The Lyn Law Courts at the Casey Avenue complex was bursting with energy over the second weekend in June as 129 teams took part in the 2025 Queensland Country Bank Winter Carnival, the biggest in the association’s history.
Teams travelled from Cairns, Bowen, the Whitsundays, Proserpine, Emerald, Middlemount, Moranbah and Sarina to compete across six divisions: moddies (ages 7–10), Under 12s, Under 14s, Under 16s, ladies, and mixed.
“This was the biggest carnival Mackay Netball Association has ever hosted,” said Secretary Jenny Moohin.
“It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase netball in Mackay while engaging with other like-minded netball communities.
“The event brought together local players, volunteers, families and spectators, strengthening community ties and fostering a greater sense of pride and involvement in the sport.”
With hundreds of games played across the weekend, the competition was strong across all age groups, but it was the youngest players who created some of the most memorable moments.
“The moddies teams loved Crackles, the Queensland Country Bank mascot, and would stop mid-game to wave to Crackles,” laughed Jenny.
Queensland Country Bank’s (QCB) long-standing support has played a major role in the event’s growth and success.
“QCB have sponsored the carnival for the last six years and we continue to develop and value our relationship. The financial support is very welcomed, and the engagement with Bill and the staff of QCB in Mackay is fabulous and continues to foster ties with QCB and our netball community.”
Running an event of this scale took significant planning and people power.
“There were 129 teams all requiring coaches, umpires and scorers. There would have easily been over 300 volunteers directly associated with the teams.
“The carnival was run by our Operations Manager, Game Day Manager and myself. We would have easily spent over 100 hours planning and organising the carnival draw and logistics leading up to the carnival to ensure a well-run event.”
The carnival also had a clear flow-on effect for the local economy.
“The carnival added to the economy with the out-of-town teams requiring accommodation and meals in Mackay. We also had local food vans at the carnival. Our canteen, BBQ and food vans were overrun with sales.”
With the dust now settled on a record-breaking event, Mackay Netball is already setting sights on next year.
“Next year we hope to be able to deliver a carnival of equal size – or even bigger!”
