Tuesday night fixtures April 23, 2024

Division 1:
Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) d Blue (Steve Whiting, Lee Brake, Will VanDeKaa) 6-5. Geoff d Steven -10, 13, -8, 5, 10.

Brown (Andrea Nicholson, Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske) d Red (Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker, George Camilleri) 7-4. Andrea d George -7, 4, 8, -6, 6.

Green (Leo Gilbert, Robbie Richards, Neil Brown) d White (Mick Ruhl, Graham Brake, Mark Sleeman) 6-5. Robbie d Graham 3, 10, -8, -6, 7.

Black (Goncalo Serra, Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) d Purple (Duncan Treloar, Emma Widdup, Tony Bowman) 7-4. Allan d Duncan 6, -6, 7, 5.

Division 2:
Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro, Mark Stam) d Lime (Dave Symons, Noreen Fredericksen, Anaya Reelh) 6-5. Noreen d Mark 6, -11, 4, -9, 2.

Teal (Peter Goodson, Aarnav Reelh, Val Austin) d Tan (Saisha Palod, Jye Callander, Judy Zahn) 6-5. Aarnav d Saisha 1, 7, -9, -4, 12.

Aqua (Delma Knight, YiLin Jiang, Tiffany Camilleri) d Gold (Ollie Hamelink, Steve Mathieson, Ishiaha) 7-4. Ishiara d Tiffany 6, -9, 9, -10, 17.

Grey (Doug Dungavell, Misha Palod) d Cyan (Matt West, Trent Day) 5-4. Trent d Misha -9, 6, 5, -10, 9.

Division 1 Tuesday morning fixtures results for last season

Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson and Kevin Abbott) initially tied on match-winning percentages with Lions (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce and Bryan Marshall).  On a countback Jaguar won with slightly better player percentage wins.  Tony Bowman was leading player with 91.67 percent.

The Cyan team (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor and Louise Gould) took all before them with an unbeaten season in division 2. Marie Taylor was leading player with 90 percent.

Sapphires (Pam Keune, Madge Saunders and Darryl Ross) won division 3. Leading player was Ian Dodds with 83.33 percent.

‍

‍
Winners of the Tuesday morning table tennis tournament John Hamelink and Josie Davis, at left, and Tony Bowman, right, with organizer Steve Mathieson.

‍

The Ladies Section hosted their President's event at home this past Friday, with President Julie extending a warm welcome to 60 members from district clubs, including Men's President John, Board Representative Brian, Life Member Ruby, and Patroness Eunice. The gathering was filled with laughter and spirited bowls matches.
The winning team, comprising B. Jenner, R. Lloyd, and R. Hughes, emerged victorious from the day's play, while the runners up lucky card from the losers were, R. O'Donnell, K. Robinson, and J. Borg. The club extends a heartfelt thanks to all attendees for their contribution to the day's tremendous success.
Looking ahead, this weekend features the Men's Division competing in the Dr. Williams Shield on Saturday, with matches taking place at the City Club and North Mackay. The finals will be held on Sunday at the City Club.

Team 1 G. Luck, R. Bell, N. Holt, R. Blanchfield
Team 2 T. Hollows, B. Paskins, E. Roberts, T. Mayfield
Team 3 A. Lovern, C. Marks, M. Coll, N. Wilson

On the 5th and 6th of May the club will be holding the Prestige Fours.
The green will be full of Bowlers chasing the prize Money.

Results:
Tuesday Social Play (22)
Winner of Winners:
G. Gibbs, W. Herewini, J. Nelson, B. Paskins
Winner of Losers:
L. Jenner, B. Jenner, P. Taaffe.

Thursday SCROUNGERS (18):
K. Struik def M. Coll   15-9

Club Competition Results:
A Singles
B. Jenner def C. Molloy 25 -17
M. Irving def A. Summerville 27-19
M. Coll def W. Herewini 26-19
B. Bridger def S. Green 25-11

Contributed by Mike Irving

‍

Goosepond Triples was a fun packed day with 78 bowlers vying for a share in the $2,000 prize money generously donated by our sponsors Minestaff and Gardian Mortgage Choice, for a second year. 

Three games of 16 ends determined the place-getters with the lucky winners being presented their trophies by Denis Fisher & Ben Phillips from Gardian.  Clint Zahmel from Minestaff sent his apologies. 

First place: 
Lorna Coad, Del McKelvie & Ahondy Ray

Second place:  
Kathy Mathews, Carmel Bell & Phyllis Morgan

Third place: 
Kay Underwood, Phyllis Cooper & Narell Schmidtke

Fourth place: 
Daelia Walsh, Maryann Harrigan & Bev McDonald

‍

Contributed with thanks to Helen Fleming 

‍

1: Winners: L Coad, D McKelvie, A Ray. Photos supplied
2: 2nd place getters: K Mathews, C Bell, P Morgan
3: 3rd Place: K Underwood, P Cooper, Narell Schmidtke
4: 4th place: D Walsh, Maryann Harrington, Bev McDonald 

‍

Premiership, with Cutters captain Tahlulah Tillett saying it was disappointing to miss out on two season points up for grabs.

Bears winger Ashleigh Werner was on fire, scoring a hat-trick in front of a big and boisterous crowd; one in the first half to help the Bears go into half-time up 14-4, and the final two in the second half to help deliver the 22-10 win.

Bears captain Zahara Temara said "oh man, it feels good to be back in the winner's circle", especially this close to State of Origin and the Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons being named.

"We haven't had the best year and we know that," Temara said.

"We've faced a lot of adversity recently... we had a lot to play for with ANZAC Day this week and a few of our staff had passings as well.

"We'll take it."

Temara said the scoreline did not reflect how hard the game was.

"They were bloody hard, the Cutters, and they deserve to be on top," Temara said.

"We take a lot of learnings from them. They bloody gave it to us... the score doesn't reflect that but it was bloody close out there, with them coming back, and they had all of the momentum, and that's where we stayed calm.”

Temara said it was hit-out for everyone in contention to play Origin.

"I got a lot of confidence out of that so if I am selected, I'll take that with me," Temara said.

Cutters captain Tahlulah Tillett said "it was a bit disappointing" to miss out on the two points, but her side would take learnings from the game into the next round.

"We let Burleigh come out to a really good start and they're a quality team so it was hard to come back... I was proud of our efforts in the second half, we fought our way back into the game, but we gave Burleigh that headstart in the first half and it was a bit too hard to come back," Tillett said.

"I think the biggest thing for us is we just need to make sure we control the ball and make sure we get to the end of our sets.

"We found ourselves in some really good positions early in the first half but we just gave away silly penalties and piggybacked them around the field. The great team that they are, they executed off the back of those. 

"I think going into next week, at the back end of the season, we just need to be more disciplined and make sure we're completing and executing our sets."

‍

Photo credit: Dylan Parker/QRL

‍

More than seventy runners and supporters supported the 6th Annual Forsyth’s Accounting Services Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield and Mackay Road Runners 10km Club Championship event held at historic Queens’s Park, where valuable funds were raised for Pancreatic Cancer Research (Pancare). 

Special invited guests in attendance were the Mackay Mayor, Cr Greg Williamson who has opened the event every year since its inception, Ms Leanne Druery and Mr Jim Ford.  Their speeches were full of compassion and sincerity, provoking emotional remembrance and thoughts of Shawn who passed away in 2018. Shawn was a treasured son, brother, brother-in-law, father, nephew, cousin, athlete, partner, friend, colleague, coach, runner and club supporter of all those lives he touched.    
One hundred per cent of all nomination fees, raffle proceeds, race day donations and sponsorship funds will be donated to Pancare thanks to the generosity of major sponsors.

We also thank our Club Patron Mr Col Meng and his family for donating the zooper doopers at this event as well as other weekly club events on the program. The Meng and Leven families are so much appreciated together with all club volunteers who make the club the successful welcoming arena that it is.
 
Mackay Mayor Cr Greg Williamson and Forsyths Accounting Director/Partner, Nicole White were integral in setting runners on their way towards their chance to be crowned first male and female winners in the 2024 Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield as well as gaining club championship points for open and age categories.  Incredibly stunning performances by the first male and female 10km winners, Paul Mackenzie and Alana Knezevic will now be inscribed on the amazing perpetual trophy featuring an image of Shawn in racing glory which resides at the Forsyth Accounting Services office. Five-kilometre winners, Jo Skinner and Craig McGahey had sensational outings, both taking home the gold medal prize in the shorter-distance event.
 
Many thanks to race day volunteers including the exceptional Andrew Short who was luckily on hand for the Vice-President when his car needed a jump start. Funds raised from the day are still to be collated and will be formally announced and presented to the Claydon Family for donation directly to Pancare.  Thank you to Shawn’s sister, Sharon and Jeff Stewart-Harris who did an amazing amount of work behind the scenes to ensure the success and continuity of the event. 
 
This Sunday’s Mackay Road Runners event will be a social run from the Bluewater Quay as a lot of local runners will be travelling ‘overseas’ to Hamilton Island for the running of the famous Hilly Half Marathon event in one of the most spectacular locations in the Whitsundays. 

