Last weekend marked a momentous time in history for the Mackay Cutters rugby league team as they announced they would field three female teams for the first time in their history, competing in the Harvey Norman U17s & U19s divisions, as well as the BMD Premiership. The timing couldn't have been more fitting, with Round 1 of the BMD Premiership coinciding with the team's "Ladies in League Day," aligning perfectly with the celebrations of International Women's Day. In front of an eager crowd, the
Read the full storyThe Mackay City Lady bowlers recently held an exciting string of events, including their Opening Day, PAH and an ‘Overs and Unders’ Carnival. These three successful events proved to be a fantastic bowling day out for those involved! Margot Stanley, Lorraine Silman and Pam McDermott from the Mackay District Ladies Bowls Association (MDLBA) joined bowlers from all around the Mackay district to participate in the City Ladies’ Presidents at Home on the 28th of February. The Cent Sale and luncheoun
Read the full storyClub President, Brendan Bishop welcomed over seventy runners to take part in the annual Construct Health Physio 3km Mackay Road Runners Club Championship event, where the pace was expected to be fast and furious over the flat road race as runners took to the East Mackay streets surrounding Queens Park. Weather conditions were perfect for running as the overcast skies and rainclouds threatened but thankfully didn’t open up throughout the event. Hardy runners knew from the gun that the race was
Read the full storyMackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures March 3, 2024: Division 1: Jaguar (Vince Boeske, Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan) d Mercedes (Steven Whiting, Graham Brake, Graeme Walker) 7-4. Vince d Graham -6, 8, 7, -11, 6. Lexus (Andrew McHugh, Janice Kent, Barry Patterson) d BMW (Ian McKay, Daniel Warfield, Allan Edwards) 8-3. Andrew d Allan 9, 9, -8, 12. Audi (Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake) d Ferrari (Tony Bowman, Geoff Denman) 6-3. Mick d Geoff 2, 8, -10, 7. Division 2: Isuzu (Mark Stam, George Camilleri,
Read the full storyWeekly Results
Monday 4 March 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janelle Conroy / Jan Harris
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Patricia Garner / Mick King
2nd
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Monica Darley / Griffin Bancroft
4th
Ming Ting / Pamela Finger
4th
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
Tuesday Evening 5 March 2024 –5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Eric Lievesley
2nd
Janice Mansfield / Faith Hutchinson
3rd
Errol Morris / Sandra Morris
4th
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
Wednesday 6 March 2024 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
2nd
Ted Cullinan / Anne Lutz
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
3rd
Jan Harris / Sandra Morris
4th
Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
4th
Frances Brown / Alan Brown
Thursday Evening 7 March 2024 – 6 Table One Winner
1st
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Shirley Casey / Griffin Bancroft
3rd
Patricia Garner / Mick King
4th
Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
4th
Jan Harris / Susan Ross
6th
Frances Brown / Sandra Morris
Friday 8 March 2024 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
1st
Christine Nice / Diane Cox
2nd
Edward Kleise / Nancy Wix
2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell
4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
4th
Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill
5th
Joyce Deguara / Toni Large
5th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
Saturday 9 March 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill
1st
David Ting / Ming Ting
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
2nd
Geoff Cowen / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Patricia Garner / Geoffrey Patterson
3rd
Diane Stokes / Ann Whitmore
4th
Jewel Schmidt / Richard Wix
4th
Christine Nice / Faye Wright
1: The Goodchild / Ting team at the Gold Coast Bridge Congress. Mackay had 26 members attending this world-class event
2: The Holewa team finished in the top 20 in the 1500 Teams
On your marks…Get set…GO! The 2024 BMA Mackay Marina Run was officially launched on the 1st of March with organisers predicting over 3,500 participants to be involved.
Coming up to its 16th year, the annual run is widely regarded as Queensland’s most scenic running event with a flat, fast course set against spectacular sub-tropical scenery.
Event Director, Tim Magoffin advised the run had become a signature event on the national running event calendar.
“The BMA Mackay Marina Run offers a unique event with runners able to enjoy our flat, fast course set within a scenic sub-tropical location,” he said.
With an increase in popularity each year, Tim advised this year’s race will also be marketed internationally, with free registration being offered to international runners.
“The national appeal of our event has definitely grown,” he added.
“People are recognising what a great precursor we are for the Gold Coast Marathon and that’s presented a wonderful opportunity for tourism in our region.
“To leverage that, we’re making a concerted push into the international market, particularly with our neighbours in New Zealand.
“Every year we have an ambassador from the leukemia foundation, from a family or individual that’s been through treatment, and this year we have Hayden Lee,” Tim added.
Hayden Lee was diagnosed with Leukemia on the 1st of March eight years ago and underwent treatment as a three-year-old for a period of nine months. As he grew older, he continued his treatment in Mackay.
After years of fighting leukaemia, a recent five-year check-up at the doctors, declared Hayden to be officially cancer free!
BMA representative, Linda Murray says, “This event is really important to us, we love our community and we love being a part of it.”
“Our long-term partnership underlies our commitment to fostering thriving communities that provide economic, social and healthy outcomes,” added BMA Asset President Adam Lancey.
Mr Lancey will be one of the 3,500 runners expected to take part in the event.
“I’m looking forward to participating for the first time, I’ve heard a lot about it. I’m aiming for the half-marathon.
“We’ll also be competing in the Corporate Challenge and will have our team on hand to warmly welcome and support runners on the day.”
The BMA Mackay Marina Run will take place on 2 June and includes a 21.1km half marathon, 10 and 5km, a 3km junior dash and the popular 5km Corporate Challenge.
Early Bird Registrations will close 13th March.
To find out more, visit www.mackaymarinarun.com
Caption 1: Tim Magoffin with young Hero, Hayden Lee
Caption 2: BMA Mackay Marina Run sponsor representatives for 2024
Calling on all Pickleball Players to hop on down this Easter to Mackay Indoor Pickleball Club!
This exciting upcoming event is the first Indoor Pickleball Tournament in the region, taking place at the McDonald’s Mackay Multisport Stadium in Juliet St, South Mackay on Friday, Saturday and Sunday of the Easter Weekend.
This all-inclusive event caters to all competitors of all levels, including individuals who may be quite new to the game or just play socially, through to more Intermediate, experienced players, as well as the more serious advanced competitors.
The event begins on Friday evening with an optional warmup session from 2-5 pm at a $5 cost.
Competition commences on Saturday with Men’s and Women’s Doubles in all categories with games and finals in the one day. Sunday will see mixed doubles in all categories and afternoon finals.
Mackay Indoor Pickleball Club are looking forward to welcoming all players to this friendly, social competition. If you want to see what all the Pickleball fuss is about, come on down, join in and have a try if it’s your very first time!
Caption: To nominate, or find out more information , follow the link on the poster
Nearly fifty runners tackled the extreme humidity as they tracked the bendy pathways from the Bucasia Beach Playground Parklands to Shoal Point last Sunday. The runners didn’t seem to have noticed the severe heat conditions until the return lap, but despite the challenges they continued to push on through!
Timekeeper Arthur Dick was in full control as he announced each runner’s start times based on their handicap. Highest handicap marker, Hamish Donnollan had an extremely long wait for his start, however, managed to catch his dad, Shane and pass him in the final meters of the 10km.
It was great to see the return of existing and new members, including Thomas Wendt who took out the 10km based on his handicap start.
The morning saw great performances from the female contingent, in specific; Mel Esau, Carmel Mahon, Jan smith, Judy Zahn, Lauren Connor, Kim Saron, Jo Hughes, Leanne Connor, Brenda Windsor, Carol Brown, Jo Skinner, Em Hayles and Natasha Joynson.
The next Mackay Road Runners Club event will be the 2nd Club Championship of the year from Queen’s Park, Shakespeare Street entrance, East Mackay on Sunday at 6.30am.
The Construct Health Physio 3km sprint distance will be fast and furious from the gun, with the top contenders expected to stop the clock at around nine minutes.
All members must be registered with the timekeeper by 6.20am at the very latest with your bib chip number placed securely to the front of yourselves.
Many thanks to Construct Health Physio for their ongoing support of the Club and this race in particular which they have sponsored for several years now.
Congratulations to the BMA Mackay Marina Run committee for the launch of their event last Friday with a meet and greet at the Bluewater Quay. At 6pm, just on 900 runners and walkers competed in the 5km Fun Run across the Forgan Smith Bridge, with 100% of the registrations and additional donations directly going to the local branch of the Leukemia Foundation.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Caption: 2105 – Andrew Short, Teresa Hackney and Alan Zamparutti await their handicapped starting time callup from the Timekeeper
Caption: 3545 – Simon Henderson and Lauren Connor bolt from the gun on their handicapped start time
Caption: 3633 – Em Hayles makes a welcome return to club racing
Caption: 4652 – Todd Turner is having a great start to the 2024 program, easily completing the 10km in the oppressive humidity. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse
With the aid of supportive fundraisers, the Starlight Children’s Foundation creates moments of joy and happiness for children of all ages facing illness, brightening the lives of those in hospital.
Throughout the past month of February, Masters Swimming Queensland clubs have dived on board to support the Starlight Super Swim, raising an impressive amount of funds for the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
A fantastic first time total of $2,827 was raised by the participating members of the event, whilst also achieving some impressive distances. One dedicated swimmer logged 81km for the month, a total of 1620 laps of a 50-meter pool!
This year the North Mackay Sinkers along with the Bunna-barra and Belgravia Masters Swimming Clubs participated in the event. Each of the clubs had five registered members, providing a total of 15 members and raised a collective grand total of $7,952 which will be going directly to benefit young children in hospital!
The main aim is to raise valuable funds but awareness and participation are also great aims for Masters clubs and their networks. A handy app even logs swims and donations on the go.
The club has entered a second Fundraiser for March with “Laps for Life” offering another opportunity to participate in swimming whilst raising much needed funds for Youth Mental Health.
For those who are interested in joining, you can swim as an individual or form a team to participate, all while staying active and raising funds for youth mental health.
The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming club offer group sessions, events in the pool or open water and cater to all abilities in a supportive and social environment.
While the swim has concluded, the donations portal is open until the end of March. If you wish to donate you can search Starlight Super swim and Sinkers Masters Starlight Team
For further enquiries, please call 0413 805 156 or visit our public page North Mackay Sinkers – Masters Swimming Club.
Contributed by Dan Stampa
Caption: Sinkers enjoying a rest and a chat in the Coffee Hub
Caption: Excited swimmers, as happy as ducks in the water
Young guns Trent Day and Ollie Hamelink played a close match on Tuesday night, Trent up 10, 9, -8, -11, 8.
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixture results February 27, 2024:
Division 1:
Lexus (Barry Patterson, Andrew McHugh, Janice Kent) d Mercedes (Steven Whiting, Graham Brake, Graeme Walker) 6-5. Steven d Andrew -8, 11, -6, 10, 8.
Ferrari (Geoff Denman, Goncalo Serra, Mark Sleeman) d Jaguar (Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan, Vince Boeske) 7-4. Vince d Mark 12, 11, -10, 9.
Andro (Tony Bowman, Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake) d BMW (Terry Morato, Ishan Rana, Ian McKay) 6-5. Terry d Mick -4, 5, -5, 7, 8.
Division 2:
Hyuandi (Noreen Fredericksen, Donna Abbott, Delma Knight) d Kia (Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson, Matt West) 6-5. Donna d Peter 8, -9, -10,
Isuzu (George Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, Mark Stam) d Mazda (Judy Zahn, Doug Dungavell, Niro) 8-3. George d Doug 10, -8, 7, -10, 5.
Nissan (Duncan Treloar, Simon Hogan, Will VanDeKaa) d Honda (Jye Callander, Leo Gilbert, Jason Hodda) 9-2. Simon d Jason 7, -11,-8, 6,10.
Division 3:
Fiat (Trent Day, YiLin Jiang, Aarnav Reelh) d Ford (Ollie Hamelink, Misha Palod, Tiffany Camilleri) 10-1. Trent d Ollie 10, 9, -8, -11, 8.
Alfa (Kade Wright, Nehmat Dhaliwal, Craig VanDeKaa) d Holden (Anaya Reelh, Saisha Palod) 8-3. Kade d Saisha 9, 7, -10, -8, 4.
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures February 27, 2022:
Division 1:
Cheetahs (Donna Abbott, Doug Dungavell, Val Austin) d Pumas (George Camilleri, Coral Morgan) 8-4. Donna d George -6, 7, 9, 5.
Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Tigers (Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, John McGee) 7-5. Peter d Noreen -9, 7, -4, 4, 7.
Lions (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Bryan Marshall) d Leopards (Steve Mathieson, Judy Zahn) 8-4. Steve d Pam 2, -10, 8, -8, 7.
Division 2:
Cyan (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor, Louise Gould) d Lime (Helen Ware, Fred Saliba, Tiffany Camilleri) 9-3. Tiffany d Marie -8, 6, 9, -11, 4.
Aqua (Don Boettcher, Gloria Vella, Gerry Synnott) d Teal (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Kim Challender) Kim d Gerry -9, 10, 3, -10, 10.
Division 3:
Sapphires (Carnel Cristaldi, Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross) d Diamonds (Frank Caruana, Bill Hey) 8-4. Darryl d Bill 8, -9, 3, -7, 2.
Emeralds (Charles Hamlett, Thelma Caruana) drew Rubies (Sharon Muller, Allison Day) 5-all. Sharon d Charles -8, -8, 6, 3, 11.
Contributed by Charlie Payne
Caption: Kim Daffy in action in Tuesday morning fixtures
Players at the Gold Coast Congress (GCC) had a fantastic week of cards, friends, laughter, and food. Players had mixed results, with Diane and Max Holewa taking out third place in the Iva Dahler Butler Swiss Pairs Intermediate category. Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris came fifth in the Bobby Richmond Novice Pairs Championship, while taking out the Qld Novice Pairs.
Weekly Results
Monday 26 February 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Geoffrey Patterson / Terrence Sheedy
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson
2nd
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
3rd
Edward Kliese / Diane Stokes
3rd
Victor Mason / Antonia Taradas
Tuesday Evening 27 February 2024 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Eric Lievesley
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Susan Gibson / Karen Cadwell
4th
Terry Sheedy / Mick King
Wednesday 28 February 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Sandy Patterson / Geoff Patterson
2nd
Thomas Block / Ellrae Trueman
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Noel Saunders / Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
4th
Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
4th
Terry Sheedy / Eric Leivesley
Thursday Evening 29 February 2024 – 5 Table One Winner
1st
Annie Lynch / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Susan Gibson / Karen Cadwell
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
4th
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 1 March 2024 – Week 5 of 24 Week NWP - 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Ming Ting / David Ting
1st
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger
2nd
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
3rd
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
3rd
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
4th
Edward Kleise / Nancy Wix
4th
Geoff Cowan / Geoffrey Patterson
5th
Anne Lutz / Diane Cox
5th
Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill
Saturday 2 March 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
1st
Geoff Cowen / Sandy Patterson
2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
3rd
Ian Gaskell / Terry Sheedy
3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting
4th
Patricia Garner / Julie O’Neill
4th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
Contributed by Joy Block
Captions
Faye Wright and Christine Nice at GCC
Get ready to roll this Saturday, as the Mackay Bowls Club hosts the long-awaited Australia Day Bowls event, kicking off at 1pm, March 2nd.
Come along bowlers, and enjoy an afternoon of bowls and some Aussie tucker… be sure to wear your best Aussie attire!
Sponsored by Mackay Regional Council and Karyn Shepherd from More Air, this event promises a day of fun-filled bowling action, offering two divisions, one for Bowlers and the other for non-bowlers. You’ve got to be in it to win it! There will be prize money for both divisions.
Last Friday launched the first afternoon of Cut throat bowls, where 24 bowlers enjoyed the afternoon after a blind draw.
The final came down to a very close finish with umpire Hazel making the call on the winners. Eddie Roberts and Leanne Jenner won the afternoon from Carol Savage and Janice Nelson with a winning shot on the last bowl.
Results
Tuesday Men's Triples - Winner of Winners:
A. Summerville, K. Dunn, E. Roberts
Winner of Losers:
L. Jenner, B. Jenner, P. Taffee
Thursday Scroungers:
A. Shepherd def W. Herewini in a close game, winning by one.
Club Competition Sunday 3rd March 1.00pm start.
B Singles: S. Green vs T. Casey
Open Pairs: S. McMillian, R. Dunstan vs S. Makin, C. Molloy
G. Thomsen, T. Mayfield vs A. Lovern, N. Holt
Open Fours: T. Gibson, K. Tranberg, G. Edmonds, N. Wilson vs E. Wynd, A. Shepherd,
D. Wootton, B. Bridger.
A mixed Four's and Pairs Carnival will be played over the Weekend of the 9th and on the 10th March, $1070 is up for grabs in prize money!
Saturday 9th March, mixed Four's start 1.00pm with 21 ends.
Sunday 10th March, two games of Pairs (men's and women's pairs and mixed
pairs) each game 11 ends starting 11.00am.
Selectors have picked teams for Marian Mill Shield on Saturday March
23rd, with the final on Sunday 24th.
Team 1. P. Molloy, S. Cassidy, R. Fry, B. Bridger.
Team 2. G. Luck. A. Gibson, M. Coll, R. Blanchard.
Team 4. K. Tranberg, C. Marks, G. Edmonds, N. Wilson.
Team 4. B. Jenner, C. Stevens, B. Robertson, B. Paskins.
Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the sport, don't miss out on the opportunity to join in on the excitement at the Mackay Bowls Club's upcoming events.
To check out future events, draws and results, visit the Mackay Bowls Club online.
Contributed by Mike Irving
Caption: Seasoned players, enjoying a game of Bowls
There were plenty of tight scores in the northern derby clashes between the Townsville Blackhawks and Mackay Cutters.
The Mackay campaign started on a strong note with the Harvey Norman U17s coming away with a convincing 20-10 win over the Blackhawks. It was a day of impressive footy at Jack Manski Oval on Saturday, with the Harvey Norman Under 17s holding the biggest score difference, with just 10 points.
Unfortunately for Mackay, that was the first and last win for the sides against a tough northern rival.
In the Harvey Norman Under 19s, it was the home team who triumphed with another tight, low-scoring match.
Blackhawks winger Zaleah Mosby-Nona was the only player to cross in the opening stanza, scoring in the 14th minute to give her side a 4-0 lead at the break.
Mackay finally responded in the 46th minute, with halfback Mersades Lawson equalling the scores.
But the Blackhawks were not going to settle with a draw.
Backrower Hannah De Daunton stepped up with a big final 10 minutes, scoring in the 50th minute, before adding the two points and then converting a penalty goal on the buzzer to seal the deal.
The Blackhawks finished with a 12-4 victory and three out of four wins over Mackay.
In the Cyril Connell Cup, the Blackhawks finished 12-6 at full time, Mackay were unlucky in the Mal Meninga Cup, finishing 12-8 in a game that had looked at times to go either way, and it was also a close tussle in the Hostplus Cup trial, with the Blackhawks taking the win, 18-12.
Shaniah Power Joins QCCS Mackay Cutters
The QCCS Mackay Cutters proudly unveiled their latest signing last week, Shaniah Power, recipient of the prestigious 2023 BMD Player of the Year award.
With an impressive track record, Shaniah adds invaluable experience to the Mackay squad, boasting four appearances for Queensland and contributing to multiple NRLW teams. Currently under contract with the Cowboys, Shaniah's arrival promises to bolster the team's strength and competitiveness.
The Cutters Care program made a meaningful visit to St Brendans Catholic Primary School last week, made possible by the generous support of Porters Mitre 10 Mackay and Mackay Regional Council.
During the session, students engaged in activities aimed at fostering both physical and mental well-being, learning valuable lessons on building strong brains and bodies. Following the educational component, the students enjoyed a series of entertaining and footy-related games.
To book your School in for a Cutters Care session, visit the Cutters’ website.
Mackay Regional Council announced that more than half the trails at Finch Hatton MTB were made available to ride last weekend, with many riders across the region taking the opportunity to shred the twists and turns.
This is an opportunity for riders to get some tyres on the trails and help pack them down after recent delays due to wet weather. A mix of easy, intermediate, and expert trails are ready to ride.
These initial trails are the first to be accessible in stage one, with the remaining trails and the trailhead to be unveiled in the coming weeks. Visitors are advised to observe signage at the site and stay off closed trails.
While it’s exciting to welcome the first riders to the trails, unpredictable weather could lead to closure of the trails at short notice. News of any closures will be made via the Finch Hatton MTB social channels.
Off Camber, the official shuttle service, is now available. Shuttle bookings can be made online via https://offcamber.com.au/.
Carparking, toilets and the pump track are available. Please bring plenty of water for a day out.
A grand opening of Finch Hatton MTB stage one is scheduled for mid-April. Keep an eye out for more details at www.facebook.com/finchhattonmtb.
Be the first to know the news by signing up for the official FHMTB newsletter, Trail Tales, at finchhattonmtb.com.au.
TRAILS
G’Day G’Day (easy) – A family friendly climbing trail departing the main trailhead.
Your Shout (intermediate) – Designed for progressive fun, this intermediate trail provides three distinct sections along different parts of the hill.
Green Whistle (easy) – A fun easy flow trail offering amazing views of the Pioneer Valley.
No Wuckas (easy) – A wide easy-flowing return trail back to the main trailhead.
Lost Loco (intermediate) – The trail features stacked climbing switchbacks, stunning views, and a rapid descent down to Salubrious.
Tasty Fig (intermediate) - This fast, intermediate trail features large berms, massive rollers, and optional jump lines.
Chuck A Sickie (difficult) – Challenge yourself on one of the highest black diamond trails in the Stage 1 network.
Nope Rope (easy) – A relaxed, mid-valley trail through a unique and picturesque environment.
Salubrious (easy) - A tasty contouring trail with clusters of fast, hard-packed berms and large reverse grades.
Over eighty Mackay Road Runners pounded the pavement at 6.30am from the Queen’s Park Rotunda for the annual Club Championship event competing for valuable open and age category points. MAD Fitness Mackay’s support added to the prestige and success of the event as runners took to the East Mackay streets despite the overcast skies after an initial loop of Queen’s Park before returning for a final loop to cross the finish line.
There were many special performances amongst the field, particularly from new runners who finished ahead of their more experienced peers.
Thank you to Andrew Short, Arthur Dick, Julie Whibley, Jo Hughes, Brendan, Millie and Hughie Bishop and Tim Magoffin for helping out on the day.
Lace up your shoes for a jam-packed weekend of running with the Mackay Airport City Twilight run commencing Friday Night at 6pm from the Bluewater Quay whalebones. All funds raised for the event will be donated directly to the Mackay Branch of the Leukaemia Foundation.
This Sunday’s club run will commence at 6.30am from Bucasia to Shoal Point at the Seaview Park, Cnr Bucasia Esplanade and Walters Avenue (near the big red car playground). Runners are reminded to wear their member bib number facing frontwards for timekeeping purposes. All new comers are welcome; however, you will need to register and pay a $10 casual race day fee. There will be no formal time recorded. Members pay a $2 race day fee.
Check out previous results, as well as the full list of upcoming programs, races and merchandise all on the Mackay Road Runners website.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Caption 4572 – (left to right) Andrew and Erin from MAD Fitness with female podium finishers – Ashlee Scott, Alana Knezevic and Lily Leven (obscured)
Caption 4419 – Second placed Male Jarod Mackie holds off a fast-finishing Luke Leven by only seconds
Caption 4496 – Carolyn Mapes (left) and Tahnie Malagueno united in the final 50 metres. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse
Eight Blokarters from Mackay ventured South to Mulambin, near Yeppoon, to compete in the Australian Blokart Championships.
The Smith family were well represented from grandparents to grandchild.
Most fleet classes were contested with the Mackay team performing well in their respected classes.
The Francis family did well, Kate Francis achieving a 3rd overall in Lightweight Production, Tony achieving 1st overall in Medium Weight Performance.
