Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym is set for a major upgrade, with new funding to deliver safer equipment and expand opportunities for young people across the Hinchinbrook Shire. Photo source: Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym

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Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre’s Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym will soon welcome a major upgrade, following a significant funding boost through the Queensland Government’s Gambling Community Benefit Fund.

Approximately $34,800 has been awarded to the youth-focused facilities as part of the latest funding round, joining nearly 800 community organisations statewide to share in a $19.5 million investment aimed at strengthening grassroots initiatives and supporting local communities.

Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym exists as far more than just a sporting facility and provides a pathway for young people to build resilience, develop life skills and create brighter futures. Over the years, participants have progressed to state and national titles, professional careers and meaningful employment, highlighting the lasting impact of the program within the community.

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Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym will use the funding to upgrade essential equipment and resources, including safer, more modern training gear to support growing participation and ensure a high standard of safety and engagement for young people.

Dean Poppi, Boxing Traner at Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym said the funding could not have come at a better time, with the upgraded equipment set to strengthen the facility’s mission of supporting young people across the Hinchinbrook Shire in a safe, inclusive and engaging environment.

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“Our community’s facing increasing challenges around youth activity, disengagement, and disadvantage,” said Mr Poppi.

“The funding will make a significant difference as improved equipment will enhance training quality, boost confidence, and increase participation.”

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In terms of broader community impact, Mr Poppi said the investment would help drive stronger youth engagement and promote healthier, more active lifestyles. It would also strengthen community connection by creating a positive, supportive space where young people can develop a genuine sense of belonging and purpose.

Like many regional organisations, Mr Poppi said Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym has been navigating growing demand with limited resources, pointing to rising costs, financial pressures across the Hinchinbrook Shire and ageing equipment as key challenges impacting its ability to sustain and expand services.

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“Funding like this is incredibly important for regional groups and it’ll allows Kingdom Boxing to continue to maintain safe facilities and respond to the real and growing needs of our community,” he said.

“Without this support, many young people would lose access to vital programs that provide both physical and social benefits.”

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Behind the scenes, support from the Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre has played a key role in securing funding opportunities for local organisations, and through a dedicated Grants Officer, funded by Hinchinbrook Shire Council, community groups like Kingdom Boxing Youth Development Gym are able to access funding that may otherwise be out of reach.

“Receiving this funding is incredibly meaningful. It’s a recognition of the work being done in the community and the positive impact we’re having on young people’s lives,” added Mr Poppi.

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“Personally, it’s rewarding to know that the effort put into supporting youth is being acknowledged and backed.  It also brings a sense of reassurance that we can continue to provide opportunities, guidance, and a safe space for young people to grow and succeed.”

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Stock image from Pexels

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The May long weekend will see the Ingham Squash Courts become a hive of activity as players from across North Queensland compete in the Ingham Squash Club’s Northern Region Silver Junior Squash Tournament to be held over the Saturday and Sunday (2^nd & 3^rd) of the May weekend. This tournament is the final event in a 4-tournament series and will give players their last opportunity for selection in the Northern Region Redbacks team to compete at the Queensland Junior Squash Championships, which will be held during the June school holiday on the Gold Coast.

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In conjunction with the tournament, the Ingham Squash Club will celebrate the official opening of the newly air-conditioned courts with the attendance of the Honourable Member for Hinchinbrook, Mr Wayde Chiesa, and the Hinchinbrook Shire Council Mayor, Mr Ramon Jayo.  

The Ingham Squash Club was successful in obtaining a Queensland Government grant from the Gambling Community Benefit Fund for $90,000 to provide solar panels and air-conditioning of the squash courts and upgrading of light fixtures. The club is very honoured to have Mr Chiesa available to officially view the upgrades provided by that grant and to officially open the centre on behalf of the state government.  

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The Squash Club has also been successful in obtaining from the Hinchinbrook Shire Council a local government Community Support Grant to assist with the running of the Junior Squash Tournament over the weekend, and this event will be officially opened by HSC Mayor, Mr Jayo. The club has received several grants over the past years to help with the running of Junior and Masters squash tournaments at the centre and the club is appreciative to have the Mayor attend the official opening.

The official opening will take place at 9:30am, May 2, at the Ingham Squash Courts on McIllwraith Street. Members of the public are invited to attend and to stay and watch the top North Queensland junior squash players compete for selection in the Northern Redbacks Squash team.

