With temperatures feeling closer to 35 degrees and no rain in sight, it was a very Mackay-style lead-up to Christmas at this week’s Bluewater Quay Social Run. Forget a white Christmas, runners were treated to hot, testing conditions during the afternoon’s 5km and 10km events.
Race Director Andrew Short was thanked for delivering another successful run, despite the heat, with welcome relief provided by Zooper Doopers and Red Dog’s rehydration options, which were greatly appreciated by participants.
The next Bluewater Quay social run, commencing at 4.30pm next Sunday, will be the final event before Christmas. Runners are encouraged to come along for a festive group photo and stay on for a Christmas drink afterwards. Some of the best photos may feature in this Mackay Life Newspaper and the Mackay Road Runners 2026 calendar, described humorously as a firefighter-style calendar, but with clothes.
Congratulations were extended to all participants for their efforts in challenging conditions, with a reminder for runners to continue training and racing in such conditions to stay healthy and safe.
“Thank you to Mackay & Whitsunday Life magazine for their awesome support of the Mackay Road Runners Club!”
Craig Joynson with water spray bottle and Natasha Joynson tackle the Bluewater Quay social 5km run with ease.
Jo Hughes - “Are we there yet?”
Race Director Andrew Short makes light work of the Bluewater Quay social 10km.
Carmel Mahon and Stephen Oberg elated to cross the Bluewater Quay social 10km finish line.
It’s a thumbs up from everyone at the Bluewater Quay Social 5k, 10km (left to right) – Len Howarth, Derek Woods, Carmel Mahon, Jo Hughes, Stephen Oberg, David Isbister and Andrew Short. Photos supplied
Two of the Rules of Running Middle Distance Squad athletes made their way down to Melbourne to compete at the 2025 Chemist Warehouse Australian Athletics All Schools Championships from the 4th–7th of December.
Millie Groom competed in the 3000m, placing 5th in Australia and achieving a huge 26-second PB. The following day she raced the 2000m Steeplechase, placing 6th in Australia with a 12-second PB.
Ayla Moon competed in the 400m, qualifying fastest and then winning the Gold Medal the next day; her second National title this year.
Within an hour she was back on the track for the 1500m final, holding her position and remaining in contention until the last 300m, finishing 9th in Australia.
On the final day of competition, Ayla ran the 800m and won the Silver Medal.
Ayla will now take a short rest before building into cross country season, balancing workload with LAQ States in March.
Millie will also have a short rest before shifting focus toward Triathlon States in February, then building into cross country season alongside the squad.
The squad has had a huge 2025 with success across both Cross Country and Track & Field — securing multiple medals, PBs, State and National titles. Many of our senior athletes were also selected for Regional, State, National and Athletics North Queensland representative teams, highlighting the depth and maturity of the program.
Looking ahead, 2026 will see the squad expand from three to four fully supported training squads, allowing even more athletes to join while maintaining high-quality, individualised programming. Coach Belinda Rule was also proudly awarded ANQ’s Coach of the Year for 2025.
Huge things are on the horizon for 2026, especially with the squad partnering with Momentum High Risk Training through amazing sponsorship opportunities.
Contributed by Belinda Rule
Two Mackay middle-distance athletes delivered standout performances at the Australian All Schools Championships, with Millie Groom securing major PBs and Ayla Moon claiming gold and silver among her national results. Photo credit: Kylie Nyssen.
Results for week ending Saturday 6th December 2025
Monday 1st December 2025 – 7 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st DAVID TING - ERIC GOODCHILD 1st GEOFF TAYLOR - GEOFFREY PATTERSON
2nd JAN HARRIS - JULIE O'NEILL 2nd DIANE HOLEWA - MAX HOLEWA
3rd BARBARA TAIT - MARGARET LANE 3rd JEWEL SCHMIDT - RICHARD WIX
4th DIANE STOKES - EDWARD KLIESE
Tuesday 2nd December 2025 – 4 ½ Table Howell Green Points
1st JOHN MCGEE - MICK KING 3rd ERIC GOODCHILD - NOEL BUGEIA
2nd ERROL MORRIS - MICK ROBINS 4th PATRICIA GARNER - ADRIAN WESTCOTT
Wednesday 3rd December 2025 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st DAVID TING - ERIC GOODCHILD 1st SANDY PATTERSON - GEOFFREY PATTERSON
2nd MAX HOLEWA - DIANE HOLEWA 2nd MING TING - DEBRA GOODCHILD
3rd JOY ROBINSON - ROBERT CARLESS 3rd GWEN LIDDELL - ANNE LUTZ
4th MONICA DARLEY - FRANCES BROWN 4th JEWEL SCHMIDT - ALAN BROWN
Thursday Evening 4th December 2025 – 4 Table Howell Green Points
1st KEN SEANIGER - ROBERT CARLESS
2nd IAN CRUICKSHANK - ADRIAN WESTCOTT
3rd GEOFF TAYLOR - ANNE LUTZ
4TH MARY CRUICKSHANK - MICK KING
Friday 5 December 2025 –6 ½ Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st JANINE RODGERS - RICHARD WIX 1st VICTOR MASON - JOSIE CROWLEY
2nd TEX SHEEDY - NOEL BUGEIA 2nd MARTIN PEARCE - GWEN LIDDELL
3rd JOY ROBINSON - GEOFF TAYLOR 3rd MICK KING - GEOFF COWAN
Saturday 6th December 2025 – 10 ½ Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South East/West
1st JOY ROBINSON - KEN SEANIGER 1st FRANCES BROWN - ALAN BROWN
2nd RICHARD WIX - TEX SHEEDY 2nd MING TING - DAVID TING
3rd JANELLE CONROY - ROBERT CARLESS 3rd ERROL MORRIS - IAN GASKELL
4th LAURA HOWLAND - JANINE RODGERS 4th ANNE LUTZ - RODNEY MILES
5th ANNETTE HOWE - VICKI HOWARD 5th LORNA SHUTTLEWOOD - SUSAN WRIGHT
Contributed by Robert Carless
President Francie Brown with the Martin Pearce and Sue Mayer-Miller winners of the 2025 Mackay Bridge Club Novice Pairs Championship. Photo supplied
The November instalment of Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series wrapped up with thanks to Race Director Jim Ford, ahead of a well-earned break throughout December. The popular series will return on the first Sunday afternoon of January 2026, keeping the same time, place and format for athletes eager to restart their routine.
For those still keen to maintain fitness over the holiday period, Mackay Road Runners will continue meeting at 4.30pm each Sunday at Bluewater Quay for a casual 5km or 10km run , or any distance in between, with post-run hydration available for purchase at The Red Dog.
Runners are reminded to stay mindful of hydration before, during and after training or racing, particularly in the extreme weather currently affecting the region, to ensure optimal performance and recovery.
Social 5km Brings Festive Cheer To Bluewater Quay
A cheerful group of Mackay Road Runners, Natasha, Craig, Alex, Carmel, Andrew, David and Len, enjoyed a festive social 5km at Bluewater Quay as the club eases into December. The relaxed run came as Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series pauses for the month, ahead of its return to the ARC on the first Sunday afternoon of January 2026.
Runners made the most of the pre-Christmas atmosphere, enjoying the option of a 5km or 10km loop, a refreshment at The Red Dog, and even a quick photo in front of the Christmas tree before heading home to tackle weekend chores.
The club says it “loves this photo of our regular runners”.
Updates on the 2026 Mackay Road Runners calendar of events will be shared soon, as preparations continue for a milestone year.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
(left to right) Andrew, Rebecca and Chloe take in the ominous sky before they hit the track for 30 minutes in the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
(left ro right) Jose, Carolyn and Alana ease into the 30 minute track session as part of the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
Race Director & Mackay Road Runners Club Captain, Jim Ford supporting Adam Knezevic (right) as he completes as many laps as possible in the 30 minute track session.
Regular participants, Vivian and Harvey Knezevic enjoy the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series.
Phoebe Short having a great time now she’s finished the 30 min pool section of Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Social Biathlon Series.
Andrew Flanagan maintains excellent form on the track before the swim portion of the Biathlon Series. Photos supplied
North Mackay Ladies have had another amazing year on the bowling greens. Winning the Premier shield for the 5th year in succession, which is an amazing achievement for the club.
In the district, points are awarded to each club for Winners and Runners Up in the following categories. Master Pairs, Symons Shield, Johnstone Shield, Pennants and District Champion of Champions.
The District Presentation for the shield was held recently and presented to our President Hilary Jones-Rowan.
Photographed are some of the Members of this great club with the Perpetual Trophy.
Contributed by Sue Hazledine
Photo supplied
Results For Week Ending Sunday 30th November 2025
Monday 24 November 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Geoff Taylor - Nancy Martin
2nd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 2nd Marilin Robins - Mick Robins
3rd Edward Kliese - Diane Stokes 3rd Barbara Tait - Margaret Lane
4th Pamela Finger - Ming Ting 4th Helen Van Den Broek - Jan Harris
Tuesday 25 November 2025 – 5 ½ Table Howell Green Points
1st Janet Hansen - Diane Morgan 4th Richard Wix - Tex Sheedy
=2nd Eric Goodchild - Noel Bugeia 5th John Mcgee - Mick King
=2nd Geoff Taylor - Janelle Conroy
Wednesday 26 November 2025 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points (Nationwide Pairs)
North/South East/West
1st Janelle Conroy - Noel Bugeia 1st Janet Hansen - Alan Brown
2nd Max Holewa - Diane Holewa 2nd Tex Sheedy - Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 3rd Ming Ting - Debra Goodchild
4th Monica Darley - Frances Brown 4th Geoffrey Patterson - Sandy Patterson
Thursday Evening 27 November 2025 – 4 Table Howell Green Points
1st Frances Brown - Ann Whitmore
2nd Ken Seaniger - Robert Carless
3rd Annie Lynch - Sandra Morris
4th Jan Harris - Tex Sheedy
Friday 28 November 2025 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Joy Robinson - Geoff Taylor 1st David Ting - Ming Ting
2nd Susan Wright - Geoffrey Patterson 2nd Martin Pearce - Gwen Liddell
3rd Geoff Cowan - Mick King 3rd Lynne O'neill - Roland Taylor
Saturday 29 November 2025 – 8 ½ Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Ming Ting - David Ting 1st Christine Nice - Mary Rose Ramsden
2nd Annette Howe - Jewel Schmidt 2nd Lorna Shuttlewood - Susan Wright
3rd Joy Robinson - Ken Seaniger 3rd Mick King - Ian Gaskell
4th Geoff Taylor - Margaret Lane 4th Susan Ross - Laura Howland
Sunday 23 November 2025 – Novice Pairs Championships Round 1 – 6 Table Mitchell - Red Points
North/South East/West
1st Faith Hutchinson - Geoff Cowan 1st Lynne O'neill - Karen Caldwell
2nd Joy Hold - Gillian Mccallum 2nd Sandy Patterson - Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd Rodney Miles - Christine Morrison 3rd Martin Pearce - Sue Mayer-Miller
Sunday 30 November 2025 –Novice Pairs Championships Round 2 – 6 Table Mitchell - Red Points
North/South East/West
1st Sue Mayer-Miller - Martin Pearce 1st Joy Hold - Gillian Mccallum
2nd Faith Hutchinson - Geoff Cowan 2nd Ian Gaskell - Carol Gaskell
3rd Mary Rose Ramsden - Sandy Patterson 3rd Jewel Schmidt - Annette Howe
Sunday 30 November 2025 –Novice Pairs Championships Final – Red Points
1st Martn Pearce - Sue Mayer-Miller 4th Sandy Patterson - Mary Rose Ramsden
2nd Joy Hold - Gillian Mccallum 5th Karen Caldwell - Lynne O'neill
3rd Geoff Cowan - Faith Hutchinson 6th Christine Morrison - Rodney Miles
Contributed by Robert Carless
Mackay junior mountain biker Max Teague produced a strong start to his national season at the AusCycling XCO National Series – Round 1 & 2 in Mt Crosby, coming away with a 2nd place on Saturday and a 3rd place on Sunday in the U15 Men’s category.
Racing took place in hot, humid conditions on a steep and technical course. The U15 riders started just behind the U17 field, which led to a chaotic opening climb when several of the U17 front riders slipped out. The crash caused a chain reaction through the bunch, leaving Max and others off their bikes and forced to run the first couple of hills to get back into the race.
Despite the disrupted start, Max worked his way through the field on Saturday and positioned himself well for the final straight. He finished with a close, hard-fought sprint to take 2nd place.
Storms on Sunday morning left the course muddy and slippery. Max got away cleanly at the start but, like many riders, struggled with the heat as the race went on. He held his pace and managed to secure 3rd place to round out a consistent weekend.
Max’s father, Alan, said it was one of the tougher race weekends Max has faced, with the heat, humidity, and technical course all adding to the challenge. He said Max handled the chaos on the first climb well and was happy with how he sprinted for second on Saturday, and how he pushed through difficult conditions on Sunday to take third. Max is now looking ahead to Rounds 3 and 4 in Bendigo in three weeks’ time.
Mackay Cycles owner and sponsor Kyle Marwood said Max showed resilience across both rounds and handled the conditions with maturity. He said the ability to reset after the opening crash and still finish on the podium both days shows strong development and a good foundation for the rest of the season.
Contributed by Kyle Marwood
Mackay junior mountain biker Max Teague opened his national season with impressive consistency, securing 2nd and 3rd place finishes in challenging conditions at the AusCycling XCO National Series in Mt Crosby. Photos supplied
President's Award to Charlie Payne for 62 years hard work and dedication to our sport. Player of the Year awarded to Remy Zhan and Junior Player of the Year awarded to Logan Brown.
Mackay Closed Tuesday Morning: Averal Hodges Memorial Division 1 Singles Winner Andrea Nicholson, Runner Up Allan Robins. Division 1 Doubles Winners Tony Bowman and Kevin Abbott, Runner Up George Camilleri and Coral Morgan. Carrie Hills Trophy Division 2 Winner Josie Davis, Runner Up John Hamelink.
Division 2 Doubles Winners Gloria Vella and Gerry Synnott, Runners Up Louise Gould and Sharon Muller. Rosie Dittman Trophy Division 3 Singles Winner Sharon Muller, Runner Up Allison Day.
Jan Meng Memorial Doubles Winners Gerry Synnott and Tony Bowman, Runners Up Andrea Nicholson and Lawrie Bradshaw.
Mackay Closed Juniors: Under 11 Mixed Singles Winner Remy Zhan, Runner Up Mainak Dodiya. Under 13 Boys Singles Winner Remy Zhan, Runner Up Logan Brown. Under 15 Boys Singles Winner Trent Day, Runner Up Logan Brown. Under 18 Mixed Singles Winner Lily Boland, Runner Up Trent Day. Junior Mixed Doubles Winners Lily Boland and Remy Zhan, Runners Up Trent Day and Ariah Haupapa.
Mackay Closed Veterans: LADIES SECTION Over 30/40 Singles Winner Emma Widdup, Runner Up Andrea Nicholson, Over 50 Singles Winner Emma Widdup, Runner Up Anne Sheridan, Over 60 Singles Winner Anne Sheridan, Runner Up Donna Abbott, Over 70 Winner Judy Zahn, Runner Up Pam Joyce, Over 80 Winner Pam Joyce, Runner Up Coral Morgan. MEN'S SECTION Over 30 Winner Goncalo Serra-Gageiro, Runner Up Mick Ruhl, Over 40 Winner Mick Ruhl, Runner Up Steven Whiting, Over 50 Winner Steven Whiting, Runner Up Graeme Walker, Over 60 Winner Graeme Walker, Runner Up Geoff Denman, Over 70 Winner Ian McKay, Runner Up Tony Bowman, Combined Veterans Doubles Winners Steven Whiting and Josie Davis, Runners Up Emma Widdup and Cheryl Pearson.
Mackay Closed: Open Ladies Singles Roy McLean Winner Emma Widdup, Runner Up Anne Sheridan, Men's Singles Jack Cooney Memorial Trophy Winner Goncalo Serra-Gageiro, Runner Up Mick Ruhl. Ladies Open Doubles Winners Emma Widdup and Lily Boland, Runners Up Anne Sheridan and Janice Kent, Men's Open Doubles Winners Goncalo Serra-Gageiro and Mick Ruhl, Runners Up Steven Whiting and Jacob Whelan, Mixed Open Doubles Winners Steven Whiting and Emma Widdup, Runners Up Mick Ruhl and Andrea Nicholson.
Division 2 Ladies Singles Christine Moohin Trophy Winner Donna Abbott, Runner Up Andrea Nicholson, Men's Singles Roy McLean Trophy Winner Ian McKay, Runner Up Mark Sleeman. Division 2 Doubles Winners Janice Kent and Donna Abbott, Runners Up Graeme Walker and Allan Edwards. Division 3 Combined Singles K & D Abbott Trophy Winner Judy Zahn, Runner Up Liz Burton. Division 3 Doubles Winners Pam Joyce and Kevin Abbott, Logan Brown and Liz Burton. Veterans Representatives Allan Edwards, Andrea Nicholson, Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Graeme Walker, Anne Sheridan, Noreen Frederickson, Vince Boeske and Daniel Warfield.
Contributed by Andrea Nicholson
photos supplied
Charlie Payne first picked up a table tennis bat at the age of nine. This year, after an incredible 62 years of service to the sport, he quietly stepped away from the game—but not from the community he helped shape.
Charlie has been at the heart of the Mackay Table Tennis Association for decades. He served in key leadership roles, including President and Secretary, and long before computers handled tournament draws, Charlie created them manually for major events such as the Mackay Open and Closed.
Beyond administration, Charlie brought the game to life through words. With a background as Sports Editor at the Daily Mercury, his reports didn’t just share scores—they captured the drama, excitement, and human moments behind each match. Whether published in print or later on Facebook, Charlie’s stories made the action leap off the page, enabling readers to visualise each rally with vivid clarity.
Photography became another of Charlie’s lasting contributions. Often seen on the sidelines with camera in hand, he quietly documented thousands of matches, capturing candid moments and player milestones that are now treasured memories within the club.
Charlie’s dedication extended beyond the court. He volunteered at bingo nights for many years and was always ready to lend a hand. His wife Rhonda recalls their first wedding anniversary being spent at a Table Tennis Committee meeting on 10 November 1980—an example of the commitment Charlie gave to the sport.
In his playing days, Charlie travelled widely, competing in Cairns, Townsville, Ayr, Rockhampton and Bundaberg. He earned his State Umpire Accreditation and, true to his generous nature, never declined a hit—regardless of a player’s level. That openness left a lasting impression on generations of players.
Family was central to Charlie’s journey in the sport. In 1985, he encouraged his niece Andrea to attend a junior table tennis camp, soon followed by her brother Mark.
“We’ve had great family battles over the years—what we called the ‘Payne Family War’,” Andrea says.
“Mark and I are so proud of Uncle Charlie. He’s supported us and so many others through his encouragement and quiet leadership.”
Former President Rosie Dittman said, “Whether it was a cheeky forehand or a perfectly timed photo, Charlie made the sport better for all of us.
“Thanks for the memories, the matches, and the moments you helped capture.”
Charlie Payne’s contributions—on the court, behind the lens, and through his words—have helped shape Mackay Table Tennis into one of Queensland’s most respected associations.
photos supplied
RUNNING
Congratulations to all participants in the fourth event of the Shawn’s Splash n Dash Off-Season Social Biathlon Series for 2025/2026. A big thank you goes to Jim Ford for once again coordinating the series, and to Adam Knezevic for keeping everyone cool with those all-important Zooper Doopers.
Despite the very warm conditions, participants showed great awareness and paced themselves sensibly. Next Sunday marks the halfway point of the series, followed by a full break throughout December. Events will resume in January 2026 to complete the program.
The biathlon series is free to join; however, participants are reminded to pay the $5 entry fee at the pool kiosk before accessing the track and pool facilities. A gold coin donation is also appreciated to help cover the cost of the Zooper Doopers.
See you all again very soon!
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Several participants enjoying the 2025/2026 Shawn’s Summer Social Splash n Dash Series post event cool down and zooper doopers!
4227 – Adam Knezevic leads in the initial stages of the track portion of Shawn’s Splash n Dash Biathlon Series.
4233 – Husband of the Year, Craig Joynson sprays water and a bit of light relief in the humid conditions on his wife, Natasha.
Andrew Short (left), Jo Hughes (centre) and Judy Zahn (right) in fine form as they easily tackle the track in the very humid conditions.
4278 – Stephen Oberg leads runners as the direction was reversed for the 2nd part of the track section.
4247 – Jose Short lets the photographer know how she’s feeling but with a big smile!
4323 – Alana Knezevic (right) sets a good pace with fellow runner, Russell Holmes.
4250 – Carmel Mahon returning to some of her previous good form after a recent illness.
4218 - Len Howarth (right) encourages granddaughter Cloe (left) before she heads out onto the 30 minute track session.
4263 – Andrew Flanagan in good pace seeking as many laps as he can in the 30 minutes track session. Photos supplied
Sunset Bay Outriggers have recently returned from the Aocra National Sprint Titles held on the Gold Coast, competing against Australia's best outrigger crews with age divisions ranging from U12 to over 80yrs of age, in V12, 500m, 1000m and 1500m events over 3 days. With this being a first time attendance for many of the Sunset paddlers to a National event, the nerves were on high alert but once the butterflies were gone the crews went to another level of competition.
Sunset Bay Master 40+men and Golden 60+ men crews have qualified to be invited to compete against the worlds best paddlers in 2026, in V12, 500m and 1000m.
The club received the following medals:
The Senior Master women 50+ also qualified for the V12 and will await to see if any invitation is extended to the crew for other races.
This crew has bragging rights over the 2 men crews for a faster time in the V12 and will be content with this for quiet awhile.
Numerous Sunset Bay crews made finals and finished in the top 10 of Australia, all coaches are very proud of the club efforts that have definitely put Mackay and the club on the map, especially with the new club uniform looking so flash.
The Sunset Bay outriggers are located at Eimeo Beach and will be hosting 'Come and Try' days in the off season, follow Sunset Bay Outrigger Club on Facebook.
Contributed by Renee Martin
Sunset Bay Outriggers have made waves on the national stage, qualifying multiple crews for the 2026 World Sprint Titles in Singapore after a standout medal-winning performance at the Aocra National Sprint Titles. Photos supplied
BRIDGE
Mackay Contract Bridge Results
Sunday was the first week of the Novice Pairs Championships (<100 MP’s) with the same partner for both weeks. This is a Red point event. It is amazing to see so many players who only finished lessons earlier this year participate in the event. Well done to all, for your determination and love for the game. Bridge is such a wonderful game and it really gets you in. International Men’s Day was celebrated at the club last week as well.