Other results included Trevor Smith 3rd overall in the Lightweight Performance, Eric Smith a 1st overall in the Super Heavy Performance, George Camilleri a 3rd overall in the Heavy Performance, and Gary Smith achieving a 2nd overall in the Medium Weight division.
Club sailing resumes on Sunday March 3 in the afternoon (weather permitting) at Bucasia Beach.
Captions
Blokarters Brian Farley, Tony and Kate Francis, Coen Smith Jung, Trevor Smith, Eric Smith, George Camilleri and Gary Smith with some of their trophies, which were made and presented by Central Queensland Blokart Club president David Moore
Blokarts lined up for the Australian championships at Mulambin
The Wilson Kinchant Team Championship was held last weekend with Mackay Tournament Anglers facing challenging weather conditions. Despite the initial bout of pouring rain and gusting winds, the skies cleared up in the final hour, allowing anglers to vie for top honours.
Brad Hocking secured the title for the biggest Barra, reeling in an impressive catch measuring 108cm and earning a prize of $100. In the overall standings, Mullet Mayhem, comprising Keegan Hayden and Brendon King, clinched the top spot, claiming the coveted $1000 prize. Burnt Thumbs Fishing, represented by Jason Crofts and Trevor Crofts, secured second place with a cash prize of $550, also boasting the highest Barra total with 12 catches across both sessions.
The McFarlane Boys, Darcy McFarlane and Isaac McFarlane, secured third place, earning themselves a $300 prize. Zerek, represented by Liam Robinson and Benn Durkin, and Gee Force, composed of Finn Gee and Geoff Newby, rounded out the top five, each receiving a Wilson Prize Pack.
Despite the smaller field, the camaraderie among the anglers was high, reflecting the sportsmanship within the Mackay Tournament Anglers community. The organisers extend their gratitude to all participants and express anticipation for the next round scheduled for March 23rd and 24th—the Fishtec Solutions Peter Faust Team Championship.
Captions
1: Mullet Mayhem, Keegan Hayden and Brendon King
2: Burnt Thumbs Fishing, Jason Crofts and Trevor Crofts who also caught the most Barra
3: Darcy McFarlane and Isaac McFarlane
4: Zerek, Liam Robinson and Benn Durkin
5: Gee Force, Finn Gee and Geoff Newby
6: Slock Assassins, Brad Hocking and Jack Rutherford
7: Off The Scales, Liam Sohier and Paul McFarlane
8: Brad Hocking secured the title for the biggest Barra
The North Mackay Sinkers Masters’ small but fun February meet attracted 37 registered swimmers last weekend, to the club’s home training pool at Mackay North State High School.
A large portion of the club participated but members were pleasantly surprised by the company of both the Mackay Swimming Academy Masters and Pioneer Swimming Club adults for additional local talent.
The meet also attracted out-of -town visitors from the Atherton Mountaineers, Long Tan Legends, Rats of Tobruk, Toowoomba Tadpoles and River City Masters.
The MSQ President Susanne Milenkevich attended to boost understanding at Branch level of small regional meets.
“It was great to have Susanne attend and cover many master’s topics,” said Dan Stampa, President of the North Mackay Sinkers Master's Swimming Club.
“We certainly appreciate the presence of all out-of-town swimmers and the effort required to attend,” he said.
“Our meet referees, JB, Peter Nowlan and Rob Lucas, kept us honest and provided tips and details for our new swimmers in the intricacies of strokes and turns.”
The meet included 800 and 400 events as a prelude to the MSQ State Championships.
The popular Skins event was a repeat handicap 25 freestyle last person swimming event hotly contested by locals and visitors alike, the prize money left town with Tony Croft of the Long Tan Legends.
“Our complimentary swimmer and volunteer prize was eagerly collected by long term master and Sinker’s member Geoff Robinson,” Mr Stampa added.
“In keeping with the club’s community spirit, we replaced our multi prize raffle with an appeal to swimmers for donations to support the Clubs March fundraiser ‘Laps for Life’ and realised $150 for this Reach out youth mental health initiative.”
The after-swim event was held at the Mackay Surf life Saving Club and was attended by over 30 guests in what proved an entertaining evening.
The Sinkers look forward to the next event, an open water swim scheduled for Sunday November 3 when the club hosts its annual river swim at the picturesque Balnagowan stretch of the Pioneer River. Mark it in your diary swimmers and choose 1.25, 2.5 or 5km events to test your endurance.
Captions
1: Round One of the skins elimination, won by Tony Croft of Townsville (2nd from camera)
2: All the fun of marshalling, time keeping and competing
3: One of the many starts of the day, the best part to any race
4: Action shots: Photo credit: Les Bunt
Mackay Contract Bridge Club
Results for week ending Sunday 25th February 2024
Monday 19 February 2024 – 4 Table Howell Green Points
North / South East / West
1st GEOFFREY PATTERSON - ROBERT CARLESS 3rd BARBARA TAIT - MARGARET LANE
1st EDWARD KLIESE - DIANE STOKES 4th MONICA DARLEY - SANDRA FORD
Wednesday 21 February 2024 –7 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South
East/West
1st
2nd
3rd
CARMEL BROWN - PATRICK RASMUSSEN
JOY ROBINSON - ROBERT CARLESS
MARIE MCGUIRE - NANCY WIX
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
SANDY PATTERSON - GEOFFREY PATTERSON
GWEN LIDDELL - ANNE LUTZ
KAREN CALDWELL - JEWEL SCHMIDT
JOSIE CROWLEY - BARBARA TAIT
Thursday Evening 22 February 2024 – 3 Table Howell Green Points
1st
1st
ANN WHITMORE - JANICE MANSFIELD
KEN SEANIGER - ROBERT CARLESS
Friday 23 February 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
North/South East/West
1st
JULIE O'NEILL - ANN WHITMORE
1st
MONICA DARLEY - GWEN LIDDELL
2nd
JOYCE DEGUARA - TONI LARGE
2rd
GEOFF COWAN - GEOFFREY PATTERSON
Saturday 24 February 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell - Green Points
North/South East/West
1st ANN WHITMORE - DIANE STOKES 1st KEN SEANIGER - JOY ROBINSON
2nd KAREN CALDWELL - NOEL SAUNDERS 2nd MONICA DARLEY - KATH POOLE
3rd ANNE LUTZ - MARGARET LANE 3nd JULIE O'NEILL - ROBERT CARLESS
Sunday 25 February 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points for Novice players and Mentors
North/South East/West
1st NOEL SAUNDERS - SUE MAYER-MILLER 1st DIANE STOKES - ANN WHITMORE
2nd SANDY PATTERSON - GEOFF COWAN 2nd DEBBIE LUDKIN - JOHN LUDKIN
Contributed by Robert Carless
Caption: Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris from Mackay are the top Queensland pair in the Novice Pairs Finals at 2024 Gold Coast International Congress
Mackay’s very own Lauren Morgan has been selected in the Australian Under 26 Women team to compete in the 8th World Youth Transnational Championships in Poland later this year. The Australian Bridge Federation have agreed to pay the team entry fees, but Lauren and the other team members need help to cover their travel costs. If anyone or any business would like to help fund the travel for this team or for Lauren, please contact the Australian Bridge Federation (02) 6239 2265 or youth@abf.com.au.
“Im super excited to be part of the Under 26 Women’s team and be able to positively contribute to youth bridge and inspire young women to play bridge,” Lauren said.
Mackay Contract Bridge Club - Weekly Results
Monday 12 February 2024 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Faye Wright
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy
2nd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
3rd
Susan Ross / Vicki Howard
3rd
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
Tuesday Evening 13 February 2024 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Eric Lievesley
2nd
Errol Morris / Sandra Morris
3rd
Mick King / Richard Wix
4th
Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden
Wednesday 14 February 2024 – Week 4 of 24 Nation Wide Pairs - 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Terry Sheedy / Eric Lievesley
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Sandra Morris / Jan Harris
3rd
Frances Brown / Alan Brown
3rd
Gwen Liddell / Anne Lutz
4th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
4th
Ming Ting / Debra Goodchild
5th
Noel Saunders / Mary Rose Ramsden
5th
Diane Stokes / Joy Block
Thursday Evening 15 February 2024 – 3 Table One Winner
1st
Errol Morris / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Noel Bugeia / Terrence Sheedy
4th
Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch
Friday 16 February 2024 - 8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
2nd
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell
2nd
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Joyce Deguara / Toni Large
3rd
Geoff Cowan / Geoffrey Patterson
4th
Ann Whitmore / Julie O’Neill
4th
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger
Saturday 17 February 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
1st
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Jewel Schmidt
2nd
Julie O’Neill / Robert Carless
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
3rd
Annette Howe / Laura Howland
4th
Geoff Cowen / Sandy Patterson
4th
Karen Caldwell / Noel Saunders
Caption: Lauren Morgan
A selfless group of eager participants met at the Mackay Marina at 5am, on Sunday morning to engage in a 60km Mackay Dragon Boat Club Paddle-A-Thon, raising vital funds for the prevention of homelessness, specifically to Chances Op Shop and Café.
With issues like inflation on the rise, the financial struggles and housing crisis continues to worsen, leaving more and more vulnerable locals out on the streets. It is for this reason that a not-for-profit organisation like Chances Op Shop and Café is so desperately needed to provide ongoing funds to continue to do their good works.
To help fundraise, Mackay Dragon Boat Club decided to create a special Sunday morning Dragon Boating event, raising both awareness and funds for the many effected by homelessness in the region.
Long term members of the Dragon Boat Club spoke on their personal experiences of the waterborne sport, encouraging all ages and fitness levels to give it a go.
Club Secretary, Dale Cramer expresses her love for the sport commenting, “I love that it’s a team sport, we are a very close knit, social team and we love to compete together.
“Whether you’ve got knee problems, back problems, anyone can have a go and you can sit down and work all the muscles from your knees to your neck.”
Club member of four years, Ron Del describes the variety of participants involved and the reasoning behind her ongoing participation.
“I joined for the friendship and the exercise, we’re like a family and it’s a beautiful marina to paddle in.
“We’ve got all ages joining, from a 70-year-old, who’s ready to jump in, right down to our youngest 27-year-old.”
Ron Del acknowledges the crucial importance of raising money and awareness for the cause stating, “The focus for today is we’re paddling for the people less fortunate than us.”
The team at Mackay Dragon Boat Club did not fall short of their efforts, after completing multiple laps around the Mackay Marina, showcasing their resilient dedication with welcoming smiles throughout the morning.
Congratulations to raffle winner Kylie who went home with the 4WD recovery kit from Bunzl Safety Paget.
Photo Credit: Hannah McNamara
Caption 1118: The ladies team starting off the morning
Caption 1260: Dragon Boat participants paddling for a good cause
Despite the threatening stormy skies, over eighty runners kicked off at 6.30am last Sunday morning to race the annual 5km and 10km Rural View loop. As runners crossed the finish line, Club Patron Col Meng OAM donated zooper doopers to cool down the devoted participants.
Club President Brendan Bishop welcomed many new and existing members to the first handicap points run of the year. Timekeeper and registration assistant, Arthur Dick and Julie Whibley had a big job ahead of them with an awesome number of members signing on ahead of their individual 5 km and 10 km events.
Mick Vivian, Mark McFadzen, Robin Stinson, Naomi Ballard, Alleny and Ollie Gorrion, Mel Esau, Ashlee Scott, Martin Lambert, Hamish and Shane Donnallen, Werner VanDerLinde, Michael Feenaghty, Emma Johnson, Craig McGahey, Nick Rewald, George Hannaford and Toby Rule all contributed to the amazing performances on show.
This Sunday will be the running of the inaugural MAD Fitness Mackay 5km Club Championship event from Queen’s Park via Shakespeare Street entrance commencing at 6.30am sharp. The 5km Club Championship has been running since the inception of the club in 1976.
Thanks to Erin, Owner of Mad Fitness Mackay Gym who has donated cash prizes for the first three male and female winners of the 5km as well as for random draw prizes.
For future events, runners must be on time and registered in with the timekeeper prior to gun time, preferably 6.15am so that the timekeeper can sync all runners into the computer for 6.30am racing.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Photo Credit: Mackay Road Runners
Caption 4338: Over 80 runners and supporters challenged the weather for a steamy 5k/10k run around Rural View circuit.
Caption 65200: Mick Vivian makes a welcome return to racing.
Caption 72001: Eighty years and 6 days old, Stuart Sprott loves his running.
Caption 72136: Craig McGahey REALLY loves his running!
Mackay Basketball have seen fantastic success, following both their Under 23 teams, the U23 Meteors Men’s and the U23 Meteorettes Women’s taking home the wins at the Mendi U23 Northern Leagues, held at Rockhampton last weekend.
The U23 Mackay Meteorettes Women’s Team played four fixtures, against the Rockhampton Cyclones, twice, the Cairns Dolphins, and the Townsville Flames, defeating all teams for a clean sweep win for Round 1.
GAME 1: Mackay Meteorettes 89 def Rockhampton Cyclones 64
GAME 2: Mackay Meteorettes 82 def Cairns Dolphins 67
GAME 3: Mackay Meteorettes 72 def Townsville Flames 49
GAME 4: Mackay Meteorettes 85 def Rockhampton Cyclones 48
The U23 Mackay Meteors Mens Team kept the wins coming, also in an unbeaten record, playing against the Rockhampton Rockets twice, the Cairns Marlins, and the Townsville Heat.
GAME 1: Mackay Meteors 111 def Rockhampton Rockets 81
GAME 2: Mackay Meteors 91 def Cairns Marlins 69
GAME 3: Mackay Meteors 110 def Townsville Heat 74
GAME 4: Mackay Meteors 91 def Rockhampton Rockets 59
Both teams will head to Round 2 with their heads held high, competing in Townsville on March 29 and 31.
1. U23 Mackay Meteorettes Women’s Team
2. U23 Mackay Meteors Men’s Team. Photos supplied
Last Saturdays Mackay Parkrun event was not only a celebration of personal achievements but also an appreciation to volunteers involved.
Allan Lorraway, achieved a remarkable new personal best by shredding off 1 minute and 36 seconds from his previous score in his 149th parkrun finish. His previous on-going participation and eagerness has finally paid off and members of the Mackay Parkrun couldn’t be prouder.
The success of Event #369 was made possible by the tireless efforts of a dedicated team of volunteers. Each volunteer wore their distinctive vests and contributed their time and energy to ensure the event ran smoothly. All of the parkrun helpers who volunteer consistently receive a ‘Volunteer Milestone’ for their efforts, ensuring those involved in assisting don’t go unnoticed.
Club members who have participated in the events for up to an impressive number of 250 times have also received recognition and a ‘250 Club Milestone.’
Mackay parkrun is a free, all inclusive, 5-kilometre run or walk that is timed. Weekly parkruns commence at 7am every Saturday morning.
If you’d like to partake in the event, registration is required in advance.
To become a volunteer, details are provided via Facebook, (Mackay Parkrun) or online at mackayparkrun.com
Photo Credit: Mackay Parkrun (Facebook)
Caption 1: Personal Best Wall of Fame
Caption 2: Mackay Parkrun Volunteers
Caption 3: Allan Lorraway (left), with the support of great mate Greg Dawes (right)
Caption 4: Participants kicking off their Saturday morning!
By Amanda Wright
A massive weekend of footy is coming up for our QCCS Mackay Cutters, followed by an NRL clash of Queensland crowd favourites with the North Queensland Cowboys taking on the Brisbane Broncos at BB Print Stadium, Mackay.
The Cutters’ HPC and BMD squads will play in their first trial against the CQ Capras on Sunday before the NRL trial, and all Junior Reps will have their first home game of 2024 against the Northern Pride on Saturday.
North Queensland Toyota Cowboys Head Coach Todd Payten said it had been a long pre-season and the players were ready to play, however locals were disappointed to see the two co-captains, Reuben Cotter and Tom Dearden, both originally from the Mackay region, were not named as part of the team for the trial.
Mackay Cutters captain Sean Mullany has been named to start at hooker for the Cowboys. Mullany is one of three feeder club players named in the squad alongside Kyle Schneider and Ewan Moore.
Emerging talent Jaxon Purdue will make his first Cowboys appearance in front of family and friends in his hometown. The electric half is in his first year in the Cowboys Young Guns program after starring for St Patrick’s Mackay in their march to Aaron Payne Cup glory in 2023.
Meanwhile, the Broncos are fielding a team with depth and experience, despite facing scrutiny over an incident involving two senior players. Patrick Carrigan and Adam Reynolds addressed media earlier this week to apologise for a public scuffle which unfolded last weekend. Playmakers in the backs like Reece Walsh and Corey Oats will likely create a challenge for the fresh Cowboys squad.
With the Broncos set to leave for the United States soon after the Mackay clash for Round 1 in Las Vegas, Walters will be looking to use this game as an opportunity to test the strengths and weaknesses of players both new and experienced.
Sunday 18th February Footy
BMD Kick-off: 11.00am
Hostplus Cup Kick-off: 12.30pm
NRL Trial Cowboys v Broncos Kick-off: 3:00pm
Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council
In a massive signing coup, Mackay Basketball are thrilled to announce that U.S import player Sam Haiby, will join the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes roster for the 2024 NBL1 season.
24-year-old Haiby will head to the Sugar City in March for her first professional playing contract, following a stellar basketball career at the University of Nebraska.
In 2021, the dynamic guard was named the Nebraska Most Valuable Player and earned All-Big Ten Second Team honours.
McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes Head Coach Jamiey Doevendans was delighted with the addition of the 176cm playmaker.
“Signing Sam Haiby to the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes is exciting and a credit to the program,” he said.
“Sam has a creative skill set and brings leadership to our group. Sam is also an outstanding all-round athlete, which suits our up-tempo and disruptive style. I can’t wait for her to get here and show what she can do.”
Haiby shared her eagerness about playing her first season abroad in Australia.
“I’m so excited and grateful for this opportunity. I can’t wait to get to Mackay, meet my teammates and coaches and interact with the community.
“I’m so excited to get this season going,” Haiby said.
Haiby finished with a Nebraska school-record of 139 games played, while ranking No. 12 in Husker history with 1,618 points, No. 6 in assists with 477 and No. 16 in career rebounds with 642. She is the only player in Husker history to achieve the combined career milestones of 1,000 points, 500 rebounds and 400 assists.
Haiby closed her final college season in 2023, averaging 10.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, 2.9 assists and 1.5 steals over 22 games.
Caption: Welcoming Sam Haiby to the Mackay team for the NBL1 Season. Photo Credit: Mackay Basketball
Monday 5 February 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Ming Ting / Pamela Finger
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Faye Wright
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Monica Darley / Nancey Martin
3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
3rd
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
Tuesday Evening 6 February 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden
3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Terrence Sheedy
4th
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
Wednesday 7 February 2024 –Wee 3 of 24 Nation Wide Pairs - 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
1st
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan
3rd
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
3rd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
4th
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting
4th
Terry Sheedy / Eric Lievesley
5th
Diane Stokes / Joy Block
5th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
Thursday Evening 8 February 2024 – 3 Table One Winner
1st
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Noel Bugeia / Terrence Sheedy
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
4th
Susan Ross / Jan Harris
5th
Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers
6th
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
Friday 9 February 2024 - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Antonia Taradas / Graham Smith
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd
Joy Block / Griffin Bancroft
4th
Ted Cullinan / Mary Rose Ramsden
4th
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
5th
Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell
5th
Christine Nice / Diane Cox
Saturday 10 February 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger
1st
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
2nd
Ming Ting / David Ting
3rd
Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd
Joy Brunette / Helen Van Den Broek
4th
Mick King / Jan Harris
4th
Frances Brown / Alan Brown
5th
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
5th
Julie O’Neill / Patricia Garner
Contributed by Joy Block
Caption: Twenty-six Mackay Contract Bridge members are going to the Gold Coast International Congress for 2024 being held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre from Saturday 17th to Saturday 24th February 2024. Good luck to all participants
A huge weekend unfolded for Mackay Road Runners last week as they begun a parkrun last Saturday morning, followed by the set-up of the Jet Group Mackay Sports and Rec Expo held at the MECC, in which continued on through Sunday morning, not to mention their kick off of the first official Social 2024 Mackay Road Runners program that afternoon.
With the outcome of a very successful weekend filled with running, sporting and other recreational activities, the Mackay region’s amazing strength and depth presented itself within all ages, abilities and interests.
A big thank you to all volunteers who assisted throughout the events as well as Mackay Regional Council and Jet Group Mackay for sponsoring the Expo. Thank you to Colin Meng OAM for accepting our invitation once again to be our amazing Patron for another great year.
Congratulations to the club’s most experienced and respected member who turns 80 this week, Stuart Sprott, who has been a great advocate and role model for his family and has been a valuable contributor to the club for approximately twenty-two years! Additional congratulations to 2023 Male Club Champion of Mackay Road Runners, Paul MacKenzie who has been invited to a very prestigious endurance running event to be held in France in August, 2024.
This Sunday’s Mackay Road Runners Club event takes place from Wallmans Rd cul de sac, Rural View at 6.30am. This will be a scratch start race with handicap points on offer. Ensure you are a registered member to start accruing points immediately towards end of year awards.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Caption 4193 – Masters runner, Stuart Sprott celebrates his 80th birthday milestone. Photo Credit: Janelle Tilse
Caption 4196 – Mackay Road Runners Club Patron, Mr Colin Meng OAM (far left) cuts the ribbon to the first race of the 2024 program
Caption 4273 - (left to right) Club Secretary and Treasurer, Julie Whibley and Tim Magoffin welcome new runner Mr Ogilvie to Mackay Road Runners first official run of the year
Caption 4199 – Alana Knezevic (centre foreground) gets a great start in the longer distance event
The district bowls Aussie Day Carnival was once again organised and celebrated in style at Mackay City Bowls Club on Shakespeare Street.
Most of the district’s top bowlers were there to enjoy spirited games and sharpen their skills leading into a packed bowls calendar of 2024.
For the fifteenth year in succession, Jetson Salvage and Scrap Metal, PBC Compliance and R&T Pumps once again sponsored the event. These three businesses were acknowledged and thanked for their continuous ongoing support.
Congratulations goes to the winning team of Rob Menzies, Les McDermott, David Maskell and Trevor Kelly, who dedicated their win to the late Ashlee Knight of City Bowls.
Contributed by Warren Sturgeon.
Winning Team with Sponsors. Sean Dolan (Sponsor Jetson Salvage and Scrap Metal), Trevor Kelly, Les McDermott, Bob Menzies, David Maskell and Tony Warne (Sponsor R&T Pumps)
Colourful shirts aplenty on the green for S.Spann’s Airlie Beach team and J.Neeve’s City team
The bowls community and wider Mackay community was saddened to hear of the passing of Ashlee Knight last month. Ashlee was diagnosed with an optic nerve glioma and intercranial hypotension on 27th July, 2020.
Chemotherapy for Ashlee included completing twelve cycles over roughly what was an arduous eleven months of treatment.
During this period, Ashlee was on track to completing and graduating from her final days of Year 12, even finishing her English assessment hours after treatment, against her doctors’ advice.
Ashlee went on to graduate with flying colours at the top of her class, even continuing to play lawn bowls for the district, where she was selected for the Queensland Junior Squad.
Ashlee represented the QLD U25 Team in 2022 and 2023 versus NSW, won the QLD Secondary Schools Cup in 2019, was runner up in the QLD U18 Girls Singles in 2021 and was an inaugural member of the 2023 QLD High Performance Academy.
Condolences to Ashlee’s family and close friends.
Ashlee Knight
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures January 30, 2024:
Division 1:
BMW (Emma Widdup, Tony Bowman, Ian McKay) d Lexus (Barry Patterson, Andrew McHugh, Janice Kent) 9-2. Andrew d Emma -7, -13, 7, 12, 8.
Ferrari (Geoff Denman, Goncalo Serra, Robbie Richards) d Audi (Lee Brake, Lily Boland) 9-2. Lee d Robbie 7, 9, -7, -8, 5.