‍

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

‍

Mackay Road Runners Club Vice-President, Mick Scholer, Mackay Mayor Cr Greg Williamson, Forsyths Accounting Services Director/Partner, Nicole White, Sharon Stewart-Harris, John Claydon and Bonny Claydon (seated) enjoy the 6th annual Forsyths Accounting Services Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield and Mackay Road Runners Club Championship

The Forsyths Accounting Services Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield winners, Paul Mackenzie and Alana Knezevic with Mackay Road Runners Vice-President Mick Scholer (left) and major sponsor, Forsyth’s Accounting Services Director/Partner, Nicole White (right)

6351 - The Forsyths Accounting Services Shawn Claydon Memorial Shield 5km winners, Craig McGahey & Jo Skinner with Mackay Road Runners Vice-President Mick Scholer (left) and major sponsor, Forsyth’s Accounting Services Director/Partner, Nicole White (right)

6348 – The Forsyths Accounting Services Shawn Claydon Memorial 10km Shield very special guest speakers, Mr Jim Ford and Ms Leanne Druery delivered personally emotive and meaningful comments at the 6th Annual event

6360 – Jeff Stewart-Harris (Brother-in-law of the late Shawn Claydon) thanked the Claydon family, Mackay Road Running community, sponsors, volunteers and supporters for a very successful event for a very worthy cause
 

‍

With hoops aplenty and defence as tight as a well-laced sneaker, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes orchestrated a symphony of basketball brilliance last Friday night, dribbling, dunking, and dazzling their way to victories.
In a thrilling clash against the Brisbane Capitals, the Meteors showcased their prowess, emerging victorious with a final score of 92 to 73. Todd Blanchfield led the charge with an impressive performance, contributing 21 points and 7 rebounds to the team's triumph. Isaac White also delivered a stellar performance with 19 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists, while Jerron Jamerson added 15 points and 3 rebounds to seal the win.
Meanwhile, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes soared to success against the Brisbane Capitals in the NBL1 North encounter, securing a resounding victory with a final score of 84 to 71. Taylor Mole was the standout player for the Meteorettes, delivering a sensational performance with 30 points and 8 rebounds. Sam Haiby showcased her skills with 20 points, 5 assists, and 4 steals, while Chelsea Brook contributed 14 points and 5 rebounds to clinch the win for the team.
The passionate home crowd erupted in celebration as both teams showcased their dominance on the court, delivering a memorable night of basketball action.
Looking ahead, the excitement continues as the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes and Meteors gear up for their next games on Saturday night. The action-packed evening will see the Meteorettes take on the Rockhampton Cyclones at 6:30 pm, followed by the Meteors facing off against the Rockhampton Rockets at 8:30 pm in the Crater at McDonald’s Mackay Stadium.
The matchup against the Rockhampton Rockets and Cyclones always brings an extra level of excitement to the Crater. With both teams boasting strong rosters and a history of intense competition, the games between Mackay and Rockhampton are eagerly anticipated by fans on both sides. This rivalry adds an extra spark to the season, driving both teams to bring their A-game every time they meet on the court.

‍

Event Details:
   • Date: Saturday, April 27
   • Time:
       ◦ 6:30 pm: McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes vs. Rockhampton Cyclones
       ◦ 8:30 pm: McDonald’s Mackay Meteors vs. Rockhampton Rockets
   • Venue: McDonald’s Mackay Stadium, the Crater

Photo credit: Kieron Place Art & Photography

‍

Last Sunday, 66 participants graced the Beach Road Dolphin Heads precincts, surpassing the attendance of the previous week's Tim’s Chariots of Fire event at Slade Point, confirmed by the event organiser and the author. While some may contest this tally, it's worth noting that The Tilse’s Toddle two weeks earlier boasted numbers nearing the triple-digit mark, with Whibley’s Wander closely following suit.
One undeniable highlight was the hospitality of the Bishop’s Beach Road Barnstormer hosts, who generously opened their doors to accommodate the runners, offering a delightful morning of competition followed by a well-deserved post-run refreshment of a cuppa and sausage sizzle.
The Mackay Road Runners gratitude is extended to Julie, Brendan, Millie, Hughie, and all the neighbourhood kids and furry friends for contributing to the warmth and enjoyment of the occasion. It was said to be a beautiful morning filled with camaraderie and healthy competition!

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

‍

Emily Hayles (left) and Mel Esau get in some quality racing at the Bishop’s Beach Road Barnstormer 10km.
Approximately sixty Mackay Road Runners’ members, casual day runners and supporters enjoyed a magnificent morning from a magnificent location at Beach Road, Dolphin Heads.
Craig Andrews (#107) completed a sensational 10km which included a spirited sprint to the finish line with his running peers.
Mackay Road Runners’ stalwart, Jan Smith (#5) and Alleny Gorrion (right) enjoyed a cruisey 5km with a pressure cooker finish.
The Bishop’s Beach Rd Barnstormer resident, Millie Bishop had no excuses to be late!
Dolphin Heads Beach Road Neighbourhood Watch had nothing on these kids as they supported runners in the two loop 5km/10km event.

‍

‍

The Mackay cyclone swimmers surged into the National MC and Age Championships, held recently on the vibrant shores of the Gold Coast. Among the tide of competitors, two fresh qualifiers, Jarek Taylor and Ava Kearns, joined the seasoned attendees Max Vernon, Audrey Bryan and Vaughn Wyatt for their second year.
Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier said all the athletes swam well, and had a blast soaking up the atmosphere. Acknowledging the significant accomplishment of qualifying for such a prestigious level of competition, she said it was a particular delight to have six team members, including Izabella from the MC National age group, securing qualification, which was nothing short of fantastic.
The competition, characterised by its scale and speed, offers invaluable lessons for growth, not only for the athletes but also for the coaching staff, who seize the opportunity to collaborate with peers.
Yet, amidst the thrill of competition, it's essential to recognise the dedication it has taken for these athletes to reach this stage. Early mornings, meticulous time management balancing school, swimming, and friendships, all underscore the immense commitment required. Coach Pokarier emphasises that such dedication at a young age cultivates essential life skills, setting the foundation for success beyond the pool.
Reflecting on the broader impact of coaching, Alisha Ness from Mackay Cyclones proudly recounts witnessing former team member Ruby Boxall, now at Somerville House in Brisbane, clinching her first National gold medal in the 100 Backstroke. Witnessing such moments with their triumphant smiles as they surpass their own expectations can be described as truly ‘priceless’.

“This was a very proud moment for me,” Alisha remarked.

“Playing a part in all of my athlete’s journey, however big or small the achievement, the smile and excitement on their faces when they achieve something they believed they never could do is priceless.”

(Left to right) Audrey Bryan, Vaughn Wyatt, Jarek Taylor, Izabella Wills, Ava Kearns, Coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier. Absent: Max Vernon. Image supplied

‍

Coral Morgan celebrated her 83rd birthday this week – playing table tennis.

Coral’s daughter Delma Knight, who has played table tennis alongside her mum since she was a child, baked her a delicious cake which was enjoyed by the players at Tuesday morning fixtures.

Coral and Val Austin have been playing since the 70s, and they played out a huge battle on Tuesday, Coral winning -12, 7, -8, 11, 6.

Full details of fixtures including player standings are available at https://www.revolutionise.com.au/mackaytta/fixtures-results/

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures April 16, 2024:

Division 1:

Pumas (George Camilleri, Andrea Nicholson, Coral Morgan) d Cheetahs (Donna Abbott, Doug Dungavell, Val Austin) 8-4. Coral d Val -12, 7, -8, 11, 6.

Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Tigers (Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, John McGee) 8-4. Branko d John 8, -7, -11, 7, 8.

Lions (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Bryan Marshall) d Leopards (Charlie Payne, Steve Mathieson, Judy Zahn) 7-5. Pam d Steve 7, -6, -8, 8, 8.

Division 2:

Cyan (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor, Louise Gould) d Teal (Ken Best, Kim Daffy) 10-2. Ken d Louise -10, 4, 9, 6.

Aqua (Judi Hicks, Gloria Vella, Gerry Synnott) d Lime (Iris Grasso, Fred Saliba, John Hamelink) 8-4. Judi d John -7, 7, 7, -8, 12.

Division 3:

Sapphires (Josie Davis, Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross) d Emeralds (Ian Dodds, Glenda Brookes, Trish Zamparuti) 7-5. Madge d Trish -5, -9, 7, 2, 6.

A new season of Tuesday night table tennis fixtures hit off this week. It’s always nice to see new and returning players enjoying the fixtures. It’s never too late to join, so give Donna Abbott a call 0400 769 560.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures April 16, 2024:

Division 1:

Brown (Barry Patterson, Vince Boeske, Andrea Nicholson) d Orange (Donna Abbott, Janice Kent, Geoff Denman) 6-5. Vince d Donna -12, 6, -6, 4, 11.

Blue (Will VanDeKaa, Steven Whiting, Lee Brake) d Red (Anne Sheridan, Graeme Walker, George Camilleri) 8-3. Graeme d Will -9, 7, 6, -4, 8.
Purple (Tony Bowman, Duncan Treloar) d Green (Leo Gilbert) 6-2. Leo d Duncan 8, 6, -5, -9, 6.

Black (Mick Ruhl, Ishan Rana, Allan Robins) d White (Mark Sleeman, Andrew McHugh, Graham Brake) 6-5. Ishan d Graham 7, 7, -4, -4, 8.

Division 2:

Tan (Jye Callander, Rymer Tabulo, Saisha Palod) d Rose (Nehmat Dhaliwal, Niro, Mark Stam) 6-5. Jye d Mark 8, 6, -4, 1.

Lime (Simon Hogan, Noreen Fredericksen) d Teal (Peter Goodson, Craig VanDeKaa) 7-2. Noreen/Simon d Craig/Peter 18, -3, -3, 5, 12.

Gold (Ollie Hamelink, Steve Mathieson, Rohit Bansod) d Cyan (Matt West, Val Austin, Leonie Patroni) 9-2. Ollie d Val 6, -8, 8, -9, 4.

Aqua (Judy Zahn, Delma Knight, Robbie Richards) d Grey (Doug Dungavell, Misha Palod, Kade Wright) 8-3. Kade d Judy 4, 7, -9, -9, 10.

‍

Val Austin and Coral Morgan

‍

The Mackay Champion Pairs was played on Saturday 13th April, with thirty pairs entered. This was a great attendance with players attending from Bowen and Airlie Beach as well as local players. Sixty players played across A, B and C grades. Max and Diane Holewa won A section with Robert Carless and Janelle Conroy runners up. Jan Harris and Mick King won the B section with Ming Ting and Debra Goodchild runners up. Sandy Patterson and Geoff Cowan won C Section with Annie Lynch and Sandra Morris runners up.

