Bowls players Sue Roscoe, Debbie Mackenzie and Sue Beale. Photo Supplied: North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club

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Contributed with thanks by Sue Hazledine

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It was an eventful couple of days at the North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club.  

The Club selected two Bowls triples, which were played today, with many of our players attending our last official ladies' club event for the year

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Three games of 12 ends were played in good fun and with a lot of competitiveness.

Our eventual winners were Sue Roscoe, Sue Beale and Debbie Mackenzie.

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In second place were Daphne Offield, Maryann Bartolo and Cheryle Corbett. Third place went to Isla Comelli, Hilary Jones-Rowan and Coral Francis

Congratulations to all players who competed.  

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Winners from North Mackay Bowls Club (second from left): Debbie Mackenzie, Donna Gordon and Lois Deguara. Photo Supplied: Mackay Bowls Club

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Contributed with thanks by Sue Hazledine

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The District Master Triples were played this week at South Suburban Bowls Club.  

A massive congratulations goes to the lovely ladies from North Mackay Bowls Club.  

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The team consisted of Donna Gordon, Lois Deguara and Debbie Mackenzie. They played a combined team from South Suburban Bowls Club.

It was a real nail-biter; the results came down to the last bowl, with the ladies from North Mackay winning the game by one point and accepting the Master Triple title for 2026.  Well done, ladies.

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Congratulations to all the players who participated in this great district event.  

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Mark Sleeman. Photo supplied

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Evening Fixtures Round 3:  

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Division 1 – Smash Masters (Trent Day, Mark Sleeman, Graham Drury) defeated Lord of the Pings (Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan, Remy Zhan) 7-4, with Mark getting home over Remy in tight 5 set match (6,6,-6,-7,5). Lob Legends (Lily Boland, Tony Bowman, Josh Brown) overcome Master Servers (Steve Whiting, Robbie Richards, Will VanDeKaa) 7-4, Robbie came home strong against Lily in 5 sets (-11,8,-8,11,9). Return Rulers (Emma Widdup, Syed Hossain) got home 7-2 over One Hill Wonders (Yilin Jiang, Geoff Cowan), Syed outlasted Geoff to win (-9,10,-5,3,9). King Pong (Geoff Denman, Graeme Walker, Abbas Irshad) won 6-5 over Net Gains (Barry Patterson, Janice Kent, Duncan Treloar), Abbas overcome Duncan in close 5 sets (-9,8,7,-8,11).

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Division 2 – Spin Masters (David Symons, Ricky Zhan, Ollie Hamelink) snuck home 6-5 over Serve Squad (Daniel, Warfield, Simon Hogan), Daniel and Ricky had a great battle, with Daniel winning (9,-5,-9,7,11).  Racket Scientists (Ian McKay, Peter Goodson, Jason Lee) defeated The Soft Serves (Mark Stam, Veronica Shepherd) 6-5, Mark battled hard to win over Peter in 5 sets (6,-7,-10,3,11).  Lobstoppers (Rod Mahumas, Marie Taylor, Logan Brown) outlasted Miss Hits (Mark Bowerman, Delma Knight, Tiffany Camilleri) 6-5, Delma came back strong to beat Rod (-9,-6,7,6,8). Better Call Pong (Dilini Ranasinghe, Lachlan Loy, Ronee) 6-5, Dilini and Lachlan got home in 5 sets against Jeff and George (-5,-6,9,8,6).

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Contributed with thanks by Andrea Payne

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Gillian and Christine. Photos supplied by Mackay Contract Bridge Club  

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Red points are up for grabs in two competitions this month. The Life Members Pairs is played by the same two partners for two weeks to celebrate past members and our current Life members. The President’s shield is played with three different partners over three consecutive Saturdays.

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Weekly Results

Monday 19 October 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Joy Block / Monica Darley

2^nd

Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen

3^rd

Christine Nice / Terry Sheedy

4^th

Rodney Miles / Joy Hold

Tuesday Evening 20 October 2026 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st

Martin Pearce / Sandra Morris

2^nd

Patricia Garner / Janet Hansen

3^rd

Diane Morgan / Glen Cocup

4^th

Vicky Howard / Richard Wix

Wednesday 21 October 2026 – Life Members Pairs 9 Table Mitchell Red Points

1^st

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

1^st

Victor Mason / John Ludkin

2^nd

Monica Darley / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Andrew Canavan / Kath Poole

3^rd

Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

3^rd

Robert Carless / Joy Robinson

4^th

Jan Harris / Sandra Morris

4^th

Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen

Thursday Evening 22 October 2026 –-4 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Mick King / Griffin Bancroft

2^nd

Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger

3^rd

Janine Rodgers / Anne Lutz

4^th

Martin Pearce / Karen Caldwell

Friday 23 October 2026 –- 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Sandy Patterson / Terry Sheedy

1^st

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

2^nd

Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore

2^nd

Monica Darley / Jennifer Cameron

3^rd

Geoff Cowan / Mick King

3^rd

David Ting / Ming Ting

4^th

Diane Cox / Christine Nice

4^th

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

Saturday 24 October 2026 – Presidents Shield Week 1 of 3 - 12 Table Mitchell Red Points

1^st

David Ting / Eric Goodchild

1^st

Christine Nice / Diane Morgan

2^nd

Sandy Patterson / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen

3^rd

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

3^rd

Faye Wright / Mick King

4^th

Nancy Wix / Richard Wixs

4^th

Susan Wright / Patricia Garner

5^th

Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris

5^th

Vicki Howard / Sue Ross

6^th

Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

6^th

Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild

Sunday 25 October 2026 – Novices and Mentors 6 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Gillian McCallum / Sue Gibson

2^nd

Anne Lutz / Glen Cocup

3^rd

Christine Fitzpatrick / Adrian Westcott

4^th

Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin

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Contributed with thanks by Joy Block

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Tony Alsop (Tony’s Triples) and best dressed Delia Walsh and Alf Lewis.  

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Contributed with thanks by Sue Hazledine

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What a wonderful turnout for the Annual Tony’s Triples, played recently at North Mackay Bowls Club. About 85 of our bowlers attended this year, all dressed in their brightest bowls attire, celebrating this fun event. Winners were chosen by lucky card, and there were many lucky recipients too. Best dressed winners were Delia Walsh and Alf Lewis, and well deserved as well.

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Rest of pics -

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Despite the rainy weather, runners turned out for this year’s Run for MI Life, held on the 18^th October this month at the Botanic Gardens, making the event a great success. Held in memory of Matthew Ivory, who was sadly taken by suicide on the 19^thOctober in 2012, the event honours a much-loved family member and friend remembered for his warm personality, sense of humour and ability to bring laughter to those around him.  

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Through the annual event, Matthew’s family hopes to encourage open conversations about depression and suicide, challenge misconceptions and help break down the stigma surrounding mental health in the community. Event organisers expressed theirthanks to participants, volunteers, sponsors, stallholders and supporters for their generosity and involvement in the successful event.

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Photo source: Run for MI Life

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See all the photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/a-community-united-for-a-meaningful-cause-at-run-for-mi-life-2026

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Thirteen-year-old Mackay baton twirler Bonnie Brodie has earned selection to represent Australia at the Nations Cup in Liverpool, England, in August 2027. Photos supplied

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A passion sparked by watching her mum and auntie has taken Mackay teenager Bonnie Brodie one step closer to an international sporting dream, with the 13-year-old earning a place on the Australian baton twirling team.

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The Year 8 Mackay North State High School student was selected in the Youth B 2 Baton division after competing at the Australian Baton Twirling Championships in Melbourne during the school holidays, where she also trialled for the national team.

“I felt very happy and I was excited to be there because it was my first time going to Melbourne,” she said.

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Bonnie will now prepare to represent Australia at the Nations Cup in Liverpool, England, in August 2027, marking her first opportunity to travel overseas.

The passionate teen trains almost every day while balancing school and other activities such as running and acro, but says the selection has been greatly rewarding, with her hard work finally paying off after countless hours she has poured into the sport.

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“I train almost every day and I just practice my routines and do the skills that are hard for me, so I can get them better,” she said.

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Having grown up around the sport, with a baton at her first birthday, Bonnie was inspired to give baton twirling a go after watching her mum, Angela Coleman, and auntie participate. Angela, who has been involved in the sport for over three decades, now coaches her daughter through Starlet Royales Baton Twirlers.

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“She was always twirling and dancing from a young age…and I thought she might take it up,” said mother and Coach Angela.

“We always let her know that there was no pressure for her to actually do that – but she chose to do it on her own, and now she loves it.”

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Angela said she was incredibly proud of Bonnie, regardless of the outcome of the team trials.

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“I was so proud of her because she went out on the floor and she did everything I could have asked of her and beyond… it was just really special and I couldn’t be prouder,” she said.

“This is just the cherry on top to be accepted, and to get to do this and walk alongside her.”

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While Bonnie is excited about visiting another country and seeing competitors from around the globe, she said her favourite part of baton twirling was “making new memories and getting to do the sport that I love with my friends”.

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Her advice to anyone thinking about trying the sport is to persevere, even when it seems challenging in the beginning.

“If you don't get it at the start, you just have to keep trying and you will get it. Just remember that you need to keep trying and practising.”

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The family is now exploring fundraising opportunities to help Bonnie make the trip to Liverpool. Updates on her training journey and future fundraising efforts will be shared through the Starlet Royales Facebook page and Bonnie Twirls on Instagram for anyone interested in her upcoming journey.  

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Congratulations Bonnie!

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Mackay-raised wheelchair rugby star Shae Graham has made history as Australia’s first female representative in the sport, earning international recognition and recently being named captain of the nation’s inaugural women’s team. Photos supplied

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By Hannah McNamara  

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Shae Graham recently became the first-ever female athlete to represent Australia in wheelchair rugby.