Weekly Results
Monday 17 November Week 22 of 25 NWP 8 Table Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Jennifer Cameron / Diane Morgan
2nd Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek 2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd Shirley Worland / Anne Lutz 3rd Andrew Canavan / Geoffrey Patterson
Tuesday Evening 18 November 2025 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Helen Van den Broek 2nd Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
3rd Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy 4th Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
Wednesday 19 November 2025 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Eric Goodchild 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Laura Howland / Janelle Conroy 3rd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
4th Joy Hold / Diane Cox 4th Victor Mason / John Ludkin
5th Josie Cowley / Barbara Tait 5th Mick King / John McGee
Thursday Evening 20 November 2025 – 4 Tables One Winner – Green Points
1st Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott 2nd Jan Harris / Patricia Garner
Friday 21 November 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Eric Goodchild / Diane Morgan
2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
3rd Terry Sheedy Janelle Conroy 3rd Lynne O’Neill / Rowland / Taylor
Saturday 22 November 2025 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown 1st Martin Pearce / Patricia Garner
2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 2nd Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd Annie Lynch / Diane Stokes 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
4th Geoff Taylor / Margaret Lane 4th Terry Sheedy / Geoffrey Patterson
Sunday 23 November Novice Pairs Week 1 of 2 – 6 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Faith Hutchinson / Geoff Taylor 1st Lynne O’Neill / Karn Caldwell
2nd Joy Hold / Gillian McCallum 2nd Sandy Patterson / Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd Rodney Miles / Christine Morrison 3rd Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller
Contributed by Joy Block
First year players competing in Novice Pairs Championship Christine, Glen and Joy
Celebrating International Men’s Day at Bridge. Photos supplied
It has been an extraordinarily busy and successful month for students and staff at Mackay Christian College, with the school celebrating a wave of sporting achievements across several age groups. From the netball courts to the hockey field and rugby pitches, students have showcased exceptional skill, determination and sportsmanship.
Mackenzie Jackson has had a remarkable season, being awarded Most Consistent for the Magpies Netball Club. She was then nominated for Best and Fairest by the Mackay Netball Association for her age and division—an honour she went on to win, being named Best and Fairest player for the 14D division.
Impressive accomplishments also continued in hockey, with 11-year-old Fred Steidl selected as a Shadow Player (Goal Keeper) for the Queensland Hockey U14 Boys Indoor Team. This achievement is especially significant as Fred competed against players up to three years older.
In rugby, congratulations go to Brielle Herrington, Shantae Broome-Waria and Anahera Schaefer, who were undefeated in the U13 Mackay Rugby 7s held across the weekend of the 8th and 9th of November at the Nyrie Contor Cup.
The celebrations continued at the Mackay District School Sports (MDSS) Awards on the 17th of November where Frederick Steindl was one of three nominees for the 10–12 Boys Hockey category and was awarded the Most Outstanding Nominee.
In netball, Ainslee Procter made the Mackay Netball Association’s Mackay Monarchs Junior State Age 13s Squad of 24 for 2026. She also received the 12yrs Netball award at the MDSS Awards.
Rounding out the achievements, Viliame Tuibua was honoured with the Touch Football Sportsman of the Year and the Doug Knight Award for leadership and team character at the MDSS Awards.
It has indeed been a month packed with achievement, and the school community is celebrating the dedication and hard work of all involved!
Mackenzie Jackson was awarded most consistent for the Magpies Netball Club (Photo Supplied)
Fred Steidl (bottom left corner) was selected as shadow player for the Queensland Hocky U14 Boys Indoor Team (Photo Supplied)
Brielle Herrington, Shantae Broome-Waria and Anahera Schaefer were undefeated on the weekend in the U13 Mackay Rugby 7s (Photo Supplied)
Frederick Steindl was awarded MDSS' Most Outstanding Nominee in the 10-12yrs Boys Hockey (Photo Supplied)
Ainslee Procter was awarded the MDSS 12yrs Netball Award (Photo Supplied)
Viliame Tuibua was awarded the MDSS Touch Football Sportsman of the Year Award (Photo Supplied)
It started with a leisurely Sunday morning social swim at Teemburra Dam (near Pinnacle) and built to a crescendo of medals and PB’s (personal bests) at the Masters Swimming Queensland (MSQ) State Championships the following week!
It was a sultry early morning at Teemburra Dam where 2 kayakers, a couple of observers and 6 swimmers enjoyed a still water swim to welcome in November, refuelling with breakfast at Melba House.
Eight swimmers and one volunteer supporter travelled to Brisbane for the MSQ Masters State Championships held over 3 days early November. 22 teams from Queensland, interstate and overseas fielded 220 competitors.
The Sinkers’ team consisted of President Rachel Lee, Secretary Megan Taylor, Nigel Dalton, Pierre Craven, Sue Dalton, Dee McMurtrie, Lesley Thorpe and Sue McBride with volunteer Gerri Kissner.
A special treat of a superb dinner and tour of Parliament House hosted by MP for Mackay Nigel Dalton after the first day of competition, provided the inspiration and fuel to achieve 64 medals, 26 of which were GOLD! Along with the metal, 30 PB’s were achieved with this success being attributed to Coach Millie from DMR Leisure at the Mackay Memorial pool.
That wasn’t the end of the Sinkers’ efforts and achievements!
Pierre, who had won 8 Gold with 3 PB’s, followed this up with a 2nd place in his age group at the MSQ 3km open water swim at Raby Bay the next day. The following weekend he and 18 other Sinkers competed in the Hamilton Island Endurance Series, consisting of a 750m and 2km ocean swim and Triathlon.
Sinkers Geoff Hamilton, Paul Arvidson and Sandy Tobin won Gold in their age groups for the 750m ocean swim. Bronze was won by Jenny Smith, Nigel Dalton and Pierre Craven in the 2km swim
Sinkers Masters Swimming Club isn’t just for swimmers. It is all inclusive with non-swimmers, those learning to swim again and a few using the water to recover from injury as well as some serious competitors. The club holds regular social events with a morning tea held after each Saturday morning session at the DMR Memorial Pool. For more information, please call Megan on 0439980103
Contributed by Gerri Kissner
The Sinkers Masters swimmers have gone from tranquil dam swims to state-level triumphs, racking up medals, PBs, and endurance achievements across Queensland. Photos supplied
Kick off your Australia Day with a splash… literally! Mackay Tri Club is inviting the whole community to celebrate fitness, fun, and camaraderie at its free Australia Day Aquathlon on January 26, 2026, at the Pioneer Swim Centre.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a weekend warrior, or just looking for a fun way to get active with the family, this event is for you!
Supported by Mackay Regional Council and Triple M Mackay and Whitsundays, this Aquathlon is the only regional Queensland event to be featured in the NADC annual report, highlighting its significance and community impact. The focus is on enjoyment rather than competition, giving participants the chance to experience the thrill of racing, connect with friends and neighbours, and make this Australia Day one to remember.
Participants can take part solo or in teams of two across categories including Mini Kids (swim 100m, run 500m), Enticer (run 2.5km, swim 300m), and Swim Run (2.5km, swim 300m, run 2.5km, swim 300m)
Mackay Tri Club President Stephanie Allen said, “The Aquathlon offers an opportunity for people of all ages and abilities to come together, celebrate our country, and take part in a fun, healthy, and memorable event.”
After the races, participants can enjoy a free BBQ, rounding off a morning of activity with great food and community spirit. The event also celebrates 39 years of Mackay Tri Club’s commitment to providing high-quality triathlon and multisport experiences across the region.
This Australia Day, whether you’re racing, cheering, or just soaking up the Aussie atmosphere, Mackay Tri Club’s Aquathlon promises a morning full of fitness, smiles, and memories for the whole family.
Registration is easy, just scan the QR code or visit www.mackaytriclub.com.au.
Entry is free, but spots are limited, so get in early!
Event Details:
What: Mackay Tri Club’s Australia Day Aquathlon
When: Sunday, 26 January 2026, from 6:00am
Where: Pioneer Swim Centre, Mackay
Entry: Free, plus free BBQ after the event
BRIDGE
The CQ Del Ryan Teams Congress, Red Point event, was played over the weekend. Sixteen teams attended from Townsville, Bowen, Rockhampton, Yeppoon and Mackay. The event is named after Del Ryan, who was a long-time player at the bridge club, and now her daughter Janet continues the tradition. Del’s granddaughter Courtney, who is a principal of North Marine in Cairns, is a supporter of the event.
Janet’s team came runner-up in Section A. Winners of Section A were Team Holewa from Mackay. Winners and runners-up of Section B were Team Bishop from Townsville and Team Pickering, a mixture of Townsville and Mackay players. Janet and her partner Diane Morgan, along with Geoff Taylor and Ken Seaniger, were winners of the Walkins.
Weekly Results
Tuesday Evening 11 November 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy 2nd Terry Sheedy / Helen Van den Broek
Wednesday 12 November 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
Section A
N/S E/W
1st Sue Mayer-Miller / Martin Pearce 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen
Section B
N/S E/W
1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Christine Nice
Thursday Evening 13 November 2025 - 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott 1st Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 2nd Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers
Friday 14 November 2025 – 11 Table Mitchell CQ Congress Walk ins Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Cowan / Ken Seaniger 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 November 2025 – CQ Del Ryan Teams Red Points
Division A
Team Players
1st Holewa Diane Holewa, Max Holewa, David Ting, Ming Ting, Eric Goodchild
2nd Hansen Diane Morgan, Janet Hansen, Janelle Conroy, Terry Sheedy
Division B
Team Players
1st Bishop Sam Bishop, Ann Smith, Nina Doyle, Ian Leach
2nd Pickering Bill Pickering, Anne Lutz, Sandy Patterson, Mary Rose Ramsden
Contributed by Joy Block
Janet presenting A winners Max, Diane, David, Ming & Eric
B runners up Mary Rose, Sandy, Anne, Bill & Janet
A runners up Janet, Diane, Terry & Janelle
B winners Team Bishop
Walkin Winners Janet, Diane, Presenter Lorna, Ken & Geoff. Photos supplied
Division 1 – Eagles (Emma Widdup, Syed Aminul Hossain, Josh Brown) defeated Lily (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDeKaa) 8-3, Josh won a tight 5 Sets over Robbie 11-7.
Jaguar (Jacob Whelan, Anne Sheridan, Neil Brown) defeated Barra (Barry Patterson, Lee Brake, Andrea Nicholson) 7-4. Barry made a massive come back in 5 Sets against Jacob, with Barry winning 11-9.
Gold (Goncalo Serra, Graham Brake, Geoff Denman) defeated Fish (Steven Whiting, Trent Day, Allan Allan Edwards) 6-5 with Steve winning a close 5 Sets against Graham 11-6.
Division 2 – Alpha (Allan Robins, Samuel Whelan, Peter Goodson) defeated Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Ian McKay, Rymer Tabulo) 6-5 with Allan coming back to win 11-5 in 5th Set against Mark
Drongos (Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight, Yilin Jiang) defeated Teddy (George Camilleri, David Symons, Rachel Fiesta) 10-1. George and David won a big 5 Sets over Delma and Yilin 11-4.
Division 3 – Marlin (Mark Stem, Val Austin, Melanie Theodore) defeated Nova Smashers (Craig VanDeKaa, Remy Zhan, Nate Clark) 6-5, Remy had a great win over Val 11-2 in 5 Sets.
Tibhar (Tiffany Camilleri, Liz Burton, Ollie Hamelink) defeated Sigma (Rod Hamelink, Simon Hogan, Daryl Ross) 8-3, Tiffany and Liz won a great 5 Set match against Simon and Daryl 11-8.
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1 – Rap Drive (Andrea Nicholson, Doug Dungavell, John McGee) def. Rock Rally (Pam Joyce, Kevin Abbott) 9-3 with John having a great win in 5 Sets over Kevin 11-5.
Bass Bump (Donna Abbott, Judy Zahn, Peter Taber) def. Jazz Live (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) 7-5 with Veronica having a great win over Peter T 11-6 in 5 Sets.
Drum Beat (Steve Mathieson, Allan Robins) drew with Jump Up (Delma Knight, Branko Vucurovic, Virginia Clayton) 6-6. Steve had a great match with Virginia with Steve winning 11-6 in 5 Sets.
Division 2 – Pixal Paddles (Marie Taylor, Ken Best, Frank Caruana) def. Code Crackers (Josie Davis, John Hamelink, Pam Kuene) 9-3, Marie won against Josie 11-8 in 5 Sets.
Byte Bouncers (Helen Ware, Gloria Vella, Robyn Bushell) def. Nano Nets (Coral Morgan, Kim Daffy, Ian Dodds) 7-5, Kim won in 5 Sets against Helen 11-9.
Division 3 – Bat Serves (David Muir, Janelle Kuene, Kim Challendar) def. Spider Smashers (Sharon Muller, Laurie Bradshaw, Trish Zamparutti) 7-5 with Trish having a close win over Janelle 11-9 in 5 Sets.
Iron Rallies (Gerry Synnott, Thelma Caruana, Glenda Brooks) def. Captain Spins (Sally Muir, Allison Day, Carmel Cristaldi) 9-3 with Sally having a great win over Gerry 11-9 in the 5th Set.
Barry Patterson
Veronica Shepherd. Photos supplied
RUNNING
The second event in the 2025/2026 Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series got off to a great start on Sunday, with milder temperatures making for pleasant conditions on the run course before competitors hit the pool for the final leg.
Around 30 runners, swimmers, and supporters turned out to enjoy the relaxed, social atmosphere of the series, now in its second season as a biathlon. The event evolved from the long-running Shawn’s Summer Series, which was a running-only event for nearly ten years, and another decade before that under various formats.
Mackay Road Runners Club Captain and Race Director Jim Ford, who leads the off-season series, has been a driving force behind its success. Jim is known for his inclusive approach, ensuring people of all ages and abilities can take part and enjoy the challenge.
The series uses a handicap points system, based on the number of laps each participant completes on the track and in the pool within the allocated time, with bonus points awarded for older age categories.
The Splash n Dash continues every Sunday in November and again throughout January 2026, starting at 4.30pm at the Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Complex.
Everyone is welcome, no need to be part of a club, just arrive at 4.20pm for the briefing and have a go. The event is free to enter, with a $5 pool entry fee payable at the kiosk for use of the world-class, internationally accredited facilities.
Contributed by Janelle Tisle
Len Howarth (centre) with his beautiful relatives, granddaughter, Chloe (left) and daughter, Rebecca.
Approximately thirty runners, swimmers and supporters enjoyed the ARC (Aquatic & Recreational Complex) track and pool facilities.
Andew Short enjoying the track reversal concept for half of the track 30 minute track session.
Talented junior TriActiv8 triathlete, Archer Flanagan sizzled over the track portion of the Biathlon event.
Jose Short from the TriAtiv8 stable of athletes cruises the track section.
Steve Oberg cooling off from the run ready for the pool section starter’s whistle.
Clancy (left) and Mum Emily enjoying the Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series. Photos supplied
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club recently hosted the 35th annual North Australian Titles, which saw over 1000+ lifesavers, water safety, carnival officials and spectators descend on Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach. The Mackay hosts did exceedingly well in the region, beating fellow clubs Eimeo and Sarina, as well as outperforming large clubs from around the state.
The club had some outstanding achievements placing 5th overall, with strong performances in marquee events such as the Lifesaver relay, All Age relay and Taplin relay’s.
Mackay SLSC Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant said, “The club is very proud of our small but strong competition group, from the nippers in U11’s to our masters.
“To see our competitors take on the best of the best in regional Qld and achieve some great results, is a credit to the culture and commitment we have at our club. The feedback I have received from visiting clubs is that they love coming here and competing at one of the best beaches in Queensland.
“ I would just like to thank all the clubs that made the effort and travelled to Mackay for the Nth Aussies, we hope to see you next year!”
“It was very pleasing to see Kody Amos (U13), Hayden Tobin (U14), Isabella Grant & Cadence McKinnon (U15), Zara Richardson and Nate McKinnon (U17) selected for the Qld Country team based on their outstanding results.” Mr Grant said.
“It’s a fantastic result to place with the best of the best of Northern Australia and regional Qld. The club is going from strength to strength, and we are now preparing our lifesavers for Branch Titles at Eimeo in a few weeks”.
Contributed by Josh Grant
Photo credit: Leah McLean Photography
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The long awaited final of the Mixed Fours was played at the club on Friday Afternoon 7th Nov 2025.
What promised to be a very intense and well played out final met all expectations. The team ofDave McKendry, Carmel Bell, Ken Rix and Pam Spencer came out flying with a determined game plan, to win and they certainly carried that throughout the entire game. A massive congratulations go to them as this years Mixed Fours winners.
Runners up Chris Banney, Les McDermott, Bev Svenson and Val dePinto were gracious in defeat, meeting a better team on the day.
Congratulations to all the teams who played in this wonderful event, better luck in 2026
Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine
Winners of the Mixed Fours (L) Dave McKendry, Carmel Bell, Ken Rix and Pam Spencer
Winners and runners up (L) Bev Svenson, Val DePinto,Les McDermott, Chris Banney, Dave McKendry, Carmel Bell, Pam Spencer, Ken Rix. Photos supplied
Swing Into Summer with the new social cricket competition that’s all about fun, friends, and fitness!
Never played? No worries! This is a stress-free, soft-ball game for women of all ages and abilities where everyone gets a go and no one's out! It’s a perfect opportunity to get a workplace team together for a bit of fun, while looking after staff moral and wellbeing.
The Details:
Starts: Monday, 17th November 2025, 4 weeks only
Game Time: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM (Quick 60-90 min games!)
Where: Harrup Park (Mackay Cricket)
Teams: Clubs & Business Teams (8 players per side - Ages 15+)
All equipment provided!
Get ready for smiles, new skills, and great mates! Nominate your team now at https://bit.ly/WomensSocialSmashTeamNomination2025
For more information contact Matt Brown email sportsops@harruppark.com.au
Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results - 28th October 2025
Evening Fixtures
Division 1: Eagles (Emma Widdup, Josh Brown) def Barra (Barry Patterson, Andrea Nicholson, Lee Brake) 6-5 with Emma and Josh making a awesome come back from 2 sets down to win 11-8 in 5th Set over Andrea and Graham D.
Fish (Steve Whiting, Trent Day, Graeme Walker) def Jaguar (Anne Sheridan, Geoff Cowan, Neil Brown) 8-3. Graeme W and Geoff had a tough battle with the leads changing all the time with Graeme winning in the 5th Set, 11-8.
Gold (Goncalo Serra, Geoff Denman, Graham Brake) def Lily (Allan Edwards, Will VanDeKaa, Robbie Richards) 8-3 with Allan winning a tough 5 Set match 12-10 against Graham B.
Division 2: Teddy (George Camilleri, Tony Bowman) def Alpha (Allan Robins, Peter Goodson) 5-4, with no 5 Set matches Tony and George defeated Allan and Peter 11-6 in 4th Set.
Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Ian McKay) def Drongos (Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight) 4-1 with Mark and Duncan having a tight 5 Set match, Mark winning 11-8.
Division 3: Nova Smashers (Craig VanDeKaa, Noreen Frederickson, Nate Clark) def Sigma (Logan Brown, Rod Hamelink) 11-0 with the juniors battling it out Nate and Logan always have a close match, this time Nate won 11-8 in 4th Set.
Tibhar (Tiffany Camilleri, Liz Burton, Ollie Hamelink) def Marlin (Mark Stam, Val Austin, Melanie Theodore) 9-2, Liz came back against Val to win 11-4 in the 5th Set.
Morning Fixtures
Division 1: Jazz Live (George Camilleri, Peter Goodson, Veronica Shepherd) def Rap Drive (Andrea Nicholson, Doug Dungavell, John McGee) 7-5 with Andrea defeated George 11-8 in a very close 5 Sets.
Jump Up (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton) def Bass Bump (Donna Abbott, Judy Zahn) 8-4 with no 5 Set matches Donna came out on top against Delma 11-7 in 4 Sets.
Rock Rally (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Kevin Abbott) def Drum Beat (Allan Robins, Steve Mathieson) 8-4 with Pam winning against Steve 11-8 in 4th Set.
Division 2: Pixel Paddles (Marie Taylor, Louise Gould, Frank Caruana) def Byte Bouncers (Helen Ware, Gloria Vella, Robyn Bushell) 7-5 with Lousie and Robyn having a tough battle, Lousie won 11-9 in 5th Set.
Nano Nets (Ken Best, Kim Duffy, Ian Dodds) drew level with Code Crackers (Josie Davis, John Hamelink, Pam Keune) 6-6, Pam defeated Ken 12-10 in the 5th Set.
Division 3: Bat Serves (Kim Challendar, David Muir, Janelle Keune) def Captain Spins (Sally Muir, Allison Day) 9-3. David had close finish with Sally, coming out on top 13-11 in 5th Set.
Iron Rallies (Gerry Synnott, Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes) def Spider Smashers (Sharon Muller, Laurie Bradshaw, Trish Zamparutti) 7-5. There was a close doubles between Madge and Glenda defeated Laurie and Trish winning 11-9 in 5th Set.
Contributed by Andrea Nicholson
Mark Sleeman
Graeme Walker. Photos supplied
As the Bridge year gets closer to the end of the year, the Mackay Bridge Club gets very busy. Melbourne Cup Day saw Fifty-Eight players celebrate the “Race that Stops the Nation” with great Bridge, Sweeps, Fashions on the Field and a magnificent Lunch. Great fun was had by all.
The weekend was the third week of the Presidents Trophy, with players playing with a different partner each week to be eligible for the Trophy. Forty-Six players vied for the Presidents Trophy with Joy Robinson taking out the prize. Joy turned 100 years of age this Wednesday, so it just goes to prove you are never too old or too young to play bridge.
Joy had never played cards when she first started playing bridge. She is an amazing lady, player, and very well-deserved winner.
Weekly Results
Tuesday 4 November 2025 – Melbourne Cup Day - Green Points
N/S Section A E/W
1st Eric Goodchild / David King 1st Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Christine Fitzpatrick / Ian Vary
N/S Section B E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Mick King 1st Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
2nd Shirley Worland / Diane Stokes 2nd Lynne O’Neill / Laura Howland
Wednesday 5 November 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Ming Ting / David Ting 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Geoff Taylor / Karen Caldwell
3rd John McGee / Mick King 3rd Terry Sheedy / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th Susan Wright / Bob Ellis 4th Nancy Martin / Janine Rodgers
Thursday Evening 6 November 2025 - 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers 2nd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott
Friday 7 November 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 1st Victor Mason / Josie Cowley
2nd Joy Robinson / Jewel Schmidt 2nd Geoff Cowan / Mick King
3rd Ming Ting / David Ting 3rd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
Saturday 8 November 2025 – Mitchell Green Points
N/S Section A - 6 Table E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
N/S Section B – 7 Table E/W
1st Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes 1st Geoff Cowan / Joy Block
2nd Janine Rodgers / Marilin Robins 2nd Susan Ross / Karen Caldwell
Saturday 8 November 2025 - Presidents Trophy Week 3 of 3 Red Points
1st Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
3rd Geoff Cowan / Joy Block 4th David Ting / Eric Goodchild
Saturday 8 November 2025 - Presidents Trophy Final - Red Points
1st Joy Robinson 2nd Geoff Taylor 3rd Marilin Robins 4th Ken Seaniger
5th Julie O’Neill 6th Ann Whitmore 7th Terry Seedy 8th Janine Rodgers
9th Helen V. D. Broek 10th Faye Wright 11th Annie Lynch 12th Diane Stokes
Contributed by Joy Block
Joy Robinson, with playing partners left to right: Terry, Ken & Geoff
Presidents Trophy Winner Joy Robinson. Photos supplied
Mackay Road Runners held their 2025 Annual Presentation Night, a celebration of the club’s achievements that rivalled any award ceremony. Trophies and thank-you gifts were presented throughout the evening, recognising the dedication of members, volunteers, and sponsors.
