Bowen State High School Musical Prepares For Grease The Musical

Talent runs thick through the walls of Bowen State High School, as students and staff ramp up for their ‘Grease the Musical’ school production which premieres tonight.

The student-led cast, coming from every age-group from year 7 to year 12, have spent close to six months preparing, rehearsing, and perfecting their lines, eager for the big show.

Year 9 students James Madlangsakay and Oliver Bond play the titular characters of Danny Zuko and Kenickie Murdoch, and are thick as thieves these days, having bonded over being T-Birds together.

“For me, it was all for the money!” James said when explaining his initial motivation for being part of the production.

“Actually, just kidding, I just wanted to do it because I wanted to try new things!”

For Oliver, he was initially nervous to audition for the show.

“I was pretty hesitant at first,” he said.

“I was like, ‘this doesn’t sound like something I would really do’, but it’s fun, and I’ve never got to hang out with these people before.

“It’s kind of cool to come in and meet new people and do something I’ve really never done before, and there’s no judgement because none of us have ever really done it before too.”

With close to 50 students as part of the cast, backstage crew, and band, the biennial musical is a big feature on the school’s event calendar.

“Anyone who wants to be in the music can be in the musical,” explained co-director Bridget Conti.

“The arts aren’t as big as sports are here, but it’s slowly building.”

Music teacher, Jack Gleeson, works closely with the students for the show’s music and believes that musicals are important to the school community.

“From what I’ve seen across the semester working with you guys, some of you were definitely hesitant at the start, but now you are genuinely and incredibly happy during rehearsals,” he said.

“You have so much fun!”

Matilda Payne, a year 9 student who plays Frenchy, was excited to pursue a new hobby and explore the musical theatre world.

Annabelle Payne plays Pink Lady, Marty, and as a Year 11 student, the 2023 production would be her last chance to participate in a high school musical.

Considering her tertiary opportunities, Annabelle is now looking to move to the Sunshine Coast where she will study to become a midwife.

Following her experience choreographing the dance to ‘You’re The One That I Want’, in the second act of the production, she also wants to become a dance teacher.

Showcasing the talent of the Bowen State High School students, Grease the Musical is not a show to miss.

WHAT: Grease the Musical

WHERE: Bowen State High School, McKenna Hall

WHEN: Friday 28 and Saturday 29, July

TICKETS: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1074531

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The cast of Grease the Musical has been rehearsing for six months now, and are ready to wow audiences

Sandy and Danny, played by Jasmine Dunkerton and James Madlangsakay embody their roles

The Pink Ladies act as integral characters to the plot and are a laugh for audiences

The T Birds’ performance is touching and highlights the growing bond between students. Photos supplied

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For as long as Tania Reid has known, she has always had a gift for the written word.

Tania moved to Bowen from Townsville 12 years ago, with her parents and sister.

She has been writing poetry since she was a teenager, perfecting her craft for years now.

Over the years, Tania has touched on every aspect of life, writing poetry on the passing of her parents, the passing of a dear friend, her treasured cat Simba, and the beauties of the world.

“People say my poetry comes from the heart,” she said.

One of her more touching poems, entitled ‘Hope’, speaks to Tania’s treatment of a brain tumour.

In 1998 Tania had been experiencing headaches and mood swings, then one day one side of her body began to turn numb.

“I could feel it creeping up, and that’s when my sister took me to the hospital, and they found it,” she explains.

The tumour was the size of an orange on the top of her brain, and she was immediately scheduled for surgery the following week.

“When I survived it, I was so happy to be alive, that I wrote a poem. It’s the best one I’ve written, everyone says it, and it is full of hope,” she said.

The tumour left Tania’s cognitive ability strained and in need of consistent support through Bowen Flexi Care, however her ability to touch people with her poetry has only strengthened.

Through her poetry, readers can see the growth and maturity of Tania, as she ages and has monumental life experiences.

“I think it’s gotten better too, matured a little over the years.”