‍

A section winners Diane and Max with President Noel

C Section winners Sandy and Geoff with President Noel and Anne Lutz Convener

‍

Weekly Results
Monday 15 April 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Josie Cowley
2nd
Max Holewa / Diane Holewa
3rd
Joy Block / Nancy Wix
4th
David Ting / Eric Goodchild
5th
Geoffrey Patterson / Noel Bugeia
6th
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
Tuesday Evening 16 April 2024 –8 Table Mitchell Green Points
1st
Noel Bugeia / Eric Goodchild
1st
Geoff Taylor / Frances Brown
2nd
Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Annette Howe
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Terry Sheedy
2nd
Simon Barnes / Errol Morris

3rd
Marilin Robins / Faye Wright
Wednesday 17 April 2024 – Unders and Overs 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Sandy Patterson / Ian Cruickshank
1st
Lorna Shuttlewood / Joy Brunette

2nd
Joy Block / Janet Hansen
2nd
Geoff Taylor / Ted Cullinan

3rd
Karen Caldwell / Alan Brown
3rd
Geoffrey Patterson / Susan Ross

4th
Geoff Cowan / Nancy Wix
4th
Susan Wright / Bob Ellis

5th
Sue Meyer-Miller / Kath Poole
5th
Gwen Liddell / Errol Morris

Thursday Evening 18 April 2024 –5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janet Hansen / Janelle Conroy
1st
Susan Ross / Jan Harris
2nd
Vicki Howard / Richard Wix
2nd
Patricia Garner / Mick King
Friday 19 April 2024 - 9 Table Green Points
1st
Terrence Sheedy / Noel Bugeia
1st
Julie O’Neill / Joy Block
2nd
Debra Goodchild / Lorna Shuttlewood
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Kath Poole / Nancy Martin
3rd
David Ting / Ming Ting
4th
Joy Brunette / Don Poole
4th
Susan Wright / Geoffrey Patterson
Saturday 20 April 2024 – 11 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Janette Hansen / Diane Morgan
1st
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Geoffrey Patterson / Terrence Sheedy
2nd
Nancy Martin / Ken Seaniger
3rd
Frances Brown / Alan Brown
3rd
Faye Wright / Marilin Robins
4th
Ted Cullinan / Noel Saunders
4th
David Ting / Ming Ting
5th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
5th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

5th
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
‍

Contributed by Joy Block

‍

‍

The upcoming 2024 AFL Mackay season is set to commence, kicking off on Saturday, April 20, with the debut of AFL Mackay’s "Gather Round" at Harrup Park. The inaugural round will feature eight football games across three competition grades, all held at the same venue.
Following the AFL's "Gather Round" in Adelaide, AFL Mackay is launching the "Regional Gather Round," marking the first time in Queensland community football history where a round will be played at a single venue for all senior grades.
Anticipation has been steadily building throughout the preseason, with all seven clubs primed to participate with five local Mackay clubs, along with teams from Moranbah Women and Whitsunday Men on the day.
The AFL Mackay Gather Round event will span across three ovals at Harrup Park, with the highlight being the Marquee Men’s match between the Mackay City Hawks and Mackay Magpies, taking place under the floodlights of the Great Barrier Reef Arena at 4:40 pm.

You can catch the action with a kick off at 11am, featuring the Triple M Women’s Cup, followed by the commencement of the Allied Senior Men’s matches at 12pm. Entry is FREE for all attendees, and convenient parking is available at Field 10 via Bridge Rd.

‍

The highly anticipated 2024 AFL Mackay season is set to kick off on Saturday, April 20th.  Image supplied.

‍

By Amanda Wright
History was made as the Mackay Cutters secured the title of the first-ever Harvey Norman Under 19 premiers. Hooker Paityne Johns emerged as the standout player of the match, steering her team to victory with sheer determination and skill.
Reflecting on the momentous win, Paityne expressed her exhaustion but overwhelming happiness at the team's triumph. She credited their success to a collective effort and a mindset focused on giving their best on the field.
"My mindset was to just play the best footy I can and the goal was to direct the girls and get us across the line," Paityne said.
Despite facing numerous challenges and injuries throughout the season, the Cutters rallied together, playing not just for themselves but for their absent teammates as well.
"With a number of injuries this season, we did it for the girls who couldn't be on the field," Paityne remarked.
The absence of their coach only fuelled their determination, as they dedicated their inaugural victory to him. Cutters U19 ladies captain Mersades Lawson beamed with pride as she praised her team's resilience and grit in clinching the Harvey Norman Under 19 grand final victory.
In the Hostplus Cup, the Mackay Cutters continued their winning streak with a commanding 52-14 triumph over the Western Clydesdales. Despite facing early challenges and a halftime deficit, the Cutters showcased their mettle, scoring an impressive eight tries to secure their highest points tally in a match.
Coach Michael Comerford commended his team's patience and composure, emphasising the importance of discipline in defence.
"Our attack in the first half was pretty good, it was just our discipline in defence costing us possession and field position," Comerford said, highlighting the team's areas for improvement.
Highlighting standout performances from halves Riley Dean and Kauri Aupouri-Puketapu, Comerford lauded their response after a disappointing showing in the previous week. "We challenged them during the week off the back of a performance we weren't happy with last week against the Blackhawks and they stood up and steered the ship," Comerford added.
The inclusion of Jaxon Purdue added to the team's success, with the 18-year-old halfback making a significant impact with his try-scoring prowess.
"We're very proud Jaxon has come through our junior pathways and had a really breakout couple of years," Comerford said.
In other games, the BMD Premiership squad ladies continued their dominance with a fifth consecutive win, overpowering the Western Clydesdales with a commanding 34-6 victory. Additionally, the U19 boys showcased their prowess in the Mal Meninga Cup, securing a convincing 34-16 win against the Western Clydesdales in Toowoomba.

‍

The Mackay Cutters took the Harvey Norman Under 19 Grand Final win
Hostplus Cup Round 5. Western Clydesdales v Mackay Cutters. Photo: Benny Hassum/QRL

‍

Nearly sixty runners enjoyed the perfect Sunday morning weather conditions as they traversed the scenic hills of Slade Point to Lamberts Beach for the five-kilometre and beyond to the Harbour North Wall for the ten-kilometre distance.
 
The Tim’s Chariots of Fire event was hosted by club treasurer, Tim Magoffin and the course was a beauty with plenty of varying terrain to keep runners alert and on their toes. The Slade Point and Lamberts Beach suburbs put on spectacular weather where it had South of the Bridge tourists wanting to crossover to take up residence...nearly!
 
Mick Vivian stole the show as he bolted from the gun and into the ten-kilometre course with no fear of rocky unsealed mountainous hills, steep tarmac roads, grassy slopes, sandy beaches and serious headwinds. Mick steamed over the course in a cracking time of 49 minutes 49 seconds ahead of first female and 2nd overall, Alana Knezevic (52:09). Alana set a serious pace from the get-go, splitting the boys with a sensationally slick race.  Second male Ashley Miles (53:32), George Hannaford (54:20), Brad Fraser (55:00), Michael Feenaghty (55:14); Shane Donnollan (55:35), Grant Holmstrom (56:05), Derek Woods (57:21), John Roe (58:17) and Oliver Rule (59:50) rounded out the top ten males with Craig McGahey (59:52) just outside by two seconds and Michael Scholer right on the hour.  Second female in the 10km Mel Esau scorched over the course finishing two minutes clear of third placed Jose Short, Rhian Massey, Tahnie Malageuno, Glynis Forse, Emily Hayles, Carmel Mahon, Jo Skinner and Judy Zahn.
 
Justin Rule made a welcome return to racing after clocking the fastest five-kilometre ahead of first female Teresa Hackney, followed by host Tim Magoffin who had to be back in time to put the kettle on. 
 
This Sunday’s President’s Run from Brendan’s Beach Road residence at Dolphin Heads will be the second annual running of the five-kilometre and ten-kilometre Bishops Beach Road Barnstormer. Many thanks to the Bishop family for their generous offer of another testing hilly run in an awesome location. Runners must be registered in with timekeeper by 6:50am at the latest for racing to start at 7am sharp. Non-members are most welcome to run for a $10 casual race day fee. 
 
Contributed by Janelle Tilse

‍

Katrina, Glynis, Simon, Emma,  Rhiann, Judy and Geeta get set for the Tim’s Chariots of Fire event commencing from 16 Ocean Avenue, Slade Point.
Tahnie Malagueno heads a group of runners after a tricky grassy uphill section at Lamberts Beach Lookout.
Mick Vivian outclasses a talented field of 10km runners to be first male across the line.

‍

Mackay Cyclones Multiclass Athlete Izabella Wills launched herself into the Australian MC and made waves at the Age championships held on the Gold Coast recently, bringing home a swag of medals.

Izabella competed in six events initially, along with six in the finals, securing a medal in each one!

Izabella is now the New Australian champion for 2024 in the 50 Freestyle and 50 Butterfly. She also earnt four Silver medals in all her other events for the 100 Backstroke, 100 Freestyle, 200 Freestyle and 50 Backstroke.

Her coach Leigh-Anne Pokarier said, “working with Izabella has been one of the most rewarding experiences, not only from an athlete coach perspective but from a coach development side as well, the old adage ‘you are never too old to learn new things’ comes to mind.

“Izabella works very hard alongside all her cyclone team mates, it involves early morning starts whilst most of her friends are sleeping in, as well as good time management of schoolwork and studies,” she added.

‘Bell’, as she is fondly known, has a great support team around her and at the helm is her mum Lisa and Dad Joe.

