In 1949, Graham and Delma Hawkes arrived in Proserpine from Melbourne with Delma’s parents, Gladys and Stanley Slater who later owned Slater’s Bus Service. Graham Hawkes was a boat builder with a difference. He had learnt his trade using hand tools which had to be maintained in top condition to achieve the best results.
The Hawkes settled on 12 500 acres of land at Dryander East, now known as Earlando, and there they set up a boat–building yard on the beach front. From this beach, ten boats were built and launched. During this time, they welcomed their son, Joseph Graham Hawkes. From humble beginnings their business grew.
Three years later, the family moved to Cannonvale where they purchased land at Ocean View Avenue and built their dream home. Graham had completed the shed which later became his boat-building workshop, when he accepted the offer of a job maintaining resort boats at Hayman Island. Dell worked in the staff and resort kitchens and Joe attended school there.

After another three years, the family returned to Cannonvale where Graham started the boat building business which led to the establishment of Hawkes Slipway at Abell Point. At least twenty wooden boats were built up on their property in Ocean View Avenue. To launch the completed vessels, Graham would tow them on skids down the hillside to the slipway. Quite an incredible undertaking.
Despite not liking school, Joe completed his education, trained as a fitter and turner at the Proserpine Sugar Mill and then worked in the loco shed for about ten years. He had, however, inherited his parents’ love of boats. Upon leaving the mill, he lived on his boat, “Emmaloo” and worked full time at the slipway with his father. He was responsible for boat slipping and launching, crane operation, engine repairs and general maintenance. Graham’s passion for boats had such an influence on Joe’s life that, at the age of eight, Joe built his own timber dinghy proving that even at such an early age, he had already acquired some great skills.

One particularly huge task undertaken by Graham and Joe was repairing the Hayman Vessel M.V. “Miramar 11” which had lost its superstructure before sinking in Shute Harbour during Cyclone Ada on January 17, 1970. It was recovered and rebuilt which could have been done only with their knowledge and boat building skills. A measure of the quality of their work was the 50 ft M.V. “New Moon” that was built for a Mackay publican. It was launched one week before Cyclone Ada, survived the ordeal and was used to assist in rescues in the area afterwards.
 
Graham and Dell sold their home in Ocean View Avenue and purchased land at Paluma Road where they built a house and planned to start a coconut plantation. Graham retired and sold the slipway business in 1995, however, Joe continued to work for the new owners, Carol and Rodger Carter, for about eighteen months and then started work carrying out boat repairs for himself.
Graham was an amazing boat builder and repairer, who built boats for over fifty years, twenty-one of those with Joe in Airlie Beach. During that time, they successfully launched eleven motor vessels ranging in size from 26 feet - 50 feet and two yachts.
When Graham passed away in 2000, Joe moved to live with his mother until she died in 2005. He continued to live at the property, however, Joe suffered deteriorating health. A diagnosis of diabetes; a major heart attack and then a severe foot infection contracted while clearing debris after Cyclone Debbie confined him to a wheelchair. He could no longer manage alone and so entered the Nursing Home. Joe died in 2020.
The Hawkes family played an instrumental role in the pioneering boat industry of the Whitsundays. Their legacy will live on with the slipway remaining Hawke’s Boat Yard and the landscaping and nursery business that continues to operate in Paluma Road.
Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum.

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Joe worked with the locos at the mill. This retired steam loco was used in their shipyard.

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St Catherine’s Catholic College has proudly announced Amelia McKay as its 2025 College Dux, recognising her outstanding academic achievements and dedication throughout her senior schooling.

The announcement was made during a recent college assembly, where staff and students came together to celebrate excellence within the school community.

Amelia achieved the highest ATAR in the 2025 graduating cohort and was also awarded top-of-subject prizes in Literature, Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics and Psychology — an exceptional result that places her at the top of her year level.

The College acknowledged and thanked Taylors Property Specialist for their generous sponsorship of the College Dux award, which continues to support and recognise academic excellence at St Catherine’s.

Looking ahead, Amelia has accepted a place at university in Melbourne, where she will soon begin the next chapter of her academic journey.

