Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
The Sarina Spartans under 12s team at the 2025 Premiership. Photo supplied
Preparations are underway for Sarina Cricket Association’s 2026 season, with the club planning to expand their juniors and women’s programs.
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank’s Community Engagement Program supported the sponsorship of the second grade team, as well as new equipment, training area shade and a team marquee which have made a significant positive impact to club facilities and staying cool during games and training sessions.
With last season’s 88 registered members and dozens more volunteers, parents and supporters, the Sarina Spartans pride themselves on being a family-friendly club and championing community connection.
The club thrived last season, with their Under 13s and fourth-grade teams both making it to their respective grand finals and the latter taking the Premiership win.
Community Bank Sarina’s platinum sponsorship has enabled the club to grow from a single team to ten.
This year, the Spartans plan to add an 8-a-side women’s social team as well as a fourth junior mixed team, growing the game and ensuring more people can have a bat.
One of the club’s key priorities has been creating initiatives that inspire young people to stay active and competitive while making friends.
Sarina Spartans will also run their exclusive Under 8s and Under 10s program in Term 4 of this school year, spanning eight weeks and educating young people about the intricacies of the game and good sportsmanship.
“Whether your child is picking up a bat for the first time or already loves the game, we’d love to have them involved,” Mason Procak, Sarina Cricket Association President said.
Registration and expressions of interest are now open for Sarina Cricket Association’s Under 18s, Seniors and Women’s teams at www.playhq.com/cricket-australia/register/4fd7b1, with their respective seasons beginning in October.
Over twenty runners bolted from the gun in the Quota Park Myster 5k & 10k social run.
Mackay Road Runners Race Director Andrew Short planned a unique course for the Quota Park Mystery 5km and 10km social run, with runners facing an unusual challenge before they even hit the track.
In a very un-Andrew-like move, the course was not marked. However, this was all part of the plan, with Andrew verbally briefing runners on the technical course description before the start. A copy of the course map was also available for participants to view.
More than 20 participants were instructed to review the maps before the race began, which they diligently and successfully did, with everyone making it home.
It was great to welcome talented junior running sensation Aria Tobin and senior marathon runner David Wood, who both completed the 10km with ease.
Carolyn Mapes also made a welcome return to running after several weeks away due to injury, steadily pacing herself through the 5km.
There were also excellent performances in the 5km event, with legendary veterans Judy Zahn and David Isbister making light work of their outing alongside Jo Skinner, Kim Saron, Leanne Connor, Jo Hughes, Fran March, Natasha Joynson, Craig Malcolm and Bec Malcolm.
Despite next Sunday being the NRL Grand Final, Mackay Road Runners will host a warm-up event for the big game with a morning trail run from the Eungella Chalet.
As usual, all members and non-members are welcome to enjoy the scenic vistas, social camaraderie, fitness challenge and post-run refreshments available for purchase at the beautiful Eungella Chalet.
Runners can check the Mackay Road Runners website calendar at mackayroadrunners.com to confirm the 6km and 19km course distances, commencing at 7am, as well as the Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy and 5km event on October 11th from the Bluewater Lagoon.
Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse
.jpg)
Kim Ellis, Val Pilcher, Robyn Deveraux and Karina Dunn were crowned winners of the Marian Master 4’s, with runners-up Debbie Ellis, Sue Hunter, Betty Petersen and Charmayne Sleeman. Photos supplied
Marian Ladies Bowls Club recently held its Marian Master 4’s, a popular bowling event that has been running for more than 20 years.
This year’s event was sponsored by Glen Kelly, who unfortunately was unable to attend due to prior commitments.
On Monday, 64 ladies lined up to get the event underway, with the format consisting of three games played on the first day. The winners of each section of four then progressed through to the final day on Wednesday.
.jpg)
The final was played between the two winners of the morning’s games, with Kim Ellis, Val Pilcher, Robyn Deveraux and Karina Dunn taking the honours.
The runners-up were Debbie Ellis, Sue Hunter, Betty Petersen and Charmayne Sleeman.
All games were played with great sportsmanship, with plenty of laughter shared on the green throughout the event.
Marian Ladies Bowls Club greatly appreciates the sponsorship of Glen Kelly, with the club noting that as a small country club, the profit from the event helps to keep the wheels turning.
Contributed with thanks by Lyn Jackson
Photo credit: Ken Fihelly
Activities centred on the Eungella area last Saturday, as a small group led by Ken Fihelly travelled along Dalrymple Road to access Mt William, climb it, and then pick up Pretty Creek to descend in order to return via the Western Trail. Mt William is NE of Eungella,
and is covered in some sections by rich rainforest, and was currently moist and the mosses were plentiful, but so were the leeches. The participants were walking amongst the impressively large trees that Mt William is known for, and great views across to Mt Dalrymple and Mt David, and parts of the Pioneer Valley were available from the top near the old trig point. A route eastwards down to the saddle and on to the east peak was followed easily.
The group then walked down to Pretty Creek, beautiful with many moss covered trees, mostly open and gently sloping. The creek was followed downstream to the Western Trail, and out to the cars, parked near the end of Dalrymple Road.
Future activities for club members include Lineel Falls, Sydney Heads Bluff, a cycling event, and Rawson’s Creek. Enquiries regarding membership can be answered by phoning 0429 363 929.
Contributed by Carole Weekes
Pres. Frances, Lynne O’Neill, John Hunt & Diane. Photo supplied
At the Annual General Meeting, The Mary Barfield Award for 2026 for Best Performing Beginner was awarded to John Hunt, with Lynne O’Neill receiving the Monica Darley Supervised Play award. Both honours recognise dedication, improvement and enthusiasm at the bridge table. Well done
Weekly Result
Monday 21 September 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Vicki Howard / Susan Ross
3rd
Joy Block / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
Tuesday Evening 22 September 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
1st
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
2nd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
3rd
Joy Block / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen
Wednesday 23 September 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy
1st
Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Josie Cowley / Barbara Tait
2nd
Bob Ranson / Kitty Ranson
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
3rd
Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
4th
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
4th
Ming Ting / Eric Goodchild
Thursday Evening 24 September 2026 –-4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd
Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris
Friday 25 September 2026 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Jewel Schmidt / Lynne O’Neill
1st
Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
2nd
Monica Darley / Barbara Tait
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
Saturday 26 September 2026 –-11 Table Mitchell Green points
1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
1st
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice
2nd
David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd
Jewel Schmidt / Richard Wix
3rd
Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
4th
Ken Seaniger / Joy Robinson
4th
Mick King / John McGee
5th
Julie O’Neill / Gwen Liddell
5th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
Sunday 27 September 2026 –-5 Table One Winner Green points
1st
Faith Hutchinson / Mick King
2nd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Raeleen Wright
3rd
Gillian McCallum / Ming Ting
4th
Rodney Miles / Eric Goodchild
Contributed by Joy Block
Ladies Champion - Lily Boland. Photo supplied
The Mackay Table Tennis Association 2026 Closed Championships wrapped up after two busy days of competition on Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, September 13, with 44 players taking part across Open, divisional, veteranand junior events.
The Championships produced plenty of close table tennis, with matches across the program going to a deciding fifth game and several players backing up repeatedly across singles and doubles events.
In the premier events, Lily Boland claimed the Open Women’s Singles title ahead of Emma Widdup, while Goncalo Serra Gageiro won the Open Men’s Singles with Mick Ruhl runner-up. The men’s final provided an appropriate climaxto the event, with Goncalo needing all five games to overcome Mick.
Goncalo enjoyed an outstanding championship, also taking the Over 30/40 Men’s Singles and combining with Mick to win the Open Men’s Doubles. He added another doubles title alongside Janice Kent in the Open Mixed Doubles.
The Open Men’s Doubles produced some of the weekend’s best contests. Goncalo and Mick were taken to five games by Neil Brown and Steven Whiting in the final before prevailing 3–2. Earlier, Lee Brake and Graham Brake also went the distance against Barry Patterson and Abbas Irshad, while Neil and Steven survived another five-game encounter on their way to the decider.
The Open Mixed Doubles was similarly competitive. Goncalo and Janice eventually took the title, but several matches required all five games. Mick and Donna Abbott were pushed to five by Anne Sheridan and Allan Edwards, while Lily and Trent Day were also involved in a five-game battle.
Emma and Lily combined to win the Open Women’s Doubles, with Anne and Janice finishing runners-up. Emma also enjoyed a strong singles championship, winning both the Over 30/40 and Over 50 Women’s titles.
The age events demonstrated the depth of competition across the association. Steven won the Over 50 Men’s Singles, Anne claimed the Over 60 Women’s Singles, and Neil completed an impressive double by winning both the Over 60 and Over 65 Men’s titles. Judy Zahn took the Over 70 Women’s title, while Graeme Walker won the corresponding men’s championship. Pam Joyce claimed the Over 75 Women’s title and Barry won the Over 75 Men’s Singles.
Pam’s title was another of the weekend’s five-game affairs, with Gloria Vella taking her to a deciding game before Pam prevailed 3–2.
Graeme also carried the heaviest playing workload of the Championships, contesting 71 individual games across 19 matches in five events. His program included Open Singles, Open Men’s Doubles, Over 65 and Over 70 Singles, and Veteran Doubles.
Remarkably, 20 of those games came in the Over 65 Men’s event alone, while his Veteran Doubles campaign with Rachel Fiesta featured three consecutive five-game matches on the way to the final.
Graeme’s path through the Over 65 Men’s event alone included several demanding contests. He and Allan went the full five games in their round-robin group, before Graeme later needed five games to defeat Geoff Cowan in the semi-final. Neil eventually took the title in four games.
The Veteran Doubles produced perhaps the greatest concentration of five-game matches. Graeme Walker and Rachel Fiesta were involved in three consecutive five-game contests on their way to the final, while Steven Whiting and Daniel Warfield, and Allan Edwards and Pam Joyce, were among the other combinations taken to five. Steven and Daniel eventually claimed the title, with Graeme and Rachel runners-up.
Division 2 also produced plenty of drama. Delma Knight won the Women’s Singles, while Ian McKay claimed the Men’s title ahead of Oliver Hamelink. Ian’s path included a five-game win over Remy Zhan, while Peter and Logan Brown also needed all five games to settle their quarter-final.
The Division 2 Men’s round-robin stage provided one of the more unusual results of the tournament, with Allan Robins, Daniel and Logan finishing level on match points. Their final positions had to be determined using the ITTF tied-player comparison procedure, taking into account results between the tied players, games ratio and then points ratio.
Ian also partnered George Camilleri to win the Division 2 Doubles, defeating Branko Vucurovic and Tony in the final.
The junior events added another dimension to Sunday’s program. Logan won the Under 15 Singles, while Trent claimed the Over 15 title. Trent’s clash with Lily was one of the junior highlights, going the full five games before Trent prevailed 3–2.
Lily then partnered Ocean Gawander to win the Junior Doubles. The semi-final between Oliver and Logan and Trent and Will Casey was another five-game contest, with Oliver and Logan progressing before finishing runners-up.
Across the two days, the Championships provided competition for players spanning several generations and playing standards. The frequency of five-game matches across Open, divisional, veteran and junior events highlighted how closely contested much of the weekend was, with many results remaining undecided until the final game.
The Mackay Table Tennis Association congratulates all players who took part and thanks the scorers, officials and volunteers whose contribution helped make the Championships possible.
Full results from the 2026 Mackay Closed Championships are available through the Mackay Table Tennis Association website.
Contributed with thanks to Andrea Payne
Photo source: Mackay Basketball
Mackay’s U12 Starettes have claimed a silver medal at the State Championships following an outstanding tournament from the young team. The Starettes finished as runners-up, with coaches and players congratulated on their strong effort throughout the tournament.
Mackay’s Harrup Park redevelopment could take another step towards becoming a major multi-sport hub, with the state government committing $23.5 million towards the project’s second stage and calling on the Federal Government to match its investment.
The proposed redevelopment would deliver a new indoor sporting venue featuring courts for netball, basketball, volleyball and badminton, alongside indoor cricket nets and AFL training facilities. The project would also include Sporting Wheelies and Paralympian training facilities, all-abilities facilities, a gym, dormitory accommodation, community sports meeting rooms and administration offices for AFL, cricket and other community sports.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games Tim Mander said the facility would provide important infrastructure for the region.
“Mackay is a great sporting community, and it deserves to have great community sports facilities which is why we committed to help deliver Stage 2 of the Harrup Park redevelopment before the last State Election,” Minister Mander said.
“We are delivering $23.5 million through the incredibly successful Games On! program to make this happen for the people of Mackay and the region and are calling on the Federal Government to match the funding.”
The proposed development would build on Harrup Park’s existing Great Barrier Reef Arena, with the State Government describing the combined facilities as a major sporting and community hub.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the next stage could provide opportunities for both community participants and elite athletes.
“We already have the stadium for our community members to watch the best, and with this next stage of the Harrup Park community, they can aspire to be the best,” Mr Dalton said.
“We know the importance of sport to the people of Mackay, and this facility will not only encourage more community members to be active, but it will also provide better elite-level infrastructure to guide our future champions and I hope the Federal Government will support our community."
Harrup Park General Manager Adrian Young said Stage 2 was intended to support athletes throughout their sporting journeys, from grassroots participation through to high-performance competition.
“This is infrastructure that will benefit our young athletes and sporting clubs for generations, while also giving Mackay the facilities to attract major training camps, tournaments and opportunities associated with Brisbane 2032 and beyond,” Mr Young said.
“The State Government’s $23.5 million commitment has given us a strong foundation, and securing the remaining investment will allow us to deliver the full vision for our region.”
The project remains dependent on securing the additional funding, after Harrup Park was unsuccessful in its application to the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program.
“While we were disappointed to be unsuccessful through the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program, we remain hopeful that we can work constructively with the Federal Government to secure funding for this vital regional project.”
Winner Cheryle Corbett and Runner up Brenda Trannore. Photo supplied
Contributed with thanks by Sue Hazledine
North Mackay Ladies Bowls held its Consistency Final on Wednesday 16th September, with Cheryle Corbett taking on Brenda Trannore for the title.
The final produced a closely contested display of precise and consistent bowling, with both players putting in a wonderful effort throughout the game.
After a strong contest, it was Cheryle who emerged victorious, finishing the match as the Consistency winner to the delight of her fellow North Mackay ladies.
Congratulations were extended to Cheryle on her win, with Brenda also acknowledged for her efforts in reaching the final.
Photo source: Mackay SHS
Mackay State High School celebrated a successful day at the 2026 T2S Barefoot Touch Carnival, with two teams competing throughout the event.
The school’s Traffic Cones team got the day off to a strong start, claiming victory in the Relay Race.
Supa Tuff Dudes then battled through the touch competition to reach the Grand Final, where they faced Northern Beaches State High School.
The Mackay State High School side secured the win to be crowned the 2026 T2S Barefoot Touch Carnival champions, bringing the shield back to the school.
Both teams represented Mackay High with pride, teamwork and great spirit throughout the day.
The school also thanked Mackay Youth Justice and the T2S team, particularly Hiali and Sophie, for putting together an enjoyable day for the young people involved.
Members of the club who wished to walk in the perfect weather available last Sunday were able to choose, and seven opted for the beach, while another eight decided to rise to the challenge and face a day of serious climbing in the Homevale National Park.
Ken Fihelly escorted his group out to the Mt Addar Road for the start of the assault on Clarke’s Pinnacle which is about 3 km NNE of Sydney Heads. Most of the morning was taken up climbing a long steep ridge with an elevation of 350m. Saplings, vines and rock obstacles made for hard going which was rewarded by spectacular views across a wide deep valley to Clarke’s Pinnacle, which was the destination. Lunch was taken at a lookout with Sydney Heads, Mt Britton, Mt Fort Cooper and the Marling Spikes all in sight. The ascent of Clarke’s Pinnacle itself led to views of Kinchant Dam and parts of the Pioneer Valley, followed by a steep descent down a dry gully. It was a hard but rewarding walk and the journey back to the cars involved trying to avoid lantana.
Mandy Nimmo’s group assembled at Illawong Beach at 11 am to suit the tide, as Shellgrit Creek had to be negotiated early on after walking for a short distance along the beach. The destination was the mouth of Bakers Creek, and a clear blue sky and a gentle breeze made for excellent walking conditions. The offshore islands were outlined crisply, and soldier crabs were out in their hundreds. The serious photographers in the group found lots of interesting subjects, and a shady, grassy spot was found for lunch. Most of the group completed the entire distance of about 11km, and with the mountains to the south, the sparkling ocean, and the perfect conditions, a great day was had.
For more information on upcoming kayaking, cycling and walking activities, phone 0429 363 929.
Contributed with thanks by Carole Weekes
Mackay Rowing Club Masters competitors delivered a strong showing at the 2026 World Rowing Masters Regatta in Slovenia. Photos supplied
Contributed with thanks by Therese Russell.
Four Mackay Rowing Club Masters competitors took on the world’s best at the 2026 World Rowing Masters Regatta, held on Lake Bled in Bled, Slovenia, from September 9th to 13th.
The small Mackay club recorded a number of strong results across the regatta, including two gold medals.
Therese Clancy claimed gold in the WG1x before teaming up with Jane Deguara to win gold in the WG2x.
Therese also recorded a third-place finish in the WF1x, while partnering with Richard McGrath to finish fourth in the Mixed F2x.
In the Mixed G2x, Therese and Lachlan McDonald finished second.
Mick Wohlfahrt and Lachy McDonald also secured a second-place finish.
The Mackay contingent added further podium finishes in the Mixed F4x, finishing third, while the Mixed G4x crew placed fourth.
The results marked a strong showing for the Mackay Rowing Club at an international masters event.
Photo is of the finalists for "Jan Meng Memorial Doubles Competition" - (L-R) Runners Up - Coral Morgan & Judy Zahn join the Winners - Sharon Muller & George Camilleri. Photo supplied
Well done to everyone that played Season 3 Morning and Evening Fixtures. Season 4 will commence on the 6th October and please contact Donna or Steve if your interested in being part of a team.
Evening Fixtures celebrated Finals night with Division 1: Cheetahs (Goncalo Serra, Allan Edwards, Janice Kent) defeating Jaguar (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Syed Hossain) 6-2, with no 5 set matches, Janice was to strong for Graeme (10,-9,2,10).
Division 2 was not so 1 sided Cod (Delma Knight, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross) snuck home 6-5 over Dolphins (Mark Stam, Ricky Zhan, Mark Bowerman), some very good matches but Steve fought back from 2 sets down to win an incredible 5 sets to beat Mark S (-3,-12,7,5,14).
Tuesday Morning players took part in the “Jan Meng Memorial Doubles Competition”, this is a fantastic doubles competition that combines all divisions together. The top ranked player teams up with the bottom ranked player, which means we always pair up with someone different. This year was very tough but a big Congratulations to George Camilleri and Sharon Muller getting home in the final against Judy Zahn and Coral Morgan (5,-10,6,4).
Contributed with thanks by Andrea Payne
Club Team Winners Terry, Noel, Max & Diane. Photos supplied
Contributed with thanks by Joy Block
The 2026 Club Teams Championship was played last Saturday. Twelve teams competed over two sessions with the Holewa Team of Max & Diane Holewa, Noel Bugeia and Terry Sheedy being this year’s winner.
The Airlie Beach Red Point event was held Wednesday, with sixty-four members from across our Whitsunday Zone taking part.
Weekly Result
Monday 14 September 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Breok
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane
2nd
Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell
3rd
Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes
3rd
Anne Lutz / Joy Springer
4th
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
4th
Monica Darley / Joy Block
Tuesday Evening 15 September 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Mick King / John McGee
4th
Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup
Wednesday 16 September 2026 – 4 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Kath Poole / Monica Darley
1st
Robert Carless / Joy Robinson
2nd
Debbie Ludkin / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Victor Mason / John Ludkin
Thursday Evening 17 September 2026 –-4cTable One Winner Green Points
1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd
Griffin Bancroft / Mick King
3rd
Adrian Westcott / Louise Renton
Friday 18 September 2026 –- 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
1st
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
3rd
Diane Cox / Christine Nice
4th
Josie Crowley / Victor Mason
4th
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
5th
Faith Hutchinson / Monica Darley
5th
Jewel Schmidt / Annette Howe
Saturday 19 September 2026 –-11 Table Mitchell Green points
1st
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
1st
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan
3rd
Susan Wright / Faye Wright
3rd
Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner
4th
Sue Mayer-Miller / Geoffrey Patterson
4th
Kay Jones / Dianne Cook
5th
Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice
5th
Ken Seaniger / Joy Robinson
(L) Event Winner Lois Deguara with Runner up Karina Dunn. Photo supplied
Contributed with thanks by B. Trannore and S. Hazledine
Ladies Master Singles was played at Mackay Club over the weekend, and it was another exciting event in the Ladies Bowling Calendar for 2026.
Congratulations to Lois Deguara from North Mackay Club defeating South Suburban player Karina Dunn 25-18 in a very exciting Final. Well done to all those who played in this wonderful event.
Photos supplied
Contributed with thanks by Community Bank Sarina
Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank was proud to once again support Sarina Surf Life Saving Club’s annual Cruisin’ The Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim as the returning naming rights sponsor for 2026.