Contributed By Alisha Ness

‍

Isabella Wills took home multiple medals at the Age championships held on the Gold Coast recently. Images Supplied

‍

Mackay Indoor Pickleball club held a very successful inaugural Pickleball Competition throughout the Easter Weekend. It was held at McDonald's Multi-sports Stadium nd welcomed players from near and far. The event consisted of both local players, as well as visitors from across Townsville, Home Hill, Bowen, Whitsundays, Rockhampton, Brisbane and even California.
The competition was friendly and social but undoubtedly very intense, with a focus solely on competitions with men’s and women’s doubles which played out on Saturday, followed by mixed doubles on Sunday.  
On each day the entrants competed in one of three categories: Advanced, Intermediate or Serious Social, a category included to welcome new or inexperienced players to their first competition.
The atmosphere throughout was very positive and friendly with players supporting one another and applauding good play.  At the same time, there was intense competition and hard-fought battles, however, as a result, a good time was had by all.  
Mackay Indoor Pickleball club would like to give a special thanks to Mackay Basketball Association for the use of the stadium and for keeping the players nourished from the canteen over the weekend.  With gratitude also, to Mackay Tennis club for the loan of Pickleball nets and for all those who contributed to prizes and the raffle.
Mackay Indoor Pickleball welcomes new players at McDonalds Multi-sports Stadium on Mondays 9.30am to 11.30am. Main games take place at Mackay PCYC on Tuesdays 5.30 pm – 7.30 pm, Thursdays 12-2 pm and Sundays 9am – 11am.  
‍

Results:
Women’s Doubles
‍

Advanced:

1st Lucy Brown and Kim Presland
2nd Sue Kenniff and Rebecca Moore
3rd Heather Hayes and Karyl Young

Intermediate:

1st Joyce Morris and Hayley Mawhirt
2nd Asia Cossley and Jackie Burling
3rd Jacky Hardman and Heather Barnes

Social:

1st Kelly Edwards and Anne-Louise Stewart
2nd Tahnee Armstrong and Jamie Macklin
3rd Cherie Craig and Lesley Rowe
‍

Men’s Doubles
‍

Advanced:

1st Gerard Howard and Brett Walz
2nd Rob Vella and Jamie Duncan
3rd Damon Hardmon and Brendan Rae
‍

Intermediate:

1st Trevor Gregory and Peter Hughes
2nd Leo Gilbert and Craig Neilson
3rd David Selvage and Eamon McGovern

Mixed Doubles:

‍
Advanced:

1st Rob Vella and sue Kenniff
2nd Brendan Rae and Rebecca Moore
3rd Yoko Stimson and Frank Clayton

Intermediate:

1st Craig Nielson and Heather Barnes
2nd Graham Scott and Heather Hayes
3rd Neil McNee and Lou Battersby

Social:

1st Debbie Barbagallo and Ben Barbagallo
2nd Jamie Macklin and Peter Hutching
3rd Tahnee Armstrong and Craig Armstrong

Contributed by Monica Stewart-McLean

Advanced Women’s Doubles
Intermediate Men’s Doubles
Advanced Men’s Doubles
Intermediate Mixed Doubles
Advanced Mixed Doubles
Social Women’s Doubles
Intermediate Women’s Doubles
Images supplied

‍

In a gripping round of rugby league action, the Mackay Cutters faced formidable challenges across divisions. The Hostplus Cup clash against the Townsville Blackhawks showcased a fiercely contested battle at Jack Manski Oval. With an early lead courtesy of Ross Bella's third-minute try, the Cutters traded blows with the Blackhawks throughout the first half. Townsville responded with a four-pointer in the 15th minute, and John Radal crossed for the Cutters in the 25th minute to keep the match level. Christian Gale's try for the Blackhawks just before halftime added to the intensity, with the teams tied at 12-all at the halfway point.
In the second half, Semi Valemei's spectacular intercept try in the 54th minute gave the Cutters a brief lead. However, the Blackhawks struck back with another try ten minutes later to even the score once again. With only five minutes remaining, Townsville sealed the match with a match-winning field goal, clinching a narrow victory of 19-18. Despite the loss, the Cutters showcased resilience and determination, making it a thrilling encounter for fans and players alike.
Meanwhile, in the BMD Premiership ladies' division, the Mackay Cutters continued their dominant form, securing yet another win over the Souths Logan Magpies with a commanding 26-16 triumph. The ladies displayed exceptional skill and teamwork, maintaining their unbeaten streak and further establishing themselves as a force in the competition.
In the Harvey Norman U19s category, the Cutters' girls delivered a standout performance, booking their ticket to the Grand Final after a hard-fought victory over the Western Clydesdales in Brisbane. With a final score of 18-10, the young Cutters displayed resilience and determination, setting the stage for an exciting finale as they vie for championship glory.

The Harvey Norman U19s undergo their Captain's Run ahead of their Semi-Final clash in Brisbane. Photos courtesy of Mackay Cutters

‍

The North Mackay Bowls Club recently hosted the Mackay Ladies District Master Pairs event, spanning over two weeks of spirited competition. Generously sponsored by Carlyle Gardens, this tournament attracted 22 teams hailing from Airlie Beach to Sarina, with the majority of participants representing the host club. It was no surprise as the competition narrowed down to the final four teams that three of whom were from North Mackay.

Last year's winners, Joan McGrath and Larda Purdie from Airlie Beach, put up a valiant performance against Lorna Bowers and Val De Pinto in the final, resulting in a draw at 21 ends. Lorna and Val were declared the winners after another end had them one ahead. Third and fourth places were taken out by Chris Woo and Chris Hall who defeated Cheryle Corbett and Pat O'Neill.

‍

Lorraine Silman with Snr Vice President of the District.

Lorraine Silman, Snr Vice President of the District, with the four teams who played off in the finals. Lorraine presented the trophies.
Images supplied

‍

‍

As the countdown begins for the much-anticipated start of the NBL1 competition, basketball fever is reaching its peak in Mackay. This Friday night marks the commencement of an electrifying journey for the Mackay Meteors and Meteorettes as they kick off their NBL1 campaigns with a home advantage at the iconic Crater.
This season's opener holds an extra special significance, as Mackay welcomes back one of its own legends – Australian Boomer Todd Blanchfield.
Blanchfield's return to the McDonald’s Mackay Meteors after his stellar stint with the Illawarra Hawks is a cause for celebration among fans. With 15 seasons and 385 games under his belt, Blanchfield's presence promises to inject unparalleled productivity and versatility into the Meteors' NBL1 North lineup.
But it's not just about the thrill of the game; it's also about making a difference off the court. For the Meteorettes, the evening holds a poignant touch as they participate in the annual 'night in pink'. Donning special pink singlets, the players aim to raise funds for the McGrath Foundation in support of breast cancer awareness.
The schedule for the evening is packed with excitement:
   • 6:30 PM: McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes take on the Townsville Flames
   • 8:30 PM: McDonald’s Mackay Meteors face off against the Townsville Heat
It's a showdown you won't want to miss! So, grab your tickets, rally your friends, and head to the Crater for an unforgettable night of basketball action.
‍

Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/CQUVL

Meteor and Meteorette uniform presentations for the 2024 NBL1 Season Launch at Souths Suburban Bowls Club. Photos supplied: Mackay Basketball

‍

Nearly one hundred runners and supporters met Sunday afternoon for the running of the annual five and ten-kilometre, Tilse Toddle handicap start event. The five-kilometre loop course took runners through the West Mackay streets towards Archibald Street and return. The steamy conditions put ten-kilometre runners to the test as they headed out for their second lap.
 
The events had runners in clusters at the start line based on their formal club handicap.  This enables the faster runners to start their race from the back of the pack in a bid to chase down the lower handicapped runners.  The concept is a great way for all runners to experience a different position in the field as opposed to a scratch start.
 
Exceptional performances were showcased by talented sportsmen, Greg Coulsen and Ryan Evetts.  Alana Knezevic continued her excellent form to sprint to the finish line alongside Michael Feenaghty. Long-term member of the club, John Searston was a welcome visitor at the club’s last two events after a brief stopover in Mackay over the Easter break.  Paul MacKenzie’s high mileage training and racing sessions are continuing to be very beneficial for local, out of town and international events despite experiencing tough competition from fellow athletes, Grant Holmstrom, Jared Mackie, Luke Leven, Michael Scholer, Shane Donnollan, George Hannaford and the Rule brothers, Oliver and Toby. 
 
Tim’s Chariots of Fire, five and ten-kilometre event this Sunday will commence from 6.30am at 16 Ocean Avenue, Slade Point. It will be an awesome start to the day, taking in beautiful scenic views and a variety of tricky terrain. Runners must be checked in with the timekeeper by 6.20am.  Runners are welcome to stay for a post run dip in the pool and refreshments.  Casual day runners are invited to participate with a $10 race day fee.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

Crystal and Mick observe Arthur and Beck (seated) who are on timekeeping duties.
Natasha Joynson sneaks across the 5km finish line via handicap start ahead of Len Haworth.
Some of Mackay Road Runners lovely ladies enjoy the post-race afternoon tea and chat (back) Millie, Jo, Jose, Bernie, Kim, Leanne and Jen. (front) Lauren, Sacha, Emily and Naomi.

‍
Images supplied

‍

Mackay’s table tennis juniors brought home four medals from the state junior championships in Brisbane.

Olie Hamelink, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang, Saisha and Misha Palod and Lily Boland competed in the state junior table tennis championships.

Lily Boland and Saisha Palod both brought home medals as part of a six-player Mackay squad, who competed against more than 100 from around the state.

Lily won silver and bronze in the U19 girls singles and doubles, while Saisha took out silver in the U15 girls’ teams and bronze in U13 girls doubles.

Trent Day, YiLin Jiang, Olie Hamelink and Misha Palod also competed, accompanied by manager Donna Abbott and supporter Simon Hamelink.

All players compete in the Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night competitions and have progressed through the junior program held on Wednesday afternoons.

‍

Bronze medal winner Mackay’s Lily Boland, right, on the podium with U19 state girls singles champion Tiffany Lam of the Star club, Brisbane and runner-up Telesha Gaeta of Townsville, left. Photos supplied

‍

Saturday saw the playing of the second qualifying GNOT Gold Point Teams event. Twelve teams vyed for Gold Points which are only available to win in certain events or if players travel away to congresses. It was pleasing to see many novice players enter the competition. Once the basics of Bridge have been taught, then the more a person plays the better they get at the game and the more they learn and the better they play. It takes years to become match fit, but it is so much fun to play and learn and improve as you go!
Team Conroy took first place in the Mackay event, with members Janelle Conroy, Terrence Sheedy, Josie Cowley and Geoff Taylor narrowly beating team Brown members, Frances Brown, Alan Brown, Thelma Caruana and Janet Hansen.