A car accident left Shae with a spinal cord injury at just 18, but what followed has been an impressive sporting journey, with Shae achieving milestones she may never have imagined.

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Growing up in Mackay from around the age of five, Shae spent most of her childhood and early adult years in the region before moving to Victoria in her early 20s. With family and friends still in Mackay, she returns once or twice a year.

A keen sportsperson, Shae played soccer, rugby union and touch football prior to her accident, before stepping away from sport for almost a decade. Then, a lost bet with her brother Brent forced her to give wheelchair rugby a go.

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"Ever since I hopped in my first rugby chair I instantly fell in love with the sport. It was awesome," Shae said.

She joined the Australian Steelers squad in 2019, becoming the first female to represent Australia in wheelchair rugby.

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"It's so rare that you ever get to be the first person to do anything. Especially these days. So it's a really cool achievement and something that I’ll keep with me forever,” Shae said.

Since making her debut, Shae has travelled the world representing Australia, competing in Japan, the United States, England, Thailand, Canada and Korea.

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She has also represented the Steelers at two Paralympic Games, competing in Tokyo in 2020 and Paris in 2024, and was part of the team that claimed the World Championship title in Denmark in 2022.

More recently, the Australian Steelers travelled to Brazil for the World Championships in August, finishing as runners-up to the United States.

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While the sporting achievements continue to stack up, Shae said she had also noticed plenty of personal growth along the way.

"I've really grown as an athlete over the years, and I've become stronger and more confident – not only in my game, but also in my life, and have started to take on leadership roles," she said.

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And those leadership skills are now coming into their own, with Shae recently named captain of Australia's first-ever Women's Wheelchair Rugby Team ahead of the inaugural Women's World Championship in Paris this December.

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As a strong advocate for women in sport, Shae said having equal opportunities to compete and pursue sporting passions was something she was passionate about.

"I'm a big advocate for women having access to sport and having the same opportunities as men to compete and chase down their passions," she said.

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Shae works as a librarian, while maintaining a busy training schedule of five to six days each week.

With her sights set on the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympic Games, representing Australia at a third Paralympics is another milestone she would love to achieve.

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"I think that would be an amazing achievement to be able to represent Australia at three Paralympic Games," she said.

And while Shae has travelled far beyond her hometown, she said having three Mackay-raised athletes representing Australia together was something particularly special.

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"It's quite hard to represent your country doing anything, and to have three people that grew up in Mackay on one Australian team is pretty unique," she said.

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Alongside Shae, Josh Nicholson and Brayden Foxley-Connolly also have strong connections to the Mackay region, with the trio continuing to fly the flag for their hometown on the international sporting stage.

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Photos supplied  

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Contributed with thanks by Mackay North State High School

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The atmosphere was buzzing as students hungry for revenge geared up for a grudge match 12 months in the making.

As Mackay North State High School HPE teacher Riley Martyn revealed, he could not remember the last time a Year 12 team had beaten the staff in their annual netball match.

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Despite a crowd favouring the students, the teachers held their nerve, finishing one point ahead when the school bell ended play.

Grins and sideline cheers accompanied the rivalry, with hundreds of students and staff gathering for the afternoon of competition and camaraderie.

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Two days later, the Year 12s had another chance to turn the tables in a volleyball showdown.

Fierce spikes and desperate saves kept both sides busy, but the teachers clinched another win to make it two from two.

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The graduating cohort will now look to the Class of 2027 to settle the score and finally send the teachers packing without bragging rights.

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Contributed with thanks by Andrea Payne

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MACKAY TABLE TENNIS FIXTURE RESULTS

13^TH OCTOBER 2026

Evening Fixtures Round 2

Division 1: Lord of the Pings (Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan, Remy Zhan) defeated Lob Legends (Josh Brown, Delma Knight, Tony Bowman) 8-3, Remy was absolutely on fire but got home against Tony in 5 sets (9,-7,9,-4,13).  One Hit Wonders (Graham Drury, Yilin Jiang, Geoff Cowan) outlasted Net Gains (Barry Patterson, Janice Kent, Duncan Treloar) 7-4, Yilin overcome Barry in close 5 sets (6,-5,8,-5,7).  Master Servers (Steve Whiting, Robbie Richards, Will VanDeKaa) snuck home 6-5 against (Trent Day, Donna Abbott, Andrea Nicholson), Trent came back against Steve to win in 5 sets (-7,-2,7,4,10).  King Pong (Goncalo Serra, Graeme Walker, Abbas Irshad) defeated Return Rulers (Syed Hossain, Geoff Denman, Graham Brake) 9-2, Syed and Abbas had a tight battle to the death in close 5 sets              (10,-5,7,-7,12).

Division 2: Racket Scientists (Ian McKay, Peter Goodson, Jason Lee) won 7-4 against Spin Masters (David Symons, Ricky Zhan, Ollie Hamelink), Peter came home from 2 sets down to beat Ricky in great 5 set match (-8,-8,7,5,9).  The Soft Serves (Noreen Fredericksen, Mark Stam) won 3-2 over Serve Squad (Daniel Warfield, Craig VanDeKaa), Daniel won a great battle against Mark (8,7,-5,-10,6).  Better Call Pong (Mark Sleeman, Liz Burton, Lachlan Loy) defeated Miss Hits (Melanie Theodore, Tiffany Camilleri, Veronica Shepherd) 8-3, Liz got home in the end against Veronica (8,-8,9,-9,8).  Ping It On (George Camilleri, Jeff Bennington, Rachel Fiesta) won well over Lobstoppers (Logan Brown, Marie Taylor, Dee Malik) 10-1, Rachel and Logan battled to the end, with Rachel winning (-13,6,7,3,4).

Morning Fixtures Season 4 Round 1 Wrap-Up

The weather is heating up, spring has clearly started stretching its legs, and the air conditioning is officially on.  That means Tuesday Morning Fixtures can now return to its natural state: players staying cool in the hall while doing their absolute best to create unnecessary emotional heat at the table.

Division 1

Division 1 opened the season with two 6–6 draws, which is a very tidy way of saying nobody wanted to blink first. Wizard Wands and Dwarf Diggers could not be separated, and Elf Elders and Orc Orcas also finished locked together.  Match of the Division contender: Branko Vucurovic d. Bryan Marshall (8, -8, 4, -11, 6).  Branko won the first, Bryan answered, Branko went again, Bryan dragged it to a fifth, and then Branko finally closed it out. A match that had more back-and-forth than someone trying to adjust the air conditioner temperature without admitting they are cold.  Also worth a spotlight: Delma Knight d. Doug Dungavell (7, -8, 9, -7, 5). Delma and Doug traded games all the way to a decider before Delma took control in the fifth. It was the sort of match where both players appeared to agree that three games would be far too efficient for Round 1.

Division 2

Division 2 produced one close result and one strong team win, with Siren Songs edging Witch Whirls 7–5, while Knight Kicks defeated Troll Trails 8–4.  Comeback of the Division: John Hamelink d. Gloria Vella (-9, -2, 10, 4, 5).  Two games down and looking in serious trouble, John somehow found another setting. Not fan speed one, not fan speed two - full air-conditioned comeback mode. From there, he took the next three and completed a very determined turnaround.  Five-game grit: Frank Caruana d. Helen Ware (-5, -10, 4, 7, 3)  Helen took the first two games and had the match looking nicely under control. Frank then calmly ignored that plan, won the next three, and reminded everyone that in table tennis, “nearly there” is not the same as “finished.”

Division 3

Division 3 gave us an 8–4 win to Leprechaun Laps over Vampire Vows, while Mermaid Tails made a strong start with a 9–3 win over Pixie Dusts.  Battle of the Division: Sharon Muller d. Allison Day (9, -9, -10, 4, 8), Sharon took the first, Allison grabbed the next two, and then Sharon fought all the way back to claim the fifth. A proper Round 1 reminder that the hall may be cooler, but the matches are not.  Still fighting to the end: Laurie Bradshaw d. Glenda Dutton (-9, 10, 7, -9, 9)

Laurie dropped the first, steadied, got dragged back into a fifth, and then found just enough at the end. It had everything: momentum swings, scoreboard stress, and the unmistakable feeling that both players were trying to make sure everyone got full value from the air conditioning.  Congratulations to all players on a lively start to Season 4, especially those who treated Round 1 as the perfect time to test both fitness and cooling capacity.  Interested in playing Tuesday Morning Fixtures? Contact Steve Mathieson on 0418 700 236.

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Gillian & Christine. Photo supplied by Mackay Contract Bridge Club

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BRIDGE

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Moving up the Masterpoint Ladder last month were Ming Ting (Bronze Life Master), Andrew Canavan (Silver Local) & Louise Renton (Graduate Master). Also, the Novices who received the clubs Incentive Awards last month were Annette Howe,Andrew Canavan, Gillian McCallum & Christine Fitzpatrick for playing regularly in the club and performing well.