Club President Paul Tilse acknowledged the committee and volunteers for their efforts in making the 2025 season a success. He also thanked the club’s many loyal sponsors and supporters, including Life Members Merv and Wendy Shields of M-Test Mackay, who have supported the club since its inception in 1976.
Carolyn Mapes and Alan Zamparutti coordinated the event at North Mackay Bowls Club, providing a fun introduction featuring several ‘Who Am I?’ quiz questions. Tables were decorated with running-themed items, and attendees enjoyed a popular selection of chocolates and Turkish Delights.
Major awards for 2025 were presented by Life Members Wendy and Merv Shields, Jim Ford, and Judy Zahn in the absence of Club Patron Col Meng:
• Junior Female & Male Club Champions: Lily Leven & Max Miles
• Open Female & Male Club Champions: Alana Knezevic & Mick Vivian
• Overall Handicap Points Champion: Ashley Miles
• The Grove 10k Handicap Champion: Justin Rule
• Forsyth’s Accounting Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield Champions: Alana Knezevic & Toby Rule
• Spine Care Chiropractic Benita Willis 10km Handicap Champion: Max Miles
• M-Test Open King & Queen of the Mountain: Alana Knezevic & Jared Havemann (non-member)
• Laura Pettifer & Podiatry Mackay Junior King & Queen of the Mountain: Lily Leven & Toby Rule
• Col & Rhonda Meng Club Person of the Year: Len Howarth
• Most Supportive: Andrew Short
• Most Improved: Gail Mackie
• Encouragement Award: Bianca Miles
• MAD Fitness Lucky Door Prize: Hughie Bishop
Committee members and volunteers were also recognised for their dedication, including Life Members Agnes Farmer, Wendy and Merv Shields, Tim Magoffin, Paul and Janelle Tilse, Andrew Short, and others who hosted events from their homes.
Looking ahead, the first event in the Shawn’s Splash & Dash Summer Series is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at the Aquatic and Recreational Complex (ARC). Club Captain and Life Member Jim Ford will guide participants through 30 minutes on the track followed by 30 minutes in the pool. Prizes will be awarded for the most laps completed in each age category. While the event is free to join, entry to the ARC facility covers access to the pool and track. All ages and abilities are welcome.
The Mackay Road Runners Annual General Meeting will be held Monday 12th January, 5:30 PM, North Qld Bulk Ports Meeting Rooms, Mackay Marina
Members and community supporters are encouraged to attend or share feedback with the committee if unable to make it.
For more updates and news from the Mackay Road Runners, watch this space.
2025 Committee congratulated on a great year with beautiful roses by Wendy Shields (Life Member) left to right) standing:- Paul Tilse (President), Len Howarth (Vice-President), Jo Hughes (Merchandiser), Tim Magoffin (Treasurer), Brendan Bishop (2024 President), Andrew Short (Asset Co-ordination, course setup/packdown); kneeling in front:- Jim Ford (Club Captain), Julie Whibley (Secretary) and Janelle Tilse (Publicity Officer.) Photos supplied
Sunset Bay had a jammed pack weekend 24/25th Oct with a fun night of Trivia for fundraising at Eimeo Surf club, followed the next day by the club AGM.
Trivia saw more of a head to head competitive side of the outrigger community and locals of Eimeo Beach were welcomed.
Thank you to the sponsors of the evening- Pin- Point Property; Magpie Sports Club, Mount Pleasant Brumby's and MAK Financial Advisors, with this support approx $1300 was raised for our paddlers heading to National Sprint Titles.
The next day Sunset Bay club members then welcomed new Committee members Justin Davies - President, Danette (Netty) Pearson - Secretary, Petina Kidd- Registrar, Colleen Halyes and Kim Alloway - general committee and with 6 committee members remaining in their roles for the upcoming 2026 season.
Outgoing President Bel Quakawoot was praised for her 'above and beyond' contribution to Sunset Bay for the past 2yrs and has left the committee in good stead.
Bel was able to present the club prestigious awards of life membership to Petina Kidd - a long standing and active member of Sunset Bay Outriggers.
Club person of the year was presented to Stephen James for his quiet achiever attitude in completing numerous tasks for the club.
Check Sunset Bay Outriggers on Facebook for upcoming 'Come & Try' days.
Contributed by Sunset Bay Outriggers
Sunset Bay Outriggers hosted a fundraising trivia night and AGM on 24–25 October, raising $1,300 and welcoming new committee members while presenting awards to standout club members. Photos supplied
Around forty athletes and supporters braved the heat at the Aquatic and Recreational Complex, Ooralea, for the first Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon of the 2025/2026 series.
Created by Mackay Road Runners Club Captain Jim Ford in memory of the late Shawn, a former club treasurer and champion runner who passed away from pancreatic cancer seven years ago, the series continues to celebrate his passion for fitness, community, and perseverance.
The event is open to everyone, with no club membership required. Entry to the ARC is charged by the venue, but the run itself is free, with gold coin donations welcome for post-race refreshments.
The next race will be held at 4.30pm at the ARC – participants are asked to arrive by 4.20pm for briefing.
Online registration for the 2026 Mackay Road Runners season is now open. The 2026 calendar meeting will take place on December 6 at 11am at the Seabreeze Tavern, Lamberts Beach, and the AGM will be held on January 12 at 5.30pmat the North Qld Bulk Ports meeting room, Mackay Marina. All are welcome.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Natasha, Craig and Alex Joynson enjoy the first Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series hosted by Mackay Road Runners Club Captain, Jim Ford as part of the off season informal training program.
The Flanagan family ready to tackle the Mackay Road Runners Shawn’s Summer Splash n Dash Biathlon Series.
The Hayles family supporting each other at the Mackay Road Runners off season Splash n Dash Biathlon series.
Jose Short and Phoebe Short clocking up as many laps as possible in 30 minutes before the 30 minute pool section of the Biathlon series.
Stephen Oberg and Fran March battle it out on the track section. Photos supplied
The Central Queensland Blokart Club held its annual three-day regatta at Cape Hillsborough Beach last weekend, attracting thirty competitors from across the region. Racing began on Friday under promising conditions, but the wind soon eased, leaving most sailors switching down to their 5.5 sails as speeds dropped to around 10–12kph. Despite the lighter breeze from the north-northeast, competitors made the most of the challenging conditions, with plenty of close racing and a few getting bogged in softer sand near the water’s edge.
Saturday brought similar winds early on before strengthening later in the day, prompting many to swap back to their 4m sails. Sixteen races were completed over the two main days, with plenty of tight finishes and friendly rivalry. The event concluded Sunday with a trophy presentation, nibbles, and drinks at the caravan park, celebrating another successful regatta filled with skill, camaraderie, and coastal adventure.
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Capricornia Blokart Club
Mackay’s rising sprint star Ethan Hill is proving that dedication and determination can overcome any obstacle. At just 15, he’s already represented Queensland and North Queensland at the nation’s top athletics competitions, with more milestones on the horizon.
Ethan’s impressive track record includes bronze medals in the 4x100m relay at both the 2022 School Sport Nationals in Brisbane and the 2025 Australian Athletics Championships in Perth. Later this year, he’ll again don the North Queensland colours at the Australian All Schools Championships in Melbourne.
His journey began humbly in 2021 at a school athletics carnival, where a natural burst of speed first caught attention. After an early setback with a broken wrist, Ethan returned in 2022, joined the Sleak Squad under coach Dave Lester, and quickly rose to national level within months.
The following year tested his resilience when a serious leg injury required surgery and a long recovery. Despite being told his running career might be over, Ethan persevered through rehab and was back on the track by the end of 2024, and stronger than ever. He’s since clocked impressive personal bests of 11.43 seconds (100m), 22.76 (200m), and 52.53 (400m).
Most recently, he competed in the Cathy Freeman Challenge, using the event to fine-tune his form ahead of Melbourne’s national championships in December.
While he’s proud of what he’s achieved through local training, Ethan said regional athletes would greatly benefit from more opportunities to train and develop their skills closer to home.
“It’d be good to have more help with training and more opportunities for athletes to develop,” he said.
“A lot of us don’t get to move from here, but to perform better we often have to go to the bigger cities, and that’s hard on a lot of families.”
Ethan’s success highlights the growing call from parents and coaches for more pathways to ensure the next generation of athletes can rise from regional tracks to national stadiums.
With the region producing standout talents across multiple sports, parents within the sporting community are calling for upgrades and better resources to help local competitors reach their full potential close to home.
Ethan’s sights are now set on the 2025 Australian Championships in Brisbane and the Oceania Championships in Darwin, marking the next step in an already inspiring career.
Mackay teen Ethan Hill has overcome injuries and setbacks to achieve national success in sprinting, highlighting both his talent and the need for more local sporting opportunities for regional athletes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara and Photos supplied
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The Life Members Trophy was played over two consecutive Wednesdays with the same partner to honour our past and present life members. Life members present were Barbara Tait and Monica Darley. Both ladies worked tirelessly over many years and contributed to make our club what it is today. Winners of the competition were Life Member Monica Darley and President Frances Brown.
Weekly Results
Monday 27 October 2025 - 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st David Ting / Ming Ting 2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
3rd Geoffrey Patterson / Robert Carless 4th Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
5th Jan Harris / Helen Van Den Broek 6th Shirley Worland / Joy Block
Tuesday 28 October 2025 – Australian wide Restricted Pairs (<300 MP’s) Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 1st Mick King / Ian Gaskell
2nd Jan Harris /Helen Van Den Broek 2nd Jennifer Cameron / Rosie Smith
3rd Joy Hold / Anne Lutz 3rd Susan Gibson/ Caldwell
4th Sandy Patterson / Geoff Cowan 4th Joy Block / Diane Stokes
Tuesday Evening 28 October 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris 1st Susan Gibson / Vicki Howard
2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
Wednesday 29 October 2025 – Life Members Pairs Week 2 of 2 - 9 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Diane Morgan 1st Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
2nd Monica Darley / Frances Brown 2nd Martin Pearce / Sue Mayer-Miller
3rd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 3rd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson
4th David Ting / Eric Goodchild 4th Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
Thursday Evening 30 October 2025 - 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Shirley Worland / Diane Stokes 2nd Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers
Friday 1 November 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 1st Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
2nd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 2nd Christine Nice / Gillian McCallum
3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jennifer Cameron 3rd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
Saturday 2 November 2025 – Presidents Trophy Week 2 of 3
N/S Section A E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Julie O’Neill 1st Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan
2nd Frances Brown / Alan Brown 2nd Robert Carless / Anne Lutz
N/S Section B E/W
1st Annie Lynch / Diane Stokes 1st Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
2nd Patricia Garner / Martin Pearce 2nd Janine Rodgers / Faye Wright
Contributed by Joy Block
Monica Darley & Barbara Tait
Barbara, Frances & Monica. Photos supplied
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LADIES BOWLS
The North Mackay Ladies Bowls Club hosted its final competition for 2025 on Wednesday, October 29 — the 2 Bowls Triples event.
Club-selected teams played three games of 12 ends, with one standout trio taking top honours. The winners were Donna Gordon, Carmel Bell, and Hilary Jones Rowan, while Lorraine Silman, Pam Spencer, and Therese Russell were runners-up. Congratulations to all players who took part in the friendly and competitive day.
Best wishes also go to the Division 1 team, who travelled to Tweed Heads on Friday to compete in the District Pennant Finals on Saturday, November 1. Good luck and good bowling, ladies!
Division 1 Pennant Team (L) Lorraine Silman, Chris Woo, Nuggy Pratt, Lorraine Lemke, Lois Deguara, Lorna Bowers, Helen Fleming, Debbie Mackenzie, Marie Duck. Photos supplied
Runners up 2 Bowl Triples Therese Russell and Lorraine Silman, Pam Spencer (absent)
Winners of the 2 Bowl Triples (L) Carmel Bell, Donna Gordon, Hilary Jones Rowan
Although a day early, the students of the Northern Beaches Karate Club brought the spirit of Halloween to their regular training night.
A red carpet parade of spooks, ghouls, skeletons, Dracula attacking his Dad, a chicken with a police officer on board along with a familiar-looking president, set the scene for a fun night.
Class continued in costume with traditional training, punching bags, breaking boards, breath training and games. All agreed it was a perfect way to celebrate a Karate Halloween.
The Northern Beaches Karate club runs classes in school term on Tuesday and Thursday held at the Bucasia Community Hall in Wallace Avenue. Sensei Helle also holds Self Defence courses for women and girls with the next session planned for February 2026.
For information please call 0488 146 644
Contributed by Gerri Kissner
It was a week to remember for Mackay’s middle-distance athletes, with members of The Rules of Running squad returning from the Queensland School Sport Track and Field Championships in Townsville with an incredible medal haul.
Held from October 13 to 19, the state championships brought together some of the best young talent from across Queensland, with Mackay’s representatives proving they are a force to be reckoned with on the track and in the field.
The Mackay-based Rules of Running squad, coached and trained locally, recorded an outstanding 17 state medals in total, including nine gold, seven silver, and one bronze. The team also achieved 12 personal bests (PBs), one season best (SB), and an impressive 40.5 seconds of combined PB improvements, along with one new state record.
In total, 11 athletes represented the squad, including two competitors in the 10–12 years division and nine in the 13–19 years division.
Among the standout performances was Shailee Mewha, who earned her first two state silver medals in the 800m (PB) and 1500m events.
Millie Groom impressed with two silver medals in the 3000m and 2000m steeplechase, clocking a huge 18-second PB in the latter. She also posted PBs in the 800m (7th place) and 1500m (9th place).
August Cole claimed his first state bronze medal in the 2000m steeplechase with a four-second PB and continued his consistent form with PBs in the 1500m (7th), 800m (7th), and a solid 12th place in the 400m.
Keira Caban showed her remarkable all-round talent, taking home two state gold medals in the long jump and 1500m, as well as three silver medals in the shot put, 800m, and 400m — earning two state championship titles along the way.
Ayla Moon delivered a dominant performance with three gold medals in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m, all accompanied by PBs. Her record-breaking run in the 800m added to her trio of state titles and confirmed her as one of the standout performers of the meet.
Meanwhile, Toby Rule capped off an extraordinary campaign by securing four gold medals and four state championship titles in the 800m, 1500m, 3000m steeplechase, and 5000m.
The results mark one of the most successful outings yet for The Rules of Running squad, whose athletes continue to make Mackay proud on the state stage.
With hard work, dedication, and outstanding coaching behind them, the future looks bright for Mackay’s next generation of track and field stars.
Mackay was proudly represented by two men’s teams at the State Softball Championships in Toowoomba last weekend, with both sides delivering outstanding performances on the diamond.
The B Men’s team, coached by Steven Baxter and Allen James, competed in the Queensland Cup division and impressed with several close games and strong teamwork. Pitcher Cameron Baxter led from the mound with solid form, supported by Emmett Counsell and Graeme Love behind the plate. After a weekend of determined play, the team secured an impressive third place out of 11 teams.
Meanwhile, Mackay’s Open Men’s team, coached by Murray Rivers and John Nash Snr, faced tough conditions after storms delayed play, forcing an early 7am start for the knockout rounds. Despite the setback, the men battled hard — first defeating Toowoomba and then Redlands Green — to earn their place in the grand final against Rockhampton.
With regular catcher Andrew Baxter sidelined due to injury, James Allen stepped up and delivered a stellar performance behind the plate, catching for Liam Potts, who was recently named WSBC Softballer of the Year. In a thrilling finale, Jaxon Maluga smashed an automatic home run with a runner on base, sealing a 2–0 victory for Mackay and the Open Men’s State Championship title. Jaxon was named MVP of the grand final and will travel to Brisbane this weekend for Under-18 Queensland squad training.
Congratulations also go to Riley James and James Allen, who were both selected for the Patriots squad.
A huge well done to all players, coaches, scorers, and managers for representing Mackay with pride and passion.
Goosies Sport and Recreation Club recently hosted the 2025 Champion of Club Champion Singles, marking the first time the major bowls event has been held at the venue. The tournament drew 112 players over seven days, featuring 64 fours, 32 pairs, and 16 singles from clubs across Queensland.
A highlight of the event was 14-year-old Ben Harrison from Paradise Point, who made history by taking out the men’s singles title.
“Everybody was blown away by the club, the staff, and the performance of the players,” said Goosies Meneral manager Michael Newton.
“A young 14-year-old took out the men’s singles against everybody else in Queensland, which is a major achievement for him.”
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli even dropped by to celebrate Harrison’s win. Newton said the event showcased Goosies as a leading venue and helped boost the local economy, adding that the club plans to introduce junior programs to encourage more young bowlers.
2025 champion of club champion singles winners:
Women:
1st – Julia Brownie
2nd – Nicole Williams
3rd – Gill Pudney
4th – Jacinta Weier
Men:
1st – Ben Harrison
2nd – Josh Steffens
3rd – Damien McGee
4th – Shane Hinsch
Photo credit: Bowls Queensland
Christine Fitzpatrick won this year’s Monica Darley Supervised Player Award. Monica who is a Grand Master, donates this award to encourage promising new players. The club also gives incentive awards for players who continually play and advance, while others receive awards for their ABF level.
Weekly Results
Monday 20 October 25 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 1st Terry Sheedy / Simon Barnes
2nd Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson 2nd Christine Fitzpatrick / Colleen Riddel
3rd Monica Darley / Norma Cameron 3rd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
4th Diane Stokes / Edward Kleise 4th Rosie Smith / Jennifer Cameron
Tuesday Evening 21 October 2025 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Patrica Garner / Adrian Westcott 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
3rd Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 4th Geoff Taylor / Lynne O’Neill
Wednesday 22 October 2025 – Week 20 of 25 NWP – Life Members Pairs Week 1 of 2 8 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Monica Darley / Frances Brown 1st Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson
2nd Terry Sheedy / Diane Morgan 2nd Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
3rd Mick King / Diane Stokes 3rd Jewel Schmidt / Kath Poole
4th Karen Caldwell / Geoff Taylor 4th Sandra Morris / Jan Harris
Thursday 23 October 2025 - 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Jan Harris / Patricia Garner 2nd Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore & Susan Gibson / Lynne O’Neill
Friday 24 October 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Geoffrey Patterson 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jennifer Cameron
2nd Kath Poole / Nancy Martin 1st Roland Taylor / Lynne O’Neill
3rd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 2nd Julie O’Neill / Ann Whitmore
Saturday 25 October 2025 – Presidents Trophy Week 1 of 3 - 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson 1st Martin Pearce / Susan Wright
2nd Annie Lynch / Ann Whitmore 2nd Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
3rd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott 3rd Janine Rodgers / Mick King
4th Terry Sheedy / Diane Morgan 4th Julie O’Neill / John McGee
5th Christine Nice / Ken Seaniger 5th Barbara Tait / Josie Crowley
Sunday 26 October 2025 – Novice and Mentors - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Faith Hutchinson / Geoff Cowan 1st Terry Sheedy / Adrian Westcott
2nd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 2nd Diane Stokes / Clare Wallace
3rd Joy Block / Geoff Taylor 3rd Robert Carless / Gillian McCallum
4th Jennifer Cameron / Anne Lutz 4th Christine Morrison / Rodney Miles
Contribtued by Joy Block
Lynne, Martin & Sue
Monica and Christine
Colleen & Joy
Jewel & Adrian
Shirley. Photos supplied
The Heat Girls League kicked off its season in spectacular fashion on Friday afternoon, with PV Fire facing off against Souths Hurricanes, and PV Thunder challenging the reigning premiers, PV Throwing Coconuts.
With several players making their league debut, the atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement. Fortunately, the seasoned campaigners were in top form both on and off the field—offering encouragement and support to the newcomers, helping to settle nerves and foster a welcoming environment.
The Heat Girls League is a dynamic all-girls cricket competition for players aged 11 to 15 years. Featuring teams of nine, each match consists of 15 overs using a modified hard ball format. All equipment is provided, and the inclusive structure ensures every player has the opportunity to participate in all fielding positions and bat in pairs for a set number of deliveries.
More than just a game, the League is about fun, friendship, and confidence-building. Singing, dancing, and cartwheels are all part of the experience—creating an atmosphere where smiles are as common as sixes.
In this week’s results, Souths Hurricanes claimed victory over PV Fire, while the PV Throwing Coconuts continued their dominant form from last season with a win over PV Thunder.
Standout performances included:
• Batting
• Ravnoor Sidhu – 25 runs off 12 balls
• Paytton Thompson – 23 runs off 15 balls
• Izzy Blackburn – 21 runs off 10 balls
• Bowling
• Isabella Hamilton – 2 wickets for 21 runs (4 overs)
• Jordan Wood – 1 wicket for 4 runs (2 overs)
• Ravnoor Sidhu – 1 wicket for 5 runs (2 overs)
Want to Join the Fun?
It’s not too late to get involved! Head down to the Nita Fleming Vigoro Fields (corner of Juliet Street and Bridge Road) at 4pm on Friday. New players are always welcome—just bring your enthusiasm, and we’ll find you a team.
For more information, contact sportsadmin@harruppark.com.au or reach out to Mel on 0424 599 722
The Heat Girls League launched its 2025 season with thrilling matches, debut players, and plenty of fun, as Souths Hurricanes and PV Throwing Coconuts opened with wins in the dynamic all-girls cricket competition for players aged 11 to 15. Photos supplied
Whitsunday Anglican School is celebrating a thrilling sporting triumph after both its Year 12 Boys and Girls Volleyball Teams claimed grand final victories against Mackay State High School (MSHS).
After six weeks of preliminary games against schools across Mackay, the two teams faced off against MSHS in front of a strong home crowd. MSHS took the first set in both matches with some excellent volleyball, setting the stage for an intense contest.
A representative from Whitsunday Anglican School said, “Our Whitsunday teams showed real determination, digging deep to claim the second set and take the finals to a thrilling decider.”
In what became a nail-biting finish, both teams demonstrated “outstanding teamwork, skill, and composure to emerge victorious!”
The representative added, “Congratulations to all players for showing true Whitsunday spirit in your encouragement and support of each other. A huge thank you to our amazing coaches, Mr Shamus Stayt and Ms Val Allen, for their calm leadership, and to Mr Wheaton for his support courtside.”
The double victory marks a proud moment for the school community, reflecting not only the players’ athletic ability but also their unity, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Both teams’ success has underscored Whitsunday Anglican School’s commitment to fostering teamwork and excellence, on and off the court.