You can see Tania’s poem published in next week’s newspaper.

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Having been perfectly crafting her art, Tania Reid touches on intimately human experiences. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Living life in the fast lane is nothing new for Chris Keillor, also known as Wheelsie, former Bowen local and current champion wheelchair marathoner.

Just a few weeks ago, Chris completed the Tassal Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, and was the only wheelchair participant.

He completed the 42.2-kilometre marathon in just five and a half hours.

“It has been my favourite course so far, but I was hoping to have it done in four and a half hours, but because of the headwinds, it boosted me back to five and a half hours,” he said.

“I was the first person in the history of the Airlie Beach Marathon event to ever turn up in a wheelchair and want to give it a go.”

Chris became involved in wheelchair running back in 2015.

“I felt so amazing at the finish line, that I just wanted to run it all over again,” he said.

Since then, Chris has committed to training twice daily, and while he is in Bowen, that includes running up Flagstaff Hill.

He now looks to complete an ultra-marathon from Perth to Melbourne, a 3,500-kilometre trek.

“But instead of running 42 kilometres, I’m looking to average between 55 and 65 a day, that way I can have rest Sundays,” he explains.

Chris became wheelchair bound 19 years ago in a road accident, when his bicycle collided with a car and his back was broken in three places.

Competing in marathons has been a reprieve for Chris and a motivation for him to inspire other wheelchair bound people.

And the secret to his success?

He swears by taking a drink of Moro Extra Virgin Olive Oil daily, to keep your bones lubricated and your muscles strong.

Added bonus, Chris claims the oil removes any and all pain.

With championships across two states, Chris is looking forward to returning to the Airlie Beach Marathon Festival for 2024.

“I’ve got to defend my title!” he laughs.

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Chris ‘Wheelsie’ Keillor is a marathon champion and completed the Airlie Beach Marathon earlier this month. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

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Now is the time to invest in new lawn maintenance essentials, with Bowen Small Motors and Cycles looking after us this season.

Right now, and until stock lasts, all mowers – yes that includes your push, ride on, and zero turn mowers - are up to 10 per cent off!

With brands from Honda, Stihl, Briggs, and Dunlite, Hansa, Shindaiwa, Bushranger, Ferris, Toro, Rover, and Cox, all terrain needs are met.

And don’t forget your brush cutters, blowers, and even generators, all up to 10 per cent off.

Just in time for Father’s Day too, the team at Bowen Small Motors and Cycles has one of the best ranges of small garden tools that are perfect gifts.

Try your hand at the compact handheld Stihl pruner.

Marketed as garden pruners, this tiny yet powerful tool can take on trees or shrubs, cutting up garden waste and DIY projects or working with wood.

Next on this mega floor sale, check out the range of bikes, both your traditional and e-bikes.

With something for everyone without the exorbitant price point, they are up to 10 per cent off as well.

And look no further because the team stock all the biking accessories anyone could need.

“And we can get almost any bike you want,” owner of Bowen Small Motors and Cycles, Scott Raisbeck said.

This winter season don’t forget to service your machines as well, with Bowen’s Small Motors and Cycles being able to offer extensive and comprehensive repairing and replacing on offer.

“You should service your mower after 20 to 30 hours, which equals to about once a year,” Scott explained.

“Change your blades only when dull and be sure to blow out the air filters every time you use the mower.”

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With a massive range of mowers, blowers, bush cutters, and bicycles, there is something for everyone this mega sale time. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

The Immerse Art Installation is unveiling a brand-new component this year, introducing a full sensory experience that is set to amaze.

Not only will the audience be able to view the beautiful homage to the spectacular marine ecosystem, they will also be able to listen to a classical composition performed live.

This added touch perfectly complements the magical underwater wonderland theme of Immerse, where sculptured reef creatures and corals entirely constructed using recycled plastics and marine debris, combine with fantastic animated projections.

