Happy Easter, Mackay! From chocolate flinging to joyful giggling, kids across the region are hopping head-first into the magic of Easter. With the long weekend finally here, families are soaking up the simple joys — sweet treats, sunny weather (hopefully) and time together. In another egg-cellent display, students from Whitsunday Anglican School stole the show with their colourful Easter Bonnet Parade — a true showcase of creativity and community spirit (see page 27 for all the cuteness!
Read the full storyDedicated Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) piano student Donald MacGregor has taken the stage by storm at the 2025 Basel Junior International Piano Competition. Hosted in Japan in 2025, the renowned online music competition attracted participants from around the globe, with Donald achieving international recognition when he was awarded the Outstanding Performance prize in the 13-15 years category. “I almost didn’t believe that I got the prize at first. It was my first in
Read the full storyThe Whitsundays' most dazzling night returns on July 26 at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, as the 2025 Mayor’s Charity Ball raises vital funds for three essential local charities. This black-tie, mask-themed gala will support BMA CQ Rescue, the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and the Bowen Community Centre—organisations that provide life-saving and life-changing services across the region. With live entertainment, a gourmet dinner, open bar, charity auction, and a fireworks finale, it’s a
Read the full storyWeddings Whitsundays is pleased to announce their merger into the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This strategic move aims to enhance business support services for the Whitsundays wedding industry and further promote the region as Australia’s lead wedding destination. Member-based organisation Weddings Whitsundays has been instrumental in promoting local wedding service providers to couples planning their weddings in the Whitsundays. The organisation has also collaborated with Tou
Read the full storyEco Barge Clean Seas Inc. has successfully released Betty, a sub-adult green sea turtle who was rescued while floating near Coral Sea Marina on Friday, 28 February. After several weeks of rehabilitation at the Whitsunday Turtle Rescue Centre, Betty has returned to her natural habitat and is now swimming freely through the pristine waters of the Whitsundays. Her return to the ocean was made even more special with a heartfelt farewell, as she swam off into the sunshine to the sound of an original
Read the full storyThe Whitsundays region recently welcomed the R U OK? Conversation Convoy, with events held in both Airlie Beach and Bowen, bringing locals together in a show of support, connection, and awareness for suicide prevention. On April 6th, the convoy made its stop at the Coral Sea Marina carpark in Airlie Beach, where the community gathered on the hill to enjoy an afternoon of conversation, learning, and reflection. With a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, attendees explored the caravan display, part
Read the full storyApril 17, 2025
They say you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover—but let’s be honest, when it comes to buying a home, first impressions are everything. And nothing says “welcome” quite like a lush, emerald-green lawn. It’s the red carpet of real estate, the final flourish that takes a house from “nice” to “need to have.” If you’re looking to sell, don’t underestimate the power of a pristine patch of turf. A well-maintained lawn not only boosts street appeal but can add serious value to your home. Buyers
Read the full storyApril 17, 2025
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood urgently needs 6,000 additional donors to replenish supplies depleted by ex-Cyclone Alfred. Widespread donor centre closures last month and a surge in hospital orders before the Queensland emergency have significantly reduced blood stocks. A major increase in donations is now critical to ensure patients continue to receive the lifesaving blood they need. Acting Chief Executive Officer Stuart Chesneau said Lifeblood is particularly focused on replenishing pla
Read the full storyApril 17, 2025
As of April, more than 60 lives have already been tragically cut short on Queensland’s roads in 2025, with hundreds more seriously injured. With the Easter school holidays set to begin, the Queensland Government is ramping up its efforts to prevent further road trauma with a timely reminder: there’s no excuse for speeding. The state’s Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR) has launched a new road safety campaign aimed at raising awareness of the dangers of speeding, as the state bra