The St Catherine’s Catholic College community congratulates Amelia McKay on her remarkable achievement and wishes her every success as she embarks on this exciting new path.

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Amelia McKay was celebrated as St Catherine’s Catholic College’sDux! Photo source: St Catherine’s Catholic College

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Residents across Proserpine and the wider Whitsundays will have easier access to vital skin cancer checks next month, with visiting skin cancer doctors returning to the region for a two-day clinic in March.

The Skin Cancer Doctor will be offering comprehensive skin checks and treatments at the Proserpine Community Centre on Tuesday 3 March and Wednesday 4 March, with appointments taking just 15 minutes and no GP referral required.

Queensland’s year-round high UV levels mean residents face some of the highest skin cancer risks in the world, making regular skin checks an important part of preventative health care.

Skin cancer is often curable when detected early, but many people struggle to notice subtle changes—particularly in hard-to-see areas such as the scalp, back, feet or between toes. Medical professionals recommend regular checks to identify new or changing moles, freckles or lesions before they become serious.

The visiting clinic provides a start-to-finish diagnostic and treatment service, delivered by a network of experienced skin cancer physicians who travel to regional and rural communities.

Appointments are privately billed, with a full skin cancer check costing $160, and a Medicare rebate of $43.90 available. Bulk billing is available for DVA Gold Card holders and cryotherapy treatments. Additional costs may apply for some treatments, with patients encouraged to speak to the clinic team for further details.

Bookings are essential and can be made online or by phone.

Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the visiting service and book a check, particularly given Queensland’s high skin cancer rates and the importance of early detection.

If appointments are fully booked, patients can join a notification list to be alerted if new times become available.

What: Skin cancer checks
When: Tuesday 3 & Wednesday 4 March
Where: Proserpine Community Centre
More Information: https://t.ly/proserpine or phone 1300 754 637

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Members of the community will soon be gathering to remember Alistair Gourlay, an active volunteer, caring neighbour, and friend to all, after his recent passing. 

Alistair was born in Glasgow, Scotland, but arrived in Australia aged just two. Growing up in Brisbane, Alistair was a Queen’s Scout and member of the Boys Brigade, before he trained as a plumber, roofer, and master builder. 

Highlights of his career include his design of the butterfly room for Expo 88 on Brisbane’s South Bank, and time spent in the Whitsundays, during which he built the original entertainment centre in Proserpine. His biggest love, though, was fishing. 

This led him to meet Lynne, in 2001, the chef on his chartered fishing boat in North Queensland. It took three of these annual fishing trips, but eventually the pair fell in love and moved to be together in Caloundra, Gold Coast. 

Later, they had a caravan built, and spent 7 years travelling around Australia, from Eyre Peninsula to Western Australia, catching barramundi, crabs and oysters. 

In 2007 Alistair was diagnosed with lymphocytic lymphoma leukaemia. A symptom of the condition was an intolerance to cold, which led Alistair and Lynne to move to the Whitsundays, where they resided from 2013. 

Here, Alistair threw himself into community life, serving as chairman of the Body Corp, and as an ambassador, meeting people off cruise ships and telling them all about the region he was so proud of. He was an active volunteer, once even being airlifted to hospital after breaking his hip cleaning up cyclone damage. 

Alistair is remembered as warm and kind, interested in people, and always the first to meet the neighbours. He could often be found surrounded by friends, meeting for coffee, or a Saturday beer at Reef Gateway. He is survived by his children, Stephen and Andrea, partner Lynne, and her children Wayde and Marnie, to whom Alistair was a role model. 

A celebration of life and releasing of the ashes of Alistair will be held at the Centaur Memorial, Kings Beach Caloundra, at 10am on Saturday 21st February 2026. Afterward, refreshments will be provided at the Mets Surf Club. All are welcome to attend. 

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Two young men in Bowen this week offered one hour of free service to anyone who needs it. Posting in the local community group, the duo sought ‘jobs of all sizes’, claiming they “do not have equipment but we have working hands!”

Their kind offer is a reminder that we don’t have to be specially skilled, trained, or equipped to serve our community.