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Contributed with thanks by Maureen Lahtinen, President of the Ingham Squash Club

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Residents across the region are being invited to reset, refocus and recharge at a free two-day workshop with Allan Parker, OAM, coming to Collinsville this May.

Hosted by NQ Dry Tropics, the Regional Brain Reset workshop will be held on Friday 8 and Saturday 9 May at the Opal Ridge Motel Conference Room. The event is designed to equip attendees with practical tools to better manage pressure, improve communication and maintain mental resilience—both on-farm and in everyday life.

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Across the two days, participants will learn how to reset their thinking using five simple steps aimed at cutting through noise, handling pressure more effectively and reading people more clearly. The workshop will also introduce three practical skills to help people talk about pressure early, without situations escalating.

Attendees can also expect to gain straightforward habits to support long-term mental wellbeing, alongside strategies to stay level-headed when things don’t go to plan and keep conversations on track when it matters most.

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The workshop forms part of the Landholders Driving Change (LDC2) project, funded by the Queensland Government through the Queensland Reef Water Quality Program. The initiative focuses on supporting landholders and regional communities with practical skills and knowledge that extend beyond the paddock.

With places limited, locals are encouraged to secure their spot early and take advantage of this opportunity to build resilience, strengthen communication skills and invest in their mental wellbeing.

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The Collinsville workshop is one of a series of events aimed at supporting regional Queenslanders, providing tools that can make a real difference both professionally and personally.

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To find out more, visit www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1564970?utm_content=416225772&utm_medium=social&utm_source=linkedin&hss_channel=lcp-87151812‍

What: Regional Brain Reset Workshop

When: Friday 8 and Saturday 9 May

Where: Opal Ridge Motel Conference Room, Collinsville

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May marks Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness, encourage conversations, and take meaningful steps toward creating safer homes and communities for everyone.

Domestic and family violence can impact people of all ages, backgrounds and circumstances. It often goes unseen, and many individuals and families experience it in silence. This month is an opportunity to shine a light on the issue, reduce stigma, and remind our community that help is available.

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In the Hinchinbrook Shire, we are committed to fostering a community where people feel safe, valued and empowered to seek assistance when they need it.

At Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre, we work alongside individuals and families who may be experiencing or have been impacted by domestic and family violence. We offer a range of services designed to meet people where they are, recognising that every person’s experience is different.

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Through a compassionate, person-centred approach, the Centre assists individuals to connect with appropriate services, counselling support, and guidance to safely navigate their circumstances. We offer support for adults, including court assistance for victim-survivors, recognising that both emotional recovery and navigating legal processes can be complex. Our approach is flexible and delivered through centre-based sessions or outreach within the community.

Our aim is to create safe, welcoming environments where people can build confidence, develop coping strategies, and begin to heal from their experiences.

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Domestic and family violence prevention is not only about responding to crisis - it is also about education, early intervention, and building strong, respectful relationships within our community. By working together, we can create environments where people feel safe, heard, and respected.

In recognition of Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month this May, our Domestic Violence team will be hosting the Ingham Community Legal Service Expo. This initiative aims to raise awareness, provide accessible information, and strengthen community understanding around domestic and family violence.

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The Expo will offer an opportunity for community members to learn more about the supports available at the Hub, as well as connect with a range of community legal organisations working together to support safety, wellbeing, and justice within the Hinchinbrook region.

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If you or someone you know may benefit from support, we encourage you to reach out. Taking the first step can feel difficult, but you do not have to do it alone.

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Please contact Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre on 4776 1822 or email communitysupport@hcsc.org.au for more information.

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For Those Seeking Support, There Are A Number Of Free And Confidential Services Available

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1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732

Lifeline – 13 11 14

DVConnect Womensline – 1800 811 811

Women’s Legal Service QLD – 1800 957 957

Relationships Australia – 1300 364 277

Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre – 4776 1822

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If you are in immediate danger, please call 000.

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To anyone experiencing domestic or family violence - you are not alone, and you deserve to feel safe, respected and supported. Help is available, and there are people who will walk alongside you when you’re ready.

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Photo credit: Palm Creek & Cardwell Parkrun Facebook pages

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Last Saturday was another morning for my turn at Directing on the Palm Creek course and I was delightfully surprised with the huge crowd that piled in behind the starting line. In the last five minutes before 7 o'clock, about 20 people filed in to bolster the groups’ size.

It was a lively one, with sibling duo Dallas and Lacey taking 1^st and 2^nd place – only six seconds apart – and hitting personal bests!