The event offered something for everyone, bringing the local community together for a morning of walking, running and ocean swimming. With events ranging from a 1km run through to a half marathon, as well as 1km and 2km ocean swims, there were plenty of ways for people of different ages and fitness levels to participate.
Community Bank Sarina Board Chair Karen May said the event was “a fantastic opportunity for family and friends to connect and enjoy what our community has to offer”.
“Whether they chose to walk, run, or swim, it was wonderful to see everyone enjoying the day at their own pace and being reminded of why we love our community so much,” Mrs May said.
Alongside the race events, Sarina Surf Life Saving Club volunteers provided a BBQ breakfast through the Club’s canteen, while many others gave up their time on Father’s Day to assist with the event.
Sarina Surf Life Saving Club Treasurer Kylee Richardson said the Club was extremely grateful for the contribution of its volunteers.
“We want to say a massive thank you to all our volunteers, especially for giving up their Father’s Day to assist us with the event. From traffic marshals to those manning water stations, assisting with check-ins, water safety and our canteen, every contribution was greatly appreciated,” Mrs Richardson said.
Mrs Richardson also acknowledged the support of the event’s sponsors and Race Day Ambassador Macey Ronald.
Cruisin’ the Coast is the Club’s principal annual fundraiser, raising much-needed funds to support its ongoing work in the community.
The Club is 100 per cent volunteer-run, making community support an important part of its ongoing work. This year’s event is expected to have raised well over $17,500 for the Club.
For Community Bank Sarina, supporting the 2026 Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim is another way to stand alongside Sarina Surf Life Saving Club and continue supporting local organisations and initiatives that bring people together and make a difference.
Congratulations to Alf Lewis, who won the Senior Singles Final at Northern Mackay Bowls Club last Saturday afternoon.
Lewis defeated Alan Cooney 25-23 in a tightly contested game to claim the title.
He will now progress to the District Champion of Champions Final later this month.
Photos supplied
Contributed with thanks by Carole Weekes
The bushwalker club’s activities were centred on the Mt Ossa area last Sunday, and eleven members left town in a convoy at 8 am, ready to start walking by 9.30 either in the Mt Ossa National Park or around a private property nearby. A group of six accessed the creek that marks the start of the route up to the plateau that connects with Mt Ossa. Rainforest was soon replaced by dense grass trees as the walkers, guided by Ken Fihelly, continued the climb. After a steep pull, the participants arrived at the lookout, admiring the views over the farmlands to Mt Dalrymple in the west and Mt Blackwood to the south east. The eastern edge of the plateau was followed northwards, among the rocks and grass trees. The group turned around where the plateau starts to descend towards Ossa Creek, and after lunch, returned along the western edge.
Meanwhile the five walkers who had chosen the less challenging option were covering about 6 kms by following the farm boundary fences and encountering a variety of terrain including gentle gullies, open forest and grassland, steep ascents and descents over rough tracks, and flat headlands. The distant hills and mountains, stately forest giants, a mix of farm animals, some very young, and a vocal kookaburra at close range, and a snake at even closer range, all made for a pleasant day in the delightful area. Lunch was taken beside a dam and within sight of horses, sheep and goats. A short stroll along a dirt road led us back to the cars for the return trip to Mackay.
Photo supplied
Well another season is nearly over, next Tuesday Night we are playing finals, please come and watch and join the Round Robin.
EVENING FIXTURES - Season 3
Division 1: Jaguars (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Syed Hossain) defeated Cheetahs (Neil Brown, Janice Kent, Allan Edwards) 6-5, with Janice and Graeme having a great battle that could have gone either way (-4,4,9,-9,11). Leopards (Steve Whiting, Geoff Cowan, Dilini Ranasinghe) won against Lions (Graham Brake, Josh Brown, Will VanDaKaa) 7-4, Geoff outlasted Graham B in close 5 sets (-8,5,9,-9,4). Tigers (Lily Boland, Anne Sheridan, Remy Zhan) won 7-4 over Pumas (Trent Day, Yilin Jiang, Duncan Treloar), Remy was to strong for Trent (13,8,-8,-7,6). Hawks (Robbie Richards, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson) defeated Magpies (Barry Patterson, Rod Mahumas, Abbas Irshad) 7-4, Andrea overcame Rod to win in close 5 sets (-8,7,7,-6,7).
Division 2: Bass (Daniel Warfield, Tiffany Camilleri, Jeff Bennington) got home against Cod (Mark Sleeman, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross) 7-4, Darryl just outlasted Tiffany (10,-9,5,-11,10).Squid (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson) got home 3-2 over Cuttlefish (Ian McKay, Logan Brown), with each team missing a player, George and Peter snuck home in 4 sets against Ian and Logan (9,-4,8,11).
Dolphins (Mark Stam, Mark Bowerman, Ricky Zhan) defeated Mackeral (Ollie Hamelink, Craig VanDeKaa) 6-5, Ricky and Ollie had a great match with Ricky winning (6,-9,6,-9,8).
Trout (Tony Bowman, Liz Burton, Bill Constanti) overcome Grunter (Lochlan Loy, Rachel Fiesta, Jason Lee) 10-1, with no 5 set matches Tony won close match against Lochlan (-11,3,5,9).
Contributed by Andrea Payne
Debra Cody (L) and Sally McGlashan after completing their swims.
Contributed with thanks by Dan Stampa
In a break with the traditional Saturday “Jim Session” the North Mackay Sinkers came together on Saturday 12th for a huge morning of swimming as the club hosted its Endurance 1000 event — part of Masters Swimming Australia’s long‑running national aerobic program designed to encourage swimmers to complete distances from 400 metres through to 60‑minute swims.
Held at the DMR Memorial Swim Centre, our regular training venue, swimmers and volunteers were greeted by good weather, crystal clear water and the always comfortable pool temperature and beautiful grounds.
More than 20 members hit the water, taking on a variety of Endurance 1000 swims — from steady 400s and 800s to longer aerobic efforts. The program rewards consistency and participation, with points earned for completing different events that contribute to the club’s overall tally in the national standings. Individuals can complete a maximum of 62 swims for 1005 points including 5 each of difficult 400 and 800 m butterfly swims.
After the swims wrapped up, members stayed on deck for a relaxed BBQ breakfast, sharing stories from the morning and celebrating the effort put in across all lanes. It was the perfect way to round out a productive and enjoyable club session.
The Endurance 1000 program continues to grow nationally, with increasing participation each year. For the Sinkers, events like Saturday’s session help build aerobic fitness, strengthen club culture, and contribute valuable points toward the wider Masters Swimming Australia rankings.
The latest points earned have moved the club to its highest points tally in over a decade. Future events are planned during the remaining portion of the year and should propel the club well in the State and National annual standings.
Avid Mackay Road Runners braved the very warm temperatures and coolish breezes for the inaugural Boomerang Hotel 5k & 10k social run
The latest Mystery Run delivered plenty of standout performances and unexpected highlights, with Race Director Andrew Short marking the course from the Boomerang Hotel.
Among the top 10 highlights were:
Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse
Sue, Martin, Janelle & Janine. Photo supplied
Twelve teams took part in this week’s Unders & Overs event, with ‘Unders’ defined as players with less than 100 Masterpoints as at 30/06/25. Congratulations to the winning team - Sue Mayer Miller, Martin Pearce, Janelle Conroy & Janine Rodgers.
Weekly Result
Monday 7th September 2026 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
1st
Ming Ting / Jennifer Cameron
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Annette Howe
2nd
Nancy Martin / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Glen Cocup
3rd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
4th
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
4th
Monica Darley / Joy Block
Tuesday Evening 8th September 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Mick King / John McGee
4th
Chelsea Presley / Alison Pighills
Wednesday 9th September 2026 – Unders and Overs Teams - 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
Team
Players
1st
Mayer-Miller
Sue Mayer-Miller / Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy / Martin Pearce
2nd
Schmidt
Jewel Schmidt / Janet Hansen / Annette Howe / Alan Brown
3rd
Fitzpatrick
Christine Fitzpatrick / Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz / Louise Renton
4th
Rassmussen
Patrick Rassmussen / Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson / Errol Morris
Thursday Evening 10th September 2026 –- 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd
Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
4th
Louise Renton / John McGee
Friday 4th September 2026 –- 17 of 26 NWP - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
3rd
Louise Renton / Christine Nice
4th
Gillian McCallum / Rod Miles
4th
Ming Ting / David Ting
5th
Diane Cox / Anne Lutz
5th
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
Saturday 12th September 2026 –-12 Table Mitchell Red points
Team
Players
1st
Holewa
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa / Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Goodchild
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild / Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Brown
Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
4th
Harris
Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill / Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch
Contributed with thanks by Joy Block
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School
Whitsunday Anglican School students battled it out on the field earlier this month, with Trinity House crowned the winners of the school’s inaugural Interhouse Football Competition.
A representative from Whitsunday Anglican School said the competition had provided plenty of excitement both on and off the field.
“It has been an amazing couple of weeks of competition between all four Houses. There has been plenty of intensity on the field, but more importantly, lots of fun!” the representative said.
“It has been fantastic to see so many students getting behind their Houses and showing their House spirit.”
The competition also gave students who may not normally play football an opportunity to take part and try something new.
The school thanked students, parents and staff for supporting the competition, while also recognising Mr Song and Mr Carter for their work in bringing the event together.
“A big shout-out to Mr Song and Mr Carter for their efforts in putting together this competition. What energy and passion our students have for sport!”
Mackay North State High School’s cheer, hip hop and contemporary teams have taken out three state titles and two Grand Champion crowns at the Queensland State Championships. Photos supplied by Mackay North State High School
Months of early mornings, sacrificed lunch breaks and weekend rehearsals have paid off, with Mackay North State High School securing three state titles and two Grand Champion crowns at the Australian All Star Cheerleading Federation Queensland State Championships.
The school’s cheer, hip hop and contemporary teams each placed first on the Gold Coast at the weekend. The cheer team was also named Grand Champion after achieving the highest score across its broader level, while the contemporary team was crowned overall scholastic dance champion after recording the highest-scoring routine across all school dance divisions.
The event marked the cheer team’s first away competition and the dance teams’ first outside Mackay in several years.
Cheer coach and teacher Kelly Munt said the 23 athletes had to master different moves and sequences while working together to execute one seamless routine.
“We knew the potential (to win) was absolutely there,” Mrs Munt said.
“We’ve got some super talented and dedicated athletes across the board.”
Their preparation paid off when the cheerleaders “hit zero”, meaning they executed the fast-paced routine without receiving a single deduction.
“I gave the kids a pretty challenging routine, if I’m being honest, for a school team,” Mrs Munt said.
“For them to go out there, have a belief in themselves and put that on the floor was incredible.”
Year 11 cheer student Erin Insch said the unexpected result prompted celebrations and “a couple of happy tears” from her peers.
North High offers cheer as a subject from Years 8 to 10, while senior students can give up their flexible learning time to continue training and mentor younger athletes.
Erin said the program helped to build friendships across year levels and demanded complete trust, with every athlete’s performance affecting the entire routine.
“You have to rely on the other girls,” she said.
“You earn so many relationships and friendships between all the grades as well.”
Dance teacher and coach Darci Martyn said the school had enjoyed success at local competitions, including Mackay’s Infinite Spirit event, but this was its first triumph at state level.
She said the win was unexpected and a “great” reward for the students who had helped choreograph “really beautiful” routines.
The students are now chasing back-to-back titles in 2027 and hope to eventually represent North High at a national competition.
Last Sunday’s club activities were both centred in the Finch Hatton Gorge area, with a group of the more adventurous members venturing off track towards Dooloomai Falls, and six others heading up the well-used pathway to Araluen Falls for morning tea and then continuing further up to inspect Callistemon Crossing before turning back.
After an early start from town, the first group followed the track nearly to the Wheel of Fire Falls before climbing a steep ridge to the west, and then descending to the junction of the left and right branches of Finch Hatton Creek. This was followed by a steep scramble to the bottom of Dooloomai Falls, before following an old National Park track to the top, which led to spectacular views. The return to the cars involved negotiating a track overgrown with Wait-a-While which eventually showed the way back to the main track.
As for the more leisurely walkers who had left town an hour and a half later, many photos were taken and much reminiscing took place as the members made their way up to Araluen Cascades where a few other groups were admiring the scenery or braving the cold water in the swimming hole. Although the original plan was to explore no further, a decision was made to follow the track as far as the creek crossing, and one or two tested out their skills by venturing part way across. The group included a few who had been walking together for decades, and many past adventures were recalled, some involving climbing Mt Dalrymple.
Further information about the club can be obtained by phoning 0429 363 929 and future outings are planned to Mt Ossa, Clark’s Pinnacle, and along the beach to the mouth of Bakers Creek.
Contributed by Carole Weekes
Thirty-one Mackay Bridge players attended the Yeppoon Congress last weekend. Mackay players played their cards well, with Annette Howe and Jan Harris coming third in C Grade Pairs. Teams Brown, Holewa and Sheedy finished in the top 10 A Grade Pairs. Team Lynch – Annie Lynch, Sandra Morris, Jan Harris and Annette Howe took out the honors in B Grade Teams finishing first, with Team Garner coming in third. All players finished above their gradings. Beginner Louise Renton attended her second Congress this year, well done Louise!
Weekly Results
Monday 31 August 2026 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
1st
Monica Darley / Janice Mansfield
2nd
Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes
2nd
Nancy Martin / Geoff Taylor
Tuesday Evening 1 September 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris
2nd
Lynne O’Neill / Terry Sheed
3rd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
3rd
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th
John McGee / Mick King
4th
Shirley Worland / Ann Whitmore
Wednesday 2 September 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
3rd
Andrew Canavan / Kath Poole
3rd
Monica Darley / Jennifer Cameron
4th
Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
4th
Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
Thursday Evening 3 September 2026 –- 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
4th
Andrew Canavan / Jan Harris
Friday 4 September 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Roland Taylor / Lynne O’Neill
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Christine Fitzpatrick / Joy Block
3rd
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
3rd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
4th
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
Saturday 5 September 2026 –-12 Table Mitchell Red points
1st
Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes
1st
Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch
2nd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
2nd
Adrian Westcott / Faye Wright
3rd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
3rd
Anne Lutz / Thelma Caruana
4th
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
4th
Geoff Cowan / Karen Cardwell
5th
Ming Ting / David Ting
5th
Geoffrey Patterson / Patrick Rasmussen
Contributed by Joy Block
Photos supplied by North Mackay Bowls Club
An exciting weekend of bowls worthy of the Zone Champ of Champions was held at North Mackay Bowls Club (Goosies)
First games on Saturday were the Men’s Pairs. Airlie Beach (Luke Kinnear & Manny Isgro) vs Clermont (Tony Armstrong & Joseph Aidulis) Airlie Beach took out the win 30:11
Women’s Pairs was live streamed between South Suburban (Lorna Coad & Florence Keft) vs Emerald (Jacinta Stefaniuk & Bec Pullen) South Suburban took out the win 20:10
Men’s Singles - Longreach vs Northern Beaches. Dan Cookson from Longreach took out the win from Paul Foot (Northern Beaches) 26:21
Saturday Afternoon saw the Mixed Pairs between West Tigers (Julie Leach & Ron Warnes) vs Emerald (Bec Pullen & Greg Pullen) Emerald took out the win 26:14
Men’s Fours - North Mackay (Shane Trannore, Alan Cooney, Mick Walsh & Dave McKendry) vs Clermont (Joe Aidulis, Tony Armstrong, Aaron Storer, Jamie Anderson) North Mackay took out the win 19:15
Sunday Morning - Ladies Singles. Mackay City (Emma Pash) vs Emerald (Bec Pullen) A very competitive & Exciting game to finish off the Zone Champ of Champions with Emma Pash taking the win 25:18
All winners will be back to North Mackay Bowls Club (Goosies) for the State Champ of Champions in November
A big thank you to all players and supporters. Everyone enjoyed a fantastic weekend of bowls. A very special thankyou to Vince McSherry for live streaming the event.
Contributed by Brenda Trannore and Sue Hazledine
Veronica Shepherd. Photos supplied
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1: Pirates Plunge (Andrea Nicholson, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross) defeated Pharoah Aces (Tony Bowman, Veronica Needham, Bryan Marshall) 9-3, doubles saw Andrea and Darryl outlast Tony and Bryan (10,-5,7,-9,8). Spartan Serve (Ross DeBoer, Kevin Abbott) won against Celtic Smash (Pam Joyce, John McGee) 5-4, no 5 set matches but John and Ross had a great 4 sets with Ross getting up (7,12,-7,4). Zulu Spears (Branko Vucurovic, Doug Dungavell, Veronica Shepherd) got home 7-5 against Roman Legion (George Camilleri, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn), Judy fought back to win in 5 sets over Veronica (-9,-8,11,8,9).
Divison 2: Bear Claws (Helen Ware, Pam Kuene, Louise Gould) won 7-5 over Buffalo Herd (Sally Muir, Coral Morgan, Kim Daffy), Helen defeated Sally (7,-12,10,-10,8). Dolphin Divers (Ian Dodds, Gloria Vella, Frank Caruana) overcome Cheetah Race (Ken Best, Josie Davis, Chris Collins) 7-5, Ken got up in the end against Ian (-8,-6,6,8,4).
Division 3: Amazon Guards (David Muir, Allison Day, Glenda Brookes) defeated Aztec Warriors (Janelle Kuene, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) 5-4, with Janelle and Laurie outlasting David and Allison (10,-9,6,-9,9). Gladiator Grip (Sharon Muller, Paul Sumpter, Trish Zamparutti) outlasted Mongol Power (Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott, Thelma Caruana) 7-5, with Gerry getting home against Sharon (9,6,-8,-8,6).
Tuesday Night Fixtures
Division 1: Jaguar (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Syed Hossain) won 7-4 over Pumas (Trent Day, YiLin Jiang, Duncan Treloar), Trent and Duncan outlasted Mick and Syed in close 5 sets (-10,-13,8,11,9). Cheetahs (Goncalo Serra, Allan Edwards, Janice Kent) defeated Magpies (Barry Patterson, Abbas Irshad, Rod Mahumas) 9-2, Allan made a strong comeback against Abbas (-2,-3,5,8,8). Leopards (Emma Widdup, Steve Whiting, Geoff Cowan) outlasted Tigers (Lily Boland, Anne Sheridan, Remy Zhan) 8-3, Anne snuck home against Steve (-6,8,-2,6,11). Lions (Neil Brown, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) defeated Hawks (Robbie Richards, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson) 6-5, with Robbie coming back to win over Graham B (-9,9,-6,7,11).
Division 2: (Daniel Warfield, Tiffany Camilleri, Jeff Bennington) won 7-4 against Trevally (Tony Bowman, Amanda Lui, Liz Burton), Liz overcome Tiffany to win in close 5 set match (-9,8,-8,10,7). Dolphins (Mark Stam, Ricky Zhan, Mark Bowerman) defeated Squid (George Camilleri, Logan Loy, Mahmout Ahmed) 7-4, Mark B came back against Lachlan (8,-9,-8,8,7). Cod (Delma Knight, Darryl Ross, Steve Mathieson) got home against Mackeral (Matt West, Ollie Hamelink, Craig VanDeKaa) 7-4, Ollie outlasted Darryl in massive marathon (-9,-10,3,9,12). Cuttlefish (Ian McKay, Logan Brown, David Symons) got Grunter (Rachel Fiesta, Simon Hogan, Jason Lee) 6-5, no 5 set matches but Simon won against David (5,2,-8,6).
Contributed with thanks by Andrea Payne
Mary Burston and Shirley Haynes - B Grade Singles District Final
Mackay City Ladies have risen to the challenges of District Competitions recently. Most notable was the successful efforts on the green by Emma Pash who in representing the club in the Open Singles went on to claim the District Title. She then played superbly to defeat Emerald’s representative Bec Pullen to claim the Zone Title and now heads to the State Carnival which is to be held at the Goosies in November.
Another City Lady bowler Mary Burston reached the final of the B Grade Singles only to go down in a narrow margin against her Souths opponent.
Novice player, Sue McCarthy continued ‘City’s’ success with a win against Natasha George from Seaforth Bowls Club in her first ever district event.
Not only on the green but also in the club house there have been happy occasions as long time Mackay City Bowler and current patron Barb White celebrated her 90th birthday milestone among family, friends and club members.
Contributed with thanks by Shirley Sturgeon
Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School
Whitsunday Anglican School’s Senior Boys and Girls volleyball teams competed in the Mackay Interschool Volleyball Grand Finals for the second consecutive year, with both teams earning their place in the deciders.
The Girls faced a challenging opening set before responding to level the contest in the second. A closely fought third set saw both teams battle for every point, with Whitsunday ultimately falling short of the title.
The Boys also trailed through much of the opening set before finding their rhythm and building momentum to secure a memorable Grand Final victory.
The school said the results reflected the “dedication, resilience and talent” of its students, with the teams representing Whitsunday Anglican School with pride.
The school also acknowledged the support of Mr Wheaton, Dr Sunner, Mrs Bennington and Mr Nixon, as well as members of the wider Whitsunday school community who attended the finals.
Whitsunday Volleyball is supported by coaches and mentors Mrs Suzanne Weatherhead, Mrs Val Allen, Mr Shamus Stayt and Ms Nadya Millecam.