Jaguar (Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan, Vince Boeske) d Mercedes (Graeme Walker, Steven Whiting, Graham Brake) 6-5. Steven d Anne 7, 9, -3, -13, 5.
Division 2:
Isuzu (George Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, Mark Stam) d Kia (Matt West, Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson) 6-5. Geoff d Steve -10, 11, 3, -6, 11.
Nissan (Duncan Treloar, Simon Hogan, Will VanDeKaa) d Hyundai (Marie Taylor, Donna Abbott, Delma Knight) Donna d Simon -6, -10, 8, 7, 9.
Honda (Leo Gilbert, Andrea Nicholson, Jye Callander) d Mazda (Duncan Sheridan, Mark Sleeman, Niro) 7-4. Andrea d Duncan 14, -6, 8, -8, 9.
Division 3:
Alfa (Craig VanDeKaa), Kade Wright, Nehmat Dhaliwal) d Ford (Misha Palod, Tiffany Camilleri, Ollie Hamelink) 6-5. Nehmat d Tiffany 6, -7, 18, -6, 4.
Fiat (Tim Montford, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang) d Holden (Saisha Palod, Rohit Bansod, Anaya Reelh) 6-5. Anaya d Tim -6, 9, -5, 8, 8.
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures January 30, 2024:
Division 1:
Cheetahs (Donna Abbott, Doug Dungavell, Val Austin) drew Leopards (Charlie Payne, Steve Mathieson, Judy Zahn) 6-all. Doug d Charlie 7, 8, -5, -9, 10.
Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) drew Pumas (George Camilleri, Rhonda Payne, Coral Morgan) 6-all. George d Peter -8, 10, 4, -6, 6.
Lions (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Bryan Marshall) d Tigers (Delma Knight, Iris Grasso, John McGee) 7-5. Delma d Bryan -6, 7, 13, -13, 8.
Division 2:
Cyran (Charles Hamlett, Marie Taylor, Louise Gould) d Teal (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Cheryl Pearson) 10-2. Ken d Louise 7, -6, -7, 8, 6.
Aqua (Judi Hicks, Gloria Vella, Gerry Synnott) drew Lime (Helen Ware, Fred Saliba, John Hamelink) 6-all. Fred d Gloria 5, -7, 9, -5, 12.
Division 3:
Sapphires (Pam Keune, Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross) d Emeralds (Ian Dodds, Glenda Brookes, Trish Zamparuti) 9-3. Glenda/Trish d Madge/Darryl -8, 8, 8, -8, 7.
Diamonds (Frank Caruana, Bill Hey, Myles Dutton) d Rubies (Sharon Muller, Thelma Caruana, Glenda Dutton) 8-4. Sharon/Thelma d Frank/Bill -5, 10, 8, 12.
Steven Whiting in action in Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures. Photo: Charlie Payne
Ten Mackay teams played in the GNOT (Gold National Open Teams) 1st qualifying event on Saturday 3 February. Gold points are sought after by players as there are limited events that award Gold Points. Team Bugeia is currently in the lead, also congratulations to the novice players who entered this event. Good luck to all for the next round.
Weekly Results
Monday 29 January 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
1st
Noel Bugeia / Geoffrey Patterson
2nd
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd
Nancy Martin / Margaret Lane
4th
Susan Ross / Vicki Howard
4th
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
Tuesday Evening 30 January 2024 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
1st
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
2nd
Richard Wix / Janine Rodgers
3rd
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd
Susan Gibson / Karen Caldwell
Wednesday 31 January 2024 –10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Terry Sheedy / Eric Lievesley
1st
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
2nd
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan
3rd
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
3rd
Debra Goodchild / Ming Ting
4th
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
4th
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
Thursday Evening 1 February 2024 – 6 Table One Winner
1st
Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers
2nd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
4th
Geoff Taylor / Annie Lynch
5th
Mick King / Patricia Garner
6th
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
Friday 2 February 2024 - 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
1st
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
2nd
Antonia Taradas / Graham Smith
2nd
Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
3rd
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Richard Wix / Edward Kliese
4th
Ming Ting / David Ting
4th
Jewel Schmidt / Annette Howe
Saturday 3 February 2024 – GNOT (Gold National Open Teams) Gold Points
Teams
Players
1st
Bugeia
Noel Bugeia - Terry Sheedy - Janelle Conroy - Geoff Taylor
2nd
Brown
Alan Brown - Frances Brown - Janet Hansen - Diane Morgan
3rd
Goodchild
Eric Goodchild - David Ting - Debra Goodchild - Ming Ting
4th
Shuttlewood
Lorna Shuttlewood - Susan Wright - Faye Wright - Christine Nice
5th
King
Mick King – Patricia Garner – Julie O’Neill – Griffin Bancroft
6th
Darley
Monica Darley – Ken Seaniger - Nancy Martin – Margaret Lane
7th
Saunders
Noel Saunders – Ted Cullinan – Sandra Morris – Annie Lynch
8th
Schmidt
Jewel Schmidt – Diane Stokes – Annette Howe – Ann Whitmore
9th
Gaskell
Ian Gaskell – Carol Gaskell – Geoff Cowan – Sandy Patterson
10th
Lutz
Anne Lutz – Karen Caldwell – Susan Ross – Vicki Howard
Contributed by Joy Block.
(L to R) Noel, Terry, Janelle, and Geoff. Photo supplied
Walkerston Roosters Cricket Club are Mackay Cricket Association’s newly crowned Twenty20 First Division Shootout champions for the 2023-24 season.
The resurgent Roosters powered their way to a deserved title with a thrilling 14-run Grand Final victory over Pioneer Valley last Saturday night at Great Barrier Reef Arena to cap a memorable campaign.
Experienced stalwarts Sam Vassallo, skipper Chris Mceldowney, pace ace Adam Knezevic and quick Nick Lotarski featured prominently in the Roosters’ charge to the championship with top performances throughout the series.
Walkerston elected to bat first after winning the toss and posted a competitive 6-126 with valuable contributions from Masters representative skipper Vassallo (36 runs off 32 balls including five boundaries), Mceldowney (26 not out off 29 balls) and Neil Gustavson (20).
Pioneer bowling trump cards Dion Krisanski-Kennedy (3-26 off four overs) and Bailey Camilleri (3-29 off four) kept the Roosters in check with wholehearted performances.
Krisanski-Kennedy was close to best on field – nearly pulling off a sensational victory for the Valley with a dashing knock of 48 before he was stumped by Walkerston keeper Vassallo off the bowling of spinner Adrian Young.
The talented all-rounder cracked six boundaries during his 42-ball stint at the crease and shared a vital third wicket partnership of 76 with opening batsman Mitch English (39 off 47 balls) after the Valley lost two early wickets with only nine runs on the board.
At 2-85 the Pioneer outfit seemed on track to reach their target before the accomplished trio of the lethal Lotarski (3-22 off four), Mceldowney (2-20 off four) and cagey Knezevic (2-24 off four) masterminded an epic Walkerston victory after restricting the Valley X1 to 8-112.
The previous day the Roosters advanced to the trophy decider with a 22-run semi final triumph over Norths Devils at Great Barrier Reef Arena.
Vassallo (43 runs off 38 balls with four boundaries and a six), vice captain Jakob Frerichs (34 off 23 balls), Knezevic (27 off 14 balls with three boundaries and a six) and Luke Jackson (23 not out off 20 balls) helped the Roosters amass 6-143 with Kerrod Tortora (3-19 off four) the pick of the Devils’ bowling attack.
Norths (7-121) fell short in their run chase with opener Darryn Dyer (41 runs off 37 balls) looming as a potential batting hero before he was run out with the Devils well placed at 2-87.
Captains and Umpires for the Twenty20 First Division final played at Harrup Park last weekend. Photo credit: Mackay Cricket
The Hibiscus Coast District Scouts are on the lookout for passionate leaders ready to embark on an exciting journey of guiding and inspiring our local youth - the leaders of tomorrow. With the demand for scouting groups soaring, they urgently need energetic adult volunteer leaders to join in the thrill of the adventure.
Whether you're a parent eager to contribute or an individual with a zeal for volunteering, this is your chance to play a crucial role in supporting local youth on a thrilling path of learning and growth. Exciting details about this incredible opportunity can be discovered at the Mackay Regional Council's Sports Expo.
Becoming a scout leader isn't just about outdoor escapades and scouting principles; it's a dynamic, fulfilling experience that lets you reconnect with the vibrancy of youth. Plus, you'll have the fantastic opportunity to impart essential life skills to the children in our community. Get ready to join the excitement, shape the future, and be part of an adventure that's as thrilling as it is rewarding!
Try The Five
Participants are required to wear enclosed shoes (no crocs or sandals), a hat, bring a water bottle, and wear activity-appropriate clothing. The schedule includes paddling on February 3rd (book at https://www.trybooking.com/COFXS), a rope bridge on February 11th (no booking needed at the Sports Expo), archery on February 17th (book at https://www.trybooking.com/COGNJ), abseiling on February 18th (book at https://www.trybooking.com/COGNI), and mountain biking on February 24th (book at https://www.trybooking.com/COGNK). The activities are open to individuals aged 5 years and older, both youth and adults are welcome. It's four weeks of thrilling experiences. Please note that this is a volunteer activity, and youth participants cannot be dropped off without proper supervision.
It’s time to turn off the device and get outdoors. The Adventure awaits!
You don’t need to be a seasoned player to give netball a try. The Mackay Netball Association has teams for all players, from those who can simply just play for fun, to more competitive teams!
Ranging from children’s games to junior teams right through to senior competitions, this all-inclusive netball association gives those who are keen on joining a variety of options to make sure the players get the best out of their time on the courts.
“Last year we had 1700 members and we’re always looking for more,” said Mackay Netball’s Operations Manager, Sharon Sutherland.
Catering to those who are unsure about signing up, some Clubs offer an option to come and try to see if you like it before paying to register into a team. That way, you or your child gets the opportunity to attend a training session to see what it’s all about before making the big decision to join.
Small children’s games from 7 to 10 years are played in a modified manner, with no score and no winner or loser. This ensures the emphasis is on fun and skills development in a nurturing environment.
There are plenty of teams looking for new players for all ages.
“We start our competition junior grading at the end of February, we’ve got 13 clubs looking for players for teams located in Moranbah and throughout the Whitsundays, including 11 clubs in Mackay,” Ms Sutherland explains.
The Mackay Netball Association is aiming to have a demonstration at Mackay Regional Council’s Sports Expo at the demo zone for those interested in seeing netball skills in action. There will be club members and players at the Expo to answer questions and hand out information about the season ahead.
For more information, email operations@mackaynetball.com or visit Mackay Netball Association’s website, mackaynetball.com.
Mackay's biggest sport and recreation sign-on event is just over a week away.
The JET Group Mackay Sport and Rec Expo will have more than 100 clubs on display, creating a one-stop-shop of sport and recreation opportunities.
Mayor Greg Williamson said it was exciting to be back at the MECC for the second year in a row, after COVID-19 caused the event to go online-only for 2021 and 2022.
“This year’s event will be action packed, with a range of active zone demonstrations and all the usual prizes and competitions, such as nominate your favourite club and random draws,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The expo will include dozens of interactive booths, two active zone areas in the south foyer and interactive activities outside,” he said.
“The outdoor activities will include a Scouts’ rope bridge, dragonboat paddling, woodchopping and lawn bowls.
“In an effort to make the event more inclusive and accessible, we'll also have a relaxed session at the start of the event.
“We included the relaxed session at last year’s event, but it has been brought forward this year to an earlier time, 9am to 10am, to make it more accessible.
“The relaxed session is for people who appreciate a quieter environment. The doors to the MECC will be opened, lights turned down and sound levels kept to a minimum.
“JET Group Mackay have really picked up the ball and run with it, taking on the naming rights sponsorship for the second year in a row.
“To celebrate they are giving away $1000 to one of the clubs on display.
“Those attending are encouraged to nominate their favourite club at the event for a chance to win.”
One person who nominates their favourite club will also win a large trolley cooler bag, valued at $99, thanks to in-kind sponsor Brand Factor.
Harrup Park Country Club and its Great Barrier Reef Arena have come onboard again this year as a bronze sponsor.
Other sponsors for the event include media partners Star 101.9, 4MK and Channel 7.
The event will be held Sunday, February 11, from 9am to 1pm, with Star 101.9 broadcasting live.
For more information, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/sportexpo
What: JET Group Mackay Sport and Rec Expo
When: Sunday, February 11, from 9am to 1pm
Where: The MECC
Tickets: Free entry
JET Group Mackay is the proud naming rights sponsor for the 2024 event once again, and to celebrate they are giving away $2000 to local clubs!
1. SOCIAL MEDIA VIDEO COMPETITION - sport and recreation clubs
Local sport and recreation clubs who have registered for the JET Group Mackay Sport and Rec Expo can enter to win a $1000 cheque for their club!
> How to enter:
Create a short video to show how excited your club would be if you win, what you would spend the $1000 on and share it on social media. When sharing your video remember to include the hashtag in your social media post #mackaysportexpo. It’s recommended to email communications@mackay.qld.gov.au to let them know, so they can find your entry. Feel free to be as creative as you like and use the video to showcase your club, members and facilities.
In an attempt to host the one-of-a-kind Australia Day Carnival at the Mackay Bowls Club, Tropical Cyclone Kirrily had other plans and caused the region to prepare for the worst, resulting in a hard decision to postpone the event. Despite the weather warning threats issued throughout the week, a group of determined players declared the weather to be fine on the Friday and continued to play a game of bowls.
A game of Scroungers played off in the afternoon with a full group of bowlers brightening up the field in their Australia Day attire. In the final, a game of 21 ends was played with Antony Shepherd def Col Marks.
The Australia Day Bowls event will now be held on Saturday the 3rd of March, starting at 1.00pm. Nomination forms will be on Noticeboard at the Club. Raffles continue on Friday night so come along and support the club.
WEEKLY RESULTS
Winners of Winners were: Col Stevens. Mick D'Alesso and Brian Williams.
Winners of Losers were: Karina Dunn, Carol Savage and Brad Robertson.
Tuesday Bowls will continue starting at 1pm, Scroungers on Thursday starting at 2pm and Friday Ladies Social begins at 1pm.
Contributed by Mike Irving
Tropical Cyclone Kirrily was no match for these seasoned bowlers. Photo supplied
Thank you to the Mackay Regional Council for sponsoring Mackay Contract Bridge Club’s Australia Day session. An important part of the day was the introduction to play bridge that was held for visitors. Twelve visitors, potential new players were welcomed, which was a great turn out. We hope to see them back for the lessons starting on Tuesday morning, 6th February at 9am or Wednesday night, 7th February at 6.30pm. Any interested people are most welcome to attend. It’s an interesting game that really gets you in and challenges you. We run day, night and Saturday sessions, so it is suitable for retired people or people who work or have other commitments. It’s a great game for teens to centenarians and anyone in between.
Weekly Results
Monday 22 January 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy
2nd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
4th
Marlin Robins / Mick Robins
5th
Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
6th
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
Tuesday Evening 23 January 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Eric Goodchild / Noel Bugeia
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
2nd
Mick Robins / Diane Cox
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Eric Lievesley
3rd
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
Wednesday 24 January 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Geoff Taylor / Louise Renton
1st
Terry Sheedy / Eric Lievesley
2nd
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
2nd
Joy Block / Richard Wix
3rd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
3rd
Sandra Morris / Jan Harris
4th
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
4th
Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell
Friday 26 January 2024 - 12 Table Mitchell Green Points – Australia Day
N/S
E/W
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd
Sandy Patterson / Eric Goodchild
2nd
David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd
Mary Rose Ramsden / Faye Wright
3rd
Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell
4th
Robert Carless / Ken Seaniger
4th
Janelle Conroy / Pamela Finger
5th
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
5th
Marilin Robins / Mick Robins
Saturday 27 January 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
1st
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
2nd
David Ting / Ming Ting
3rd
Roland Taylor / Jarek Taylor
3rd
Terrence Sheedy / Thelma Caruana
4th
Frances Brown / Laura Howland
4th
Annie Lynch / Sandra Morris
5th
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
5th
Jewel Schmidt / Susan Ross
Contributed by Joy Block
Table of potential new players
Enjoying Australia Day play
Patricia Garner in the spirit
team kicked off at the Bluewater Lagoon for Shawn’s Summer Social Series, experiencing excruciating heat conditions which prevailed throughout the previous week and Australia Day long weekend. Club Captain and Race Director, Jim Ford switched up the course to reduce the exposure of heat by converting the event to a four-loop style. This newly structured route catered for those who were running the longer distances as well as the shorter distances and allowed for runners to monitor themselves throughout the steaming hot, tropical day.
Acknowledging the hardy efforts of Paul Mackenzie and Grant Holmstrom who showed no signs of slowing down despite their early morning hilly training session after they decided to add Jim’s afternoon session for a bit of fun! The younger age group included; Jarrod Mackie, Luke Leven, Lily Leven, Amber Holmstrom and Jess Harris, who performed extremely well in the testing conditions. Andrew Wallace and Carmel Mahon missed their running buddy, Steve Oberg, who’s currently in New Zealand. Speaking of NZ…David Isbister will be jetting off there shortly as well, taking his wife to celebrate her 70th birthday with family and friends and surely enjoying the much cooler climate there! Among the mighty performances on display; Greame Harris, Tim Dalton, Alana Knesevic, Glynis Forse, Leanne Coulthard, Brenda Windsor, Shane Barben, Simon Henderson, Daniel Stampa and Melissa Harris absolutely smashed it out on the day.
This Sunday’s final event for the 2023/2024 Shawn’s Summer Social Series will commence at 5.15pm from the Memorial Pool carpark opposite Canelands. There will be post run refreshments as usual, Zooper Doopers donated by Club Patron Col Meng as well as random draw prizes from the weekly $2 race fee. The remaining funds will be donated to Pancare (Pancreatic Cancer Research).
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Among over thirty runners, Melissa Harris takes the lead in the early stages of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series Bluewater Lagoon penultimate event for the 2023/2024 series.
Paul MacKenzie leads junior talent, Jarrod Mackie in the four loop 10km Bluewater Lagoon event.
Mackay Road Runners Jo, Kim, Leanne, Lauren and Glynis welcome new runner Michelle (2nd left).
Carmel Mahon, Andrew Wallace and Leanne Coulthard missing their running buddy, Steve who is in NZ.
Long-time Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixture organiser Iris Grasso has been honoured for her dedication to the sport.
Iris has been awarded honorary membership for 2024, which entitles her to one year’s free registration. The competition starts this Tuesday, January 30.
Iris and Pam Joyce have been the organisers for eight years since 2017, and their involvement goes back 20 years.
Steve Mathieson and Tony Bowman have taken over organisation of the fixtures, which kicked off with the traditional doubles tournament on Tuesday.
“But the base has been set high by Iris and Pam. The challenge is on,” Steve said.
Iris maintained the “Black Book” where she recorded all of the players, teams and related weekly and statistics information for each season, memories which Steve has digitised.
It took a number of days to complete due to Iris’s attention to detail when recording each season’s data. Looks like Steve was quite happy to hand the book back after such a long effort.
Andrea Nicholson (division 1) and Ken Best (division 2) took out the season-opening competition, which is held with different combinations on a rotating basis, first to 31.
If you’d like to join the fixtures, contact Steve on 0418 700 236.
Tuesday morning Mackay table tennis fixture organiser Steve Mathieson with Iris Grasso, who is now a full-time player. Photo: Charlie Payne
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures round 1, January 23, 2024:
Division 1:
Mercedes (Graeme Walker, Steven Whiting, Graham Brake) d Lexus (Andrew McHugh, Janice Kent, Tony Bowman) 7-4. Janice d Graeme -11, 10, -1, 9, 10.
Jaguar (Vince Boeske, Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan) d Ferrari (Jason Hodda, Robbie Richards, Geoff Denman) 9-2. Robbie d Vince 6, -8, -3, 7, 8.
Audi (Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake Lily Boland) d BMW (Ian McKay, Emma Widdup, Allan Edwards) 6-5. Emma/Allan d Mick/Lily -9, 8, -6, 9, 10.
Division 2:
Kia (Matt West, Geoff Cowan, Peter Goodson) d Hyundai (Donna Abbott, Delma Knight, Marie Taylor) 7-4. Geoff d Donna 13, -10, 4, 7.
Isuzu (Mark Stam, George Camilleri, Steve Mathieson) d Mazda (Mark Sleeman, David Symons) 6-5. Mark d Bulldog -5, 9, 7, 10.
Nissan (Will VanDeKaa, Duncan Treloar, Simon Hogan) d Honda (Leo Gilbert, Andrea Nicholson, Jye Callander) 9-2. Andrea d Simon -7, -4, 9, 8, 13.
Tuesday morning hit off with the annual doubles tournament, won by Andrea Nicholson (division 1) and Ken Best (division 2). The competition starts this week.
Janice Kent in action at the Mackay Table Tennis Centre
Mackay's fitness enthusiasts gathered last weekend to kick off the Mackay Triathlon Club's Aquathlon series, and the excitement is far from over. With two more races on the horizon, this aquatic adventure offers a refreshing way to beat the humidity while embracing a multisport challenge.
The Aquathlon series unfolds at the Pioneer Pool in North Mackay, providing participants with a unique combination of running and swimming. The course consists of a 2.5-kilometer run followed by a 300-meter swim in the pristine pool waters. For those seeking an extra dose of adventure, the sprint distance allows participants to repeat the run-and-swim sequence twice, adding an exhilarating challenge to the event.
This Sunday morning, set your alarms for 7:30 am as the Aquathlon series continues with another thrilling race. Whether you're a seasoned triathlete or a newcomer looking to dip your toes into multisport activities, this event caters to all fitness levels.
As the Mackay Triathlon Club gears up for a dynamic season, the Aquathlon series is just the beginning. On February 25th, the club is set to host a women's-only triathlon, providing a supportive and empowering environment for female athletes to shine. March brings the Teams Triathlon, fostering camaraderie and teamwork in the pursuit of fitness goals.
However, the spotlight of anticipation falls on the highly awaited Eimeo Triathlon in April. Mark your calendars for this pinnacle event, where athletes from Mackay and beyond will converge to tackle a challenging course and celebrate the spirit of triathlon.
Don't miss out on the action—dive into the Aquathlon series and embark on a journey of fitness, community, and multisport excellence with the Mackay Triathlon Club.
RESULTS
Enticer female winner: Shailee Mewha
Enticer male winner: Nathaniel Espartinez
Sprint female winner: Demi Caldwell
Sprint male winner: Christian Smith
Mackay Triathlon Club’s Aquathlon winners. Photo supplied
As the sun painted the sky with hues of orange and gold early on Australia Day, Moranbah buzzed with excitement for a unique celebration – the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon, an initiative proudly hosted by the Isaac Regional Council. The word had spread, and multisport enthusiasts from far and wide eagerly converged on this vibrant community to partake in the thrilling event. Thankfully, TC Kirrily had stayed far enough north to not impose a threat to competitors.
The triathlon offered a variety of distances, attracting participants of all fitness levels, from seasoned athletes to those seeking a refreshing challenge. The promise of attractive prize money served as an extra incentive, ensuring a spirited competition awaited the eager contenders.
More than just a race, the Moranbah Australia Day Triathlon became a beacon of community spirit, embodying the ethos of Isaac's 'people power.' Residents lined the routes, cheering and encouraging participants as they conquered the swim, cycling, and running segments.
For those who relish the thrill of swimming, cycling, and running, this triathlon was a perfect opportunity to showcase their skills and push their limits. Moranbah’s Australia Day Triathlon emerged not just as a sporting event but as a symbol of shared goals, communal support, and the joy of living an active and healthy lifestyle.