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With ANZAC Day on next Saturday, 25 April, Cardwell Parkrun will not be operating. Palm Creek is open to the possibility of an ANZAC Day run, and will make an announcement on the subject closer to the weekend whether they will be going ahead.

Don’t miss out on your local Parkrun news, follow both the Cardwell & Palm Creek Parkrun Facebook pages for photos and course updates!

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Parkrun Results: 18th April 2026
Palm Creek #121 – 46 participants
Fastest time: Dallas Jayasuria (20:51)
Final finisher: Kira Turner (52:02)
PBs: Dallas Jayasuria (20:51), Lacey Jayasuria (20:57), Todd Cockburn (27:32), Judah Niam (32:48), Aaliyah Bulmer (33:39), Eliza Carr (36:35), Danielle Gibson (39:01)
First-timers: 6 welcomed
Volunteers: V Velton, Simon Niam, Kirra Niam, Donna Marbelli, Kira Turner, Steven Veltmeyer

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Cardwell #383 – 20 participants
Fastest time: Luke Tamblyn (22:28)
Final finisher: Matthew Gardiner (1:01:04)
PBs: Roz Bahnisch (51:11), Bruce Boland (38:16), Sue Patch (52:37), Leila Sadler (52:45)
Volunteers: Kellie Ball, Will Ritchie, Jan Ferguson, Terry Curtin, Matthew Gardiner, Jake Ball, Kerry Snell

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Image sourced from Pexels

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An Industry Breakfast presented by Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc. in accordance with Queensland Small Business Month.

Scan the QR code to book tickets!

For more information https://www.business.qld.gov.au/ or contact the Hinchinbrook Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism Inc.

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/building-momentum-in-challenging-environments-industry-breakfast-tickets-1987106548177?aff=oddtdtcreator
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WHEN: Friday, 15 May 2026, 6:45am-8:30am
WHERE: The Powerhouse, 40 McIlwraith Street, Ingham
RSVP: 5:00pm, Monday 11 May 2026

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Locals can get hands-on with citizen science, to help monitor waterways, reefs, and coastal habitats to protect the Dry Tropics’ environment. Photo source: Dry Tropics Healthy Waters

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April marks Citizen Science Month, and the Healthy Waters Partnership for the Dry Tropics is inviting everyone to get involved in protecting the region’s rivers, creeks, coasts, and the Great Barrier Reef.

Citizen science empowers community members to gather data that supports research and informs environmental management. From photographing wildlife to collecting rubbish or monitoring waterways, there are opportunities for people of all ages and skill levels to make a tangible impact.

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Locals can join initiatives like iNaturalist, logging flora and fauna sightings to contribute to global biodiversity research, or participate in Creekwatch, monitoring river health in the Ross and Black basins. Volunteers track waterbugs, fish populations, and water quality, helping guide local conservation efforts.

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Beach and reef enthusiasts can take part in ReefClean events or Reef Check Australia, diving or collecting litter to monitor reef and shoreline health. On Magnetic Island, the CoastSnap and Coastal Stewardship Project invite citizen scientists to document shoreline changes, survey mangroves and saltmarshes, and support habitat restoration.

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“The data collected by volunteers feeds directly into the annual Waterways Report Card, helping track ecosystem health and inform action,” said the Healthy Waters Partnership.

Whether you’re a diver, a nature lover, or simply curious, there’s a citizen science opportunity to match your interests. By participating, locals not only contribute valuable research but also gain skills, connect with the community, and help safeguard the Dry Tropics’ waterways and coastal environments for the future.

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Visit the Healthy Waters Partnership website via www.drytropicshealthywaters.org or follow their social media accounts to access more information or how to join an event!

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Under 19s having a pep talk. Photo supplied

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The Herbert River Crushers started their 2026 season with 3 from 3 wins over Norths in Townsville on Saturday night. A-Grade won 14 - 6, Reserve Grade won 18 - 4 while the Under 19s had earlier gotten the club's season off to a great start winning 22 - 16.

The A-Grade game was a tight tussle in the first half with Norths scoring the first try at the 30 minute mark, before the Crushers new signing winger Steven “Junior” Dau scored a try just before halftime.  The game continued to be a tight tussle until second-rower William Trethaway scored to take the lead 8 – 6 with 30 minutes to go, before Dau crossed for his double with less than 4 minutes and captain Dylan Gaggiano converted to seal the tight fought win for the Crushers 14 - 6.  Besides a couple of Crushers legends strapping on the boots special mention was made of forwards Matty Spina (who played 80 minutes) and Rhys Woods who pulled on the jersey on a weekend off.