In an online post, a representative from Whitsunday Anglican School said Mrs Weatherhead, a former National Volleyball player, brings “an extraordinary passion and love for the game” alongside strong technical and tactical knowledge.
With the Mackay Interschool Volleyball season now complete, the teams will now turn their attention to the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup on the Gold Coast in December!
Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Greg Williamson and major sponsor Forsyths Accounting’s Partner Nicole White share the Shawn Claydon Memorial Shield awaiting the 2026 male and female winners.
The eighth annual Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield and 5km Club Championship, along with the inaugural Rules of Running Under 12s 3km, brought runners and the wider community together for a memorable morning of racing.
Held in spectacular conditions, the event featured strong community support, with Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson, Forsyths Accounting partner Nicole White and members of the Forsyths team, including David and Bernie Forsyth, attending to speak and officially start the 10km and 5km races.
The inaugural Rules of Running Under 12s 3km also proved a highlight, with Belinda Rule and her team sponsoring, volunteering and presenting trophies and prizes to the top three boys and girls.
Organisers thanked the many volunteers who helped make the event possible, including timekeepers and registrars Julie Whibley and Brendan Bishop, as well as Andrew Short, David Isbister and Len Howarth for their work marking the course, setting up and packing down.
The morning also featured a singing bowl ceremony led by Judy Zahn, a significant tribute to Shawn throughout his illness.
Caz’s Coffee Cart, a sausage sizzle, Zooper Doopers and Shawn’s celebration cake added to the community atmosphere, while a raffle helped raise funds for pancreatic cancer research in honour of Shawn.
The final fundraising total from registrations, raffles and donations was still being calculated.
Organisers expressed their gratitude to the community, sponsors, volunteers and Shawn’s family — Bonny and John Claydon, Sharon and Jeff Stewart-Harris, Lincoln and Aonghus — for their support.
Under 12s 3km Girls
Under 12s 3km Boys
5km Female
5km Male
10km Male
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Nippers brings confidence, team work and mateship to your children. Photos supplied by Mackay Surf Life Saving Club
‘Guardians of Harbour Beach since 1950,’ Mackay SLSC are kicking off the start of their season with “come and try” days for the whole of September. With surf education, fitness & beach skill activities, as well as a whole lot of fun being held from 8.45am each Sunday. The Nipper’s family will provide stinger suits, boards and all other equipment needed to get involved. Just bring your togs, sunscreen and a towel + Mum & Dad!
“We had a really fun season last year, it was great to see our nippers grow not only in numbers but also in their individual confidence in the surf and with learning about being a lifesaver” said Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports “Our parent helpers are fantastic as well, getting involved with their children and building our club culture. It really is a family orientated and welcoming sport.”
Nippers is a surf development program catering for children aged from 5 – 14 years, after which they move into the Junior & Senior lifesaving ranks. A typical Nippers morning will involve a structured warm-up & surf education such as signals, rescue techniques and reading the surf for rips or stingers (which we get very rarely), beach training such as flag / beach races and relays, then water based activities that are age appropriate. The morning finishes with a family sausage sizzle at the canteen where all nipper families catch up.
The club has a focus on developing skills from our youngest children up to our older teenagers and starts with play based confidence and skill activities for the young ones which progresses to surf sports competition training for more advanced lifesavers.
If you or your family are interested in finding out more about being a nipper, come along and try!
If you would like any more information please contact the Junior Activity Coordinator Lexi Schiffer on juniors@mackayslsc.com.au!
Contributed by Josh Grant
2026 winner of the Anne Hird Memorial Shield is Andrew Canavan. Picture shows David Hird presenting Andrew with the shield. Photo supplied
Monday 24th August 2026 –8 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st JANELLE CONROY - TEX SHEEDY 1st MARILIN ROBINS - MICK ROBINS
2nd NANCY MARTIN - GEOFF TAYLOR 2nd NOEL BUGEIA - ANDREW CANAVAN
3rd DEBRA GOODCHILD - ERIC GOODCHILD 3rd CHRISTINE FITZPATRICK - JANINE RODGERS
4th SANDY FORD - DIANE MORGAN 4th JOY HOLD - RODNEY MILES
Tuesday 25th August 2026 – 7 ½ Table Howell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st ANDREW CANAVAN - SIMON BARNES 1st MARILIN ROBINS - ADRIAN WESTCOTT
2nd JOHN MCGEE - MICK KING 2nd DIANE MORGAN - SANDRA MORRIS
3rd JANET HANSEN - LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD 3rd NOEL BUGEIA - ERIC GOODCHILD
4th PATRICIA GARNER - FAYE WRIGHT
Wednesday 26th August 2026 –9 Table Mitchell - Green Points – Australia Wide Pairs
North / South East / West
1st JAN HARRIS - SANDRA MORRIS 1st DIANE HOLEWA - MAX HOLEWA
2nd ALAN BROWN - FRANCES BROWN 2nd TEX SHEEDY - LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD
3rd MING TING - DAVID TING 3rd GEOFFREY PATTERSON - SANDY PATTERSON
4th JANELLE CONROY - NOEL BUGEIA 4th JANET HANSEN - DIANE MORGAN
Thursday Evening 27th August 2026 –3 ½ Table Howell - Green Points
=1st SIMON BARNES - ADRIAN WESTCOTT
=1st ANNE LUTZ - GEOFF TAYLOR
3rd JAN HARRIS - ANDREW CANAVAN
Friday 28th August 2026 – 5 ½ Table Howell - Green Points
1st GEOFF TAYLOR - JOY ROBINSON
2nd GRIFFIN BANCROFT - ERROL MORRIS
3rd MING TING - DAVID TING
4th MONICA DARLEY - JANICE MANSFIELD `
=5th DIANE STOKES - ALEC MCQUEEN
=5th LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD - DEBRA GOODCHILD
Saturday 29th August 2026 – 7 ½ Table Mitchell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st MING TING - DAVID TING 1st ROBERT CARLESS - GRIFFIN BANCROFT
2nd JOY ROBINSON - KEN SEANIGER 2nd ERIC GOODCHILD - DEBRA GOODCHILD
3rd JOYCE DEGUARA - VICTOR MASON 3rd ERROL MORRIS - ALEC MCQUEEN
4th JENNIFER CAMERON - IAN GASKELL
Contributed by Robert Carless
(L) Donna Abbott, (R)Tony Bowman. Photos supplied
Tuesday Evening Fixtures
Division 1: Pumas (Trent Day, YiLin Jiang, Duncan Treloar) defeated Lions (Josh Brown, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) 7-4, with YiLin fought his way back against Will to win in 5 set show down (-7,2,-7,7,8). Jaguar (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Syed Hossain) won 8-3 against Hawks (Robbie Richards, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson), Graeme was to strong for Andrea (5,7,-6,-6,6). Cheetahs (Goncalo Serra, Neil Brown, Janice Kent) won convincingly 10-1 over Tigers (Lily Boland, Anne Sheridan, Remy Zhan), Neil had a marathon with Anne (6,-5,17,-9,9). Magpies (Barry Patterson, Rod Mahumas, Abbas Irshad) scraped home 6-5 against Leopards (Geoff Cowan, Emma Widdup, Donna Abbott), Abbas sneaking home to win against Geoff (-9,10,-10,4,7).
Division 2: Cuttlefish (David Symons, Logan Brown, Ian McKay) defeated Mackeral (Matt West, Ollie Hamelink) 7-4, Ian was lucky to sneak home against Matt (-9,7,8,-10,9). Trevally (Liz Burton, Tony Bowman, Amanda Lui) won 7-4 over Squid (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson), George & Peter got across the line against Tony & Liz (-3,5,-8,-10,7). Cod (Delma Knight, Darryl Ross) won 5-4 against Grunter (Simon Hogan, Jason Lee), the doubles Delma & Darryl fought their way back in 5 sets against Simon & Jason (-9,-9,10,2,4). Dolphins (Ross DeBoer, Mark Bowerman, Ricky Zhan) defeated Bass (Jeff Bennington, Daniel Warfield, Veronica Shepherd) 7-4, Daniel outlasted Ricky in close 5 set match (-9,5,7,-6,8).
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1: Zulu Spears (Branko Vucurovic, Doug Dungavell, Veronica Shepherd) defeated Pirate Plunge (Andrea Nicholson, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross), double saw Doug & Branko to strong for Andrea & Steve (11,6,-10,-10,7). Celtic Smash (Donna Abbott, Pam Joyce, John McGee) got home against Pharaoh Aces (Tony Bowman, Bryan Marshall, Peter Goodson) 8-4, Donna only just outlasted Tony (2,-4,-7,8,11). Spartan Serve (Delma Knight, Ross DeBoer, Kevin Abbott) overcame Roman Legion (George Camilleri, Veronica Needham, Judy Zahn) 7-5, with Veronica came back to win in 5 sets against Kevin (8,-7,-8,2,9).
Division 2:Cheetah Race (Ken Best, Josie Davis, Chris Collins) defeated Bear Claws (Helen Ware, Gloria Vella, Louise Gould), Helen came back to win over Chris (11,-5,10,-3,6). Buffalo Herd (Sally Muir, Coral Morgan, Kim Daffy) won 8-4 over Dolphin Divers (Gloria Vella, John Hamelink, Frank Caruana), John outlasted Kim to win in 5 sets (-8,-9,5,8,7).
Division 3: Amazon Guards (Allison Day, David Muir, Glenda Brookes) defeated Mongol Power (Iris Grasso, Robyn Giles, Myles Dutton) 8-4, Allison to strong for Myles (7,-2,5,-8,7). Aztec Warriors (Janelle Kuene, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) won 8-4 against Gladiator Grip (Sharon Muller, Trish Zamparutti), Sharon came back to win in 5 sets against Laurie (9,-8,-9,10,9).
There is something wonderfully simple about blokarting. All it takes is a sail, three wheels, a stretch of beach, and the wind to do the rest.
It’s not too physically demanding, but it does require critical thinking, an understanding of how to go with the wind, and a passion. That passion has already captivated many members of the community through the Central Queensland BlokartClub.
This weekend, the club will participate in the annual regatta at Cape Hillsborough Beach, with competitors travelling from across Queensland as well as Melbourne and Sydney.
The regatta is open to the public to watch, with members encouraging locals to come down, set up a chair and enjoy the show of over thirty blokarts zooming across the picturesque beach over two days on Saturday 5th September and Sunday 6thSeptember.
Club member George Camilleri has been blokarting for around seven years. A former sailor, he was looking for a way to continue sailing without the physical demands of handling a larger boat.
After being encouraged to try a blokart, he was quickly hooked.
“I tried one, and I realised, this is for me,” George recalls.
The sport has also attracted Paul Ross, who is originally from the UK and joined around two-and-a-half years ago after seeing members blokarting while walking along the beach at Shoal Point. He had never sailed before but was invited to have a free trial using a club kart.
Within about six weeks, he had bought his own.
“I thoroughly enjoyed it, and so within about six weeks, I’d already bought my car, and that was it – I’m still here enjoying it!” Paul enthused.
For Paul, one of the sport’s greatest strengths is its accessibility.
“I’ve never done sailing in my life. But it’s very easy and all it takes is a bit of common sense.”
The club holds social sailing and Come and Try opportunities where newcomers can have a go in club karts before deciding whether they would like to take the sport further. Families are encouraged to participate, with club members recalling children and parents enjoying rides together.
The club is also working to introduce more young people to blokarting, with members engaging with schools and community groups.
President of the Central Queensland Blokart Club in Mackay Dave Moore, said the club is keen to “bring in some of the younger generations” and help broaden the sport’s future.
“Our youngest is eight, and our oldest is over eighty – so there’s no age limit, and it’s a whole lot of fun.”
“You can get up to 80 kilometres an hour on a good day of wind, but it’s incredibly safe and a really interesting, inclusive sport.”
Locals are encouraged to head to Cape Hillsborough for the regatta this weekend, where they can watch the racing, enjoy the beach atmosphere and witness the camaraderie and friendly competition of blokarting.
An excellent display of running from approx. 30 junior athletes in the Podiatry Mackay Junior Magic Mile.
Runners took to the Mackay Marina Breakwater on Sunday morning for the Nth Qld Bulk Ports Open and Podiatry Mackay Magic Mile, with ideal weather conditions helping produce strong performances across the junior and open events.
The event, which began at 7am, was made possible through the generous support of Nth Qld Bulk Ports, allowing the Breakwater to temporarily close to vehicles.
Podium winners were recognised across the U13, U18 and Open categories, with Harper Miles, Sonny Moon, Ayla Moon, Riley Rogers, Rebecca Malcolm and Jared Mackie taking top honours in their respective events.
The Magic Mile Milo was awarded to Mason Thompson for his inspirational efforts.
Mackay Athletics President Paul Tilse thanked the volunteers, sponsors, supporters and athletes who helped make the morning possible, as well as the Mackay Marina community for its patience during the temporary road closure.
Attention now turns to next Sunday’s Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield and 5km, alongside the inaugural Rules of Running under-12 3km, beginning at 7am at Queens Park. All 10km and 5km registrations will be $10, with 100 per cent donated to Pancare.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
This week, members of the Mackay Bushwalkers’ Club were able to choose between climbing Mt Jukes, the awesome double humped landmark within the Pioneer Peaks National Park, or a more relaxing outing along the recently upgraded Pioneer Valley Rail Trail.
Walkers at each location were exposed to plenty of scenic countryside, with those who reached the top of Mt Jukes having expansive views in many directions, and the valley walkers taking in distant ranges and lots of farming activity as they covered about 8kms each way, starting at Gargett and returning the along the same path.
For the ladies walking the Valley track, the cloud cover made for pleasant walking, but as the sun emerged, it became hot along the open sections. The first section of the trail had received grading, blue metal and drainage pipes, and an early morning tea was enjoyed at the creek. The participants were serenaded by a variety of birds as two Ulysses butterflies flittered around, and the small group led by Mandy Nimmo had the track to themselves.
Meanwhile, another group of about the same size with a more challenging undertaking, guided by Peter Bennett and Ken Fihelly, enjoyed the sunny winter weather amongst a variety of interesting plants ranging from the tangled roots, buttresses and vines of a rainforest environment to ferns, epiphytes and healthy clumps of grass trees. Although this walk is rocky, steep in places and can be tiring, the stunning views of the distant valleys and mountains make it all worthwhile.
Just as the club has in recent times offered mountains, creeks, beaches, waterfalls and bush tracks, a similar variety of habitats awaits current members and fresh recruits in the upcoming months. Phone our membership secretary on 0429 363 929 for details about our online induction process and our joining fees.
Contributed by Carole Weekes
The 10th anniversary of The Anne Hird Memorial Shield was played this Month with 18 Novices vying for the Trophy. Andrew Canavan being the 2026 winner. It’s an individual event and to be a contender, you cannot be a previous winner. The player has to be under 100 Masterpoints and play 3 sessions with 3 different ‘Overs’. David Hird presented the shield and ‘Beanies for Brain Cancer’ to Andrew and his 3 partners.
Weekly Results
Monday 17 August 2026 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
David Hird presenting trophy to Andrew
1st
Rosalyn Stevens / Marilin Robins
1st
Diane Morgan / Sandy Ford
2nd
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
2nd
Joy Hold / Rodney Miles
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
3rd
Annette Howe / Jan Harris
4th
Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft
4th
Monica Darley / Joy Block
Tuesday Evening 18 August 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
1st
Lynne O’Neill / Terry Sheedy
2nd
John McGee / Mick King
2nd
Marilin Robins / Adrian Westcott
3rd
Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris
3rd
Patricia Garner / Faye Wright
Wednesday 19 August 2026 – Anne Hird Memorial Week 3 of 3 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Joy Block / Sandy Patterson
1st
Ian Gaskell / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Martin Pearce / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Alan Brown / Andrew Canavan
3rd
Mary-Jane Marsh / Janine Rodgers
3rd
Diane Stokes / Diane Cox
Anne Hird Memorial Shield Final results after 3 weeks of play
1st Andrew Canavan
2nd Sue Mayer-Miller
3rd Joy Block
Thursday Evening 20 August 2026 –- 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Mick King
4th
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 21 August 2026 –- 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd
Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Geoffrey Patterson / Kath Poole
Saturday 22 August 2026 –- B2 of 2 - 12 Table Mitchell Red points
1st
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
1st
Geoff Cowan / Annette Howe
2nd
Shirley Worland / Joyce Deguara
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Christine Nice
3rd
Lynne O’Neill / Janine Rodgers
4th
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
4th
Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin
Saturday 22 August 2026 –- B4 Final - 12 Table Mitchell Red points
1st Lynne O’Neill / Janine Rodgers
2nd Robert Carless / Janelle Conroy
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
Contributed by Joy Block
The BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival returns September 19th–20th, welcoming competitors of all abilities for a weekend of sport, community and active fun. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
A Mackay sporting tradition spanning more than four decades will return to the harbour next month, with athletes, families, first-timers and seasoned competitors set to come together for the 2026 BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival on September 19th and 20th.
Dating back to 1984, the Festival has grown into a two-day celebration of triathlon and multisport, welcoming everyone from juniors and first-time competitors to experienced Age Group athletes.
Saturday’s program features 500m, 1km and 2km Ocean Swims and Kids Races, followed by Sunday’s main program of Triathlon, Duathlon, Aquabike and Aquathlon events, with Enticer, Sprint and Standard distance options available.
Mackay Triathlon Club President and Race Director Stephanie Allen said the Festival’s strong community focus remained at the heart of the event.
“There is something really special about knowing triathlon has been raced in Mackay since 1984. Generations of local athletes have been part of this event, and we're incredibly proud to continue that tradition in 2026.”
For those considering giving the sport a try, Ms Allen said the Festival offered an accessible starting point for competitors of all abilities.
“You don’t need to tackle the full distance for your first event. We’ve got smaller events that you can start with, and as you train more and get a little bit stronger, you can progress up to the bigger events from there.”
At the Mackay Triathlon Festival Media Launch, held at the Mackay Harbour Surf Life Saving Club on Friday 21st August, Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed the event’s continued growth and success.
“The numbers are growing again this year, which is fantastic.”
“These sorts of events do so much for our regional community.”
Mayor Williamson said Mackay’s outdoor lifestyle offered plenty of opportunities for locals to embrace a more active way of life.
“We have 32 beaches in our region, fantastic walking tracks and fantastic running tracks, so there’s no excuse not to get involved in something that can get your metabolism going and help you stay healthy.”
Mackay Tri Club member Amanda Trend is one local who knows firsthand where taking that first step can lead. In around 18 months, she progressed from beginner events to completing a 70.3 Ironman, all while being a teacher, and a mother.
“With the support of the club and all of our training, I made it. I enjoyed myself thoroughly, and I think with that support, it makes anything possible.”
She encouraged others not to be intimidated by the challenge.
“It’s nerve-racking at the start, but you just have a go. Anything’s possible.”
Dean Williamson Dental has joined the Festival as a Major Sponsor, with owner Dean Williamson also an active member of Mackay Tri Club.
Having experienced the Club’s supportive environment firsthand, he said the community behind the sport was one of its greatest strengths.
“I love the sense of community, the support and the friendships that you get through the Tri Club.”
The Festival will also offer a potential $19,205 cash prize pool, with prize money up for grabs across age groups, junior, teams and multisport categories.
The event is proudly supported by BMA, returning as Naming Rights Sponsor for the third consecutive year with Kate Sommerville from BMA Hay Point Services participating; Mackay Regional Council, represented by Mayor Greg Williamson, supporting the event for a second year through the Mackay Events & Attractions Fund; first-time festival sponsor Whitehaven; Major Sponsor Dean Williamson Dental; and North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP), providing vital infrastructure support.
North Mackay Saints volunteer Louise Goss has been recognised as a local ‘Legend of the Tongs’ for her four years of dedication to grassroots football and the club community. Photo supplied
North Mackay Saints AFC volunteer Louise Goss has been recognised for her dedication to grassroots football, being named one of Australia’s local ‘Legends of the Tongs’ as part of a national search.
For the past four years, Louise has played an important role behind the scenes at North Mackay Saints AFC, helping keep the club running and supporting its players and families.
Her involvement has included working as youth coordinator, Under 17s team manager, sports trainer and canteen volunteer.
With her husband coaching and her children playing, Louise has embraced the Saints’ family-focused culture and chosen to contribute wherever she is needed.
She said she believes every child should have the opportunity to play the game they love.
The Saints have built a strong community around making sure players have a place at the club, with every age group valued and dedicated junior presentation nights introduced.
While recruiting volunteers remains an ongoing challenge, the club continues to rely on a strong team effort to support local families and keep football thriving.
The recognition comes as the senior men’s team chases a sixth consecutive premiership, highlighting the contribution of the volunteers who help make opportunities on the field possible.
Bunnings Mackay North Complex Manager, Neil Foord, said Louise’s contribution went well beyond the BBQ.
“From firing up the BBQ to coordinating volunteers and fundraising efforts, volunteers like Louise are the heart and soul of community sport,” Neil said.
“Louise is the person who makes things happen, organising junior teams, supporting volunteers and helping deliver successful fundraising events for her club. Her tireless work behind the scenes helps create opportunities for young players and strengthens the entire club community.”
“It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to give back to clubs like North Mackay Saints AFC with equipment that helps make a real difference for their volunteers,” Neil said.
