School holiday camps are now open for bookings at PCYC Whitsunday, offering a fun and active way for local children to spend their break. The camps provide a welcoming environment where kids aged 5 to 12 can stay active, learn new skills and make friends while enjoying a variety of popular sports and activities.

The program includes freestyle gymnastics, basketball, volleyball, badminton and a range of engaging gymnastics activities designed to keep children moving and having fun. With a mix of structured games and social play, the camps encourage teamwork, confidence and healthy activity during the school holidays.

Families can choose between convenient three-hour or six-hour camp sessions, making it easy to fit into holiday schedules. Children are also encouraged to bring a friend along, helping to create a friendly and supportive atmosphere for everyone involved.

Importantly, families do not need to be PCYC members to take part. The camps are open to all members of the community, making them a great opportunity for children to experience the programs and facilities available locally.

Bookings are now open and places are limited, so families are encouraged to secure their child’s spot early to avoid missing out on a fun and active holiday experience.

1 - Photo source: Facebook

‍

Voting is now open for the Queensland Bus Driver of the Year Awards, and the Whitsundays community has the chance to support one of its own. Local Whitsunday Transit driver David “Buzzy” Bussey has once again been nominated for the award, marking his third nomination and highlighting the positive impact he has on passengers every day.

Buzzy is well known among locals and visitors for the friendly welcome he offers to everyone who steps onto his bus. When asked what sets his approach apart, Buzzy keeps it simple. He believes in making people feel welcome. Whether transporting residents on their daily commute or greeting visitors arriving in the region, he aims to ensure every passenger feels comfortable and at home in the Whitsundays.

It is this attitude that many say reflects the spirit of the region itself. Friendly faces and genuine hospitality help create the reputation the Whitsundays is known for, and drivers like Buzzy play an important role in that experience.

Community members who would like to support Buzzy can cast their vote through the Translink website. Voting remains open until 11.59 pm (AEST) on Sunday, 22 March. Local supporters are encouraged to get behind him and help bring the award home to the Whitsundays.

1 – David “Buzzy” Bussey with Mayor Ry Collins. Photo sourced: Facebook

‍

Term 1 has been a busy and productive start to the year for the community at St Catherine’s Catholic College, with students recently completing NAPLAN assessments while also participating in activities marking the season of Lent.

College Principal Katherine Nelson said the term had also included important work focused on strengthening the College’s mission and future priorities as part of the school’s renewal and improvement planning.

“As a Catholic school, our mission sits at the heart of everything we do,” Ms Nelson said.

“At St Catherine’s we are guided by the Gospel values of Community, Compassion, Excellence and Justice, because we are inspired by Jesus. These values shape our approach to learning and teaching and help create a welcoming environment where students and families of all faith backgrounds feel part of our community.”

Families have recently been invited to provide feedback through a parent survey exploring the College’s mission, purpose and priorities for the coming years. The consultation process forms part of ongoing work across Townsville Catholic Education to strengthen learning and teaching outcomes while maintaining the distinctive Catholic identity of its schools.

Assistant Principals Religious Education Julie Hornstra said Lent was also an important learning time for students across the College.

“During Lent, students reflect on prayer, service and helping others,” Ms Hornstra said.

“As part of this, students will learn about the work of Caritas Australia and participate in fundraising activities to support communities experiencing hardship around the world.”

‍

On Sunday 22^nd March the Epic Walk for Domestic Violence is set to take place. Commencing at 7:30am, everyone will meet at the Coral Sea Marina Gardens and walk 5km from the meeting point along the Cannonvale boardwalk and back. Participants are advised to bring a picnic blanket, family, friends and dog if they have one.

The event is hosted by Whitsundays Dancing CEO Clarice Davis with support from support from Whitsunday Legal Service Ambassador Katelyn Aslett.

“It’s been going on in Brisbane for four years and this is the second year that we’ve held it in the Whitsundays”, Katelyn said.

“It’s just a fantastic community day that brings all sorts of people from the community together to raise funds and awareness for domestic violence.”

The team hopes to raise significant funds to support victims of domestic violence.

“Between us, Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast we hope to raise over $300,000. We’re hoping locally we can raise at least $50,000.”

This is a fantastic event that supports a critical issue.

“None of us like to think it happens in our community, but it happens in every community. These kinds of events just let everyone know that, even if times are tough, you are not on your own. We generally have a few services on hand, so we can point people in the direction if are struggling or who may know someone that is struggling.”