First Place Winners
Enticer Triathlon:
1st Female: Isabelle Cahill
1st Male: Isaac Hammer
Sprint Triathlon:
1st Female: Demi Caldwell
1st Male: Christian Smith
Team Triathlon:
1st Place: Miles Frequent Flyers
Mini Kids Triathlon:
1st Female: Grace Cahill
1st Male: Ashton Zweers
Mini Kids Aquathlon:
1st Place: Marcus Strauss
Aquathon:
1st Place: Belinda Binnekamp
Duathlon:
1st Female: Janine King
1st Male: Murray Wonnocott
Aquabike:
1st Place: Benjamin Medhurst
Australia Day Bowls at the Mackay Club will consist of two divisions of triples played during the afternoon, each consisting of two games of eleven ends starting at 1:00 pm. Division one will include bowlers, and division two will consist of two non-bowlers and one bowler. Prize money will be awarded to winners and runners-up in both divisions. Throughout the afternoon, a BBQ and Aussie food will be available. Bowlers and non-bowlers looking for an afternoon of fun and bowls are invited to come along to the Mackay Bowling Club.
Results: Tuesday - Social Day (12) Winners of Winners: Carol Savage and Brad Robertson Winner of Losers: Where Herwini and Niel Holt.
Thursday Scroungers (15) Winner: Niel Holt, Runner-up: Grant Edmonds.
Friday Ladies Mixed Social (10) All participants had a good afternoon.
Ladies Graded Pairs will be played on Saturday, January 27th, starting at 12:30 pm. Names should be submitted by Wednesday, January 24th. Men's Club Champion nominations close on Sunday, January 29th. Nomination forms are available on the notice board in the clubhouse.
Contributed by Mike Irving
Well done to Eric Goodchild and David Ting finishing second in the 500 - 750 Swiss Pairs division at Summer Festival of Bridge 2024 in Canberra. Well done also to Debra Goodchild and Ming Ting for finishing as solid sixteenth in their division.
While at home the Unders and Overs Teams event was held on Friday, with Team Stokes (Diane Stokes, Terrence Sheedy, Joy Block & Janelle Conroy), taking out first place, coming second Team Ross (Susan Ross, Richard Wix, Vicki Howard & Janine Rodgers).
Weekly Results
Monday 15 January 2024 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
NS
E/W
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy
1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
Joy Block / Nancy Wix
2nd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
3rd
Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
3rd
Diane Stokes / Edward Kliese
Tuesday Evening 16 January 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Diane Morgan / Sandra Morris
2nd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
3rd
Richard Wix / Joy Block
4th
Diane Cox / Faye Wright
Wednesday 17 January 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Geoff Taylor / Janelle Conroy
1st
Terry Sheedy / Eric Lievesley
2nd
Anne Lutz / Gwen Liddell
2nd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
3rd
Carol Gaskell / Ian Gaskell
3rd
Diane Stokes / Joy Block
4th
Frances Brown / Alan Brown
4th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
Thursday 18 January 2024 - 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
3rd
Griffin Bancroff / Diane Stokes
4th
Susan Ross / Jan Harris
Friday 19 January 2024 - 11 Table Mitchell Green Points Unders and Overs Teams
Team
1st
Stokes – Terrence Sheedy, Diane Stokes, Janelle Conroy, Joy Block
2nd
Ross – Richard Wix, Susan Ross, Janine Rodgers, Vicki Howard
3rd
McGuire – Marie McGuire, Geoff Cowan, Julie O’Neill, Jewel Schmidt
4th
Mayer-Miller – Kath Poole, Sue Mayer-Miller, Nancy Martin, Noel Saunders
Saturday 20 January 2024 – No results
Contributed by Joy Block
David, Ming, Pres. Noel, Debra and Eric
Pioneer Valley have advanced to the Grand Final of the 2023-24 Mackay Cricket Association Twenty20 Division One Shootout competition.
The Valley secured top position on percentages after edging out second placed Norths in their final round clash at George Gorrie Oval last weekend.
In a low scoring tussle, Pioneer openers Mitch English (51 runs off 52 balls) and Cody Filewood (46) led the way against the Devils with a vital opening stand of 84 to help post a tally of 5-128.
Norths (9-103) fell short of their target with Kai Higham (23) and Mason Kohler (21) the only batsmen to hit their straps after the Devils were tottering at 4-34.
Bailey Camilleri (3-21) and Jade Filewood (2-17) were the pick of the Valley bowlers with Jason Butterworth (3-18) a stand out for Norths.
The Devils will now square off with Walkerston in a Grand Final qualifier on Friday February 2 at Great Barrier Reef Arena after the Roosters (5-157) eliminated the Magpies (9-133) from finals reckoning.
A superb knock of 96 not out by Mackay representative batsman Sam Vassallo inspired Walkerston to a rousing victory that wrapped up third spot on the table.
The experienced Vassallo faced 64 balls and smashed a six and twelve boundaries – sharing a crucial sixth wicket partnership of 79 with team mate Tom Vandenberg (26 not out) after the Roosters were 5-78.
Young gun Liam Newbery (4-29) shone with the ball with support from skipper Chris Mceldowney (2-13) and Nick Lotarski (2-34) as the Roosters collected regular scalps to keep the Magpies at bay.
Wes Dyer (22), Ben Zurvas (21), Rhys McBride (20) and Adam Zurvas (20) failed to capitalise on enterprising starts for the Magpies, who also got value from bowler Conor Bryant (2-29).
Brothers posted a resounding victory over Souths with skipper Matthew Wicks and club stalwart Michael Dunn in outstanding form with the bat.
Wicks slammed 74 off 46 balls with eleven boundaries and Dunn (60 not out) off 52 balls as the pair registered a productive opening stand of 120 to help Brothers amass 3-177.
Rocklyn Miller hit 26 as Souths were bundled out for 109 with Toby O’Grady (3-20) and Floris Duvenhage (3-32) the chief destroyers.
Winner of the Norths v Walkerston finals clash will line up against Pioneer Valley in the trophy decider on Saturday February 3 at Great Barrier Reef Arena.
Amidst the stifling heat that clung to Mackay, the runners of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series found solace and support in an unexpected oasis. Dr. George Hannaford, from Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic at the Bucasia Shopping Centre, opened the doors of his air-conditioned clinic to over forty dedicated athletes. Dispelling the oppressive temperatures, the clinic provided a welcome respite for the runners before and after the challenging event.
The sweltering conditions failed to temper the competitive spirits as the runners tackled the intense heat with determination. In a showdown of youthful vigour, two junior runners, Luke Leven and Jarrod Mackie, set the pace in the fiercely contested 10km race. Their powerful performance and strategic support for each other dominated the field, showcasing their readiness for a promising running season in 2024. Meanwhile, reigning Mackay Road Runners Female Club Champion, Alana Knesevic, exhibited unwavering speed despite the off-season challenges and soaring temperatures.
The Bluewater Lagoon awaits the runners in the next leg of the series, commencing at 5:15 pm this Sunday. As the formal Mackay Road Runners calendar looms just three weeks away, the runners, including new faces and seasoned stalwarts like birthday celebrants David Isbister and Shane Barben, continue to push their limits.
Acknowledging the tireless efforts of Life Member Jim Ford and Andrew Short in course setup and coordination, the Shawn’s Summer Social Series approaches its conclusion. The final run, starting from the Memorial Pool car park, promises an exhilarating end to the series with random draw prizes and the refreshing touch of Zooper Doopers. Beyond the thrill of competition, the series aims to make a meaningful contribution, as excess funds will be donated to the Pancare Assoc in honour of Life Member and cherished athlete, Shawn Claydon, who succumbed to Pancreatic Cancer in August 2018. All are welcome to join, regardless of club membership, in celebrating community, resilience, and the spirit of running.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Approximately forty runners met at the Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic Clinic for the Shawn’s Summer Social Series #13 event from the Bucasia Shopping Centre complex
Dr George Hannaford from Mackay Spine Care Chiropractic generously donated a 50% discount voucher
Harvey and Vivian Knesevic are excited to run the 5km with Dad, Adam pushing them in the running pram
Jenny White and Geeta Ariana pace themselves in the 5km Shawn’s Summer Social Series
In a display of young talent and commitment, a group of athletes from Mackay Basketball's U12 division left an impressive imprint at the recent Next Gen Camp in Townsville. Congratulations to Marli Reid, Macey Egan, Audrey Walker, Harvey Geeves, Hunter Brown, Nash Novosel, Finley Philbin, Mitch Langham, Jack Taylor, and Onyx Wilson, the ten little legends who proudly represented Mackay.
The Next Gen Program, renowned for introducing young athletes to the Basketball Queensland training style and concepts, provided these budding talents with a weekend filled with skill-building drills and engaging games. The camp's focus on competition, 1-on-1 skills, and refining training habits showcased the dedication and enthusiasm of Mackay's U12 basketball stars.
The future looks promising for these U12 athletes, and the local sporting community eagerly anticipates the continued success of these rising stars on the basketball court.
Mackay Magpies Cricket Club remain in the Dixon Homes 2023-24 Twenty20 Division Two Shootout title mix.
The Magpies recently defeated Souths at the Magpies Showground to chalk up their fifth victory after six rounds and establish a six-point lead in the competition on 30 points from second placed Norths and Walkerston (24 points).
Ethan Morris top scored with 47 as the Magpies (5-98) eclipsed Souths (9-97) with fine bowling performances from Rory Franklin (3-19), Craig Randell (2-12) and young gun George Fortescue (2-21).
Walkerston (5-107) snapped the Magpies (8-92) unbeaten streak with an impressive victory at George Gorrie Oval.
Riley Jackson led the way for the Roosters with an unbeaten 58 off 54 balls with support from bowlers Noel Bickel (3-16) and Jordan Gray-Knight (2-12).
Jackson (39) also shone with the bat as Walkerston (1-117) slammed Brothers (8-116) at Roy Trevaskis Oval.
Lance Ryan (49 not out off 42 balls) and Joel McFarlane (15 not out), Scott Randles (2-18) and Jade Lees (2-23) also turned in top displays for the Roosters while Brothers were best served by power hitting opener and skipper Ian Kelly (32 off 20) with two sixes and three boundaries, Declan Mulherin (31) and Taylor Everson (19).
The flamboyant Kelly was at his destructive best as Brothers (4-194) toppled Norths (8-154) at Lancaster Oval – smashing a superb 80 off 47 balls.
In an entertaining knock that featured three sixes and eleven boundaries, Kelly combined with David Manning (38) for a second wicket stand of 113.
Other Brothers players to impress were Mitchell Casey (29 not out), Toby O’Grady (14 not out), Jamon Smith (3-23) and rising all rounder Jack Law (2-34).
Norths received value from Hakikat Singh Chauhan (37), Shawn Day (33) and Deane Cox (22).
Chauhan (37) and Jack Lyons (41 not out) guided the Devils (4-113) to a win over Sarina Spartans (111) with Cox (4-10), Aaron Durelli (3-13) and Jarryd Kallio (2-22) sharing the spoils with the ball.
David Pietzner (38), Ryan Pietzner (20) and Kobie Douvenhage (2-11) were the pick of the Spartans.
Pioneer Valley (4-171) registered an emphatic victory over Souths (51) at Cameron Oval with top performances from Cooper Spencer (55 not out) off 56 balls, Dean Zeller (51) off 26 balls and Brodie Martin (30).
Spencer and Zeller, who cracked two sixes and eight boundaries shared a fourth wicket union of 85 before Ben Schembri (3-7), Carlton Witherspoon (3-9) and Lachlan Altman (2-13) skitled their opponents in the 14th over.
The Valley (4-92) followed up with a six-wicket triumph over Pinnacle (89) with opening bat Spencer (33 not out), Russell Allen (31), Bennet Reginato (3-18), Altman (2-12) and Schembri (2-14) the stand outs.
Pinnacle (128) posted its first win of the season after sinking the Spartans (109) at Roy Trevaskis Oval.
John Fitzpatrick (31), Brendan Jenkin (23) and Michael McPherson (15), Damien Russell (3-6), Matt Boyd (2-13) and Brendan Prout (2-14) shone for Pinnacle while Sarina were best served by Russell Mortimer (24), Mason Procak (24), David Pietzner (23), Shaun Fisher (18 not out and 2-20), Hunter McMullen (3-21) and Tracee Williamson (2-24).
Get ready to swing into action as Mackay Tennis Association (located at Kippen St, right next to Harrup Park Country Club) invites you to embrace the thrill of tennis and pickleball in the upcoming 2024 fixture season. Whether you're an experienced player or just picking up a racket for the first time, there's something for everyone at the Mackay Tennis Association.
Tennis and Pickleball Come and Try Day:
Mark your calendars for Saturday, 27th January at 4 pm, as we kick off the season with a "Come and Try" day. Join us for an afternoon of fun, camaraderie, and the opportunity to enjoy the fantastic sports of tennis and pickleball.
Wednesday Night Fixtures:
For those seeking a mid-week hit of tennis, our Wednesday night fixtures are set to begin on 31st January. Sign-on dates are scheduled for 17th and 24th January at 6 pm. Current and new players are welcome to join this teams-based weekly competition.
Tuesday Ladies Fixtures:
Ladies, lace up your tennis shoes! Our Tuesday Ladies Fixtures commence on 13th February, with sign-on dates on 23rd, 30th January and 6th February, all at 9 am. It's a fantastic opportunity to showcase your skills, make new friends, and enjoy the competitive spirit of women's tennis.
Pickleball Social Sessions:
Join us every Wednesday and Thursday afternoon from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, and on Saturday afternoons from 4:30pm to 6:30pm for our lively Pickleball social sessions on our 6 marked pickleball courts. Whether you're a seasoned player or a curious beginner, these sessions offer a perfect blend of friendly competition and socializing. Combining elements of tennis, table tennis and badminton, come along and experience Pickleball, one of the fastest growing sports in the world.
The Mackay Tennis Association is committed to providing a vibrant and inclusive sporting community for players of all ages and skill levels. Our upcoming fixture season promises to be filled with thrilling matches, new friendships and a whole lot of fun. Don't miss out on the action – join us and be part of the tennis and pickleball excitement. It's time to hit the courts, make memories and serve up some unforgettable moments! See you there!
Jamie Duncan
Brett Walz and Gerard
On Sunday the greens at Mackay Bowls Club reopened to a great afternoon of Cut
Throat pairs Bowls.
The greens were full, with teams playing three games of eight ends. As teams
dropped out, two games of four ends were played.
Winners for the afternoon were:
Division 1 runners up: Lucky and Karina Dunn
Winners: Col Marks and Dot McNamara
Division 2 Runners up: Arthur Naylor, Toni Blucher, Brian Williams
Winners: Richard Bell, Julie Caban
Games will continue during the week.
Tuesday: Mixed social 3 bowl
Thursday: Scroungers
Friday: Social Mixed Bowls.
Australia Day: 26th January is afternoon Triples Social Bowls. A special day of bowls is with thanks to an Australia Day Grant from the Mackay Regional Council and More Air Mackay donating sponsorship. Bowlers and non-bowlers are invited to come along and celebrate Australia Day with us.
The day will start at 1.00pm.
Enjoy an afternoon of bowls and Aussie tucker.
Ladies graded pairs will be played on Saturday 27th starting 12.30pm. Names
in by Wednesday 24th.
Contributed by Mike Irving
Happy New to all from the Mackay Contract Bridge Club. We start the year with our Australia Day come and try day, with a free BBQ and a visit from the Major. February sees us welcome a new batch of beginners, information can be found on our Facebook page. We are very excited, this year the Mackay Bridge Club is hosting the Great Barrier Reef Congress on the long weekend in May, where we will be welcoming players from all over Queensland and Australia, so it’s a great year to get involved.
Weekly Results
Monday 8 January 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
2nd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
4th
Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy
Tuesday Evening 9 January 2024 – 4 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor
3rd
Terry Sheedy / Helen Van Den Broek
4th
Richard Wix / Mick King
Wednesday 10 January 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
1st
Sandra Morris / Jan Harris
2nd
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Frances Brown / Terrence Sheedy
3rd
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
3rd
Susan Wright / Bob Ellis
4th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
4th
Patrick Rasmussen / Carmel Brown
Thursday 11 January 2024 9 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Frances Brown / Ann Whitmore
2nd
Eric Lievesley / Griffin Bancroft
3rd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
4th
Mick King / Patricia Garner
Friday 12 January 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Alan Brown / Frances Brown
1st
Geoff Taylor / Joy Robinson
2nd
Terrence Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
2nd
Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
3rd
Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole
3rd
Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood
4th
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
4th
Christine Nice / Diane Cox
Saturday 13 January 2024 – 12 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
E/W
1st
Sandra Morris / Annie Lynch
1st
Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Frances Brown
3rd
Mick King / Jan Harris
3rd
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
4th
Joy Brunette / Helen Van De Breok
4th
Ken Seaniger / Joy Robinson
5th
Geoff Taylor / Toni Large
5th
Margaret Lane / Anne Lutz
5th
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson
6th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright
Contributed by Joy Block
Patricia Garner Life Master
Gail Gibbs, Shelly Lewis and Lynne O’Neill
Peter Cowling and Annette Howe
The fervour of basketball in Mackay is set to ascend to new heights as five talented athletes from the Crater secure their spots in the Basketball Queensland U20 men’s and women’s state teams. These athletes, set to compete in the forthcoming 2024 Basketball Australia National Junior Championships in Victoria next month, are poised to make their mark on the national stage.
The players who will don the maroon and gold at the championships include Charli Bliss, Monique Bobongie, Phoebe Holmes, Amarcio Doyle, and Max Cain. These gifted players, products of Mackay Basketball’s nurturing grounds, have exhibited exemplary skills and commitment, earning them coveted positions in the state teams.
Amidst the elation of their selection, local stars Phoebe Holmes, Max Cain and Amarcio Doyle have confirmed their re-signing with the Meteorettes and Meteors, for the upcoming 2024 season. Holmes, after a remarkable 2023 season where she exhibited prowess by averaging 8 points, 2 assists, and 2 rebounds per game, is primed to amplify her impact on the court this year.
Meanwhile, the seasoned Max Cain, at just 18 years of age, gears up for his fourth NBL1 season with the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors. His experience and contribution to the team have been invaluable, marking his journey as a promising talent in the league.
Joining Cain is the promising 18-year-old Amarcio Doyle, set for his second NBL1 season with the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors. His stellar performance in the 2023 campaign has solidified his position as a rising star, aiming for an expanded role within the team in the upcoming season.
The basketball community also celebrated Monique Bobongie being honoured as the Basketball Queensland 2023 Female Player of the Year. Her dedication and exceptional performances across various competitions have brought her recognition and accolades at both state and national levels.
These accomplished athletes represent the future of Mackay’s basketball legacy, showcasing the region’s potential in fostering top-tier sporting talent on the national basketball stage.
Mark your calendars for an exhilarating showcase of athleticism as Harrup Park and the Great Barrier Reef Arena unveil the inaugural Great Barrier Reef Arena Gift, slated to electrify Mackay on March 23, 2024. This eagerly awaited event promises a dynamic spectacle, spotlighting Australia's top running talents across nine thrilling races. It’s a celebration that embraces athletic prowess and community unity in a grand display.
Set on the newly completed Great Barrier Reef Arena grass track, the event upholds the long-standing tradition of Gift races across Australia.
The running event has now announced that they will hold the largest prize pool in Queensland, a grand total of $28,200 will be given away across different race categories. Declaring the GBRA Gift as the wealthiest gift in Queensland! Registrations are now open for both junior and senior runners, providing a golden opportunity to compete for the massive $28,200 prize pool. The event welcomes seasoned athletes and aspiring runners alike to participate in the races, which will commence in the midafternoon. The Gift Finals, promising electrifying moments, will unfold under the vibrant lights of the Great Barrier Reef Arena.
Adrian Young, CEO of GBRA, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "This inaugural event not only highlights the exceptional skills of Australia's top runners, but also offers the chance to claim the largest prize pool in Queensland, supporting aspiring athletes on their path to success in the lead up to the 2032 Olympics.”
The event guarantees more than just riveting races. Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere filled with kids' activities, a mini eat street, and an exhilarating chili-eating contest. Families and sports enthusiasts are encouraged to be part of this historic event, ensuring an unforgettable night of sporting excitement. Moreover, entry is free for all spectators, ensuring that the Great Barrier Reef Arena Gift offers an inclusive experience for the entire community.
Athlete registrations are now open. For registration details and forms, visit GBRA GIFT - Great Barrier Reef Arena online.
Junior events include:
• 120m 10-12 years for both girls and boys.
• 120m 13-14 years for both girls and boys.
• 120m 15-16 years for both girls and boys.
• 120m 17-18 years for both girls and boys.
Gift events include:
• 120m Open Men’s & Women’s Gift
• GBRA Mile – Men’s & Women’s
• 70m Open Men’s & Women’s
• 70m Masters (30+) Men’s (Restricted) & Women’s (Restricted)
• 1000m Open Combined (Men/Women/Masters)
• 300m Open Combined (Men/Women/Masters).
Junior registrations are accepted at any time, up to and including the event day, but no later than 10 am on the day. Open and masters’ registrations close on Friday, March 8, 2024.
The Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday regions are gearing up for an exciting artistic endeavour that promises to elevate the profile of local graphic artists while offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase their talent.
This remarkable initiative provides an opportunity for a Youth Artist from the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday Regions to design the artwork that will be featured on the 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride cycling jersey and proudly worn by approximately 1,000 participants on Sunday 1 September and beyond.
Linda Murry, General Manager of BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Hay Point Coal Terminal, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, "We are excited to raise the profile of graphic artists within our region, giving them the opportunity to have their artwork featured on about 1,000 cycling jerseys in 2024. This challenge is the perfect platform for young artists to kick-start their portfolio for a future career. There is so much talent in our region, and to showcase this on a larger scale with prize money is something we are very proud to be a part of."
The River 2 Reef Ride jersey has been a highly coveted item by event participants since its inception back in 2011.
Nikki Giles, BMA River 2 Reef Ride’s Event Director, says “every week we see past River 2 Reef Ride jerseys on cyclists not just in Mackay but all over the state. Our event participants wear these jerseys years after the event has taken place.”
“The 2024 jersey design will be captured by the BMA River 2 Reef Ride event photographers, literally thousands of photos will be taken and distributed across multiple social media and marketing platforms with the winning artists’ design front and centre.”
Nikki says, “the talented youth artist who wins this competition can expect to see their design pop up randomly on riders for years to come, what a great way to get your name out there into the public arena.”
The Youth Design Challenge is open to all high school students born between July 1, 2006, and June 30, 2012, within the Mackay, Isaac, and Whitsunday Regions. Submissions are now being accepted and will close on March 3, 2024.
Once the submission period ends, a panel of judges will shortlist the entries down to three designs, which will be presented for public voting. The winning design will be announced on April 3, 2024, and the selected artist will receive a cash prize of $500 for 1st Prize. The 2nd Prize winner will be awarded $250, and the 3rd Prize winner will receive $100.
This challenge not only offers budding artists the opportunity to leave their creative mark on the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival but also empowers them to receive recognition for their skills and creativity within the local community and beyond. Don't miss this chance to be part of a unique artistic endeavour that will showcase the remarkable talent of our region!
For more information about the Youth Design Challenge and the submission process, please visit https://www.river2reefride.com.au.
Participants wearing the 2023 River 2 Reef Ride cycling jerseys
With more than thirty eager runners joining the 11th leg of the Shawn’s Summer Social 2023/2024 Series, the weather brought a mix of overcast skies and breezes, offering respite from the heat. Despite the humidity, participants tackled 5km, 10km, and various distances in between, starting from the Magpies Sporting Club carpark and winding through Glenella's back streets towards the Gooseponds. Notably, pram pushers like Adam Knesevic and Ryan, and Bec Evetts manoeuvered their double prams expertly, making the run an enjoyable family affair!
This upcoming Sunday's leg of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series is set to kick off at 5:15 pm, starting from the Blacks Beach Tavern carpark. Anticipate an array of challenging terrains, ensuring an exciting experience for all, with special consideration for runners with prams. As tradition holds, the event promises the ever-refreshing Zooper Doopers awaiting participants at the finish line. Join in for an evening of invigorating runs and family-friendly fun!"