As part of the recognition, the Saints will receive a BBQ prize pack valued at more than $585, including a Jumbuck 6 Burner BBQ and pop-up marquee.
Louise is also in the running for a trip for two to attend the Toyota AFL Grand Final and the overall ‘Legend of the Golden Tongs’ title, which comes with $25,000 in products and materials for the winner’s club.
Bunnings Head of Community, Sponsorship and Events, Michelle Walter, said the initiative recognises the contribution of volunteers across grassroots AFL and AFLW.
“Legend of the Tongs is all about recognising the heart of Australian rules football – the more than 200,000 volunteers who show up week in, week out to support their clubs,” said Walter.
“Following a hugely successful first year, we’re proud to bring Legend of the Tongs back in 2026, delivering practical equipment and support that helps grassroots AFL and AFLW clubs focus on what matters most – their people and their community,” said Walter.
Nominations were open until August 16th, with winners announced weekly.
Annett, Diane, Tricia, Christine and Louise, hardworking girls. Photos supplied
A big thank you to members of the club who attended the working bee last Sunday. Many hands make light work and it seems fun galore. Afterwards a BBQ lunch and well earned drink for lunch. A big shout out to member Simon Barnes who with help from Frances, Alan, Rick and Martin replaced all the light fittings at the club earlier in the week. This was such a generous contribution of Simon’s time and expertise. No more glare on the cards. Well Done and Thank You Simon!
Weekly Results
Monday 10 August 2026 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Monica Darley / Joy Block
1st
Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Nancy Martin / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Rosalyn Stevens / Marilin Robins
3rd
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
Tuesday Evening 11 August 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown
1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Patricia Garner / Faye Wright
2nd
Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup
3rd
Simon Barnes / Andrew Canavan
3rd
Marilin Robins / Adrian Westcott
Wednesday 12 August 2026 – Anne Hird Memorial Week 2 of 3 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Sue Mayer-Miller / Noel Bugeia
1st
Simon Barnes / Jennifer Cameron
2nd
Louise Renton / Jan Harris
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Annette Howe
3rd
Joy Block / Diane Stokes
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Ann Whitmore
4th
Debbie Ludkin / Patricia Garner
4th
Geoff Taylor / Diane Cox
5th
Andrew Canavan / Frances Brown
5th
Anne Lutz / Colleen Riddel
Thursday Evening 13 August 2026 –- 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Rodney Miles / Terry Sheedy
1st
Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill
2nd
Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Mick King / Griffin Bancroft
3rd
John McGee / Adrian Westcott
3rd
Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes
Friday 14 August 2026 –- 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor
1st
Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd
Monica Darley / Barbara Tait
2nd
Joy Block / Christine Fitzpatrick
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Mick King / Geoff Cowan
Saturday 15 August 2026 –- B1 of 2 - 12 Table Mitchell Red points
1st
Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
2nd
Jan Harris / Griffin Bancroft
3rd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Lynne O’Neill / Janine Rodgers
4th
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
4th
Terry Sheedy / Christine Nice
5th
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
5th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
6th
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
6th
Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner
Contributed by Joy Block
Approximately thirty runners eagerly tackle the inaugural Farview Tavern Mystery Social 5k & 10km
Mackay Road Runners took on a challenging course through the cane country township of Farleigh at the inaugural Farview Tavern Mystery Social 5km and 10km.
The course featured a number of technical challenges, with runners tackling strong headwinds and long stretches of undulating ascents and descents. While particularly demanding for the 10km competitors, completing the course brought a strong sense of achievement for participants.
Organisers thanked Andrew Short for creating the course and said the event could become a regular fixture on the Mackay running calendar, particularly with the opportunity for participants to enjoy a post-run drink at the Farview Tavern.
The club also expressed its thanks to Jo Skinner, Steve Oberg, Andrew Short, Craig and Bec Malcolm and paramedics who came to the aid of a runner who suffered a significant fall during the final 300 metres of the 10km event.
Two NSW visitors, Kerry and Glen, also assisted after inadvertently taking a wrong turn and witnessing the incident, while local resident Maryanne provided further assistance.
Mackay Road Runners will next host its annual Signature and Club Championship Event, the North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) and Podiatry Mackay Magic Mile, next Sunday morning at the Mackay Marina Breakwater entrance.
Registrations close at 6pm on Friday 21st August. Prizes will be awarded in the NQBP Open, Podiatry Mackay Under 13 and Under 18 categories.
All runners are also eligible for the annual Magic Mile Milo Award, which will be randomly judged on the day.
Meanwhile, club captain Jim Ford continues to conduct free Wednesday afternoon track training sessions at the Aquatic and Recreation Complex (ARC) at Ooralea. The sessions focus on maintaining and developing running technique and are open to everyone, including those who are not Mackay Road Runners members.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Lily Boland. Photo supplied
Tuesday Evening Fixtures
Division 1: Magpies (Barry Patterson, Abbas Irshad, Rod Mahumas) defeated Lions (Josh Brown, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) 7-4, Abbas outlasted Graham (8,9,-7,-8,10). Jaguar (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Syed Hossain) outlasted Tigers (Anne Sheridan, Lily Boland, Remy Zhan) 7-4, Lily won a great 5 set match against Syed (4,-7,11,-5,4). Cheetahs (Neil Brown, Janice Kent) defeated Pumas (YiLin Jiang, Duncan Treloar) 4-1, with YiLin winning Pumas only match against Janice (-10,-3,9,6,9). Leopards (Emma Widdup, Geoff Cowan, Dilini Ranasinghe) just got home against Hawks (Robbie Richards, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson) 6-5, with no 5 set matches Andrea won a close battle with Geoff (10,-7,13,9).
Division 2: Cuttlefish (Ian McKay, Logan Brown, David Symons) defeated Trevally (Tony Bowman, AmandaLiu, Liz Burton), Tony and Ian both battled hard but in the end Tony won (-4,6,-11,7,8). Squid (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson) snuck home 6-5 against Grunter (Simon Hogan, Rachel Fiesta, Jason Lee), George won close win over Simon (4,-10,7,-10,6). Cod (Delma Knight, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross) defeated Dolphins (Ross DeBoer, Ricky Zahn, Mark Bowerman) 6-5, Delma and Darryl came home strong to beat Mark and Ross in 5 sets (-10,7,-8,10,9). Mackeral (Matt West, Ollie Hamelink, Craig VanDeKaa) won 7-4 over Bass (Daniel Warfield, Tiffany Camilleri, Jeff Bennington), Jeff and Craig both played very well, with Jeff getting over the line (-6,2,9,-8,6).
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1: Spartan Serve (Delma Knight, Ross DeBoer, Kevin Abbott) beat Pirate Plunge (Andrea Nicholson, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross) 9-3, Kevin overcame Steve to win great 5 sets (-2,7,11,-9,7). Celtic Smash (Donna Abbott, Pam Joyce, John McGee) defeated Roman Legion (George Camilleri, Judy Zahn, Noreen Fredericksen) 9-3, no 5 set matches Donna outlasted George (11,5,-7,7). Zulu Spears (Branko Vucurovic, Doug Dungavell, Veronica Shepherd) got home 9-3 over Pharaoh Aces (Tony Bowman, Peter Goodson, Bryan Marshall), Doug won close match against Bryan (4,-8,9,-5,5).
Division 2: Buffalo Herd (Sally Muir, Coral Morgan, Cheryl Pearson) won 7-5 over Bear Claws (Helen Ware, Gloria Vella, Louise Gould), Coral was in fine form against Louise (-10,8,5,-8,9). Dolphin Dives (Ian Dodds, John Hamelink, Frank Caruana) defeated Cheetah Race (Ken Best, Josie Davis, Chris Collins) 8-4, John got home against Chris (-6,8,-9,7,6).
Division 3: Mongol Power (Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott, Myles Dutton) won 9-3 against Gladiator Grip (Sharon Muller, Rondel Brown, Trish Zamparutti), Iris found her form coming home to win against Sharon (-11,6,7,-10,6). Aztec Warriors (Janelle Kuene, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) ended up tied 6-6 against Amazon Guards (Allison Day, David Muir, Glenda Brookes), Janelle outlasted Glenda B (5,-8,-6,4,3)
Contributed by Andrea Payne
Ken Fihelly. Photo supplied
Last Sunday a small number of club members enjoyed an outing to St Helen’s Creek, situated about a 50 minute drive northwest of Mackay. This is a beautiful rain forest water course in a National Park, and within a few kms of Mt Dalrymple itself.
The creek has been visited many times over the decades by the Bushwalkers’ Club and offers several inviting swimming holes which are particularly popular during the summer months, but on this occasion the water was too cold for any of the participants to enjoy a dip.
However, there were lots of other attractions to be found in the rich rain forest lining the banks, including butterflies and birds such as forest kingfishers and cormorants, and small black snakes, as well as the remnants of a pineapple patch, and lots of convenient slab rocks to facilitate progress along the creek.
The walkers covered several kilometres before reaching the first junction after numerous creek crossings approximately every 500 metres. The walk was led by local resident and long-term member of the club, Kate Brunner.
This Sunday, current members of the club will be able to choose between climbing Mt Jukes with club president Peter Bennett leading the troops, or walking the Pioneer Valley Rail Trail, starting out from Gargett, under the leadership of Mandy Nimmo.
Future outings on offer include Cascade Creek, a spectacular waterfall in the Finch Hatton Gorge area, and Mt Ossa. To become involved, phone 0429 363 929.
Contributed by Carole Weekes
Photo source: Mackay Softball Association Incorporated
The Mackay Men travelled to Rockhampton for another weekend of CQ Derby softball, taking on Rocky across three games.
After a hard-fought series, Mackay secured the win in the final game to cap off a successful weekend of competition.
The derby featured quality softball and strong camaraderie between the two teams, with Mackay thanking Softball Rockhampton for hosting the event.
The Dragons Abreast Mackay Inc. team. Photos supplied
24 Paddlers from Dragons Abreast Mackay (Dragon Boat Team) are heading to Aix-le-Bains in the French Alps to participate in the upcoming International Breast Cancer Paddlers Commission Festival alongside 4500 participants from all around the world.
Members of Dragons Abreast Mackay (Dragon Boat Team) recently met with Russell King (Treasurer) of RSL Mackay Sub Branch Inc. to collect beautiful commemorative pins that RSL donated for the team to wear on their hats in France to honour the connection between the Australian and French Troops during wartime.
After the festival some members will visit French Battlefields and Memorial Sites to pay their respects. Lest We Forget.
Club representative said, “Dragons Abreast Mackay are very appreciative of our wonderful Uniform Sponsors, Joyce Mechanical Services, Rimex, The Creperie Restaurant, Blucher Family and Complete Parts and Equipment. The team are fit andready to compete thanks to Evoke Fitness.
“We are all proud to be representing the great Mackay community on the World Stage and will wear our kit with so much pride whilst promoting our beautiful part of the world.”
Contributed by Janelle Moran
Photo credit: Ken Fihelly
The club’s destination on Sunday was Red Cliff Islands, both north and south, just offshore from Seaforth. The walk started around lunch time to take advantage of the low tide needed to access the causeway from the mainland, and this, plus the shorter drive and the somewhat easier nature of the walk resulted in fifteen members setting off across the first causeway to the South Island.
After a short lunch break in the shade, during which some attractively shaped and coloured rocks were admired, the causeway to North Red Cliff Island was now well clear of the water, and the track up to the lookout was negotiated. There are spectacular coastal views from here, Cape Hillsborough to the southeast, and Newry and Rabbit Islands to the northwest. There are some signs of the old WW2 observation site here also.
Then the group moved back down to sea level, and below the cliffs to begin heading north around the base of the north island. The nice slab rocks here made for easier walking than scrambling over and around the boulders. After enjoying the views of the various rock features, and some exotic creatures exposed by the low tide, the participants, led by Ken Fihelly, arrived at the impressive arch on the southeast of the same island.
After plenty of photographs were taken, the group continued to the South Island, this time following the eastern shore, viewing further rock formations including an impressive tower and a colourful sea cave. The causeway was still above water when the participants walked back to the cars. This outing, while not long in kms was rich in the diversity of interesting features to explore.
Upcoming walks include Mt Jukes, Mt Ossa, Pioneer Valley Rail Trail and Cascade Creek. Phone 0429 363 929 for details about how to become involved.
Contributed by Carole Weekes
Some of the beautiful Mackay Road Runners ladies prior to racing the Whibley’s Wander 5 & 10km annual event.
Strong performances were recorded across the field at the annual Whibley’s Wander, with Clinton Mackie and Jose Short claiming overall gold in the 12km male and female categories.
Jo Hughes and Craig Joynson were the first male and female finishers in the 5km event, navigating the meandering and slightly undulating course from Duncan Street, West Mackay, towards the Catherine Freeman Trail via Holland Street and Bridge Road before returning to the start.
The club thanked Julie and Andrew Whibley for generously hosting the Whibley’s Wander 5km and 12km from their home, as well as providing a post-run sausage sizzle and refreshments for participants.
Thanks were also extended to Andrew Short for setting up the course and collecting the signs, markers and water-stop equipment afterwards. Rohan Miles was again on hand to manage timekeeping and ensure members’ results were accurately recorded, while merchandising specialist Jo Hughes had a wide range of club merchandise available for purchase.
The club’s next event will be the Mystery 5km and 10km social run this Sunday, starting from Farview Tavern at 4pm, with runners invited to stay for a post-run refreshment.
Members are also reminded of the following Club Championship events this month:
August 23 – North Qld Bulk Ports & Podiatry Mackay Magic Mile
August 30 – Forsyths Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield and 5km, incorporating the inaugural 3km Rules of Running event for under-12s.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Ian, Errol and Mick receive their Incentive Award for July 2026. Incentive awards are for players under 50MPs with consistent results and regular attendance. Photo supplied
Monday 3rd August 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st JANELLE CONROY - TEX SHEEDY 1st NOEL BUGEIA - JOY BLOCK
2nd MAX HOLEWA - DIANE HOLEWA 2nd HELEN VAN DEN BROEK - JAN HARRIS
3rd DAVID TING - ERIC GOODCHILD 3rd GEOFF TAYLOR - NANCY MARTIN
Tuesday 4th August 2026 – 7 ½ Table Howell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st JOHN MCGEE - MICK KING 1st SANDRA MORRIS - DIANE MORGAN
2nd PATRICIA GARNER - ADRIAN WESTCOTT 2nd TEX SHEEDY - HELEN VAN DEN BROEK
3rd JANELLE CONROY - GEOFF TAYLOR 3rd MARILIN ROBINS - ROSALYN STEVENS
4th FRANCES BROWN - ANN WHITMORE
Wednesday 5th August 2026 –12 Table Mitchell - Green Points – Anne Hird Memorial Week 1 of 3
North / South East / West
1st JOHN HUNT - DAVID TING 1st JANELLE CONROY - MARTIN PEARCE
2nd PATRICK RASMUSSEN - DIANE MORGAN =2nd NOEL BUGEIA - RODNEY MILES
3rd ANDREW CANAVAN - KATH POOLE =2nd LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD - JOY HOLD
4th IAN VARY - ALAN BROWN 4th DEBRA GOODCHILD - ANNETTE HOWE
5th DEBBIE LUDKIN - GEOFF TAYLOR 5th TEX SHEEDY - JOY BLOCK
6th SUE MAYER-MILLER - JAN HARRIS
Thursday Evening 6th August 2026 –5 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st SIMON BARNES - MARTIN PEARCE 1st KEN SEANIGER - ROBERT CARLESS
2nd TEX SHEEDY - NOEL BUGEIA 2nd JANINE RODGERS - JANELLE CONROY
Friday 7th August 2026 – 10 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st MING TING - DAVID TING 1st ANDREW CANAVAN - IAN VARY
2nd JOY ROBINSON - GEOFF TAYLOR 2nd DEBRA GOODCHILD - LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD
3rd EDWARD KLIESE - NANCY WIX 3rd NANCY MARTIN - KATH POOLE
4th SANDY PATTERSON - ERIC GOODCHILD ` 4th MARTIN PEARCE - GWEN LIDDELL
5th TEX SHEEDY – HELEN BROEK VAN DEN 5th VICTOR MASON - JOSIE CROWLEY
Saturday 8th August 2026 – Nation Wide Pairs – 10 ½ Table Mitchell - Green Points
North / South East / West
1st ERIC GOODCHILD - DEBRA GOODCHILD 1st MING TING - DAVID TING
2nd JAN HARRIS - ANDREW CANAVAN 2nd JOHN MCGEE - MICK KING
3rd FAYE WRIGHT - MARILIN ROBINS 3rd TEX SHEEDY - CHRISTINE NICE
4th GWEN LIDDELL - JULIE O'NEILL 4th SANDRA MORRIS - ANNIE LYNCH
5th JOY ROBINSON - KEN SEANIGER 5th JANINE RODGERS - LAURA HOWLAND
Sunday 9th August 2026 – 5 Table Mitchell - Green Points (Beginners and Novice players only)
North / South East / West
1st PAM CASSIDY - CHRISTINE FITZPATRICK 1st JENNIFER CAMERON - GLEN COCUP
2nd DIANNE COOK - KAY JONES 2nd HELEN MCKENZIE - RAELEEN WRIGHT
Contributed by Robert Carless
Tuesday Evening Fixtures - 4th August 2026
Division 1: Cheetahs (Goncalo Serra, Neil Brown, Janice Kent) defeated Lions (Josh Brown, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) 8-3, Josh won close 5 sets against Janice (3,-7,1,-5,9). Jaguar (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Syed Hossain) outlasted Leopards (Emma Widdup, Geoff Cowan, Donna Abbott) 7-4, Mick and Emma had great battle to the end, with Mick winning (-4,9,2,-10,9). Pumas (Trent Day, YiLin Jiang, Duncan Treloar) won 8-3 over Magpies (Barry Patterson, Abbas Irshad, Rod Mahumas), Abbas snuck home against Duncan (-9,9,-5,5,10). Tigers (Anne Sheridan, Remy Zahn, Ross DeBoer) won 6-5 over Hawks (Robbie Richards, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson), Remy played well to beat Robbie in 5 sets (5,-7,-8,8,9).
Division 2: Bass (Daniel Warfield, Tiffany Camilleri, Jeff Bennington) snuck home 6-5 against Cuttlefish (Ian McKay, Logan Brown, Noreen Fredericken), no 5 set matches but Noreen won close 4 sets over Jeff (7,7,-9,10). Cod (Delma Knight, Darryl Ross, Steve Mathieson) defeated Squid (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Mahmout Ahmad) 7-4, Steve outlasted Peter in close 5 setter (8,-3,-7,6,5). Trevally (Tony Bowman, Liz Burton, Amanda Lui) won 6-5 over Mackeral (Matt West, Ollie Hamelink, Craig VanDeKaa), Liz came home strong against Ollie (5,12,-7,-9,5). Dolphins (Mark Stam, Ricky Zahn, Mark Bowerman) defeated Grunter (Simon Hogan, Rachel Fiesta, Jason Lee) 6-5, Rachel came back from 2 sets down against Ricky to win in 5 sets (-9,-7,7,7,9).
Contributed by Andrea Payne
The 71st running of the iconic Magnetic Island to Townsville swim proved to be another memorable event, marking the 17th year of the race as a cageless swim.
The 8-kilometre course begins at Picnic Bay on Magnetic Island and finishes on the Townsville shoreline directly in front of Strand Park. Swimmers are usually accompanied by a support kayaker, who provides guidance, encouragement and sustenance throughout the crossing.
This year's event attracted 73 solo swimmers, 10 duo teams and eight teams of four.
The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club was represented by Pierre Craven and Jenny Smith, who both rose to the challenge.
Pierre faced an unexpected hurdle before even entering the water when the kayak belonging to his support paddler, Geoff Hamilton, was delayed on a barge experiencing mechanical issues. Undeterred, Pierre received advice from Jane Eggins to push ahead without stopping for sustenance.
The strategy paid off, with Pierre improving on last year's time by 30 minutes and finishing seventh in his age group. He credited much of that improvement to the guidance of coach Millie at the DMR Memorial Pool, home of the Sinkers Masters Swimming Club.
Meanwhile, Geoff returned to Townsville by ferry to retrieve the kayak and, with the assistance of Theresa Hackney, caught up with Pierre about 1.5 kilometres into the swim.
For Jenny Smith, the event marked her first crossing, although she says it certainly won't be her last. Following months of training, dedication and discipline, she finished eighth in her age group, supported by a Townsville-based kayaker.
Jenny Furini and Theresa Hackney formed the on-the-ground support crew, while many more supporters cheered from Mackay.
Beyond competition, the Sinkers Masters Swimming Club prides itself on being an inclusive community, welcoming swimmers of all abilities, from experienced competitors to those returning to the pool after time away or recovering from injury.
Contributed by Gerri Kissner
Andrea Nicholson. Photo supplied
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1: Pirates Plunge (Andrea Nicholson, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross) defeated Pharoah Aces (Tony Bowman, Peter Goodson, Bryan Marshall) 7-5, Andrea outlasted Tony in close 5 sets (-10,9,6,-11,8). Spartan Serve (Delma Knight, Kevin Abbott) won against Celtic Smash (Pam Joyce, John McGee) 5-4, no 5 set matches but John and Kevin had a great 4 sets with John getting up (-5,5,10,4). Zulu Spears (Branko Vucurovic, Doug Dungavell, Veronica Shepherd) got home 7-5 against Roman Legion (George Camilleri, Noreen Fredericksen, Judy Zahn), Doug fought back to win in 5 sets over Judy (-8,-4,3,9,14).