The 28th Barrier Reef Congress is being held in Mackay, Friday, 3rd May to Monday, 6th May 2024

‍

Monday 1 April 2024 – 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy
2nd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
3rd
Mick King / Patricia Garner
4th
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
5th
Margaret Lane / Barbara Tait
6th
Geoff Cowan / Sandy Patterson
Tuesday Evening 2 April 2024 –5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy
2nd
Mick King / Richard Wic
3rd
Shelley Lewis / Geoff Taylor
4th
Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan
Wednesday 3 April 2024 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Joy Robinson / Robert Carless
1st
Jan Harris / Sandra Morris

2nd
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Susan Ross / Karen Cadwell

3rd
Ian Cruickshank / Terrence Sheedy
3rd
Geoff Taylor / Mick King

4th
Annette Howe / Noel Saunders
4th
Diane Stokes / Joy Block

Thursday Evening 4 April 2024 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Frances Brown / Israel Hall
1st
Terry Sheedy / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Patricia Garner / Mick King
2nd
Ken Seaniger / Robert Carless
Friday 5 April 2024 7 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Griffin Bancroft / Joy Block
2nd
Terrence Sheedy / Geoff Cowan
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Richard Wix
4th
Joy Robinson / Geoff Taylor
5th
Debra Goodchild / Lorna Shuttlewood
6th
Eric Goodchild / Sandy Patterson
Saturday 6 April 2024 Second GNOT Qualifying 10 Table Mitchell Gold Points

Team
Team Members
1st
Conroy
Josie Crowley / Janelle Conroy / Geoff Taylor / Terrence Sheedy
2nd
Brown
Janet Hansen / Frances Brown / Alan Brown / Thelma Caruana
3rd
Darley
Monica Darley / Ken Seaniger / Nancy Martin / Margaret Lane
4th
Shuttlewood
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright / Christine Nice / Faye Wright
5th
Griffo
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill / Mick King / Patricia Garner

‍

‍

Excitement strikes as the upcoming CommBank Women’s T20I Series against New Zealand is announced to take place at the Harrup Park Great Barrier Reef Arena.

These two games of T20 between the Australian and New Zealand women will take place on September 19th and 22nd, marking a significant event, not only for cricket fans but also for the entire Mackay community.

After announcing the season line-up, Cricket Australia CEO Nick Hockley said, “This is one of the most highly anticipated summers of cricket in memory with the eyes of the cricket world focused on the extended Border-Gavaskar Trophy Series and the multiformat Women’s Ashes.”

For Mackay, hosting the T’20 women’s series holds immense importance as it showcases the region's growing prominence in the world of cricket.

CEO of Harrup Park, Adrian Young, speaks on the magnitude of this occasion, highlighting the arena's ability to host a top-tier international cricket venue since its opening last year.

The dedication and hard work invested in the venue intertwined with the pride of hosting the two matches will be an outstanding experience for both players and attendees.

“This is very significant, this is first top tier international cricket series we’ve had since the opening of the great barrier reef arena last year,” Mr Young said.

“It’s a combination of a lot of hard work that’s gone into the venue so we’re extremely excited to have the games here in September.”

The anticipation rises as cricket fans eagerly await, with the potential of driving in up to five to six thousand attendees, which is said to be a beneficial economic stimulus for the region.

Adrian highlights that these games are also beneficial for younger generations, offering young boys and specifically girls the chance to witness their heroes in action and aspire to reach similar heights in their future sporting endeavours.

“Having games like this allows young boys and girls to look up to their hero’s and put their minds to play sport at an elite level, and inspire them on an aspirational level.”

As the countdown to September begins, anticipation builds, promising two days of unforgettable cricketing action within the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

Fans are encouraged to register on Cricket Australia's digital channels for access to priority pre-sale tickets, which will be available on June 4.

‍

CommBank Women’s Ashes Test Match, Tayla Vlaeminck and Kim Garth. Image supplied

Great Barrier Reef Arena set to hold two astounding games for cricket fans in September

‍

The last match decided a closely-fought final of first-division Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures.

With the matches tied 5-all between Lexus and Jaguar, it came down to a decider between Andrew McHugh and Tim Sheehan, which Andrew won in four games.

Lexus got away to a good start, winning the first two matches in five-game marathons.

Andrew beat Vince Boeske 8, -4, -4, 10, 12 and Janice Kent got up over Tim Shehan 5, -8, 5, -6, 9.

Anne Sheridan opened Jaguar’s account with a win over Barry Patterson in the next match, but Lexus won the next three to take a stronghold 5-1 lead.

But Jaguar made a comeback from the dead to win the next four matches to level 5-all before Andrew finished off the 6-5 win with a hard-fought defeat of Tim -6, 8, 8, 8.

First division: Lexus (Andrew McHugh, Janice Kent, Barry Patterson) d Jaguar (Vince Boeske, Tim Sheehan, Anne Sheridan) 6-5.

In division 2, the Nissan team of Duncan Treloar, Simon Hogan and Will VanDeKaa scored a big 7-1 win over Isuzu (Mark Stam, George Camilleri and Steve Mathieson).

The season’s leading player George Camilleri scored Nissan’s only win over Simon Hogan.

Holden (Saisha Palod and Rohit Bansod) had a narrow 5-4 win over Fiat (Trent Day and YiLin Jiang) in division 3.

Standout matches were Saisha’s win over YiLin -6, 8, 7, -3, 7; and Trent’s defeat of Saisha 3, -9, 6, -5, 6.

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Division 1 night fixture winners were Andrew McHugh, Janice Kent and Barry Patterson. Photos: Supplied

Division 2 winners Will VanDeKaa, Duncan Treloar and Simon Hogan

Division 3 winners Rohit Bansod and Saisha Palod

‍

Last month, ahead of Easter, teams journeyed to Gargett for the Marian Mill Shield, engaging in three matches throughout the day. Mackay Club advanced to the Final at Marian Club.

Facing Northern Beaches, the team exerted a commendable effort but narrowly missed securing victory. Congratulations to all the players for their outstanding dedication.

On Saturday, April 6th, three teams will compete in the Wilmar Sugar Plane Creek Mill Shield at the Sarina Club.

Team 1 G.Luck, R.Bell, N.Hollt, R.Blanchard.
Team 2 T.Hollows, B.Paskins, E.Roberts, T.Mayfield
Team 3 A.Lovern, C.Marks, M.Coll, N.Wilson

Results:
Tuesday Triples;(22)
Winner of Winners:
Peter Nelson, Col Stevens

Winner of Losers:
A.Nayler, A.Lovern, N.Holt.
Thursday Scroungers (16)
Ric Dunn  def  Barry Paskins.
Ladies Championship Results:
K.Dunn,  R.Schatkowski  def  K.Catanzariti, V.Edwards
K.Catanzaritu won on Forfiet.

By Mike Irving

‍

Participants took part in three matches throughout the day and were advanced to the finals. Despite their loses, Mackay Bowls are ready to take on their next challenge. Image Supplied.

‍

The Mackay Contract Bridge Club Pairs has been played over the last three Wednesdays, with some interesting hands of cards being played. The winning Team – the Terrence Sheedy Team, consisted of Terrence Sheedy, Thelma Caruana, Max Holewa, Diane Holewa and Mick King.

Thelma, Terrence, Diane and Max (Mick absent)

‍

Weekly Results
Monday 25 March 2024 – 5 Table One Winner Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild
2nd
Sandy Patterson / Geoff Cowan
3rd
Monica Darley / Nancy Martin
4th
Helen Van Den Breok / Jan Harris
5th
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
6th
Terrence Sheedy / Janelle Conroy
Tuesday Evening 26 March 2024 –5 Table One Winner Green Points
1st
Sandra Morris / Diane Morgan
2nd
Eric Goodchild / Debra Goodchild
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Terrence Sheedy
4th
Shelley Lewis / Geoff Taylor
Wednesday 27 March 2024 – Mackay Teams, Week 3 of 3 - 10 Table Mitchell Red Points
1st
Terry Sheedy Team
2nd
Janet Hanson Team
3rd
Sandy Patterson Team
4th
Debra Goodchild Team
Wednesday 27 March 2024 – Mackay Teams – Final Results after 3 Weeks - Mitchell Red Points

Team
Players
1st
Terry Sheedy
Terrence Sheedy / Thelma Caruana / Max Holewa/ Diane Holewa / Mick King
2nd
Janet Hanson
Janet Hansen / Alan Brown / Frances Brown / Janelle Conroy / Noel Bugeia
3rd
Debra Goodchild
Debra Goodchild / Eric Goodchild / Ming Ting / David Ting / Antonia Tarradas / Mick King
4th
Sandy Patterson
Sandy Patterson / Geoffrey Patterson / Joy Brunette / Don Poole / Kath Poole
Thursday Evening 28 March 2024 – 3 Table One Winner
1st
Kean Seaniger / Robert Carless
2nd
Terry Sheedy / Sandy Patterson
3rd
Janine Rodgers / Janelle Conroy
4th
Mick King / Patricia Garner
Saturday 30 March 2024 10 Table Mitchell Green Points
N/S

E/W

1st
Terrence Sheedy / Geoffrey Patterson
1st
Jan Harris / Mick King
2nd
Ian Cruickshank / Mary Cruickshank
2nd
Ian Gaskell / Carol Gaskell
3rd
Janelle Conroy / Robert Carless
3rd
Diane Stokes / Annie Lynch
4th
Monica Darley / Kath Poole
4th
Griffin Bancroft / Julie O’Neill
5th
Janine Rodgers / Nancy Wix
5th
Lorna Shuttlewood / Susan Wright

‍

Mackay Road Runners hopped to it on the Easter Weekend for another Easter Sunday Burrito Bolt social 5k, 10km from Mackay’s Zambrero’s. 

Nearly thirty local runners plus Southern Queensland athletes including Anthea Ford, John Seartson and Stuart Maish joined locals in vying for the fun food-inspired prizes.
 
It was a heavy shower of rain that set runners off on their run.  Mick Scholer put his club Vice-Presidency hat to good use as the master of ceremonies giving runners course directions to follow the Cathy Freeman path alongside the Pioneer River towards the Botanic Gardens and return.  Beck Scholer was the photographer for the afternoon and Jack and Elsie Quinn were in total control of drawing the lucky random draw tickets as well as distributing the prizes to the lucky recipients.  Thanks to all other helpers on the day including Jo Hughes, Natasha Joynson and Andrew Short.
 
Alana Knezevic had a sensational 10km outing as did her fellow runners in their individual events including the Quinn family, Lisa Burns, Grant Holmstrom, Adam Knezevic, Anthea Ford,  Lauren Connor, Carmel Mahon, Simon Henderson, David Isbister, Todd Turner, Leanne Connor, Kim Saron, John Searston, Andrew Short, Michael Scholer, Greg Dawes, Natasha Joynson, Sacha Hoare, Jeff Hoare, Jo Hughes, Colin Hardy and Derek Woods.
 
This Sunday’s annual Tilse Toddle 5k, 10km will commence at 4.30pm from 24 Johnson Street, West Mackay.  The scratch start event will be a handicap points race. Non-members are most welcome to join in however, there will be a $10 casual race day fee. 