Whitsunday Anglican School celebrated a proud double victory as both Year 12 Boys and Girls Volleyball Teams triumphed in their grand finals against Mackay State High School.
BOWLS
The Annual Dames versus Dandies Fun Day was held at the club on Tuesday, October 7, and proved to be another great success. With the support of many enthusiastic district bowlers and members from the North Mackay Club, the day was filled with fun, laughter, and friendly competition.
After a few shandies and plenty of good spirits, the Dandies claimed victory, with the ladies graciously admitting they were outplayed this year — but vowing to come back stronger in 2026!
A special thank you goes to the Goosies Club for providing a delicious afternoon tea platter, enjoyed by all. Congratulations also to the runners-up from Northern Beaches Bowls Club and the winning team from North Mackay Club.
The club is already looking forward to another memorable showdown at next year’s event.
Winning Team - B. Ingram, G. McLean, W. McCurry, Ladies President Hilary Jones Rowan, E. Galletly.
Contributed by Sue Hazledine. Photos supplied
Runners up were : W. Wright, A. Burrows, M. Godfrey, G. Kasper
This season is proving to have some fantastic matches, Allan Robins has always had a lot of marathon matches but last Tuesday night, Duncan gave Allan a run for his money and they didn’t disappoint.
They took turns with every set was super close with Allan won in the end 11-8, 9-11, 11-9, 9-11, 16-14.
Evening Fixtures
Division 1 – Gold (Goncalo Serra, Geoff Denman, Graham Brake) beat Barra (Barry Patterson, Lee Brake, Graham Drury) 8-3, with Lee beat Graham 11-6.
Eagles (Emma Widdup, Syed Aminul Hossain, Josh Brown) beat Jaguar (Jacob Whelan, Geoff Cowan, Rymer Tabulo) 7-4, with Jacob made a comeback against Emma to win 11-6 in 5 Sets.
Fish (Steven Whiting, Trent Day, Graeme Walker) won against Lily (Robbie Richards, Lily Boland, Will VanDaKaa) 7-4, with Steven winning in 5 Sets over Will 11-3.
Division 2 – Teddy (George Camilleri, Vincent Neuhauf, Ross DeBoer) beat Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Peter Taber, Ian McKay) 7-4, George and Mark had a massive match with George coming out on top 11-9 in 5th Set.
Drongos (Yilin Jiang, Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight) won against Alpha (Allan Robins, Samuel Whelan, Peter Goodson) 7-4, Allan won in a close finish against Duncan 16-14 in 5 Sets.
Division 3 – Nova Smashers (Noreen Frederickson, Craig VanDaKaa, Nate Clark) beat Tibhar (Ollie Hamelink, Tiffany Camilleri) 6-5, with Tiffany won against Craig 11-5.
Marlin (Val Austin, Melanie Theodore, Mark Stam) won 6-5 against Sigma (Simon Hogan, Logan Brown, Rod Hamelink), Melanie came out on top against Rod 11-7 in tight 5 Sets.
Morning Fixtures
Division 1 – Rap Drive (Andrea Nicholson, Doug Dungavell, John McGee) drew level with Jump Up (Branko Vucurovic, Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton) 6-6, there was a lot of close matches Doug and Delma having a wonderful match with Doug winning 11-6 in tight 5 sets.
Jazz Live (George Camilleri, Veronica Shepherd, Peter Goodson) won 7-5 over Rock Rally (Geoff Cowan, Pam Joyce, Kevin Abbott), with Geoff coming back from 2 sets to 1 down to win against George 11-7 in 5th set.
Bass Bump (Donna Abbott, Judy Zahn, Peter Taber) beat Drum Beat (Allan Robins, Steve Mathieson, Bryan Marshall) 7-5, Judy won a close finishing match 11-9 in 5 sets over Bryan.
Division 2 – Byte Bouncers (Gloria Vella, Helen Ware, Robyn Bushell) won against Code Crackers (Pam Keune, Josie Davis, Thelma Caruana) 7-5, Josie won a tight 5 set match against Robyn 12-10.
Pixal Paddles (Marie Taylor, Louise Gould, Frank Caruana) beat Nano Nets (Kim Daffy, Ian Dodds, Coral Morgan) winning 7-5, with Marie coming out on top 12-10 in 5th Set against Kim.
Division 3 – Captin Spins (Sally Muir, Allison Day, Carmel Cristaldi) drew level with Spider Smashers (Sharon Muller, Trish Zamparutti, Laurie Bradshaw) 6-6, Sally won a close match against Sharon 11-9.
Bat Serves (Kim Challendar, David Muir, Janelle Keune) won 8-4 against Iron Rallies (Gerry Synnott, Madge Saunders, Glenda Brookes), Madge beat David 11-8 in 5th Set.
Contributed by Andrea Nicholson
Allan Robins
Duncan Treloar. Photos supplied
The Central Queensland Blokart Club is gearing up for its 17th annual Blokart Regatta at Cape Hillsborough Beach, set to hit the sand on November 1–2. Drawing competitors from across Queensland and as far afield as Victoria, the regatta promises fast-paced, thrilling racing on the shore.
Spectators are invited to soak up the excitement and cheer on the landyachts as they race along the stunning beachfront. The club will have gazebos set up for shade, though beachgoers are encouraged to bring their own chairs to enjoy the best views of the action. A sausage sizzle and cold soft drinks will be available, with proceeds supporting the ongoing operations of the Central Queensland Blokart Club.
This family-friendly event is perfect for both dedicated motorsport fans and casual visitors looking for a day out on the beach. Previous regattas have showcased close finishes, high-speed manoeuvres, and plenty of fun for participants and spectators alike, making it a highlight on the Mackay sporting calendar.
Co-Founder and President Dave Moore said, “We welcome the public to come along, watch the racing, and enjoy the beach atmosphere. Our regatta is all about thrilling competition, community spirit, and sharing our love of Blokarting with everyone.”
Don’t miss this chance to see landyachts in action on one of Mackay’s most picturesque beaches!
Last year’s regatta was a spectacular display of speed and skill along Cape Hillsborough Beach, and spectators are encouraged to join us this year for another thrilling weekend of Blokart racing. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Five first year players came in top four positions this week. Karen Cadwell finished in top place on Wednesday, Annette Howe and Jewel Schmidt second on Friday with Sue Mayer-Miller bagging fourth position also on Friday and Christopher Meyers third on Saturday. This is an amazing effort for these first-year players. Bridge is a complex, fun game and these new members have taken to the game like ducks to water. Our Australia Day Come and Try day, sponsored by Mackay Regional Council, includes morning tea and a sausage sizzle. Come and see what Bridge is all about, enjoy a meal and friendly atmosphere for Australia Day.
Weekly Results
Monday 13 January 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Terry Sheedy 1st Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Ted Cullinan 3rd Monica Darley / Kath Poole
4th Ming Ting / David Ting 4th Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
Tuesday Evening 14 January 2025 –3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Janet Hansen 2nd Patricia Garner / Adrian Westcott
3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy 4th Sandra Morris / Geoff Taylor
Wednesday 15 January 2025 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Karen Cadwell / Noel Saunders 1st Barbara Tait / Janine Rodgers
2nd Max Holewa / Diane Holewa 2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
3rd Sandra Morris / Jan Harris 3rd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Ros Scott / Griffin Bancroft 4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Ted Cullinan
Thursday Evening 16 January 2025 –4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 2nd Patricia Garner / Mick King
3rd Faye Wright / Adrian Westcott 4th Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger
Friday 17 January 2025 – 9 Tables Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown
2nd Annette Howe / Jewel Scmidt 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes
4th Sue Mayer-Miller / Noel Saunders 4th Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill
Saturday 18 January 2025 –Section A – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd Ann Whitmore / Diane Stokes 2nd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
3rd Geoff Taylor / Chris Meyers 3rd Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
Saturday 11 January 2025 Section B - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris 1st Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette
3rd Carmel Brown / Patrick Rasmussan 3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Ted Cullinan
Contributed by Joy Block
-mackay-softballers-jaxon-maluga-and-peyton-barrow.jpeg)
SOFTBALL
Two Mackay softballers, Jaxon Maluga and Peyton Barrow, headed off to the Club Classic tournament two weeks ago, each showcasing outstanding performances.
Jaxon played for the Brisbane-based team Scorpions, coming away with an impressive list of achievements such as Best Pitcher, Team Pitcher, and selection in the All-Star Team. His team finished runner-up, narrowly missing victory by just one run.
This weekend, October 17th–19th, Jaxon will play with the Open Mackay Men’s Team for the first time at a tournament in Toowoomba. Mackay will be represented by both an Open Men’s and a B Men’s side, competing in the State Championships.
Meanwhile, Peyton Barrow played her last tournament in Australia for a while, representing the Cougars. She was awarded Designated Player, Rookie Player, and Best Batter, rounding off her Australian season on a high note.
Peyton is completing her Year 12 studies at Northern Beaches and will spend Christmas with her family before heading to Oklahoma, USA. She has received a four-year scholarship to Oklahoma City University, where she’ll live on campus, studying Pre-Vet and Biology Pre-Medicine.
While it won’t be all study, she’ll continue training and playing softball, mostly as a catcher for the Oklahoma City University team.
In local softball news, Social 7s kicked off on Sunday night with four teams taking part. Players, both new and returning, enjoyed learning fresh skills and having fun in this social version of modified slow pitch. Games continue every Sunday at 5pm and 6:15pm until the end of November.
James Allen and Emmett Counsell also competed in the U21 tournament two weeks ago, where James was awarded Best Fielder.
At the recent Club Classic, James’s team, TE AROHANUI, went through undefeated to win the tournament. James was further recognised as Fielder of the Tournament and selected as All-Stars Team Catcher. Both James and Emmett will now head to Toowoomba this weekend, representing Mackay A Men.
Contributed by Cheryl Martin
1) Mackay softballers Peyton Barrow and Jaxon Maluga impressed at the Club Classic, earning top honours as they step into exciting new chapters in Toowoomba and Oklahoma, USA. Photos supplied
2) James Allen was awarded best fielder at the tournament
3) Emmett Counsell will be heading to Toowoomba on the weekend, playing for mackay A men alongside James and Jaxon.
Mackay Table Tennis Association Fixture Results
7th October 2025
Division 1 – Eagles (Emma Widdup, Josh Brown, Syed Aminul Hossain) defeated Lily (Robbie Richards, Will VanDaKaa, Lily Boland) 7-4 with Josh winning a massive 5 set match over Lily 15-13
Barra (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson) defeated Jaguar (Anne Sheridan, Jacob Whelan) 3-2. Andrea had a big win over Jacob 11-9 in 5th set.
Fish (Steven Whiting, Trent Day, Graeme Walker) defeated Gold (Vince Boeske, Geoff Denman) 10-1 unfortunately no 5 set matches but some great 4 setters.
Division 2 – Drongos (Duncan Treloar, Delma Knight, Yilin Jiang) defeated Marlin (Mark Sleeman, Ian McKay, Peter Taber) 9-2 with Duncan had a great match against Ian, Duncan won 11-7 in 5th set.
Teddy (George Camilleri, Tony Bowman, Vincent Neuhauf) defeated Alpha (Allan Robins, Peter Goodson, Rymer Tabulo) 7-4, with no 5 set matches there was a lot of 4 set matches Peter defeated Vincent 11-9 in 4th set.
Division 3 – Tibhar (Rachel S, Ollie Hamelink, Liz Burton) defeated Marlin (Mark Stam, Val Austin, Melanie Theodore) 6-5, Ollie made a great come back in the 5th set with a win over Val 11-9.
Nova Smashers (Remy Zhan, Craig VanDaKaa) defeated Sigma (Rod Hamelink, Logan Brown) 5-0 with Craig won 4 set match over Rod.
1. George Camilleri
2. Duncan Treloar
South Suburban Bowls Club is set to host the 2025 State Mixed Pairs Championships this weekend, bringing two days of high-level bowls action to the region. The event kicks off on Saturday 11th October at 9 a.m., with competition continuing through Sunday 12th October.
The championships will feature some of Queensland’s finest bowlers, combining seasoned champions and local talent. Spectators can expect fast-paced games, strategic play, and a lively atmosphere as participants vie for state honours.
The line-up of competitors includes:
For South Suburban Bowls Club, hosting the State Mixed Pairs Championships is a major highlight, celebrating the sport and its community following. Fans are invited to come down, enjoy a drink or a meal from the club’s facilities, and watch the competition unfold on the greens.
The event offers an opportunity for locals to see strategic skill, precision, and teamwork at its finest. Beyond the on-field action, it’s a chance to connect with fellow bowls enthusiasts, cheer for local representatives, and enjoy a weekend of sport in a welcoming community setting.
Whether a long-time supporter of lawn bowls or a first-time spectator, the 2025 State Mixed Pairs Championships promise two days of engaging competition, camaraderie, and entertainment. South Suburban Bowls Club will be the place to be this weekend for anyone looking to witness some of the state’s best mixed pairs in action.
Photo source: South Suburban Bowls Club (Facebook)
Mackay’s young athletes are gearing up for the All Schools State Schools Track and Field Championships in Townsville this October, following strong performances at the Capricornia and North Queensland school trials in September. Twelve squad members earned spots across a range of events.
10–12 years age group; 13–15 October:
• Penny Shields - 800m and 1500m
• Harper Miles - 200m, 400m, 800m and the 1500m
13–19 years age group; 16–19 October:
• August Cole - 400m, 800m, 1500m and the 2000m Steeplechase
• Autumn Curtis - 400m and 800m
• Toby Rule - 800m, 1500m, 5000m and the 3000m Steeplechase
• Ayla Moon - 200m, 400m, 800m and 1500m
• Keira Caban - 400m, 800m, 1500m, Long Jump and Shot Put
• Chloe Waples - 200m, 400m and 800m
• Riley Baumann - 1500m and 3000m
• Shailee Mewha - 800m and 1500m
• Millie Groom - 800m, 1500m, 3000m and the 2000m Steeplechase
• Riley Simpson - 400m and 800m.
The squad recently had an impressive hit-out at the North Queensland Championships, with 19 athletes participating. Competing against the state’s best on home turf will be an exciting challenge for Mackay’s dedicated young track and field stars.
The North Queensland Championships recently saw Mackay’s young athletes compete across a range of track and field events, showcasing their skills and preparation for upcoming state competitions. Photo source: The Rules of Running Mackay (Facebook)
BRIDGE
The Mackay Contract Bridge Club held its 2025 Congress with players from the Gold Coast, Brisbane and Townsville in attendance.
An extremely well supported weeked saw 60 players compete in three competitions. Winners of the Open pairs were Ian Afflick and Terry Sheedy, followed closely by Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan.
Section B pairs were won by Martin Pearce and Simon Barnes, with Annette Howe and Jewell Schmidt in second place. The Open Teams were won by Team Bugeia, Noel Bugeia, Val Holbrook, Terry Sheedy and Ian Afflick.
Section B Teams won by Team Patterson: Sandy Patterson, Mary Rose Ramsden, Christine Nice and Diane Cox.
Weekly Results
Monday 29 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
2nd Jennifer Cameron / Diane Morgan 2nd Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell
3rd Diane Stokes / Nancy Wix 3rd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
Tuesday Evening 30 September 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st John McGee / Mick King 1st Karen Caldwell / Susan Gibson
2nd Patricia Garner / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
Wednesday 1 October 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Terry Sheedy / Susan Wright
2nd Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell 3rd Barbara Tait / Josie Crowley
Friday 3 October 2025 – Mackay Open Walkins 7 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 1st Di Garside / Donna Fitch
2nd Geoff Taylor / Anne Lutz 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Janelle Conroy / Robyn Nolan 3rd Christine Nice / Diane Cox
Friday 3 & Saturday 4 October 2025 September 2025 – Mackay Swiss Pairs – Red Points
Section A Section B
1st Terry Sheedy / Ian Afflick 1st Simon Barnes / Martin Pearce
2nd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 2nd Annette Howe / Jewel Schmidt
3rd Noel Bugeia / Val Holbrook 3rd Jill Brabon / Beverley Lowcock
4th Frances Brown / Alan Brown 4th Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch
Sunday 5 & Monday 6 October 2025 Mackay Teams Congress Red Points
Team Section A
1st Bugeia Noel Bugeia / Val Holbrook / Terry Sheedy / Ian Afflick
2nd Brown Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Diane Morgan / Janet Hansen
3rd Conroy Janelle Conroy / Robyn Nolan / Janine Rodgers / Nancy Marting
4th Breeze Deb Breeze / Renate Feige / Mick King / Ian Gaskell
**Team Section B**
1st Patterson Sandy Patterson / Mary Rose Ramsden / Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd Pearce Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes / Sue Mayer-Miller / Lynne O’Neill
3rd Brabon Jill Brabon / Beverley Lowcock / Lydie Martin / Elaine Hadlow
Contributed by Joy Block
- Terry Sheedy, Cnv. Anne, Ian Afflick
- Janet Morgan & Diane Morgan
- Simon Barnes & Martin Pearce
- Annette Howe, Anne, Jewell Schmidt.
Photos supplied
Queensland families have shown overwhelming support for the Government’s Play On! Sports Vouchers program, with the first round now closed.
The initiative, which provides vouchers valued at up to $200, was designed to ease cost of living pressures while encouraging more young Queenslanders to get active in sport.
The Government has committed $62.5 million each year for four years to fund the program, ensuring families across the state can access financial support for children aged between five and 17 years to join sporting clubs and activities.
The program has been warmly welcomed, with families already putting the vouchers to use. The Government said this reflects a renewed commitment to grassroots sport, after what it described as “10 years of decline under Labor.”
A second round of vouchers will open in January 2026, giving more Queensland families the chance to benefit.
Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Tim Mander, said the strong take-up demonstrates the importance of sport in Queensland communities.
“The strong demand for the first-round highlights how important sport is to Queensland families,” Minister Mander said.
“It’s fantastic to know that more kids will be getting on the court or the field with the help of their Play On! Sports Voucher.
“This program has specifically targeted kids in every town, city and region of the state, and I’m particularly proud that every child with a disability who applied will receive a voucher to get involved in sport.”
For more details about the program and future application rounds, families can visit www.qld.gov.au/playon.
By Michael James – Fitness Industry Professional, Facility Owner & Wellness Coach
In the fitness world, training gets all the attention. Lifting heavier, running faster, pushing harder. But here’s the truth: performance and results don’t come from training alone — they come from recovery. That’s why at Fitness Cartel Mackay, we’ve invested in a state-of-the-art Wellness Centre that puts recovery on equal footing with training.
For athletes, recovery is the difference between progress and plateau. For everyday members, it’s the secret to having more energy, better focus, and a body that feels alive instead of run down. Two of the most powerful recovery methods we’ll offer are traditional saunas and contrast therapy — and the science behind them is remarkable.
The heat advantage – traditional saunas
The use of sauna is nothing new. Ancient cultures have used heat to heal for thousands of years. But modern science has confirmed what they already knew: regular sauna use improves cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, enhances recovery, and even extends lifespan.
Heat exposure increases circulation, helping deliver nutrients and oxygen to tired muscles. It stimulates the release of growth hormone, which is critical for repair. It even boosts mental clarity by increasing endorphins and neurotransmitters like dopamine. For lifters, this means faster recovery between sessions. For anyone chasing wellness, it means stress relief, better sleep, and a calmer mind.
The power of contrast therapy
Now add cold. Contrast therapy — alternating between hot and cold immersion — is a game-changer for resilience and recovery. When you step into cold water, blood vessels constrict, inflammation reduces, and your nervous system gets a powerful reset. Step back into the heat, and blood vessels dilate, pumping fresh blood and nutrients through the body.
This push-pull effect is like interval training for your circulation. It speeds up muscle repair, reduces soreness, and builds a kind of mental toughness that carries into every area of life.
Research even suggests cold exposure boosts immune function and sharpens cognitive performance.
Not just for athletes
The best part? You don’t need to be a professional athlete to benefit. Whether you’re a parent juggling family and work, someone getting back into training after time away, or an older adult wanting to feel more energised — the Wellness Centre has something to offer you.
Contrast therapy and sauna are as much about the mind as they are the body. They provide stillness, reset stress levels, and create a sense of renewal that lasts long after the session is over.
Wellness meets performance
At Fitness Cartel Mackay, recovery isn’t an afterthought — it’s built into the foundation of what we do. The Wellness Centre will ensure that whether you train hard, train light, or are simply looking for a space to recharge, you’ll leave feeling stronger, clearer, and more alive.
This is the future of fitness: train hard, recover smart, live better. And soon, Mackay will have it right here at home. https://www.fitnesscartel.com.au/clubs/mackay/
The Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Dojo has celebrated an impressive 10-year milestone, marking a decade of discipline, strength, and community connection.
Operating from the Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia, the dojo runs classes every Tuesday and Thursday evening during school terms, fostering a supportive environment where students of all ages can train and grow together.
Congratulations to everyone involved on reaching this significant milestone.
The Northern Beaches Shito-Ryu Karate Dojo has celebrated 10 years of discipline, strength, and community spirit at its Bucasia training hall. Photo source: Northern Beaches Our Community (Facebook)
Last Wednesday the finals of both the Club Under 70’s Singles and the Club Over 70’s singles finals were held at the club. The Under 70’s singles final was between Cheryle Corbett and Brenda Trannore.
This game was tense but very friendly, with both ladies concentrating on each bowl to the end game of champion bowlers. Brenda Trannore was the eventual winner and this years Unders 70’s Champion. Her other achievements now include: Club Championship Singles Winner and the B grade singles Champion for the club this year. .
The Over 70’s singles game was played between Helen Fleming and Lorna Bowers.
Each end was a lovely display of beautiful bowls, with some very close shots added . The eventual winner was Lorna Bowers. Congratulations to each lady bowler who competed in both these singles games, and indeed throughout the 2025 season.
Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine
Photos:
- Under 70’s Singles winner Brenda Trannore and Runner up Cheryl Corbett
- Over 70’s Singles Runner Up Helen Fleming and Winner Lorna Bowers. Photos supplied
Fabulous results to the final of the Club Consistency Singles Comp. The game was played on Wednesday 10/9/25 with contestants Cheryle Corbett and Wendy Sonter vying for the win. Congratulations goes to Cheryle Corbett winning by the slimmest of margins. The games was a nail biter to the very last bowl with both ladies playing amazing bowls.
Representing the Mackay District, the North Mackay Ladies Division 1 Pennant team travelled to Emerald on Saturday 20/9, to compete against the Leichhardt District team.
The North Mackay Ladies played amazing bowls to come away as well-deserved winners. The team will now travel to Brisbane to compete at a later date.
Contributed by Suzanne Hazledine
Photos:
L-R Nug Pratt, Marie Duck, Chris Woo, Bev McDonald, Deb Mackenzie, Lorraine Lemke, Lorraine Silman, Lorna Bowers
Consistancy winner Cheryle Corbett
Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox, recently joined local families and young athletes at Harrup Park to celebrate the latest recipients of the Mackay Sports Foundation grants.