Dr Corrina Bonshek has created an original orchestral piece specially for the Great Barrier Reef Festival through Arts Queensland funding.

A renowned classical and contemporary musician and composer, Corrina, is turning her sights to nature sounds, including birds, whales, and the ocean, composing a series of classical pieces to encapsulate the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and majestic marine life within.

Performing at a Saturday night exclusive event, Corrina will showcase four classical, contemporary pieces of music, using recordings of Eastern Humpback Whales and reef sounds.

Entitled ‘Call from the Deep’, Corrina will be joined by a host of local musicians and students, creating a spectacularly intimate atmosphere.

The mellow sounds of the flute will be played by Laura Robson, with Finn Williams behind the elegant notes of the violin.

The last of the professional instrumental trio is Idris Harries, with the warm melancholic bass clarinet.

With them will be students from Proserpine State High School and St Catherine’s Catholic College on a range of percussion instruments.

“It’s a great range; we’ve got the flute to be high like a bird and we’ve got the bass clarinet so low that you can feel it,” said Corrina.

In particular, some of the musicians will be hidden amongst the audience, creating a touching three-dimensional aspect to the performance.

“In some parts, people will wonder ‘is that a shrimp or a musician’ because the music will be so multi-directional.”

This new component for the Immerse Installation is touchingly intimate and adds a layer to create a beautiful dialogue between the viewer and audience, the musician, the artist, and the ocean.

“It is charming, fun, intriguing, and uplifting,” explained Corrina.

“I always look to create a space for people to enjoy.

“I find that these compositions are a good fit for the overall art installation.”

Corrina’s inspiration comes from the spectacular music that the whales naturally create.

“Whales are musical creatures,” she said.

“Their songs can sometimes last 24 hours and they’re constantly different, improvising motifs and melodies.”

Corrina said she will often listen to the recordings of the whale songs and select segments that particularly resonant with her and inspire her deeply.

She will then write instrumentals and melodies to accompany the whale song.

“I find it interesting to listen and make something where the human follows the whales,” she explained.

Creating a human response to the whale’s music, she finds that the dynamic dialogue is the melody of the piece, creating a touching and beautiful aspect of the music.

The Immerse Art Installation will be viewable the entire weekend of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, with Corrina’s composition ‘Call from the Deep’ performed on Saturday night, August 5.

WHAT: Call From The Deep

WHERE: Fairytree Park, Airlie Foreshore

WHEN: Saturday, August 5 at 6pm

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Mackay Regional Council has been forced to make the difficult decision to postpone Daly Bay Illuminate due to unseasonal rains and strong winds.

Daly Bay Illuminate was set to kick off this Thursday (July 27) and run until Sunday (July 30).

Manager MECC and Events Andrew Bobeldyk said setup for the popular Mackay Festival of Arts event was considerable and would be impossible to achieve safely in the current conditions. Read more here:

Full release for website:

Council has been forced to make the difficult decision to postpone Daly Bay Illuminate due to unseasonal rains and strong winds.

Daly Bay Illuminate was set to kick off this Thursday (July 27) and run until Sunday (July 30).

Manager MECC and Events Andrew Bobeldyk said setup for the popular Mackay Festival of Arts event was considerable and would be impossible to achieve safely in the current conditions.

“Setting up the three large, externally sourced installations takes about three days and, as you can imagine, lighting, electricity and wet weather do not mix,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“We also have amazing locally crafted artworks, which are largely made from paper mache and we’d hate to see those destroyed,” he said.

Mr Bobeldyk said the impact to Queens Park from large transport vehicles driving over the wet grounds would also be significant.

“While it’s not a decision we wanted to make, we’d much rather postpone the event so that everyone can enjoy this event safely and to its full potential, rather than deliver a diminished version,” he said.

“We will work with our presenting partners to find a date that is suitable for everyone as soon as possible, however, we are aware this may be a few months away.”

The community is encouraged to follow the Mackay Festivals Facebook page for updates and announcements.