For more information, visit Mackay Road Runners online or on Facebook.

Contributed by Janelle Tilse

‍

Sponsors Zambreros’ Deb, Elsie, Pete and Jack at far left + runners and supporters were dauntingly met with a drenching at the start of the Zambrero Easter Sunday Burrito Bolt social 5k, 10k, they forged on undeterred
Mick Scholer easily sprints the event due to some not so secret altitude training
Lisa Burns and Carmel Mahon easily stride out the final few metres in the social 10km
Zambrero sponsors Peter and Jack Quinn easily complete the 5km in their goal time

‍

The North Mackay Sinkers continue preparing for a major meet with the Masters Swimming Qld State Championships providing the main focus for April. As part of the preparation more sessions have been scheduled along with several club nights to assist race preparation. The most recent night held Friday 22nd March saw members swimming chosen events with 25, 50, 100 and 200/400m events available to improve starts, turns and race pace skills for the event.

Club Night: The start of the 25m event

‍

Coach Departs: The Sinkers also bid goodbye to club coach Igor Demin after some three years as the club's coach as he heads to a new horizon in the ACT with both a Swimming Australia and Masters Swimming Australia club coach position drawing him away from tropical climates. Coach Igor introduced members to a range of innovative and challenging sessions that were always diverse in structure to help members and the club reach goals. The Sinkers wish Igor and his family all the best in their new location and role.

The final session with coach Igor was Wednesday 27th with most of the night's squad present for the photo

‍

Laps For Life Draws To A Close: The seven members participating in the Laps for Life swim and fundraising challenge have now completed the month-long event. The swimmers completed some 5,860 laps (50m pool) to record a total of 294 km for this event. Importantly the funds raised by the Sinkers was even more impressive with a total of $5,404 committed to assist youth mental health and suicide prevention. Together with the other 2 Masters clubs in Qld the grand total settled at $8,110 has been raised for the ReachOut foundation.

Easter Eggs On The Swimmer’s Menu: The Easter weekend allowed swimmers to swim outside the pool with Good Friday pool closures. Three Sinkers visited a popular Sinkers open water swim (OWS) Balnagowan location to check conditions before we enter our northern OWS season. This location is used for training as well as our annual river swim (Nov 3rd 2024) with a few Townsville, Whitsunday and Keppel Island destinations on the list of must-do events.
Saturday saw a great gathering of Sinkers that may have been eyeing the traditional after-swim social supplies of Easter eggs, hot cross buns, cakes and biscuits to accompany the eggcellent coffee at the Memorial pool.

‍

Balnagowan Good Friday
Some input for the Saturday session content prior to starting
Masters is not all swimming with social activity key to the club's popularity

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures March 26, 2024:

Division 1:

Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Leopards (Charlie Payne, Cheryl Pearson, Judy Zahn) 7-5. Judy d Peter 9, 8, -10, -7, 3.

Pumas (George Camilleri, Coral Morgan) d Tigers (Don Boettcher, John McGee) 7-2. Coral d John 8, -5, -5, 8, 7.

Lions (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Bran Marshall) d Cheetahs (Donna Abbott, Iris Grasso, Val Austin) 10-2. Bryan d Val 5, -13, -10, 8, 5.

Division 2:

Lime (Helen Ware, Fred Saliba, John Hamelink) d Teal (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Kim Challender) 8-4. Kim Challender d Helen -9, 7, 9, -9, -7.

Cyan (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor, Louise Gould) d Aqua (Judi Hicks, Gloria Vella, Josie Davis) 12-0. Louise d Gloria 5, -9. 13, 3.

Division 3:

Diamonds (Thelma Caruana, Myles Dutton) d Emeralds (Glenda Brookes, Trish Zamparuti) 6-3. Myles d Glenda 6, -8, -9, 5, 8.

Rubies (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Glenda Dutton) d Sapphires (Carmel Cristaldi, Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross) 7-5. Sharon d Darryl 9, -6, -9, 7, 10.

‍

Glenda Brookes in action in Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures. Photo: Charlie Payne

‍

In a thrilling showcase of rugby league prowess, the QCCS Mackay Cutters delivered an outstanding performance last weekend at their fortress, BB Print Stadium in Mackay. With a jam-packed schedule featuring five consecutive games, fans were treated to a day filled with exhilarating action on the field. Supported by their loyal fans and bolstered by the sponsorship of Muscle Garden, the Cutters emerged victorious across all grades, cementing their dominance over their Rocky rivals, the CQ Capras.
The headline act of the day was undoubtedly the Hostplus Cup squad, who continued their winning streak by triumphing over the Capras with a final scoreline of 26-14. Winger Josh Smith stole the show with a stellar performance, bagging two tries to propel his side to victory.
Not to be outdone, the BMD Premiership ladies staged a remarkable comeback, overcoming a 14-point deficit to emerge triumphant with a 26-14 win over the Capras. Maddison Hegarty emerged as the hero of the match, notching up a hat-trick of tries to inspire her teammates to a stunning comeback victory.
Meanwhile, the Junior Reps demonstrated their talent and potential with convincing wins across the board. The Mal Meninga Cup squad maintained their unbeaten record, dispatching the Capras with a commanding 32-8 win, while the Harvey Norman U19 girls showcased their dominance with a resounding 36-4 victory.
In the Cyril Connell Cup, the QCCS Mackay Cutters emerged victorious with an 18-10 win, capping off a perfect day for the club across all grades.
Reflecting on the previous weekend's triumphs, the Cutters celebrated the debut of ten players in the Hostplus Cup squad. Semi Valemei, Viliami Vailea, Mahe Fonua, Riley Dean, Kauri Aupouri-Puketapu, John Radel, Jamal Shibasaki, Jai Hansen, Wil Sullivan, and D'Jazirhae Pua'avase made their mark in their first appearance for the team. These newcomers made an immediate impact, contributing to the team's success on the field. Their debut was marked by a thrilling win over the Sunshine Coast Falcons the weekend prior, where the Cutters showcased their depth and talent, securing victory with a remarkable performance.
After a bye in week one, this makes the Cutters two-from-two after three rounds of the Hostplus Cup.
As the Hostplus Cup takes a break for the Easter long weekend, anticipation mounts for their return to action on April 6th for Round 4.

‍

10 players made their debut in the QCCS Mackay Cutters’ opening game against the Falcons. The team is now two-from-two after a dominant win last weekend against the CQ Capras
Maddison Hegarty emerged as the hero of the match in the BMD Premiership, notching up a hat-trick of tries for the Cutters

‍

North Queensland Cowboys Stage Epic Comeback Over Dragons

‍

In a thrilling encounter at Netstrata Jubilee Oval, the North Queensland Cowboys orchestrated a stunning comeback to maintain their best start to a season in 17 years, clinching a commanding 46-24 victory over the Dragons.
Facing an early deficit of 18-4, the Cowboys showcased their resilience and grit, bouncing back to score seven unanswered tries. This remarkable achievement marks the first time since 2006 that North Queensland has secured three consecutive wins at the start of a season.
The Cowboys' resurgence was ignited by winger Murray Taulangi, who breached the try line in the sixth minute following a precise pass from fullback Scott Drinkwater. Building on this momentum, North Queensland added three more tries before halftime, courtesy of hooker Reece Robson and second-rower Griffin Neame.
Trailing by four points at halftime, the Cowboys continued their onslaught in the second half, capitalising on opportunities generated by their dynamic attacking play. Drinkwater and Chad Townsend orchestrated the charge, with tries from Holmes and Townsend sealing the victory.
Despite a late consolation try from Zac Lomax for the Dragons, it was not enough to derail the Cowboys' momentum. With a final score of 46-24 in their favour, North Queensland emerged triumphant, underlining their credentials as formidable contenders in the NRL.

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixtures March 19, 2024:

Division 1:
(Final) Lexus (Andrew McHugh, Janice Kent and Barry Patterson) won 6-5 over Jaguar (Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan and Vince Boeske). Andrew d Vince 8, -8, -4, 10, 11.
Audi (Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake, Lily Boland) d BMW (Ishan Rana, Emma Widdup, Allan Edwards) 7-4. Lily d Allan -9, 10, -6, 6, 6.  

Division 2:
Mazda (Mark Sleeman, Niro) d Kia (Peter Goodson, Matt West) 5-4. Matt d Niro 7, 6, -10, -5, 9. Nissan (Will VanDeKaa, Duncan Treloar, Simon Hogan) d Isuzu (George Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, Judy Zahn) 9-2. Will d Steve -6, -11, 9, 6, 9. Honda (Jye Callander, Leo Gilbert, Andrea Nicholson) d Hyuandi (Donna Abbott, Noreen Fredericksen) 9-2. Leo d Donna -6, 8, -7, 7, 14.

Division 3:
Fiat (Aarnav Reelh, Trent Day, YiLin Kiang) d Ford (Misha Palod, Tiffany Camilleri, Ollie Hamelink) 8-2. Trent d Tiffany 5, -6, -6, 8, 13.  Holden (Saisha Palod, Rohit Bansod, Anaya Reelh) d Alfa (Craig VanDeKaa, Kade Wright, Nehmat Dhaliwal) 6-5. Rohit d Kade -9, -9, 10, 4, 10.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures March 19, 2024:

Division 1:
Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Cheetahs (Donna Abbott, Iris Grasso, Val Austin) 9-2. Peter d Donna -8, 7, 8, -11, 6. Tigers (Andrea Nicholson, Noreen Fredericksen, John McGee) d Leopards (Charlie Payne, Steve Mathieson, Judy Zahn) 8-4. John d Charlie 8, -6, 12, -10, 9. Lions (Tony Bowman, Josie Davis, Bryan Marshall) d Pumas (George Camilleri, Coral Morgan) 6-5. Tony d George -9, 8, 5, 4.

Division 2:
Cyan (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor, Louise Gould) d Lime (Helen Ware, Fred Saliba, John Hamelink) 9-3. Helen d Louise 8, -8, -7, 9, 6. Aqua (Judi Hicks, Gloria Vella, Gerry Synnott) drew Teal (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Kim Challender) 6-all. Judi d Ken -9, 5, -9, 9, 9.