Story and photos contributed by Janelle Tilse
Mackay Road Runners regulars welcome new runner Leanne to the off-season social series (left to right) – Natasha, Leanne, Stephen, Carmel, Andrew, Glynis and Emily
Paul MacKenzie (purple singlet) bolts from the gun with nearly thirty other keen runners
Grant Holmstrom easily skims over the 10km meandering course
Jose Short continues her training in the off season ready for the 2024 formal running program commencing in 4 weeks
Families including big kids and little kids are always welcome to Mackay Road Runners events – see the Knesevic, Evetts and Sant families
Mackay native Ky Hamilton has established himself as the world’s best bull rider.
The teak-tough Queenslander created history before Christmas when he captured the 2023 Professional Rodeo Cowboy Association Bull Riding World Championship.
Hamilton showed tremendous courage and skill during the United States National Finals Rodeo in the hallowed Thomas & Mack Arena in Las Vegas to become the first ever Australian to claim a bull riding world title.
The former Mercy College student overcame a concussion, a broken rib and a night in hospital to win the premier event – passing several milestones along the way.
In clinching the world title, 23-year-old Ky set a new prize money record by winning $515,414 in a single year.
As well as taking home the coveted PRCA Gold Buckle, the Aussie hero was named overall Average Champion and Top Gun Winner for dominating the Wrangler NFR event.
It was the perfect Christmas present for Ky with his Mackay connection - parents Sharelle and Michael Hamilton and grandparents Yvonne and Bill Stevens – in Las Vegas to witness and celebrate this remarkable career moment.
Since arriving in Texas as a rookie 18 year old the determined Hamilton has stamped his mark on the professional bull riding circuit.
He attended Odessa College and Sul Ross University on a Bull Riding scholarship and is now on a Sport Visa, competing against the world’s best riders.
Hamilton joins ProRodeo Hall of Famers Dave Appleton (all-around, 1988) and Glen O'Neill (saddle bronc riding, 2002) as the only native Australians to win PRCA World Championships.
Ky is also the first Australian to claim the NFR Average title since fellow Queenslander Greg Potter of Ridgelands accomplished the feat with 502.5 points on six head in 2003.
Hamilton has won plenty of admirers for his sheer courage and tenacity in riding some of the fiercest and most powerful bulls on the ultra-competitive circuit.
That toughness was evident when he returned to the yellow bucking chutes - just 16 hours after being knocked out during his ride aboard MAGA during Round 5.
Ky was flung violently after he smacked heads with the bull and taken away in a stretcher to Nevada’s UMC Trauma Centre to be treated for concussion, a broken rib and bruising to the lung.
Written off as a title contender, he returned the next day in sensational circumstances to secure his inaugural world championship.
Bull riding pundits have described Hamilton’s feat as one of “the greatest in rodeo history.”
Australian Professional Rodeo Association president Shane Iker said the achievement was “a dream come true, not just for Ky but for Australians.
“He’s an icon for Australia and the sport, Ky speaks so well and represents us so well. It’s amazing” he added.
Mackay’s new world bull riding champion Ky Hamilton demonstrates his skill and courage during the United States National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas before Christmas
Enjoy the thrills and test your mountain bike skills at the Finch Hatton pump track, which officially opened a few days before Christmas.
The new pump track features more than 400 linear metres of specially designed track, offering a huge range of hump styles and sizes for riders of all ages and skill levels to enjoy.
Visitors can access the pump track via the car park at the Finch Hatton Trailhead site, or they can walk their bikes through the pathway from Bagley Street. Toilets will be made available on site.
Visitors are encouraged to take plenty of water for a trip to the pump track and remove all rubbish when they leave.
The opening of the pump track is an exciting milestone in the Finch Hatton MTB project. The trails are still too fresh to ride, and recent rains on the newly formed trail networks need more time to dry out and cure.
Council looks forward to opening the trails and the remainder of the trailhead facilities in January, weather permitting. Stay up to date via the Finch Hatton MTB Facebook page.
The Finch Hatton MTB pump track is open to the public
After the New Year’s Eve storm passed, eager runners laced up their sneakers for a special New Year’s Day parkrun through the Botanic Gardens.
Event number 362 for Mackay parkrun saw seven personal milestones achieved for runners and presented the perfect opportunity to look back on what was a record-breaking year for the running group.
2023 Statistics:
.
Annual Attendance - 13,438
(Previous best - 10,239 in 2019)
.
Average Event Attendance - 258.42
(Previous best - 254.35 in 2020)
.
Total Volunteers - 792
(Previous best - 718 in 2022)
.
Course Record - Toby Rule 16:24 (17/06/2023)
(Previous best - Jared Havemann 16:27 in 2023)
.
Individual Facebook post reach - Mark Chant PB streak - 218,000+
.
8 out of the 12 months had their attendance records eclipsed
.
Individual No. of Volunteer weeks in a year - Christine Davies (44)
Photo credit: Mackay parkrun (Facebook)
Vibrant memories from the Hawaiian-themed horse racing day at Mackay Turf Club. Relive the tropical flair and racing excitement that graced the tracks on this colourful day. Photos supplied, Mackay Turf Club
Saddle up, Sarina!
This New Year's Eve, prepare for a thrilling, heart-pounding experience unlike any other as the town welcomes a groundbreaking event to ring in 2024 - a bull riding competition with a twist.
Organised by Borghero Mini Buckers, this isn't your typical rodeo; it's an entertainment spectacle set to ignite the Sarina Showgrounds with pulsating beats, adrenaline-pumping action, and family fun under the stars.
Danny Borghero, a seasoned bull rider with over two decades of experience, is spearheading this revolutionary bull riding series, aiming to support and boost grassroots bull riding in North Queensland. With his three sons Jay, Jared and Ky, making waves in the bull riding world with multiple championship wins, the Borghero family knows the sport inside out.
Eldest son Jared has been a champion bullrider and is now a bullfighter or protection athlete. Jay is also a champion bullrider and youngest son, Ky, has been a junior champion and is stepping up to the open category.
On NYE, Ky will headline the action alongside other top riders set to be announced this week.
"This New Year's Eve bullride will be a high-action spectacle with non-stop riding and fighting," Danny Borghero shared. "But instead of only being open to professional bull riders, this event is open to all classes, providing an inclusive platform for riders of varied skill levels."
It's not just about the thrill of riding - this event serves as a catalyst for nurturing budding talent. From novices to juniors, steer to mini bull riders, and even the poddie category, riders of all ages and abilities will have their shot at the spotlight. Danny is focused on encouraging younger kids to join the sport.
"It's a great opportunity to develop the sport from the ground up and give our kids more riding and competition opportunities," Danny affirms.
The icing on the cake? For under-18 riders, the series offers a shot at competing in the United States, a dream opportunity that could shape their riding careers. The top two riders in the Under 18’s in the finals will have the opportunity to travel to the US to compete in the World Finals.
It’s full-on entertainment throughout the evening with a DJ, fog machine, flame torches, children’s entertainment including a jumping castle and face painting, a bar and specialty food vans – not to forget the fireworks at 9pm and again at midnight.
Beyond the riveting action, this event proudly stands behind the charitable organisation LIVIN, advocating the message that "It ain't weak to speak," supporting mental health awareness and resilience.
Tickets at the gate will be limited, so securing them online is advised to guarantee entry to this adrenaline-fueled extravaganza.
Special recognition goes to Tandy Concrete, Mackay’s only Queensland-owned concrete plant, for their support, making this unforgettable event possible.
Get ready to witness the thunderous hooves, the bravado of riders, and the electrifying energy that'll set Sarina's NYE on fire!
Event Details:
● When: NYE, 31st December
● Gates Open: 3 pm | Show Starts: 5 pm
● Where: Sarina Showgrounds
● Cost: Adults $25, Students $15, Under 5 FREE, Families (2 adults, 2 kids) $60
● Tickets: Available online via trybooking.com
Ky Borghero will be competing at Sarina’s New Year’s Eve bull riding extravaganza. Photos supplied
A REJUVENATED Magpies first grade X1 are back in the hunt for the Mackay Cricket Association Twenty20 Division One Shootout title.
The reigning Poole Cup champions zoomed into trophy calculations after posting twin victories last weekend to grab a share of the competition lead with Pioneer Valley.
Both the Magpies and Valley are the current Shootout pacesetters on 24 points with four victories each after five rounds.
In a timely return to form the Magpies edged out the Valley at Great Barrier Reef Arena last Friday before rolling Walkerston the following day to climb their way back to the top.
Blake Ryan (32), Adam Zurvas (25 not out), Ben Zurvas (28) and Andrew Borg (24) steered the Magpies (3-124) to a win over Pioneer (3-123) – despite the batting heroics of in-form all-rounder Cody Filewood who smashed an unbeaten 71 off 67 balls.
Adam Zurvas clouted a stylish 59 and Ryan (25) and paceman Todd Dixon grabbed 3-33 as the Magpies (4-126) toppled Walkerston (5-125) after top knocks from Luke Jackson (50 not out) and Neil Gustavson (35).
A superb display by Masters representative all-rounder Chris Mceldowney piloted the Walkerston club to an impressive victory over Souths at George Gorrie Oval.
The Roosters skipper grabbed 3-11 off 24 deliveries to restrict Souths to 5-138, trapping hot shot Shaun Austin leg before wicket after a swashbuckling 96 off 60 balls that included thirteen boundaries and a six.
Mceldowney then hammered 59 off 31 balls with five sixes and three boundaries to guide Walkerston (6-140) to their second win of the series with support from Sam Vassallo (28) and Etienne Pretorius (27).
Norths (2-102) cruised to victory over Brothers (8-100) with classy knocks from Chris Day (48 not out) and Lane Kohler (42) who faced 19 balls and hit five boundaries and two sixes.
Pace duo Mason Kohler (3-31) and Kerrod Tortora (2-19) shone with the ball with the speed merchants also making an impact in Norths’ narrow loss to the Valley.
Skipper Tim Cridland (43 not out) and the prolific Filewood (26) helped the Valley register 9-126 despite a magic spell of pace bowling by Tortora, who snared 6-14 off four overs.
Mason Kohler took 2-31 then compiled an unbeaten 34 and Darryn Dyer (33) as the Devils (8-113) fell short in their run chase.
Brothers (1-98) notched a second triumph in the competition after skittling Souths for 94.
Joseph Hackney (41 not out) and Michael Dunn (29) set up the victory with an opening stand of 56 after Floris Duvenhage (4-22) and Mitch Wadsworth (2-23) had starred with the ball.
In what looms as the biggest NBL1 off-season signing to date, Mackay Basketball announced the return of local hero and Australian Boomer Todd Blanchfield to the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors for 2024.
The 15-season, 385-game NBL veteran will journey home to Mackay following his current campaign with the Illawarra Hawks, adding outstanding productivity and versatility to the Meteors NBL1 North line-up.
The 32-year-old is coming off arguably his best NBL1 season to date, where he averaged 25 points (5th overall- NBL1 North) and 12 rebounds (1st overall-NBL1 North) for the Gold Coast Rollers, enroute to earning All-League First Team honours. He posted three 40+ point scoring outbursts in 2023 and had four games where he collected 15+ rebounds.
Blanchfield last suited up for Mackay in 2018, where he was named Most Valuable Player of the Queensland Basketball League. The 198cm swingman shared his excitement about a return to where it all started.
“Mackay will always be home and my family and I are so excited to be coming back,” Blanchfield said.
“I’m looking forward to representing the city and giving back to the place that gave me so much as a junior, all while competing with the boys for an NBL1 North championship.”
McDonald’s Mackay Meteors NBL1 Head Coach Joel Khalu was also elated about the signature of Blanchfield.
“This is certainly a huge day for our club,” Khalu said.
“Having a player of Todd’s calibre returning home to play NBL1 is massive news.”
“Not only is it enormous from a roster standpoint, considering that Todd is undoubtedly top player in our league, but more importantly for the community, that our young players will have someone of his pedigree in the stadium every day for them to aspire to.”
“I think playing-wise he takes our team to another level. What he brings to our group at both ends to the floor is probably something we really missed last season.”
“Offensively, he can space the floor with his perimeter game but can also get feet in the paint and create for himself, or for others.”
“Defensively he can guard multiple guys, but for me it's also his vocal leadership and communication that separates him as an elite player too.”
“I know our fans here in Mackay will be pumped to have Todd back next year and we’re going to have a full house in the Crater for every home game,” Khalu added.
More Mackay Basketball NBL1 player announcements are expected in the coming weeks.
Pioneer Valley Cricket Club have staked an early claim for the Mackay Cricket Association Division One Twenty20 Shootout championship title.
The undefeated Valley X1 launched their series campaign last week with three impressive victories in the 20 overs format and lead the competition on 18 points.
Norths Devils and the Magpies are in second and third spots respectively on 12 points after each registering two wins from three fixtures completed.
Gun all-rounder Cody Filewood is the Valley’s cricketer of the moment – smashing 200 runs from his three appearances with the bat at an impressive average of 100.
A highlight was Filewood’s unbeaten knock of 111 in Pioneer’s comprehensive win over Brothers last Saturday at Mirani State High School grounds.
The talented number three faced only 58 balls and cracked five massive sixes and twelve boundaries in a cavalier knock to help the Valley post 1-190.
Filewood shared an unbroken second wicket partnership of 176 with opener Dion Krisanski-Kennedy (61 not out) – then grabbed 3-23 with his off-spin bowling to help restrict Brothers to 8-137.
In the Valley’s opening round win over Walkerston, the dashing Filewood hammered 69 and also hit a quick 20 runs in his team’s resounding victory over Souths.
Another highlight was a superb century from Walkerston’s legendary representative batsman Jakob Frerichs in a gripping loss to Norths at Roy Trevaskis Oval.
The left-handed opener and team vice-captain clouted an unbeaten 122 off only 59 balls to help Walkerston register 6-197 with support from Luke Jackson (21).
Frerichs smashed an incredible eleven sixes and ten boundaries during his epic knock – but to no avail as the Devils (5-198) reached the target with five balls to spare.
Norths were best served by Lane Kohler who cracked a power-laden 84 off 39 balls with seven boundaries and seven sixes, Darryn Dyer (46), Jason Butterworth (25), Chris Day (19 not out), Kai Higham (2-29) and Mason Kohler (2-39).
Mason peeled off an unbeaten 49 to guide the Devils (2-98) to a first round triumph over Souths (97) with Jarryd Kallio (4-20) and Lane Kohler (3-18) the chief destroyers with the ball.
Souths skipper Shaun Austin played a lone hand with 48.
Magpies (9-129) edged out Norths (9-126) with Rhys McBride (42), Adam Zurvas (25) and Todd Dixon (3-19) leading the way and rolled Souths for 77 – posting their second win after top knocks from McBride (37), Adam Zurvas (23 not out) and fine bowling from leg spinner Liam Zurvas (2-9), Tim Heard (2-13), Dixon (2-19) and Conor Bryant (2-21).
Brothers (2-47) skittled the Magpies (46) with Michael Dunn (4-13), Chris Dunn (2-10), Floris Douvenhage (2-10) and Mitch Wadsworth (2-13) impressive with the ball.
Mackay-Whitsunday representative skipper Sam Vassallo starred for Walkerston with knocks of 40 and 68 not out with support from Neil Gustavson (33 and 30) and swing merchant Adam Knezevic (4-31).
By Chris Karas
Life is rewarding for Mackay’s emerging rugby league playmaker Adam McSherry.
The fifteen-year-old St Patrick’s College student capped a memorable 2023 when he received the Caleb Woodland Memorial Award for the dedication and courage shown during an eventful campaign this season.
McSherry accepted the trophy at the Junior Sports Award ceremony staged at the College’s Mercy campus from graduating St Patrick’s student and Queensland Schoolboys hooker Xavier Kerrisk.
It has been a year to savour for the outstanding utility half who was one of the shooting stars in Tom Gaviglio’s all-conquering Year 10 St Patrick’s team that captured both the Cowboys Challenge Shield premiership and State Regional Championship trophies at BB Print Stadium.
McSherry played a key role in the 24-10 Cowboys Challenge Grand Final triumph over Ignatius Park Townsville and was a standout when St Patrick’s thumped Rockhampton’s Emmaus College 44-0 in the State Regional Championship decider seven days later to preserve their undefeated record.
The classy colt menaced the Rockhampton defence with his tricky footwork and clever ball skills, nabbed a superb solo try and booted three goals in a stellar performance.
Adam was just as impressive for the Mackay Brothers club – steering the Bulldogs to an Under 15s premiership in the Mackay Junior League competition.
Creating havoc with his ball play in the number six jumper, McSherry engineered a 34-26 Grand Final victory over the Moranbah Miners at BB Print Stadium - turning in a best on ground performance with two tries and five goals.
The Brisbane Broncos identified Adam as a top prospect from an early age.
He was named in their Academy squad at the age of thirteen and secured his immediate future earlier this year when he signed a contract with the prominent NRL club.
A dedicated McSherry was thrilled to receive the Award that perpetuates the memory of 14-year-old Caleb Woodland, a Year 8 student at Mercy College Mackay, who had his life tragically cut short when he was involved in a road accident in Sarina back in 2011 on his way to catching the school bus.
Outstanding rugby league prospect Adam McSherry receives the Caleb Woodland Memorial Trophy from St Patrick’s graduate and Queensland Schoolboys hooker Xavier Kerrisk, who joins the North Queensland Cowboys in 2024
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club recently travelled to Alva Beach, Ayr to compete in the North Barrier Branch Champion Lifesaver Carnival. The event involves lifesavers being assessed on their surf sports fitness, patient assessment and CPR skills, as well as a detailed theory paper.
Mackay SLSC Director of Surf Sports, Josh Grant said, “This competition is extremely important in developing the skills of our lifesavers.
“These are the people who patrol our beaches and are there for the community to make going to the beach safe and enjoyable.
“It is a very challenging multi-disciplined event that tests competitors in a number of different scenarios that could one day save someone’s life,” he added.
“The surf club’s lifesavers had some outstanding individual results with Under 15’s Nate McKinnon and Zara Richardson taking out first, Under 14’s Meliana Craig taking out second and in the Under 13’s Cadence McKinnon finished first with Isabella Grant missing out on second by half a point to finish third,” said Mr Grant.
“The club is extremely proud to see our lifesavers excel at such an important event. This was all thanks to the coaching of Cathy McKinnon who will now lead the team heading into state and national titles for this important lifesaving competition.”
If members of the community are looking at joining the surf club, or give back to the community by becoming a Champion Lifesaver, contact admin@mackayslsc.com.au for details on up-and-coming training courses.
Mackay SLSC Champion Lifesaver Team at Alva Beach, Ayr
First Place Under 15 Champion Lifesavers Nate McKinnon and Zara Richardson
Under 15 Zara Richardson in action during the tube race, placing first out of all competitors
Competitors taking to the water at Alva Beach in the Under 15 surf race
Under 13 Champion Lifesavers Cadence McKinnon and Isabella Grant
Photos supplied
Mackay Tennis Association recently concluded its latest season of fixtures for 2023, rounding out a memorable list of centenary celebrations for the club.
In Division 1, 'Team Federer' emerged as the champions in a closely contested and very competitive fixture season. Congratulations to Troy, Adam, Shane, Lexi, Clem and Bree whose consistency over the season saw them defeat ‘Team Djokovic’ by a solitary point to claim the honours. Meanwhile, 'Wanderers' combined to win the Division 2 championship over runners-up ‘Madhatters’. Congratulations go to teammates Ranjan, Chris, Kunal, Naveen, Alok, Ishan and Hayden on their season win.
As we pause organised fixtures over the school holidays, Mackay Tennis Association welcomes Brett Walz as recently appointed club president. Brett is a long-standing player and committee member, who brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the sport to his role. Walz's vision for the association includes fostering a sense of community, further improvements of club facilities and promoting the continued growth of tennis and pickleball in Mackay.
In addition to tennis fixtures, Mackay Tennis Association is thrilled to offer social pickleball three times per week. This fast-paced and inclusive sport has been gaining popularity, and now players can enjoy a regular hit of pickleball on our six pickleball courts. Whether you're a seasoned pickleball pro or a curious newcomer, these fixtures provide a fantastic opportunity to experience the thrill of this new game.
For registration and inquiries, aspiring players are encouraged to reach out to the club. For more information, please email mackaytennis@hotmail.com or contact Sue on 0435 524 985. Here's to the next century of tennis and pickleball in Mackay!
Contributed by Wes Rose
Division 2 winners ‘Wanderers’
Division 1 winners ‘Federer’
The Mackay Contract Bridge Club held its annual Christmas Party last Saturday. A delicious meal was catered by our own Janelle Conroy and her many helpers, with everyone enjoying the meats, salads, desserts and morning tea. Bridge was played by 63 members and partners, with merriment and fun had by all. Director Geoff Taylor made the Christmas Pudding and Christmas Cake, not only a Congress Director, teacher and mentor to many, a man of many talents. Raffle winners went home with a selection of goodies, donated by members. Merry Christmas to all!
Weekly Results
Monday 4 December 2023 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st Monica Darley / Nancy Martin 1st Victor Mason / Antonia Tarradas
2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris 2nd Lorna Shuttlewood / Faye Wright
3rd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix 3rd Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
Tuesday Evening 5 December 2023 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st Nancy Wix / Janine Rodgers 1st Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan
3rd Janelle Conroy / Eric Lievesley 4th Faye Wright / Diane Cox
Wednesday 6 December 2023 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 1st Debra Goodchild/ Ming Ting
2nd Joy Brunette / Don Poole 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd David Ting / Eric Goodchild 3rd Monica Darley / Kath Poole
Thursday 7 December
1st Janelle Conroy / Janine Rodgers 2nd Jan Harris / Susan Ross
3rd Richard Wix / Geoff Taylor 4th Mick King / Patricia Garner
Friday 8 December 2023 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor 1st Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
2nd Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 2nd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole 3rd Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
Saturday 9 December 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S Section A
E/W
1st Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless 1st Julie O’Neill / Terrence Sheedy
2nd Errol Morris / Sandra Morris 2nd Ann Whitmore / Patricia Garner
3rd Eric Leivesley / Griff Bancroft 3rd Vicki Howard / Susan Ross
N/S
Section B
E/W
1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan 1st Frances Brown / Alan Brown
2nd Ming Ting / David Ting 2nd Lorna Shuttlewood / Julie O’Neill
3rd Pamela Finger / Noel Bugeia 3rd Christine Nice / Faye Wright
Contributed by Joy Block
Janelle Conroy, Robert, Julie and Terry
Geoff Taylor and his Christmas pudding
Janice, Cheryl and Clare enjoying a game
Janet Hansen and friends partaking in lunch
Proserpine Cricket Club have extended their winning streak in the 2023-24 Mackay Junior Cricket Association Under 15 Mixed Division A competition.
The all-conquering Pitbulls had too many big guns for the combined Pioneer Valley/Norths X1 at Abbott Park – chalking up a ninth consecutive victory to push their claims for the title.
Promising all-rounder Joshua Geisler top scored with 40 as Proserpine posted 6-174 off their 25 overs with support from Malaki Gabey (32 not out), Lachlan Riley (20), Ky Porter (18) and Matthew Logan (16 not out).
Geisler, who faced 31 balls and cracked five boundaries, joined forces with Gabey to add 73 runs for the sixth wicket after the undefeated leaders were struggling at 5-79 at one stage.
Kai McLoughlin (2-1 off three overs), Gabey (2-10 off three), Jordan Lawn (1-2), Riley (1-6) and Max Pomeroy (1-9) shared the bowling spoils after restricting Pioneer Valley/Norths to 9-108.
The second placed Magpies registered their fifth win of the season after toppling Brothers at Roy Trevaskis Oval.
Rising prospect Ishan Rana carved out a stylish 38 not out as the Magpies recorded 4-150 – slamming four boundaries and two sixes during his 28-ball knock.