Divison 2: Bear Claws (Helen Ware, Pam Kuene, Louise Gould) won 7-5 over Cheetah Race (Ken Best, Josie Davis, Cheryl Pearson), Ken and Josie overcome Helen and Pam to win (-7,8,-9,6,8). Buffalo Herd (Sally Muir, Coral Morgan, Kim Daffy) defeated Dolphin Divers (Ian Dodds, John Hamelink, Frank Caruana) 8-4, Coral won the marathon with John in 5 sets (4,-7,14,6,8).
Division 3: Amazon Guards (David Muir, Allison Day, Glenda Brookes) outlasted Mongol Power (Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott, Myles Dutton) 9-3, Allison got home against Iris (7,7,-4,-2,7). Gladiator Grip (Sharon Muller, Kim Challendar, Trish Zamparutti) defeated Aztec Warriors (Janelle Kuene, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) 9-3, Trish got home over Glenda (9,3,-8,-8,3).
Tuesday Night Fixtures
Division 1: Cheetahs (Neil Brown, Allan Edwards, Janice Kent) defeated Leopards (Emma Widdup, Dilini Ranasinghe, Geoff Cowan) 6-5, Janice fought her way back against Geoff to win in 5 sets (-9,-10, 5,7,7). Tigers (Lily Boland, Anne Sheridan, Remy Zhan) outlasted Magpies (Barry Patterson, Abbas Irshad, Rod Mahumas) 6-5, with no 5 set matches Remy and Rod had a great battle with Remy winning (5,7,-10,10). Jaguar (Mick Ruhl, Graeme Walker, Syed Hossain) won 7-4 over Lions (Josh Brown, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa), Josh won in close 5 sets against Graeme W (-9.8,8,-9,4). Hawks (Robbie Richards, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson) defeated Pumas (Trent Day, YiLin Jiang, Duncan Treloar) 9-2, Andrea snuck home against Duncan (6,-6,-4,13,9).
Division 2: Dolphins (Mark Stam, Ricky Zhan, Mark Bowerman) won 6-5 against Trevally (Tony Bowman, Amanda Lui, Noreen Fredericksen), Mark S came back against Noreen to win in 5 sets (-8,-3,9,9,9). Mackeral (Matt West, Ollie Hamelink, Craig VanDeKaa) defeated Grunter (Rachel Fiesta, Simon Hogan, Jason Lee) 6-5, Rachel won close match against Ollie (-5,7,6,-9,9). Cod (Donna Abbott, Darryl Ross, Steve Mathieson) got home against Cuttlefish (Logan Brown, Ian McKay, David Symons) 6-5, Steve outlasted David (-6,8,6,-6,7). Squid (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Mahmout Ahmed) defeated Bass (Daniel Warfield, Tiffany Camilleri, Jeff Bennington) 6-5, George got home against Daniel (4,9,-6,-8,5).
Contributed by Andrea Payne
Winning team - Lorna, Janelle, Terry and Noel. Photo supplied
Red, Gold & Green At The Bridge Club!
Three competitions were played last week with the final of the GNOT (Gold Points), final round of the Teams (Red Points) and the Unders and Overs Pairs (Green Points). Ten teams competed for the GNOT Final and the Founders Teams. Janelle Conroy, Terry Sheedy, Lorna Shuttlewood & Noel Bugeia took out both GNOT Final and the Founders Teams. Twenty-four pairs played in the Unders and Overs pairs, with many beginners playing with overs they would not normally get the chance to play with. The Mackay Club has a wonderful program for beginners and experienced players give of their time to play and encourage these players along their journey.
Weekly Results
Monday 27th July 2026 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Nancy Martin / Geoff Taylor
1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd
Monica Darley / Joy Block
2nd
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
3rd
Margaret Geeham / Adrian Westcott
3rd
Jaqui Morton / Robert Morton
4th
Patrick Rasmussen / Mary Rose Ramsden
4th
Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris
Tuesday Evening 28th July 2026 –Unders and Overs Pairs 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Glen Cocup / Patricia Garner
1st
Marilin Robins / Mick Robbins
2nd
Lynne O’Neill / Frances Brown
2nd
Helen Van Den Breok / Ian Vary
3rd
Martin Pearce / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Susan Ross
4th
Joy Block / Terry Sheedy
4th
Ming Ting / Susan Gibson
4th
Christina Brady / Alan Brown
5th
Michelle Hall / Mick King
Wednesday 29th July 2026 – Founders Teams Week 3 of 3 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
Team
Players
1st
Sheedy
Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Ting
Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild
3rd
Rasmussen
Patrick Rasmussen, Mary Rose Ramsden, Diane Holewa, Max Holewa
4th
Howard
Vicki Howard, Susan Ross, Janine Rodgers, Anette Howe
Wednesday 29th July 2026 – Final Founders Teams Red Points
Team
Players
1st
Sheedy
Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Ting
Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild
3rd
Morris
Sandra Morris, Jan Harris, Frances Brown, Alan Brown
Thursday Evening 30th July 2026 –- 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 31 July 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood/ Debra Goodchild
2nd
Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor
3rd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
4th
Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix
3rd
Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
Saturday 1st August 2026 –- Final GNOT Teams Gold Points
Team
Players
1st
Bugeia
Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Brown
Frances Brown, Alan Brown, Diane Morgan, Janet Hansen
3rd
Morris
Sandra Morris, Jan Harris, Frances Brown, Alan Brown
4th
Ting
Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild
Contributed by Joy Block
Photo credit: Edie weiss
Despite unpredictable weather, ten club members took part in the walks on offer on Sunday. They were able to choose between a challenging climb in the Homevale National Park and a more relaxed exploration of beach and bush areas between Bucasia and Shoal Point.
Ken Fihelly was the guide for the ascent of Sydney Heads, and progress was slowed initially by long and thick grass and then some slipping and sliding on the scree slope. However, once on top of the plateau, the views were stunning. From various positions Diamond Cliffs, The Bluff, Marling Spikes, Mt Britton and Mikes Peak were visible. Lichen gave the cliffs a green tinge, and the wattle was in full bloom with a rich colour. Enduring some drizzle at times, and undergrowth thick with saplings and vines, the walkers reached the highest point (921 m), and after lunch, made their way to the eastern cliffs for more great views.
A smaller number of bushwalkers led by Carole Weekes braved threatening skies to set off from the Eimeo Creek estuary to enjoy a relaxing amble along Bucasia Beach before following a sandy track through the bush to climb a staircase to a lookout. By now, there were blue skies but earlier a few drops of rain and a rainbow had appeared.
The rest of the morning involved morning tea on the deck overlooking the lake at Shoal Point Waters with a view across to some of mountains climbed regularly by the club members, and grazing cattle not often seen now in the area. This was followed by a return to the beach via Nautilus Park, but strong breezes soon forced participants to access the pathway through the parkland for the journey south back to the cars.
Walks on our calendar in the next couple of months include Mt Jukes, Mt Ossa, the Rail Trail and St Helen’s Creek. Phone for more information by contacting the membership secretary on 0429 363 929.
Contributed by Carole Weekes
Photo credit: Di Rutland
Christmas in July was celebrated last weekend with fifteen participants involved in a range of activities in perfect weather at Ball Bay.
Saturday morning commenced with nine walkers heading up the track to McBrides Lookout, and then the more adventurous majority followed Peter Bennett to drop down off track to the next hill and down onto the rocks. A scrubby walk with a steep descent was followed by boulder hopping which led eventually to the shoreline near Pauley’s Beach. Earlier, a long morning tea had been enjoyed on a rocky top where there was plenty of conversation but no view.
A less challenging option was chosen by a small group who, after attaining the summit at McBrides Lookout, stayed on track and followed Penny McMahon to Halliday Bay, where morning tea on a log did come with a view. It was then back to the campsite for a BBQ lunch organised by Coral Morgan who had also been responsible for arranging the overnight camp which attracted six participants. They remained to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, dining together and then taking breakfast after watching the sunrise from the beach, or in some cases following their meal with a stroll along the sand and over the rocks.
Future outings are planned to Red Cliff Island, the Pioneer Valley Rail Trail, Mt Ossa, Mt Jukes and St Helen’s Creek. For further information the number to phone is 0429 363 929.
Contributed by Carole Weekes
A very special award was presented to Diane and Max Holewa by President Frances. Diane and Max have reached Gold Life ABF ranking. Diane and Max are very experienced players and have been playing bridge for a long time together. Dian and Max taught Bridge at Moranbah back in the day. Great achievement guys!
Weekly Results
Monday 20th July 2026 – Week 14 of 26 NWP - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Eric Goodchild / David Ting
1st
Joy Block / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Nancy Martin / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris
3rd
Monica Darley / Janice Mansfield
3rd
Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell
Tuesday Evening 21st July 2026 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
2nd
Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
4th
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
Wednesday 22nd July 2026 – Founders Teams Week 2 of 3 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
Team
Players
1st
S. Morris
Sandra Morris, Jan Harris, Francis Brown, Alan Brown
2nd
Ting
Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild
3rd
Sheedy
Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood
4th
Rasmussen
Patrick Rasmussen, Mary Rose Ramsden, Diane Holewa, Max Holewa
Thursday Evening 23rd July 2026 –- 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Geoff Taylor / Anne Lutz
Friday 24 July 2026 –- 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
1st
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Geoffrey Patterson / Susan Wright
2nd
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Lorna Shuttlewood/ Debra Goodchild
3rd
Diane Cox / Christine Nice
4th
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
Saturday 25th July 2026 –- 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
1st
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Andrew Canavan
3rd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
3rd
Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
4th
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
4th
Julie O’Neill / Gwen Liddell
Sunday 26th July 2026 –- Noice and Mentors -6 Table One Winer Green Points
1st
Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Jennifer Camerson / Martin Pearce
3rd
Lynne O’Neill / Susan Gibson
4th
Debra Goodchild / Annette Howe
Diane and Max – ABF -Gold Life. Photo supplied
Contributed by Joy Block
A very successful Eungella King & Queen of the Mountain outing for the Hayles family – Oscar (4th Junior male), Isabelle (3rd Junior female) , Emily (2nd Open female), Lissy and Stephen Hayles.
Congratulations to the runners and cyclists who took part in the annual Historical King and Queen of the Mountain last weekend.
Perfectly cool conditions provided an ideal setting for quality racing, with nearly 100 athletes making their way from the small township of Netherdale to the beautiful Eungella Chalet, with spectacular scenic vistas along the route.
The event would not be where it is today without the valuable support of its loyal sponsors: Eungella Chalet’s Tess and team; M-Test’s Merv and Wendy Shields; Podiatry Mackay’s Donald Orr; Veronica Pettifer, who sponsors The Laura Pettifer Inspirational Trophy; Torque Tyres & Trailers; and Cloudbreak Lowline Eungella Beef’s Kel and Mandy.
Several volunteers from Mackay Cycle Club and Mackay Road Runners are also to be congratulated for their involvement in staging this magnificent event and helping make the annual race a success.
Torque Tyres & Trailers Cycle King & Queen of the Mountain:-
Naomi Ballard - 1st Female
Max Teague - 1st Male
M-Test Open King & Queen of the Mountain:-
1st Kate Gibbs; 2nd Emily Hayles; 3rd Jose Short; 4th Bec Malcolm
1st Paul Mackenzie; 2nd Ryan Murray; 3rd Samuel Parrish; 4th Liam Mumford
Podiatry Mackay/Lauren Pettifer Inspirational Junior King & Queen of the Mountain:-
Female - 1st Lily Leven; 2nd Isla Gibbs; 3rd Isabelle Hayles; 4th Sienna Gibbs
Male - 1st Tyler Lewandowski; 2nd Fletcher Hegerty; 3rd Max Miles; 4th Oscar Hayles
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Welcome back everyone to Season 3 and trust you all had a wonderful break. Congratulations to the Players who took part in the Queensland Veterans Championships in Brisbane on 14th-19th July. Mackay did very well winning a suitcase full of medals in every colour. Well done!
EVENING FIXTURES - Season 3
Division 1: Cheetahs (Goncalo Serra, Janice Kent, Allan Edwards) defeated Jaguars (Neil Brown, Syed Hossain) 9-2 with Neil coming home strong against Allan (4,9,-10,-9,4).
Leopards (Emma Widdup, Donna Abbott) snuck home against Lions (Graham Brake, Josh Brown, Will VanDaKaa) 6-5, Donna come back from 2 sets down to win in 5 sets against Graham (-6,-10,3,9,4). Pumas (Trent Day, Yilin Jiang, Duncan Treloar) won 6-5 over Tigers (Lily Boland, Anne Sheridan, Remy Zhan). Anne came back against Duncan to win (-6,-9,10,6,6).
Hawks (Robbie Richards, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson) defeated Magpies (Barry Patterson, Rod Mahumas) 6-5, Robbie and Rod had a close battle with Robbie winning in 5 sets (12,-7,-11,4,8).
Division 2: Cod (Delma Knight, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross) won 8-3 against Bass (Daniel Warfield, Tiffany Camilleri, Jeff Bennington), Daniel and Steve had a massive 4 sets, Daniel won (20,-10,9,5).
Squid (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Mahmout Ahmed) got home 8-3 over Cuttlefish (Ian McKay, Noreen Frederickson, David Symons), Peter beat Ian in close 5 sets (7,-7,7,-8,10).
Dolphins (Mark Stam, Mark Bowerman, Ricky Zhan) defeated Mackeral (Ollie Hamelink, Craig VanDeKaa) 9-2, Ricky come home strong against Ollie (-8,9,-9,10,5).
Trout (Tony Bowman, Liz Burton, Amanda Lui) overcome Grunter (Simon Hogan, Rachel Fiesta, Jason Lee) 6-5, Simon won close battle with Liz (-9,5,7,-5,8).
MORNING FIXTURES
Division 1: Celtic Smash (Donna Abbott, Pam Joyce, John McGee defeated Pirate Plunge (Andrea Nicholson, Steve Mathieson, Darryl Ross) 8-4, with no 5 set matches Pam won against Steve (-9,7,4,5).
Pharaoh Aces (Tony Bowman, Peter Goodson, Bryan Marshall) outlasted Roman Legion (George Camilleri, Judy Zahn, Noreen Frederickson) 9-3, Bryan beat Judy in close 5 sets (-7,4,-6,6,6).
Spartan Serve (Delma Knight, Ross DeBoer, Kevin Abbott) tied 6-6 with Zulu Spears (Branko Vucurovic, Doug Dungavell, Veronica Shepherd), Branko outlasted Ross (-8,-7,8,9,4)
Division 2: Buffalo Herd (Sally Muir, Coral Morgan, Kim Daffy) defeated Bear Claws (Helen Ware, Pam Kuene, Louise Gould) 8-4, Kim won in close 5 sets against Pam (-7,-7,8,7,9).
Dolphin Divers (Frank Caruana, John Hamelink) got home 6-3 over Cheetah Race (Ken Best, Josie Davis), Frank got the better of Ken (-7,6,-7,6,10).
Division 3: Amazon Guards (David Muir, Allison Day, Glenda Brookes) won 9-3 against Aztec Warriors (Janelle Kuene, Thelma Caruana, Glenda Dutton), Thelma was to strong for Allison (8,-8,-8,8,7).
Gladiator Grip (Kim Challendar, Sharon Muller, Trish Zamparutti) defeated Mongol Power (Iris Grasso, Gerry Synnott, Myles Dutton) 8-4, Sharon got home in close battle with Iris (-8,-8,8,9,8).
Contributed with thanks to Andrea Payne
Photo source: North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club
Congratulations to North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club open water swimmers, who achieved outstanding results at last week's MSQ State Championships Ship to Shore Swim.
While medal presentations were delayed as most competitors travelled back to Mackay after the event, the well-earned medals have now been presented, recognising the swimmers' impressive performances.
There was plenty to celebrate at Mackay parkrun on 25th July, with a new age category record and several participant milestones highlighting another successful community event.
Lorna Allen set a new VW80–84 age category record, completing the free, timed 5km course in an impressive 41:11.
The event also recognised five milestone achievements. Greg Dawes celebrated his 250th parkrun finish, while Rowan Stratford and Michelle McCulloch each reached their 100th finish milestones. Clinton Mackie completed his 50th parkrun, and Tanya Tomerini celebrated her 25th finish.
A familiar face at Mackay parkrun, Greg Dawes’ milestone reflects not only his commitment as a participant but also his outstanding service as a volunteer. Since joining the event team in September 2022, he has served as Run Director on 32 occasions and has volunteered an impressive 125 times. Fittingly, Greg marked his 250th finish while volunteering as the 27:30 pacer, encouraging and supporting fellow participants throughout the course.
Held every Saturday from 7am at the Mackay Botanic Gardens on Lagoon Street, Mackay parkrun is a free, community-run 5km walk or run that welcomes people of all ages and abilities. Participation is free, although first-time participants are encouraged to register beforehand and bring a scannable parkrun barcode to receive an official time.
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox catches up with Mackay Surf Life Saving Club's Isabella Grant at Harbour Beach after the Year 9 student secured third place in Australia in the Champion Lifesaver event with the backing of a Local Sporting Champions grant.
The next generation of regional sporting legends is locked, loaded, and ready to take on the best in the business, with 59 young athletes from across the Dawson electorate securing crucial financial backing to support their dreams.
Under Round 4 of the Federal Government's Local Sporting Champions program, these dedicated competitors have each received grants of between $650 and $750 to assist with the skyrocketing costs of competing at elite levels.
Among this round's standout recipients is Mackay North State High School student Isabella Grant, a dedicated lifesaver from the Mackay Surf Life Saving Club who recently brought home a bronze medal from the Australian Surf Life Saving Championships on the Gold Coast.
Competing in the demanding Champion Lifesaver event, Isabella placed third in Australia, following her impressive second-place finish at the State Titles. A highlight of her national campaign was taking out first place in the beach sprint.
Isabella shared the national stage with fellow Mackay Surf Life Saving Club member Cadence McKinnon, who claimed second place in the same event, capping off a remarkable result for the local club.
Her father, Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports at Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, emphasised the impact this financial backing has on local families.
"For regional athletes, travelling interstate or down to the Gold Coast involves substantial costs for transport, equipment, and accommodation," Mr Grant said.
"Programs like the Local Sporting Champions scheme help lighten that financial burden so our athletes can focus entirely on performing at their best."
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox said he was incredibly proud to back local champions like Isabella, who prove that regional athletes can match it with the best in the country.
"Seeing Isabella deliver such outstanding results on the national stage shows the depth of talent we have right here in Mackay.” Mr Willcox said.
"Whether it is driving down to the Gold Coast or flying interstate, the cost of accommodation, fuel, registration, and uniforms is a massive hurdle. With current cost-of-living pressures hitting household budgets hard, mums and dads are doing it tough, so I am thrilled to deliver this well-deserved financial relief to keep our kids competing."
"Our community sporting clubs are the starting blocks where regional Queensland's champions are built," Mr Willcox said.
"These grants are about giving our hard-working local kids a fair go, ensuring that financial barriers do not stand in the way of a future podium finish or gold medal. I wish all of our Dawson champions the absolute best of luck – you have your whole community cheering you on."
Fishing enthusiasts, families and adventure seekers are set to descend on Cape Gloucester Resort next weekend as the highly anticipated STONKA Fishing Challenge returns from 6th–9th August for four days of epic fishing, entertainment and fundraising.
More than just a fishing competition, the STONKA Fishing Challenge has become one of the region's most popular community events, bringing together people of all ages to enjoy the best of the Whitsunday coast while supporting an important cause. Proceeds from the event help raise funds for Leukaemia House in Townsville, which provides accommodation and support for regional North Queensland families who must travel away from home for life-saving cancer treatment.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Cape Gloucester Resort at Hydeaway Bay, the event promises plenty of "old-school Aussie fun" both on and off the water.
Festivities begin on Thursday afternoon with competitor registrations, raffles, live music and a chance to catch up with fellow anglers over dinner and drinks. From Friday through to Sunday, the program is packed with live weigh-ins, fishing demonstrations, family-friendly activities, children's events, mud crab races and auctions, food vendors, live entertainment and major prize draws.
One of the highlights will be the Battle of the Bays tug-of-war on Saturday, followed by a spectacular fireworks display and live music into the evening. Sunday's grand finale will see competitors in the running to win two fully equipped Quintrex and Yamaha boat packages, along with a host of other prizes.
The competition itself caters for a wide range of anglers, with categories for reef fish, estuary species, pelagic fish, mud crabs and crayfish, along with spearfishing divisions for both senior and junior competitors. Junior anglers can compete for the Prince or Princess of the Cape title, while senior fishers will battle it out to become King or Queen of the Cape.
Adding even more excitement is the popular "Tag a Trout" challenge. A tagged coral trout has been released somewhere within the competition area, and the lucky registered competitor who catches it during the event will take home a $10,000 cash prize.
Whether you're chasing trophy fish, hoping to win a new boat, or simply looking for a fantastic family weekend by the water, the STONKA Fishing Challenge offers something for everyone.