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Weekly Results

Monday 12 October 2026  

1^st

Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

1^st

Monica Darley / Joy Block

2^nd

Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt

2^nd

Joy Hold / Rod Miles

3^rd

Louise Renton / Diane Morgan

3^rd

Sue Mayer-Miller / Karen Cadwell

Tuesday Evening 13 October 2026 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st

Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen

2^nd

Andrew Canavan / Simon Barnes

3^rd

Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

4^th

Janine Rodgers / Patricia Garner

Wednesday 14 October 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Alan Brown / Janet Hansen

2^nd

Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

3^rd

Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller

4^th

Monica Darley / Kath Poole

Thursday Evening 15 October 2026 –-4 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Andrew Canavan / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Jeniffer Cameron / John Hunt

3^rd

Louise Renton / Michelle Hall

4^th

Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger

Friday 16 October 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

1^st

David Ting / Ming Ting

2^nd

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2^nd

Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

3^rd

Geoff Cowan / Mick King

3^rd

Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell

4^th

Rod Miles / Gillian McCallum

4^th

Josie Cowley / Victor Mason

Saturday 17 October 2026 – Section A - 13 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

1^st

Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan

2^nd

Monica Darley / Joy Brunette

2^nd

Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

3^rd

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

3^rd

Ken Seaniger / Joy Robinson

4^th

Karen Calwell / Geoff Cowan

4^th

Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner

5^th

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

5^th

Faye Wright / Rod Miles

6^th

Sandy Patterson / Joy Hold

6^th

Terry Sheedy / Ian Gaskell

Contributed with thanks by Joy Block

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Mackay Surf Club is looking for a podium position after finishing 5^th last year.

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Contributed with thanks by Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club

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This weekend will see Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club host over 1000 competitors, water safety, officials and spectators from the Gold Coast up to Port Douglas, competing for the coveted title of Northern Australian Surf Lifesaving Champions for 2026.

Director of Surf Sports Josh Grant said, “Our club are extremely proud to be the host of this prestigious surf lifesaving event that we have successfully helped run since 1991.  

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“This is a huge drawcard for lifesavers to take on the best of the best in the State.  It will be awesome to see the Harbour Beach action packed with surf sports over the whole weekend.  

“This should provide some really good entertainment for those watching from the beach or the clubhouse, so come along and get involved in the action.”

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“Mackay surf club has a really competitive contingent this year with nippers, youth and masters competing in a range of beach, surf, board, ski and surf boat events.  The whole club is really looking forward to seeing how our lifesaversgo after hitting the surf for the last few months in preparation and getting 5th overall last year,” said Mr Grant.

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Club President Luke Griffith said, “We are really excited to be hosting the Nth Aussie Championships again and want to thank our planning committee, dedicated workforce, water safety, patrol members and officials, sponsors, volunteers, parents and most importantly our competitors from across the state for making this great weekend possible.  

“The club is very thankful for the support of NQBP in taking the lead with support from Mackay Council in getting the beach cleaned and ready for this state wide competition, that will now include a round of the Qld beach series.”

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“This is a true testament of what surf lifesaving is about in regional Qld and would encourage members of the Mackay community to come and support the volunteers that keep your beaches safe while they compete and represent your community. This also provides a boost to Mackay’s economy through competitors, families and volunteers spending their time & money in our beautiful region,” said Mr Griffith.

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The Beach Café will be running downstairs at the surf cub for anyone wanting a quick feed on the run and the Surf Club Bistro & Restaurant upstairs for a delicious meal and cold beverage overlooking the best beach view in Mackay.

We hope to see you at Nth Aussies 31^st October – 1^st November, at Harbour Beach, Mackay!

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Photo source: Mackay SHS

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Two Mackay State High School netball teams have returned from an international competition in New Zealand with both sides recognised for their outstanding sportsmanship.

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The teams travelled across the school holidays to compete in the International Netball Festival, where both received the Sportsmanship Award, voted on by umpires after every game.

A representative from Mackay State High School said both teams finished with an impressive 23 points, reflecting the way players conducted themselves both on and off the court.

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The representative said the players consistently demonstrated the school's values of Respect, Resilience and Pride, with umpires approaching coaches throughout the competition to commend the girls on their conduct.

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“The umpires kept coming up to coaches to tell us how much of a pleasure our girls were to umpire, how polite, fair, and kind they are and we couldn’t think of a better impact or legacy for our girls to have,” the representative said.

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Finals day saw the two Mackay teams face each other once again, with Purple narrowly taking the win over Pink.

Purple went on to secure another hard-fought victory to finish fifth overall, while Pink narrowly lost its final match to finish seventh.

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The school also paid tribute to its departing Year 12 players, recognising their efforts throughout the tournament and their contribution to the academy.

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“To our departing Year 12s — what a way to finish! You gave absolutely everything on the court and played your hearts out. We could not have asked for a better group of girls to lead our academy this year,” the representative said.

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The school congratulated every player on their dedication, commitment, sportsmanship and positive attitude throughout the trip, with Miss Nixon, Miss Allen and Mr O’Brien expressing their pride in the way the students conducted themselves and represented the school.

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David Isbister, Ollie Gorrion and Stuart Sprott catch up prior to racing the  Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10k Handicap Trophy + 5k

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Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse

The annual Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy was run and won in warm conditions from Bluewater Lagoon on Sunday morning.

Runners competed for the prestigious trophy based on their official handicap times, with the first male or female runner across the finish line taking home the title.

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Jared Mackie claimed the 2026 championship after producing an impressive run, overtaking the field despite starting from a relatively high handicap.

Mackie, who was described as a deserving winner, had overcome a serious injury earlier this year and worked hard to return to running.

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He was also recognised for his support of fellow runners, particularly within his Rules of Running training group, where he stepped into the coaching role while the group's main coach was seriously ill for several months.

Last year's winner, Max Miles, also put in a consistent performance to finish second behind Mackie.

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In the 5km event, Craig Malcolm took the win ahead of Natasha Joynson and Craig Joynson, with fellow club member Jo Hughes also delivering a strong performance.

Other notable performances came from junior 10km runner Harry Sleeman, Chloe Malcolm, Phoebe Short, Scott Sleeman and Gem Wender.

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The event was sponsored by Spine Care Chiropractic, led by George Hannaford, who has supported the annual event for several years and continues to support the club and wider community.

The Benita Willis event marked the final formal event on the Mackay Road Runners' 2026 calendar, with next Sunday's mystery run to be held as a social event ahead of the club's Awards and Presentation Night on October 24th.

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Meanwhile, the club's informal off-season program will begin on the first Sunday afternoon in November, with the Shawn's Splash and Dash Social Summer Series starting at 4.30pm at the Aquatic and Recreation Complex (ARC).

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The series will include 30 minutes on the track followed by 30 minutes in the pool. Entry to the facility is $5, payable at the pool kiosk before accessing the track.

A gold coin donation towards post-run and swim Zooper Doopers would also be appreciated, with the social sessions open to everyone, including non-members.

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Seven Mackay pickleball players competed at the Australian Pickleball Championships on the Gold Coast, with Jess Brass and Bec Labbett bringing home three medals. Photo source: Pickleball Mackay  

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Seven Mackay pickleball players took to the courts at the Australian Pickleball Championships on the Gold Coast from September 29th to October 4th, joining more than 1,300 players from across Australia.

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Jess Brass, Bec Labbett, Brett Walz, Chris Barbour, Jamie Duncan, Rob Vella and Troy Debondi all competed across a range of singles and doubles divisions throughout the tournament.

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Brass had a standout week, claiming gold in the 19+ Women’s Singles 4.0+ division and silver in the 19+ and Open Women’s Skinny Singles 3.5 and above division.

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Labbett also secured a podium finish, winning bronze alongside doubles partner Carollyn Darby in the Split Age Women’s Doubles 4.5-4.99 division.

Walz competed in Men’s Singles and Men’s Doubles, while Barbour contested Men’s Singles, Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles.

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Duncan competed in Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles, with Vella taking part in Men’s Singles and Men’s Doubles. Debondi competed across Men’s Singles, Men’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles.

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The championships attracted 1,338 registered players and, according to Pickleball Australia, were the largest pickleball tournament in the Southern Hemisphere.

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Pickleball Mackay President Brett Walz said it was great to see so many players from around Australia competing in the tournament.  

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“It was a highlight to see players from Mackay winning medals at the event.”

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Ollie Hamelink. Photo supplied

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Welcome to Season 4 and to our new players.  Our Evening Fixtures has begun and if you are interested in coming for a hit our Centre is open for Social play on Thursday (5:30pm-8pm), Friday and Sunday (8:30am-12noon), please check our website for further details.

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Tuesday Evening Fixtures

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Division 1:  Master Servers (Steve Whiting, Robbie Richards, Will VanDeKaa) snuck home 6-5 against Lords of the Pings (Neil Brown, Anne Sheridan, Remy Zhan), Steve came back to outlast Anne in close 5 sets (2,7,-6,-6,6).  Return Ruters (Emma Widdup, Graham Brake, Syed Hossain) won 7-4 Net Gains (Barry Patterson, Janice Kent, Duncan Treloar), Janice won a marathon over Graham B (6,-9,-7,8,12).  Smash Masters (Trent Day, Donna Abbott, Mark Sleeman) had a close win 6-5 over Lob Legends (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Tony Bowman), Josh came back in 5^th set against Donna to win ((-4,4,8,-9,10).  One Hit Wonders (Geoff Cowan, Yilin Jiang) One Hit Wonders (Geoff Cowan, Yilin Jiang) defeated King Pong (Geoff Denman, Graeme Walker) 3-2, with both teams missing there top players, it was the battle the Geoff’s but Geoff D overcome Geoff C (-2,-6,10,10,9).  

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Division 2: Better Call Pong (Dilini Ranasinghe, Liz Burton, Lachlan Loy) got home against Lobstoppers (Rod Mahumas, Logan Brown) 7-4, Logan came back after loosing first set against Liz to win in 4 sets (-9,9,7,9).  Ping It On (George Camilleri, Jeff Binnington, Rachel Fiesta) defeated Miss Hits (Delma Knight, Tiffany Camilleri, Mark Bowerman) 7-4, Delma was lucky to get home against Rachel in 5 sets (6,-10,-7,6,9). The Soft Serves (David Symons, Noreen Fredericksen, Mark Stam) defeated Spin Masters (Ricky Zhan, Ollie Hamelink) 7-4, Ollie was to strong for Noreen winning in 5 sets (-6,-4,9,6,10).  Racket Scientists (Ian McKay, Peter Goodson, Collin Yuis) Racket Scientists (Ian McKay, Peter Goodson, Collin Yuis) won over Serve Squad (Simon Hogan, Daniel Warfield, Craig VanDeKaa) 9-2, with no 5 set matches Ian had a close match against Daniel (-8,8,8,13).