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Queens Park became a sea of picnic blankets on Saturday for the highly anticipated Wisely Wine and Food Day.

Punters enjoyed a wide selection of wine, food and entertainment, with sporadic rain only heightening the energy in the park.

Musicians, bands and dance groups, both local and visiting, shared the stages providing a perfect soundtrack for a day in the park.

Wisely Wine and Food Day is one of the biggest events on the Mackay Festival of Arts calendar, with plenty more to come before the festival wraps up in August.

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Rain did little to dampen spirits at Saturday’s Wisely Wine and Food Day at Queens Park. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Doug Petersen is a man passionate about preserving history.

The Bucasia-based historian and author has taken the next step in sharing Mackay’s local history with the younger generation by donating two of his books to Mackay State High School (SHS).

The first was a copy of ‘St Joseph’s Orphanage Merera’, which sheds light on the history of a Bucasia orphanage between 1869 and 1886.

Published in 2019, the book is the product of three years of research, telling the tales of the children who lived and passed away at the orphanage.

With many of the children’s burial sites still unknown, Mr Petersen also fought for a monument to be erected at Bucasia to honour the children.

The second is his most recent publication, ‘Salt Air & Sweet Soil: A Colloquial History of The Mackay Northern Beaches’, which was launched last year.

Mr Petersen began researching the book in 2015 and tells the history of North Mackay and the Northern Beaches over 800 pages of tales and recollections from people who live in the region.

“Thank you so much for your generosity, Doug,” Mackay SHS shared on social media.

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Mackay State High School Head of Humanities Mrs Aprile with historian and author Doug Petersen. Photo supplied: Mackay SHS

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Brace yourselves readers, because my story this week involves sweat, shaky hands, and a blast from my past that I thought might not resurface. Yes, I'm talking about the glorious game of table tennis.

Now, let me take you back a bit. In my homeland of New Zealand, table tennis was a sport I loved. As a teenager I enjoyed nothing more than to slice and dice my way through the competition. I was never a prodigy, but at one point I ranked in the top eight in New Zealand for my age. I struggled with some of the finer mechanics of the sport, but my hand-eye coordination allowed me to be competitive.

When I migrated to Australia, my trusty table tennis bat found itself tucked away in a dusty box, collecting cobwebs for over a decade. Excuses piled up like laundry in my hamper. The heat of Mackay being my greatest excuse. It was like a wall of fiery despair, making me question my ability to handle a paddle without melting into a puddle.

Over the years, as the editor of this publication, I found myself crossing paths with the vibrant table tennis community. Their enthusiasm was infectious, and their gentle nudges started to pry open that box of memories buried deep within my soul. So, with a dash of courage and a smidgen of curiosity, I finally picked up my bat and ventured into the hallowed halls of the table tennis world on Bridge Road earlier this week.

Now, let's address the elephant on the table: rust. Oh boy, was I rusty! My serves wobbled like a newborn giraffe learning to walk, and my smashes sailed off the end of the table. But you know what? It didn't matter. Because in that moment, I rediscovered my passion for the game itself.

Sure, stepping out of my comfort zone was a tad daunting. But I can't help but wonder, what's life without a little fear and adventure? I’m now committed to regular practice and have put my name down to be a reserve player.

My point to all of this is, if there's a long-lost passion or hobby that you've been hesitating to revisit, take it from me—take that leap of faith! Embrace the fear, dust off the cobwebs, and dive headfirst into the wonderful world of what you love.

Fear is just another invitation to feel alive.

Amanda

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Bonza Scraps Mackay – Cairns Route

Bonza, Australia’s newest airline, has stunned customers with its decision to scrap the Mackay to Cairns route just a couple of months into providing the service. While the airline says it has had to step back on some routes to make its service more reliable, the surprising move has left travellers questioning the airline's strategy and its commitment to establishing a strong presence in the region.