Most importantly, every entry, raffle ticket and dollar raised helps support Leukaemia House Townsville in continuing its vital work for regional families facing some of life's toughest challenges.
Runners get ready for the start of Jo’s 61 steps in very cool but sunny conditions. Photo supplied
Local runners took on the Mackay Road Runners Jo's 61 Steps event on Sunday morning, tackling challenging 5km and 10km courses through the steep streets of Mt Pleasant.
Despite the event's name, organisers joked it had since been confirmed there were actually 70 steps, with good-natured blame placed on the absent club president for the earlier miscount.
The course wound through Annie Wood Avenue, Pollock and High streets, and Norris Road, starting from Gordon White Library.
Fresh from the Gold Coast Marathon, Alana Knezevic was the first runner across the finish line after opting for the 5km course as she prepares for the Sydney Marathon in five weeks' time.
Congratulations were also extended to local athletes who competed in the Airlie Running Festival, where ideal conditions greeted runners in the Whitsundays.
Sunday 26th July
Make this your must-do event next weekend, with all participants welcome—there's no need to be a member of the Mackay Road Runners or Mackay Cycling Club.
Events include the M-Test Open King & Queen of the Mountain (6.4km), the Podiatry Mackay/Laura Pettifer Inspirational Under 18 Junior King & Queen of the Mountain (3km), and the Torque Tyres & Trailers Cycle Race(6.4km).
All events begin at 7am, following a one-minute silence in memory of talented triathlete Laura Pettifer, who tragically passed away in 2008 following a downhill cycling training ride.
The course starts at Netherdale and finishes at the Eungella Chalet. Runners must register online by 6pm on Saturday 25th July, while cyclists should refer to the registration link for contact details.
Organisers look forward to welcoming participants to the challenging but rewarding annual event, with post-race celebrations at the Eungella Chalet, where breakfast will be available for purchase. A special thank you was also extended to Tess and the team for their hospitality.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
The all-day Novice X Imp Pairs Competition was played last Saturday with players attending from Townsville, Bowen and Airlie Beach, with 16 pairs competing. Outright winners were local partnership and lifelong friends Susan Ross and Vicki Howard. Susan and Vicki have known each other for over 40 years and began their Bridge life together six years ago. This was a popular win, which was celebrated by President Frances Brown, Convener Anne Lutz and all in attendance. Susan and Vicki are great contributors to the club and also bring laughter and joy along with their wonderful culinary skills. Congratulations Susan and Vicki, Well Done!
Weekly Results
Monday 13th July 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points NWP
N/S
E/W
1st
Ming Ting / David Ting
1st
Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen
2nd
Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes
2nd
Joy Hold / Rodney Miles
3rd
Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris
3rd
Karen Caldwell / Sue Mayer-Miller
Tuesday Evening 14th July 2026 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup
2nd
Mick King / John McGee
3rd
Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown
4th
Susan Gibson / Karen Caldwell
Wednesday 15th July 2026 – Founders Teams Week 1 of 3 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
Team
Players
1st
Sheedy
Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Poole
Kath Poole, Josie Crowley, Monica Darley, Barbara Taite
3rd
Rasmussen
Patrick Rasmussen, Mary Rose Ramsden, Diane Holewa, Max Holewa
4th
Ting
Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild
Thursday Evening 16th July 2026 –- 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd
Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris
3rd
Martin Pearce / Adrian Westcott
Friday 17th July 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Helen Van Den Breok / Christine Nice
1st
Richard Wix / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
John McGee / Mick King
3rd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
4th
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
4th
Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
Saturday 18th July 2026 – Novice X Imps Pairs 8 Tables 16 Pairs Red Points
1st
Vicki Howard / Susan Ross
2nd
Glen Cocup / Ian Vary
3rd
Rod Miles / Joy Hold
4th
Toni Barrel / Mary Overall
5th
Linda Priday / Jill Brabon
6th
Christine Fitzpatrick / Colleen Riddel
Saturday 18th July 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice
1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
2nd
Geoffrey Patterson / Patrick Rasmussen
3rd
Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Diane Morgan
4th
Barbara Tait / Patricia Garner
4th
Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
Contributed by Joy Block
Anne with Winners Vicki, Susan and President Frances. Photo supplied
Play On! Sports Vouchers are helping Mackay and Whitsunday children overcome cost barriers, get active and discover the benefits of sport, with the next round opening July 27th. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton visited Mackay Pony Club on Monday 20th July, to highlight the upcoming second round of the Queensland Government’s Play On vouchers, which provide financial support to help children aged five to 17 participate in sport and recreational activities.
The $200 vouchers can help families cover costs such as registration and membership fees, uniforms, equipment and personal sporting gear. According to Mr Dalton, more than 9,300 children across the Mackay and Whitsunday region have already benefited from the program, with the next round opening on Monday, 27th July.
The initiative aims to make sport more accessible for families facing rising costs, while encouraging children to step away from screens, get active, socialise and build friendships.
“It’s a really great opportunity,” Mr Dalton said, encouraging parents to get involved in the next round as soon as possible.
He said the program could help children access a wide range of activities, from pony club and golf to cadets and football.
“We want to be able to give every child as much support as possible – especially in sport - because we know how beneficial it can be,” he said.
Play On! Sports Vouchers have also made an impact across Queensland, with more than 293,800 children supported through the program in its first year. More than 3,750 sporting clubs across the state now accept the vouchers, with almost 2,500 also offering disability programs.
Soccer, rugby league and netball were the most popular sports among participating children, while 13,917 vouchers were provided to children and young people with a disability, representing a 33 per cent increase compared with the previous voucher program. Girls also accounted for 129,050 vouchers, which has seen an increase of 30 per cent.
For Mackay Pony Club Chief Instructor Tracey Camilleri, the vouchers can make a significant difference, particularly for families with more than one child involved in sport.
“Sometimes it can be the difference between kids participating or not,” she said.
Ms Camilleri said equestrian sport provides children with lessons in responsibility, as caring for a horse requires daily commitment and care.
“There’s a deeper level of responsibility when kids are looking after an animal, and from what we’ve seen – that connection to the horse – can be really great for them,” she said.
She said the benefits extended beyond competition, with children able to enjoy the outdoors, develop partnerships with their horses and find an outlet from the pressures of school and everyday life.
Ms Camilleri, who has been passionate about horse-riding since she was a young girl, said:
“Just being out in the fresh air, and dealing with an animal and getting a great response to learning how to build a partnership is something quite special.”
The vouchers can also help young riders progress further, allowing families to put funding towards coaching, equipment and competition opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach.
“Without these vouchers, some parents are sort of limited to how much they can do for their child in a sport, especially amongst the cost-of-living pressures,” Ms Camilleri said.
For families interested in taking advantage of the next round, Play On vouchers offer an opportunity to help children get involved, stay active and discover a sport they can enjoy and grow with.
Last Sunday saw six bushwalkers driving about 80 km north of Mackay to access the Cathu State Forest, and then to climb to the prominent feature known as Castle Rock. The leader of the group was Ken Fihelly, who spends half of each year participating in the Mackay Bushwalkers’ Club activities before escaping south to avoid the summer heat.
The walk started steadily, but soon large rocks and thick vegetation on a moderately steep slope made progress difficult. Once the ridge was reached the climb became less steep and the vegetation changed to open forest. Attractive cycads were plentiful, and the morning tea spot afforded great views looking westwards towards the top of the range.
On this walk, lunch is usually enjoyed on an impressive sloping slab close to the big ‘thumb’, and this tradition was continued, with great views across the valley being presented. The descent chosen offered some steep rocky terrain, but was easier than the alternative, and after emerging from the bush the hikers had a short easy walk back to the cars.
Phone 0429 363 929 for information about how to join the organisation, and upcoming walks which include Sydney Heads, Red Cliff Island and St Helen’s Creek.
Contributed with thanks by Carole Weekes
Photo source: Mackay Athletics Club
A small contingent of Mackay Athletics Club (MAC) athletes travelled to the CH Track & Field Carnival at Emerald Athletics Club over the weekend, enjoying a warm and sunny day of competition.
The team delivered a strong performance across the event, with several athletes achieving personal bests and record-breaking results.
Ruby claimed third place in the high jump, while Lily recorded three personal bests throughout the day. Matilda broke two carnival records and also achieved a personal best in the 800m.
Bronte had an outstanding carnival with five personal bests, finishing second in the high jump and third in the 800m. Amberley also added three personal bests to her results.
Cathryn and Kevin both impressed, each breaking four carnival records during their events.
Adding to the team’s contribution, Kym took charge in the discus cage as chief official while also managing to fit in a couple of throws of their own.
The MAC athletes enjoyed a successful day of competition, showcasing the dedication and talent within the club.
Photo source: North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club
Mackay Sinkers swimmers have returned with impressive results from the National Open Water Championships, claiming two gold medals and two bronze medals across the competition.
In the 1.5km event, Nigel Dalton claimed gold in the 60–64 age group with a time of 27:42.38, while Geoffrey Robinson also secured gold in the 85–89 age group, finishing in 49:36.28.
The club also celebrated success in the 3km event, with Daniel Stampa earning bronze in the 65–69 age group in 58:25.52, and Pierre Craven taking bronze in the 55–59 age group with a time of 51:27.11.
The club congratulated Nigel, Geoff, Dan and Pierre on their outstanding performances.
Back on home shores, members also enjoyed a Social Saturday swim, with a post-session warm-up featuring homemade turmeric pumpkin soup. The club thanked Annamaree and Alison F for preparing the soup, which was served after Jim's backboard set as the perfect winter recovery meal.
Christine Fitzpatrick pictured. Photo supplied
Christine Fitzpatrick began her Bridge journey only three years ago. Christine understands how daunting, although fun, learning and progressing in the Bridge World can be. Christine has impemented a day of play once a month for players with less than 5 master points. This day givesinexperienced players an opportunity to reinforce what they have learnt in lessons, exclusively at their own level. President Frances supported Christine’s idea and Robert Carless has kindly volunteered to assist. The first day of the program saw sixteen players attend with President Frances supporting in Christine’s absence.
Monday 6 July 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points NWP
N/S
E/W
1st
Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt
1st
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft
3rd
Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes
3rd
Joy Hold / Rodney Miles
Tuesday Evening 7 July 2026 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Mick King / John McGee
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
3rd
Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup
4th
Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Breok
Wednesday 08 July 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Frances Brown / Alan Brown
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
3rd
Sandy Patterson / Geoff Patterson
4th
Sandra Morris / Jan Harris
4th
David Ting / Ming Ting
Thursday Evening 09 July 2026 –- 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Jan Harris / Anne Lutz
2nd
Mick King / Griffin Bancroft
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
4th
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
Friday 10 July 2026 –- 7 Table Rover Switch One Winner Green Points
1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
3rd
Mick King / Joy Block
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
5th
Jewel Schmidt / Annete Howe
6th
Pamela Finger / Janelle Conroy
Saturday 11 July 2026 –- 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice
1st
Mick King / John McGee
2nd
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd
Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris
3rd
Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd
Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner
4th
Sandy Patterson / Joy Hold
4th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
5th
Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris
5th
Sue Ross / Sue Mayer-Miller
Sunday 12 July 2026 – Novice (Beginners) under 5 points. 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Jennifer Cameron / Glen Cocup
2nd
Colleen Riddel / Pam Cassidy
3rd
John Hunt / Patricia Wong
4th
Mary-Jane Marsh / Louise Renton
Contributed by Joy Block
Approximately 30 runners vying for the coveted Garmin Forerunner 265S sports watch.
Mackay Road Runners thanked TriActiV8's Nikki Giles for once again sponsoring the Bonson's Scrub Road 6km and 12km runs at The Leap.
Runners were treated to spectacular scenic vistas, although low cloud and fog created an eerie start to the challenging event. Around 30 competitors took part, all hoping to win a Garmin Forerunner 265S sports watch donated by Nikki.
To be eligible for the prize, participants had to nominate their finishing time before the event and run without using their timing device, or with their watch screen taped over so it wasn't visible.
Natasha Joynson was the delighted winner, estimating her finishing time to within just four seconds. Her husband, Craig Joynson, finished a close second in the competition, missing his predicted time by six seconds, while Lily Leven claimed a very respectable third place, finishing 16 seconds from her nominated time.
The club's next event, Jo's 61 Steps Social 5km and 10km, will be held on Sunday, commencing at 7am from the Gordon White Library car park. Members and non-members are welcome, with a $2 race-day fee applying to all competitors. Participants are asked to arrive by 6.50am for the course briefing and club notices.
Jim Ford's weekly track training sessions continue every Wednesday from 5.30pm at the ARC (Aquatic & Recreational Complex). The free one-hour sessions cater for all ages and abilities, with a $5 facility entry fee payable at the pool kiosk.
The M-Test Open King and Queen of the Mountain 6.4km and the Podiatry Mackay/Laura Pettifer Inspirational Junior King and Queen of the Mountain 3km foot races will be held on Sunday, July 26, from Netherdale to the Eungella Chalet, starting at 7am. Competitors must register online via the Mackay Road Runners website, with further information to be released closer to the event.
The Torque Tyres and Trailers King and Queen of the Mountain 6.4km cycle race will also be held in conjunction with the event. Registration details are available through the Mackay Cycle Club by contacting Kiah on 0429 820 020.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Mackay and District BMX Club - Representing Australia in the Green and Gold Race Jerseys. (Absent – Tristyn Kronk, Jaxon Philp and Jack Hancroft.) Photos supplied
Twenty-three riders from the Mackay and District BMX Club are preparing to take on the world's best after qualifying to represent Australia at the 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships in Brisbane.
The prestigious event will be held at the Sleeman BMX Track from July 17 to 25, bringing together the fastest BMX racers from around the globe as they compete for the coveted rainbow jersey.
For the Mackay club, having 23 riders selected to wear the green and gold on home soil is a remarkable achievement and reflects the dedication, determination and countless hours of training invested throughout the season.
A spokesperson for Mackay and District BMX Club said the selection was a proud moment for the entire club.
"To have 23 Mackay and District BMX Club riders earn the opportunity to wear the green and gold on home soil is an outstanding achievement and a testament to their hard work, dedication and commitment through the season," the spokesperson said.
"We couldn't be prouder of our Australian representatives and wish each rider the very best as they take on the world's best in Brisbane. Congratulations to our incredible team – your Mackay BMX family is behind you every step of the way."
Supporters can follow the action live throughout the championships via SBS On Demand, as the Mackay community rallies behind its local riders on the world stage.
23 Mackay Riders out of the following will represent Australia:
Photo credit: Julie Ward
Members of the club were active again last weekend after the main event had been cancelled the previous Sunday because of rainy weather.
Seven keen members walked in the vicinity of the Homevale National Park, climbing the features known to the club as the Spikelets. Three of the ladies camped the night before at the old Mt Britton township site, ready for an early start on Sunday.
The hike was led by Kevin Smith, and a highlight early in the day was the discovery of an inviting cave on Spikelet One. A brief visit to Spikelet Two afforded great views of Marling Spikes, Sydney Heads and Diamond Cliffs making up part of the stunning scenery available to visitors to the area.
Spikelet Three remained unconquerable on this occasion as no easy way up was discovered.
A cool breeze was appreciated on top of the peaks as the middle of the day was quite hot. Thick grass and plentiful ant nests were negotiated to reach the ridges which luckily were reasonably open.
Next weekend Mt Dalrymple is on the calendar for club members, weather permitting.
For more information about becoming part of the club, please phone 0429 363 929 or visit the website at https://mackaybwcq.org.au to learn how to conduct an online induction.
Contributed by Carole Weekes
Over twenty runners enjoyed the cool but blustery conditions at the Mackay Harbour Marina 5k & 10km Casu Jacks social event.
Well done to the more than 20 runners who tackled the cool, blustery conditions at the Casu Jacks Social 5km and 10km run from the Mackay Harbour Marina. There were some excellent results, with junior runners producing notable performances as they comfortably completed their respective events.
Congratulations also to the Gold Coast Running Festival competitors, with amazing outcomes for many local runners, including Alana Knezevic, who clocked 3hrs 15min in the 42.2km marathon.
Legendary ultra runner Paul MacKenzie was unstoppable across the Gold Coast weekend, completing the full marathon (2hrs 57mins), the 21.1km half marathon (1hr 24mins), the 10km (39mins) and the 5km (19mins 17secs) at the world-renowned running festival. Paul earned a well-deserved third place in his age category for the double marathon achievement.
Justin Rule's first marathon attempt, supported by his family, Belinda, Oliver and Toby, was outstanding as he crossed the finish line in a spectacular 3hrs 10mins.
With many other personal goals achieved, congratulations go to everyone for their efforts, including but not limited to Emily Green, Shane Donnollan, Aidan Donollan, Ashley Miles, Clinton Mackie, Jenny Harmer, Glen Harmer, Marilyn Bennett, Brijesh Kumar, Paul Formosa, Kay Nyenug and Peter Ford in the 42.2km; Adam Knezevic in the 21.1km; Fran March, Bianca Miles, Max Miles, Toby Rule and Oliver Rule in the 10km; and Toby Rule in the 5km.
Next Sunday's TriActiV8-sponsored Mackay Road Runners Bonson's Scrub/Ian Reddacliffe Roads 6km and 12km event will commence at 7am at the junction of Bonson's Scrub Road and the Bruce Highway, The Leap.
Due to parking restrictions at the race start, runners are requested to carpool as much as possible by meeting at Coningsby State School. All members are invited to participate in this challenging and enjoyable annual event for a $2 race day fee, which accrues club handicap points. Non-members are always welcome for a $10 race day fee for those over 18 years and $5 for those under 18 years. Please arrive at the start precinct by 6.45am for the course briefing and club notices.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Participants enjoying Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim. Photo supplied
POWERED by returning naming rights sponsor Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank, registrations for the 2026 Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim are now open.
Hosted by Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club, the 6 September event has five different runs and two ocean swims options to choose from, with all proceeds going to support the Club.
Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club President Brady Leonard said that the event is the Club’s principal annual fundraiser, combining “fun, fitness and fantastic views” into one event to support the Club’s vital work in our community.
“As a 100% volunteer organisation, we are so grateful for all of interest and participation so far in our popular Cruisin’ the Coast Run & Ocean Swim,” Mr Leonard said.
“It’s also fantastic to have Community Bank Sarina on board as our naming rights sponsor – and their continued support plays a huge part in helping us bring this event to life.
“While raising much-needed funds for us, it also allows our community to experience beautiful Sarina Beach.”
Community Bank Sarina’s Board Chair Karen May said this event is a “great way for families and friends to reconnect”.
“If you choose to either walk, run or swim, we want everyone to enjoy the day at their own pace and be reminded of why we love our community so much,” Ms May said.
The event features something for everyone, with a 5km community walk, 1km, 5km, 10km or half marathon runs, plus a 1km or 2km ocean swim – offering a variety of distances to suit all ages and fitness levels.
Alongside naming rights sponsor Community Bank Sarina, the 2026 major sponsors include BMA BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal and North Queensland Bulk Ports, with minor sponsors Mackay Whitsunday Life and Fridgelec and additional support from valued Club friends Mackay Regional Council and Rebel Nation.
Register before 14 July to receive an early bird ticket and free event shirt at https://sarinacruisinthecoast.com.au/tickets.
Photo source: Mackay basketball (Facebook)
Mackay Basketball’s Holiday Hoops Camp has recorded its biggest turnout yet, with more than 140 young participants taking part across two days of basketball during the school holidays.
The program, the second Holiday Hoops Camp held this year, proved a standout success and set a new participation record for the organisation’s holiday camp series.
It was said that across the two days, the courts were filled with activity, with plenty of smiles, new friendships forming and a strong sense of enjoyment evident among participants.
Mackay Basketball also acknowledged its coaching group, who volunteered their time to run the sessions. Coaches were recognised for their efforts in teaching, encouraging and supporting players throughout the camp, helping deliver a positive experience for all involved.
The Holiday Hoops Camp continues to be a popular feature on Mackay Basketball’s calendar, providing young players with the opportunity to spend time on court during the school holidays in a structured and supportive environment.
This latest edition has now set a new benchmark for participation, with organisers describing the two-day event as an “unbelievable couple of days of hoops.”
With record numbers achieved, the program has again highlighted the strong level of engagement with basketball across the Mackay region, as local families continue to support opportunities for young players to get involved in the sport.
The camp concluded after two full days of activity, marking another successful instalment of Mackay Basketball’s ongoing holiday program.
Photo source: North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club
Mackay's Sinkers have continued to make waves in the pool, celebrating strong performances at both the Australian Pool Rescue Championships in Perth and the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler.
Peter T delivered an outstanding result at the Australian Pool Rescue Championships, returning to competition for the first time in 12 months to finish second overall in the 45–60 years age group.
Competing across the three-day championships, Peter claimed an impressive medal tally of one gold and four silver medals, marking a successful return after an extended break from competition.
Fellow Sinkers Nigel Dalton and Dan Stampa also impressed at the Brisbane Southside Meet at Chandler, producing a series of strong swims against a competitive field of 194 registered athletes.
Nigel finished third in his age group, while Dan also secured third place in his respective age group.
The pair briefly celebrated holding the Small Club Trophy before competition rules required the award to be presented to another club, with a minimum of three swimmers needed to qualify. With only two Sinkers competing, the trophy was officially handed to the Belgravia team during the Face-to-Face branch meeting.