Round 3 of the program marked its biggest round yet, with 28 talented young athletes receiving financial support to help overcome barriers and chase their sporting dreams.
From Irish dancing and athletics to netball, gymnastics, and even horseball, the range of sports represented highlights the depth and diversity of talent in the Mackay region.
Mr Willcox said it was an honour to present certificates to the athletes and hear firsthand the stories behind their sporting journeys.
“It was fantastic to meet these athletes and their families and talk about the extra challenges regional kids face in accessing elite pathways,” he said.
He praised the Mackay Sports Foundation as a shining example of a "by community, for community" initiative, offering vital assistance to young people striving to represent their club, state, and even country.
Mr Willcox also extended his thanks to Harrup Park, the Great Barrier Reef Arena, and Mackay Cricket Chairman Terry Doolan for their continued commitment to grassroots sport and nurturing the next generation of champions.
The 2025 Qld BMX State Championships delivered an action-packed weekend of racing, showcasing the incredible talent, determination, and sportsmanship of riders from across the state.
Over 615 competitors took to the Mackay track over two thrilling days of racing which featured:
Mini Wheelers, Sprockets, Challenge, Masters and Superclass across 20” Inch, Cruiser and Para BMX categories.
Standout performances came from MAD BMX Club local riders, Adelyn Eatwell (11 Girls) Liam Willson (12 Boys) Dylan Secher (14 Boys) Brendan Knight (40-44 Men) Michael Wallin (45-49 Men) and Michael Jameljanenko (50-54 Men) making the most of their home track knowledge and bringing home Q1 Plates in 20” class.
Day two brought even more excitement with local MAD BMX riders putting on a strong show in Cruiser class with Dylan Secher (13-14 Boys) Sherridan Pogmore (40-44 Women) Michael Jameljanenko (50-54 Men) all impressing the home crowd also claiming themself a Q1 Plate. The elite Masters and Superclass categories lit up the weekend with high-speed racing with local favourite Michael Wallin proving too fast, also securing a Q1 Plate in Masters.
Superclass Men
1st Zac Hutton (Bundaberg BMX Club)
2nd Mica Moloney (Cairns BMX Club)
3rd Zac Stoppa (Ashmore BMX Club)
Superclass Women
1st Isabella Schramm (Ashmore BMX Club)
2nd Celeste Barr (Townsville BMX Club)
3rd Kyarnee Young (Pine Rivers BMX Club)
The recently upgraded track provided the perfect stage for thrilling bar to bar racing and plenty of memorable moments. MAD BMX Club thanks all Riders, Spectators, Sponsors, Volunteers, Aus Cycling, Officials, and Mackay Regional Council Clubs whose efforts made the Championships possible.
Congratulations to every rider who hit the track across the weekend. The State Championships once again highlighted the strength of BMX and celebrates not only the sport but the passion that makes this sport so fun and unique.
Adelyn Eatwell - Q1 (11 Year Girls - 20")
Liam Wilson Q1 (12 Boys - 20")
Dylan Secher Q1 (14 Boys - 20")
Brendan Knight - Q1 (40-44 Men - 20")
Michael Wallin - Q1 - 45-49 Men 20" and Masters Q1
Michael Jameljanenko - Q1 (50-54 Men - 20")
Sherridan Pogmore Q1 (40-44 Cruiser Women)
Mini Wheelers
Sprockets and Mini Wheelers - MAD BMX Club
Left to Right: Mathew Hey (Aus Cycling State Operations Manager) Dale Percy (Auscycling Head of Events) Greg Williamson (Mayor Mackay Regional Council) Brett Wilson (MAD BMX Club Presiden
Around 30 runners, including Mackay locals and visitors from interstate and overseas, gathered at 7am Sunday for the inaugural ACE (Australian Conveyor Engineering Fenner Dunlop) Eungella 6km and 19km Trail Run. Starting from the Eungella Chalet lawns under perfect conditions, participants enjoyed a scenic and adventurous course through Eungella National Park.
Race Director Tim Magoffin set a light-hearted tone, joking about “drop bear” encounters and recommending Vegemite as protection, while reminding runners of real trail challenges like leeches and “wait-a-while” vines. His efforts in course marking and safety were widely praised.
Organisers thanked ACE Engineering for sponsoring the event and donating random cash prizes. The Mackay-based company, employing over 50 staff and apprentices, has been a local leader in sustainable engineering for more than 20 years.
The Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service also earned thanks for maintaining the trails, which showcased Eungella’s natural beauty. Tony and Tess from the Eungella Chalet were commended for their warm hospitality.
In the 19km race, French runner Leonard Diez claimed victory ahead of Brady Giannangelo and Henry Fernandez. Andrew Wallace was the first Mackay finisher, followed by Stephen Oberg. Trail detours brought light-hearted awards for Jose Short and Alan Zamparutti, while Maddison Dollar and Andrew Short were also standouts.
In the 6km event, Darrin Pullen, Max Miles, and Ashley Miles claimed top spots for Mackay Road Runners, with Kayla Waugh leading the women’s field.
The club’s next social run will be held from Bluewater Quay at 4pm, followed by the Annual Awards Night on 25 October at Goosies.
Stephen Oberg (front left) and Darrin Pullen (front right) are off and racing in the 6km ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run.
3197 – Race Director, Tim Magoffin (centre) with some of the very vital volunteers for the ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run (left to right) Jo Hughes, Julie Whibley, Len Howarth and Paul Tilse.
Alan Zamparutti is ecstatic finishing the 19km (plus a few more kilometres) in the ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run.
Rockhampton runners, Kristina Joergensen and Angus Campbell enjoy the post run celebrations and mini presentations at the Eungella Chalet’s outdoor dining area.
Max Miles (front left) and Judy Zahn (front right) bolt off the start line in the 6km ACE Engineering Eungella Trail Run. Photos supplied
TENNIS
Day 1 Winners & Runners-Up
• Open Women’s Singles – Winner: Lexi Tapp, Runner-Up: Sarah Chisholm
• Division 1 Men’s Singles – Winner: Lincoln Gam Lim, Runner-Up: Chris Barbour
• Open Men’s Doubles – Winners: Troy Debondi and Josh Wilson, Runners-Up: James Rogers and Barry Abbott
• Open Women’s Doubles – Winners: Sarah Chisholm and Jess Brass, Runners-Up: Bree Chauntler and Ash Chauntler
• Veterans Men's Doubles – Winners: Craig Bentley and Doug Boss, Runners-Up: Mike Just and Brett Walz
Day 2 Winners & Runners-Up
• 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐌𝐞𝐧'𝐬 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐬 - Winner: James Rogers, Runner-Up: Josh Wilson
• 𝐎𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐱𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 – Winners: Troy Debondi and Jess Brass, Runners-Up: Wynn Tapp and Lexi Tapp
• 𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝟏 𝐌𝐢𝐱𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 – Winners: Barry Abbott and Ash Chauntler, Runners-Up: Zac George and Debbie Munns
Mackay Tennis Association celebrated two action-packed days of competition, with standout performances across singles, doubles, and mixed events showcasing local talent. Photo source: Mackay Tennis Association (Facebook)
SURF LIFESAVING
Mackay SLSC just competed in the State Endurance Championships hosted at Alexandra Headlands SLSC on the Sunshine Coast. The team finished an impressive 8th out of 36 clubs from around Australia, out classing some of its rival super clubs like Surfers Paradise, Coolangatta and Northcliffe just to name a few.
The team of 16 travelled to the Sunshine Coast as part of a NQBP sponsored Youth Development Camp hosted at Dicky Beach SLSC. Events ranged from a 2km swim, 4km beach run, 6km board paddle and 6km ski paddle, which certainly tested Mackay’s best surf lifesavers.
“The club is extremely proud of our lifesavers achievements," Said Mr Grant, Director of Surf Sports.
"We have been preparing for this for a number of months now and to see our club take on the best in Australia and achieve at such a high level is something really special.”
“This has been a great experience for all our competitors and it's really good preparation for regional Qld’s biggest surf sports event - the North Australian Titles to be hosted at Harbour Beach, Mackay from the 31st Oct – 2nd November.”
The club took out 1 x Gold Medal, 4 x Silver Medals and 4 x Bronze medals as well as other minor places.
Contributed by Josh Grant
Results for week ending Sunday 28 September 2025
North/South East/West
1st Janelle Conroy - Tex Sheedy 1st Helen Van Den Broek- Jan Harris
2nd David Ting - Eric Goodchild 2nd Jayne Johnstone - Joy Hold
3rd Nancy Martin - Geoff Taylor 3rd Diane Stokes - Edward Kliese
Tuesday Evening 23 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st Eric Goodchild - Noel Bugeia 1st Patricia Garner - Adrian Westcott
2nd Helen Van Den Broek - Tex Sheedy 2nd Janelle Conroy - Joy Hold
3rd Tere Wotherspoon – Frank Roach 3rd Sandra Morris - Diane Morgan
Wednesday 24 September 2025 – 7.5 Table Mitchell (Green Points)
North/South East/West
1st David Ting - Eric Goodchild 1st Noel Bugeia - Janelle Conroy
2nd Sandra Morris - Jan Harris 2nd Tere Wotherspoon - Kathleen Clifford
3rd Susan Wright - Mick King 3rd Gwen Liddell - Anne Lutz
4th Debra Goodchild - Ming Ting
Thursday Evening 25 September2025 – 4 Table Howell (Green Points)
1st Frances Brown - Ann Whitmore 3rd Geoff Taylor - Thelma Caruana
2nd Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia 4th Mick King - John Mcgee
Friday 26 September 2025 –6.5 Table Mitchell (Green Points)
North/South East/West
1st Tex Sheedy - Noel Bugeia 1st Christine Nice - Diane Cox
2nd Joy Robinson - Geoff Taylor 2nd Martin Pearce - Gwen Liddell
3rd Kath Poole - Nancy Martin 3rd David Ting - Ming Ting
Saturday 27 September 2025 – 10.5 Table Mitchell (Green Points)
North/South East/West
1st Janine Rodgers - Nancy Martin 1st Frances Brown - Alan Brown
2nd Ming Ting - David Ting 2nd Debra Goodchild - Eric Goodchild
3rd Joy Robinson - Ken Seaniger 3rd Janelle Conroy - Robert Carless
4th Geoff Taylor - Josie Crowley 4th Martin Pearce - Sandra Morris
5th Errol Morris - Adrian Westcott 5th Vicki Howard - Richard Wix
Sunday 28 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell (Green Points)
North/South East/West
1st Faith Hutchinson - Geoff Cowan 1st Lynne O'neill - Karen Caldwell
2nd Joy Hold - Anne Lutz 2nd Rodney Miles - Sandy Patterson
3rd Janine Rodgers - Jewel Schmidt 3rd John Mcgee - Adrian Westcott
Some of 2025 beginners who played in this years Novice Pairs Congress. Photo supplied
Throughout August, children had their coloured pencils, textas and crayons out, creating masterpieces that combined a love of cricket with a flair for art. The response far exceeded expectations, with more than 60 entries received in each division, making the job of choosing winners incredibly tough for judges.
With all the international cricket action at Harrup Park during August, the club thought this competition would be a fun way to get kids involved — and they certainly delivered.
Harrup Park Sports Development Officer, Mel Dwyer, said she was blown away by the "effort, creativity and even the research some children put in, with a few entrants going as far as googling the exact colours of our logos to make their work as realistic as possible."
“If I could give everyone a prize, I would,” said Mel.
After much deliberation, the following division winners were selected — some by the narrowest of margins:
"Congratulations to all our winners, and a huge thank you to everyone who entered. If you’re passing through Harrup Park, be sure to stop in and check out some of the amazing entries currently on display."
"We can’t wait to make this a highlight on the calendar and bring the Colouring In Competition back as an annual event."
Children combined their love of cricket and art in Harrup Park’s August Colouring In Competition, with over 60 entries per division and winners Gabriella, Zabina, and Lakey Love selected for their creativity and effort. Photos supplied
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BRIDGE
Twenty one players went to Airlie Beach on Wednesday to compete in the Airlie Red Point pairs event. Six pairs all placed, including Patricia Garner and Martin Pearce, and Alan and Frances Brown winning first place. Nancy Wix and Julie O’Neill who have never played together before came in a respectable fourth place.
Weekly Results
Monday 15 September 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 1st Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Vicki Howard / Susan Ross
3rd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 3rd Barbara Tait / Margaret Lane
Tuesday Evening 16 September 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Ian Cruickshank 1st Adrian Westcott / Janelle Conroy
2nd Janet Hansen / Thelma Caruana 2nd Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
Wednesday 17 September 2025 – Airlie Beach Congress – 11 Table Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Patricia Garner / Martin Pearce 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Betty Adison / Ellie Sheffield
3rd Renata Feige / Neil Cawthorne 3rd Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
4th Elaine Hadlow / Jill Spencer 4th Nancy Wix / Julie O’Neill
5th Debbie Breeze / Susan McInnes 5th Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan
Wednesday 17 September 2025 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 2nd Geoff Taylor / Glen Cocup
3rd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 4th John McGee / Mick King
5th Griffin Bancroft / Nancy Martin 6th Sandra Morris / Errol Morris
Thursday Evening 18 September 2025 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy 2nd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd Jan Harris / Andrew Canavan 4th Patricia Garner / Griffin Bancroft
Friday 19 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Kath Poole / Nancy Martin 1st Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd Thelma Caruana / Joy Block
3rd Diane Stokes / Griffin Bancroft 3rd Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
Saturday 20 September 2025 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Helen Van Den Broek / Martin Pearce 1st Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch
2nd Janine Rodgers / Nancy Martin 2nd Sandra Morris / Ann Whitmore
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Susan Wright / Faye Wright
4th Ming Ting / David Ting 4th Geoff Cowan / Annette Howe
5th Erroll Morris / Ian Gaskell 5th Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill
Contributed by Joy Block
Nancy Wix, Neil Cawthorn and Julie O’Neill
Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan
Patricia Garner and Betty Aidnson. Photos supplied
Well Finals for Season 3 have arrived and they delivered with the top 2 teams in each Division battling it out. There has been some incredible matches throughout the season and congratulations to everyone on a great season.
Division 1: Fish (Goncalo Serra, Steven Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Bears (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) 7-4 with no 5 set matches but we did have some close 4 setters Josh come out on top by the skin of his teeth against Steve 13-11 in 4th set.
Division 2: Tigers (Allan Edwards, Geoff Cowan, Allan Robins) won against Cats (Duncan Treloar, Will VanDaKaa) 9-0 with Allan R snuck through against Duncan 13-11 in 5th set.
Division 3: Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan, Melanie Theodore) defeated Stiga (Simon Hogan, Val Austin) 7-4, Simon came out ahead against Noreen 11-6 in 5th set.
If you would like to play in our Fixtures or are interested in coming down for a hit. Mackay Table Tennis is holding a Come ‘n’ Try Day on Saturday 27th September, during the School Holidays. Please see our Facebook Page for more details. Everyone is very welcome!
Contributed by Andrea Nicholson
Steve Whiting, Jacob Whelan, Goncalo Serra
Geoff Cowan, Allan Edwards
Melanie Theodore, Noreen Frederickson. Photos supplied
Last Saturday, the Bakers Creek Tigers Senior Women’s AFL team played at the Great Barrier Reef Arena and came away with a thrilling Grand Final victory. The Tigers faced off against the Moranbah Bulldogs and secured the win, marking another milestone for the local club.
Community Bank Sarina, major supporters of the Tigers, said, “Congratulations to the Bakers Creek Tigers AFL Women's team who took away the Grand Final Win last weekend! As major supporters of the club, we love seeing this local club go from strength to strength - well done ladies!”
The win caps off a remarkable season for the Tigers and highlights the growing strength and skill of women’s football in the region.
2025 Women's AFL Team - Bakers Creek Tigers. Photo source: Bakers Creek Tigers AFL (Facebook)
Over the last few weeks, Mackay parkrun has been a hotbed of record-breaking performances, with runners of all ages smashing personal bests and age category benchmarks at the community-run 5km event held every Saturday at 7am.
Age Category Milestones
Zoe Woodward celebrated her 250th parkrun while smashing her own SW30-34 Age Category Record by 16 seconds, setting a new benchmark of 18:55.
Tayah Manttan continued her remarkable form in the JW15-17 category, lowering her own record by a further 38 seconds to go sub-19 minutes, finishing in 18:54. Earlier reports also noted her previous achievement of trimming her record to 19:32 – a testament to her ongoing improvement.
New Course Record
Jared Havemann made history by becoming the first runner to complete Mackay parkrun in under 16 minutes. His blistering 15:54 finish equates to an average pace of 3:11/km, setting a new course benchmark for speed.
Other Age Category Records
Three additional age category records were set:
SM20-24 – Jared Havemann, 15:54
SW18-19 – Ella Chappell, 21:09
SW45-49 – Skye Perkins, 18:25
Congratulations to all runners for their exceptional performances and for keeping the Mackay parkrun community vibrant and inspiring.
Looking for a great way to kick off the weekend? Mackay parkrun welcomes everyone to walk, jog, or run 5km at their own pace – it’s fun, friendly, and completely free!
Over the past few weeks, Mackay parkrun has seen multiple runners smash personal and age category records, including a sub-16-minute course finish, highlighting the community event’s spirit, speed, and inclusivity. Photo source: Mackay Parkrun (Facebook)
Sunset Bay Outriggers have been on the road again, testing their skills against the best paddlers in North Queensland, with 17 paddlers making the seven-hour journey to Mission Beach.
And the club did not come home disappointed.
Both the men’s and women’s crews struck gold in the marathon races, overcoming challenging water conditions.
Conditions worsened for the Senior Master Mixed crew’s marathon, but they held on to claim a silver medal for their efforts.
The women paddlers made the most of the opportunity to enter as many 500m sprints as possible, giving them valuable training ahead of their Nationals campaign in November.
All women’s and men’s crews medalled across the weekend.
Paddlers of the Saturday, Kim Alloway and Nicole Reseck, rode the waves home to collect another gold in the OC2 4km.
In the OC1 4km event, Graham Townson took gold, Bryan Wilkinson secured gold, and Mark Bell earned bronze.
On Sunday, worsening wind and water conditions meant only the brave and the “Crazies” of outrigger racing took to the water in either a 20km or 12km course.
Sunset Bay paddlers once again rose to the challenge, with Bryan Wilkinson and Steph Lomas taking gold in the OC2 20km. In the OC1 12km, Andrew Batterson claimed silver and Peter Drew also earned silver. Wilkinson and Lomas were named Paddlers of the Sunday.
The club is now turning its focus to the Australian National Sprint Titles, to be held in Coomera from November 13–16.
To support the journey to Nationals, Sunset Bay is hosting a Trivia Night on Friday, October 24, at 6:30pm upstairs at Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club. Tickets are $25 per person and can be booked through Eventbrite.
Anyone wishing to help Sunset Bay’s senior and junior paddlers get to the Nationals can contact Renee on 0412 448 805.
Sunset Bay Outriggers paddled to multiple medals at Mission Beach and now look ahead to the National Sprint Titles in November. Photos supplied
Wet and windy conditions did not deter more than 30 runners who lined up for the Mackay Road Runners’ Jo’s 70 Steps 5km and 10km event from the Gordon White Library carpark.
The loop course featured the demanding hills of Pollock and High Streets for the 5km, with 10km competitors doubling up for an extra loop. Timekeepers Rohan Miles and Julie Whibley kept results on track despite the conditions.
In the handicap start 5km, Gail Mackie claimed first place ahead of Steve Hayles, Jo Hughes, Emily Hayles, Jim Perkins, Kayla Waugh and Judy Zahn. Judy’s effort was notable as she backed up from a Table Tennis Tournament the previous day and was due to compete in the championships’ final day that afternoon. Natasha and Craig Joynson crossed eighth and ninth consecutively, followed by Kim Saron, Leanne Connor and David Isbister. Judy also appreciated Craig’s help through a slippery section of the course.
The 10km runners faced two loops, with Jeff Pearce taking line honours from his handicap start, finishing three minutes clear of juniors Toby Rule and Max Miles. They were followed by Justin Rule, Jeremy Taylor, Andrew Wallace, Alan Zamparutti, Derek Woods, Clinton Mackie and Jared Mackie. Carolyn Mapes was the first female, finishing ahead of Jose Short, Andrew Short, Stephen Oberg and Ashley Miles.
Cool and wet conditions saw runners and volunteers pack up quickly, with thanks to all helpers including Ashley Miles, who assisted after completing his own race.
Next Sunday’s run will be a social 5km and 10km from Bluewater Quay at 4pm, scheduled around the Whitsunday Trail Running Festival in Airlie Beach and the start of school holidays. Members and non-members are welcome.
In out-of-town racing, junior athlete Toby Rule delivered outstanding results at the School Sport Australia National Cross Country. He finished as the third Queenslander, fifth Australian and sixth overall, winning gold in the team event and another gold in the 18–19 years relay. Toby now turns to the Track and Field season, competing at the ANQ North Queensland Championships in Townsville during the September holidays in the 3000m steeplechase, 800m, 1500m and 5000m. He will then race at the QRSS Championships in late October at the All Schools Nationals before trialling for the World Cross Country Championships in November, aiming for selection in the Australian Under-20 team. Balancing these commitments with his final year of school, Toby continues to impress with his dedication.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
(left to right) Justin Rule, Clinton Mackie, Jared Mackie, Steve Hayles, Derek Woods and Gail Mackie collectively display over $2,000 worth of running shoes
Veteran running legend Judy Zahn took on a hive of athletic activity over the weekend with a Saturday/Sunday Table Tennis Tournament and Mackay Road Runners 5km Sunday morning
Toby Rule and Justin Rule battle it out in Jo’s 70 Steps 10km at the halfway turnaround point
Natasha and Craig Joynson are always smiling as they cross the finish line in unison
Jeff Pearce finished a sensational 10km run via the Jo’s 70 Steps handicap start, a challenging event
Emily Hayles takes out 4th overall in the Jo’s 70 Steps Handicap start 5km. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse
Mackay’s mountain biking community turned up the gears for the Mackay Cycles XCO Series 2, with riders of all ages battling tough trails and clocking impressive times. The event, held on September 13, saw fast racing, strong finishes, and plenty of local pride across every grade.
In the E-Bike categories, Zac Schwarzrock dominated the men’s field, completing five laps in 1:30:45, while Mel Maddison-Stanton powered to victory in the women’s race.
The hotly contested A Grade saw Ethan Weiss edge out fellow riders with a four-lap time of 1:20:14 in the men’s race, while elite road and MTB rider Ruth Corset claimed the women’s crown in 1:21:27.
B Grade Men went to Max Teague, whose consistency across three laps earned him the top step, while Naomi Ballard topped the B Grade Women division. In C Grade Men, Camden Brownsey led the pack, finishing just ahead of Eddie Rose and Scott Bennett.
The D Grade Men race was won by Ethan Green, and in the women’s field Isabella Land rode strongly to secure first place.