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Tuesday Morning Fixtures will be starting next week.  

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Section B Team Winners

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Contributed with thanks to Joy Block

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The Del Ryan Pairs and Teams Congress was held in Mackay over the King’s Birthday weekend, attracting 22 Pairs and 14 Teams. We were delighted to welcome visitors from Brisbane, Gold Coast, Yeppoon, Rockhampton, Bowen and Townsville. The club extends its appreciation to North Marine for their generous sponsorship, which continues to support this Congress each year. The event ran smoothly in the safe hands of Director Bill Bishop. Congratulations to all the Winners and Placegetters.  

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Weekly Results

Del Ryan X Imp Pairs Winners – Saturday 3 October 2026 – 11 Table Mitchell Red Points

Section A

Section B

Section C

1^st

Don Cameron / Jan Randall

1^st

Marilin Robins / Faye Write

1^st

Martin Pearce / Diane Stokes

2^nd

Noel Bugeia / Val Holbrook

2^nd

Annie Lynch / Andrew Canavan

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Del Ryan Team Winners – Sunday/Monday 4 & 5 October 2026 – 14 Team Mitchell Red Points

Section A

Cameron

Don Cameron, Jan Randall, Karin Le Roux, Adrian Lohmann

Section B

Goodchild

Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild, Mick King, John McGee

Section C

Caldwell

Karn Caldwell, Sue Mayer-Miller, Lynne O’Neill, Mary Rose Lumsden, Debbie Ludkin

Tuesday Evening 6 October 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st

Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Joy Block / Terry Sheedy

3^rd

Mick King / John McGee

4^th

Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

Wednesday 7 October 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Monica Darley / Kath Poole

1^st

Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

2^nd

Bob Ellis / Susan Wright

2^nd

Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

3^rd

Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

3^rd

Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller

Thursday Evening 8 October 2026 –-5 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Tere Wotherspoon / Roland Taylor

1^st

Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

2^nd

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2^nd

Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy

Friday 9 October 2026 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Monica Darley / Barbara Tait

1^st

Sue Mayer-Miller / Gwen Liddell

2^nd

Griffin Bancroft / TereWotherspoon

2^nd

Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

3^rd

Joy Robinson / Eric Goodchild

3^rd

Geoffrey Patterson / Susan Wright

Saturday 10 October 2026 – Section A - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

1^st

Monica Darley / Janice Mansfield

2^nd

Annette Howe / Geoff Cowan

2^nd

Geoffrey Patterson / Patrick Rasmussen

3^rd

Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris

3^rd

Robert Carless / Diane Morgan

4^th

Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

4^th

Ian Gaskell / Jennifer Camerson

Saturday 10 October 2026 – Section B – 3 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Gail Gibbs / Mary Jane Marsh

1^st

Christina Brady / Patricia Wong

2^nd

Helen McKenzie / Raelene Wright

2^nd

Colleen Riddel / Pam Cassidy

3^rd

Michell Hall / John Hunt

3^rd

Sandra Wallace / Pamela Wallace

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Runners take to the trails from the Eungella Chalet towards Sky Window and Broken River and return.

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Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse

Thankyou Race Director Tim Magoffin for organising an excellent social 6k & 19km trail run at Eungella this morning with his very able assistant Andrew Short. Andrew then proceeded to notch another successful trail run under his already full belt. 

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Eungella once again showed its  spectacular weather with ALOT of early morning fog and low clouds, an excellent environment to run with some like-minded individuals and then finish off with an enjoyable post run brekky at the awesome Chalet (Thank you Tony & Tess and staff’s hospitality).

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Ryan Murray was scintillating over the technically difficult 19km, scorching over the course in spectacular form to claim first place. Ryan has shown exceptional talent over hilly terrain recently and today was no different.  Second placed Levi Wallace was also in superb form despite the unexpected early start to collect his passengers upon leaving Mackay this morning. Craig McGahey's bronze medal performance showed what a class act he is and has been for several years. Brave efforts from Jo Skinner in the 19km displayed her toughness as a competitor after an unfortunate trip up on the track.

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Rhiann Massey's 6km trail run at this location was a first for her and thoroughly enjoyable experience after a successful marathon on the Sunny Coast recently.  Fran March placed 2nd behind her in a super effort from the Chalet to Sky Window and return.

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Scott McIntosh's 6km golden performance was on show after the long trek from home to get to the start line by 7am. All runners and volunteers need to be congratulated for supporting each other including vital water aid station attendants, Paul Tilse, Jo Hughes, Alex Murray and Phoebe.

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See you at the final handicap run on the formal calendar next Sunday morning at the Bluewater Lagoon.  The annual Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Trophy & 5km is one of the most prestigious events on the Mackay Road Runners Calendar, honouring a four time Olympian and Mackay local girl, who was and still is a very humble and exceptional athlete.

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Members must start on their official handicap to be eligible for the chance to be in line for the coveted 10km perpetual trophy.  All non members are always very welcome to participate for a casual day fee however, will not be eligible for the major 10km perpetual trophy prize as they have no formal club handicap. All participants and volunteers are invited to stay for a post run sausage sizzle and random draws donated by Spine Care Chiropractic.

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Enjoy this great event to close the 2026 running program with the major finale to be at the Presentation/Awards Night at the Southern Suburbs Bowls Club on 24th October.

Noel, Janelle, Terry & Lorna

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Contributed with thanks by Joy Block

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The Whitsunday Zone Team members from Mackay - Noel Bugeia, Janelle Conroy, Terry Sheedy and Lorna Shuttlewood performed well in the 2026 Grand National Open Teams qualifying and will represent the Whitsunday Zone in Brisbane competing in the non-metropolitanGrand final next week. Well done!

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The Del Ryan Walk In’s on Friday was won by Diane Morgan and Del’s daughter Janet Hansen. Diane and Janet have played together for many years and are a prolific pair at the bridge table.

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Weekly Results

Monday 28th September 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

1^st

Joy Hold / Rob Miles

2^nd

David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2^nd

Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd

Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson

3^rd

Jan Harris / Louise Renton

Tuesday Evening 29th September 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

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E/W

1^st

Diane Stokes / Marin Pearce

1^st

Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

2^nd

Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Ian Afflix / Terry Sheedy

3^rd

John McGee / Mick King

3^rd

Janine Rodgers / Andrew Canavan

Wednesday 30th September 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild

1^st

Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy

2^nd

Monica Darley / Francie Brown

2^nd

Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

3^rd

Jan Harris / Geoff Taylor

3^rd

Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

4^th

Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

4^th

Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller

Thursday Evening 1st October 2026 –-9 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor

3^rd

Ian Afflick / Terry Sheedy

Friday 2nd October 2026 –- Del Ryan Walkins7 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2^nd

Janelle Conroy / Robyn Nolan

3^rd

Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor

4^th

Monicia Darley / Griffin Bancroft

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(L) Wenday Sonter and winner Brenda Trannore

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Contributed with thanks by Sue Hazledine

Recently we held the Under and Over 73’s Finals.  

The under 73 Final was between Brenda Trannore and Wendy Sonter. Great bowls by both ladies at every end, with determination and great positioning around the Jack. The eventual winner was Brenda Trannore for 2026.

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In the Over 73’s Ann Smith was up against Sue Hazledine. This game was also played end for end for most of the game and some lovely shots were played by both ladies. With Ann Smith the winner of today’s very close encounter.

Well done to our winners and to all the ladies who competed in all the games leading up to today’s final.

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Photo source: Central Queensland Blokart Club  

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Three blokarts and a kite buggy from the Central Queensland Blokart Club made the most of ideal conditions at Bucasia Beach ffor a midweek sail.

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An east-southeasterly wind of around 18 knots and a suitable tide created plenty of action, with gusts strong enough to require some quick sheet rope releases.

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All three blokarts were running three-metre sails, reaching a top speed of 64km/h, with some exciting turns at the northern end of the beach.

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Sandy’s kite buggy also put on a show, manoeuvring up and down the beach while avoiding the three blokarts.

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Thankfully, there were no unexpected trips into the ocean to test the water temperature.

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The afternoon was a welcome change after the club’s previous Sunday outing was hampered by a lack of breeze, making for an enjoyable session on the sand.

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The Sarina Spartans under 12s team at the 2025 Premiership. Photo supplied

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Preparations are underway for Sarina Cricket Association’s 2026 season, with the club planning to expand their juniors and women’s programs.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.  

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“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.

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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.

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Over twenty runners bolted from the gun in the Quota Park Myster 5k & 10k social run.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Contributed with thanks by Lyn Jackson

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Photo credit: Ken Fihelly

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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.

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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. 

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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.