Both Nigel and Dan enjoyed some extra success away from the pool, each winning prizes in the event's multi-draw.
The club congratulated all swimmers on their performances and thanked Brisbane Southside Meet organisers for hosting another successful competition.
Seven days of Bridge were played at the Mackay Bridge Club last week. This included two evenings, Saturday, and Sunday for Novice (beginners) and Mentors. Mackay Bridge club ensures that there are plenty of opportunities for working people who want to learn bridge to participate after their bridge lessons.
Four members played in the Townsville Congress, with Terry Sheedy and Janelle Conroy winning the A Section pairs. Diane and Max Holewa joined Terry and Janelle to win the Teams event.
Members of the club are travelling to Bowen to participate in the Bowen Pairs Congress this weekend. Bridge is a social game, which encourages friendship, partnerships, fun and sometimes travel. Don’t wait until you retire, join next year when lessons begin. For more information, watch this space or contact the club.
Weekly Results
Monday 22 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st Nancy Martin / Susan Ross
2nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris
2nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
3rd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
3rd Janice Mansfield / Debra Goodchild
4th Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft
4th Sue Mayer-Miller / Karen Caldwell
Tuesday Evening 23 June 2026 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
2nd Frances Brown / Rodney Miles
3rd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger
4th Helen Van Den Breok / Terry Sheedy
Wednesday 24 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st Joy Block / Diane Stokes
1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt
3rd Terry Sheedy / Mick King
4th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
4th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz
Thursday 25 June 2026 –- 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Mick King / Griffin Bancroft
2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan
4th Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
Friday 26 June 2026 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st Geoff Cowan / Mick King
1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait
2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
3rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
Saturday 27 June 2026 –- 13 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S
E/W
1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd Joy Hold / Sandy Patterson
2nd Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd Nancy Wix / Richard Wix
3rd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner
4th Gwen Liddell / Julie O’Neill
4th Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell
5th Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
5th Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok
Sunday 28 June 2026 – 7 Tables Green Points Novices and Mentors
N/S
E/W
1st David Ting / Rodney Miles
1st Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor
2nd Susan Ross / Joy Hold
2nd Colleen Riddel / Sue Mayer-Miller
3rd Christine Fitzpatrick / Griffin Bancroft
3rd Gillian McCallum / Ming Ting
4th Neila Quintero / Martin Pearce
4th Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin
Contributed by Joy Block
Damp unforgiving rains did not take the fun out of a social Mackay Road Runners event from Eimeo Surf Club.
More than 20 runners turned out in challenging conditions at Eimeo Surf Club on the weekend, including the dedicated Mackay Tri Club members who, after completing their run, took to the ocean for a "little" 2km swim.
The 5km and 10km courses featured plenty of challenging hills through the Blacks Beach, Dolphin Heads and Eimeo suburbs, providing an ideal hit-out for athletes preparing to taper ahead of the upcoming Gold Coast Running Festival and various Ironman events.
Those who took shelter from the rain beneath the Surf Life Saving Control Watch Tower also enjoyed learning a few tricks of the trade about the delicate nature of the tummy, including checking that the milk is lactose free.
A big thank you goes to Andrew Short for once again setting up a spectacular course. A legendary stalwart of the club, his ongoing contribution continues to be greatly appreciated.
With a significant number of athletes away competing at out-of-town events, including the Gold Coast, Mackay Road Runners will instead host a social 5km and 10km run from Casu Jacks at Mackay Harbour this Sunday, starting at 7am.
Participants are encouraged to bring along card or cash for breakfast, a cuppa and a chat, while celebrating the first run of the new financial year following 30 June 2026.
All members and non-members are welcome to attend for a $2 race day fee. Please arrive by 6.50am for registration, the course briefing and club notices.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Tri-ActiV8 has earned statewide recognition after taking home two major honours at the 2026 AusTriathlon Queensland State Awards on Saturday 27th June, marking the first time the organisation has been recognised for its triathlon efforts within the Mackay and Isaac region.
The local coaching organisation claimed the prestigious Coach of the Year award for Director and Head Coach Nikki Giles, while the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon was recognised as Club Event of the Year.
Nikki received the Coach of the Year honour in recognition of her outstanding commitment to building a positive, inclusive training culture where athletes at every level are empowered to develop skills and strive for personal bests.
The award is open to accredited AusTriathlon coaches at affiliated clubs and squads who actively coach across all three disciplines: swim, cycle and run, and is determined through nominations from members, reflecting the impact coaches have on the athletes they support.
The region's only female Performance Accredited AusTriathlon coach, Nikki has become a driving force behind the continued growth of triathlon across the Mackay and Isaac regions. Her passion for the sport extends beyond coaching, with a strong focus on creating a welcoming environment where athletes of all abilities feel encouraged to challenge themselves and achieve their goals.
Under her leadership, Tri-ActiV8 has grown into a welcoming hub for triathletes of all abilities across the Mackay and Isaac regions.
“This recognition means the world to me. Triathlon has given so much to our community in the Mackay and Isaac regions, and every single day I pour my heart into giving that back.
“Knowing that my athletes and our community felt moved to nominate me for this – that’s the real award.”
“I am incredibly proud to represent this region and to be part of growing and strengthening the sport of triathlon here.
“This belongs to every athlete who has trusted me with their journey,” Nikki said.
Tri-ActiV8's celebrations continued with the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon receiving the Club Event of the Year award.
The organisation has proudly event-managed the triathlon in partnership with Isaac Regional Council for the past three years, with the event becoming a signature fixture on the regional triathlon calendar.
Held each January, the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon brings the community together while providing athletes across the Isaac region with a high-quality, professionally managed race experience. Tri-ActiV8 said its partnership with Isaac Regional Council has been central to the event's success and continued growth.
The organisation is proud of what the event represents, not only as a competition but as a celebration of community spirit and the power of sport to bring people together.
Tri-ActiV8 said the two awards reflect the dedication, hard work and passion of everyone involved with the organisation, from its coaches and volunteers to its athletes and the communities it is privileged to serve, while also recognising the continued strength and growth of triathlon across the Mackay and Isaac regions.
Tri-ActiV8 Director and Head Coach Nikki Giles was named Coach of the Year at the 2026 AusTriathlon Queensland State Awards. Photo supplied
Mackay State High School’s Takiyah was named Girls Player of the Carnival and selected in the Queensland Merit Team at the QLD State Schools Cup Rugby League Carnival, alongside her sister Veanna who also earned merit selection. Photo source: Mackay SHS (Facebook)
Mackay State High School student Takiyah has capped off an outstanding Queensland State Schools Cup Rugby League Carnival, earning the prestigious Girls Player of the Carnival award and selection in the Queensland Merit Team.
The Year 12 student was recognised for her performances throughout the carnival, with the honours reflecting her dedication and work ethic on the field.
Takiyah has been involved in rugby league for the past eight years and has represented Mackay State High School, Capricornia, the Mackay Cutters and the Australian Wanderers during her playing career.
Now in her senior year, she has been a member of the school's Rugby League Academy since Year 7.
The carnival also proved to be a memorable occasion for the family, with Takiyah playing alongside her Year 11 sister, Veanna. Both sisters were selected in the Queensland Merit Team following their performances throughout the tournament.
Mackay State High School congratulated Takiyah and Veanna on their achievements and thanked staff and Queensland Secondary Schools Cup organisers for delivering another successful carnival, with students enjoying the opportunity to represent their school on the state stage.
Photo source: Rocky Trail Entertainment
Finch Hatton MTB Trails welcomed riders from across Australia last weekend as the Fox Superflow presented by Rocky Trail Entertainment’s returned for two days of gravity enduro racing.
Held on Saturday, June 27 and Sunday, June 28, the event showcased Rocky Trail's popular Fox Superflow format, giving riders aged 10 years and over the flexibility to complete multiple live-timed race runs across the weekend at their own pace. With relaxed transitions, no start orders and a festival-style event village, the race attracted ambitious riders, seasoned competitors and families alike, creating a vibrant atmosphere on and off the trails.
Away from the racing, the weekend continued with an MTB Movie Night hosted at the Pioneer Valley Show Society Hall. Held after the Pump N Flow event, families and local residents gathered under the stars to enjoy an outdoor film while raising funds for Pioneer Futures through entry donations and food sales, including a sausage sizzle, popcorn and soft drinks.
Supported by local sponsors, including Robyn Agius Area Specialist and Off Camber Automotive, the movie night provided the perfect community finale to a weekend that celebrated mountain biking, family fun and the growing appeal of the Finch Hatton MTB Trails.
Photo source: Mackay Cutters (Facebook)
Mackay Cutters have confirmed Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months, strengthening the club’s youth education, wellbeing and leadership programs across the Mackay and Isaac regions.
The partnership was launched last Friday at Moranbah State School, where Cutters Wellbeing and Education Manager Jack, alongside club staff and Stanmore leadership representatives, delivered a Cutters Care session to Year 5/6 Sports Boost students.
“We’re proud to welcome Stanmore Resources as the official Cutters Care Delivery Partner for the next 12 months,” the club said.
The program will continue to focus on helping young people build confidence, resilience and positive connections through sport and education-based initiatives.
“Together, we'll continue delivering education, wellbeing and leadership programs to young people throughout the Mackay and Isaac regions, helping them build confidence, resilience and positive connections.”
The Cutters said they look forward to continuing meaningful community impact and providing opportunities for young people to learn, grow and thrive through the partnership.
Photo source: Mackay Softball Association Incorporated (Facebook)
The Mackay Softball Association has reflected on another competitive CQ Darby against Softball Rockhampton, with strong performances and continued rivalry highlighted across the weekend.
Rockhampton arrived ready to play, producing a dominant display at the plate and taking victory in both games of the series.
“The Rocky boys came ready to play, swinging the bats well and taking the win in both games,” the association said.
Despite the results, Mackay praised the standard of competition and the spirit in which the games were played, with both clubs continuing to build on a long-standing regional rivalry.
The association also acknowledged the contribution of Murray, thanking him “for all his help, guidance and support in coaching both teams throughout the weekend”.
Off the field, community and hospitality remained a key feature of the event, with Jodie recognised for preparing meals for the visiting side.
“Thank you to our own Jodie for feeding our the Rocky boys delicious pulled pork rolls,” the association said.
The CQ Darby continues to be a highlight on the calendar for both regions, with Mackay Softball noting the blend of rivalry and mateship that defines the fixture.
“These weekends are always a highlight on the calendar, and we love the rivalry, mateship and quality softball that comes with them.”
The team is now looking ahead to the next meeting between the two clubs, with both sides eager for another competitive weekend of softball in Central Queensland.
Nancy and Janine. Photo supplied
Twenty-six Pairs competed in the Qualifying Championship Club Pairs on Saturday morning, with the top fourteen pairs then progressing to the Club Championship Pairs after lunch.
Congratulations to Janine Rodgers and Nancy Martin who were the outright winners with 61.86 percent. Although Janine and Nancy are both very experienced players, however, this current partnership is a relatively new one.
Well done ladies! Many hands of cards were played on the day and lots of delicious food eaten. Mackay Bridge Club is a very social and friendly club.
Weekly Results
Monday 15th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris
3rd Monica Darley / Joy Block
3rd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
Evening 15th June 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
2nd Janelle Conroy / Andrew Canavan
2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
Wednesday 17th June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
1st Terry Sheedy / Mick King
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
2nd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson
3rd Faith Hutchinson / John Hunt
3rd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
Thursday 18th June 2026 – Show Day - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S
E/W
1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown
1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
2nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
3rd Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd Mick King / Griffin Bancroft
Friday 19th June 2026 –- Week 12 of 26 NWP - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor
2nd Geoff Cowan / Mick King
2nd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
3rd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait
3rd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
Saturday 20th June 2026 – Club Championship Qualifying - 13 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S
E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
1st Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
2nd Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
3rd Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin
3rd Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok
4th Susan Ross / Geoff Cowan
4th Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
5th Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
5th Ann Whitmore / Joy Block
Saturday 20th June 2026 Club Championship Pairs Final – 7 Table Howe
1st Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin
2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
3rd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
4th Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
Contributed by Joy Block
More than 100 riders will contest Queensland state titles across three days of time trial, road race and criterium action from 3–5 July, as the Mackay region hosts the 2026 Queensland Road State Championships.
Presented by AusCycling Queensland and delivered locally by Mackay Cycling Club volunteers, the championships will bring together Queensland’s leading junior, elite, masters and para-cyclists to compete across Mirani, Sarina and Mackay Kart Club at Palmyra.
A total of 109 riders are currently entered across the weekend, spanning categories from under-9 through to elite, masters and para divisions. Entries remain open until 11:59pm on Monday 29 June, with final start lists and event timings to be confirmed after closure.
Riders will contest three disciplines: an individual time trial in Mirani, road races in Sarina and at the Mackay Kart Club, and a criterium held at the Mackay Kart Club circuit, which will also provide the most accessible viewing experience for spectators.
The action begins Friday 3 July with the individual time trial at Mirani, with sign-on from 8.00am and the first rider off at 9.01am. Riders will compete against the clock over distances ranging from 4km for U9 and U11 categories through to 32km for U23 and elite competitors.
On Saturday 4 July, road racing continues in Sarina for senior, junior and masters categories from 7.30am, with events expected to conclude in the afternoon. U9, U11 and U13 riders will also compete at the Mackay Kart Club from 7.00am.
The weekend concludes Sunday 5 July with the criterium at Mackay Kart Club, 21 Grants Road, Palmyra. Racing begins at 7.30am, with the elite and U19 men’s race scheduled for 2.50pm.
The championship field includes a strong mix of emerging talent and experienced competitors.
Former professional road cyclist and Beijing 2008 Olympian Glen Chadwick will line up in the field, bringing international experience to the event.
Rockhampton’s George Tucker, a national track title holder and Queensland representative, will compete in the Under 19 category as one of Central Queensland’s most promising riders.
Mackay’s Max Teague enters the U15 Men’s division following a standout season, having claimed the 2026 Australian U15 Men’s XCC title, gold in the Junior Team Relay at the Australian Mountain Bike Championships, and bronze in the 2025 Queensland U15 road race.
Local representation also includes Elite riders Zac Schwarzrock and Brittany Roberts, Mackay junior Matthew Schatkowski, Cairns U19 rider Chloe Buckley, Townsville’s Nicholas Dixon-Grover, and a strong contingent of developing cyclists from across regional Queensland.
Mackay Cycling Club committee member Kyle Marwood said the event was a proud moment for the local cycling community.
“Hosting a Queensland state championship is a huge opportunity for Mackay and the wider region. We have riders coming from across the state, but it is also a chance for our local juniors to race on home ground and see what a championship-level event looks like.
“To have riders such as Glen Chadwick, George Tucker and Max Teague on the start list makes it a special weekend, but the event is just as much about the volunteers, families, clubs and local businesses who have helped make it happen.”
Spectators are welcome across all three days, with the Mackay Kart Club offering the best viewing opportunities on Saturday’s junior races and throughout Sunday’s criterium program.
Motorists in Mirani and Sarina are advised to allow extra travel time, follow signage and comply with traffic controller directions, with full traffic management details to be released ahead of race weekend.
The event is expected to draw riders, support crews, officials and families from across Queensland, delivering a major boost for regional sport while showcasing Mackay as a key cycling destination.
Photo source: Mackay Basketball
Mackay Basketball has celebrated its U16 representative players and teams following the conclusion of the season, recognising individual achievements across the Meteors, Meteorettes, Comets, Comettes, Stars and Starettes squads.
Award recipients included:
Meteors
MVP: Jimmy Turner
Best Defensive: Winston Sutton
Coach's Award: Finley Philbin
Meteorettes
MVP: Harvey Geeves
Best Defensive: Pyiper Redgard
Coach's Award: Indy Jorgensen
Comets
MVP: Hudson Currie
Best Defensive: Tom Balingall
Coach's Award: Eddie Hardwick
Comettes
MVP: Magenta Newland
Best Defensive: Summer Jo Young
Coach's Award: Sibella Mayer
Stars
MVP: Beau Slaughter
Best Defensive: Barry Matchett
Coach's Award: Tyler O'Neill
Starettes
MVP: Tanatsa Kuveya
Best Defensive: Abi Hobbs
Coach's Award: Emma Russell
Congratulations were also extended to the U16 athletes selected to represent Queensland North at the upcoming National Championships: Winston Sutton, Jimmy Turner, Hayden Bone, Finley Philbin, Indy Jorgensen, Pyiper Redgard, Harvey Geeves, MarliReid, Mercy Osborne, Ellie Marsh and Sammy Simpson.
A special thank you was also given to NBL1 player Khobie De Haan for presenting the awards.
Ian Brookes. Photo credit: Julie Ward
Recently, members of the Mackay Bushwalkers' Club were offered two very different walks on successive Sundays, both under the guidance of Ken Fihelly in the broad Cape Hillsborough area.
Members were taken to places not usually frequented by visitors to the National Park, who often prefer to follow the popular walking tracks to the well-known lookouts. The first of these bushwalks traversed the western section of the park from Smalley's Beach nearly up to the plateau, passing under cliffs to a cave with a large overhang.
Some steep rock scrambling was undertaken, but was rewarded with great views including that of the Native Pink Hibiscus patch, mostly still only buds.
The journey back to the cars revealed gullies, dry creek beds and sections of rain forest. Towering palms, beautiful basket ferns, grass trees and lush grasslands, as well as a close encounter with a Ulysses butterfly were highlights of the day.
A week later, Paradise Falls was reached after a journey offering large boulders, impressive rain forest and rugged cliffs, as well as thousands of Crow and Blue Tiger butterflies.
Both walks showcased spectacular scenery to be admired whilst making the most of the outdoors in very sunny weather.
The club's full program for the next month includes a variety of walks ranging from Mt Dalrymple to Homevale and Cathu, with some easier options available on the days of more challenging outings.
For further information about the range of walks on offer to members over the next month and for information on how to become involved, phone 0429363929.
Frances and Jan. Photo supplied
BRIDGE
The club is pleased to announce that Jan Harris, is the newly appointed Country Director. In the context of the card game bridge, a Country Director is an accredited official qualified to oversee and manage small regional or "country" bridge congresses. Jan received her Queensland Bridge Association Director’s Certificate from President Frances Brown. Bridge cannot be played without directors and is commendable that Club members like Jan step forward to fill these roles. Thank you, Jan!
Frances and Jan
Weekly Results
Monday 8 June 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Monica Darley / Joy Block
2nd Vicki Howard / Susan Ross
3rd Jewel Schmidt / Janine Rodgers
4th Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris
Evening 9 June 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger
1st Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup
2nd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
3rd Ian Stephenson /Ann Whitmore
3rd Errol Morris / Mick Robins
Wednesday 10 June 2026 – NWP Week 11 of 26 - 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
1st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson
3rd Debbie Ludkin / Mick King
3rd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
4th Monica Darley / Helen Goldston
4th Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
5th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
5th Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell
Thursday Evening 11 June 2026 – 5 Table One Winner – Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Adrian Westcott
2nd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan
3rd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
4th Simon Barnes / Martin Pearce
Friday 12 June 2026 –- 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger
2nd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
3rd Diane Cox / Christine Nice
3rd Mick King / Geoff Cowan
4th Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
4th Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
5th Ming Ting / David Ting
5th Gillian McCallum / Rodney Miles
Saturday 13 June 2026 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st Faye Wright / Janine Rodgers
1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
2nd Joy Robinson / Terry Sheedy
2nd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner
3rd Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
4th Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris
4th Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch
5th Helen Van Den Breok / Joy Brunette
5th John Ludkin / Max Holewa
Photo supplied
Tuesday Night Fixtures
Division 1: Canaries (Josh Brown, Lily Boland, YiLin Jiang) won 7-4 over Geese (Steve Whiting, Janice Kent, Lee Brake) with Lily come home strong against Steve (-9,7,-7,8,11). Cockatoos (Mick Ruhl, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) were to strong for Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker, Graham Brake), Graeme won against Mark (-9,4,12,-4,3). Curlews (Barry Patterson, Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan) defeated Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Duncan Treloar, Allan Edwards), Anne and Geoff just edged out Trent and Duncan (-8,7,-10,8,8).
Division 2: Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta) defeated Parrots (George Camilleri, Delma Knight, Darryl Ross) 6-5, with Ollie coming back from 2 sets down to win close 5 sets against Darryl (=8,-11,8,7,7). Doves (Will VanDeKaa, Daniel Warfield, Noreen Fredericksen) won 8-3 against Kites (Ian McKay, Matt West), Ian got the better of Daniel (-4,5,7,-9,9). Galahs (Donna Abbott, Remy Zhan, Mark Stem) edged out Owls (Rod Mahumas, Ricky Zhan, Peter Goodson) 6-5, Peter snuck home over Mark (8,8,-8,-14,8).
Division 3: Some great matches while the battle for the top positions in Division 3 continues. Logan, Dylan, Mark and Jeff all had great wins.
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1: Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) edged out (Orion Orbiters) John McGee, Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd), Doug and Andrea had a great battle with Doug winning (-3,7,-7,3,9). Astro Aces (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Sally Muir) tied 6-6 against Eclipse Spin (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Darryl Ross), Darryl got home over Sally (-7,-12,3,13,5).