Juniors showed off the sport’s exciting future. Oaklan Marwood impressed in the U13 Boys, while Toby Maitland raced clear in the U11 Boys and Stella Goodwill shone in the U11 Girls. The U9 Boys produced some of the closest racing of the day, with Sacha Sawtell just holding off Ged Rafferty by three seconds.
Photo source: Mad Mountain Bike Club
9th September 2025
Evening Fixtures
Division 1 – Fish (Mick Ruhl, Steven Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Bears (Lily Boland, Lee Brake, Josh Brown) 9-2. Josh coming back from 2 sets down to beat Mick 11-6 in tight 5 sets.
Birds (Emma Widdup, Geoff Denman, Trent Day) defeated Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) 8-3. Geoff having a massive 5 sets with Vince, coming out on top 11-9.
Division 2 – Cats (Duncan Treloar, Graham Brake, Will VanDaKaa) defeated Horses (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent) 10-1. Graham winning by the skin of his teeth against Janice 14-12 in 5th set.
Tigers (Allan Edwards, Geoff Cowan, Tony Bowman) defeated Dogs (Ivan Perkins, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) 9-2. Allan came out in front against Mark in 5 sets 11-6.
Cows (Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Yilin Jiang) 7-2. No 5 setters but there were some tight matches.
Division 3 – Stiga (Simon Hogan, Frank Caruana, Val Austin) defeated Tibhar (Craig VanDaKaa, Ross DeBoer, Rod Hamelink) 7-4. Simon won close 5 sets against Craig 12-10.
Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan, Melanie Theodore) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) 7-4. Liz and Logan won in 5 sets over Samuel and Melanie 11-5.
Morning Fixtures
Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan) drew level with Wolf Pack (Pam Joyce, Delma Knight) 6-6. Noreen won against Delma 11-5 in 5th set.
Tiger Paws (Tony Bowman, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) defeated Bear Claws (Kevin Abbott, Judy Zahn, John McGee) 10-2. Bryan battled through to win against John McGee 11-9 in 5th set.
Shark Attack (Andrea Nicholson, Marie Taylor, Peter Goodson) had a draw with Lion Kings (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher) 6-6. Veronica defeated Peter 11-8 in close 5 sets.
Division 2 – Panther Pace (Frank Caruana, Peter Taber, Gerry Synnott) defeated Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Ian Dodds) 8-4. Frank won a massive 5 sets over Ken 17-15.
Python Spin (Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell, Kim Daffy) defeated Rhino Charge (Pam Kuene, Josie Davis) 8-4. Kim made a great comeback from 2 sets down to win 11-8 over Pam in 5 sets.
Division 3 – Bat Serves (Cheryl Pearson, Thelma Caruana) had a draw with Spider Smashes (Myles Dutton, Laurie Bradshaw, Madge Saunders) 6-6. Cheryl won a close 5 sets over Laurie 11-8.
Captin Spins and Iron Rallies just played a round robin as there was 3 players verses 1.
Noreen Frederickson
Veronica Shepherd
Kim Daffy. Photos supplied
BRIDGE
Two team events were played last week. The Mackay Open Team and the Unders and Overs Team Events. Ten teams of four players competed in a full day competition in the Open Team event for Red Points.
Winners were the Brown Team - Frances Brown, Alan Brown, Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan only lost one game for the event. The Under and Overs Team event is an opportunity for Novices to play with more experienced players in a team competition. Mackay has arguably the best calendar of events for nurturing its new and emerging players in Queensland encouraging and supporting new members.
Winners of the event for 2025 were team Ramsden - Mary Rose Ramsden, Frances Brown, Geoffrey Patterson and Sandy Patterson.
Weekly Results
Monday 8 September 2025 – NWP Week 17 of 25 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia 2nd Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
3rd Pamela Finger / Ming Ting 3rd Annette Howe / Sue Mayer-Miller
4th Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 4th Victor Mason / Janet Hansen
Tuesday Evening 9 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Faye Wright / Marilin Robins 1st Andrew Canavan / Janine Rodgers
2nd Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan 2nd Christine Morrison / Glen Cocup
3rd Janet Hansen / Thelma Caruana 3rd Martin Pearce / Christopher Meyers
Wednesday 10 September 2025 – Under and Overs Team event 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
Team Names
1st Ramsden Mary Rose Ramsden, Frances Brown, Geoffrey Patterson, Sandy Patterson
2nd Mayer-Miller Sue Mayer-Miller, Noel Bugeia, Janelle Conroy, Martin Pearce
3rd Carless Robert Carless, Karen Caldwell, Victor Mason, Geoff Taylor
4th Hutchinson Faith Hutchinson, Josie Crowley, Barbara Tait, Christina Brady
Thursday Evening 11 September 2025 – 4Table One Winner Green Points
1st Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore 2nd Noel Bugeia / Terry Sheedy
3rd Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless 4th Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
Friday 12 September 2025 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger 2nd Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell
3rd Griffin Bancroft / Diane Stokes 4th David Ting / Ming Ting
5th Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 6th Joy Block / Thelma Caruana
Saturday 13 September 2025 –Mackay Open Teams Red Points
Team Names
1st Brown Alan Brown, Frances Brown, Janet Hansen, Diane Morgan
2nd Bugeia Noel Bugeia, Terry Sheedy, Robert Carless, Janelle Conroy
3rd Cruickshank Ian Cruickshank, Ian Gaskell, Adrian Westcott, Patricia Garner
4th O’Neill Julie O’Neill, Griffin Bancroft, Diane Stokes, Ann Whitmore
5th Harris Jan Harris, Susan Wright, Marilin Robins, Faye Wright
6th Ting David Ting, Ming Ting, Geoffrey Patterson, Sandy Patterson
Contributed by Joy Block
Geoff and Winners Janet, Diane, Alan, Francie. Photo supplied
The CiteCon Kingfishers soared to their second Porters Mitre 10 T20 Smash title on Saturday night, defeating the Gibbs Air & Refrigeration Crocs in a thrilling Grand Final at Great Barrier Reef Arena.
Led by captain Sam Vassallo, who won the toss and chose to bat first, the Kingfishers set the tone early in front of a lively crowd and online audience tuning into the Mackay Cricket Association’s livestream. The highly anticipated clash had been billed as a battle between the Kingfishers’ dominant run and the Crocs’ hunger to cause an upset – and it delivered every bit of drama expected of a championship decider.
The night, however, belonged to Zane Newton. Returning home to Mackay from Brisbane, where he plays with Northern Suburbs Cricket Club, Newton produced a match-winning performance with 46 runs and a wicket. His efforts earned him the Player of the Final award and ensured the Kingfishers’ crown remained firmly in place.
The triumph capped off an outstanding campaign for the Kingfishers, backed by team owners Bec and Brad Gardner from CiteCon, head coach Luke Kennedy, and a squad that combined consistent firepower with depth across the park. Their success confirmed the Kingfishers as the benchmark side of the competition, building on the momentum from their previous championship.
While the Kingfishers lifted the trophy, it was BTB Electrical Breakers’ Mitchell Wadsworth who walked away with the competition’s highest individual honour, being named Player of the Tournament. Wadsworth tallied 147 runs, including two half-centuries, and claimed 11 wickets – highlighted by an impressive five-wicket haul. His all-round brilliance across the six rounds made him an undeniable choice for the award.
Coaches also cast their votes for the Porters Mitre 10 T20 Smash Team of the Tournament, recognising 12 standout performers. Among those named were Kingfishers trio Vassallo, Jaxn Sign and rising under-20 talent Jack Law, alongside Crocs representatives Etienne Pretorius, Mahesh Rajaratne, Lane Kohler and Luke Jackson.
The CiteCon Kingfishers
Action from the Porters Mitre 10 T20 Smash series between the CiteCon Kingfishers and the Gibbs Air & Refrigeration Crocs at Great Barrier Reef Arena. Photo source: Mackay Cricket (Facebook)
Sarina’s shoreline was filled with energy and community spirit last month as the 2025 Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim drew strong crowds and picture-perfect conditions.
Hosted by Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club, the annual event featured five different runs – from the 1km dash through to the testing half marathon – as well as two new ocean swim distances of 1km and 2km. Proceeds from the day go directly to supporting the vital work of the volunteer Surf Lifesaving Club.
Returning as naming rights sponsor, Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank joined participants and supporters on the day, reflecting the important role local organisations play in bringing the event to life.
“You could not have asked for a better day for it! Well done to Sarina Surf Lifesaving Club for yesterday's Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim. We had a wonderful time and it was such a pleasure to see so many from our community out together – enjoying the beautiful sunshine and views on Sarina Beach. Thank you to our Branch Team, Board and scholarship recipients who were able to make it and join in on the fun!” Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank said.
Major sponsors Wilmar Sugar and Renewables and North Queensland Bulk Ports also backed the event, along with support from Ray White Rural Sarina, The Clubhouse Sarina Beach, Permanent Way Solutions, Mackay Regional Council and Rebel Nation.
Locals and visitors took part in runs and ocean swims under sunny skies at the 2025 Cruisin’ the Coast Sarina Beach Run & Ocean Swim. Photo source: Rebel Nation and Community Bank Sarina
Junior cricket is officially back, with players from U12 to U17 taking to the fields across Mackay, Sarina, and Proserpine for their eagerly anticipated season openers. With no senior fixtures scheduled this past weekend, it paved the way for a thrilling “Super Sunday” of junior cricket.
In Sarina, the U13 sides of Sarina and Souths were first to hit the field. Sarina picked up right where they left off last season, delivering a dominant run chase led by strong performances from Mackenna Jeffs and Beau Wallace. The home side bowled out Souths in just 17 overs to secure a comfortable victory.
Following the U13 clash, the U14s took centre stage. Souths, sent in to bat by Sarina, started strongly with Beau McPherson anchoring the innings with a well-crafted 63 off 70 balls. Souths posted a solid total of 6/134. Their bowlers then put on a disciplined display, keeping extras to a minimum and maintaining tight lines. Spencer, Jack, and Hunter each claimed two wickets as Souths held off a determined Sarina batting effort to claim the win — reinforcing their status as title contenders once again this season.
Over in Proserpine, all three fields were in full swing with matches being played on all three fields. Walkerston and Pinnacle made the trip up the highway to enjoy some classic Proserpine hospitality. In the U17 match, Walkerston claimed victory thanks to an explosive batting performance from Ayden Loader, who smashed an unbeaten 88 from just 67 deliveries. The home teams found success in the U12 and U13 matches, with young gun Matthew Hope celebrating his first half-century in the Mackay competition during the U13 game.
Mackay was not left out, hosted a full day of action, with Norths putting on a Hawaiian-themed Super Sunday fundraiser at Beaconsfield. Meanwhile, Harrup Park played host to the U15 matches.
Looking ahead, Round 2 of the junior competition will take place this Sunday before a short break for the school holidays. Term 4 promises even more action with the launch of the U11 competition, Wednesday night Master Blaster comp, and the return of the Friday afternoon Girls Heat League.
It’s not too late to get involved! Head to play.cricket.com.au to find your local club and register today.
Junior cricket returned in style across Mackay, Sarina, and Proserpine, with U12 to U17 players lighting up “Super Sunday” in a thrilling season opener. Photos supplied
Mackay’s BB Print Stadium turned into a cauldron of colour and noise last Saturday as all four Mackay Brothers sides lined up for the Rugby League Mackay & District 2025 Grand Finals – an achievement in itself, two years running.
The famous bagpipes heralded in a sea of blue supporters who roared their sides on across the day. By full-time, Brothers had claimed two premierships, while Moranbah and Souths ensured the spoils were shared.
Brothers’ day began in style with their Under 20s powering home to beat Wests Tigers 32–24. Trailing at the break, the young Fish surged late to complete an undefeated season under coach DC. “2025 Premiers! Down at halftime but never out of the fight – what a way to kick off Grand Final Day,” the club declared.
The momentum rolled on as the Brothers women’s team delivered a dominant 42–14 win over Moranbah Miners to claim their third straight premiership. It was a remarkable turnaround after struggling to field a side early in the year. “Three in a row – congrats ladies!” the club posted, calling the result “an absolute blinder in the grand final.”
Moranbah struck back in Reserve Grade with a powerful 40–6 victory over the minor premiers Brothers. The Miners crossed for seven tries – Dylan Womal bagging a double – with Callum Wilson nailing six conversions. “Despite the windy conditions, the Miners played a hard game in attack and defence, making the most of Brothers’ errors,” the club said. Dylan Womal’s standout performance earned him Player of the Game honours.
The stage was then set for the A Grade decider, where Souths Sharks toppled Brothers 24–6. Souths crossed four times through Blake Coombes, Marmin Barba (twice) and Jesuah Wini, while Brothers’ only try came via Thomas McNulty. Jared Maguire added the conversion. The Sharks also slotted a penalty goal and endured a sin-bin to Tyrese Parter but otherwise controlled the contest.
Brothers reflected proudly on an historic season. “For all four of our grades to make the grand final, two years running, is something truly special. We couldn’t be prouder of our players, coaches, managers, league safes, committee and everyone who makes Brothers the club it is.”
As the dust settles, the region can celebrate a day of finals footy that showcased resilience, skill, and the enduring passion of Mackay’s rugby league community
Brothers Under 20s celebrate their premiership win. Photos supplied
Brothers Women’s team crowned 2025 Premiers – their third straight title
Miners supporters in fine voice during Reserve Grade decider
Souths Sharks lift the A Grade trophy after their 24–6 win over Brothers
BOWLS
Ladies Pennant Season has now been completed, with all four divisions well represented again this year, with mixed results.
Division 1 this year has seen our ladies triumphant, placing first in this division. The ladies team will now travel to Emerald on the 20th September 2025 to represent the Mackay District, to play against the Leichhardt District (Zone 7). The very best of luck and great bowling to every one playing.
Our Division 4 ladies proudly won second place this year as well.
Thank you to all the district clubs for great camaraderie and friendship in all the games that were played.
Contributed by Sue Hazledine
Division 1
Division 2
Division 3
Division 4. Photos supplied
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BRIDGE
Monthly incentive awards are given by the committee to players as an encouragement to play more and learn more.
Winners were Martin Pearce, Laura Howland, Adrian Westcott, Sue Mayer-Miller, Karen Cadwell, Joy Block, Jewel Schmidt, Martin Pearce, Chris Meyers, Sue Ross and Errol Morris. Congratulations and well done to all.
Weekly Results
Monday 1 September 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 1st Eric Goodchild / David Ting
2nd Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 2nd Diane Stokes / Eddie Kleise
Tuesday Evening 2 September 2025 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janet Hansen / Thelma Caruana 2nd Diane Stokes / Adrian Westcott
3rd John McGee / Mick King 4th Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
Wednesday 3 September 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris 2nd Victor Mason / John Ludkin
3rd Eric Goodchild / David Ting 3rd Geoff Taylor / Karen Cadwell
4th Josie Crowley / Barbara Tait 4th Debbie Ludkin / Diane Cox
Thursday Evening 4 September 2025 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Jan Harris / Terry Sheedy 2nd Martin Pearce / Simon Barnes
Friday 5 September 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen
2nd David Ting / Ming Ting 2nd Diane Stokes / Griffin Bancroft
3rd Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 3rd Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
Saturday 6 September 2025 –9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin 1st Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd Joy Block / Faye Wright 2nd Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Patricia Garner / Robert Carless
4th Griffin Bancroft / Gwen Liddell 4th Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
Contributed by Joy Block
Martin Pearce, Laura Howland
Adrian Westcott, Sue Mayer-Miller
Karen Cadwell
Joy Block, Jewel Schmidt
Martin Pearce, Chris Meyers, Sue Ross and Errol Morris. Photos supplied
On Monday, 1st September, St Patrick’s College Chess teams competed at the MCC Junior Campus for the final Gardiner Chess Interschool Competition of the year. With more than 45 students across 12 teams taking part, chess at the College continues to grow from strength to strength.
The College’s Premier team has once again secured a spot at the State Titles in Term 4, set to face off against Queensland’s top players. The community eagerly anticipates seeing their talent on display.
Special recognition was given to the Year 12 seniors, whose leadership and dedication have been key to the development and success of chess at St Patrick’s College. As they prepare to graduate, their contributions, along with the memories, merits, and medals earned, will be fondly remembered.
Well done to all students for a fantastic season.
St Patrick’s College Chess teams ended the year strong, with the Premier team qualifying for State Titles and Year 12 seniors recognised for their leadership. Photo source: St Patrick's College Year 7-12 Mackay (Facebook)
Last weekend, the Mackay Rowing Club hosted the second annual Head of the Pioneer 10-kilometre regatta at Pleystowe, bringing together crews from across the region for a challenging day on the water.
Despite strong winds that tested every competitor, the event was a celebration of skill, determination, and community spirit. Crews from Townsville, Ruway, Ju, and Helro joined Mackay’s own rowers for the rolling-start race, which began at the river’s weir, included a turnaround, and finished across the river near the club.
Club President Cameron Slack reflected on the appeal of rowing for locals.
“Rowing is a sport you can keep doing forever. Older members in our clubs, 60, 70, are going away to world championships, and having the opportunity to medal is pretty cool.”
Slack said the regatta also offered a rare chance for rowers from different towns to come together, compete, and enjoy the camaraderie.
“It’s just a great sport to be involved in, and it’s nice to see so many on the water.”
For many participants, rowing is about more than just competition. World Champion gold medalist Therese Clancy, who has been rowing since 2016, said she was encouraged to try the sport by a friend.
“I got hooked. It’s gentle on your body, and I’ve competed in Germany and at state nationals,” she said, reflecting on her journey in rowing.
“It’s been an amazing experience so far.”
Whitsunday Anglican School student Xavier Wheaton, a rower since 2020, described both the social and fitness benefits of the sport.
“I love rowing with friends… it’s such a great sport, and you can do it for a long time,” he said.
The race produced standout performances, with Mackay’s eight-person crew and Townsville’s double, Wayne and Mark, posting the fastest times. Despite the strong winds, the crews navigated the 10-kilometre course with determination, highlighting the skill and endurance required for competitive rowing.
Last weekend, Mackay Rowing Club hosted the second annual Head of the Pioneer 10K regatta at Pleystowe. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Young Joey Ball and Rookieball players are buzzing with excitement as they prepare for their grand finals on Saturday, 6th September. It promises to be a fun-filled day, with trophy presentations to follow after the games at 11.30am.
Under 14
Dragons Get the Power proved too strong for Dragons Tyre Power, running away with an 11–1 victory.
Levi Counsell impressed with three at-bats, crossing home plate each time. Teammates Sienna Kitto and Chloe Mackenzie showed patience at the plate, picking up two walks each and also scoring twice.
For Tyre Power, Lachlan Mickle was the sole run scorer. Audrey Hartl, Eleanor Wallace, and Shanya Steven all reached base on walks but were unable to add to the tally. In the field, Shanya and Audrey both took important catches to help keep the scoreline down.
With the win, Get the Power secured their place in the grand final.
B Ladies
The Dragon Slayers finished the season in 6th place, while the Pink Hawks secured 5th after taking out their clash 17–9.
The Slayers rotated positions for fun in their final match. Casey Hayes impressed at shortstop, putting her body on the line, assisting with outs, and collecting two safe hits. Eli Oldham and Audra Pollard also hit safely, while Erin Boulding stood out with three hits, including a massive home run to left field.
For the Hawks, Krystal Ford delivered four safe hits and a catch, while Darcy Dorsett pitched superbly, allowing just one walk, assisting three outs, and taking a catch. Out in left field, Zoe Knight was kept busy by the Slayers’ bats.
Elsewhere, Dr Flies defeated Golden Oldies 14–10 to book a finals clash with Arch Angel.
For Dr Flies, Lynn Hamett, Tina Teale, and Sarah Jurg all crossed the plate three times each, while Hannah Wallace delivered three big hits to left field. Tina also took three catches in the field.
Golden Oldies fought hard, with Donna Reid, Alison Poyner, and Narida Bates all scoring twice. Pitcher Trish Bueithe did a great job on the mound, while Donna Reid and Linda Parry also took catches.
B Men
In the men’s division, Custom recorded an 11–5 victory over Hawks Heavy Iron.
Heavy Iron struggled to convert their big outfield hits, with substitutes Peyton Barrow and Kacee Shultz making key catches for Custom. Mitchell Robbins, Heath Taylor, and Justin Locher each picked up two base hits, while Taylor, Warren Bekker, and sub Jess Martin also took catches.
Custom’s Matt Ramsamy and Gary Cunningham both crossed the plate four times, with Cunningham adding a home run. Scott Single contributed three solid hits to right field, while Darren Frew and Cameron Corbett added catches to round out the win.
The Hawks Heavy Iron will now face Dragons Ausgroup in the final.
Game times 6th September
930am Rookieball grand final
11am joey ball grand final
1130am presentation
1230pm u/14 Choas Angels v Dunbar Angels finals
230pm Heavy Iron v Ausgroup finals
230pm Arch angels v Dr flies finals
230pm xtreem angel v BCN
Good luck to all teams playing this weekend.
Contributed by Cheryl Martin
Local baseball teams gear up for grand finals this Saturday. Photos supplied
The Annual Mackay Road Runners Shields Stampede 5km and 12km has been a mainstay on the local running calendar for more than 30 years. The historic event, generously hosted by club life members Wendy and Merv Shields from their Mount Pleasant residence, has long challenged competitors with its undulating, twisting course through Beaconsfield and Andergrove before the descent back to the Karl Langer Crescent finish line.
Wendy and Merv have played an integral role in the longevity of the Mackay Road Runners, not only through the Shields Stampede but also as sponsors of other events, including the prestigious Eungella King and Queen of the Mountain.
As always, the post-race afternoon tea was a highlight, with Wendy providing an array of delicious snacks alongside tea and coffee. Random draw prizes were also awarded in the lead-up to Father’s Day. Thanks went to Zamp for donating Strategic Media Partners merchandise, which was well received by winners, while other lucky competitors took home Father’s Day-themed gifts that may have saved them a trip to the shops.
On the course, excellent performances were delivered across both distances. In the 12km, spectators witnessed a thrilling sprint finish as father-and-son duo Justin and Toby Rule crossed the line together, with the photo finish giving Justin the victory by the narrowest of margins. Third overall and first female was Alana Knezevic, who set a blistering pace to claim gold for the women, finishing ahead of Ashley Miles and Clinton Mackie, all breaking the one-hour barrier.
In the 5km, Roscoe McDonnell was a clear winner, finishing five minutes ahead of second overall and first female Gail Mackie. Jo Hughes and Emma Johnson rounded out the top four.
The club also acknowledged the achievements of members competing outside the region, including at the Sydney Marathon and personal challenges such as the 4x4x48 Goggins Challenge. Standout Sydney performances included Paul Mackenzie (2:58:15), Corey Gould (3:33), Leon Sant (3:44) and Jeff Shaw (4:16).
Special recognition went to Andrew Short, who was instrumental in ensuring the Shields Stampede went ahead after last-minute Ergon repair works disrupted the usual course. Andrew swiftly re-mapped the route to create a safe 5km and 12km track, organised signage, and updated maps, before completing the 12km run himself and then collecting the signage afterwards. His ongoing dedication — including maintaining club equipment — was praised by members, who described him as a true club legend.
