What’s happening?
A Mother’s Day story is emerging from X-Golf Mackay.
It centres on the mums helping young people grow through sport, work and steady support.
Several young staff at the HomeCo Centre-based venue share that same background.
Their sporting paths include international golf competitions, a US tennis scholarship and local work in sport.
Assistant Manager Makayla Fraser started playing golf at age six.
Her mum first introduced her older brother to golf, before Makayla became hooked on the sport.
“My mum got my older brother into golf, and I just became obsessed with it,” Makayla said.
Makayla later moved into national competitions and represented Australia overseas.
That included three consecutive years competing in the United States and at the Junior Golfing Olympics.
Now 23, Makayla’s path has shifted temporarily after an injury.
However, she has stayed connected to golf through X-Golf Mackay.
She now helps run X-League competitions and supports players in a more social format.
Why it matters?
The story highlights how steady support at home can shape young sporting outcomes.
For Makayla, her mum’s encouragement helped build dedication and commitment early.
“I’ve had some amazing experiences which I never would have had the opportunity to do if I didn’t have a mum who motivated me to keep going,” Makayla said.
That support has also helped her stay involved in golf after injury.
It has allowed her to help others build confidence in the game.
The same link between family support and sport is clear in the Gibbons family.
Sixteen-year-old Raice Gibbons has played competitive tennis for the past eight years.
He recently earned a scholarship in Texas.
He has also been recognised with a USTA Sportsmanship Award.
Local Impact
X-Golf Mackay is showing how sport can support more than competition.
It gives young staff a place to work, communicate and grow.
Raice’s younger brother Reyne, has stepped into a role at the venue.
Their mum, Amanda, continues to support both boys through sport, work and daily life.
“As a mum, it’s such a proud moment seeing them working, communicating and really enjoying what they do,” Amanda said.
“You just keep showing up and supporting them through whatever stage they’re in. Places like X-Golf make that easy – it brings everyone together and you really see how much they grow.”
For Mackay families, the story reflects the wider role parents play in children’s sport.
It also shows how local venues can help young people build confidence and connection.
By the numbers
- Makayla Fraser started golf at age six, giving her an early start in the sport.
- Makayla is now 23 and remains involved in golf through X-Golf Mackay after injury.
- Raice Gibbons is 16 and has built his competitive tennis career over eight years.
Zoom In
Makayla’s story shows how family support can lead to major sporting opportunities.
Her early interest in golf grew into national competition and overseas representation.
Even after injury, she has remained part of the sport.
At X-Golf Mackay, she now helps others enjoy golf in a social setting.
The Gibbons family story adds another layer.
Raice is pursuing tennis overseas after earning a scholarship in Texas.
Reyne is now working locally in the sports space.
Amanda’s support continues across both paths.
Zoom Out
Across X-Golf Mackay, similar family stories continue to appear.
Some families are trying golf together for the first time.
Others are supporting children through elite pathways and everyday sport.
The common link is consistent support from home.
As Mother’s Day approaches, the story points to the quiet role mums often play.
Their support can shape confidence, character and long-term sporting habits.
What To Look For Next?
This Mother’s Day weekend gives Mackay families a chance to reflect on that support.
For X-Golf Mackay, the focus remains on helping people of all ages build skills and confidence.
Makayla will continue supporting X-League competitions and social golf participation.
Families can also learn more about the venue HERE.