Division 2: Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Helen Ware, Veronica Needham) got home to win Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Marie Taylor), Veronica and Helen won close doubles match against Louise and Marie (8,-7,6,-6,9). Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Pam Joyce, Coral Morgan) defeated Ninja Strikes (Pam Keune, Frank Caruana, Ken Best) 10-2, Coral made an epic come back to beat Frank in 5 sets (-10,-5,11,1,6).
Division 3: Mongol Power (Cheryl Pearson, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) tied up 6-6 with Gladiator Grip (Allison Day, Madge Saunders, Sharon Muller), Laurie had a great win over Sharon (0,-7,-3,2,5). Aztec Warriors (Iris Grasso, Janelle Keune, Thelma Caruana) won 7-5 over Celtic Smash (David Muir, Myles Dutton, Trish Zamparutti), David and Myles had a great battle against Iris and Thelma (7,-5,-7,7,5).
Contributed by Andrea Payne
(L) Maryann Bartolo and (R) Lois Deguara. Photo supplied
The Championship Singles Final was played at the club last Wednesday 10th June to a packed crowd of well-wishing supporters of both ladies.
The game was between Lois Deguara and Maryann Bartolo two very talented club members.
A great game was enjoyed by all the spectators who came to watch this very enjoyable game. The eventual winner was a very happy Maryann Bartolo, with Runner up Lois Deguara.
Congratulations to you both on a super game.
Contributed by Sue Hazledine .
Mackay is set to host its first international Test cricket match at the Great Barrier Reef Arena from August 22nd to 26th, with Australia facing Bangladesh and excitement building across the region as tickets go on sale for the historic event. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Excitement is building across the region as Mackay prepares to host international cricket for the first time, with tickets now on sale for the 2026 NRMA Insurance Men’s Test Series between Australia and Bangladesh at the Great Barrier Reef Arena from August 22nd to 26th.
Australian cricket star Michael Neser was in Mackay this week helping build momentum ahead of the historic clash, describing the occasion as a rare opportunity for both players and fans.
“It’s a special opportunity to be the first international team to play here in Mackay,” Neser said.
“We’re all pumped, and going off the performances in the one-day series, it’s going to be very competitive.”
He said the Bangladesh side would present a strong challenge, with quality across both batting and bowling.
“We know they’ve got some talent there who bowl 150 plus, and we’re going to have to negate that,” he said.
“They’ve got very skilful batters too, so it’s going to be a great competition.”
Looking ahead to the landmark venue, Neser said the experience would be one to remember.
“It’s going to be a special event, and to be part of history is great,” he said.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the match marks a defining moment for the region as it steps onto the global sporting stage.
“We officially marked today [Monday, 15th June, 2026], with the tickets going on sale for the Australia versus Bangladesh test match right here in Mackay,” he said.
Mr Dalton said the event highlights the region’s growing capability to host major international events.
“The match represents another important milestone in Mackay’s evolution, as a destination capable of hosting major, national and international sporting events,” he said.
He also praised the Great Barrier Reef Arena and its reputation with visiting teams.
“The facility at the Great Barrier Reef Arena has earned high praise from local, state and international teams that have played here already,” he said.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said the event would place Mackay firmly on the world stage.
“It’s great exposure, it puts Mackay not just on the national stage, but the global stage,” she said.
“We are absolutely ready to be hosting this test match at the Great Barrier Reef Arena.”
She encouraged locals and visitors alike to be part of the occasion.
“Make sure you get your tickets early, because they will be selling like hot cakes,” she said.
“Make a holiday of it, and bring your family and friends with you.”
With anticipation building, Mackay is set to welcome the world this August for a landmark moment in its sporting history.
Remembrance Pairs 1st Terry, 2nd Janelle
The 2026 Whitsunday Zone Teams was held on Saturday and Sunday with 12 teams competing. Team Sheedy finished in top place, without losing a game all weekend. Team members Terry Sheedy, Max Holewa, Diane Holewa and Noel Bugeia. Well done to all who competed!
The last week of 3 Fridays Remembrance Pairs was played on Friday. This event is to remember and reflect on our members who are no longer with us for one reason or another. The outright winner was Terry Sheedy, followed by Janelle Conroy.
Weekly Results
Monday 1 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft
2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd Vicki Howard / Laura Howland
3rd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt
3rd Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor
Tuesday Evening 2 June 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
1st Helen Van Den Breok / Terry Sheedy
2nd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger
2nd Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
Wednesday 3 June 2026 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
2nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
3rd Monica Darley / Kath Poole
3rd Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
Thursday Evening 4 June 2026 – 4 Table One Winner – Green Points
1st Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger
2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
3rd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
4th Griffin Bancroft / Mick King
Friday 5 June 2026 –- Week 3 of the Remembrance Pairs - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S
E/W
1st Monica Darley / Kath Poole
1st Griffin Bancroft / Ann Whitmore
2nd Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor
2nd Janet Hansen / Thelma / Caruana
3rd Karen Caldwell / Gwen Liddell
3rd Ming Ting / Helen Van Den Breok
Final Results of Remembrance Pairs after 3 Weeks with 3 different Partners, One Winner – Red Points
1st Terry Sheedy
2nd Janelle Conroy
Saturday 6 June 2026 – Whitsunday Zone Teams 2026 – 12 Team Red Points
Team
Players
1st Sheedy Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia / Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd Conroy Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
3rd Harris Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill / Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
Remy Zhan
Tuesday Night Fixtures
Division 1: Canaries (Josh Brown, Lily Boland, YiLin Jiang) won 6-5 over Curlews (Barry Patterson, Geoff Cowan, Anne Sheridan), with YiLin just overcoming Anne in a very close five-set match (6, -11, 10, -5, 8).
Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graeme Walker, Graham Brake) defeated Geese (Steve Whiting, Janice Kent, Donna Abbott) 6-5, with Donna coming home strongly against Graham B (9, -6, -8, 9, 7).
Cockatoos (Mick Ruhl, Neil Brown, Mark Sleeman) were too strong for Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Allan Edwards, Graham Drury), winning 8-3. Allan snuck home against Mark in an extremely close battle (-9, 3, -9, 8, 9).
Division 2: Galahs (Remy Zhan, Mark Stam) were too strong for Doves (Daniel Warfield, Noreen Fredrickson), winning 4-1. Remy played extremely well to defeat Daniel in five sets (-10, 4, -8, 7, 9).
Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta) defeated Owls (Rod Mahumas, Ricky Zhan, Peter Goodson) 8-3. Rachel came back from two sets down against Peter to win a close match (-10, -10, 6, 6, 9).
Parrots (George Camilleri, Delma Knight, Liz Burton) won a close battle 6-5 against Kites (Ian McKay, Matt West, Darryl Ross), with Matt getting the better of Delma (-7, 10, -6, 8, 6).
Division 3: Some great matches were played as the battle for the top positions in Division 3 continues. Jason, Dylan, Tiffany and Jeff all recorded impressive wins.
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1: Astro Aces (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Sally Muir) just got home 7-5 over Orion Orbiters (John McGee, Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd). George edged out Andrea in a thrilling five-set battle (-9, 5, -9, 11, 13).
Eclipse Spin (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Darryl Ross) won 7-5 against Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall), with Branko securing a good win over Doug in a close five-set contest (-5, 8, -6, 9, 9).
Division 2: Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Helen Ware, Veronica Needham) got home to defeat Ninja Strikes (Pam Keune, Frank Caruana, Chris Collins). Helen won a close battle against Chris (12, 6, -9, -7, 10).
Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Josie Davis) defeated Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Robyn Bushell, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Louise fought back against Robyn to win in five sets (-8, -7, 7, 7, 8).
Division 3: Aztec Warriors (Kim Challender, Janelle Keune, Glenda Brookes) defeated Mongol Power (Gerry Synnott, Laurie Bradshaw, Thelma Caruana) 9-3. Janelle recorded a strong five-set win over Laurie (-7, 6, 4, -3, 8).
Gladiator Grip (Allison Day, Iris Grasso, Sharon Muller) tied 6-6 with Celtic Smash (Marie Taylor, Cheryl Pearson, Trish Zamparutti). Allison had a good win against Trish in five sets (-13, 9, 4, -9, 7).
Two talented swimmers from the Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club are set to represent Mackay on the national stage after qualifying for the 2026 Australian Swimming Trials in Sydney from June 8th–13th.
Ehsan Helou and Audrey Bryan have both achieved qualifying times in the highly competitive 50-metre breaststroke event and will take to the pool on Day Three of the meet, June 10th, against many of Australia’s top swimmers.
The achievement marks a significant milestone for the pair and reflects years of dedication, perseverance and hard work in the pool.
Cyclones coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier praised the swimmers for the resilience they have shown throughout their journeys to reach the elite level.
“These athletes understand better than most the highs and lows that come with elite sport — the setbacks, challenges and moments of disappointment,” she said.
“But their qualification is proof that persistence, resilience and hard work do pay off when everything finally comes together.”
The success of Helou and Bryan also reflects the commitment of Pokarier, whose passion for developing young swimmers has helped build a strong culture of resilience, discipline and belief within the Cyclones squad.
The club described the qualification as a significant milestone and said the entire Cyclones community was proud of both athletes.
The Australian Swimming Trials are among the country’s premier events, with swimmers competing for national selection and representative honours.
For Helou and Bryan, qualifying alone places them among the nation’s best breaststroke swimmers and caps off a strong long-course season for the Mackay Cyclones squad.
Their success is also proving an inspiration for younger swimmers within the club, demonstrating what can be achieved through resilience, commitment and belief.
As the countdown to Sydney begins, the Mackay swimming community will be proudly cheering on two of its own.
Some of the Mackay Road Runners who completed the North Mackay Adventure 5k and 10km run from the Bluewater Quay :- Back row (left to right) Carmel Mahon, Jess Evetts, Alana Knezevic, Jo Hughes and (front row left to right) Stuart Sprott, Steve Oberg, John Couldrey.
Thank you Race Director Andrew Short for co-ordinating a great social North Mackay Adventure 5k and 10k run from the Bluewater Quay this afternoon for over 30 runners/walkers/spectators.
Excellent performances came from runners across both events including Alana Knezevic, Shane Donnollan, David Isbister, Steve Oberg, Carmel Mahon, Jo Hughes, Fran March, Bianca Miles, Craig Johnson, Natasha Joynson, Jess Evetts, John Couldrey, Stuart Sprott, David Isbister and Andrew Short.
June 7th saw a spectacular BMA Mackay Marina Run, with best wishes to everyone involved from the Sponsors, athletes, volunteers and supporters. A big thank you to every single person for being part of this magnificent must do event hosted by the awesome Mackay Marina Run committee and wider community.
Contributed with thanks to Mackay Road Runners.
A grade finals winner Geoff Ollett and runner up Chris Banney. Photo supplied
North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club recently hosted its annual Goosepond Triples Carnival at the Goosies Club, attracting 60 players from clubs across the Mackay district.
Ladies President Hilary Jones-Rowan welcomed competitors along with sponsors Gardian, Mortgage Choice and Goosepond Sport and Recreational Club before the day’s competition got underway.
Players contested three games throughout the carnival, with lunch and afternoon tea provided by Goosies staff during the breaks in play.
North Mackay’s team of L. Bowers, L. Deguara and L. Lemke claimed first place after a strong day on the greens.
Second place went to South Suburban’s L. Howland, V. Dempsey and J. Rogers, while fellow Suburban bowlers L. Coad, H. Ray and J. Lewis finished third.
North Mackay representatives D. Mackenzie, C. Corbett and D. Gordon secured fourth place.
Three round one winners and two lucky card winners were also recognised during presentations.
President Hilary Jones-Rowan thanked all players and supporters for attending and wished everyone well for future competitions.
North Mackay Men’s Bowls Club recently held its A Grade Singles final, with Chris Banney and Geoff Ollett facing off in a highly anticipated championship decider.
Both players produced quality bowling throughout the match, with several tightly contested heads keeping spectators engaged across the final.
After a strong performance under pressure, Geoff Ollett secured the club’s A Grade Singles title for this year.
Congratulations were extended to both bowlers on an excellent contest and sportsmanlike display.
Contributed by Sue Hazledine
Two talented swimmers from the Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club are set to represent Mackay on the national stage after qualifying for the 2026 Australian Swimming Trials in Sydney from June 8th–13th.
Ehsan Helou and Audrey Bryan have both achieved qualifying times in the highly competitive 50-metre breaststroke event and will take to the pool on Day Three of the meet, June 10th, against many of Australia’s top swimmers.
The achievement marks a significant milestone for the pair and reflects years of dedication, perseverance and hard work in the pool.
Cyclones coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier praised the swimmers for the resilience they have shown throughout their journeys to reach the elite level.
“These athletes understand better than most the highs and lows that come with elite sport — the setbacks, challenges and moments of disappointment,” she said.
“But their qualification is proof that persistence, resilience and hard work do pay off when everything finally comes together.”
The success of Helou and Bryan also reflects the commitment of Pokarier, whose passion for developing young swimmers has helped build a strong culture of resilience, discipline and belief within the Cyclones squad.
The club described the qualification as a significant milestone and said the entire Cyclones community was proud of both athletes.
The Australian Swimming Trials are among the country’s premier events, with swimmers competing for national selection and representative honours.
For Helou and Bryan, qualifying alone places them among the nation’s best breaststroke swimmers and caps off a strong long-course season for the Mackay Cyclones squad.
Their success is also proving an inspiration for younger swimmers within the club, demonstrating what can be achieved through resilience, commitment and belief.
As the countdown to Sydney begins, the Mackay swimming community will be proudly cheering on two of its own.
Peter Goodson. Photos supplied
Tuesday Evening Fixtures
Division 1: Cockatoos (Mick Ruhl, Mark Sleeman, Neil Brown) won 7-4 over Curlews (Barry Patterson, Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan), Geoff was to strong for Mark (5,-8,-7,6,6). Canaries (Yilin Jiang, Josh Brown) defeated Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graham Drury) 6-3, Yilin and Josh got home against Emma and Graham in close 5 sets (-6,-5,7,10,9). Geese (Steve Whiting, Lee Brake, Janice Kent) came back to win 7-4 over Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Allan Edwards), Trent made a great come back against Lee to win (-12,-6,7,6,14)
Division 2: Parrots (Delma Knight, George Camilleri, Liz Burton) defeated Owls (Rod Mahumas, Ricky Zhan, Peter Goodson) 8-3, Liz got the better of Peter in 5 sets (6,8,-8,-8,10). Doves (Will VanDeKaa, Daniel Warfield, Noreen Frederickson) just got home 6-5 over Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta), Ollie and Rachel won a massive marathon against Noreen and Daniel (-9,14,-14,13,9). Galahs (Remy Zhan, Donna Abbott, Mark Stem) were to strong for Kites (Ian McKay, Matt West, Daryl Ross) 9-2, Ian won close battle against Mark (-5,6,8,-7,7).
Division 3: Great wins by Logan Brown, Craig VanDeKaa, Tiffany Camilleri and it is very close battle for the top positions.
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1: Orion Orbiters (Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd, John McGee) overcome Eclipse Spin (Cheryl Pearson, Kevin Abbott, Daryl Ross) 8-4, Daryl come home strong against Veronica (4,11,-5,-10,4). Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Ross DeBoer, Judy Zahn) beatAstro Aces (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Sally Muir) 7-5, Doug outlasted George in close 5 sets (-6,6,11,-6,6).
Division 2: Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Gloria Vella, Helen Ware) defeated Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Thelma Caruana, Coral Morgan) 10-2, Ian battled to get home against Coral (9,-8,7,-6,8). Ninja Strikes (Frank Caruana, Pam Keune, Chris Collins) drew 6-6 with Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Louise, Gould, Josie Davis), Kim came back to win over Pam (11,-11,-4,8,8).
Division 3:Celtic Smash (David Muir, Trish Zamparutti, Myles Dutton) outlasted Mongol Power (Gerry Synnott, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) 7-5, Trish and Myles just beat Glenda and Laurie in 5 sets (-7,8,7,-8,6). Aztec Warriors (Kim Challendar, Janelle Keune, Glenda Brookes) won close battle over Gladiator Grip (Sharon Muller, Iris Grasso, Madge Saunders) 7-5, with Kim getting home in 5 sets against Iris (10,9,-6,-10,8).
Winners - Annette, Jewel, Joy & Janice
The Mackay Novice players competed in the 2026 Australian Wide Novice Pairs Competition on Tuesday. Sixteen Mackay pairs competed against other players all over Australia. The Mackay Winners were Annette Howe & Jewel Schmidt N/S and Janice Mansfield & Joy Block E/W. Many new players who finished beginner’s lessons in March participated with excellent results. Well done to all it, was an extremely close finish.
Weekly Results
Monday 25 May 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Ming Ting / Diane Stokes
2nd
Joy Hold / Rodney Miles
3rd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Sandra Wallace / Pamela Armstrong
Tuesday 26 May 2026 – 2026 Australian Wide Novice Pairs 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Jewel Schmidt / Annette Howe
1st
Janice Mansfield / Joy Block
2nd
Jennifer Cameron / Errol Morris
2nd
Susan Ross / Laura Howland
3rd
Lynne O’Neill / Christine Fitzpatrick
3rd
Jean Penridge / Helen Goldston
Tuesday Evening 26 May 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Faye Wright / Janine Rodgers
3rd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
4th
Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
Wednesday 27 May 2026 –10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Monica Darley / Frances Brown
1st
Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Janine Rodgers /Schmidt
2nd
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz
Thursday Evening 28 May 2026 – 4 Table One Winner – Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Griffin Bancroft / Mick King
2nd
Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
2nd
Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
Friday 29 May 2026 –- 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
1st
Ming Ting / David Ting
2nd
Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
1st
Debbie Ludkin / Diane Cox
3rd
Patricia Garner / Christine Nice
3rd
Lynne O’Neill / Annette Howe
Saturday 30 May 2026 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Stokes
2nd
Marilin Robins / Janine Rodgers
2nd
Vicki Howard / Geoffr Cowan
3rd
Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd
Patricia Garner / Martin Pearce
Sunday 31 May 2026 – Novice and Mentors 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Joy Hold / Terry Sheedy
1st
Martin Pearce / Jennifer Cameron
2nd
Griffin Bancroft / Debbie Ludkin
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Annette Howe
3rd
Faith Hutchinson / Geoff Cowan
3rd
Rodney Miles / Geoffrey Patterson
Gloria Vella. Photos supplied
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1: Nova Smashers (Doug Dungavell, Bryan Marshall, Ross DeBoer) defeated Orion Orbiters (Andrea Nicholson, Veronica Shepherd, John McGee) 7-5, Veronica came back in the 5th set to outlast Bryan (2,4,-11,-8,8). Astro Aces (George Camileri, Peter Goodson, Sally Muir) won against Eclipse Spin (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight) 7-5, the doubles was super close Branko and Delma came home strong defeating George and Peter (-14,3,-8,9,9).
Division 2: Samurai Swords (John Hamelink, Robyn Bushell, Coral Morgan) won over Ninja Strikes (Frank Caruana, Pam Kuene, Chris Collins) 7-5, Coral only just came out on top against Pam (9,-10,6,-19,10). Viking Raiders (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Josie Davis) tied up 6-6 with Spartan Spin (Ian Dodds, Gloria Vella, Helen Ware), Kim defeated Gloria (-8,7,6,5).
Division 3: Aztec Warriors (Kim Challendar, Janelle Kuene, Glenda Brookes) defeated Celtic Smash (David Muir, Trish Zamparutti, Myles Dutton) 10-2, David got up against Janelle (3,-9,-7,4,5). Mongol Power (Gerry Synnott, Laurie Bradshaw, Glenda Dutton) came home strong against Gladiator Grip (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Madge Saunders)
8-4, Allison outlasted Gerry in close 5 sets (-7,4,-5,9,6).
Tuesday Night Fixtures
Division 1: Cockatoos (Mick Ruhl, Mark Sleeman, Neil Brown) took down Canaries (Josh Brown, Lily Boland, Yilin Jiang) 7-4, Yilin came back against Mark (6,-7,6,-11,8), Geese (Steve Whiting, Lee Brake, Janice Kent) won 6-5 against Curlews (Barry Patterson, Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan), Janice outlasted Anne with a close battle (-7,9,-5,6,4). Bowerbirds (Trent Day, Allan Edwards) defeated Budgies (Emma Widdup, Graham Brake) 6-3, with no 5 set matches, Emma defeated Trent in close 4 sets (-10,5,10,7).
Division 2: Kites (Syed Hossain, Matt West, Simon Hogan) won against Owls (Ricky Zhan, Rod Mahumas, Peter Goodson) 6-5, Simon beat Peter in close battle (-10,9,9,-7,5). Doves (Will VanDeKaa, Daniel Warfield, John McGee) defeated Parrots (George Camilleri, Liz Burton, Delma Knight) 7-4, Will came back against George in the 5th set to win (6,-4,7,-7,9). Galahs (Donna Abbott, Mark Stam, Remy Zhan) overcome Eagles (Andrea Nicholson, Ollie Hamelink, Rachel Fiesta) 7-4, Andrea came from behind to win a very close battle with Mark (-4,-11,6,7,9).
Division 3: This week Tiffany, Jeff, Craig, Abbas and Dylan all had very good wins to stay in the hunt for the top 4 positions.
Contributed by Andrea Payne
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2026 Mackay and Whitsunday Life Pty Ltd.