The Reserve Grade side tries included centre Riley Dickson, fullback Jerramaine Nean and five-eigth Tremayne Priestley while halfback Keith Kyle kicked 1 conversion to seal the largest win for the club on the evening 18 - 4.

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Under 19s coach Annan Whittington advised the side staged a second half comeback, from 16-0 down to win 22-16. The young Crushers were always going into their round 1 fixture as underdogs with only 16 available players with the Abergowrie College boys away on holidays. The side started slow to give away a 16-0 lead at halftime, before a reshuffle with the 14 remaining players (lost two through injury in the first half) and a highly disciplined 2nd half proving to be enough to pile on 22 unanswered second half points.

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Fullback Mitch Maher finished the game with the match winning try and saved two tries in the dying seconds to ensure the u19s start the season with the 2 points Players Player was Evandah Bann, who was strong all game in the centres and was supported well by Lock Connor Matsen, Hooker Aiden Stedman and Front Rowers Zach Dorrick and Tristan Milan.  

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The Crushers next play away vs Charters Towers this Saturday.

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(Contributed with thanks by Peter Reitano)

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You’re invited to join us in celebrating the Exhibition Opening Night of ‘Artist Books of FNQ’, a group exhibition lead by Valerie Keenan.

This exhibition explores storytelling through handmade artist books.

Experience Artist Books of FNQ, a group exhibition led by Valerie Keenan, inspired by the sugar industry and its strong connections to the Tully region, the exhibition reflects personal experiences, environment, labour and local history through unique artistic forms.

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Drawing on a variety of materials and loosely exploring environmental themes, artists from across the Cassowary Coast region have taken part in a series of book-making workshops and are now proudly sharing their creations with the Hinchinbrook community.

Opening night is FREE entry and has a cash bar with canapés provided. Bookings are essential for catering purposes, so please secure your spot on hinchinbrooktickets.com.au

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Exhibition on display from 6:00pm Friday 24 April 2026 until 4:00pm Saturday 23 May 2026.

TYTO Regional Art Gallery is open daily 10:00am to 4:00pm.

For further information, please visit Council’s website, Events Calendar page.

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The students at the Murray Upper State School finished off their term 1 by eating a vast quantity of Easter eggs and showing off their ‘Postcards of Honour’ and Easter bonnets. With high energy and happy spirit, the Cardwell RSL Sub Branch congratulated all parents, students, and teachers for an amazing job they did on the two projects.

Postcards of Honour is an initiative introduced by the State Office of the RSL and has proved very popular with all three local schools around Cardwell, and the students got very creative making them. Postcards of Honour is a creative learning activity for primary and high school students where students can design and write postcards to express their gratitude to veterans, fostering understanding and appreciation of Australia’s military history.

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Throughout Australia’s military history, postcards and letters have provided vital support to those on active duty. Postcards of Honour invites students to reflect on this tradition by writing and decorating a postcard to show a service person their support and appreciation.

The Cardwell RSL Sub Branch invites everyone to participate in their Anzac Day March and Ceremony at 10:45am on Saturday the 25^th of April 2026.

LEST WE FORGET

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Reggie is the definition of sweet, affectionate, and full of love. This handsome boy has one simple wish in life, to be close to his people and soak up all the attention he can get. Whether it’s a cuddle on the couch, following you around the yard, or just sitting nearby watching the world go by, Reggie is happiest when he’s with you.

Reggie has a gentle, loving nature and thrives on connection. He will quickly become a loyal companion who adores his humans and wants to be part of everyday life.

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This clever boy does enjoy his space to run and play, so secure fencing is a must to keep him safe while he stretches his legs and enjoys some outdoor fun. He would absolutely love a home where he can get regular exercise, explore, and burn off some of his happy energy, followed of course, by plenty of cuddles.

Reggie also has a playful (and slightly cheeky!) side. He loves to pick out one special toy to be his absolute favourite... and happily chew up the rest, so a good supply of sturdy toys will keep this happy boy entertained.

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Reggie is the perfect mix of playful and affectionate, and he’s ready to find a family who will give him the love, attention, and security he truly deserves.

