Photos supplied by Mackay Regional Council  

‍

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens came alive with imagination last Thursday as young children gathered for the annual Children’s Book Week Picnic in the Gardens. Hosted by Mackay Regional Council Libraries, the celebration featured Story Time under the trees, Baby Bounce on the lawn, face painting, puppets, crafts and plenty of Book Week fun!

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/book-week-fun-blooms-in-the-gardens

‍

Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

The Mackay Chamber of Commerce B2B Brews brought local businesspeople together over coffee at 9^th Lane Grind on Wood Street, with Chamber Photography Partner COFFEE + HOPS showcasing how professional photography can help businesses strengthen their brand, showcase their products and events, and connect with customers.

‍

‍

‍

‍

See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/coffee-connections-commerce-at-b2b-brews

‍

The regions finest came together in elegance and generosity for a dazzling night of celebration, raising vital funds to help keep the CQ Rescue lifesaving helicopter in the sky. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

‍

An evening of elegance and generosity unfolded last Saturday as esteemed guests, local business owners, community organisations and devoted supporters adorned the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre for the 2026 BMA CQ Rescue Charity Gala. Celebrating 30 Years of Lifesaving Legacy, the dazzling black-tie affair brought together the people behind the region’s businesses, organisations and communities for an unforgettable evening of fine dining, live entertainment and auctions.  

‍

Yet beneath the glamour was a serious cause — raising vital funds to support the lifesaving work of CQ Rescue, whose helicopter services provide a critical lifeline to people across Central Queensland when they need it most. It was an evening where every conversation, bid and contribution helped keep a lifeline in the sky!

‍

‍

A Night To Remember For CQ Rescue

‍

Last Saturday evening, on the 29^th August , the 2026 BMA CQ Rescue Charity Gala dazzled at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, bringing the community together in style to celebrate 30 Years of Lifesaving Legacy. Guests enjoyed a three-course dinner, live entertainment from Professor Judith Brown and the Bluewater Big Band, live and silent auctions, and the chance to support the vital work of CQ Rescue, making for a memorable evening of celebration, generosity and community spirit.

‍

See all the photos from the gala here:

https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/a-night-to-remember-for-cq-rescue-part-1

https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/a-night-to-remember-for-cq-rescue-part-2

https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/a-night-to-remember-for-cq-rescue-part-3

‍

Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

‍

Some of the Festival’s volunteers. L-R: Julia Evans, Rick Brown, Cait Fleming, Trish Jandt, Jannah Baker, Alicia Mulchay, Rachael Smith & Richard Evans

‍

Community Spirit Shines at Whitsunday Writers Festival

‍

By Richard Evans, President, Whitsundays Writers Festival  

‍

Very strong community is built, in part, by people willing to give their time, skills and goodwill.  

From sporting clubs and service organisations to festivals, schools and charities, volunteers are vital to the life of the Whitsundays. Their quiet, generous work keeps community life moving, often without seeking recognition.  

‍

Volunteering is also facing challenges across Australia, with many community organisations having trouble attracting and retaining volunteers as people juggle work, family, caring responsibilities, and increasingly busy lives. At the same time, volunteers remain essential to the delivery of community, arts and cultural activities.  

‍

This spirit is on full display at the Whitsundays Writers Festival, where a dedicated team of volunteers are the backbone of the event. They create strategy, provide program input, welcome attendees, assist authors and presenters, set up venues, and help everything run smoothly and to time.

Volunteers bring local knowledge, patience and enthusiasm, helping turn a program of events into a true community celebration. In return, they can meet new people, develop skills and gain valuable experience in writing, publishing, events, arts and community development.

‍

Perhaps most importantly, volunteering creates opportunities to be part of something bigger than ourselves.  

A conversation with a visitor, helping someone, welcoming an author, or solving an unexpected problem might seem like a small contribution. Collectively, however, these moments create the experience people remember.  

‍

Our Writers Festival brings together readers, writers, locals, visitors and local businesses, and it is volunteers who help make those connections inclusive, welcoming and memorable.  

‍

As a regional festival, we are particularly grateful to the people who choose to invest their time and skills in making it happen. Their contribution demonstrates that culture is not simply something a community consumes: it is something a community creates together.  

‍

So, to our wonderful volunteers: Thank you for helping turn an idea on a page into a festival that people can experience, enjoy and share.  

Our team includes Alicia Mulchay, Cait Fleming, Gail and John Glanville, Jannah Baker, Mark Henry, Rachael Smith, Rick Brown, Sue Birch, Trish Jandt, and our Whitsundays Literary Heart Award judging panel.  

‍

They are the people behind the scenes helping bring the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival to life – and we are very grateful to have them with us.  

‍

What: Whitsundays Writers Festival  
When:  Sunday 13th September 2026  
Where: Whitsunday Marine Club
Learn more: www.whitsundayswriters.com  

‍

Celebrating local creativity, connection, and community  

‍

Whitsundays Writers Festival  
Richard Evans  
Festival Director and President  
hello@whitsundayswriters.com  

‍

Book your ticket now for the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, 13 September at whitsundayswriters.com/2026-programme-speakers  

‍

Creative Connections Whitsunday  
Glenda Brown  
President  
info@creativeconnectionwhitsunday.com  

‍

Creative Connections Whitsundays supports and celebrates the region's arts community by creating opportunities for artists to connect, exhibit, learn, and thrive through partnerships, cultural events, and creative programs.  