The event will also feature a special appearance from the CEO of Women’s Legal Service Queensland – Nadia Bromley, who will be travelling up from Brisbane.

“She’s going to speak to the community. Because the raised so much in our community last year, the team is dedicated to supporting rural and local communities. It is a testament to everything our community has achieved.”

Host Clarice Davis shared a similar sentiment.

“It’s an easy walk. The power is in people and their presence. Showing up on the day is a big message. It’s a way of showing solidarity”, she said.

This is an incredibly important event that supports a vital cause.

For more information, check out the ‘Epic Walk for DV’ website.

What: The Epic Walk For DV
When: Sunday 22nd March 6:30am
Where: Coral Sea Marina Gardens

Captions

Hosts for the event, Katelyn Aslett and Clarice Davis. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

‍

The Whitsunday Regional Council is preparing to introduce significant changes to how short-term accommodation (STA) is approved and managed across the region. The updates include both a planning scheme amendment and proposed changes to local laws aimed at improving compliance and protecting residential amenity.

A major amendment to the Whitsunday Planning Scheme 2017 relating to short-term accommodation is scheduled to commence on Monday, 30 March 2026.

Prepared under the Planning Act 2016, the amendment introduces stronger assessment benchmarks within the Low Density Residential Zone across the entire Whitsunday local government area.

Under the updated planning framework, short-term accommodation will generally not be supported in Low Density Residential zones.

Exceptions will apply to ten identified precincts that have a long-standing history of holiday home use.

The amendment provides clearer guidance for development assessments, helping both property owners and planners understand where holiday rentals are appropriate.

The planning scheme update follows a public consultation process conducted in 2025, where residents and stakeholders provided feedback on the future of short-term accommodation in the region.

Alongside the planning amendment, Council has launched consultation on changes to Subordinate Local Law No. 1 (Administration) 2014 that will affect how short-term accommodation is licensed, monitored, and managed.

Public consultation runs from 16 March to 19 April 2026 through Council’s online engagement portal and community feedback channels.

While the planning scheme determines where short-term accommodation is appropriate, the proposed local law changes focus on how these properties operate.

Key Proposed Changes

The amendments aim to improve accountability and compliance through several measures, including:

• Clarifying which accommodation types do not require an STA licence, particularly those already regulated or with minimal neighbourhood impact.
• Requiring licence numbers to be displayed on online booking platforms, making it easier for Council to monitor compliance.
• Formalising complaint response and escalation procedures for property managers.
• Strengthening enforcement powers where properties are poorly managed or repeatedly breach regulations.

Residents are encouraged to review the proposed changes and provide feedback through an online survey or via hardcopy forms available at Council customer service centres and libraries.

Community members can also meet the project team at the Bowen Centrepoint Shopping Centre on Thursday 26th March, 12pm–4pm

Additional resources are available to help property owners understand the approval process, including a Short-term Accommodation Guide and an online self-assessment tool.

Together, the planning scheme amendment and proposed local law changes represent a coordinated effort by the Whitsunday Regional Council to balance the region’s strong tourism sector with the need to maintain the character and livability of residential neighbourhoods.

Learn more and have your say at Your Say Whitsunday - https://bit.ly/STALocalLaw

What? Community Consultation on STA Amendment Proposals
When? Thursday 26^th March 12pm–4pm
Where? Bowen Centrepoint Shopping Centre

‍

On Thursday 12^th March, Zonta Club of Whitsundays had its annual book donation, which was marked by a morning tea at Cannonvale Library.

The Zonta team gathered to mark the occasion with Cr Jan Clifford coming to show her support.

The initiative was revamped in 2021 after the team noticed that the Zonta Section at the library hadn’t been updated for some time. Since then, Zonta have been donating new books and 2026 marks the fifth year of the collection in its new form. Since 2021, at least 30 books have been added each year.

The books are sourced by Secretary Janice Lake using a number of resources. Choices are made based on sources such as ABC Book Club, Booker Prize Long List and Women’s Authors Award with purchases made from the State Library bookshop and private bookshops.

The collection contains books from a range of topics including ‘self-help’, memoirs and general fiction with a focus on Australian and women authors, however it is not exclusive and encompasses a wide range of writers.

The club hopes that the Zonta Section will provide something for anyone looking for a good ‘read’.