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Contributed by Carole Weekes

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Pres. Frances, Lynne O’Neill, John Hunt & Diane. Photo supplied

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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

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Weekly Result

Monday 21 September 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

1^st

Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson

2^nd

David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2^nd

Vicki Howard / Susan Ross

3^rd

Joy Block / Noel Bugeia

3^rd

Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin

Tuesday Evening 22 September 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st

Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott

1^st

Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

2^nd

Vicki Howard / Richard Wix

2^nd

Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

3^rd

Joy Block / Terry Sheedy

3^rd

Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen

Wednesday 23 September 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

1^st

Noel Bugeia / Janelle Conroy

2^nd

Josie Cowley / Barbara Tait

2^nd

Bob Ranson / Kitty Ranson

3^rd

Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3^rd

Susan Wright / Bob Ellis

4^th

David Ting / Eric Goodchild

4^th

Ming Ting / Eric Goodchild

Thursday Evening 24 September 2026 –-4 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor

2^nd

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

3^rd

Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris

Friday 25 September 2026 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Jewel Schmidt / Lynne O’Neill

1^st

Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell

2^nd

Monica Darley / Barbara Tait

2^nd

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

3^rd

Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor

3rd

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

Saturday 26 September 2026 –-11 Table Mitchell Green points

1^st

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

1^st

Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris

2^nd

Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice

2^nd

David Ting / Ming Ting

3^rd

Jewel Schmidt / Richard Wix

3rd

Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild

4^th

Ken Seaniger / Joy Robinson

4^th

Mick King / John McGee

5^th

Julie O’Neill / Gwen Liddell

5^th

Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

Sunday 27 September 2026 –-5 Table One Winner Green points

1^st

Faith Hutchinson / Mick King

2^nd

Mary Rose Ramsden / Raeleen Wright

3^rd

Gillian McCallum / Ming Ting

4^th

Rodney Miles / Eric Goodchild

Contributed by Joy Block

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Ladies Champion - Lily Boland. Photo supplied

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Ian also partnered George Camilleri to win the Division 2 Doubles, defeating Branko Vucurovic and Tony in the final.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Full results from the 2026 Mackay Closed Championships are available through the Mackay Table Tennis Association website.

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Contributed with thanks to Andrea Payne

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Photo source: Mackay Basketball

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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.

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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.  

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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.

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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.

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“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.”

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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.

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“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."

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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.

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“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.”

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The project remains dependent on securing the additional funding, after Harrup Park was unsuccessful in its application to the Regional Precincts and Partnerships Program.

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“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.”

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Winner Cheryle Corbett and Runner up Brenda Trannore. Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Sue Hazledine

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North Mackay Ladies Bowls held its Consistency Final on Wednesday 16th September, with Cheryle Corbett taking on Brenda Trannore for the title.

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The final produced a closely contested display of precise and consistent bowling, with both players putting in a wonderful effort throughout the game.

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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.

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Congratulations were extended to Cheryle on her win, with Brenda also acknowledged for her efforts in reaching the final.

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Photo source: Mackay SHS

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Mackay State High School celebrated a successful day at the 2026 T2S Barefoot Touch Carnival, with two teams competing throughout the event.

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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.

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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.

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Both teams represented Mackay High with pride, teamwork and great spirit throughout the day.

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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.

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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.

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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.
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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. 

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For more information on upcoming kayaking, cycling and walking activities, phone 0429 363 929.

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Contributed with thanks by Carole Weekes

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Mackay Rowing Club Masters competitors delivered a strong showing at the 2026 World Rowing Masters Regatta in Slovenia. Photos supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Therese Russell.

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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 9^th to 13^th.

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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.

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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.

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Mick Wohlfahrt and Lachy McDonald also secured a second-place finish.

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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.

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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

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Well done to everyone that played Season 3 Morning and Evening Fixtures. Season 4 will commence on the 6^th October and please contact Donna or Steve if your interested in being part of a team.  

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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).  

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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).  

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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).  

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Contributed with thanks by Andrea Payne

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Club Team Winners Terry, Noel, Max & Diane. Photos supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Joy Block

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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.  

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The Airlie Beach Red Point event was held Wednesday, with sixty-four members from across our Whitsunday Zone taking part.

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Weekly Result

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Monday 14 September 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Breok

1^st

David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2^nd

Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane

2^nd

Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell

3^rd

Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes

3^rd

Anne Lutz / Joy Springer

4^th

Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait

4^th

Monica Darley / Joy Block

Tuesday Evening 15 September 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2^nd

Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy

3^rd

Mick King / John McGee

4^th

Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup

Wednesday 16 September 2026 – 4 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Kath Poole / Monica Darley

1^st

Robert Carless / Joy Robinson

2^nd

Debbie Ludkin / Geoff Taylor

2^nd

Victor Mason / John Ludkin

Thursday Evening 17 September 2026 –-4cTable One Winner Green Points

1^st

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2^nd

Griffin Bancroft / Mick King

3^rd

Adrian Westcott / Louise Renton

Friday 18 September 2026 –- 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

2^nd

Ming Ting / David Ting

3^rd

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

3rd

Diane Cox / Christine Nice

4^th

Josie Crowley / Victor Mason

4^th

Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

5^th

Faith Hutchinson / Monica Darley

5^th

Jewel Schmidt / Annette Howe

Saturday 19 September 2026 –-11 Table Mitchell Green points

1^st

Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris

1^st

Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

2^nd

Ming Ting / David Ting  

2^nd

Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan

3^rd

Susan Wright / Faye Wright

3rd

Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner

4^th

Sue Mayer-Miller / Geoffrey Patterson

4^th

Kay Jones / Dianne Cook

5^th

Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice

5^th

Ken Seaniger / Joy Robinson

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(L) Event Winner Lois Deguara with Runner up Karina Dunn. Photo supplied

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Contributed with thanks by B. Trannore and S. Hazledine

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Ladies Master Singles was played at Mackay Club over the weekend, and it was another exciting event in the Ladies Bowling Calendar for 2026.

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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.

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Photos supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Community Bank Sarina

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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.

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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”.

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“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.

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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.

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Sarina Surf Life Saving Club Treasurer Kylee Richardson said the Club was extremely grateful for the contribution of its volunteers.

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“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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Photos supplied

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Contributed with thanks by Carole Weekes

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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.

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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.

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Photo supplied

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Well another season is nearly over, next Tuesday Night we are playing finals, please come and watch and join the Round Robin.

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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).

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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).

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Contributed by Andrea Payne  

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Debra Cody (L) and Sally McGlashan after completing their swims.

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Contributed with thanks by Dan Stampa

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Avid Mackay Road Runners braved the very warm temperatures and coolish breezes for the inaugural Boomerang Hotel 5k & 10k social run

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The latest Mystery Run delivered plenty of standout performances and unexpected highlights, with Race Director Andrew Short marking the course from the Boomerang Hotel.

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Among the top 10 highlights were:

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• Craig Joynson – completed his first ever 10km.

• Daniel Stampa – returned following a six-month taper.

• Boomerang Hotel – provided high-quality service at the post-run refreshments, including complimentary blankets for patrons.

• A spectacular 1977 Holden Torana – a fully restored classic car was parked at the Boomerang.

• Kayla Waugh – enjoyed some impromptu wedding celebrations ahead of her wedding on Monday week.

• Jo Hughes – returned to running after a one-month hiatus, along with some secret training in NSW.

• Belinda Rule – returned to look after her boys, “’cause they need it”.

• Toby Rule and Harry Sleeman – dusted up their respective dads.

• Derek Woods – had a great 10km run despite popping his shoulder while doing tricks on his board at the wake park.

• Leanne Connor – was left deciding which was her left arm from her other left arm.

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 Contributed with thanks by Janelle Tilse

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Sue, Martin, Janelle & Janine. Photo supplied  

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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

1^st

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

1^st

Ming Ting / Jennifer Cameron

2^nd

Janine Rodgers / Annette Howe

2^nd

Nancy Martin / Geoff Taylor

3^rd

Terry Sheedy / Glen Cocup

3^rd

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

4^th

Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait

4^th

Monica Darley / Joy Block

Tuesday Evening 8th September 2026 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor

2^nd

Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy

3^rd

Mick King / John McGee

4^th

Chelsea Presley / Alison Pighills

Wednesday 9th September 2026 – Unders and Overs Teams - 12 Table Mitchell Green Points

Team

Players

1^st

Mayer-Miller

Sue Mayer-Miller / Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy / Martin Pearce

2^nd

Schmidt

Jewel Schmidt / Janet Hansen / Annette Howe / Alan Brown

3^rd

Fitzpatrick

Christine Fitzpatrick / Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz / Louise Renton

4^th

Rassmussen

Patrick Rassmussen / Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson / Errol Morris

Thursday Evening 10th September 2026 –- 5 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2^nd

Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor

3^rd

Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

4^th

Louise Renton / John McGee

Friday 4th September 2026 –- 17 of 26 NWP - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

1^st

Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2^nd

Kath Poole / Nancy Martin

2^nd

Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

3^rd

Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

3rd

Louise Renton / Christine Nice

4^th

Gillian McCallum / Rod Miles

4^th

Ming Ting / David Ting

5^th

Diane Cox / Anne Lutz

5^th

Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

Saturday 12th September 2026 –-12 Table Mitchell Red points

Team

Players

1^st

Holewa

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa / Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Goodchild

Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild / Ming Ting / David Ting

3^rd

Brown

Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

4^th

Harris

Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill / Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch

Contributed with thanks by Joy Block

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Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School  

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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.

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A representative from Whitsunday Anglican School said the competition had provided plenty of excitement both on and off the field.

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“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.

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“It has been fantastic to see so many students getting behind their Houses and showing their House spirit.”

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The competition also gave students who may not normally play football an opportunity to take part and try something new.

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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.

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“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!”

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See all photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/trinity-takes-inaugural-interhouse-football-title

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  

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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.

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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.

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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.

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“We knew the potential (to win) was absolutely there,” Mrs Munt said.

“We’ve got some super talented and dedicated athletes across the board.”

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Their preparation paid off when the cheerleaders “hit zero”, meaning they executed the fast-paced routine without receiving a single deduction.

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“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.”

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Year 11 cheer student Erin Insch said the unexpected result prompted celebrations and “a couple of happy tears” from her peers.

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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.