Response from locals was positive, with Yvette Darwen commenting “What a wonderful idea especially for the elderly who may need trees trimmed or lawn mowed... I wish you all the very best.”

Oui Del added “Good on you guys it's lovely to see.”

Local Luke Watchman offered his own good deed in response, writing “When I have time off I could teach you young blokes about plastering how to fix doors. Fix holes in walls. Ect. I like what you guys are doing. Well done and keep up the good work.”

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Ready to help out. Photo source: Facebook

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A Bowen couple has reunited with the emergency responders who helped save a life after a sudden and terrifying medical emergency at their home.

When Bowen resident Athol Kennedy suddenly mentioned to his wife, Christine Snell-Kennedy, that he couldn't feel a pulse, her response was "well, you're still breathing?"

As she spoke, Athol's hand slumped from his neck and he became unresponsive.
Realising the seriousness of the situation, Christine acted immediately, dragging her husband from the bed onto the floor and commencing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) while calling Triple Zero (000).

Emergency services were dispatched straight away, and local fire officers and paramedics arrived within minutes. On arrival, the crews took over advanced life-saving care as Athol’s condition remained critical.

Thanks to the early and effective CPR provided by Christine, followed by two defibrillation shocks administered by emergency responders, Athol was successfully resuscitated.

In a heartfelt moment of gratitude, Athol and Christine recently visited the Bowen Ambulance Station to meet the people responded on the day. The visit provided an opportunity for the couple to personally thank the crew whose quick actions and professional response played a vital role in saving Athol’s life.

The reunion served as a powerful reminder of the importance of immediate CPR, early defibrillation, and the dedication of local emergency services, whose swift response can make the difference between life and death.

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Emergency Medical Dispatcher Cameron Hobbs, Christine Snell-Kennedy, Athol Kennedy, paramedics Georgia Walkley and Jonathan Smith. Photo supplied

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The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays is inviting the local community to come together for a special International Women’s Day celebration on Sunday 8 March, with a fundraising luncheon to support initiatives that improve the lives of women and girls. 
Hosted at the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal, the event will include a two-course lunch, bubbles on arrival, and an address from guest speaker Elizabeth Hackett. The afternoon will also feature both a silent auction and live auction, raising vital funds to support Zonta’s service and advocacy work.
“This event is an opportunity to celebrate women, reflect on the progress made, and continue the important work still needed to create a safer and more equal world for women and girls,” said Zonta Whitsunday’s President, Marlene Reiffel. 

The dress code will be ‘Captain’s Table – classy, elegant cruising attire’, and tickets are $120, available via https://bit.ly/Zonta_IWD.

The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays is also calling on local businesses and community members to contribute items or experiences for the silent and live auctions. Auction donation enquiries can be directed to zontaclub7@hotmail.com 

Contributed with thanks to Nikki Firmin.

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The Zonta ladies are ready to welcome the community to their special International Women’s Day celebration! Photo supplied.

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The Whitsunday Sailing Club is elevating its dining experience with a refreshed menu that reflects the Club’s commitment to quality, community and place — all enjoyed against its iconic oceanfront setting.

The new menu is built around three guiding principles: provenance, journey and sustainability. Alongside the comfort food and classic favourites members and visitors know and love, the Club now offers refined, gourmet dishes that showcase the very best produce the Whitsundays and Australia have to offer.

Provenance sits at the heart of the menu, with a strong focus on supporting local farmers, growers and fishermen. Ingredients are chosen with intention, celebrating what’s available locally while thoughtfully sourcing premium produce from further afield when it adds value — from grass-fed Tasmanian beef to Coffin Bay oysters from the Southern Ocean.

Sustainability underpins every decision, with dishes evolving based on seasonal availability and daily catches, rather than forcing supply to meet a fixed menu.

Behind the scenes, the Club’s kitchen team has embraced a return to fundamentals, now baking bread in-house and rolling fresh pasta from scratch. Under the guidance of Executive Chef Rick James, the already talented team has expanded its skill set, raising the standard across the entire operation and positioning the Club as a standout on the Whitsundays dining scene.

