League in points per game (32.7) and steals per game (2.72)

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Mackay Table Tennis players are looking good in the club’s new uniform.

Newly designed shirts and coats came into use this year, and the club is encouraging players to switch to the new look.

The shirts must be worn for representative matches, and players are encouraged to wear them during fixture play.

They can be ordered at the canteen.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Kim Daffy and Marie Taylor have their eyes on the ball during a doubles match in Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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