Other batsmen to impress were Rohan Cherian (41 off 44 balls with eight boundaries) and Brayden Manttan (25), who shared an opening stand of 64 before they were both stumped off the bowling of Brothers’ talented spinner Finn Randell (2-16 off five overs).
Cooper Boyce hit 16 and Brodie Garnham (14 not out).
In reply, Brothers could only muster 6-112 with top contributions from Callum Strydom (25), Lachlan Ipson (24) and Llandyn Dargin (14 not out).
Cherian (2-20 off four) was the pick of the Magpies bowlers.
Sarina's recent Twin Track Event on November 25 didn't just mark a milestone; it drenched itself in the gritty excitement of mud racing, celebrating an impressive 35 years of adrenaline-pumping competitions. The day was a whirlwind of mud-splattering action that showcased not just the sport's thrills but also the tight-knit spirit of this vibrant club.
Competitors, members, and Life Members converged from far and wide, all coming together to create an electrifying atmosphere that encapsulated the essence of mud racing. But the real heroes behind this muddy spectacle were the numerous contributors - sponsors, track personnel, canteen staff, scorers, volunteers, and an array of support personnel. Their collective effort fuelled the day's success, ensuring every revving engine added to the excitement.
From distant areas like Jericho, Barcaldine, and Boomi, participants like the Pearce family and Peter Vukovich with his two sons made impressive journeys to join in the mud-flicking mayhem. The event's highlight, apart from celebrating its significant anniversary, was the high-octane races across four classes: Junior (10–16-year-olds), Standards, Buggies, and Top Guns. Each race was a spectacular display of mud-churning prowess, embodying the sport's raw energy and competitive spirit.
As cars skidded and splashed through the tracks, the day unfolded as a tribute to the heart-pounding thrill that is mud racing. It was more than just a competition; it was a celebration of the sport's legacy, an ode to the camaraderie among racers, and a testament to the enduring appeal of getting down and dirty for the love of the sport.
Mahe Fonua, the formidable outside-back with a knack for making tries look effortless, is now set to grace the turf with the Mackay Cutters. His move from Castleford Tigers to the Cutters, inked on a two-year contract starting from the 2024 season, marks an exciting new chapter for the former Tonga international.
Described as a powerhouse on the field, Fonua made his debut with the Melbourne Storm back in 2012, showcasing an arsenal of skills that contributed to his impressive stats—a total of 71 NRL games and 131 Super League appearances, not to mention his stellar representation in six international matches for Tonga.
Besides his electrifying playing style, the Cutters are banking on Fonua’s experience and leadership to mentor their youthful squad, sculpting the team for a prosperous future.
Fonua's rugby league odyssey encompasses two memorable stints with the Black & Whites at the MKM Stadium, where he etched his name in Challenge Cup glory. Returning home to Australia with Wests Tigers, Fonua showcased his prowess in 21 gripping games, notching up six tries. His return to the Super League with Hull in 2020, under the guidance of coach Lee Radford, added another chapter to his illustrious career.
A Tonga international born on December 24, 1992, Fonua's resume boasts a thrilling ride through NRL with Melbourne Storm and Wests Tigers, along with standout spells in Hull FC in the Super League. Making history in 2012 as the first Victorian-born NRL player for Melbourne Storm, Fonua's arrival in Mackay is greeted with great fanfare by the Cutters faithful.
The Cutters' triumph in signing Fonua for the Hostplus Cup 2024 campaign solidifies their aspirations. Fonua's prowess on the field and his accolades—clinching consecutive Challenge Cups with Hull FC—elevate him as a seasoned leader. With a wealth of experience gleaned from his notable tenure in both the NRL and Super League, he stands tall as an influential figure for the Cutters' roster, steering them towards a promising future for the 2024 season.
One of Mackay Table Tennis’s most popular and keenest members, Noreen Fredericksen, took out two major awards at the club’s annual presentation night. Noreen won the MTTA Player of the Year Award and the Clubperson of the Year Award, which is voted for by members. Noreen plays both morning and night fixtures and is a keen representative player. Noreen, left, is pictured with club president Janice Kent.
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixture results November 28, 2023:
Division 1:
Foxtrot (Tim Shehan, Geoff Denman, Tony Bowman) d Delta (Ian McKay, Barry Patterson, Lee Brake) 9-2. Geoff d Ian -9, 9, 21, -8, 9.
Bravo (Ivan Perkins, Emma Widdup, Goncalo) d Echo (Steven Whiting, Graham Brake, Mark Sleeman) 6-5. Emma d Steven -0, 5, 6, -9, 6.
Alpha (Allan Edwards, Mick Ruhl, Janice Kent) d Charlie (Anne Sheridan, Neil Brown, Graeme Walker) 8-3. Allan d Graeme 3, -12, -8, 3, 9.
Division 2:
Mike (Steve Mathieson, Matthew West, Val Austin, Kade Wright) d Juliet (Graham Drury, Peter Goodson, Noreen Fredericksen, Nehmat Dhaliwal) 11-3. Steve d Peter 9, -4, -5, 9, 9.
Lima (Donna Abbott, Geoff Cowan, Ollie Hamelink, YiLin Jiang) d India (Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton, Rymer Tabulo, Michael Ibbotson) 9-5. Rymer d YiLin -8, 4, 5, -7, 6.
Hotel (Leo Gilbert, Simon Hogan, Anaya Reelh) d Kilo (Tiffany Camilleri, Duncan Sheridan, Craig VanDeKaa) 12-2. Anaya d Craig 9, 8, -6, -10, 7.
Golf (George Camilleri, David Symons, Jye Callander, Saisha Palod) d November (Andrea Nicholson, Will VanDeKaa, Mark Stam, Misha Palod) 9-5. David d Andrea 5, -8, 3, -7, 10.
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures November 28, 2023:
Division 1:
Barra (Steve Mathieson, Delma Knight, Helen Ware) d Bream (Doug Dungavell, Pam Joyce, Kim Daffy) 8-4. Delma d Doug 10, -9, -9, 9, 7.
Cod (George Camilleri, Coral Morgan, Kevin Abbott) d Tuna (Tony Bowman, John McGee, Ken Best) 7-5. John d Coral -8, -7, 14, 5, 9.
Perch (Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Judi Hicks) d Trout (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Fredericksen, Bryan Marshall) 7-5. Charlie d Branko -7, 9, 9, -8, 8.
Division 2:
Lobster (Marie Taylor, Ian Dodds) d Scallop (Gerry Synnott, Steve Blackshaw) 7-2. Marie/Ian d Gerry/Steve 6, 6, -8, -8, 11.
Prawn (Robyn Bushell, Pam Keune, Cheryl Aprato) d Squid (Cheryl Pearson, Sharon Muller, Thelma Caruana) 10-2. Robyn d Cheryl -9, 4, -8, 6, 6.
Crab (John Hamelink, Madge Saunders, Bill Hey) d Mussell (Marie Taylor, Fred Saliba, Allison Day) 9-3. Fred d John 6, -8, 6, -8, 7.
Noreen Fredericksen and Janice Kent
Extreme humidity and stifling conditions met close to thirty avid runners at the sixth event on the Mackay Road Runners Shawn’s Summer Social Series 2023/2024 program. Club Captain and Race Director, Jim Ford congratulated the runners on their amazing efforts to get through their respective events due to the tough on course conditions.
Junior champion female athlete, Lily Leven courageously led from the start in the 5 kilometre and impressively hung on to place first overall, despite some concern over her sometimes challenged directional fortitude.
Damian Rutland finished first in the male 5 kilometre, sensibly ramping up his pace as he returns from an injury.
Darrin Pullen, Jo Hughes, Leanne Connor and Kim Saron also displayed skill in the 5 kilometre performances. Leading female runner Alana Knesevic continued her excellent form to place first in the 10 kilometre, with the talented Naomi Ballard closing in fast at the finish line. The outing was tough for all concerned, including new runners and experienced runners alike.
This Sunday’s event commences at 5:15pm from the Mackay Harbour Surf Club carpark, with attendees asked to arrive at 5pm for a race briefing and any Mackay Road Runners Club notices.
Check out the Mackay Road Runners website for the upcoming formal 2024 calendar and Annual General Meeting. Merchandise is also currently available to order, with discounts on most items pending arrival of new stock for the coming year.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse
Mackay Road Runners Life Member Agnes Farmer enjoys the comforts of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series thanks to Len Haworth’s considerate gesture
Damien Rutland cruised a very steady 5km pace in the extreme conditions
Staunch Mackay Road Runner’s athlete Naomi Ballard will be a regular face on the local running scene as her family move back to Mackay
Photo credit: Janelle Tilse
Magpies White have thrown down the gauntlet to premiership pacesetters Walkerston Roosters in the Mackay Junior Cricket Association Under 17 series.
The second placed Magpies remain in the title mix after skittling Pioneer Valley in a low scoring one day tussle last Saturday at Jack Lancaster Oval in Harrup Park.
On a morning where the ball dominated the bat the Magpies chalked up 8-102 from their 25 overs with gritty knocks by
Robert Hatherly (30 runs off 48 balls) and an unbeaten 21 from Rory Franklin.
Spearheading the Valley attack was paceman Darcy Sanderson who grabbed the impressive figures of 3-9 off his four overs with support from Hayden Morrow (2-11), Ben Valmadre (2-11) and Jacob Williams (1-19).
In reply, the Valley could only muster 8-74 with Zac Miles top-scoring with a stylish 39 from 36 balls that included three boundaries and two sixes.
Magpies bowling trump Thomas Rourke shone with the ball – snaring 3-19 off four overs with all-rounder and first grade rookie George Fortescue grabbing 2-8.
In Under 15A Division action, competition leaders Proserpine preserved their unbeaten record with a resounding victory over Magpies White at Roy Trevaskis Oval.
Sent in to bat, the Proserpine Mixed team posted 5-145 from their 25 overs with solid contributions from opener Matthew Logan (36), Ky Porter (25) and Donovan Pettiford (23).
Zac Pace was the pick of the Magpies bowlers with figures of 2-23 off four overs.
The Magpies struggled in their run chase and were bundled out for 87 despite a classy 34 from Mackay-Whitsunday junior representative ace Ishan Rana that included five boundaries.
Logan (2-1), Malaki Gabey (2-8), Karl Ward (2-11) and Kai McLoughlin (2-19) shared the bowling spoils for Proserpine.
A gratifying increase in numbers this year has introduced a wonderful group of new players. The Supervised Play break-up was held last week, with Geoff Taylor mentoring new players, Frances Brown supporting new players and Helen Van Den Broek supervising play.
The club celebrates the efforts of mentors and volunteers who give their time to the Supervised Play session each week, including Geoff Taylor, Frances Brown, Helen Van Den Broek, Anne Lutz and Terry Sheedy.
Tuesday Evening 28 November 2023 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st - Mick Robins / Diane Cox
2nd - Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
3rd - Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
E/W
1st - Terrence Sheedy / Helen Van Den Breok
2nd - Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
3rd - Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan
Wednesday 29 November 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st - Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
2nd - Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
3rd - David Ting / Eric Goodchild
E/W
1st - Terrence Sheedy / Eric Leivesley
2nd - Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
3rd - Monica Darley / Kath Poole
Friday 1 December 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st - Diane Holewa / Max Holewa
2nd - Christine Nice / Diane Cox
3rd - Helen Van Den Broek / Don Poole
E/W
1st - Alan Brown / Frances Brown
2nd - Victor Mason / Josie Cowley
3rd - Lorna Shuttlewood / Debra Goodchild
Saturday 2 December 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st - Ann Whitmore / Sandra Morris
2nd - Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
3rd - Antonia Tarradas / Christine Nice
E/W
1st - Julie O’Neill / Margaret Lane
2nd - Monica Darley /Kath Poole
3rd - Frances Brown / Alan Brown
Frances Brown supporting new players
Helen Van Den Broek supervising play
A whopping 48 Pioneer Swimmers competed at the 50th Great Barrier Reef LC Transition Meet held at the Mackay Aquatic Centre on 18th and 19th November. The team was mighty - being the largest team in presence - pumped for the weekend of racing!
The Meet was hosted by the Mackay Swimming Academy and this was their 50th anniversary event.
To celebrate such a momentous milestone, the medals were extra special this year with the lanyards featuring the Great Barrier Reef Ocean and sea wildlife. They were absolutely stunning and greatly celebrated by the Dolphins. Pioneer Swimming Club congratulate MSA on such a successful meet and weekend.
The personal bests and podium placings obtained by Pioneer Swimmers were fantastic. Well done to all the swimmers for your individual and team successes!
Contributed by Pioneer Swimming Club
Photos supplied: Pioneer Swimming Club
The PSC team was strong on the weekend with many Dolphins seen in the same heats
Pioneer Swimming Club continues to grow in numbers
Pioneer Captain, Zahli Herring
Kailu Bellear
Junior Dolphin, Xavier Saxby
Junior Dolphin, Demi McBain
Ekaterina Lee
Cheeky, Marley Smith, shooting a smile to the photographer mid race
The Marian Ladies Bowling Club concluded its year of spirited competition with a flourish, celebrating champions across various categories.
With tremendous teamwork, the quartet consisting of Laurel Morrow, Lyn Jackson, Judith Miller, and Doris Fry emerged victorious in the 4's category.
Meanwhile, the Triples title was clinched by the formidable team comprising Gwen Harberger, Joan Vickers, and Fay Erickson, demonstrating their stellar coordination and strategic play.
The Pairs category witnessed a thrilling display as Judith Miller and Lyn Jackson triumphed, while the Singles category saw Helen Pietzner securing the top spot, with Lyn Jackson as the runner-up.
Fours winners: Laurel Morrow, Lyn Jackson, Judith Miller, Doris Fry
Triples winners: Gwen Harberger, Joan Vickers, Fay Erickson
Pairs winners: Judith Miller and Lyn Jackson
Singles: winner Helen Pietzner with runner up Lyn Jackson
The recent Athletics North Queensland Awards saw 16-year-old Toby Rule win the prestigious Junior Athlete of the Year Award for his achievements in middle-distance running.
Toby's accomplishments from October 2022 to October 2023 were highlighted during the recognition process. This included accolades from school-related track-and-field and cross country competitions, as well as his contributions to the Queensland Athletics team in national cross country events.
Toby secured his first national silver medal in the 3000m event in December 2022, achieving a remarkable 30-second personal best.
Additionally, he triumphed at the Cross Country Nationals in Canberra in August, where he earned himself a bronze medal.
On December 7th, Toby will be accompanied by his family in his journey to Perth to participate in the all schools national track-and-field event. He will compete in the 1500m, 3000m, and the steeplechase.
Toby's family, including his brother Oliver, and parents Belinda and Jason, share a deep enthusiasm for running, turning it into a shared family pursuit.
Despite his success, Toby faces the ongoing challenge of balancing academic responsibilities, maintaining relationships with peers and family, and avoiding injury and sickness. His mother Belinda Rule humorously mentioned, "If he sees someone sneezing, he’ll cross the street!"
Toby approaches each competition with a level of dedication that is uncommonly seen in most 16-year-olds, understanding the importance of his performance in achieving his goals.
Belinda remarked on his significant progress over the past year, stating, “He knows what he needs to achieve to try and get into the top three, he's really hit his stride in the last 18 months.”
Toby has determination to secure a spot in the Junior World Champs in the next 18 to 24 months. His family is also exploring the requirements for overseas cross country competitions, with an eye on Nam Suva in June 2024.
Toby Rule proudly takes the win for the Junior Athlete of the Year Award
Toby Rule alongside his supporters at the Athletics North Queensland Awards 2023
Photo credit: Mackay Athletics Club
Vintage performances from wily left arm paceman Adam Knezevic and schoolboy prodigy Etienne Pretorius helped Walkerston maintain its winning streak in the Mackay Cricket Association Poole Cup first grade competition last weekend.
Knezevic, the Head Coach of Mackay-Whitsunday Representative Cricket, and spinning all rounder Pretorious bagged four wickets each in their team’s seven run victory over the Magpies at the Magpies Sports Ground.
It was an impressive haul by the Walkerston trump cards after the Roosters had earlier posted a total of 173 when invited to bat first. Knezevic snared 4-17 off a tidy eight over spell while Pretorius grabbed 4-26 off six overs after the premiers were cruising at 2-117 at one stage.
Magpies skipper Ben Zurvas played a valuable hand – registering a gritty 57 runs off 108 balls before he was caught behind by Roosters keeper Russell Deguara off the bowling of Knezevic.
The teak-tough Zurvas received support from number three Rhys McBride, who hit 34 off 44 balls, with the pair adding 57 runs for the second wicket. Deguara capped a fine match behind the stumps with three stumpings and a catch.
Luke Jackson top scored for the Roosters with a superb 77 off 89 balls that included three sixes and seven boundaries while Jakob Frerichs clouted 31 and Chris Mceldowney (21).
Magpies seamer Conor Bryant shone with the ball – snaring the excellent figures of 4-10 from his seven overs that included the prize wicket of young gun Pretorius for a first ball duck. Other Magpies bowlers to impress were Andrew Borg (3-28 off seven) and Todd Dixon (2-45 off eight).
Brothers siblings Michael and Chris Dunn performed strongly with bat and ball in a three wicket loss to second placed Souths at Great Barrier Reef Arena.
Padding up for his first match of the summer, Michael top scored with a stylish 46 off 51 balls that featured five boundaries and a six with younger brother Chris cracking 38 off 32 balls that included two sixes and five boundaries. Both made an impact with the ball with Chris grabbing 3-29 off seven and Michael (1-5 off three) along with quick Floris Duvenhage (2-41 off eight).
But it was to no avail as Souths (7-161) eclipsed the Brothers X1 (158) following classy contributions from Shaun Austin (58), Cameron Keene (38 not out) and Muhammad Wahab (23).
In the bowling stakes Souths were best served by Michael Dawes (3-26 off seven), Harrison Holmes (3-44 off eight) and Tom Bugeja (2-28 off six).
In the rugged terrain of Australia's off-road racing circuit, where dust clouds billow and engines roar like the outback's untamed echoes, Mackay's own James Mogford blazed through the wild tracks like a modern-day bushranger.
In an adrenaline-fueled adventure across untamed terrains, Mogford finished in second place in his maiden season of the Polaris Motorsport Australia Off Road Championship series.
It was an outstanding 2023 season for the Moggy’s Racing team, finishing in 2nd place in the SXS Championship as well as 2nd in Class 6 for Australia.
The team, which includes Mogford’s brother Michael Mogford as navigator and Perry Hunn as navigator/pit crew, also defended its Class 6 QLD Enduro title to be named Qld Long Course Class 6 Champions at the AORRA QLD Presentation Dinner last month.
Mogford, who is the director of the Paget-based Moggy’s Group, had one of the more memorable Australian offroad racing campaigns in recent history. The team competed in nine events in 2023—including Australia’s premiere offroad event, the Finke Desert Race—and finished on the podium in seven of those events. They were in fourth place entering into the year’s final event, the Kalgoorlie Desert Race, in October.
Despite an early set-back due to an electrical issue at Kalgoorlie, Mogford surged forward to finish in 17th place outright and 2nd place in the SXS contingent. This gave the team enough points to secure 2nd place for the series.
Mogford said he could not be happier with the result and looked forward to competing in the Australian series again in 2024.
“Defending the Class 6 QLD Enduro title was a big goal of ours but to also finish second in the Australian SXS championship was amazing. It is our highest honour so far,” he said.
“I am extremely proud of the team. It was a huge commitment with more than 500 hours of prep work and 32,000km of driving. It was a great year.”
James Mogford. Photo credit: Rebecca Galton
Racing in Kalgoorlie. Photo credit: Dakar press team
Photo credit: Terry Hill Photography
Seventeen-year-old James Galea has taken home the Athletics North Queensland Junior Official of the Year Award for the third time, with a consistent contribution to officiating in North Queensland events.
James is a field specialist concentrating on throws, officiating events including discus, shot put, javelin, hammer throws and weight throws. His accomplishments dating back from October 2022 to October 2023 were highlighted during the award qualification process.
Recently, James was promoted to Field Chief for the recent championship, which is an amazing feat to accomplish at his age. James’ mother Kym Madden stated, “Being a younger official, and having almost to supervise people who are older than him becomes a bit of a challenge with the respect in age difference at times.
“I am extremely proud as a Mum of a seventeen-year-old boy, that he has been recognised for the work that he does and the contributions he makes to our community.”
James is passionate about the technological advancements that are developing and improving the accuracy in his field, using remote controlled buggies and electronic measurement systems to improve the precision of competition results.
James is on the autism spectrum, allowing him a special ability to ‘see things in black and white’. Kym stated, “Because of that, [it] has enabled him to make quick decisions and to be very clear in his decision making. He knows what the rule is, and he's able to apply that.”
James is looking forward to the Brisbane 2032 Olympics, where he is eager to compete as an athlete, however he would be happy to represent as an official as well.
James Galea is awarded the Junior Official of the Year Award for 2023
This is the third time James has won the Athletics North Queensland Award
Photo credit: Mackay Athletics Club
The Airlie Beach Bridge congress was held on 25th and 26th November, with seventeen Mackay Contract Bridge players competing in three different grades with much success.
A Category was won by Noel Bugeia and Terrence Sheedy, with Frances and Alan Brown finishing third in A Category.
B Category was won by Noel Saunders and Mary-Rose Ramsden. Faith Hutchinson and Dorethy Slater came third in the C Category.
It was great to see Karen Caldwell and Susan Gibson (first away congress) participating and having a great time.
Monday 20 November 2023 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st Terry Sheedy and Janelle Conroy
2nd Ming Ting and Pamela Finger
E/W
1st Barbara Tait and Margaret Lane
2nd Debra Goodchild and Sandy Patterson
Tuesday Evening 21 November 2023 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st - Janet Hansen and Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd - Janine Rodgers and Nancy Wix
E/W
1st - Janelle Conroy and Eric Lievesly
2nd - Noel Bugeia and Eric Goodchild
Wednesday 22 November 2023 – NWP 22 of 24 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st - David Ting and Eric Goodchild
2nd - Janelle Conroy and Noel Bugeia
3rd - Max Holewa and Diane Holewa
4th - Mary Rose Ramsden and Noel Saunders
E/W
1st - Monica Darley and Kath Poole
2nd - Terrence Sheedy and Eric Leivesley
3rd - Janet Hansen and Alan Brown
4th - Joy Robinson and Robert Carless
Thursday 23 November 2023 – 3 Table One Winner Green Points
1st - Ann Whitmore and Diane Stokes
2nd - Ken Seaniger and Robert Carless
3rd - Janine Rodgers and Janelle Conroy
4th - Mick King and Patricia Garner
Friday 24 November 2023 – 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st - Terry Sheedy and Noel Bugeia
2nd - Diane Holewa and Max Holewa
3rd - Helen Van Den Broek and Don Poole
4th - Joyce Deguara and Tony Large
E/W
1st - Janelle Conroy and Pamela Finger
2nd - Christine Nice and Diane Cox
3rd - Susan Wright and Geoffrey Patterson
4th - Joy Robinson and Geoff Taylor
Saturday 25 November 2023 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S
1st - Julie O’Neill and Margaret Lane
2nd - Debra Goodchild and Eric Goodchild
3rd - Ann Whitmore and Diane Stokes
E/W
1st - Griffin Bancroft and Patricia Garner
2nd - Christine Nice and Faye Wright
3rd - Lorna Shuttlewood and Susan Wright
Best Pair in B - Mary Rose Ramsden and Noel Saunders with Airlie President Neil (centre)
Overall Winners - Tex Sheedy and Noel Bugeia
3rd overall - Alan and Frances Brown
Encouragement Award- Faith Hutchinson and Dorothy Slater
Photos supplied
A batch of promising cheer dancers from Mackay are bound for Hawaii next May to compete at the Global Cheer and Dance Games.
Young performers from the Adrenalin Cheer and Dance school based at North Mackay showed their wares at the recent Cheerbrandz Super Nationals Championships, staged at Brisbane’s Nissan Arena – securing many places and victories across the weekend.