Captions

Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

Airlie Beach is set to welcome an inspiring group of aviation professionals next May, as the Australian Women Pilots’ Association (AWPA) holds its 2026 National Conference and AGM from 6 to 10 May. This prestigious event, a highlight on the AWPA calendar, is more than a gathering of pilots—it is a celebration of skill, ambition, and community, bringing together women from all sectors of aviation, from student flyers to commercial, airline, and military professionals.

The Australian Women Pilots Association was founded in 1950 by pioneering Australian Aviator Nancy – Bird Walton. Since then, the aassociation has expanded and now includes members between the ages of 16 and 90, ranging from pre-solo students to commercial to airline and military pilots – with some members having 20,000 hours.

For the residents of the Whitsundays, the conference is a unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on the region. Hosted by a different state and regional town each year, the AWPA conference draws delegates from across Australia, creating a welcome boost for local businesses, accommodation providers, and tourism operators. With the theme Sun, Sea and Sky, Airlie Beach’s natural beauty offers a perfect backdrop for professional development and networking, showcasing the region as an attractive hub for events that combine learning with leisure.

The multi-day program promises a variety of engaging experiences, including an education day, the AIPA industry forum, and an air navigation trial. These hands-on opportunities provide delegates with practical skills while fostering connections with peers and industry leaders. According to AWPA Queensland Branch President Helen Trenerry, the event is about much more than flying: it’s about building relationships, sharing knowledge, and supporting women as they advance their careers.

The conference will culminate in the Qantas AWPA Runway Presentation Dinner at Shute Harbour, where over $110,000 in scholarships will be awarded, helping women pilots take the next step in their aviation journey. For the local community, this is a chance not only to witness the future of Australian aviation but also to be part of a gathering that champions inclusion, mentorship, and excellence.

Airlie Beach is ready to welcome women pilots from across the nation, putting the region at the center of a landmark event that combines professional growth with a celebration of our stunning coastal setting. More information and registrations are available at www.awpa.org.au/conference-agm.

Captions

Photo source: Facebook

‍

A major tourism gateway in the Whitsundays has changed hands, with Epochal Hotels acquiring the Port of Airlie, Cruise Whitsundays Terminal and Marina for $20.75 million in a move that signals continued confidence in the region’s tourism future.

The Port of Airlie is widely recognised as one of the key entry points to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, providing vital marine transport links for visitors and locals. The precinct includes a 1,400 square metre terminal building, extensive pontoon infrastructure and a marina operating under a seabed lease. The terminal is leased to Cruise Whitsundays, part of Journey Beyond Group, until 2035 with a further 10-year option.

“Port of Airlie plays a critical role in the Whitsundays’ transport and tourism network. This acquisition secures long-term logistics and connectivity for the region while providing a platform to enhance infrastructure and passenger facilities over time,” Mr Piper said.

Over time, Epochal Hotels plans to introduce improvements to the terminal aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the investment was a positive sign for the region and its tourism industry.

“The Port of Airlie is a key gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef, and this investment reflects strong confidence in the region’s future,” Mayor Collins said.

Captions

Epochal Hotels CEO Glenn Piper said the Port of Airlie plays an essential role in the region’s tourism and transport network.

Photo supplied

‍

Police Officers are now patrolling Airlie Beach by bicycle, on sleek E-bikes that give them an all-access-pass to previously hard-to reach locations.

Morning strollers may see the patrols along the Bicentennial Boardwalk between Airlie Beach and Cannonvale, as will parents at school drop-off and revellers at events like the Airlie Beach Music Festival.

The Queensland Police cycling initiative was adopted in the Whitsundays to increase community patrol, whilst making it easier to police other e-bike and e-scooter users, and allowing fast response to areas with no vehicle access, like the boardwalk.

The e-bikes arrived in December and have been adopted readily by officers.

“The whole idea is for community safety, to ensure those areas that were untouched before are now getting policed.” said Senior Constable Jessica Leech

“There are 1000s of people using the boardwalk daily, so we want to ensure that they're getting looked after along the way.”

Senior Sergeant Anthony Moynihan also highlighted the need to confront E-scooter issues in Queensland.

“It's an opportunity for us to interact with people that are utilising e-scooters and e-bikes and just have conversations around safety and things like that with them.”

Following several e-scooter related injuries in Airlie Beach, the police are reinforcing the need for helmets, and safe-transit on the boardwalk especially. Residents are asked to keep respectful distance and pace around pedestrians to ensure no further mishaps.

The patrols will be conducted in partnership with the businesses along the waterfront, who rely on footfall from the boardwalk and want to ensure safe passage for their customers.