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“You have to rely on the other girls,” she said.

“You earn so many relationships and friendships between all the grades as well.”

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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Contributed by Carole Weekes

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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

1^st

Eric Goodchild / David Ting

1^st

Monica Darley / Janice Mansfield

2^nd

Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes

2^nd

Nancy Martin / Geoff Taylor

Tuesday Evening 1 September 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st

Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia

1^st

Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

2^nd

Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris

2^nd

Lynne O’Neill / Terry Sheed

3^rd

Vicki Howard / Richard Wix

3^rd

Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood

4^th

John McGee / Mick King

4^th

Shirley Worland / Ann Whitmore

Wednesday 2 September 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

1^st

Lorna Shuttlewood / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

David Ting / Eric Goodchild

2^nd

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3^rd

Andrew Canavan / Kath Poole

3^rd

Monica Darley / Jennifer Cameron

4^th

Jan Harris / Sandra Morris

4^th

Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild

Thursday Evening 3 September 2026 –- 5 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore

2^nd

Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott

3^rd

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

4^th

Andrew Canavan / Jan Harris

Friday 4 September 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Roland Taylor / Lynne O’Neill

1^st

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2^nd

Ming Ting / David Ting

2^nd

Christine Fitzpatrick / Joy Block

3^rd

Kath Poole / Nancy Martin

3rd

Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson

4^th

Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

4^th

Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson

Saturday 5 September 2026 –-12 Table Mitchell Red points

1^st

Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes

1^st

Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch

2^nd

Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

2^nd

Adrian Westcott / Faye Wright

3^rd

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

3^rd

Anne Lutz / Thelma Caruana

4^th

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

4^th

Geoff Cowan / Karen Cardwell

5^th

Ming Ting / David Ting

5^th

Geoffrey Patterson / Patrick Rasmussen

Contributed by Joy Block

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Photos supplied by North Mackay Bowls Club

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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

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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

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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

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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

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All winners will be back to North Mackay Bowls Club (Goosies) for the State Champ of Champions in November

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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.

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Contributed by Brenda Trannore and Sue Hazledine

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Veronica Shepherd. Photos supplied

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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).

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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

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Mary Burston and Shirley Haynes - B Grade Singles  District Final

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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.

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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.

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Novice player, Sue McCarthy continued ‘City’s’ success with a win against Natasha George from Seaforth Bowls Club in her first ever district event.

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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 90^th birthday milestone among family, friends and club members.  

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Contributed with thanks by Shirley Sturgeon

Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School  

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Whitsunday Volleyball is supported by coaches and mentors Mrs Suzanne Weatherhead, Mrs Val Allen, Mr Shamus Stayt and Ms Nadya Millecam.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The final fundraising total from registrations, raffles and donations was still being calculated.

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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.

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Race Results

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Under 12s 3km Girls

• Ivy Chalmers — 11:16

• Quinn O’Connell — 13:21

• Isabelle Hayles — 14:18

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Under 12s 3km Boys

• Fletcher Hegerty — 11:16

• Theo Woods — 11:56

• Connor Thompson — 12:41

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5km Female

• Lily Leven

• Gail Mackie

• Millie Bishop

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5km Male

• Oliver Hamilton

• Blake Dyson

• Jacob Grasso

• 10km Female

• Emily Hayles

• Tahnie Malagueno

• Carmel Mahon

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10km Male

• Toby Rule

• Jared Mackie

• Paul MacKenzie

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Nippers brings confidence, team work and mateship to your children. Photos supplied by Mackay Surf Life Saving Club  

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‘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!

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“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.”

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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.  

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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.  

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

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

Contributed by Josh Grant

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2026 winner of the Anne Hird Memorial Shield is Andrew Canavan. Picture shows David Hird presenting Andrew with the shield. Photo supplied

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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

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(L) Donna Abbott, (R)Tony Bowman. Photos supplied

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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).

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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).

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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).

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 5^th September and Sunday 6^thSeptember.

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.

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After being encouraged to try a blokart, he was quickly hooked.

“I tried one, and I realised, this is for me,” George recalls.

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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.

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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.

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For Paul, one of the sport’s greatest strengths is its accessibility.

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“I’ve never done sailing in my life. But it’s very easy and all it takes is a bit of common sense.”

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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.

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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.

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“Our youngest is eight, and our oldest is over eighty – so there’s no age limit, and it’s a whole lot of fun.”

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“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.”

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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.

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An excellent display of running from approx. 30 junior athletes in the Podiatry Mackay Junior Magic Mile.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The Magic Mile Milo was awarded to Mason Thompson for his inspirational efforts.

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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.

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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.

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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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.  

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Contributed by Carole Weekes

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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

1^st

Rosalyn Stevens / Marilin Robins

1^st

Diane Morgan / Sandy Ford

2^nd

Eric Goodchild / David Ting

2^nd

Joy Hold / Rodney Miles

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

3^rd

Annette Howe / Jan Harris

4^th

Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

4^th

Monica Darley / Joy Block

Tuesday Evening 18 August 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st

Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood

1^st

Lynne O’Neill / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

John McGee / Mick King

2^nd

Marilin Robins / Adrian Westcott

3^rd

Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris

3^rd

Patricia Garner / Faye Wright

Wednesday 19 August 2026 – Anne Hird Memorial Week 3 of 3 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Joy Block / Sandy Patterson

1^st

Ian Gaskell / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Martin Pearce / Eric Goodchild

2^nd

Alan Brown / Andrew Canavan

3^rd

Mary-Jane Marsh / Janine Rodgers

3^rd

Diane Stokes / Diane Cox

Anne Hird Memorial Shield Final results after 3 weeks of play

1^st Andrew Canavan

2^nd Sue Mayer-Miller

3^rd Joy Block

Thursday Evening 20 August 2026 –- 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor

3^rd

Griffin Bancroft / Mick King

4^th

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 21 August 2026 –- 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild

1^st

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2^nd

Christine Nice / Diane Cox

2^nd

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

3rd

Geoffrey Patterson / Kath Poole

Saturday 22 August 2026 –- B2 of 2 - 12 Table Mitchell Red points

1^st

Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris

1^st

Geoff Cowan / Annette Howe

2^nd

Shirley Worland / Joyce Deguara

2^nd

Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

3^rd

Terry Sheedy / Christine Nice

3^rd

Lynne O’Neill / Janine Rodgers

4^th

Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

4^th

Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin

Saturday 22 August 2026 –- B4 Final - 12 Table Mitchell Red points

1^st Lynne O’Neill / Janine Rodgers

2^nd Robert Carless / Janelle Conroy

3^rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

Contributed by Joy Block

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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  

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Mackay Triathlon Club President and Race Director Stephanie Allen said the Festival’s strong community focus remained at the heart of the event.

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“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.”

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For those considering giving the sport a try, Ms Allen said the Festival offered an accessible starting point for competitors of all abilities.  

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“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.”

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At the Mackay Triathlon Festival Media Launch, held at the Mackay Harbour Surf Life Saving Club on Friday 21^st August, Mayor Greg Williamson welcomed the event’s continued growth and success.

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“The numbers are growing again this year, which is fantastic.”

“These sorts of events do so much for our regional community.”

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Mayor Williamson said Mackay’s outdoor lifestyle offered plenty of opportunities for locals to embrace a more active way of life.

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“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.”

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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.

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“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.”

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Dean Williamson Dental has joined the Festival as a Major Sponsor, with owner Dean Williamson also an active member of Mackay Tri Club.

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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.”

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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She said she believes every child should have the opportunity to play the game they love.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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“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.”

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“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.

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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.

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“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.

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“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.

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Nominations were open until August 16th, with winners announced weekly.

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Annett, Diane, Tricia, Christine and Louise, hardworking girls. Photos supplied

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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!

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Weekly Results

Monday 10 August 2026 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Monica Darley / Joy Block

1^st

Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris

2^nd

Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Nancy Martin / Geoff Taylor

3^rd

Rosalyn Stevens / Marilin Robins

3^rd

Eric Goodchild / David Ting

Tuesday Evening 11 August 2026 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st

Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown

1^st

Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

2^nd

Patricia Garner / Faye Wright

2^nd

Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup

3^rd

Simon Barnes / Andrew Canavan

3^rd

Marilin Robins / Adrian Westcott

Wednesday 12 August 2026 – Anne Hird Memorial Week 2 of 3 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Sue Mayer-Miller / Noel Bugeia

1^st

Simon Barnes / Jennifer Cameron

2^nd

Louise Renton / Jan Harris

2^nd

Eric Goodchild / Annette Howe

3^rd

Joy Block / Diane Stokes

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Ann Whitmore

4^th

Debbie Ludkin / Patricia Garner

4^th

Geoff Taylor / Diane Cox

5^th

Andrew Canavan / Frances Brown

5^th

Anne Lutz / Colleen Riddel

Thursday Evening 13 August 2026 –- 6 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Rodney Miles / Terry Sheedy

1^st

Jan Harris / Julie O’Neill

2^nd

Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor

2^nd

Mick King / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd

John McGee / Adrian Westcott

3^rd

Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes

Friday 14 August 2026 –- 8 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor

1^st

Christine Nice / Diane Cox

2^nd

Monica Darley / Barbara Tait

2^nd

Joy Block / Christine Fitzpatrick

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Mick King / Geoff Cowan

Saturday 15 August 2026 –- B1 of 2 - 12 Table Mitchell Red points

1^st

Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor

1^st

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2^nd

Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

2^nd

Jan Harris / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd

Ming Ting / David Ting

3^rd

Lynne O’Neill / Janine Rodgers

4^th

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

4^th

Terry Sheedy / Christine Nice

5^th

Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

5^th

Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

6^th

Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

6^th

Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner

Contributed by Joy Block

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Approximately thirty runners eagerly tackle the inaugural Farview Tavern Mystery Social 5k & 10km

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Registrations close at 6pm on Friday 21^st August. Prizes will be awarded in the NQBP Open, Podiatry Mackay Under 13 and Under 18 categories.