It was the final event of the season for the Mackay club, with the Senior Hip Hop ‘Envy’ team receiving the greatest accolades after clinching all three major awards.
The ‘Envy’ combination were crowned Queensland Division champions and Hip-Hop Grand Champions, taking out the prestigious Super Grand Champions award for Hip Hop. This fact making them the highest scoring team across all three event locations in Queensland, New South Wales and New Zealand.
Comprised of nine gifted senior dancers aged 14 to 17 years, the Envy team wowed the crowd and judges with their fierce and skilful performance, earning themselves a partially-paid bid to represent Australia at the Global Games in Hawaii in May 2024.
"To say the team were thrilled would be an understatement,” reflected Adrenalin Cheer and Dance club owner and Head Coach Kelly Munt.
“There were smiles from ear to ear and plenty of emotion after the event and we couldn't have hoped for a better end to the season.
“The Envy team are the 2022 AASCF National champions for the Senior Hip-Hop division but know with dance teams each season, you start back at the bottom,” Kelly quipped.
“We are proud of how far they have come to end their 2023 season on such a high.” she added.
If having one representative team selected wasn't enough, the Adrenalin club’s Dreamers Senior Level 4 cheer combination also impressed the judges and the crowd - winning their division and being awarded Level 4 runner-up Grand Champions.
The result earned Dreamers a wildcard bid to also represent Australia in their division for the Global Cheer and Dance Games. Dreamers’ 15 senior athletes, many lining up in their first season of Level 4, remain undefeated for the 2023 season.
Head Coach Kelly said the club as a whole was very supportive of not only the two bid-winning teams but each combination, from the first-season athletes up to the experienced All Stars.
“We put on some of our best work of the season at the Super Nationals event and are proud of all the teams, sensational coaches and the parents who make the club our family.” Kelly stated.
Adrenalin club’s Dreamers Senior Level 4 cheer team won their division and finished Level 4 runner-up Grand Champions at the recent Super Nationals Championships.
Contributed By Chris Karas
Adrenalin Cheer and Dance club’s Envy combination took home the prestigious Super Grand Champions award for Hip-Hop at the recent Super Nationals Championships
Adrenalin club’s Dreamers Senior Level 4 cheer team won their division and finished Level 4 runner-up Grand Champions
Photo supplied
Queensland Schoolgirls netball goalkeeper Shaylah Pershouse and Redcliffe Dolphins-bound rugby league forward Sam Anderson are the St Patrick’s College Junior Sportswoman and Sportsman of the Year recipients for 2023.
The talented duo were officially recognised for their superb achievements this season on the netball court and football field and accepted their awards at the College’s annual Sports Assembly.
Defensive dynamo Shaylah capped a stellar season in her chosen sport when she represented Queensland at the SchoolSport Australia 15 years and under National Netball Championships in Perth.
Donning the maroon uniform was a proud moment for the emerging goalkeeper, who helped her team mates achieve a fourth placed ranking behind tournament champions Victoria, NSW and South Australia.
In the lead up to the National Carnival, the outstanding Pershouse turned in skilful performances for St Patrick’s at the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools Netball Championships in Brisbane.
15-year-old Shaylah showed a maturity that far belied her years with inspirational defensive displays throughout the tournament to earn a spot in the 2023 QISSN Carnival Rising Stars Girls Team.
It was a deserved honour for the Mackay DAS product as she and her St Patrick’s team mates held their own against some of the best senior netball schoolgirl outfits in the State.
Shaylah also produced superb performances for the Capricornia representative side at the Queensland School Sport Netball Championships in Brisbane to earn her maiden State honours.
The teak-tough keeper was at her combative best when St Patrick’s won both the Cup (Seniors) and Shield (Junior) categories at the Capricornia Regional Trials at Mackay Multisports Stadium, to qualify for the prestigious Vicki Wilson State Netball Championships in Brisbane.
Sam Anderson is a promising rugby league forward destined for bigger things.
The powerhouse 15-year-old prop – who helped St Patrick’s claim the Queensland Regional Schoolboys championship and Cowboys Challenge trophies in 2023 - has secured his immediate future after signing a two-year contract with the Redcliffe Dolphins.
Anderson proved a tower of strength this season in the schoolboy ranks, earning a Queensland Under 15 representative jumper following stand out performances for Capricornia at the State Secondary School Championships in Townsville.
The emerging forward also impressed for the Queensland White team that reached the semi finals of the Australian Secondary Schools National Under 15 Championships at Port Macquarie.
But it was in the Cowboys Challenge Shield series that strong-running Sam made a huge impact – inspiring the all-conquering St Patrick’s team to a 24-10 Grand Final victory over Ignatius Park College Townsville at the Mackay Junior League Fields with his punishing defence, hard running and skilful ball play.
It was a bitter-sweet experience for the rampaging prop, who damaged his knee early in the match and was forced to watch from the sidelines forlornly as the undefeated champions brought home the trophy.
Anderson missed St Patrick’s triumph over Dolphins Cup champions Emmaus College Rockhampton in the Queensland Regional Grand Final challenge the following week, but played a pivotal role in the championship double with his mentoring and motivational tips.
Sam’s immediate goals for 2024 are to force his way into the St Patrick’s College top grade squad, that will defend its Aaron Payne Cup schoolboy's premiership title under the astute coaching of Ian Schifilliti.
Contributed by Chris Karas
St Patrick’s College 2023 Junior Sports Person of Year Award recipients Sam Anderson and Shaylah Pershouse.
Photo supplied
The National Rifle Association Australia (NRAA) Kings event is over for another year, seeing two members of Mackay District Target Rifle Association (MDTRA) dominate the three-day competition.
Father and daughter duo, Terry and Kylah Norris brought home the wins, with Terry in 1st place and 17-year-old Kylah in 2nd place in the Grand Aggregate and Sport/Hunter Production Class Open categories for the Kings competition.
The Kings competition held twenty-four matches over three days. The power duo put the Norris name in lights, scoring the top rankings by the end stage of the competition.
Day one of the Kings campaign started off slow and steady, dropping a few points compared to their rivals in the competition. Terry acknowledged the stern words of advice they had received that night from other shooters, being told not to give up and to aim for the combined aggregate of the two competitions.
He concerned himself with how he and Kylah could turn things around, going into day two taking both 900m range wins, both scoring a clean 50.9.
They took on the 1000y with tricky conditions. Kylah shot a 48.5 and a 50.4, while Terry shot a 49.4 and a 49.6. At the end of this day, Terry had the day two aggregate win, with Kylah following closely behind in second.
At this stage, Terry was tied in first place overall with Wu Lau, who held the lead for most of the competition, with Kylah in third.
Day three of the Kings competition saw the duo clearing both 1000y matches with clean shots.
Terry commented, “On the last day, both Kylah and I didn’t drop a single shot whereas everybody else dropped one or more”.
“It’s such a hard, long distance to shoot over, lots of wind and different variables there and we kept it all together.
“I loved watching her shoot her last round, I jumped down and gave her a big hug. I knew she’d come second at that point.”
Kylah took both wins for the 1000y events and the day three daily aggregate win. The finishing overall total for Kylah was an impressive 545.71, leaving winner Terry on 546.55.
The duo were both ecstatic with their performances at the Kings event, with Kylah positively baffled that her and Dad had both secured the top spots in a national competition.
Terry and Kylah Norris at the NRAA Kings event
Kylah staying focused on her target
Terry lining up his next shot
Photos supplied
Premiership front runners Brothers and Norths Devils produced an enterprising run fest in a quality Poole Cup first grade showdown in the Mackay Cricket Association competition last weekend.
In a fine exhibition of batting, the Brothers top order featured prominently to help set up a crucial 18-run victory at Harrup Park’s George Gorrie Oval.
Talented opener Wiets Buys led the way with a stylish 63 off 90 balls that included eight boundaries and a six with support from Joseph Hackney (41), skipper Matthew Wicks (39), club stalwart Chris Dunn (37) and 15-year-old young gun Jack Law (33 off 34 balls) as Brothers posted an impressive total of 252.
Buys shared an opening stand of 58 with Wicks before combining with Hackney for a second wicket partnership of 74.
Dunn, a St Patrick’s College Mackay cricket mentor, also demonstrated his vast experience by adding 65 runs for the fourth wicket with schoolboy prodigy Law.
Pacemen Kerrod Tortora (3-62) and Mason Kohler (29) and off spinner Lachlan Brett were the pick of the Devils’ bowlers.
Dashing Norths batsmen Darryn Dyer (59) and Chris Day (43) provided an ideal springboard for their team in reply – blasting an opening stand of 104 to keep the Devils in the hunt.
The flamboyant Dyer faced 33 balls and cracked four sixes and six boundaries while Day carved out five boundaries and two sixes during his 37-ball knock.
Other batsmen to contribute were Jason Butterworth (35 runs off 48 deliveries), all rounder Tortora (23) and the Kohler siblings Mason (21) and Lane (20) as the Devils came perilously close to sinking the competition leaders.
Brothers’ off spinner Cameron Tomerini (3-47), quick Mitch Wadsworth (3-66), the fearless Law (1-19), wily Dunn (1-34) and Floris Duvenhage (1-32) grabbed key wickets in a tense finish.
PIONEER VALLEY continued the Magpies’ woes by recording a thirty run triumph at the Magpies Sports Ground.
The Valley posted 8-149 off their 40 overs with top knocks by Cody Filewood (52) and Lochi Whitehead (48) and an unbeaten 14 from Jade Filewood.
Missing five key players, the Magpies applied plenty of pressure with the ball with 16-year-old rookie quick Myles Cochrane stamping his mark.
In only his second top grade appearance, the Whitsunday Anglican schoolboy snared 3-25 in a lively seven over spell with support from spin twins Isaac Borg (2-23) and Liam Zurvas (2-28).
Turning point was the crucial second wicket partnership of 99 by Valley batsmen Cody Filewood and Whitehead.
Magpies’ premiership-winning skipper Ben Zurvas bounced back to form with a classy 47 and kept his side on track with a vital seventh wicket stand of 44 with Isaac Borg (25) after the home side were reeling at 6-67.
Valley pace ace Bailey Camilleri grabbed 4-18 off eight overs to give the visitors the edge with support from Cody Filewood (2-13), skipper Tim Cridland (2-15) and Harry Kirkwood (2-33).
A SUPERB half century from legendary Walkerston keeper-batsman Sam Vassallo piloted his team to a stunning victory over Souths at Great Barrier Reef Arena.
The Mackay-Whitsunday Open mens representative skipper smashed 72 off 59 balls as Walkerston (5-184) eclipsed Souths (4-183) in a hard-fought tussle.
Vassallo hit seven boundaries and a six during his epic knock and shared a vital second wicket partnership of 84 with St Patrick’s College schoolboy ace Etienne Pretorius (35 runs off 51 balls).
Jakob Frerichs chipped in with an important 23 runs for the Walkerston warriors.
Souths registered a competitive 4-183 with top contributions from Liam Burgess (64), Shaun Austin (35), Muhammed Wahab (33) and Kellen Powell (26 not out).
Burgess clouted nine boundaries and a six in a classic display and shared an opening stand of 72 with Wahab to ignite the Souths innings.
Left arm spinner Pretorius (2-28) and off spinner Jacob Christensen (2-42) spearheaded the Walkerston bowling attack.
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club recently host the 32nd annual North Australian Titles, which saw more than a thousand lifesavers, water safety, carnival officials and spectators descended on Mackay’s beautiful Harbour Beach. The surf conditions at the carnival were very challenging for lifesavers with a 5.8m high tide coupled with a 2-metre swell. The surf was pumping and so were the competitors.
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 the North 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 to the North Aussies, we hope to see you next year!”
The club had some standout achievements placing 6th overall and attaining a 2nd place in the March Past.
“It was very pleasing to see our U11 competitor Harry Madden take out Age Champion, as well as having Zara Richardson, Nate McKinnon, Joe Madden and Cadence McKinnon selected for the Queensland 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. The club is going from strength to strength, and we are now preparing our lifesavers for Branch Titles in a few weeks.”
Mackay SLSC March Past team took out 2nd position.
Under 15 Board Rescue Champions Zara Richardson and Molly Madden
Under 15 Nate McKinnon (2nd from right) at the start of the Ironman before placing 1st
Kody Amos Under 11 taking on the surf at Mackay Harbour Beach
Joe “Jingle Bells” Madden U13 after taking out 2nd place in the board race
Zara Richardson Under 15 at the end of board race in big swells at the Harbour
Under 11 Age Champion Harry Madden coming in 2nd
After spending the last two NBL1 seasons in the ‘Top End’, Jerron Jamerson will make the move back to the ‘Sunshine State’ and a return to McDonald’s Mackay Meteors line-up for 2024.
The 31-year-old is no stranger to the Mackay faithful, having played an NBL1 North season for the Meteors red and black in 2021.
It was a campaign to remember for the star American import. Jamerson finishing the season averaging 19 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists per contest, enroute to helping the Meteors secure the inaugural NBL1 North title, while taking home Grand Final Most Valuable Player honours in the process.
Following the 2021 season, Jamerson journeyed to Darwin to help drive the new Northern Territory based NBL1 franchise. In 40-games as co-captain of the Salties across 2022 and 2023, Jamerson averaged 17 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists, while shooting over 50% from the field and 75% at free throw line.
Hailing from Indiana, Jamerson quickly became a fan favourite in the Crater on the back of his athleticism and talent to finish above the rim. His versatility a big reason why McDonald’s Mackay Meteors Head Coach Joel Khalu chose to bring the 194cm wing back to the Sugar City.
Jerron brings many things to the floor at both ends, and that’s certainly why we see him as a key piece to our puzzle,” Khalu said.
“He can play both multiple positions, taking advantage of smaller players in the low post, while also capitalising on perimeter mismatches versus bigger, slower defenders.”
“He’s also proved that he's a winner and can step up in big games. He plays with tremendous passion and our crowd certainly feeds off his determination.”
“Most importantly though, his aim is to win championships and be a part of our teams’ overall success.”
“I know our fans here in Mackay will be pumped to have Jerron return, not only on the court, but also with the work he does in the community to help grow the game and develop younger hoopers. His commitment in that space is integral to our clubs’ overall culture.”
Jamerson was also thrilled about a Mackay NBL1 sequel.
“I couldn’t be more excited to be coming back to the Mack and suiting up in front of the great Mackay fans,” Jamerson said.
“Being able to play for Joel again, and getting back out there with the boys, were both huge parts in my decision to come back.”
“We all have the same goal in mind, and that’s bringing the championship back to Mackay!”
Jamerson will relocate to Mackay early next year to commence pre-season training with the Meteors.
Jerron Jamerson
The annual North Mackay Sinkers Open Water Swim is held on the first Sunday in November each year. This year’s race, on November 5, dawned with clear skies, zero wind and welcome temperatures in and out of the water.
Some 49 swimmers registered for the annual event, made up of 33 females and 16 males set to compete.
Distances offered in the competition were the 1.25-kilometre, which included an aided swimmer section of flippers and buoys. A 2.5-kilometre distance and the main event, a challenging 5-kilometre swim that includes the King and Queen of the River title. This year the club sponsored new perpetual trophies for the King and Queen events, as well as similar trophies for the 14–18-year section.
With the results in, the North Mackay Sinkers have three new reigning champions in the 5-kilometre event. Welcoming Ben Miles as the open age male winner, and Samantha Sticklan as the open age female winner.
The sole junior swimmer Zara Richardson was successful in the 14–18-year olds’ 5-kilometre event. See the results below, which are line-honour based, not age group based.
5K event
Female Place
1. Zara Richardson (14-18) – 1:25:10
2. Samantha Stricklan – 1:31:04
3. Sarah Shuttlewood – 1:39:16
4. Jody Walker 1:41:25
Male Place
1. Ben Miles – 1:21:52
2. Nigel Dalton – 1:41:10
2.5K Event
Female Place
1. Linda Single – 40:46
2. Karen Chandler - 43:11
3. Megan Taylor - 47:56
Male Place
1. Pierre Craven – 43:58
2. John Barrett – 54:03
3. Murray Wonnocott 57:24
1.25K Event
Female Place
1. Toni Enright – 26:58
2. Lucy Guye – 28:22
3. Rebecca Casanovas – 28:26
Male Place
1. Daniel Stampa – 28:13
2. Davis Nicholas – 28:18
3. Adam Chappell – 31:03
The event was well supported in and out of the water by swimmers, water safety volunteers and numerous club members assisting to deliver a smooth, well-run event.
President of the North Mackay Sinkers Daniel Stampa stated, “It was fantastic to see regular swimmers at this event as well as a brace of new competitors taking on the shorter and longer distances for the first time.”
The 2024 event is tentatively scheduled for November 3 2024 and the picturesque location is a fantastic place for the club to swim and test their skills.
The club is considering a format change for 2024, as well as contemplating delivering another Open Water Swim in a unique location, stay tuned for more details.
Contributed by Daniel Stampa.
Winners of the 5-kilometre event (left to right) Open Female Winner Sam Sticklan, Junior Female Winner Zara Richardson and Open Male Winner Ben Miles
Contestants of the 2.5-kilometre event brace the waters in the Open Water Swim competition. Photos supplied
Mackay will see an influx of visitors between 24th to 26th November with the hosting of the Under 13 Girls and Under 13 Boys Indoor State Hockey Championships.
The Championships present a great opportunity to showcase the state’s incredible hockey talent in a round robin competition and are used as a selection process for the Queensland Indoor Under 13 hockey teams.
Mackay has been well represented over the years at both State and National level, now harnessing the chance to put their talents and sportsmanship on display.
Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson stated, “This event serves as a platform for our budding athletes to sharpen their skills and compete against some of the best hockey players in their division in the state.
“This tournament is more than a competition; it's a crucial stepping stone in the development of our young players, giving them the opportunity to hone their abilities and nurture their passion for the game.
“Good luck to all the players competing to today’s event, we trust this will be a fantastic tournament.
“Council is proud to support this event through our Invest Mackay Events Attraction Fund, which aims to attract visitors, generate positive economic results and foster community pride.”
Mackay Hockey Association President Matt Murphy stated, “On behalf of the Mackay Hockey Association, I would like to welcome Hockey Queensland Officials, competitors, their families, and supporters to the 2023 Hockey Queensland Under 13 State Championships.
“The Mackay Hockey Association executive committee, volunteers and members hope that our hospitality will make this an enjoyable and memorable experience for all involved.”
Event Details
Hockey Queensland U13 Indoor Boys State Championships
24th – 26th November 2023
Pioneer State High School Hall on 221 Bedford Road, Andergrove.
Amidst the clinking of bowls and the camaraderie that defines the Marian Ladies Bowls Club, a recent event echoed a more profound purpose. Their annual Charity Day took centre stage, resonating with compassion and generosity.
This year, the club chose to extend their hands of support to the Trudy Crowley Foundation, an organisation dedicated to supporting those battling a silent beast: ovarian cancer. Two representatives from the foundation attended the event, receiving a cheque from the club and sharing insights into their work within the Mackay district.
In a heartfelt address, the foundation shed light on the ominous nature of ovarian cancer, often lurking undetected until it's too late. "What a great job they do," remarked the ladies from the bowls club.
The Trudy Crowley Foundation, named after a beacon of resilience in the face of ovarian cancer, stands as a bastion of hope and assistance.
Its aim to expose this silent killer, raising awareness and vital funds and its goal is to ensure no woman, child, partner, or friend feels alone in this battle.
Judith Miller, Chris Giannangelo, Rosie Stannard, Katie Moohin, Lyn Jackson
Medically retired North Queensland Cowboys rugby league forward Mitchell Dunn took a trip down memory lane last Friday when he visited his old stamping ground at St Patrick’s College Mackay.
Having bowed out of the NRL as a player due to chronic injuries at the age of 26, the former Mackay Brothers Bulldogs junior has now transitioned into a career in coaching.
Dunn recently commenced a newly created role at the Cowboys as Game Development Coach, with the ex-lock to work with Junior Rugby League coaches throughout North Queensland teaching the coaching practices used at the Cowboys.
St Patrick’s College and the Cowboys enjoy a thriving new partnership.
Dunn - a creative half back for much of his career before switching to the forwards - visited his former school along with Cowboys Head of NRL Elite Pathways Glenn Hall, Elite Pathways coach Steve Sheppard and Strength & Conditioning coach Liam Bartlett.
The Cowboys quartet met up with talented St Patrick’s College centre Norm Campbell and rising forward Declan Grady, who are both contracted to the Cowboys, and top schoolgirl prospects Cianna Faulkner and Keely Logan.
Campbell and Grady starred for the St Patrick’s Year 10 rugby league team that clinched both the Cowboys Challenge Shield and Queensland State Regional Championship titles this year with victories over Ignatius Park College Townsville and Emmaus College Rockhampton.
Dunn has fond memories of his days at St Patrick’s College where he led the school to quarter final appearances in the Confraternity Shield and represented Queensland against NSW in the Under 16 and Under 18 junior Origin series.
St Patrick’s College principal Janelle Agius recalls the gifted five eighth or half back receiving a trophy for Player with Most Potential back in Year 10 as a 15-year-old.
“Mitchell showed a lot of promise as a rugby league junior and student at the College and went on to bigger things,” Mrs Agius reflected.
“He has now gone the full circle and it’s pleasing to know he is putting back into the game as a coaching mentor” she said.
Dunn – who chalked up 58 NRL matches for the Cowboys - also caught up with one of his junior coaches Matthew Paul, the St Patrick’s College Sports Co-ordinator at Mercy Campus.
After graduating from the junior Cutters and Cowboys Academy development pathway systems with Kangaroos forward Reuben Cotter, Dunn skippered the Cowboys’ Under 20 side in 2017 before making his NRL debut the following season.
He played Under 16 Cyril Connell Cup and Under 18 Mal Meninga Cup for the Cutters before moving to Townsville to join the Cowboys and figured in the Townsville Stingers’ Mal Meninga Cup winning side in 2015.
Dunn had two stints with the Cutters in Queensland Cup in 2018-19 and made 13 appearances for the Townsville Blackhawks this season in Hostplus Cup and eight games for the Cowboys before retiring.
He spent his final two playing seasons as a member of the Cowboys Leadership Group and will work closely with Hall and Sheppard and the Cowboys Young Guns squad and Academies programs over the course of the pre-season.
Cowboys General Manager of Football Michael Luck said Dunn was a gifted player with a skillset very few others possess, but his best asset on the field was his footballing brain and his knowledge of the game, which is what he will be able to harness and pass on in this role.
Four of St Patrick’s Aaron Payne Cup-winning first grade side that finished State Championship runners up this year – Queensland Schoolboys half back Jaxon Purdue and hooker Xavier Kerrisk as well as lock forward Kayne Smith and utility back Will Shears – will join the Cowboys in 2024.
By Chris Karas
North Queensland Cowboys enjoy a thriving partnership with St Patrick’s College Mackay. Pictured during last Friday’s visit are College Sports Co-ordinator Mercy Campus Matthew Paul, Cowboys’ Elite Pathways coach Steve Sheppard, Game Development Coach and former St Patrick’s student Mitchell Dunn, Head of NRL Elite Pathways Glenn Hall, Strength & Conditioning coach Liam Bartlett, St Patrick’s College Principal Janelle Agius, St Patrick’s contracted Cowboys Declan Grady and Norm Campbell plus emerging schoolgirl rugby league prospects Cianna Faulkner and Keeley Logan
Cowboys’ Elite Pathways coach Steve Sheppard and Game Development Coach Mitchell Dunn with St Patrick’s College contracted Cowboys Declan Grady and Norm Campbell
The ‘Del Ryan’ Central Queensland Memorial Teams event has been played in Mackay. Sixteen teams competed with visitors from Cairns, Rockhampton, Yeppoon, and Brisbane. Local Team Martin, Nancy Martin, Geoff Taylor, Ken Seaniger and Marilin Robins came second overall. Best Team in Section B Team Chruickshank, Ian Cruickshank Debra & Eric Goodchild and David Ting. Best Team in Section C Team Lynch, Noel Saunders, Annie Lynch, Sandra Morris and Ted Cullinan. Proud president Noel Bugeia picture with all winners.