Division 3:
Diamonds (Frank Caruana, Thelma Caruana, Charyl Pearson) drew Sapphires (Pam Keune,  Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross) 6-all. Frank d Pam -7, 7, -11, 10, 7.  Emeralds (Ian Dodds, Glenda Brookes, Trish Zamparuti) d Rubies (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Carmel Cristaldi) 7-5. Allison d Glenda -7, -8, 10, 12, 8.

‍

Lily Boland in action in Mackay Table Tennis fixtures. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

‍

Despite the rainy weather conditions, the Marian Ladies Bowls Club managed to hold their annual Harvest Triples on March 13, 2024.  This was well attended with eight rinks used with 48 ladies participating in a great day of bowls.

Winners on the day were:
First place -  J Insch, G Meng, M Stockton
Second place - J Caban, C Savage. R Schatkowski
Third place - L Jenner, M Mayfield, D McNamara

Contributed By Lyn Jackson

‍

1st Place winners
2nd Place winners
3rd Place winners

Photo supplied

‍

The 2024 NBL1 North Season Launch Event held at Queensland Parliament House in Brisbane provided an insightful preview into the upcoming basketball season. Local State Government MPs, Julieanne Gilbert and Amanda Camm, lent their support to the event, emphasising Mackay’s backing for our teams.
The gathering offered a glimpse into the camaraderie among players and supporters, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. With Round 1 scheduled to commence on April 12, the McDonald’s Mackay Meteorettes and Meteors are gearing up to face off against rivals, the Townsville Flames and Heat. Fans can anticipate a compelling showdown as the teams vie for early dominance in the league.
Season tickets are still available, visit Mackay Basketball’s Facebook page to Back the Mack!

Photos supplied: Mackay Basketball

‍

Approximately thirty runners tackled the treacherous Cape Hillsborough Turtle Trail in cool conditions at 7am last weekend.  Front markers, Ashley Miles and Matt Graves put in a huge first half performance to lead the field by some margin in the ten-kilometre, with Matt being the eventual winner, hitting the tape two minutes ahead of Ashley.
 
First female in the ten-kilometre, Jose Short revelled in the tough conditions followed by Emma Johnson and Carmel Mahon. Third placed male, Derek Woods was in fine form as he led his younger counterparts, Robin Stinson, Mitchell Evetts, Jim Ogilvie, Alan Zamparutti, Wayne Huntley and Scott McIntosh across the finish line.  Five-kilometre veteran runner, Len Haworth showed sensational class as he hit the final hundred metres in just three minutes clear of second and first female Melissa Harris, Kim Saron and Katrina Ogilvie.  Simon Henderson held off Andrew Wallace, Mark McFadzen, Daniel Stampa and Andrew Short for the silver medal. Mark McFadzen performed extremely well in only one of a few come-back runs this year, despite losing the whole sole of his shoe in the process. 
   
Congratulations to all runners who competed in the Barrier Reef Arena Gift sprint events and thank you to Harrup Park for staging a classy and unique event.

This weekend’s Easter Sunday afternoon social run will be held from our very supportive sponsor, Zambreros.  The annual event has been on the calendar for several years now, with Management and Staff always making us feel very welcome.  There will be random draw prizes generously donated from Zambreros, Peter Quinn. The five-kilometre & ten-kilometre social event will be followed by random draw presentations and dinner and drinks for purchase.  Bring your family and friends, it’s always a great afternoon, especially after a morning of Easter Bunny treats.
 
Contributed by Janelle Tilse

‍

David Isbister, Alan Zamparutti, Jose Short, Kim Saron and Simon Henderson prepare for their chosen event ie David Isbister ready with the BBQ tongs. Photo credit: Janelle Tilse
Jose Short scrambled through the tough terrain to tackle the beach section of the 10km
Wayne Huntley displayed great stamina as he ran an awesome 10km trail run in his first season with the Club

‍

The Mackay Cutters have kicked off their 2024 Hostplus Cup season with an emphatic win on the road against the Sunshine Coast Falcons.

The Falcons were flying high after a round one win over Brisbane Tigers but the Cutters, coming off a bye in the opening round, proved too strong at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Saturday.

It was an error from Falcons winger and former Cutter Flynn Camilleri that led to the visitors’ opening try, with opposing winger Semi Valemei crossing in the sixth minute to open the Cutters’ account.

Jamal Shibasaki scored 20 minutes later before the Falcons hit back in the 29th minute with a try to Camilleri, seeing the teams hit the sheds at half time with the Cutters leading the Falcons 12-4.

The home side narrowed the deficit in the 50th minute when Camilleri crossed for his second try of the evening before the Cutters finished things off with three unanswered tries to Rayden Burns in the 56th minute, Kauri Aupouri-Puketapu in 60th and a second to Shibasaki in the 67th.

Riley Dean slotted four conversions and one penalty goal to see the final score 30-10 in favour of the Cutters.

Earlier in the day, the BMD Premiership Cutters notched their second win of the season, defeating the Falcons 26-18.

A try to the home side in the opening minute did little to deter the Cutters, with first half tries to Kayla Shepherd, Tiana Raftstrand-Smith and Sareka Mooka seeing the visitors with a narrow 14-12 lead at half time.

Second half tries to Krystal Blackwell and Bree Chester saw the Mackay side run away with it in the end, with three conversions helping the Cutters to a 26-18 victory.

The Cutters will look to extend their undefeated start to the season when the take on the Capras at home this weekend.

Meanwhile, the Mal Meninga Cup, Harvey Norman U19s and Cyril Connell Cup squads travelled to Cairns to take on the Northern Pride at Barlow Park.

The Mal Meninga Cup side finished strong to run away with a narrow 18-14 victory while the Harvey Norman U19s girls cruised to a 34-10 win and the Cyril Connell Cup side took down the Pride 46-10.

All five sides will take to BB Print Stadium this weekend to take on the Central Queensland Capras on Saturday, March 23.

‍

Caption: Photo credit: Mitchell Sansby

‍

Masters Swimming is for all adults over the age of eighteen. There are no age limits to be a member of Masters Swimming Queensland (MSQ). In fact, many members started their adult swimming in masters several decades ago and continue to enjoy the many benefits of swimming and club life.

Masters Swimming Australia aims to provide an environment that encourages all adults, at a club, state and national level, regardless of ability, to swim regularly or compete to promote fitness and improve their general wellbeing.

The North Mackay Sinkers Masters Swimming Club has been going strong for over 30 years providing training sessions, pool and open water swimming events, travel opportunities as well as social events.

A number of non-competitive programs are available for all members and include the Endurance 1000, Vorgee Million Metres, Lane Warriors and the MSX program. All these programs are generally self-paced and keep the motivation levels up.

All are welcome to come and try group sessions.

Mondays: Memorial Swim Centre, Milton St. Mackay, be there at 5.30pm for a 5.45pm start.

Wednesdays: North Mackay State High School, Valley St. North Mackay, be there at 5.30pm for a 5.45pm start. This is a coached session led by the club’s coach, until April 10th

Saturdays: Memorial Swim Centre, Milton St. Mackay, starting at 8am to 9am followed by a social on site for members to mingle.

For further information, visit North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club, email nthmkysinkers@gmail.com or phone 0413 805 156

‍

Contributed by Dan Stampa

‍

North Mackay Sinkers - Masters Swimming Club members cooling off in the pool across three different classes. Photos supplied

‍

Over this weekend, Toby Tule has been competing at the Queensland Athletics State Championships and won a silver medal in the Steeplechase and an 11-second PB on Thursday night in the 1500-metre to place 4th. He also came 4th in the 800-metre with a 2-second PB.

Next weekend, he will compete back in Brisbane at his last Little Athletics Championships, which are in the 800-metre and the 1500-metre.

In April, Toby will be attending the 2024 Chemist Warehouse Australian Athletics Championships, which are from the 15th to the 19th of April 2024. He qualified for the 1500-metre, Steeplechase, and 3000-metre last year at the NQ Championships.

James took home a bronze medal in the U20 Discus

‍

By James Galea

‍

Photo Credit: Jo Harlow Photography

Caption: Toby competing at the Queensland Athletics State Championships

‍

Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club’s U15 competitors Nate McKinnon and Zara Richardson recently travelled to Broadbeach on the Gold Coast to compete in the State Rescue Championships. The event involves lifesavers being assessed on their surf sports fitness, patient assessment and CPR skills and a detailed theory paper, at a state level.

Nate McKinnon took out 1st place, with Zara Richardson achieving a 4th place.  

“The club is extremely proud of Nate & Zara for representing Mackay and showing that our lifesaving skills are some of the best in the state,” said Josh Grant, Director of Surf Sports.

“They have been training for months, under experienced coaches to achieve this result.

“It is very reassuring for the club and community to have our youth not only take an interest in surf lifesaving but also excel in this at an elite level.  

“Both Nate and Zara will be heading off to the Australian titles, with Nate being the current national champion in Surf Rescue.  

“The whole club is behind them and wish them the best of luck.”

‍

By Josh Grant

‍

Photos Supplied

Caption 1: Nate McKinnon receiving his Gold State Recuse Championships medal.

Caption 2: Nate & Zara after taking out the qualifying event to get into States, hosted at Alva Beach, Ayr.

Caption 3: Nate & Zara with club stalwart & experienced official Reg Butler after taking them through their final training and assessment session.

Caption 4: Club pride - Nate displays his Mackay SLSC noddy cap and state rescue championships gold medal.

Caption 5: Nate completing his CPR skills assessment on a mannequin.

‍

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday night fixture results March 12, 2024:

Division 1:

Ferrari (Geoff Denman, Goncalo Serra, Ishan Rana) d Lexus (Andrew McHugh, Janice Kent, Barry Patterson. Geoff d Barry -12, 8, 2, -11, 9.

Mercedes (Steven Whiting, Graham Brake, Graeme Walker) d BMW (Ian McKay, Allan Edwards) 9-2. Allan d Graeme -8, 12, -6, 9, 9.

Jaguar (Tim Shehan, Anne Sheridan, Vince Boeske) d Audi (Jason Hodda, Mick Ruhl, Lee Brake) 7-4. Tim d Lee 3, -1, -9, 9, 4.

Division 2:

Mazda (Mark Sleeman, Niro) d Hyuandi (Donna Abbott, Noreen Fredericksen) 6-3. Mark d Donna 9, 5, -8, 10.