In an open letter addressed to customers, Carly Povey, the Chief Commercial Officer of Bonza, announced the removal of the Mackay to Cairns route along with four other routes from the airline's initial route map, including Sunshine Coast to Coffs Harbour, Sunshine Coast to Port Macquarie, Sunshine Coast to Tamworth, and Toowoomba Wellcamp to Whitsunday Coast

Povey explained that the decision to discontinue the Mackay to Cairns service was based on the lack of sustainable demand at present.

“We’ve been compelled to take out five routes where there isn’t sustainable demand at present.

“Twenty two routes remain and where there is very strong demand, we’re also starting to add in additional flights which is very positive this early on in Bonza’s journey,” said Povey.

While Bonza's open letter emphasised the airline's commitment to earning the trust and respect of Australian travellers, the removal of a route so soon after its launch may erode some of that confidence, with those booked on future flights now having to make alternative arrangements and seek refunds.

Customers booked on routes impacted (from 1st August to 28th October) will be contacted by the airline via SMS and will automatically receive a full refund or alternate flights with Bonza, depending on their scenario.

“To those customers who have or will face a cancelled flight - we apologise.

“These changes allow us to maintain the many great aspects of the Bonza experience whilst also doubling down on consistently delivering reliability,” she said.

“In order for us to earn your trust, as we know that we’re at the start of that journey, we have decided to take a step back to allow our services to become more reliable.

“You could say, we’re taking a step back to allow us to take a leap forward,” she added.

By stabilising reliability, Povey says the airline will then move forward with growth plans which includes going on sale with flights from late October 2023 to April 2024 (including Christmas and Easter peak periods), establishing a third base which will mean additional job opportunities, new routes to existing and new destinations enabled by the introduction of additional aircraft.

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Mackay locals will no longer be able to fly directly to Cairns after Bonza announced it was removing the service as of August 1

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In Dawson’s Biggest Survey

Andrew Willcox prides himself on listening to his constituents and being the voice of his electorate, so over a year into his tenure, the Federal Member for Dawson is conducting Dawson’s Biggest Survey.

Mr Willcox said the survey is another way to get to know the needs of the Dawson community.

“It’s a pleasure to work with people, community groups and local businesses to get outcomes for our community,” he said.

“And I know that I’m most effective when I have a clear understanding of what’s important to Dawson residents.

“Even though I’m always out and about, whether it's at markets, shows, mobile offices, or community events, Dawson’s Biggest Survey is reaching people digitally.

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for Dawson residents to have their voice heard … with just a click.”

Covering a wide range of topics, the survey quizzes participants on everything from national security to the cost of living.

All Dawson residents who complete the survey will be put into a draw to win one of five $100 grocery gift cards.

“For the lucky winners, I know it’ll be a much-needed hand-up in the worsening cost-of-living crisis,” Mr Willcox said.

The survey is live right now at AndrewWillcox.com.au/biggest-survey.

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Moranbah residents now have local access to a range of mental wellbeing and suicide prevention services as not-for-profit charity, selectability, opened the doors to a dedicated facility.

The initiative, made possible through funding from the BHP Mitsubishi Alliance’s (BMA) Community Resilience Project, provides a central location for those across the region to access support and information and connect to a range of early intervention programs.

selectability regional coordinator Keri Webster said the opening of the new facility will provide locals access to services that previously have been unavailable.

“When we were in the early stages of planning the service we carried out extensive community consultation,” said Keri

“A part of this was a survey of locals and 89 per cent of respondents believed there was a need for a dedicated facility and programs locally.

“In addition, 78 per cent said they knew someone who would have benefited from our services in the past 12 months.

“A key focus of the three-year program is creating a Mental Health Hub and working to build community resilience, promote mental health awareness and improve help seeking behaviour across the region,” said Keri.

BMA Head of Health Safety and Environment Adam Webb said BMA was delighted to work with selectability to deliver an initiative vital to the communities they operate in.

“We are committed to working with the communities where we operate to ensure they are supported with appropriate, sustainable and accessible services that meet the individuals living and working locally,” he said.