Weekly Results
Monday 13 November 2023 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild 1st Alexander Long / Tony Lusk
2nd Terry Sheedy / Janelle Conroy 2nd Helen Van Den Broek / Jan Harris
3rd Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson 3rd Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
Tuesday Evening 14 November 2023 – 6 Table One Winner Mitchell Green Points
1st Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild 2nd Janet Hansen / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd Janelle Conroy / Eric Lievesly 4th Lynne O’Neill / Susan Ross
4th Helen Van Den Breok / Terrence Sheedy
Wednesday 15 November 2023 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Joy Robinson / Robert Carless 1st David Ting / Eric Goodchild
2nd Joyce Deguara / Griffin Bancroft 2nd Janet Hansen / Alan Brown
3rd Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia 3rd Sandra Morris / Jan Harris
4th Joy Brunette / Don Poole 4th Terrence Sheedy / Eric Leivesley
Friday 17 November 2023 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Monica Darley / Gwen Liddell 1st Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
2nd Diane Holewa / Max Holewa 2nd Victor Mason / Josie Crowley
3rd David Ting / Ming Ting 3rd Nancy Martin / Kath Poole
4th Terry Sheedy / Noel Bugeia 4th Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
Saturday 18 November 2023 – 7 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S E/W
1st Robert Carless / Janelle Conroy 1st Janet Hansen / Diane Morgan
2nd Joy Robinson / Ken Seaniger 2nd Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill
3rd Susan Wright / Lorna Shuttlewood 3rd Mick King / Jan Harris
Team Martin 2nd Overall
Team Cruickshank B Winners
Team Lynch C winners
October has been an eventful month for Mackay’s Picklers, with 9th October kicking off their first session at the McDonald’s Mackay Multi Sports Stadium.
The team had determined that due to their successful engagements with PCYC, it was time to extend the opportunity and showcase the exciting game of Pickleball to Mackay’s South community.
Mackay Indoor Pickleball is excited to have secured a spot at the Multi Sports Stadium, with Monday morning sessions running every week from 9:30am to 11:30am.
For a small sum of $8, you can enjoy the two hours of fun at the stadium on 107 Juliet Street, South Mackay. Beginners are always welcome and all the gear is supplied for games.
Those interested are welcomed to come along and “have a look”, however the team encourages wearing or bringing along some closed-in shoes. From their experience, most new people can’t resist having a go on their initial visit, and the rest is history!
Tuesday the 10th October was the World Pickleball Day Celebrations. Mackay Indoor Pickleball (MIP) took part by showing off their most yellow displays, taking on the theme for the competition.
MIP took third place overall, a truly astounding performance! A great achievement for the ‘small-town club’, to compete against 30 pickleball clubs and celebrate with much larger local communities and the world.
MIP are proud of their efforts and are excited to gain exposure for the team. The winners across the Australian competition were: Pickleball Townsville in first, Toongabbie Picklers in second, followed by Mackay Indoor Pickleball in third place overall.
Some of the MIP players entered the first Pickleball Tournament to be held in the region, organised by Pickleball Mackay and held on the 28th and 29th October at Kippen Street Tennis Courts.
MIP players Lucy Brown, Toni Latter, Shaun Connolly, Melissa Flower, Paul Bruinewoud, Chris Barbour, Grahame Scott, Heather Hayes and Jenny Wheeldon all took part in the competition and won between them three gold, three silver and seven bronze medals in their chosen categories.
Congratulations to all the competitors who took part, doing Mackay Indoor Pickleball and Pickleball Mackay proud.
It excites the team to see how quickly Pickleball has grown in the past five years, since it hit our region’s shores. The biggest Indoor Pickleball Tournament in the southern hemisphere was held in Brisbane at Morayfield Sports and Events Centre in June.
With more than 530 entrants, featuring international champions who travelled with their families to combine with national champions and local players of all ages for the four-day Queensland Championships.
It was the second successive year that Morton Bay Regional Council and the Pickleball Association of Queensland combined to stage the tournament. In comparison, twelve months ago at the same venue, 350 players entered - which was a record at the time.
It goes without saying, the team at Mackay Indoor Pickleball are excited to be part of this amazing new sport and have a grand plan to put Mackay on the map as the pickleball hub of regional Queensland. So join Mackay Indoor Pickleball Club to become a part of the growth, as well as having some fun!
Weekly games are at PCYC Mackay (33 Norris Road, North Mackay) and include Tuesday nights from 5:30pm to 7:30pm, Thursdays from 12pm to 2pm and Sundays 9am to 11am.
With weekly Monday games at their new location, McDonald’s Mackay Multi Sports Stadium (107 Juliet Street, South Mackay) from 9:30am to 11:30am.
Contributed by Michelle Sheehan
Women’s Doubles
The Picklers at McDonalds Mackay Multi Sports Stadium
Women's Pickleball Group
Men's Doubles
Men's Doubles
Winners of World Pickleball Day
Photos supplied
Close to thirty avid runners descended on the Netball Courts on Casey Avenue for the latest leg of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series, hosted by the Mackay Road Runners Club. The runners embarked on a scenic 5km to 10km journey through East Mackay, navigating the twists and turns of the route.
Despite an initial challenge posed by a headwind, runners persevered and soon found themselves propelled forward by a welcome tailwind.
Returning to the Mackay running scene were Glenn and Karen Baker, seasoned Mackay Road Runners Members currently in town for a brief period. The Evetts family, a standout ensemble, showcased their running prowess with four children in two running prams, leaving an unforgettable mark on the route toward the Ocean International and back.
The post-run atmosphere was festive as runners crossed the finish line, welcomed by the tradition of icy cold frozen zooper doopers. Individual highlights included Paul Mackenzie's unwavering pace, undeterred by an earlier hill training session, and Shane Barben's dedicated accumulation of kilometres in preparation for an upcoming fitness event.
The excitement continues with the next instalment of the Shawn’s Summer Social Series, offering both 5km and 10km options. Scheduled for this Sunday at 5:15 pm, the run will commence from Iluka Park, Binnington Esplanade, Town Beach. As runners gather, the pre-run buzz will include a course briefing by Jim Ford, also the Club Captain and Race Director, setting the stage for an evening of camaraderie and achievement.
As we look ahead to the 2024 season, early registration is already open for the Mackay Road Runners Club. Secure your spot now for a head start when the formal season kicks off in February, ensuring you're part of the action for what promises to be an exhilarating and rewarding year of running in Mackay.
Contributed by Janelle Tilse.
Jo Hughes (right) welcomes ex Mackay Road Runners Club Members, Glenn and Karen Baker for a 3-week secret training camp in Mackay
(Left to right) Mel Esau, Judy Zahn, Jose Wright, Glenys Forse, and Riley Matsen
Alana Knezevic with daughter, Vivian ready to run
Brisbane Heat cricket team are entrenched in the Women’s Big Bash League top four after rolling Adelaide Strikers in a classic contest at Mackay’s Harrup Park last weekend.
A match-winning half century from South African ace Mignon du Preez helped the Heat snap the third placed Strikers four match winning streak with the star recruit cracking a superb 60 off 49 balls.
The talented du Preez smashed seven boundaries and figured in valuable partnerships of 48 for the fourth wicket with 20-year-old Charli Knott (21) and a crucial fifth wicket union of 23 with skipper Jess Jonassen (15) as the Brisbane side (6-139) eclipsed the Adelaide tally of 4-137 with one ball to spare.
It was a fine knock by the South African who controlled her team’s run chase with power-laden shots off the Strikers’ spinners before she was caught and bowled by Amanda-Jade Wellington in the 17th over.
After the early loss of Georgia Redmayne (run out for 9), the dashing Grace Harris (10) and Kiwi Amelia Kerr (3), du Preez put the Heat back on track with her belligerent batting.
English recruit Bess Heath brought up the winning runs for Brisbane with an edge to the boundary in the final over.
The result left the Strikers one point behind competition leaders Sydney Thunder (13) and level with second-ranked Perth and fourth-placed Heat.
Adelaide were reeling at 3-31 after seven overs, before Madeline Penna posted an unbeaten 57 from 46 balls.
Danielle Gibson also thumped 34 not out from 17 balls to help lift the Strikers to a competitive total.
Knott (2-15 off three) and Kerr (2-22 off four) were the pick of the Heat bowlers while Australian quick Megan Schutt (2-29 off four) spearheaded the Strikers’ attack.
Photo credit: Brisbane Heat and Sinead Porter
Mackay Bowls Club’s green has been closed now for a few weeks after being laser levelled, with greenkeeper Bruce Bridger commenting that it is ‘progressing well.’
There is a hope that the green will reopen in early December for Club Men's B Fours able to be finalised. It is proposed that on 17th December, there will be an afternoon of Bowls and presentation of awards to those members who have competed in the Club Championship events.
This Sunday is the Annual General Board meeting of the Club, held at 10:30am. Both Men's Section and Ladies Section have held their Annual General Meetings with all positions filled.
Ladies have been invited by Sarina Club to participate in their Thursday afternoon Social Bowls, with their annual Christmas Break-Up taking place on 15th December at 12pm.
The Men's Section have been travelling out to a few different clubs, including Wednesday afternoons at Sarina Club and the RSL at Slade Point, along with Thursday afternoons at Wests Tigers in Walkerston for their Jackpot Bowls.
Contributed by Mike Irving
Members having a roll at Wests Tigers
Photo supplied
The Mackay Cycling Club wrapped up its 2023 season with the thrilling O'Meara Family Shield Race, facing challenging winds that created a headwind in every direction. Despite the tough conditions, riders gathered for the showdown. The scratch group, led by Kyle Marwood and Brendon Brauer, dominated the race, swiftly passing the field. Brauer emerged victorious, clinching the fastest male time at 45:57.
In a hard-fought battle, Kyle Marwood secured the second spot, followed by Paul Lampard in third. The top 10, including Brendan Hoban, Kevin Walters, Shaun Brennan, Tim Ffrost, Zac Schwarzrock, and Tenille Galea (fastest female with a time of 52:16), showcased the club's cycling talent. Special mention goes to volunteers Graham, Mark, Matt, and Kyle for ensuring the day's success.
O'Meara Family Shield Race Results:
1. Brendon Brauer (45:57)
2. Kyle Marwood
3. Paul Lampard
4. Brendan Hoban
5. Kevin Walters
6. Shaun Brennan
7. Tim Ffrost
8. Zac Schwarzrock
9. Tenille Galea (52:16)
Mackay Cycling Club 2023 Road Season - Tim Ffrost Clinches Cyclist of the Year
As the tyres cooled after the O'Meara Family Shield Race, the Mackay Cycling Club celebrated the conclusion of its 2023 Road Season. In a nail-biting finale, Tim Ffrost pedalled his way to victory, securing a good position in the final race to clinch the coveted Cyclist of the Year title. The season, marked by close finishes and intense competition, saw Ffrost emerge as the triumphant cyclist, with only a few points separating the top contenders.
The final standings for the 2023 Mackay Cycling Club Road Season highlight the remarkable performances of the top riders:
2023 Mackay Cycling Club Road Season Final Results:
1. Tim Ffrost - 63 points (Cyclist of the Year)
2. Luke Schatkowski - 61 points
3. Kyle Marwood - 51 points
4. Tenille Galea - 49 points Shaun Brennan - 49 points Brendan Hoban - 49 points
7. Glen McDermott - 45 points
8. Mark Sheather - 31 points Brendon Brauer - 31 points
10. Andy Pate - 30 points Tracy Falbo - 30 points
In a slam dunk move, Mackay Basketball proudly unveiled the signing of Taylor Mole for the highly anticipated 2024 NBL1 North season.
The 24-year-old baller is set to ignite the court as she suits up for the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes come April next year. Taylor, currently showcasing her skills with the Adelaide Lightning in the WNBL, is ready to bring her A-game to the Mackay squad, adding a new level of excitement to the upcoming season.
Mole brings an array of high-level hoops experience to the Sugar City, having represented Australia as a junior before playing five-years of U.S college basketball for both Colorado State University and the University of California Santa Barbara. Mole’s best year in the NCAA saw her average an impressive 14.3 points and 9.5 rebounds while shooting an astonishing 42 per cent from behind the arc. After finishing her time stateside, the Tasmanian native joined the Cairns Dolphins in the NBL1 North last season, where she posted notable numbers of 16 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists per contest.
The former Basketball Australia Centre of Excellence graduate posted a mammoth 16- point, 16-rebound double-double against Mackay in Round 7, before dropping a season-high 36 points versus Rockhampton in Round 9. Her stellar NBL1 North form helping her land a WNBL contract with the Adelaide Lightning.
McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes Head Coach Jamiey Doevendans was thrilled with the addition the 188cm wing.
“Signing Taylor to our McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes is extremely exciting. Taylor is dynamic, extremely creative off the dribble and can shoot from range at a high clip,” Doevendans said.
“Taylor is also very athletic, and her length will disrupt and change shots driving our defence into offence.
“Her professionalism and work ethic to be successful will be pivotal to our teams’ culture. I’m very much looking forward to Taylor playing with us in 2024.”
Mole shared similar enthusiasm about playing her second NBL1 North season in Mackay.
"I’m super excited to get to Mackay and meet everyone there and I can’t wait to connect with the community and for our team to make an impact in the North next season,” Mole said.
“I’m looking forward to working with Jaimey and the team to continue developing my game and furthering my basketball career.” More McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes NBL1 player announcements are expected in the coming weeks.
Taylor Mole has signed with the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes for NBL1 North 2024. Picture: Adelaide Lightning
Half centuries from schoolboy Etienne Pretorius and all-rounder Chris McEldowney guided Walkerston to their first victory in the 2023-24 Mackay Cricket Association Poole Cup competition last weekend.
McEldowney hit an unbeaten 51 and Pretorius scored 51 in an upset four wicket win over Norths at Harrup Park’s Great Barrier Reef Arena.
The pair were in fine touch as they helped Walkerston eclipse Norths’ tally of 177 with support from legendary quick Adam Knezevic, who compiled 18 valuable runs in a sixth wicket union of 42 with McEldowney.
Left arm swing king Knezevic, the Head Coach of Mackay-Whitsunday’s representative program, capped a fine all-round display when he earlier grabbed 2-10 off his six over spell with fellow quick Nick Lotarski snaring 4-26 off eight overs to dismiss the Devils for 177.
Norths’ representative all-rounder Mason Kohler led the run scoring with 66 with Kai Higham posting 41 off fifty balls with seven boundaries and a six after the Devils were tottering at 4-17.
Kohler (2-22 off seven) and off spinner Mitchell Bourke (2-22) were the pick of the Devils’ bowling attack.
TALENTED batsman Shaun Austin displayed vintage form as Souths consolidated top spot with a decisive victory over Mackay Magpies at the Magpies Sports Ground.
Austin smashed a superb 89 as the Sharks registered 5-183 against the reigning premiers with handy contributions from all-rounder Liam Burgess (44) and an unbeaten 28 from Tom Bugeja.
The capable Burgess combined with Austin for a second wicket partnership of 97.
Souths seamer Cameron Keene shone with the ball – bagging 5-29 off eight overs to help skittle the Magpies for 139 with support from leg spinner Michael Dawes (3-27 off five) and paceman Burgess (2-24 off six).
In a disappointing batting display, Mathew Borg (33), Finley Wilson (28), Blake Ryan (15), Liam Zurvas (14), Todd Dixon (13) and Jaxn Sign (11) were the lone Magpies players to reach double figures.
AN impressive double by gun all-rounder Bailey Camilleri steered Pioneer Valley to a 37-run victory over Brothers at Mirani State High School grounds.
Camilleri cracked 47 off 31 balls with six boundaries and a six to help the Valley post 184 with solid contributions from Lachlan Charnock (33), Joel Bruun (25) and Jade Filewood (23).
Spin twins Cameron Tomerini (4-43 off eight) and Nick Beardmore (3-44 off seven) along with all-rounder Floris Duvenhage (2-42) were the pick of the Brothers’ bowlers.
In reply Brothers were dismissed for 147 with stylish knocks from Duvenhage (49 off 36 balls featuring three sixes and five boundaries) and Joseph Hackney (48) with seven boundaries and a six.
Camilleri was just as prominent with the ball – snaring 3-13 off seven overs in a top team effort with off spinner Cody Filewood (3-23 off eight) and skipper Tim Cridland (2-17).
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures November 7, 2023.
Division 1:
Charlie (Anne Sheridan, Robbie Richards, Graeme Walker) d Foxtrot (Tony Bowman, Tim Shehan, Geoff Denman) 8-3. Anne d Tony 3, -8, -7, 4, 11.
Bravo (Emma Widdup, Vince Boeske, Ivan Perkins) d Delta (Ian McKay, Barry Patterson, Lee Brake) 8-3. Ivan d Ian -8, 7, -9, 4, 3.
Alpha (Mick Ruhl, Janice Kent, Neil Brown) d Echo (Mark Sleeman, Steven Whiting, Goncalo) 7-4. Goncalo d Mick 7, -7, -8, 8, 10.
Division 2:
November (Andrea Nicholson, Will VanDeKaa, Mark Stam, Misha Palod) d Juliet (Lily Boland, Peter Goodson, Noreen Fredericksen, Nehmat Daliwal) 8-6. Andrea d Noreen -7, 13, 4, -11, 10.
India (Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton, Rymer Tabulo, Amanda Wright) d Mike (Steve Mathieson, Mattew West, John McGee, Kade Wright) 9-5. Delma d Matthew -10, 6, -8, 10, 13.
Hotel (Leo Gilbert, Simon Hogan, Steve Crocker, Anaya Reelh) d Lima (Donna Abbott, Geoff Cowan, Ollie Hamelink, YiLin Jiang) 9-5. Steve d Ollie -6, 10, -7, 9, 5.
Golf (George Camilleri, David Symons, Jye Callander, Saisha Palod) d Kilo (Tiffany Camilleri, Godwin, Duncan Sheridan, Craig VanDeKaa) 12-2. Godwin d Saisha -9, 4, 9, -9, 10.
Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures November 7, 2023:
Division 1:
Barra (Steve Mathieson, Delma Knight, Virginia Clayton) d Perch (Charlie Payne, Peter Goodson, Judi Hicks) 7-5. Steve d Charlie -7, -5, 8, 5, 10.
Cod (George Camilleri, Coral Morgan, Kevin Abbott) d Bream (Michael Ibbotson, Pam Joyce, Charles Hamlett) 8-4. George d Michael -5, 7, 12, 7.
Trout (Branko Vucurovic, Noreen Fredericksen, Bryan Marshall) d Tuna (Tony Bowman, John McGee, Ken Best) 8-4. Noreen d Ken 7, 5, -9, 5.
Division 2:
Scallop (Gerry Synnott, Steve Blackshaw) d Prawn (Fred Saliba, Allison Day) 5-4. Fred d Steve 7, -6, 3, -9, 7.
Squid (Marie Taylor, Sharon Muller) d Crab (John Hamelink, Madge Saunders) 6-2. Marie d John -6, 6, -16, 11, 8.
Anne Sheridan in action. Photo credit: Charlie Payne
Mackay Meteorettes coach Jamiey Douvendans has a sharp eye for basketball talent.
The respected hoops mentor has just returned from the Champion Basketball School of Queensland Junior Secondary tournament on the Gold Coast where he marvelled at the skills sets on show.
In his role as Coaching Co-ordinator of the St Patrick’s College Mackay basketball program, the experienced Douvendans guided the school to a Boys Division Three Grand Final appearance and a top five finish in the Girls Division One championship.
These meritorious achievements come hot on the heels of St Patrick’s gold-medal winning performances at the Champion Basketball School of Queensland Opens event at Coomera Indoor Sports Centre during September.
A chuffed Douvendans described the Mackay college’s efforts at the State’s premier basketball schools tournaments as “truly remarkable” and believes the nucleus of both squads are on the Meteors and Meteorettes radar.
“I’ve been coaching St Patrick’s basketball teams for the past decade and this year’s campaign has proved to be our most successful to date,” reflected Jamiey.
“We came away with two gold medals plus a silver and achieved our highest-ever ranking in Division One with our Junior Girls claiming fifth spot,” he quipped.
“Overall at both tournaments we won 25 of our 28 games and were unlucky not to secure a third gold medal after the Junior Boys were beaten in the Grand Final by Ryan Catholic College” the Meteorettes boss added.
St Patrick’s held their own in the tough Division One Junior Girls category with encouraging Pool A victories over Southport State High (70-50), Hillcrest Christian College and Mountain Creek State High (63-53) before blitzing Varsity College (72-27) and rolling Kings Christian College (59-48) in the finals to clinch a top five ranking for the first time.
The Mackay girls were outclassed by powerful Brisbane State High (64-37) and John Paul College (56-41) - their only losses at the tournament.
Douvendans praised the efforts of outstanding combination guard Maggie Thorburn, centre Lily Mapp and promising guards Eden Catip and Skye Vaughan – who are all aged 14 – along with rising 15 year old wing Ally Simpson.
St Patrick’s dominated the Division 3 Junior Boys division – only to stumble at the final hurdle with a heart-breaking 37-29 Grand Final loss to Townsville’s Ryan Catholic College.
The Mackay young guns demonstrated their on-court skills with emphatic victories over Mueller College (77-18), Chisholm Christian College (56-28), St Mary’s College Toowoomba (58-27), Coolum State High (56-24) and Grace Lutheran College Rothwell (61-27) before toppling All Saints Anglican School (35-22) in a semi-final.
Leading the way were talented centre Archie Howell and power forward Isaac Carter,15, along with 14-year-old North Queensland State representative point guard Cooper Curry and combination guard Usai Bickey.
“The boys were disappointed after turning in a below par performance in the final which was their only loss at the championships,” said Douvendans.
“After superb displays leading into the Grand Final they took their eye off the ball in the gold medal clash and strayed away from the game plan,” he surmised.
“But they can all be proud of their efforts in collecting a silver medal which is a tremendous feat in itself” the master coach concluded.
Douvendans was ably supported by a St Patrick’s College basketball panel that featured Jo Ciantar, Rachel McKenzie, Lauren Jones, Scott McSherry and Patrick Hoare.
St Patrick’s College finished runners up in this year’s Division 3 Junior Secondary Boys category at the Champion Basketball School of Queensland tournament on the Gold Coast
St Patrick’s College Junior Secondary Girls team achieved a top five Division One ranking for the first time at this year’s Champion Basketball School of Queensland tournament at Coomera Indoor Sports Centre
Twin centuries by talented Walkerston juniors Tyler Peters and Cooper Newbury proved the highlight of fourth round limited overs action in the Mackay Junior Cricket Association competition.
Padding up in the Under 15B division, the promising colts turned on a batting masterclass to help the Walkerston Under 14s team amass an imposing tally of 1-252 in the 25 overs per side fixture at McLennan Park.
In an entertaining run fest the flamboyant Peters blasted 103 runs off only 56 deliveries including 21 boundaries while Newbery cracked seventeen fours in a dashing knock of 100 before both batsmen retired.
Walkerston restricted the Magpies Under 14 Blacks to 6-141.
The Magpies were best served by skipper Jacob Whitby, who smashed 50 runs off 41 balls with eight boundaries, Aarnav Reelh (38) and Xander Ness (20).
Will Keen was the pick of the Walkerston bowlers with 2-33.
Proserpine Cricket Club defeated the Magpies White team in an Under 15A clash at Proserpine Sports Ground.
Jordan Lawn top scored for the home side with 31 runs off 37 balls with support from Donovan Pettiford (21) in a total of 151.
The Magpies could only muster 8-100 in reply with young gun Ishan Rana cracking a stylish 50 off 56 balls.
Lawn (2-5) and Oliver Seamer (2-6) bowled accurately for Proserpine while Cooper Boyce (3-10 off five overs), Rana (2-11 off four overs) and Soham Rana (2-18 off three overs) spearheaded the Magpies attack.