1- Senior Sergeant Anthony Moynihan and Senior Constable Rachel Leech ready to patrol.

‍

On Friday 13 March, Proserpine Entertainment Centre hosted a citizenship ceremony, welcoming the newest citizens. The event was hosted by Mayor Ry Collins, with Uncle Leo Gabey presenting the welcome to country. Mayor Collins, Uncle Leo, Cr Jan Clifford and Cr Gary Simpson provided the certificates, along with a gift to show the regions warmest welcomes.

Mayor Ry Collins was happy to welcome his next-door neighbour of nine years - Bo Zhang - as an Australian citizen. The event was a fantastic morning as many individuals and families were presented with their certificates. It is wonderful to see so many people become more connected with our beautiful community.

1. Tyme Henry, Sharlene Ranginiwa (newest citizen), Cassius McLeod, and Jordan Henry. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
2. Bo Zhang and Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
3. Uncle Leo, Cr Clifford and Mayor Collins presenting the certificate and gift. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
4. Cutting of the cake. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
5. Karen Vloedmans, Brad  Vloedmans, Clement Autret (newest citizen) and Loretta Lopez. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
6. A great morning for everyone involved. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

‍

Following last weeks’ unexpected resignation from Deputy Mayor Michelle Wright, a new Deputy Mayor was elected on Wednesday at the Ordinary Council Meeting held in Bowen.

Mayor Collins thanked Cr Wright for her service.

“Councillor Wright will continue to serve the community as Division 4 Councillor, and I thank her for her contribution in the role of Deputy Mayor over the past two years,” Mayor Collins said.

Cr Michelle Wright said that “while there can be differing views around governance and organisational matters, I believe it is important to ensure clarity and stability moving forward.”

“I remain fully committed to serving the residents of Division 4 and the broader Whitsunday community as a Councillor. It continues to be a privilege to represent our community, and I will remain focused on delivering positive outcomes for our region.”

Councillor John Finlay was appointed as the new deputy mayor on Wednesday.

Cr Finlay brings significant experience to the role, including his background as a former CEO of both Bowen and Whitsunday Regional Councils.

“Thank you for your support in nominating and appointing me as deputy mayor. I am honoured and blessed to accept the position”, he said.

“Regardless of local demographics, the single most important for a community to have is – I believe – unity.”

Mayor Ry Collins has stated his support.

“I look forward to closely working with Cr Finlay as we continue to get on with the job for the Whitsundays”, said Mayor Collins.

“I also want to acknowledge and thank Cr Michelle Wright for her service as Deputy Mayor over the past two years.”

1 - Councillor John Finlay appointed as new deputy mayor. Photo credit: Facebook

‍

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton recently brought together several local women for a high tea at Deja Vu Cafe last Friday to acknowledge their contributions to the community as part of Queensland Women’s Week 2026.

Among those recognised was Amanda Potter, founder of The Held Project, who supports mothers experiencing perinatal mental health challenges by creating safe and compassionate spaces where women can feel seen, supported and understood during one of life’s most vulnerable seasons.

FACESS Mackay manager Penny Tatow was also acknowledged for her work supporting local youth. Through her leadership and care, she helps keep young people connected to school while encouraging them to believe in their future and pursue their dreams.

Caroline Fitos, founder of Pink Co Collective, was recognised for the support she provides to women recovering from breast cancer. Through her volunteer work, she offers emotional support, nutrition guidance, personal training and education, helping women rebuild strength, confidence and hope.

Long-time community advocate Vasiliki Comino was also honoured for more than three decades of volunteer service and support for local causes. A charter member of the Zonta Club of Mackay and a business owner with P Comino and Sons, she has also been a long-time sponsor of the Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Awards, generously giving back to the community she has long called home.

Maryanne Palliaer was recognised for her volunteer work with the River for Life, where her kindness, warmth and quiet generosity continue to uplift those around her and support important local initiatives.

Mr Dalton also recognised his beloved wife, Sue, acknowledging her ongoing support and encouragement throughout the years.

The morning provided a heartfelt moment to pause and thank these women for the difference they make, not only during Queensland Women’s Week, but every day across the Mackay region through their dedication, compassion and service to the community.

Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton hosted a high tea at Deja Vu Cafe to recognise several local women whose dedication, compassion and community work were celebrated during Queensland Women’s Week 2026.

Amanda Potter with Nigel and Sue Dalton.