Nissan (Will VanDeKaa, Duncan Treloar, Simon Hogan) d Kia (Doug Dungavell, Peter Goodson, Matt West) 7-4. Duncan d Matt -7, 5, 6, -7, 13.

Isuzu (George Camilleri, Steve Mathieson, Mark Stam) d Honda (Jye Callander, Leo Gilbert, Andrea Nicholson) 6-5. Andrea d George 2, 9, -6, -6, 10.

Division 3:

Ford (Misha Palod, Ollie Hamelink) d Alfa (Craig VanDeKaa, Kade Wright, Nehmat Dhaliwal) 6-5. Craig d Ollie 13, -10, 9, -5, 9.

Fiat (Aarnav Reelh, Trent Day, YiLin Jiang) d Holden (Saisha Palod, Rohit Bansod, Anaya Reelh) 6-5. Saisha d Aarnav -8, 7, 11, -5, 7.

Mackay Table Tennis Tuesday morning fixtures March 12, 2024:

Division 1:

Pumas (George Camilleri, Coral Morgan) d Leopards (Steve Mathieson, Judy Zahn) 5-4. Coral d Judy 9, -10, -7, 8, 8.

Cheetahs (Donna Abbott, Doug Dungavell, Val Austin) drew Tigers (Andrea Nicholson, Noreen Fredericksen, John McGee) 6-all. Doug d Noreen 8, -7, -8, 12, 7.

Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Lions (Don Boettcher, Pam Joyce, Bryan Marshall) 9-3. Kev d Bryan 10, 6, -11, -9, 9.

Division 2:

Cyan (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor, Louise Gould) d Teal (Ken Best, Kim Challender) 8-4. Robyn d Kim 8, 10, -4, -9, 10.

Lime (Helen Ware, Fred Saliba, John Hamelink) d Aqua (Iris Grasso, Gloria Vella, Gerry Synnott) 8-4. John d Iris -8, 4, 7, -7, 8.

Division 3:

Sapphires (Pam Keune, Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross) d Emeralds (Ian Dodds, Glenda Brookes, Trish Zamparuti) 9-3. Madge d Ian -6, -6, 3, 6, 11.

Diamonds (Frank Caruana, Bill Hey, Thelma Caruana) d Rubies (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Carmel Crishaldi) 10-2. Sharon d Bill 2, -6, -5, 9, 5.

‍

Photo Credit: Charlie Payne

Saisha Palod in action in Tuesday night fixtures

‍

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 QCCS Mackay Cutters kicked off Round 1 of the BMD Premiership on their home turf, facing off against the Tweed Seagulls in a thrilling encounter. Additionally, the Junior Reps battled it out against the Townsville Blackhawks in Round 5 of their competition, adding to the excitement of the day's events. The Hostplus squad had a bye.

BB Print Stadium played host to a total of four exhilarating matches, with two women's games and two men's games showcasing the talent and dedication of players from both teams. The Mackay teams put on a dominant show, clinching victory in three of four games. The results of the matches were as follows:

Cyril Connell Cup: Mackay 18, Townsville 22

Harvey Norman U19s girls: Mackay 16, Townsville 12

Mal Meninga Cup squad: Mackay 46, Townsville 10

BMD Premiership women: Mackay 28, Townsville 10

The weekend's fixtures not only demonstrated the skill and determination of the players but also highlighted the growing prominence of women's rugby league in the region. With each game fiercely contested, the Mackay Cutters emerged victorious in the women's games, further solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the league.

‍

Action from the Harvey Norman U19 and BMD Premiership games. Photo credit: Mackay Cutters

‍

The 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 was filled with plenty of smiles as well as Cath’s well known scones in which made for a very enjoyable day for everyone!

As bowlers from across the Mackay District gathered together it was great to see lots of friendly faces as attendees conversated with both old and new acquaintances.

A full green of lady bowlers enjoyed another great day of bowling for the ‘Overs and Unders’ Carnival on the 4th of March. Morning and afternoon tea kept them busy throught the day whilst the two games of eighteen ends commenced.

The team at Mackay City Ladies Bowls Club would like to thank all members who assisted in the organising and running of the three events, making for a pleasant day filled with enjoyment and camaraderie.

‍

Caption 1: Presidents Judy Petersen and Margot Stanley enjoying the occasion

Caption 2: Special visitor from Townsville Karen Emery and games controller Flo Ruggeri

Caption 3: Janette Dark and Jan Jamieson just having fun

Caption 4: Mary Burston, Nola Hundy, Beth Dawes and Robyn Large tucking into Cath’s well known scones. Photos supplied by Shirley Sturgeon

‍

Club 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 going to be a tough and tight tussle from start to finish with many searching for position early.

Front runners, Toby Tule, Liam Mumford, Oliver Rule, Angus Jacobs, Nick Rewald, Hamish Donnollan, Paul MacKenzie, Jared Mackie, Luke Leven and George Hannaford were all definitely in line for a podium finish, however as runners completed the final Queens Park  loop, Toby was victorious with Liam only 8 seconds in deficit  taking the cash and maximum club championship points in the open and their age category.  

Ashlee Scott sprinted the 3km snatching gold from Alana Knesevic by ten seconds to also score the cash and chocolates.  Junior runner, Lily Leven ran a spectacular race to claim bronze and major junior club championship points.

Excellent performances also came from many new runners as well as existing members, Martin Lambert, Shane Donnollan, Natalie Lorraway, Jenny White, Al Lorraway, Leanne Connor, Natasha Joynson, Em Hayles, Mel Esau, Kim Saron, Judy Zahn, Carmel Mahon, Jan Smith, Len Haworth, Stuart Sprott, Mark McFadzen, Tim Dalton, Andrew Wallace, David Isbister, Scott McIntosh, Michael Feenaghty, Thomas Wendt and Ondiene Wendt.

Many thanks to Construct Health Operations Manager, Thomas Wendt for co-ordinating the event with the club and supporting the community by also being involved in the annual BMA Mackay Marina Run.

This Sunday’s 5k/12km handicap points scratch start event commences 6.30am from 25 Duncan Street, West Mackay. 

All runners must be registered in with the timekeeper by 6.20am at the very latest for a 6.30am sharp start. Any new runners are most welcome to join in, however, please register online by 5pm Friday at the latest so that a member number can be issued. 

For more information on results, registration, events or merchandise, visit Mackay Road Runners on Facebook or online.

‍

Contributed By Janelle Tilse

‍

Caption 5292 - Construct Health Team (on Left) Sarah Schofield, Nick Rewald, Alex Leslie, Thomas Wendt (Ondine Wendt in front) with Mackay Road Runners Construct Health 3km Club Championship gold and silver medallists – Alana Knezevic(2nd), Ashlee Scott (1st), Toby Rule (1st), Liam Mumford (2nd).

Caption 5274 – Natasha Joynson, Kim Saron and Jo Hughes enjoy the Construct Health 3km Club Championship event where over 70 runners took part.

Caption 5124 – Colin Hardy thanks volunteer timekeepers, Arthur Dick (seated) and Julie Whibley (with umbrella).

Caption 5152 – Mel Esau and Tahnie Malagueno contemplate the 3km race course briefing instructions.

Caption 5231 – Andrew Wallace and Jenny White relieved to cross the fast and furious 3km Construct Health Club Championship finish line.

‍

Mackay 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, Steve Mathieson) d Kia (Brent Rodgers, Peter Goodson, Matt West) 6-5. Matt d Steve -6, 8, 10, 10.

Nissan (Will VanDeKaa, Duncan Treloar, Simon Hogan) d Hyuandi (Donna Abbott, Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen) 8-3. Duncan d Donna -8, 8, -3, 10, 10.

Honda (Jye Callander, Leo Gilbert, Andrea Nicholson) d Mazda (Mark Sleeman, Niro, Judy Zahn) 8-3. Leo/Andrea d Judy/Niro -6, 10, 4, -8, 4.

Division 3:

Fiat (Trent Day, YiLin Jiang, Aarnav Reelh) d Alfa (Craig VanDeKaa, Kade Wright, Nehmat Dhaliwal) 11-0. YiLin d Nehmat 9, -7, -10, 9, 6.

Holden (Saisha Palod, Rohit Bansod, Anaya Reelh) d Ford (Ollie Hamelink, Tiffany Camilleri) 7-3. Ollie d Anaya -9, -7, 8, 5, 9.

Tuesday morning table tennis fixtures March 5, 2024:

Division 1:

Cheetahs (Donna Abbott, Val Austin) d Leopards (Steve Mathieson, Judy Zahn) 6-4. Val d Judy 10, -9, 11, -8, 9.

Jaguar (Branko Vucurovic, Peter Goodson, Kevin Abbott) d Pumas (George Camilleri, Don Boettcher, Coral Morgan) 10-2. Branko d George -2, 8, 10, 19.

Lions (Tony Bowman, Pam Joyce, Bryan Marshall) d Tigers (Delma Knight, Noreen Fredericksen, John McGee) 8-4. Bryan d John -8, 9, 7, -4, 14.

Division 2:

Teal (Ken Best, Kim Daffy, Kim Challender) drew Lime (Helen Ware, Fred Saliba, Charles Hamlett) 6-all. Kim d Charles 5, 8, -7, -6, 14.

Cyan (Robyn Bushell, Marie Taylor, Louise Gould) d Aqua (Gloria Vella, Gerry Synnott) 12-0. Robyn d Gerry 9, -9, 0, -10, 9.

Division 3:

Diamonds (Frank Caruana, Bill Hey, Myles Dutton) d Emeralds (Ian Dodds, Carmel Cristaldi, Myles Dutton) 8-4. Ian d Frank -7, 7, 3, -10, 8.

Sapphires (Thelma Caruana, Madge Saunders, Darryl Ross) d Rubies (Sharon Muller, Allison Day, Glenda Dutton) 8-4. Sharon d Madge -8, 5, -10, 5, 9.

‍

Sharon Muller in action in Tuesday morning table tennis. Photo: Charlie Payne

‍

Weekly 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.

Cutters Care: Strengthening Minds And Bodies

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

‍

IT'S COMPETITION TIME!

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

‍

WEEKLY RESULTS

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.

Photos supplied: Mackay parkrun

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

Sarina's Bull Riding Extravaganza

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