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All runners are also eligible for the annual Magic Mile Milo Award, which will be randomly judged on the day.

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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.

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Lily Boland. Photo supplied

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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).  

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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)  

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Contributed by Andrea Payne

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Ken Fihelly. Photo supplied

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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. 

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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.

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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.  

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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.

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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.

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Contributed by Carole Weekes

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Photo source: Mackay Softball Association Incorporated 

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The Mackay Men travelled to Rockhampton for another weekend of CQ Derby softball, taking on Rocky across three games.

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After a hard-fought series, Mackay secured the win in the final game to cap off a successful weekend of competition.

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The derby featured quality softball and strong camaraderie between the two teams, with Mackay thanking Softball Rockhampton for hosting the event.

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The Dragons Abreast Mackay Inc. team. Photos supplied  

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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.  

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After the festival some members will visit French Battlefields and Memorial Sites to pay their respects. Lest We Forget.

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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.

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“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.”

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Contributed by Janelle Moran

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Photo credit: Ken Fihelly

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Contributed by Carole Weekes

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Some of the beautiful Mackay Road Runners ladies prior to racing the Whibley’s Wander 5 & 10km annual event.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Members are also reminded of the following Club Championship events this month:

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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.

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 Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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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

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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

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Tuesday Evening Fixtures - 4th August 2026

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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).

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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).

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Contributed by Andrea Payne

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Jenny Furini and Theresa Hackney formed the on-the-ground support crew, while many more supporters cheered from Mackay.

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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.

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Contributed by Gerri Kissner

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Andrea Nicholson. Photo supplied

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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).

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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).

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Contributed by Andrea Payne  

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Winning team - Lorna, Janelle, Terry and Noel. Photo supplied  

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Red, Gold & Green At The Bridge Club!

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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.

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Weekly Results

Monday 27th July 2026 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Nancy Martin / Geoff Taylor

1^st

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

2^nd

Monica Darley / Joy Block

2^nd

Eric Goodchild / David Ting

3^rd

Margaret Geeham / Adrian Westcott

3^rd

Jaqui Morton / Robert Morton

4^th

Patrick Rasmussen / Mary Rose Ramsden

4^th

Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris

Tuesday Evening 28th July 2026 –Unders and Overs Pairs 12 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st

Glen Cocup / Patricia Garner

1^st

Marilin Robins / Mick Robbins

2^nd

Lynne O’Neill / Frances Brown

2^nd

Helen Van Den Breok / Ian Vary

3^rd

Martin Pearce / Noel Bugeia

3^rd

Janine Rodgers / Susan Ross

4^th

Joy Block / Terry Sheedy

4^th

Ming Ting / Susan Gibson

4^th

Christina Brady / Alan Brown

5^th

Michelle Hall / Mick King

Wednesday 29th July 2026 – Founders Teams Week 3 of 3 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

Team

Players

1^st

Sheedy

Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood

2^nd

Ting

Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild

3^rd

Rasmussen

Patrick Rasmussen, Mary Rose Ramsden, Diane Holewa, Max Holewa

4^th

Howard

Vicki Howard, Susan Ross, Janine Rodgers, Anette Howe

Wednesday 29th July 2026 – Final Founders Teams Red Points

Team

Players

1^st

Sheedy

Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood

2^nd

Ting

Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild

3^rd

Morris

Sandra Morris, Jan Harris, Frances Brown, Alan Brown

Thursday Evening 30th July 2026 –- 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

3^rd

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

Friday 31 July 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

1st

Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild

2^nd

Lorna Shuttlewood/ Debra Goodchild

2^nd

Lynne O’Neill / Roland Taylor

3^rd

Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor

3^rd

Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

4^th

Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix

3^rd

Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell

Saturday 1st August 2026 –- Final GNOT Teams Gold Points

Team

Players

1^st

Bugeia

Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood

2^nd

Brown

Frances Brown, Alan Brown, Diane Morgan, Janet Hansen  

3^rd

Morris

Sandra Morris, Jan Harris, Frances Brown, Alan Brown

4th

Ting

Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild

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Contributed by Joy Block

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Photo credit: Edie weiss

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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

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Photo credit: Di Rutland  

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Christmas in July was celebrated last weekend with fifteen participants involved in a range of activities in perfect weather at Ball Bay.

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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.

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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.

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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.  

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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!

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Weekly Results

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Monday 20th July 2026 – Week 14 of 26 NWP - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

‍

E/W

1^st

Eric Goodchild / David Ting

1^st

Joy Block / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Nancy Martin / Geoff Taylor

2^nd

Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris

3^rd

Monica Darley / Janice Mansfield

3^rd

Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell

Tuesday Evening 21st July 2026 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st

Faye Wright / Marilin Robins

2^nd

Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris

3^rd

Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor

4^th

Vicki Howard / Richard Wix

Wednesday 22nd July 2026 – Founders Teams Week 2 of 3 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

‍

Team

Players

1^st

S. Morris

Sandra Morris, Jan Harris, Francis Brown, Alan Brown

2^nd

Ting

Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild

3^rd

Sheedy

Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood

4^th

Rasmussen

Patrick Rasmussen, Mary Rose Ramsden, Diane Holewa, Max Holewa

Thursday Evening 23rd July 2026 –- 3 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2^nd

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

3^rd

Geoff Taylor / Anne Lutz

Friday 24 July 2026 –- 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

1st

Ming Ting / David Ting

2^nd

Geoffrey Patterson / Susan Wright

2^nd

Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild

3^rd

Lorna Shuttlewood/ Debra Goodchild

3^rd

Diane Cox / Christine Nice

4^th

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

3^rd

Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan

Saturday 25th July 2026 –- 12 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

‍

E/W

1^st

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

1^st

Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

2^nd

Ming Ting / David Ting  

2^nd

Geoff Taylor / Andrew Canavan

3^rd

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

3^rd

Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild

4^th

Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger

4^th

Julie O’Neill / Gwen Liddell

Sunday 26th July 2026 –- Noice and Mentors -6 Table One Winer Green Points

1^st

Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor

2^nd

Jennifer Camerson / Martin Pearce

3^rd

Lynne O’Neill / Susan Gibson

4^th

Debra Goodchild / Annette Howe

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Diane and Max – ABF -Gold Life. Photo supplied

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Contributed by Joy Block

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A very successful Eungella King & Queen of the Mountain outing for the Hayles family – Oscar (4^th Junior male), Isabelle (3^rd Junior female) , Emily (2^nd Open female), Lissy and Stephen Hayles.

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Congratulations to the runners and cyclists who took part in the annual Historical King and Queen of the Mountain last weekend.

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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.

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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.

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Results:-

Torque Tyres & Trailers Cycle King & Queen of the Mountain:-

Naomi Ballard - 1st Female

Max Teague - 1st Male

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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

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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

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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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!

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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).

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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).

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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)

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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).

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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).

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Contributed with thanks to Andrea Payne

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Photo source: North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club

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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.  

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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.

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There was plenty to celebrate at Mackay parkrun on 25^th 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.  

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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"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.

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"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."

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"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."

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Applications Open for Next Round

• Standard Grants: Young athletes, coaches and officials have until 31^st August 2026 to apply for the new round.

• Para Champions: Round 1 of the Local Para Champions program is also open until 31^st August, offering between $750 and $1,000 for competitors with a disability.

• How to Apply: Visit ausport.gov.au/grants_and_funding/local_sporting_champions.

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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 6^th–9^th  August for four days of epic fishing, entertainment and fundraising.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.  

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Runners get ready for the start of Jo’s 61 steps in very cool but sunny conditions. Photo supplied

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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.

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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.

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The course wound through Annie Wood Avenue, Pollock and High streets, and Norris Road, starting from Gordon White Library.

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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.

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Sunday 26^th 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.

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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.

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The course starts at Netherdale and finishes at the Eungella Chalet. Runners must register online by 6pm on Saturday 25^th July, while cyclists should refer to the registration link for contact details.

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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.

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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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!

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Weekly Results

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Monday 13^th July 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points NWP

N/S

E/W

1^st

Ming Ting / David Ting

1^st

Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen

2^nd

Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes

2^nd

Joy Hold / Rodney Miles

3^rd

Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris

3^rd

Karen Caldwell / Sue Mayer-Miller

Tuesday Evening 14^th July 2026 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st

Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup

2^nd

Mick King / John McGee

3^rd

Ann Whitmore / Frances Brown

4^th

Susan Gibson / Karen Caldwell

Wednesday 15^th July 2026 – Founders Teams Week 1 of 3 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points

Team

Players

1^st

Sheedy

Terry Sheedy, Janelle Conroy, Noel Bugeia, Lorna Shuttlewood

2^nd

Poole

Kath Poole, Josie Crowley, Monica Darley, Barbara Taite

3^rd

Rasmussen

Patrick Rasmussen, Mary Rose Ramsden, Diane Holewa, Max Holewa

4^th

Ting

Ming Ting, David Ting, Debra Goodchild, Eric Goodchild

Thursday Evening 16^th July 2026 –- 3 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless

2^nd

Julie O’Neill / Jan Harris

3^rd

Martin Pearce / Adrian Westcott

Friday 17^th July 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

1^st

Helen Van Den Breok / Christine Nice

1st

Richard Wix / Geoff Taylor

2^nd

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

John McGee / Mick King

3^rd

Ming Ting / David Ting

3^rd

Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

4^th

Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild

4^th

Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell

Saturday 18^th July 2026 – Novice X Imps Pairs 8 Tables 16 Pairs Red Points

1^st

Vicki Howard / Susan Ross

2^nd

Glen Cocup / Ian Vary

3^rd

Rod Miles / Joy Hold

4^th

Toni Barrel / Mary Overall

5^th

Linda Priday / Jill Brabon

6^th

Christine Fitzpatrick / Colleen Riddel

Saturday 18^th July 2026 –- 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice

1^st

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

2^nd

Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

2^nd

Geoffrey Patterson / Patrick Rasmussen

3^rd

Anne Lutz / Geoff Taylor

3^rd

Ken Seaniger / Diane Morgan

4^th

Barbara Tait / Patricia Garner

4^th

Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood

Contributed by Joy Block

Anne with Winners Vicki, Susan and President Frances. Photo supplied

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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 27^th. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton visited Mackay Pony Club on Monday 20^th 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.