Next on the calendar, the Mackay Road Runners will assist the crew at the Botanic Gardens Parkrun on Lagoon Street, West Mackay, for the pre-Father’s Day Parkrun this Saturday at 7am. Volunteers are asked to arrive by 6.30am for briefing. The club will not host its own event next Sunday in recognition of Father’s Day.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Mackay Road Runners long-serving members (left to right) – Jan Smith, Judy Zahn and Wendy Shields.
Alana Knezevic (left) and Alan Zamparutti get ready to race the 12km Shields Stampede.
Approx forty runners and supporters took part in the very popular annual Shields Stampede 5k & 12k.
Justin Rule (left) hits the tape by a whisker ahead of Toby Rule.
Emma Johnson and Jo Hughes catch up after the Shields Stampede 5km.
Carmel Mahon (centre) thanks timekeepers Julie Whibley (left) and Rohan Miles for their weekly efforts. Photo credit: Janelle TIlse
The Mackay Cutters faced challenging encounters over the weekend, with both the women's and men's teams experiencing defeats.
At BB Print Stadium in Mackay, the BMD Premiership women's team narrowly lost to the Western Clydesdales, 16–18. Despite tries from M. Powell (28'), J. Kimber (55'), and C. Tanner (61'), and two successful conversions by Emily Bella, the Cutters couldn't secure the win. The Clydesdales responded with tries from K. Jackson (14'), K. Taylor (24'), and M. Prentice (47'), along with three conversions from R. Beardmore and Z. Cook.
Meanwhile, the Hostplus Cup men's team traveled to Redcliffe for round 23, where they suffered a 16–34 loss to the Dolphins. The Cutters struggled in the first half, trailing 0–20 at the break. However, they regrouped and matched the Dolphins in the second half, showcasing resilience despite the final scoreline.
Mackay Meteorettes standout Unique Thompson has claimed the 2025 NBL1 North Women’s Most Valuable Player award after another dominant season. She also took home the titles of NBL1 North scoring champion and earned a spot on the All-Star First Team. Her meteoric impact was undeniable.
Thompson’s stat line was among the league’s most impressive. She led the conference in scoring with 23.2 points per game and grabbed a league-best 15.3 rebounds per game—a commanding double-double average. Her numbers made her an offensive and rebounding force unmatched across the NBL1 North.
Her standout performances were not limited to regular season stats. In a thrilling showdown against the Sunshine Coast Phoenix, Thompson delivered a 30-point, 13-rebound double-double to help seal a tight 92–89 win for the Meteorettes. That game, filled with lead changes and tension, showcased Thompson’s ability to elevate her game when it mattered most.
This MVP recognition further cements Thompson’s growing reputation—not just as a scoring machine, but as a leader and game-changer for Mackay. With her sights now set on the WNBL, this season will be remembered as a defining chapter in her rising basketball journey.
MACKAY TABLE TENNIS FIXTURE RESULTS - 26th August 2025
Tuesday Evening Fixture
Division 1 – Fish (Mick Ruhl, Steven Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) 9-2. Great doubles match between Mick / Steven won over Barry / Vince 11-9 in 5th Set.
Bears (Goncalo Serra, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) defeated Birds (Trent Day, Emma Widdup, Anne Sheridan) 8-3 with Emma having a massive 5 Set match with Lee and she won 13-11.
Division 2 – Tigers (Allan Edwards, Geoff Cowan, Allan Robins) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Rymer Tabulo, Yilin Jiang) 9-2. Andrea came back from 2 sets down to win over Geoff 11-9 in 5 Sets.
Horses (Syed Animul Hossain, Donna Abbott, Ollie Hamelink) defeated Cows (Steve Mathieson, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) 6-5. Both doubles matches went to 5 Sets, Syed / Donna won against Graeme / Ian 11-8.
Dogs (Geoff Denman, Peter Goodson) defeated Cats (Duncan Treloar, Will VanDeKaa) 3-2. Geoff won very close 5 Sets over Duncan 12-10.
Division 3 – Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan, Melanie Theodore) defeated Stiga (Val Austin, Coral Morgan, Josie Davis) 7-4. Val / Coral winning massive 5 sets over Melanie / Samuel 11-9.
Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDeKaa, Marie Taylor) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) 8-3. Marie defeating Liz 11-7 in the 5th Set.
Tuesday Morning Results
Division 1 – Wolf Pack (Steve Mathieson, Virginia Clayton, Pam Joyce) defeated Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) 8-4 with Kevin sneaking through against Steve to win 5th Set 11-9.
Shark Attack (Doug Dungavell, Marie Taylor, Peter Goodson) defeated Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic), Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan) 7-5. Branko / Noreen won in 5 Sets over Peter /Doug 11-5.
Tiger Paws (Allan Robins, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) defeated Lion Kings (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher) 9-3 with Veronica winning against Bryan 11-6 in the 5th Set.
Divison 2 – Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, John Hamelink, Ian Dodds) defeated Python Spin (Robyn Giles, Kim Daffy, Robyn Bushell) 9-3. Kim won tight 5 Sets against Ken 11-8.
Rhino Charge (Peter Taber, Josie Davis) defeated Panther Pace (Frank Caruana, Gerry Synnott) 7-2. Peter / Josie won against Frank / Gerry 12-10 in 4 Sets.
Division 3 – Captin Spins (Sharon Muller, Allison Day) defeated Bat Serves (Cheryl Pearson, Glenda Brooks) 5-4. Allison won in tight 5 Sets over Cheryl 11-8.
Spider Smashers and Iron Rallies played a round robin as there was only 3 players. Laurie defeated Madge over 11-5 in 5 Sets.
Emma Widdup
Andrea Nicholson. Photos supplied
On Monday 18 August and Wednesday 20 August the Marian ladies held their annual Master 4's. This started with 15 teams - 60 ladies - on Monday with the top 4 teams going into Wednesday. There were many very close games during the first day with lots of laughter and good sportsmanship shown.
The eventual winners were Airlie Beach from North Mackay in a great game of bowls.
Contributed by Lyn Jackson
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This weekend, the Mackay community will once again come together in a powerful show of unity at this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival, with every pedal stroke helping to support two vital local organisations – BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.
Kate Sommerville, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, highlighted BMA’s long-standing commitment to the Mackay community.
“Every rider at this year’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival reflects the strength and spirit of our community. Whether riding for rescue services, disability inclusion, or in honour of someone special, this event is about supporting causes that matter most in our region.
“When our industry thrives, so do the communities where we work. While it’s no secret that mining is under pressure from global market conditions and the Queensland Government’s unsustainable coal taxes, BMA remains deeply committed to Mackay and regional Queensland.”
Now celebrating its 15th year, the festival has become one of Mackay’s most loved community sporting events, attracting hundreds of cyclists of all ages and abilities to ride together while raising vital funds for BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay.
Registrations are still open, and proceeds from every entry directly benefit BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay, ensuring the event’s impact continues well beyond the ride weekend.
With rides ranging from family-friendly distances to longer endurance challenges, the event provides an opportunity for everyone aged 3yrs+ to get involved across 2 great days – whether on a bike (or if you’re 12 and under jump on your scooter instead), cheering from the sidelines, or simply showing support.
This weekend, Mackay’s BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival unites the community, raising funds for BMA CQ Rescue and Disabled Sport & Rec Mackay. Photos supplied
Twenty-two Mackay players competed in the Yeppoon Congress last Weekend. Frances and Alan Brown won the A Grade Pairs, with Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris winning the B Grade Pairs. Alan and Frances Brown joined by Janet Hansen and Diane Morgan also took out the A Grade Team event. B Grade Teams event was won by team Harris, Jan Harris, Helen Van Den Broek, Martin Pearce and Hilary Gunthorp. All players played extremely well in the Red point events.
Weekly Results
Monday 25 August 2025 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
2nd Janine Rodgers / Jewel Schmidt 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
3rd Jennifier Cameron / Joy Hold 3rd Christine Fitzpatrick / Colleen Riddel
Tuesday Evening 26 August 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Thelma Caruana 1st Christine Morrison / Glen Cocup
2nd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Terry Sheedy
Wednesday 27 August 2025 – Australian Wide Open Pairs 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Eric Goodchild / David Ting 1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd Joy Block / Diane Stokes 2nd Geoff Taylor / Karen Cadwell
3rd Anne Howe / Susan Ross 3rd Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
4th Geoffrey Patterson / Sandy Patterson 4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen
Thursday Evening 28 August 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Ian Cruickshank / Adrian Westcott 2nd Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
Friday 29 August 2025 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
2nd Karen Cadwell / Gwen Liddell 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Edward Kliese / Nancy Wix 3rd Janine Rodgers / Adrian Westcott
Saturday 30 August 2025 –6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st David Ting / Ming Ting 2nd Janine Rodgers / Mick King
3rd Geoff Taylor / Karen Cadwell 4th Gwen Liddell / Griffin Bancroft
Contributed by Joy Block
Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris - Yeppoon B Grade Winning Pair
Mackay players celebrate after a winning weekend at Yeppoon. Photos suppl
Mackay roared with the thrill of international cricket over the weekend, as the BKT Tyres ODI series between Australia and South Africa delivered both heartbreak and historic triumphs at the Great Barrier Reef Arena. Our coastal city proved it could host world-class sport, with fans witnessing performances that will be talked about amongst cricket fanatics for generations to come.
The series opened on Friday night, August 22, with a tense contest, as South Africa silenced the home crowd, clinching an 84-run victory to take a 2-0 lead. Choosing to bat first, the Proteas posted a competitive 277, anchored by Matthew Breetzke’s fluent 81 and Tristan Stubbs’ composed 74. Australia’s bowlers shared the wickets, with Xavier Bartlett continuing his impressive start in national colours, and leg-spinners Adam Zampa and Marnus Labuschagne claiming five between them.
Australia’s reply faltered early, slipping to 3-38, before Josh Inglis ignited the innings with a spirited 87 – his highest score at home. Yet, when Lungi Ngidi (5-42) removed Inglis, Australia’s momentum collapsed, and South Africa extended their remarkable run to five consecutive ODI series wins over the Aussies.
But Mackay’s cricket faithful had reason to cheer on Sunday, August 24, witnessing a performance for the ages. Australia amassed a record 2-431, their highest ODI total on home soil, with Travis Head (142), Mitchell Marsh (100), and Cameron Green (118 off 55 balls) all striking centuries – the first time in men’s ODI history Australia’s top three have achieved this feat. Green’s explosive maiden ton, featuring eight sixes, had the crowd on its feet, while Alex Carey added a brisk unbeaten 50.
South Africa never recovered, bowled out for just 155 in 25 overs. Youngster Cooper Connolly capped the night with a dream debut, claiming a maiden five-wicket haul (5-22). Australia’s 276-run triumph, their second-largest ODI victory, salvaged pride and offered Mackay spectators a front-row seat to cricketing history, even as South Africa secured the series 2-1.
Ahead of the clash, Cameron Green reflected on the team’s approach.
“I think we’ve all played enough cricket now and hopefully we can read the situation really well… I think we know that we like to play a pretty positive brand of cricket.”
On playing in Mackay, he added, “It’s lovely to be up here… The wicket looks like a beauty… and I think it’ll be a terrific game.”
Adrienne Young, CEO of Great Barrier Reef Arena, highlighted the broader significance of hosting international cricket.
“It’s the pathway we’re on to hopefully be a venue at the Olympics… I’m really passionate about Harrup Park, and the Great Barrier Reef Arena… to build this into an Olympic venue, grow cricket as a sport in the region, and help other sports develop facilities and community programs.”
On the importance of fostering regional sporting stars, Mr Young says, “You can’t be what you can’t see.”
“It’s just wonderful that there’ll be young boys and girls here who’ll be able to see not only players… but their icons right here in our region.”
While the weekend was a sell-out, Young acknowledged challenges, particularly in accommodation, noting plans are underway with regional stakeholders to ensure Mackay is ready for future international events.
Mackay’s cricketing weekend may have delivered both heartbreak and heroics, but the city’s rising stature on the global stage was undeniable. From record-breaking centuries to dream debuts, the Great Barrier Reef Arena proved that this regional hub is keen to host world-class cricket, and perhaps, one day, the Olympics.
Mackay made history as the Great Barrier Reef Arena hosted Australia and South Africa in a thrilling ODI series, delivering heartbreak, heroics, and record-breaking moments. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Mackay SLSC “Guardians of Harbour Beach since 1950” are kicking off the start of their season with a Sign On Day, Sunday the 31st of August from 9am – 11am at the surf club located at Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach.
The Surf Club is holding “come and try” days for the whole of September. With surf education, fitness and beach skill activities, as well as a whole lot of fun being held from 8.45am each Sunday.
The Nipper’s family will provide stinger suits, boards and all other equipment needed to get involved. Just bring your togs, sunscreen and a towel, plus Mum and Dad.
“We had a really fun season last year, it was great to see our nippers grow not only in numbers but also in their individual confidence in the surf and with learning about being a lifesaver” said Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports.
“Our parent helpers are fantastic as well, getting involved with their children and building our club culture. It really is a family orientated and welcoming sport.”
Nippers is a surf development program catering for children aged from 5 – 14 years, after which they move into the Junior and Senior lifesaving ranks. A typical Nippers morning will involve a structured warm-up and surf education such as signals, rescue techniques and reading the surf for rips or stingers (which we get very rarely), beach training such as flag / beach races and relays, then water-based activities that are age appropriate. The morning finishes with a family sausage sizzle at the canteen where all nipper families catch up.
The club has a focus on developing skills from our youngest children up to our older teenagers and starts with play-based confidence and skill activities for the young ones which progresses to surf sports competition training for more advanced lifesavers.
If you or your family are interested in finding out more about being a nipper, come along and try!
If you would like any more information, please contact the Junior Activity Coordinator Lexie Schiffer on juniors@mackayslsc.com.au
"We hope to see you at the Beach!"
Contributed by Josh Grant
Nippers is all about fun, friends, confidence and surf safety, with the Mackay Surf Club Nipper Family ready for another ripper season at Harbour Beach. Photos supplied
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District Champ Of Champ Triples
The District Champ of Champ Triples were played across two days at the Marian Bowls Club, beginning Wednesday, 13th August, with the final contested on Thursday, 14th August 2025.
The final saw Airlie Beach face off against North Mackay in a thrilling clash full of surprises, skill, and steady nerves. Heading into the last end it was anyone’s game, but Airlie Beach held firm to secure victory by just one point. Congratulations to all who took part in this district event, with special mention to Airlie Beach on their hard-fought win over a determined North Mackay side.
District Master Fours 2025
The District Master Fours followed at Marian Bowls Club, with semi-finals on Monday, 18th August, and the final on Wednesday, 20th August 2025.
Once again, the last match came down to Airlie Beach and North Mackay, showcasing a wealth of talent from across the region. The North Mackay ladies – Lois Deguara, Deb Mackenzie and Isla Comelli – were joined by St Helen’s bowler Joyce Bloomfield in a determined battle to the finish. However, Airlie Beach proved too strong in the closing ends, claiming victory.
Congratulations to Airlie Beach on their success, and to all competitors in the Master Fours who represented their clubs with pride.
Contributed by Sue Hazledine
Winners from Airlie Beach in blue, with Runners up from North Mackay: Nug Pratt,Marie Bragg,Val DePinto
Runners up: Deb Mackenzie, Lois Deguara, Isla Comelli, Joyce Bloomfield. Photos supplied
Mackay Table Tennis Fixture Results
Mackay Table Tennis Association had some incredible matches on Tuesday, August 19. Trent Day has had an exceptional year, improving every week and showing his talent by winning all of his matches. He went head-to-head with his grandad, Barry Patterson, in a family war that saw both play a blinding match, with Trent coming out victorious in the 5th set, 12–10.
Division 1 – Fish (Goncalo Serra, Steve Whiting, Jacob Whelan) defeated Bears (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) 10-1 with Steve snuck home in a close 5 sets with Lily 11-8.
Birds (Trent Day, Emma Widdup, Anne Sheridan) defeated Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) in tight finish 6-5, as mentioned above about Trent and Barry’s match.
Division 2 – Tigers (Allan Edwards, Geoff Cowan, Allan Robins) defeated Cats (Duncan Treloar, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) 8-3 there were no 5 set matches but Duncan and Will beat The Allan’s 12-10 in 4th Set.
Cows (Geoff Deman, Graeme Walker, Ian McKay) defeated Dogs (Janice Kent, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) 8-3, Ian beating Mark in close 5 sets, 11-7.
Horses (Donna Abbott, Syed Aminul Hossain, Ollie Hamelink) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Rymer Tabulo, Yilin Jiang) 6-5 with Yilin winning a great 5 sets against Donna, 11-9.
Division 3 – Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) 6-5 with Mark had close 4 sets with Noreen 11-8.
Stiga (Simon Hogan, Val Austin, Vincent Neuhauf) defeated Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDeKaa, Marie Taylor) 9-2, Val come back from 2 sets down against Craig to win 11-8 in 5th set.
Contributed by Andrea Nicholson
Superstar Junior, Trent Day. Photo supplied
Over thirty runners and supporters gathered for the Blacks Beach Bush Bash (BBBB), with competitors tackling the 5km and 10km courses in cool, ideal conditions. Thanks to timekeeper Rohan Miles and course setup team Andrew Short, Len Howarth, and David Isbister, the event ran smoothly – without even the usual “lost runner” hiccup.
President Paul Tilse thanked volunteers for their efforts and reminded members that there will be no Mackay Road Runners event on Father’s Day, Sunday 7th September. Instead, members are encouraged to join the 5km Parkrun at the Botanic Gardens on Saturday 6th September, where the Club is on the volunteer roster.
On the 10km course, ultramarathoner Mick Vivian claimed first place, followed by Jared Mackie, John Rae, Levi Wallace, Ashley Miles, Clinton Mackie, Michael Feenaghty, Jeremy Taylor, and Max Miles. Birthday girl Rhian Massey was the first female across the line, finishing tenth overall, with strong runs from Jose Short, Carmel Mahon, Gail Mackie, Tahnie Malagueno, Carolyn Mapes, Jo Hughes, and Judy Zahn. In the 5km, Roscoe McDonnell overcame a niggling injury to take the win ahead of David Isbister, Leanne Connor, Ross Connor, and Fran March.
This Sunday, the popular Shield’s Stampede will kick off at 4pm from 21 Karl Langer Crescent, Mt Pleasant, hosted by life members Merv and Wendy Shields. The 5km and 12km run includes post-race snacks, Father’s Day prize draws, and check-in by 3.50pm sharp.
Club Captain Jim Ford continues to offer free Wednesday track training at 5.30pm at the ARC, open to all with a $4 entry fee.
Approximately thirty runners and supporters including Club Patron, Mr Col Meng (left) enjoyed the BBBB 5k and 10k this morning
Michael Feenaghty (left), Jeremy Taylor (centre) and Darrin Pullen (right) battle it out before hitting the off road section in the 10km BBBB
Mick Vivian (right) is congratulated on his 1st placing in the 10km BBBB by Fran Marsh (left) and Jo Hughes (centre.
Roscoe McDonnell ran a sensational first place in the 5km BBBB. Photos and words supplied by Janelle Tilse
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Another stellar week at the bridge table saw Debra and Eric Goodchild take out the B4 Red Points event. The final week of the Anne Hird Memorial Trophy for Novices wrapped up after three weeks of play, with three different winners, and a deserving champion in Sandy Patterson.
Sandy, a novice player, has steadily honed her skills, embraced new conventions, and expanded her bridge knowledge with dedication and determination. She perfectly reflects Anne Hird’s passion for supporting novice players and encouraging their growth in the game.
Anne’s husband, David, proudly presented the trophy to Sandy and her partners.
Weekly Results
Tuesday Evening 19 August 2025 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 2nd Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
3rd Patricia Garner / Sandra Morris 4th Mick King / John McGee
Wednesday 20 August 2025 – Anne Hird Memorial Trophy Week 3 of 3 Novice event 10 Table Mitchell
N/S E/W
1st Annette Howe / Frances Brown 1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Colleen Riddel
2nd David Hird / Terry Sheedy 2nd Alan Brown / Jewel Schmidt
3rd Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson 3rd Janet Hansen / Susan Ross
4th Susan Gibson / Sandra Morris 4th Anne Lutz / Diane Cox
Final Results – Anne Hird Memorial Trophy
1st Sandy Patterson 2nd Jewel Schmidt 3rd Andrew Canavan 4th Martin Pearce
Thursday Evening 21 August 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 2nd Geoff Taylor / Richard Wix
Friday 22 August 2025 – 6 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Terry Sheedy / Richard Wix 2nd Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
3rd Ian Gaskell / Geoffrey Patterson 4th Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
Saturday 23 August 2025 – B4 Week 2 of 2 - 8 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette 2nd Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
3rd Frances Brown / Alan Brown 3rd Martin Pearce / Sandy Patterson
4th Geoff Taylor / Terry Sheedy 4th Jewel Schmidt / Annette Howe
Final Results of the B4 – Red Points
1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 2nd Terry Sheedy / Geoff Taylor
3rd Ian Gaskell / Errol Morris 4th Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Broek
Sunday 24 August 2025 Mentors and Novice –
N/S E/W
1st Christine Morrison / Rodney Miles 1st Debra Goodchild / Annette Howe
2nd Geoff Taylor / Andrew Canavan 2nd Susan Gibson / Jan Harris
3rd Joyce Deguara / Janice Mansfield 3rd Diane Stokes / Jayne Johnston
Contributed by Joy Block
SWIMMING
Four rising talents from Mackay Cyclones Swimming Club have made waves on the national stage, earning recognition both in and out of the pool.
Dakota Daniel, Ava Kearns, Isabelle Daniel, and Montana Townley recently returned from the 2025 State Short Course Championships with impressive results, while a fellow Cyclone Anisa Helou has been named as one of just 18 recipients of the prestigious Hancock Prospecting Patron Scholarship.
The scholarship program, awarded to swimmers aged 13–18, provides financial and developmental support to assist with training and competition. Helou will now be part of the Olympic Pathway, representing North Queensland alongside Townsville’s Coby McCloskey.
On the competition front, Dakota collected a series of top-ten finishes, including bronze in the 200m freestyle, fourth in both the 200m butterfly and 400m freestyle, fifth in the 400m individual medley, seventh in the 100m freestyle and 200m IM, and ninth in the 100m butterfly.
Ava placed inside the top ten in three events – 10th in both the 100m butterfly and 100m IM, and ninth in the 200m IM – while Isabelle claimed ninth in the 100m backstroke.
Montana also impressed, achieving personal best times in seven of her eight events, alongside 11-year-old Isabelle Daniel, who competed in her very first SC championships.
The club also acknowledges all the efforts of Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier who guides all the swimmers through their preparation and competition schedule.
SOFTBALL
With just one or two weeks remaining in the season, teams are preparing for finals, with the grand final set for 13th September. The B Ladies will kick off their finals campaign next weekend on 30th August.
