How Will You Spend January 26? January 26 holds different meaning for different people across our community. For some, it’s a day of backyard barbecues, poolside catch-ups and family-friendly celebrations. For others, it is a time for reflection, respect and recognition of Australia’s First Nations peoples and the history that shapes our nation. Throughout the region this year, a diverse range of events will take place, including citizenship ceremonies, community gatherings, rallies and Survival Day commemorations – ensuring there is space for every voice and perspective. However you choose to mark the day, our Australia Day Event Guide brings together what’s happening locally to help you connect, reflect or celebrate in your own way.
Private “gated” Unit Complex
3 Bedrooms
2 Bathrooms
Ensuite
Double story
Previously let at $580 per week
Swimming Pool
Garage Parking
Airlie Beach Hotel is set to come alive this Australia Day weekend, with a powerhouse line-up of Australian rock icons and tribute acts taking to the beachfront stage for music, memories and mate-ship. Headlining the weekend is the acclaimed Cold Chisel tribute band Gold Chisel and an Australian Midnight Oil tribute, but special guests brothers of Jimmy Barnes, Alan Barnes and John 'Swanee' Swan will set the roof off. Running from on Saturday and Sunday, the free shows promise a relaxed, festival-style celebration of classic Aussie rock. Plus don't miss the massive showing on Monday from 12pm – 6pm titled ‘The Wizards of Oz’. For Alan Barnes, the upcoming performances mark a long-awaited return to the region, with his last visit dating back more than two decades. His brother Swanee is also excited to perform and will perform some of his hits plus songs from his latest album 'Believe'. continued on page 23 Alan Barnes And Swanee To Deliver An Unforgettable Weekend continued from page 1 Across the weekend, Alan Barnes will perform original material alongside well-loved Australian classics, with guest appearances from Gold Chisel’s Andy Lutze and collaborative moments that will see multiple artists sharing the stage. Adding an emotional layer to the event is the presence of Swanee, whose latest album 'Believe' has struck a powerful chord with audiences nationwide. Released last year, the album debuted at number one and features an all-star list of collaborators, including his brothers Alan and Jimmy Barnes on the track Brother of Mine. The song explores the distance and closeness that often define family life in the music industry, where touring can keep loved ones apart for long stretches of time. Recording it together marked the first time the three brothers had officially collaborated on a single track. “It was very emotional,” Alan said. “We’ve sung together on stage for years, but this was different. The song meant something to us as a family, and it turns out it means something to a lot of people.” For Swanee, Believe is as much about friendship and legacy as it is about music. Featuring artists from across Australia and overseas, the album reflects decades of shared stages, hard roads and lifelong bonds formed within the Australian rock scene. “If you’re true to your word and you do good gigs, people remember and will be stayers,” Swanee said. “This album is a testament to the degree of friendship that you get in the Australian rock industry." That philosophy also extends beyond the stage. Swanee has spent more than 15 years working with children in hospitals, rehabilitation centres and autism support programs, using music as a tool for connection, healing and confidence. Similarly, Alan said music has always been about more than performing on stage. “For me, it’s a way to express yourself and get your feelings out," Alan said. "But I love music because it brings people together, it takes bad feelings away, it gives good feelings and a lot of people just relax when they're out having fun." With the sad passing of Midnight Oil founding member Rob Hirst, the Australian Midnight Oil Tribute Show will perform a heartfelt dedication to Rob, which will play on the heart strings of many. The Airlie Beach shows will bring history, heart and shared experience together, with sets featuring songs from Believe, classic Australian rock favourites and collaborative finales that will see multiple musicians filling the stage. With limited bookings still available and strong demand already reported, the Australia Day weekend performances are shaping as a standout event on the local calendar. As Alan put it, “What better way to spend the weekend than great music, great people and a stage right on the beach?” WHAT: Gold Chisel Tribute Show & The Australian Midnight Oil Show Tribute Show ft. Swanee and Alan Barnes WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel WHEN: Saturday 24 & Sunday 25 (2pm - 5.30pm) WHAT: The Wizards of OZ WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel WHEN: AUSTRALIA DAY Monday 26 January (12pm - 6pm)
Strong momentum continues at SAPPHIRE, with Lot 1
now secured under contract and buyer focus shifting to
the release of Lot 2.
Lot 2 SAPPHIRE offers a standout off-the-plan
opportunity, showcasing an impressive 5-bedroom
(or 4-bedroom plus study) residence of approximately
400m². The home has been carefully designed to
deliver modern coastal luxury within one of the
Whitsundays’ most exclusive and tightly held locations.
With construction already underway, buyers have
a rare opportunity to secure early and personalise
selected finishes in partnership with an interior
designer. Featuring solid concrete construction,
premium materials, and a timeless architectural
approach, SAPPHIRE has been created for enduring
quality, longevity, and elevated lifestyle appeal.
Combined with super-low body corporate fees, strong
market demand, and an anticipated completion in
early 2026, Lot 2 SAPPHIRE presents a compelling
opportunity to secure a refined coastal residence at
a pivotal stage — where considered design, quality
craftsmanship, and exceptional lifestyle come
together in one of the Whitsundays’ most sought-after
addresses.
Rachael has been with the company for more than 10 years and is dedicated to supporting and nurturing journalists as they begin—and then grow—within their craft. Each week, she selects an Editor’s Pick to celebrate an outstanding locally written story. “
We are part of the regional print-news revival, and our talented journalists are at the heart of this”
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