“We understand that there is a need for mental wellbeing and suicide prevention services across regional Queensland and BMA is pleased to be partnering with selectability in addressing this gap.

“Through this three-year program selectability aims to create a sustainable community peer support network to support the ongoing resilience of this diverse region.”

The Mental Health Hub, on Apppleton St, Moranbah, has an open-door policy for anyone seeking support for their mental health or experiencing isolation or loneliness.

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A mental health hub by selectability was opened in Moranbah last week. L-R: Life Coach Kayla Sutton and selectability Regional Coordinator Keri Webster. Photo Supplied: selectability

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redhotblue Claims Top Honours As Creative Agency Of The Year

redhotblue, a creative agency with more than 25 years of industry experience, has been honoured as the Creative Agency of the Year 2023 by the Australian Enterprise Awards.

The local agency's expertise in strategic digital marketing and creative content development has consistently delivered tangible results, empowering local businesses and fuelling community growth.

With a trailblazing spirit and an insatiable hunger for innovation, redhotblue has captivated audiences and transformed brands, solidifying their position as a champion of the creative realm.

Sofi Bajor, Senior Editor of the Australian Enterprise Awards said, “Not only is redhotblue championing in the realm of marketing, advertising, and branding, but it is holding the torch for future generations to come.”

To be recognised as the Creative Agency of the Year, consolidates that by cultivating intelligent creativity, redhotblue creates original and bespoke work that stands in a league of its own.

With an emphasis on fostering authentic relationships and creating without limits, redhotblue has pioneered innovative creative strategies that engage and inspire the local community. Their approach goes beyond traditional marketing tactics, incorporating grassroots initiatives, personal connection, regional content, and industry knowledge to resonate with audiences on a deeper level.

“We’re always our client’s biggest advocates,” said Founder and Director, Jody Lee Euler.

“Marketing is not only about getting deep into the psychology and habits of a client’s audience, but also fostering the integrity of a brand and ensuring its true authenticity shines through.

“That is always our number one priority.”

A standout recent campaign created by redhotblue was a community awareness campaign with the Queensland Police that focuses on and encourages behavioural change around domestic violence.

redhotblue has also had their campaigns featured on global advertising platform ‘Ads of The World’, alongside brands like Adidas, Heinz, and McDonalds.

Through strategic digital marketing, creative content development, and targeted local outreach, the agency consistently raises awareness, enhances brand recognition, and gains tangible results for their clients.

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redhotblue Founder and Director, Jody Lee Euler, featured on the cover of APAC Insider after redhotblue was named Creative Agency of the Year 2023 by the Australian Enterprise Awards

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Mackay School Named In Choral Fanfare State Final

Choral Fanfare is back on stage in 2023 with a Mackay school being amongst the five primary and five secondary school choirs being selected for this year’s state final.

Almost 10,000 students from 213 choirs took part in a series of regional festivals held across Queensland, with the final ten choirs set to perform in Brisbane next month.

The biennial Choral Fanfare program began in 2001 and gives students an amazing opportunity for performance experience, development of teamwork skills and well-deserved recognition.

Education Minister Grace Grace said she is delighted to see Choral Fanfare return to the stage this year.

“After watching it online in 2021, it is wonderful to see these amazingly talented young people back in the spotlight where they belong,” she said.

“To be given an opportunity to perform as one of 10 choirs at the state final is quite an achievement and I commend all 213 choirs who performed at regional festivals this year.

“Queensland state schools’ reputation in the field of music is outstanding and it is extremely exciting to see the level of interest in school-based choral music programs.”

Choirs of all levels take part in regional festivals to gain valuable experience as well as receive feedback from professional adjudicators and watch other choirs perform.

Fitzgerald State School Principal Tracey Adams said the school is very honoured to receive this award.

“Our choir, conductor and accompanist have applied themselves with great enthusiasm throughout the first semester to put this performance together. Everyone really enjoyed performing for the adjudicators, parents and fellow students and sharing their love of singing,” Ms Adams said.