Another tied game for the U14 teams ended in a 6-all draw between Dragons Get the Power and Angels North Jacklin Chaos. The young players have made remarkable progress since the start of the season. Dragons’ Connor Doolan got on base twice and scored each time, while Boyd Baxter took a catch and recorded 5 strikeouts while pitching. For Chaos, Ashlyn Ireland led at bat with two walks, pitched 3 strikeouts, and took a catch. Maycee Dolgner also contributed with two walks to cross home plate, while Jarvis Locher scored a home run on errors.
Golden Oldies 9, Dragon Slayers 4
Tanya Baker and Antoinette James each took a catch for the Oldies, while Tabitha Dickson recorded six assisted outs at first base. Donna Reid, Alison Poyner, and Antoinette James excelled at bat, advancing runners every time. For the Dragons, Audra Worth had a strong performance both at bat and in the field with seven assisted outs. Eli Oldham and Erin Boulding also delivered big hits to the outfield to score runs.
Dragons Devils 11, Angels Custom 4
Dane Snell and Ryan Ritcher each hit a home run for the Devils. Snell also took two catches, while Flynn Ritchie contributed seven assisted outs at first base to keep the Custom score down. Custom’s Matt Ramsamy and Elijah Gibbs took catches, with Matt assisting on four outs. Ben O’Brien had two solid hits to the outfield, while Darren Frew and Gary Cunningham worked the bases with timely walks.
Pink Hawks 23, Storm 7
Kym Lock, Judy Kimlin, and Michelle Scott helped their team on base with walks and solid hits. Scott and Tracey McCauley each took a catch for Storm. Katrina Whittaker had four strong centre outfield hits, crossing home each time, with Julie Hankin adding three more outfield hits. Bec Flynn contributed with two catches and four assisted outs to secure the win.
Evie Grace is currently representing U16 Australia on the development tour in Tokyo, returning just in time for finals and the grand final. She will also compete in the U18 State Championship in Cairns from 20th to 22nd September, alongside Miley Barrow and Tiffany Martin.
The U18 boys will travel to Rockhampton for championships in combination with Hervey Bay from 20th to 22nd September. B Ladies finals begin Saturday 30th August, Joe Ball and Rookieball grand finals on 6th September, and all other grand finals on 13th September.
Contributed by Cheryl Martin
Softball finals kick off soon, with the grand final on 13th September and standout players like Evie Grace returning from international duty. Photos supplied
CRICKET
As international cricket prepares to tee off in Mackay, local U20 cricketers are sharpening their skills and soaking up the excitement.
Marcus Sammut, aged 17, reflected on the upcoming Australia vs South Africa matches, saying, “It’s really good—especially for a regional area. This hasn’t happened in Mackay before, which is awesome.”
He added, “It’s inspiring to see how hard Mackay players train. We’ve got great facilities here, and hosting games like Australia vs South Africa really shows that.”
Jack Law, aged 16, is equally motivated.
On his ambitions, he said, “I definitely hope to play internationally. I’ll keep working hard to make it to the Australian team… it would be amazing.”
When asked about playing locally, he said, “It’s great to spend a few hours with your mates on the weekend… the facilities are really good and always well maintained.”
Offering advice to other young players, Jack said, “Just come along and make as many friends as possible. Cricket is a team sport, so getting to know people is important.”
Both Jack and Marcus are taking part in pre-season training at the Great Barrier Reef Arena, refining techniques and preparing for the next level.
One of the four academy coaches, Chris Nemitz, said, “We saw a gap between the senior players and the junior competition, so we wanted to create something to keep the kids in the game during the off-season.
“These young men and women are very talented, and the more they play, the better they'll become.”
On the impact of international cricket visiting the region, he added, “There's nothing like seeing live cricket.
“Watching international players here shows the skill and effort required to reach that level – the things you just don’t see on TV.
“It’s an amazing opportunity for the kids and young adults to learn and be inspired.”
Female cricketer Kiana Dunn, one of the few girls’ in the academy, is making the most of the experience.
“It's just fun. I love fielding, batting, bowling—it's great to be with friends doing something we all love.”
Her advice to other young players is to, “Just have fun, enjoy it, and play as long as you can.”
“The international games will be really good—getting to see all the experienced players, talking to them about how they got there, what they did, and how we can learn from them. And of course, just watching some really good cricket,” she said.
With world-class cricket taking place on local grounds, the next generation of international stars could very well be nurtured right here in our own region, turning opportunity into reality on Mackay’s pitches.
Mackay’s U20 cricketers are sharpening their skills, with local grounds shaping the next generation of international stars. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
BMX
Mackay riders were in fine form at last weekend’s R7 & R8 of the Queensland State Series, held at the Cairns BMX Club. Competitors from across the region tested their speed and skill on the challenging track, with Mackay’s young riders producing some standout performances and claiming multiple top finishes.
Round 8 Results:
11 Girls
12 Girls
13 Boys
14 Girls (Merged)
45-49 Men (40-44 Men)
Cruiser 11-12 Boys
Mackay riders delivered a string of top finishes at last weekend’s R7 & R8 Queensland State Series in Cairns, showcasing speed, skill, and standout performances across multiple age groups. Photo source: Mackay and District BMX Club Inc (Facebook)
Mackay Table Tennis Match Results – 12th August 2025
Tuesday Morning Fixtures
Division 1 – Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan) defeated Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, John McGee, Kevin Abbott) 8-4. Kevin had a massive day with three 5 setters and saved the best for last coming back from 2 sets down to take the win over Branko 11-7.
Tigers Paws (Allan Robins, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) defeated Shark Attack (Doug Dungavell, Peter Goodson, Marie Taylor) 8-4 with Bryan winning in 5 sets over Marie 11-6.
Lion Kings (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher) had a draw with Wolf Pack (Pam Joyce, Steve Mathieson, Virginia Clayton) 6-6. Steve won massive 5 set match against Veronica 11-9
Division 2 – Python Spin (Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell, Kim Daffy) drew with Panther Pace (John Pratt, Pam Keune, Gerry Synnott) 6-6 with Robyn and Pam having a tuff battle Robyn winning 11-9 in 5th Set.
Rhino Charge (Daryl Ross, Kim Challendar, Josie Davis) defeated Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, John Hamelink) 9-3. Ken won great battle against Kim 12-10 in 5th Set.
Division 3 – Captin Spins (Sharon Muller, Glenda Dutton, Allison Day) defeated Spider Smashers (Laurie Bradshaw, Madge Saunders, Myles Dutton) 8-4 with Myles winning the family battle against Glenda 13-11 in 5th Set.
Bat Serves (Peter Taber, Glenda Brookes) defeated Iron Rallies (Ron Johr, Trish Zamparutti) 5-4 with no 5 set matches but Trish winning over Glenda 11-6 in 4th Set.
Tuesday Night Fixtures
Division 1 – Bears (Lily Boland, Josh Brown, Lee Brake) defeated Ants (Barry Patterson, Robbie Richards, Vince Boeske) 7 to 4 with Josh defeating Barry 13-11 in the 5th Set
Fish (Mick Ruhl, Geoff Denman) defeated Birds (Anne Sheridan, Trent Day) 6-3, Mick and Geoff come back from 2 sets down to win 11-6 in the 5th Set.
Division 2 – Cats (Duncan Treloar, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Yilin Jiang, Josie Davis) 8-3. Yilin won a massive 5th Set against Will 11-9.
Horses (Ollie Hamelink, Syed Aminul Hossain, Donna Abbott) defeated Dogs (Janice Kent, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) 6-5 with Syed winning Mark 11-7
Tigers (Geoff Cowan, Allan Edwards, Allan Robins) defeated Cows (Graeme Walker, Ian McKay, Steve Mathieson) 7-4 with (Daryl Ross, Vincent Neuhauf, Val Austin) defeated Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Melanie Theodore, Samuel Whelan) 7-4. Samuel won in 4 sets over Daryl to win 11-9.
Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) defeated Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDeKaa, Rod Hamelink) 9-2 with Liz winning tight 5 set match against Craig 12-10.
Mackay athletics club continues to celebrate the dedication and progress of its athletes as they strive for excellence on the track. Each week, athletes are recognised for achieving personal bests (PBs), with special awards presented for every 10 PBs reached.
On the 10th of August, club Vice President and Athlete Experience Officer Tammy Meyer proudly presented the latest batch of PB milestone awards.
Congratulates to Blake, Dharman, Sharity, Quinn, Matilda and Marlee for their outstanding efforts.
The club wishes all athletes continued success in their training and competitions.
Results:
10 PBs - Blake
20 PBs - Dharman, Sharity
30 PBs - Quinn, Matilda, Marlee
Well done to the Mackay Team who travelled to the Moreton-Bribie Teams and Pairs 2025 Congress. In an outstanding field of players, Diane Morgan, Janet Hansen, Francie Brown and Alan Brown won the Open Teams event. The second week of the Anne Hird Trophy was played on Wednesday with Andrew Canavan currently leading the coveted event.
Weekly Results
Monday 11 August 2025 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy 1st Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 2nd Geoff Taylor / Nancy Martin
3rd Barbara Tait / Josie Crowley 3rd Andrew Canavan / Geoffrey Patterson
4th Edward Kleise / Diane Stokes 4th Mary Rose Ramsden / Sandy Patterson
Tuesday Evening 12 August 2025 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Marilin Robins / Faye Wright 2nd Janine Rodgers / Andrew Canavan
3rd Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor 4th Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
Wednesday 13 August 2025 – Anne Hird Memorial Trophy Week 2 of 3 Novice event
N/S E/W
1st Jayne Johnson / Geoff Taylor 1st Andrew Canavan / Geoffrey Patterson
2nd Jewel Schimdt / Janet Hansen 2nd Joy Hold / Terry Sheedy
3rd Martin Pearce / Joy Robinson 3rd Colleen Riddel / Gwen Liddell
4th Sandy Patterson / Debra Goodchild 4th Susan Gibson / Jan Harris
Thursday Evening 14 August 2025 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy 2nd Martin Pearce / Terry Sheedy
3rd Geoff Taylor / Christopher Meyers 4th Jan Harris / Patricia Garner
Friday 15 August 2025 – Week 16 of 25 NWP 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson 1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 2nd Roland Taylor / Lynne O’Neill
3rd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 3rd Mary Rose Ramsden / Patrick Rasmussen
4th Martin Pearce / Gwen Liddell 4th Alan Brown / Frances Brown
5th Ming Ting / David Ting 5th Jewel Schmidt / Annette Howe
Saturday 16 August – B4 Week 1 of 2 - 11 Table Mitchell Red Points
N/S E/W
1st Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild 1st Errol Morris / Ian Gaskell
2nd Geoff Taylor / Terry Sheedy 2nd David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 3rd Janine Rodgers / Jan Harris
4th Susan Ross / Geoff Cowan 4th Patricia Garner / Geoffrey Patterson
5th Julie O’Neill / Griffin Bancroft 5th Helen Van Den Broek / Joy Brunette
Contributed by Joy Block
Alan Brown, Diane Morgan, Janet Hansen, Pres.Robert and Frances Brown
Andrew Canavan and Joy Robinson. Photos supplied
Mackay’s rising cycling stars have made their mark on the state stage, bringing home an impressive haul of titles and podium finishes at the AusCycling Queensland 2025 Gravel State Championships in Rockhampton on Saturday, 9 August, and the Cyclocross State Championships the following day.
Heavy rain in the lead-up to the gravel event made for a muddy, unpredictable course, but Mackay’s juniors thrived in the challenging conditions.
In the Gravel State Championships, Max Teague was crowned Queensland State Champion in the U15 Boys, while Oaklan Marwood took the U13 Boys title. Scott Bennett claimed second place in the same category. Mackay’s seniors also shone, with Kyle Marwood taking first place in the Masters 2 Men, securing another state title. Strong rides came from Lee Taylor (5th, Masters 4 Men), Geoff Bennett (6th), Noel Garciano (7th), and Zac Schwarzrock, who impressed early in the Elite Men’s race before an unfortunate DNF.
On Sunday, the Cyclocross State Championships saw Mackay’s juniors continue their dominance. Max Teague secured his second state title of the weekend in the U15 Boys with a commanding win, finishing two-and-a-half minutes clear. Scott Bennett took second after an exciting sprint finish against the series leader. In the Elite Men’s race, Zac Schwarzrock placed third, completing seven gruelling laps against Queensland’s best.
“Seeing our juniors step up and win state titles in such tough conditions is huge for the future of Mackay cycling,” said Mackay Cycling Track Coordinator Kyle Marwood.
“These results show the depth of talent we have coming through, and the weekend’s success is a credit to every rider who lined up.”
With three junior state titles, elite podiums, and strong results across the board, Mackay’s riders proved they can handle everything from sticky gravel climbs to slick cyclocross corners.
The 2025 Mackay Wanderers Junior Football Carnival was a standout weekend for grassroots sport, featuring a record-breaking 130 teams from across Central Queensland. The carnival’s scale and success brought thousands of visitors to the region, creating an electric atmosphere on and off the field.
Mayor Greg Williamson congratulated the organisers, volunteers, and families who made the event possible.
He said, “It was the biggest event to date, bringing thousands of visitors to our region and creating an incredible atmosphere on and off the field.”
He also highlighted the economic benefits, adding, “Events like this not only showcase our local talent but also deliver a fantastic economic boost to the region.
"Well done to everyone involved – Mackay should be proud.”
Greg Kliese, president and lifelong member of Mackay Wanderers Football Club, described the carnival as one of the happiest and friendliest clubs he's been involved in.
With over 45 years of coaching experience, he emphasised the wider benefits for young players.
“They get to learn discipline, work for one another, and gain valuable skills - especially creativity.
"it's overall just a great atmosphere."
Carnival coordinator Melinda Studt praised the strong community spirit throughout the weekend.
“The kids were just so busy with their teams having fun… if the kids weren’t busy playing their game, they were either at the canteen or in the drill zone space learning tricks from senior players.”
“We had a great turn out with the girls this year too, so next year we absolutely want to boost that aspect and build a stronger competition for the girls.”
Both Melinda and Greg expressed gratitude to Football Queensland for their support, with Greg saying, “Football Queensland really got amongst it and helped with the draw and scoring.”
On behalf of the club, Melinda, Greg, and Football Queensland thanked players, coaches, referees, families, volunteers, and sponsors for their invaluable support, with the team now looking forward to an even bigger carnival in 2026.
2025 Carnival Winners:
• U15/16: Magpies Mackay Football Club Black
• U14: Striker Biloela
• U13: Emerald Eagles Football Club
• U12: Airlie Beach Black
• U11: Mackay Lions Black
• U10: Magpies Mackay Football Club Silver
Special recognition was also awarded to Country United Football Club Inc as the Fair Play Club of the Carnival.
The 2025 Mackay Wanderers Junior Football Carnival set a record with 130 teams, celebrating community spirit, youth development, and growing girls’ participation. Photo credit: Amanda Blines
The Mackay community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of 18-year-old Andrew Lelliott, who tragically lost his life in a single-vehicle crash near Moranbah on Thursday, August 8.
Andrew was travelling as a passenger in a silver Toyota Hilux when the vehicle left the roadway and collided with a power pole on the Peak Downs Highway. Despite the efforts of emergency services, Andrew, from Balberra, was declared deceased at the scene. The driver, an 18-year-old Beaconsfield man, sustained minor injuries and was taken to Moranbah Hospital.
Andrew’s passing has sent ripples of grief through Mackay and beyond, a loss felt not only by his family and friends but by the region’s sporting community, particularly within Mackay Basketball, where Andrew’s talent, generosity, and character left a lasting mark.
From the Under-12s through to the Under-18s, Andrew proudly represented Mackay on the basketball court. Known for his natural ability and trademark flair for passing, he was the kind of player who made those around him better. Spectators recall the joy of watching him in action — unselfish in play, sharp in vision, and always with a grin that spoke to his love of the game.
Beyond his years as a player, Andrew continued to contribute to the sport he loved by serving as a referee, earning respect for his fairness, professionalism, and easy rapport with players and officials alike.
“Andrew leaves behind a lasting legacy in the Mackay community through his friendship, loyalty, sportsmanship, and generous smile,” Mackay Basketball said in a statement.
A memorial service to honour Andrew’s life will be held at 4:00pm on Friday, August 15, at McDonald’s Mackay Multisport Stadium. The community is invited to attend and celebrate the vibrant, joyful, and kind-hearted young man whose presence enriched so many lives.
In keeping with Andrew’s colourful spirit, his family has requested guests wear bright colours – pinks, blues, whites, and yellows – to reflect the vibrancy he brought to every game, conversation, and moment. Past teammates are encouraged to bring a pair of basketball shoes to be placed at centre court as a powerful tribute to the game and friendships that bound Andrew to the Mackay sporting community.
A GoFundMe has been established to assist Andrew’s mother, Loma, and their family during this unimaginably difficult time. The funds will help cover funeral costs, counselling, and living expenses, easing the burden so the family can focus on grieving and healing.
The loss of a young life with such promise is a tragedy no community ever wishes to face. Yet, in the midst of this sorrow, the Mackay community is rallying, in stadiums, in homes, and in many hearts, to remember Andrew not for the way he was taken, but for the joy, kindness, and passion he gave so freely.
Donations can be made via GoFundMe at: https://gofund.me/9d6aff3b
Mackay Life extends our deepest condolences to the friends and families affected.
The Mackay community is mourning the loss of 18-year-old basketballer Andrew Lelliott, remembered for his talent, kindness, and vibrant spirit, after he tragically died in a crash near Moranbah. Photo source: Mackay Basketball
TABLE TENNIS
Season 3 Morning Fixtures – Results 2 – 29th August 2025
Division 1 - Tiger Paws (Allan Robins, Bryan Marshall, Ross DeBoer) tied 6-6 against Wolf Pack (Andrea Nicholson, Pam Joyce, Helen Ware)
Shark Attack (Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson, Marie Taylor) drew 6-6 Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, George Camilleri, Kevin Abbott)
Lions King (Don Boettcher, Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd) defeated 8-4 Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan)
Division 2 – Falcon Flyers (Ken Best, Ian Dodds, John Hamelink) defeated 7-5 Panther Pace (Gerry Synnott, Frank Caruana, Gloria Vella)
Python Spin (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell) defeated 9-3 Rhino Charge (Pam Kuene, Josie Davis, Kim Challender)
Division 3 – Captin Spins (Glenda Dutton, Sharon Muller, Allison Day) defeated 10-2 over Iron Rallies (Ron Johr, Trisha Zamparutti, Carmel Cristaldi)
Bat Serves (Cheryl Pearson, Kaz Chester, Glenda Brookes) defeated 7-5 Spider Smashes (Myles Dutton, Madge Saunders, Laurie Bradshaw)
**Season 3 Evening Fixtures - Result Week 2 **
Division 1 – Fish (Steve Whiting & Jocob Whelan) defeated Bears (Josh Brown & Lee Brake) 5-0. Jacob winning in 5 over Josh (11-6)
Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) defeated Birds (Anne Sheridan, Trent Day) 9-2. Robbie won in 5th set against Trent (11-7)
Division 2 – Cats (Duncan Treloar, Graham Brake, Will VanDeKaa) defeated Cows (Ian McKay, Janice Kent, George Camilleri) 8-3. Janice winning a massive 5 set match over Duncan (11-9)
Dogs (Ivan Perkins, Mark Sleeman, Peter Goodson) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Yilin Jiang) 8-3. Andrea won in 5th set over Ivan (11-3)
Tigers (Allan Edwards, Allan Robins, Geoff Cowan) defeated Horses (Syed Aminul Hossain, Donna Abbott, Ollie Hamelink) 9-2. Syed winning in 5 games over Allan R (11-7)
Division 3 – Stiga (Simon Hogan, Vincent Neuhauf, Val Austin) defeated Tibhar (Ross DeBoer, Craig VanDeKaa, Rod Hamelink) 8-3. Val won over Craig in 5th set (11-5)
Nittaku (Melanie Theodore, Noreen Frederickson, Samual Whelan) defeated Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) 6-5. Noreen winning in 5 against Mark (12-10)
Season 3 Morning Fixtures – Results Week 3 – 5th August 2025
Division 1 – Shark Attack (Doug Dungavell, Peter Goodson, Marie Taylor) drew 6-6 against Lions King (Donna Abbott, Veronica Shepherd, Don Boettcher)
Tiger Paws (Allan Robins, Ross DeBoer, Bryan Marshall) defeated 7-5 Bear Claws (Judy Zahn, John McGee, Kevin Abbott)
Eagle Wings (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Frederickson, Coral Morgan) defeated 7-5 Wolf Pack (Pam Joyce, Steve Mathieson, Virginia Clayton)
Division 2 – Flacon Flyers (Ken Best, Ian Dodds, John Hamelink) defeated 9-3 over Python Spins (Kim Daffy, Louise Gould, Robyn Bushell)
Panther Pace (Gerry Synnott, Frank Caruana, Helen Ware) defeated 8-4 Rhino Charge (Iris Grasso, Kim Challender, Josie Davis)
Division 3 – Iron Rallies (Pam Keune, Thelma Caruana) defeated 6-4 Spider Smashes (Laurie Bradshaw, Madge Saunders)
Captin Spins (Sharon Muller, Peter Taber) defeated 7-5 Bat Serves (Glenda Brookes, Cheryl Pearson, Kaz Chester)
Season 3 Evening Fixtures - Results Week 3
Division 1 – Ants (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Robbie Richards) defeated Fish (Goncalo Serra, Steve Whiting) 6-5. Vince won in 4 sets over Steve (11-5)
Bears (Lily Boland, Lee Brake, Josh Brown) had a massive win over Birds (Janice Kent, Anne Sheridan, Trent Day) 10-1. Lily won over Janice in 5 sets (12-10)
Division 2 – Cats (Graham Brake, Duncan Treloar, Will VanDeKaa) defeated Horses (Syed Aminul Hossain, Donna Abbott) 7-4. Will/Duncan won great 5 setter against Syed/Donna (11-9)
Tigers (Allan Edwards, Allan Robins, Geoff Cowan) defeated Dogs (Mark Sleeman, George Camilleri, Peter Goodson) 9-2. Mark winning tight 5 sets over Geoff (11-9)
Cows (Graeme Walker, Ian McKay, Steve Mathieson) defeated Owls (Andrea Nicholson, Yilin Jiang) 7-4. Graeme winning over Yilin (11-8) in 5th game
Division 3 – Butterfly (Mark Stam, Liz Burton, Logan Brown) defeated Stiga (Vincent Neuhauf, Val Austin) 7- 4. Vincent won in 5 sets against Mark (11-7)
Nittaku (Noreen Frederickson, Samuel Whelan, Melanie Theodore) defeated Tibhar (Craig VanDeKaa, Marie
Taylor, Rod Hamelink) 8-3. Rod won in 5th set over Melanie (11-8)
Mackay table tennis teams battled through close matches and big wins in Season 3 morning and evening fixtures. Photo source: Mackay Table Tennis Association
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