Chef Rick brings decades of experience to the role, having built an international career that includes service in prestigious kitchens and accolades earned both overseas and in Australia. While his background includes time cooking at some of the country’s most highly regarded venues, his focus at the Whitsunday Sailing Club is firmly on the bigger picture.

“It’s about giving back,” Rick says. “The goal is to create food that people talk about, that represents the Club and the community it serves.”

Since joining the Club, reformulating the menu has been approached with care and respect for its diverse audience — from long-time members to visiting sailors and families.

Maintaining accessibility while lifting quality has been a central priority, ensuring the dining experience reflects the inclusive, welcoming nature of the Club itself.

Looking ahead, the Whitsunday Sailing Club continues to explore ways to broaden its culinary offering, including intimate pop-up dining experiences and special events designed to celebrate food, place and people. With a strong team, clear values and a growing reputation, the Club’s food journey is only just beginning.

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Hi Everyone,

Sometimes you hear a story that completely changes the way you see something. That happened for me this week.

On Friday, our new journo, Suzanna, and I headed to Cannonvale Beach to meet a local skipper by the name of Kev. Thanks to a friend, this usually media-wary man was willing to talk to us, but with one condition: the story of his boat, shipwrecked on Pigeon Island during Cyclone Koji, had to be told in a positive way.

Instantly, the idea of headlines like “Boat Graveyard” was put to rest, and I found myself reflecting on how easily I had almost allowed a fear-mongering phrase to shape the story.

But why?

In this line of work, I guess it’s easy to be pulled toward the scary sensationalism so common in media today. Thankfully, this experience reminded me of the importance to stay grounded and true to the values we were founded on.

We sat with Kev for over an hour listening to his story, and despite losing so much, he focused only on the positives. That was because former crew members and complete strangers had rallied together to help bring his boat off the ocean floor and back onto the water.

He admitted it had been disheartening to see the backlash and negative assumptions on social media, even throwing my own almost-headline, “boat graveyard,” back at me. It was in that moment that I realised just how wrong I had nearly been.

That’s why it is now with a great sense of comfort that Suzanna and I present a real, honest and positive story of community spirit at the heart of the boat recovery following Cyclone Koji. You can read it on page 23.

Thank you to Kev for sharing his story, and thanks also to local skipper and father of my son, Dayle Thackray, for vouching for the local paper.

We hope we’ve done the story proud.

Rach

Quote of the Week: “Don’t let a little negativity stop you from seeing all the good that’s around” (Unknown)

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After facing near closure in 2024 due to funding challenges, the Great Barrier Reef Festival has been awarded funding as part of the government’s Destination 2045 strategy.

The initiative aims to secure Queensland as the events capital of the country, awarding nearly $2 million across 40 events spanning 12 destinations between June 2026 and June 2027. The fund is expected to deliver more than $213 million in economic benefit and more than 887,000 visitor nights.

Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said  “Events draw visitors into our regions, fill hotels, boost local businesses and showcase everything that makes Queensland an unbeatable place to visit. Through this latest round of the Homegrown program, we are delivering real economic and social benefits for communities right across the state.”

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Craig Davidson said Queensland’s events portfolio continued to grow in strength and diversity.   
“It’s great to see the variety of new events along with the return of some much-loved favourites in this latest round of funding. We welcome all travellers, whether they’re a sport or foodie fanatic, music fan or art lover, to immerse themselves in our culture and experience the very best events and experiences, right here in Queensland,” he said.

“Whether it’s the Birdsville Big Red Bash, the Abbey Medieval Festival in Brisbane or the Australian UFO Festival in the State’s north, we encourage everyone to get amongst it!” 

Chairperson of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, Margie Murphy, says the team are “very excited to be recognised as an event that draws tourists to the area”, and that the funds will go toward digital marketing to spread the word and bring more people to the festival.

With funding now secured from various sources for the 2026 festival, Margie is calling out for new people to get involved, whether that be by bringing new ideas to freshen up the programme or getting on board to volunteer. To get involved, visit: www.greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival lives on. Photo supplied.