“The Senior Choir performed this year at the Kodaly Mackay Choral Festival as part of a multi-school massed choir and the Regional Fanfare Finals in Mackay.

“Students are also looking forward to performing in the school cultural evening and the Mackay Eisteddfod this term. This is the second time that a Fitzgerald Senior Choir has been invited to perform at the Creative Generation Choral Fanfare State Final, the previous time being in 2019."

The state finalists will now perform for adjudicators at the primary and secondary state final concerts at the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University on Tuesday 22 August 2023.

This year’s performance has added significance, with the state final set to be held live for the first time since 2019.

Tickets to the Fanfare 2023 primary and secondary state final concert are now on sale and can be purchased online through QTIX.

Primary school state finalists

Brookfield State School (Brisbane) Senior Choir

Fitzgerald State School (Mackay) Senior Choir

Kurwongbah State School (Moreton Bay) Kurwongbah Senior Singers

The Gap State School (Brisbane) Senior Choir

Wilston State School (Brisbane) Wilston Wonders Senior Choir

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Fitzgerald State School has been selected for the 2023 Choral Fanfare state final

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The culmination of a fantastic Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival saw over 500 people walk into a magical wonderland Literary Dinner last Friday evening, one that was decorated with fluffy white clouds and bright white star lanterns.

Keynote speaker, political commentator, and comedian Annabel Crabb, enthralled the audience with her personal and deeply moving life story, creating a worthy end to an exceptional event.

This was the 19th annual Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival and over 16,000 tickets were sold from the 65 schools that participated in the two-day immersive, interactive, and educational literary festival.

More than 5,000 students attended, including 500 children from remote and regional schools who were kindly sponsored by the Winchester Foundation.

This is the 10th year in a row that the foundation has sponsored rural students and during that time over 4000 have attended.

Of course, one of the most important components to the festival is the guest speakers.

During the event 13 authors, poets, illustrators, and performers wowed our region’s youth, with over 80 program sessions and workshops and over 1000 books signed.

There were also over 70 parents who kindly volunteered their time.

A highlight of the festival for many students was the opportunity to meet their favourite authors in person.

Students queued after presentations to meet presenters, and to get their books signed.

This proved to be a Festival ‘must do’, with The Book Nook a packed space of excited and chatty youngsters each day.

A favourite with the students was Marc McBride, an incredibly talented artist that is most famous for his work in the international best seller series, Deltora Quest, now a TV series that has sold over 18 million copies around the world.

Marc’s presentations took students on a journey into how he brings a story to life, how his love of dragons and monsters are influenced by nature, and he inspired students to pick up a pencil and bring their own ideas to life.

Festival Manager, Mrs Tracey Gurdler, said she and the Voices team were “incredibly proud” of the results of the festival and the ability to start the journeys of the region’s youth in writing and literature.

“Every year, the festival brings a different buzz amongst the attendees. To see children engaged and inspired in the fun of literature, reading, writing, and sharing stories with each other is a joy to witness. This is what Whitsunday Voices Literary Festival is all about,” she said.

Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival relies on major sponsors and supporters in the local community, who value its goal to contribute to the literacy, cultural legacy, and social fabric of the future generations.

They would like to thank Major Festival Partner Daly Bay, Literary Dinner Partner Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure and other key partners BHP/BMA, Whitsunday Anglican School and Whitsunday Anglican School Foundation, and to the more than 50 local business partners, without whose support the Festival could not operate.

SAVE THE DATE

Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival 2024 has been scheduled for 10-12 July 2024 with tickets on sale in April 2024.

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Mrs Tracey Gurdler, Festival Manager, Mr Andrew Wheaton Whitsunday Anglican School Principal and Mrs Liz Russell Festival Coordinator with students. Photo supplied

Marc McBride inspiring students at the 19th annual Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival. Photo supplied

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