Penny Tatow with Nigel Dalton.

Caroline Fitos with Sue and Nigel Dalton.

Vasiliki Comino with Nigel Dalton.

Maryanne Palliaer with Nigel Dalton. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

Arhamah Haider has been named the 2026 Lions Youth of the Year by the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club, impressing both judges and audiences with her poise, confidence, and articulate public speaking.

Taking not only the overall title but also the public speaking component, Arhamah stood out in a field described as exceptionally strong. Her ability to express complex ideas with clarity and confidence set her apart, marking her as a young leader to watch in the region.

As the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Youth of the Year, Arhamah will now represent her club and the Northern Beaches community at the wider Mackay Region competition, taking on other outstanding students from across the region.

The judging panel, comprising Andrew Carley, Gerri Kissner, and Kelly Menzies of Local Eyes Mackay, were praised for generously volunteering their time and expertise to support this important youth initiative.

Participants tackled challenging topics during the public speaking component, including human rights issues, the medical gap within communities, manufacturing in Australia, artificial intelligence, and other matters impacting youth today. Their presentations showcased insight, research, and maturity well beyond their years, leaving judges with the difficult task of selecting a winner.

The Lions Club also acknowledged the decades of dedication from Kaye Petersen, who has convened the Youth of the Year competition for over 30 years. Petersen’s countless hours coordinating the program have ensured its continued success and its lasting impact on young people in the community.

Mayor Greg Williamson, who was part of the judging panel over the weekend, praised the event and the calibre of the entrants.

“The calibre of young people who step forward to take part is outstanding, and it’s always encouraging to see the confidence, leadership, and community spirit they display,” he said.

“Congratulations to Zone Finalists Matilda McKenna and Arhamah Haider, with Arhamah taking out the win. Both represented themselves extremely well and should be very proud.

“Arhamah will now go on to compete in Townsville and I wish her all the very best for the next stage of the competition.”

Known for her confidence and can-do attitude, Arhamah Haider has already made her mark in the region. The Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club, along with the wider community, looks forward to following her journey at the wider Mackay Region competition and wishes her every success as she continues to shine.

Well done, Arhamah!

Arhamah Haider has been named 2026 Youth of the Year by the Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club, impressing judges with her poise, confidence, and outstanding public speaking, and will now represent the region at the wider Mackay competition. Photos supplied

‍

On Saturday 15^th March, Proserpine State High School student Tiarne Watson won the Lions Youth of the Year Zone 9 final. She competed against talented students Isaiah Howell (Bowen State High School), Kodie Mackie (Collinsville State High School and Public Speaking Winner) and Sophie Morgan (St Catherine’s College), as all showcased excellent skills in public speaking and leadership.

“I feel very grateful to have been commended as the overall District’s Lions Youth of the Year,” Tiarne said.

“The experience proved incredibly valuable and I appreciated the opportunity to meet and learn from like-minded young people who are passionate about their communities.”

The competition entailed a panel interview along with a formal lunch where the contestants responded to two impromptu questions, in addition to presenting their prepared speeches.

Tirane’s prepared speech concerned domestic violence, focusing on the long-term impact it can have on children and families whilst highlighting the importance of community recognition towards the issue.

As winner of Zone 9 (Bowen, Collinsville, Whitsunday, Proserpine) – Tiarne will go on to compete in the regional competition in Townsville on the 28^th March.

“I would like to thank my mentors Casey Scott and Jane Bettridge for their support and guidance. I also give thanks to my school for their encouragement. I am incredibly grateful for the Proserpine Lions Club for supporting me throughout the process.”

Tiarne is incredibly active in her community. She is the Vice Captain of Proserpine State High School and performs leadership roles as a Care Group Representative and UCAT Study Club Representative (2025). She is involved in many community initiatives such as volunteer work at Proserpine Nursing Home, Clean Up Australia Day, volunteer marshal at community sporting events, Vice President of Leos Club and a member of National Youth Science Forum UQ Brisbane.

The Lions Youth of the Program is now in it’s sixith decade and has always aimed to provide Australian Senior School students a forum to gain experience and confidence in presenting themselves to a selection panel and an audience. The program is managed and supported by Lions Australia and run by Lions Club in each of our 18 districts in close collaboration with and supported by – participating schools.

The program is designed to foster, encourage and develop the leadership capabilities of youth at the age where they are about to enter the fields of higher education or employment. The main qualities emphasised are leadership, personality, sportsmanship, public speaking and good citizenship.