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Airlie Beach ‘Bi Bi’ Making Change in Tanzania 
BYLINE Suzanna Mcloughlin

Local legend Vari Galletly, known as ‘Bi Bi’, the Swahili word for Grandma, to the kids she cares for, has dedicated her life to making life better for less-fortunate children in Tanzania. 

Over ten years ago after volunteering for several charities in Africa, Vari founded her own orphanage, House of Happiness.

Based in Arusha, near Mt Kilamanjaro, and operating in association with Umoja, an education centre Vari previously taught for, House of Happiness has given a home and access to education to many underprivileged kids.

Vari launched the home after witnessing mistreatment of children in an alternate orphanage, vowing to offer them a better option. She soon had fourteen children under her wing.

Travelling to Tanzania at least once a year, the home has been a lifeline to vulnerable young people, helping them learn, grow, and establish careers.

Vari is now witnessing the children she took on when she launched the orphanage flourish into adulthood. The youngest now 16, the cohort includes a trainee tour guide, aspiring civil engineer and pharmacist-to be. Vari is currently fundraising to help one of the home’s inhabitants, Simon, become a pilot- a costly training course, but Vari insists she can do it.

By partnering with Umoja, and hiring a long-term ‘mama’ to look after the children, House of Happiness has ensured the children retain strong cultural identities whilst boosting their education and building them a home, from funds raised here in the Whitsundays.

It hasn’t always been easy, coming up against corruption and tight spots over the years, but Vari says it’s all worth it. The kids are so grateful and brilliant, Vari explains, and whatever you give goes far.

“If you can just spare a few dollars a month, 50 bucks a month, 100 bucks a month, you don't even miss it. But the feeling that you get from doing it is amazing.”

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Bi Bi Vari with Tajewo and Christoph. Photo supplied

Simon’s First Flight. Photo supplied

Scan here to make a tax-deductable contribution to House of Happiness.

Bowen hosted the Queensland Government’s third Regional Forum on 5 February, bringing together business, community, civic and government leaders to focus on unlocking the region’s future potential.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP said the forum reinforced the important role local voices play in shaping long-term outcomes for the region.
“The forum kicked off with students from Bowen State High School outlining what they want to see and how making the right decisions now will help future generations,” Mr Last said.
“Each and every student shared their passion and their dreams, and it definitely put attendees in the right frame of mind.”
Mr Last said the Regional Forums are designed to ensure people in regional Queensland have a genuine say in decisions that affect their future.
“Both the formal and informal parts of the forum gave attendees direct access to decision-makers and provided a great opportunity to form connections that will be invaluable moving forward,” he said.
While the focus of the forum was future growth, Mr Last acknowledged the current challenges facing Bowen, particularly housing availability.
“Right now, housing availability is one of the biggest challenges in Bowen and it’s a challenge that was raised during the forum,” he said.
“You can’t drive investment and create jobs if there is nowhere for people to live.”
Mr Last said the Queensland Government has invested more than $30 million in the Bowen area to help unlock housing opportunities, recognising both the challenges and the region’s strong potential.
“It’s the complete opposite of the last 10 years, where people have flown in, told the community what to do and then left without making a meaningful contribution,” he said.
“The best way to help regions grow and realise their potential is to listen and work cooperatively. That is exactly what we are doing through these forums and through our investment in the Bowen area.
“Unlocking potential is about providing benefits throughout the community, and that is exactly what we are focusing on.”
Hinchinbrook Mayor Ry Collins said the Regional Forums place regional voices at the centre of decision-making.
“We’re looking forward to hearing directly from the Bowen community about their priorities and aspirations, and to working closely with the State Government to turn those ideas into practical outcomes that support growth, jobs and long-term prosperity,” Mayor Collins said.
North Queensland Bulk Ports CEO Brendan Webb said the forum highlighted the importance of place-based development.
“The power of place is alive and well in Bowen, and North Queensland Bulk Ports is proud to be part of this region and this forum,” Mr Webb said.
“Our ports connect regional Queensland to global markets, turning place-based development into real jobs, investment and long-term prosperity for the region.”
Regional Development Australia Greater Whitsundays CEO Robert Cocco thanked the Queensland Government for hosting the forum, describing it as a valuable collaborative platform.
“Regional forums bring together local leaders and stakeholders to discuss priorities, influence policy and develop community-driven solutions,” Mr Cocco said.
“They provide an opportunity to connect, explore local opportunities and address challenges across all areas of regional development.
“We look forward to the Bowen forum and to discussing practical challenges and solutions to support the region’s future development.”
Bowen Gumlu Growers Association CEO Jenn Honnery said listening to local voices is essential to long-term regional success.
“Effective regional development starts with listening on the ground,” Ms Honnery said.
“Place-based conversations like the Bowen Regional Forum are invaluable for bringing local voices together, strengthening partnerships and shaping practical solutions that support long-term regional economic development.”