Read the full storyApril 17, 2025
From the first bounce to the final siren, AFL is kicking big goals across the Mackay region, and there’s never been a better time to pull on the boots and join the action. Whether you’re five or fifty, footy fever is on the rise, with more families embracing the benefits of grassroots sport. Participation Lead Alex Brooks says the growth in 2025 has been phenomenal. “We’ve seen a massive uptake, especially in the 12-and-under space,” Brooks said. “That’s up 50 per cent year-to-date, wit
Read the full storyApril 17, 2025
Over twenty Mackay Road Runners and supporters gathered at Bluewater Quay on Sunday afternoon for a social 5km and 11km run along Harbour Road, turning at Mt Bassett before returning to the start. Participants navigated a mix of sunshine, wind, clouds and rain, but handled the unpredictable weather with ease. With the club’s Race Director Andrew Short currently enjoying a well-earned break, the event was a relaxed affair. Andrew is taking on the internationally renowned London Marathon du
Read the full storyApril 17, 2025
Results For Week Ending Sunday 13 April 025 Monday 7 April 2025 – 4.5 Table Howell Green Points 1st Janine Rodgers - Jewel Schmidt 3rd Monica Darley - Nancy Martin 2nd Gwen Liddell - Sandy Patterson 4th Diane Stokes - Edward Kliese Tuesday Evening 8 April 2025 – 5 Table Mitchell Green Points North/South East/West 1st Helen Van Den Broek - Tex Sheedy 1st Marilin Robins - Faye Wright 2nd John Mcgee - Mick King 4th Ken Seaniger - Geoff Taylor
Read the full storyApril 3, 2025
Airlie Beach Festival of Music is bringing a lineup so packed, it should have a baggage limit. Legends like The Screaming Jets, Jessica Mauboy, and Diesel are heading to the Whitsundays from 7th – 9th November. But this festival isn’t just about setlists; it’s an adventure in one of the world’s most stunning locations. The perfect anthem? ‘Run to Paradise’. With the main stage at Whitsunday Sailing Club overlooking the Coral Sea, acts like Choirboys, The Black Sorrows, Bachelor Girl, and Jayne
Read the full storyApril 17, 2025
Thursday 17th April Corry Cycles School Holiday Scavenger Hunt (Hints via Corry Cycles Finch Hatton on Facebook) Planning to visit Finch Hatton during the Easter school holidays? Join in the fun with a family-friendly activity! Follow Corry Cycles Finch Hatton on socials for hints on hidden objects around the area. The first to find and return the object to our store wins a prize. Be sure to like, share, and follow us for updates. First hint coming soon! Finch Hatton Mackay Leisure Centr
Read the full storyApril 16, 2025
For one thunderous afternoon, Melbourne's electrifying AC/DC tribute band, Thunderstruck, will ignite the stage at Airlie Beach Hotel this Anzac Day. Under the guidance of lead vocalist, B.J Vernal, for the last two decades, Thunderstruck has been notorious for delivering high-voltage performances, bursting with raw power and the iconic sound of Australia's legendary rock gods. AC/DC. With the talented Mike Vee also performing his popular Whispering Jack show, Friday, April 25th is shapin
Read the full storyApril 16, 2025
One of the Whitsundays’ most iconic events, the White on Whitehaven Long Lunch, is set to return to Whitehaven Beach in 2025 with two exclusive dates: September 12 and 13. Known for its unique blend of elegance, premium dining and live entertainment, the event transforms the world-famous shoreline into an oceanfront pop-up restaurant—complete with white marquees, Champagne, and seafood feasts. Guests begin their day with a scenic cruise through the Whitsunday Islands before stepping onto the s
Read the full storyApril 17, 2025
Friday 18th April The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers 7:00pm–10:00pm The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: GEED UP 2:00pm-5:30pm Saturday 19th April The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: GEED UP 2:00pm–5:30pm The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers 7:00pm–10:00pm Grand View Hotel: DJ Night 4:00pm–8:00pm Coral Sea Pavilion: DJ Sugarlips 2:00pm–6:00pm Sunday 20th April The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: GEED UP 2:00pm–5:30pm The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris 6:30pm–9:30pm Grand View Hotel: Darcy D
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