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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, 27^th July.

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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.

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“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.

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“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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Ms Camilleri, who has been passionate about horse-riding since she was a young girl, said:

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“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.

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“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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Contributed with thanks by Carole Weekes

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Photo source: Mackay Athletics Club  

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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.

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The team delivered a strong performance across the event, with several athletes achieving personal bests and record-breaking results.

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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.

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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.

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Cathryn and Kevin both impressed, each breaking four carnival records during their events.

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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.

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The MAC athletes enjoyed a successful day of competition, showcasing the dedication and talent within the club.

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Photo source: North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The club congratulated Nigel, Geoff, Dan and Pierre on their outstanding performances.

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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.

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Christine Fitzpatrick pictured. Photo supplied

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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

1^st

Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt

1^st

Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy

2^nd

Ming Ting / David Ting

2^nd

Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd

Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes

3^rd

Joy Hold / Rodney Miles

Tuesday Evening 7 July 2026 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st

Mick King / John McGee

2^nd

Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy

3^rd

Martin Pearce / Glen Cocup

4^th

Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Breok

Wednesday 08 July 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Frances Brown / Alan Brown

1^st

Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2^nd

Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd

Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood

3^rd

Monica Darley / Kath Poole

3^rd

Sandy Patterson / Geoff Patterson

4^th

Sandra Morris / Jan Harris

4^th

David Ting / Ming Ting

Thursday Evening 09 July 2026 –- 3 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Jan Harris / Anne Lutz

2^nd

Mick King / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd

Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

4^th

Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy

Friday 10 July 2026 –- 7 Table Rover Switch One Winner Green Points

1^st

Max Holewa / Diane Holewa

2^nd

Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

3^rd

Mick King / Joy Block

4^th

Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

5^th

Jewel Schmidt / Annete Howe

6^th

Pamela Finger / Janelle Conroy

Saturday 11 July 2026 –- 11 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st

Mary Rose Ramsden / Chris Nice

1^st

Mick King / John McGee

2^nd

Alan Brown / Frances Brown

2^nd

Griffin Bancroft / Jan Harris

3^rd

Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood

3^rd

Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner

4^th

Sandy Patterson / Joy Hold

4^th

Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless

5^th

Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris

5^th

Sue Ross / Sue Mayer-Miller

Sunday 12 July 2026 – Novice (Beginners) under 5 points. 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st

Jennifer Cameron / Glen Cocup

2^nd

Colleen Riddel / Pam Cassidy

3^rd

John Hunt / Patricia Wong

4^th

Mary-Jane Marsh / Louise Renton

Contributed by Joy Block

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Approximately 30 runners vying for the coveted Garmin Forerunner 265S sports watch.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Mackay and District BMX Club - Representing Australia in the Green and Gold Race Jerseys. (Absent – Tristyn Kronk, Jaxon Philp and Jack Hancroft.) Photos supplied

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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.

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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.

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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.

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"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.

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"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."

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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.

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23 Mackay Riders out of the following will represent Australia:  

• Tristyn Kronk — Masters Men

• Ashton Wallin — 10 Boys 20"

• Chloe Knight — 11 Girls 20"

• Adelyn Eatwell — 12 Girls 20"

• Lilly Bolger — 12 Girls 20"

• Ruby Soke — 13 Girls 20"

• Liam Wilson — 13 Boys 20"

• Max Ransome — 14 Boys 20"

• Sarah Keidge — 14 Girls 20"

• Paige Knights — 14 Girls 20"

• Dylan Secher — 15 Boys 20"

• Willow Pogmore — 15 Girls 20"

• Chelsea Evans — 16 Girls 20"

• Jack Hancroft — U12 Boys Cruiser

• Adelyn Eatwell — U12 Girls Cruiser

• Max Ransome — 13–14 Boys Cruiser

• Liam Wilson — 13–14 Boys Cruiser

• Paige Knights — 13–14 Girls Cruiser

• Sarah Keidge — 13–14 Girls Cruiser

• Ruby Soke — 13–14 Girls Cruiser

• Dylan Secher — 15–16 Boys Cruiser

• Connor Parish — 17–24 Men Cruiser

• Brodie Wilson — 17–24 Men Cruiser

• Jaxon Philp — 17–24 Men Cruiser

• Louis Cauchi — 17–24 Men Cruiser

• Brendan Knights — 40–44 Men Cruiser

• Sherridan Pogmore — 40–44 Women Cruiser

• Connor Parish — 17–24 Men 20"

• Ashton Johns — 25–29 Men 20"

• Cooper Comerford — 25–29 Men 20"

• Michael Wallin — 35+ Men 20"

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Photo credit: Julie Ward

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Members of the club were active again last weekend after the main event had been cancelled the previous Sunday because of rainy weather.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Next weekend Mt Dalrymple is on the calendar for club members, weather permitting.

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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.

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Contributed by Carole Weekes

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Over twenty runners enjoyed the cool but blustery conditions at the Mackay Harbour Marina 5k & 10km Casu Jacks social event.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Participants enjoying Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim. Photo supplied

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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.

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“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.

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“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”.

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“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.  

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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.

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Register before 14 July to receive an early bird ticket and free event shirt at https://sarinacruisinthecoast.com.au/tickets.

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Photo source: Mackay basketball (Facebook)

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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The camp concluded after two full days of activity, marking another successful instalment of Mackay Basketball’s ongoing holiday program.

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Photo source: North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Nigel finished third in his age group, while Dan also secured third place in his respective age group.

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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.

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Both Nigel and Dan enjoyed some extra success away from the pool, each winning prizes in the event's multi-draw.

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The club congratulated all swimmers on their performances and thanked Brisbane Southside Meet organisers for hosting another successful competition.

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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.  

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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.  

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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.

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Weekly Results  

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Monday 22 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points  

N/S

E/W

1^st David Ting / Eric Goodchild

1^st Nancy Martin / Susan Ross

2^nd Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris

2^nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins

3^rd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy

3^rd Janice Mansfield / Debra Goodchild

4^th Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft

4^th Sue Mayer-Miller / Karen Caldwell

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Tuesday Evening 23 June 2026 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points  

1^st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild

2^nd Frances Brown / Rodney Miles

3^rd Janet Hansen / Ken Seaniger

4^th Helen Van Den Breok / Terry Sheedy

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Wednesday 24 June 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Joy Block / Diane Stokes

1^st Diane Holewa / Max Holewa

2^nd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia

2^nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown

3^rd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt

3^rd Terry Sheedy / Mick King

4^th Joy Robinson / Robert Carless

4^th Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz

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Thursday 25 June 2026 –- 4 Table One Winner Green Points

1^st Mick King / Griffin Bancroft

2^nd Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia

3^rd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan

4^th Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott

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Friday 26 June 2026 –- 7 Table Mitchell Green Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Geoff Cowan / Mick King

1^st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix

2^nd Monica Darley / Barbara Tait

2^nd David Ting / Ming Ting

3^rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes

3^rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole

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Saturday 27 June 2026 –- 13 Table Mitchell Red Points

N/S

E/W

1^st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins  

1^st Alan Brown / Frances Brown

2^nd Joy Hold / Sandy Patterson

2^nd Christine Nice / Mary Rose Ramsden

3^rd Nancy Wix / Richard Wix

3^rd Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner

4^th Gwen Liddell / Julie O’Neill

4^th Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell

5^th Monica Darley / Nancy Martin

5^th Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Breok

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Sunday 28 June 2026 – 7 Tables Green Points Novices and Mentors

N/S

E/W

1^st David Ting / Rodney Miles

1^st Andrew Canavan / Geoff Taylor

2^nd Susan Ross / Joy Hold

2^nd Colleen Riddel / Sue Mayer-Miller

3^rd Christine Fitzpatrick / Griffin Bancroft

3^rd Gillian McCallum / Ming Ting

4^th Neila Quintero / Martin Pearce

4^th Debbie Ludkin / John Ludkin

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Contributed by Joy Block

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Damp unforgiving rains did not take the fun out of a social Mackay Road Runners event from Eimeo Surf Club.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Contributed by Janelle Tilse

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Tri-ActiV8 has earned statewide recognition after taking home two major honours at the 2026 AusTriathlon Queensland State Awards on Saturday 27^th June, marking the first time the organisation has been recognised for its triathlon efforts within the Mackay and Isaac region.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Under her leadership, Tri-ActiV8 has grown into a welcoming hub for triathletes of all abilities across the Mackay and Isaac regions.

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“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.  

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“Knowing that my athletes and our community felt moved to nominate me for this – that’s the real award.”

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“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.

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Tri-ActiV8's celebrations continued with the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon receiving the Club Event of the Year award.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Tri-ActiV8 Director and Head Coach Nikki Giles was named Coach of the Year at the 2026 AusTriathlon Queensland State Awards. Photo supplied

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