Contributed with thanks to David Cooper.

Member for Burdekin, Dale Last MP, reinforced the importance of genuine consultation.
Director-General of Transport and Main Roads, Sally Stannard explained the next steps for Bowen’s transport links.
Over 150 business, community and government representatives participated in the Regional Forum.

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As wet weather continues across the region, businesses are reminded to stay alert to potential disruptions and the flow-on impacts to operations, staff, supply chains, and customers. 
We know how quickly conditions can change, which makes now a good time to review business recovery and continuity plans — from insurance and data backups to staffing arrangements, communications, and cashflow. 
Preparation won’t stop disruption, but it can significantly reduce its impact. Support is available, and the Chamber continues to advocate for affected businesses and connect members with practical assistance. 
These moments also reinforce why having a strong business voice matters — especially when decisions about leadership, governance, and preparedness shape how well our region responds to change. 
At the Chamber, advocacy is simply about making sure the voice of our business community is heard. It means speaking up on the issues that matter, having input into decisions, and helping shape the future of our region. When businesses engage, advocacy is stronger and outcomes are better for all.  
Effective leadership. Better decision making processes. 
One of the key focus areas to come out of our Vision for the Whitsundays project is the need for strong, effective political leadership. Clear, decisive leadership from Whitsunday Regional Council is critical as our region navigates growing complexity and competing priorities. 
Council is currently seeking feedback on future electoral arrangements ahead of the 2028 local government election. This consultation will help determine whether the region remains divided into six geographic divisions, each represented by a Councillor, or moves to an undivided model where Councillors are elected to represent the region as a whole. 
This is a great opportunity for businesses to have their say. I encourage you to complete Council’s online survey by 22 February 
To keep the conversation going, the Chamber will also host an interactive discussion as part of our Business Breakfast Briefing at 7:30am on Thursday 19 February, giving members a chance to share views and ask questions. 
Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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Stormwater drains can pose serious healthrisks. During rainfall, stormwater picks up pollutants from streetsand properties, creating contaminated water that may contain rawsewage, harmful bacteria, and parasites. Contact with this water canlead to illnesses, infections, and skin or eye problems. To protectyour health and the safety of your family, Council advises alwaysstaying clear of stormwater drains and flooded waterways. For moreinformation, visit Council’s website.

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February
14 Sam McCann at KC’s, 8pm onwards
17 Sailability Whitsunday, 9am onwards
9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am
27 Speed Networking, Lumos Café 7.30-8.30am
28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm – 5.30pm

March
3 Sailability Whitsunday, 9am onwards
7 Proserpine Lions & Lion Ladies International Womens Day, Proserpine RSL, 1pm-5pm
7&8 Late for Woodstock, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5.30pm
14&15 U2 Rattle & Hum plus Coldplay Show, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5.30pm
17 Sailability Whitsunday, 9am onwards
21&22 Katie Jayne LIVE, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5.30pm
22 The UK Rod Stewart Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm-9.45pm
27 FOGs Regional Tours Bowen Gala Dinner, Queens Beach Hotel, 6pm-9pm
27 Sydney Drag Queen presents WICKED Drag Bingo, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7pm-10pm
27 Speed Networking, Lumos Café 7.30-8.30am
31 Sailability Whitsunday, 9am onwards

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