To arrange a meet-and-greet, please complete an animal enquiry form at: www.angelpawsinc.com.au/forms.html

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Included in adoption fee of $495 he’s desexed, microchipped, up to date vaccinations, flea/tick/intestinal worm treated & on Proheart.

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From Pioneering Hardship To Modern Strength: Herbert River CANEGROWERS Mark A Century

By Steph Ruggieri

Long before modern machinery and global markets, the Herbert River sugar industry was shaped by resilience, uncertainty and the determination of those who worked the land.

From the early 1870s, when the first plantations were established near what is now Ingham, growers faced relentless challenges. Crops were devastated by pests and disease, sugar prices fluctuated wildly, and extreme weather events tested the survival of farming families. Labour shortages during World War II and earlier upheavals in the industry added further strain to an already demanding livelihood.  

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Yet through every challenge, the strength of the local industry has been its people, and their ability to stand together.  

What began as a practical response to these pressures ultimately led to the formation of the Queensland Cane Growers’ Association in 1926. Built on cooperation and a determination to secure fair outcomes for growers, it laid the foundations for what would become CANEGROWERS - a grower-led organisation committed to collective action and shared purpose.  

Over the past century, the sugar industry has changed dramatically. Markets have globalised, ownership structures have evolved and regulatory frameworks have shifted. Yet the core reason CANEGROWERS exists has remained constant: wherever imbalance exists in the industry, growers need collective representation.  

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CANEGROWERS Herbert River Chairman Steven Marbelli said the centenary comes at a time when growers are once again facing significant pressures, reinforcing the same principles that led to the organisation’s formation.  

“While the challenges may look different today, the need for a strong, collective voice has never been more important,” Mr Marbelli said.

“CANEGROWERS was established because, wherever challenge exists in the industry, growers need to stand together to be heard. That necessity is still what defines us today.”  

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He said the sugar industry had continued to evolve over time, but the underlying purpose of the organisation remained unchanged.

“We are seeing real impacts on-farm from global supply chain disruptions, particularly around fuel and fertiliser availability and cost,” he said.

“These are not distant issues. They are already influencing the decisions growers are making right now, with flow-on effects for production, profitability and the broader regional economy.”

Mr Marbelli said CANEGROWERS continues to work across industry and government to ensure growers’ voices are heard and their needs are addressed in a rapidly changing environment.

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Tickets on sale now for the Centenary Gala Dinner – 9 May 2026!

The milestone will be celebrated at a Centenary Gala Dinner on Saturday 9 May 2026 at the Gilroy Santa Maria College Hall in Ingham, commencing from 5:30pm. The evening, hosted by Member for Hinchinbrook, Wayde Chiesa, will feature guest speakers and a showcase of historical photographs and memorabilia highlighting the evolution of the local industry.  

Tickets are $75 per person, including dinner and drinks, and are available through the CANEGROWERS office or online at www.trybooking.com/DKBTC

As the Herbert River sugar industry looks to the future, the centenary serves as a reminder that while times have changed, the foundation of unity and resilience remains as strong as ever.  We look forward to celebrating with members past and present, and the wider community.

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In Cardwell, congratulations and a huge well done also to Ethan for reaching 25 Parkruns and to Kellie on the incredible milestone of 300, both fantastic achievements worth celebrating.

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Amazing to see Matt on stepping into the Run Director role for the first time and doing an excellent job. It is great to see new volunteers taking on key roles and helping keep Parkrun running smoothly each week.

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Palm Creek saw a wonderful spike of Personal Bests with five runners improving their times. It’s great to see both runs keep their participation numbers up these holidays with many new and returning faces keeping active locally.

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Parkrun Results: 11th April 2026

Palm Creek #120 – 40 participants
Fastest time: Lacey Jayasuria (21:04)
Final finisher: Kelly Krumin (1:00:49)
PBs: Dallas Jayasuria (21:21), Todd Cockburn (27:52), Ruby Cockburn (30:07), Derrick Neitz (30:18), Bernard Di Bartolo (35:37)
First-timers: 4 welcomed
Volunteers: Ted Cogger, Bernard Di Bartolo, Paula Rand, Donna Panzenbock, Matteo Mancuso, Kelly Krumin, Steven Veltmeyer

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Cardwell #382 – 23 participants
Fastest time: Hayden Pitman (20:38)
Final finisher: Rachelle Warlond (58:41)
PBs: Bruce Boland (39:04)
First-timers: 6 welcomed
Volunteers: Matthew Gardiner, Dave Ball, Jan Ferguson, Terry Curtin, Rachelle Warlond, Jake Ball, Kerry Snell

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Photos sourced: Cardwell and Palm Creek Parkrun Facebook pages

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The Allamanda Fours has wrapped up for 2026, with a fantastic afternoon of bowls bringing together players from across the region in a spirit of friendly competition.