It was wonderful to see the extent of support and enthusiasm towards the event. We wish Tiarne all the best at the District Final in Townsville. A further congratulations to all involved. It is wonderful to see the youth talent on full display across the entire region.

Captions

Tiarne Watson with mentor Scott Casey and Mayor Ry Collins

Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

‍

Aussie rock powerhouse Jimmy Barnes is heading to Mackay in a major coup for the region, set to headline Legends on the Lawn 2026 this May. The iconic performer will take the stage alongside a stellar line-up, bringing decades of world-class hits, raw energy and unmistakable soul to the Great Barrier Reef Arena.

In an interview with Mackay Life, Barnes shared his excitement about returning to North Queensland, a place he says he has always loved for its beauty, atmosphere and passionate crowds. With a career spanning more than 50 years, he remains one of Australia’s most electrifying live acts, known for delivering powerful performances that connect deeply with audiences.

Barnes says it’s the connection with the audience that makes it all worthwhile: “The minute I walk on stage, it all disappears — and that connection with the audience is what it’s all about.”

Jimmy Barnes, the heart and soul of Australian rock, is coming to Mackay to headline Legends on the Lawn 2026. Photo supplied

Soul Deep And Stage Ready

Jimmy Barnes To Grace Mackay In May
‍

Aussie rock icon Jimmy Barnes is set to bring his unmistakable grit and heart to Mackay this May, headlining Legends on the Lawn 2026. If his words are anything to go by, audiences can expect a performance charged with energy, emotion and authenticity.

In an interview with Mackay Life, Barnes said he’s always had a special connection to Queensland, describing it as a place that feels as vibrant as the music he’s spent decades creating.

“I love North Queensland… it’s got beautiful climate, beautiful beaches, great food… you can’t beat it.”

With a career spanning more than five decades, Barnes remains one of Australia’s most enduring and electrifying performers, but behind the powerhouse stage presence is a performer who still feels the weight of every show.

“On the day of the show, from the moment I wake up, I’m nervous. By lunchtime I’ve got knots in my stomach, and by four o’clock I’m pacing around.”

That nervous energy, however, transforms the moment he steps into the spotlight.

“The minute I walk on stage, it all disappears, and that connection with the audience is what it’s all about.”

It’s this connection – raw, honest and hard to miss, that has kept fans coming back year after year. Barnes credits that longevity not to chasing fame, but to staying grounded in truth and emotion.

“I’ve always been honest — I wear my heart on my sleeve. I sing about things everyone feels: love, fear, pain, hope.”

“No matter who you are, we all share the same emotions — and I think that’s what people connect with.”

From an early start in music, Barnes’ journey has been anything but ordinary.

“I’ve been singing since I was about four. I joined my first band at 12 as a bass player — but the singer got sacked after the first show, so I had to step up.”

That moment would shape the trajectory of an extraordinary career, one built on passion, persistence and a relentless drive to create.

“If you want to write, you’ve got to turn up. Sit down, pick up the guitar… eventually something will come.”

“There’s inspiration everywhere. I’m always writing lyrics in my phone or recording melodies… you’ve just got to catch it when it comes.”

Despite his success, Barnes remains grounded in what matters most, the music itself.

“Music was my way of escaping. When I was on stage, I could just sing and be free.”

It’s that sense of freedom and release that continues to resonate through his timeless catalogue, with songs like Khe Sanh and Working Class Man still striking a chord with audiences today.

Over the years, Barnes has experienced countless career highlights, but one moment still stands above the rest.

“Singing at the 2000 Olympics closing ceremony — that was incredible. Sharing that moment with the whole country and the world was probably one of my biggest highlights.”

As he prepares to take the stage in Mackay, Barnes carries with him not just decades of experience, but a message to aspiring artists.

“Don’t chase fame — chase connection. Find your voice… Pace yourself and enjoy the journey.”

And when the lights go down and the amplifiers fall silent, it’s the simple things that bring him back to centre.

“I love being at home — cooking, growing food, spending time with family. Those simple things are really precious.”

Fans will have the chance to experience the Aussie icon live at Harrup Park’s Great Barrier Reef Arena on Saturday, May 30, with tickets for Legends on the Lawn available now via Ticketmaster.

Jimmy Barnes brings his iconic voice and unstoppable energy to Mackay, promising a night of unforgettable hits and raw, electrifying connection. Photo supplied

‍