Cooktown Crocs Underwater Hockey players Rocco Thomason and Eli Carroll donned green and gold, representing Australia at the 2026 CMAS World Championship Underwater Hockey Age Group. Photo: Supplied.
Weekly Wackers wrap
Judi Marshall proved way too good when a field of 19 battled on the back nine of Carpentaria Golf Club for the Wackers win on 29 July. Marshall, coming in with a 47 and a net of 26.5, was delighted with her win, jokingly adding that she played well because her husband Bob was away. Aaron May, showing great improvement throughout the year, took runner-up honours with a gross score of 55. Hari Ginate took the 15th pin shot, which Leeroy Ahmat hit a superb shot to land just metres from the 18th hole. Peter “PK” Kenny left soon after his game, blaming work, but it turns out he was a little embarrassed about his score, which secured him the Bradman’s category. The Wackers crew also welcomed back ex-Weipaites Stretch and Giembra (Gee) Noonan.
Underwater hockey glory
After an outstanding effort in the water, two Cooktown Crocs Underwater Hockey team members finished their World Championships campaign in style late last month. Rocco Thomason and the Australian under-24 men’s team chomped on the competition to close the 2026 CMAS World Championship Underwater Hockey Age Group tournament as bronze medallists. Eli Carroll and the Australian U19 men’s team dug deep to defeat Great Britain in the finals and place fifth overall despite multiple players battling illnesses.
NPA basketball season concludes
After a season defined by skill, perseverance and a united spirit, the Northern Peninsula Area basketball season came to a close with the grand finals on 30 July. Team Invaders emerged as the 2026 women’s champions, and Team Ebuaubau scored their way to the top men’s spot. Ellen Baira and Neville Bond proved their skills on the court as the women’s highest point scorer and men’s highest point scorer, respectively, while Philzaba Woosup and Silas Tamwoy impressed as the women’s and men’s most improved players. Also recognised by their community were Alicia Tugai-Nona (women’s MVP), Neville Bond (men’s MVP), Maudie Whap (women’s finals MVP) and Thomas Pensio (men’s finals MVP).