A total of 56 players took to the green, enjoying three games that allowed plenty of opportunity to mix with both local and visiting bowlers.

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Organisers extended their sincere thanks to everyone who helped make the event a success. From the Ingham workers who banded together on the day, to Joe Mugica for umpiring and Kevin Walker for keeping score, the event ran smoothly thanks to a strong team effort. Special thanks also went to groundsmen John Piotto and Lenny Mahon, who ensured the green was in top condition throughout the competition.

Off the green, the afternoon tea once again proved a highlight. Much delight was shared about the spread, with appreciation extended to President Elsa and the Ingham Ladies for their efforts.

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Congratulations were given to all winning teams, with organisers noting the event was as much about participation and connection as it was about competition.

A heartfelt thank you was also extended to the event sponsors, Hinchinbrook Shire Council, Wilmar Sugar & Renewables, and Carey Group, whose support helped bring the day together.

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With another successful year complete, players are already looking ahead, with organisers hoping to welcome everyone back again in 2027.

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For more photos click here: https://www.hinchinbrooklife.com/social-pics/allamanda-fours-done-and-dusted-for-2026

Caption:

1. Winning team being presented their prize by HSC Mayor R Jayo:
   R Tawse, P Bailey, R Engert & L Emery. Photo credit: Ingham Bowls Club

2. 2^nd place: W Goodwin, G Cockrell, M Berry & L Poole, with HSC Mayor R Jayo. Photo credit: Ingham Bowls Club

3. 3^rd place: L Riches, L McClintock, M Sumpton & L Dune, with HSC Mayor R Jayo. Photo credit: Ingham Bowls Club

4. 4^th place: M Owen, T Mawson, N Mammarella & A Burns, with HSC Mayor R Jayo. Photo credit: Ingham Bowls Club

5. Afternoon tea was a smash hit with the competitors. Photo credit: Ingham Bowls Club

6. Alligator Creek having lots of fun on the green. Photo credit: Ingham Bowls Club

7. Many games played in unison at the Allamanda Fours. Photo credit: Ingham Bowls Club

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The 2026 Gilroy Santa Maria College Swimming Carnival proved to be a record breaking day in the water, with four long term records broken and the crowning of the inaugural 'GSMC King & Queen of the Pool'.

McAuley House broke their 14 year swimming carnival drought by taking home the Junior Boys, Junior Girls, Senior Boys and the overall House Champion shield.

O'Meara House showed great spirit across the day, being awarded the Spirit House Champion and denying McAuley a clean sweep by winning the Senior Girls shield.

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Congratulations to the GSMC Age Champions who excelled across the day;

12 years boys: Romeo

12 years girls: Asha

13 years boys: Nate

13 years girls: Kyla

14 years boys: Charlie

14 years girls: Eva Grace

15 years boys: Kadin

15 years girls: Lara

16 years boys: Brayden

16 years girls: Samantha & Bree

17/Open years boys: Lucas (4 new school records)

17 Open years girls: Louise & Keira

King & Queen of the Pool

The 2026 Carnival also saw the introduction of the inaugural King and Queen of the Pool event, with the fastest five boys and five girls competing to see who took home the title.  

A big congratulations to King Lucas (McAuley) and Queen Eva Grace (Rice) on being our first ever winners!

Lucas showed his dominance across the day and will go down in history, breaking four long term GSMC Swimming records.

Records Broken

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100m Freestyle Open Boys- 1:02:55, previously held by N. Di Bella 1:02:75 (2021)

50m Backstroke Open Boys- 33:65, previously held by B. Taylor 33:70 (1994)

50m Freestyle Open Boys- 26:93, previously held by T. Southern 28:07 (2008)

50m Butterfly Open Boys- 29:85, previously held by T. Southern 30:45 (2008)

Gilroy Santa Maria College would like to extend a very big thank-you to the Hinchinbrook Aquatic Centre for hosting a great day of swimming.

(Contributed with thanks by Annan & Carley Whittington of Gilroy Santa Maria College)

Photos Caption:

1. King Lucas (McAuley) - Queen Eva Grace (Rice). Photo supplied