‍

Get in touch!  
If you would like to submit a poem, creative writing piece, profile suggestion, event information, or share your creative story, please contact hello@whitsundayswriters.com  

‍

Give Dad The Gift Of Local Art This Father’s Day

‍

Looking for something a little different for Dad this Father’s Day? Why not give him the gift of choice — and support a local artist at the same time?  

A Creative Connections Whitsundays Community Gallery Gift Card lets Dad choose something he genuinely loves from the Gallery’s collection of locally created artworks and handmade gifts.  

‍

From original paintings and photography to prints, ceramics, jewellery and unique handcrafted pieces, there’s something to suit every taste. Whether Dad is an art lover, appreciates quality craftsmanship or simply enjoys discovering something a little different, a Gallery gift card gives him the opportunity to choose his own special piece.  

The gift also comes with a local story. Every purchase from the Community Gallery helps support Whitsundays artists and provides opportunities for local creatives to showcase and sell their work.  

‍

For those who are difficult to buy for, it’s a simple and thoughtful option — and one that gives Dad the pleasure of choosing something for himself.  

Give Dad the gift of local art this Father’s Day.  

Gift cards are available from the Community Gallery, Proserpine.  

‍

Community Gallery  
192 Main Street, Proserpine  
Monday–Friday: 9am–4pm  
Saturday: 9am–1pm  

‍

‍

Celebrating the Volunteers Behind Creative Connections Whitsundays  

‍
By Glenda Brown, President, Creative Connections Whitsunday  

‍

A thriving creative community doesn’t happen by accident. Behind every exhibition, Creative Day and welcoming Gallery door are volunteers who give their time, energy and enthusiasm to make it possible.  

‍

This month, Creative Connections Whitsundays is celebrating two of the people helping build that community: Shirley Wodson and Lucy Seddon Brown.  

Every fortnight, Shirley coordinates CCW’s free Creative Days, creating a relaxed and welcoming space where artists and aspiring artists can meet, connect and create together. Participants can bring along their own projects, try something new, share ideasand learn more about the Gallery, exhibitions and opportunities available through CCW.  

‍

‍

With her background in education, Shirley also brings valuable experience to developing activities and learning opportunities for the group. Her contribution is helping Creative Days become a regular opportunity for people to explore their creativity while building connections with others.  

‍

‍

Lucy Seddon Brown is another familiar face helping the Community Gallery grow. A professional Whitsundays photographer, Lucy combines her passion for photography with an enthusiasm for painting, drawing and mixed media.  

‍

As CCW’s Community Coordinator, Lucy has been actively promoting the Gallery to local businesses and visitors, encouraging new volunteers to get involved and helping raise awareness of the opportunities available to local artists. She also generously contributes her photography skills to Gallery events, with one of her own photographs already finding a new home through the Gallery.  

‍

For both Shirley and Lucy, volunteering is about more than helping with individual activities. It is about creating opportunities for artists to connect, share their work and grow together.  

‍

Their time, creativity and community spirit are helping make Creative Connections Whitsundays a more welcoming and connected place for everyone.  

‍

Silhouettes can transform even the most familiar sights into something more striking, and Merewyn Wright’s photograph of Airlie Beach’s towering Ferris wheel certainly does just that.

‍

Captured in October last year, when the Ferris wheel made its first visit to town, Merewyn’s image frames the attraction against the evening sky.

‍

Stripped of its usual bright colours and flashing lights, the Ferris wheel becomes a bold silhouette, its unmistakable shape standing tall over the Airlie Beach foreshore.

Congratulations, Merewyn, this picture has certainly come full circle!

‍

For next week’s Photo of the Week, the theme is “Something Beginning with M”.

‍

Thank you once again to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing another week of fantastic images.

‍

Water Sports Planning For Airlie. A meeting of Councillors, operators, and Harbours and Marine Department was held which could lead to an escalation of water sports at Airlie Beach.  

‍

Child Care. Dr. Christopher Green will be speaking on childcare at the Cultural Hall tonight at the invitation of Family Day Care. Interested people from Bowen will be bussed in for the occasion.  

‍

Bomb Left At Airlie Beach. An Airlie Beach man appeared before the Proserpine Magistrates Court charged with having placed a bomb in the street outside the Airlie Beach Hotel on Saturday night under a vehicle. The bomb, containing a considerable quantity of explosives, was defused by Constable Mark Graham of Cannonvale Police who was praised for his bravery.  

‍

Obituary  

Harold Seymour [Hal] Evans died aged 80. He was well known in the sailing community, as owner of the “Air Cloud “ , one of the first charter vessels of the area.  

High School Report. Teachers from all state schools in the area attended a seminar on “ Excellence In Teaching.” Year ten students took part in a field trip of urban areas. teachers accompanying the excursion were Jan Potter and David Contarini.

‘Lively Exchange’ at Council Meeting. Altercation between Division Two councillors Moscato and Shim and the other divisions from town took place.  

‍

Show Lights Switch On. Officiating at the switch on of the new floodlights Shire Chairman Cr. Peter Faust congratulated the Rugby Union Club and the Show Committee as prime movers of the project.  

Dance. The Dee Jay School of Dance have had a busy year with annual Ballet examinations completed by 39 dancers and the recent Mackay Eisteddford.  

‍

Orchid and Foliage Society. The field day for this club is in two weeks time, when 10 greenhouses will be visited.  

Leos Meeting. Guest speaker was Ron Boaler, a representative from the Queensland Cancer Fund, who drew attention to the dangers of smoking and that early detection of cancer can result in 50% recovery. Leos also raised $600 by wheelbarrow raffles which they presented to Miss Australia entrant Lisa Marquart.  

Grand Final Weekend. Proserpine Brahmans face Bowen Pirates in a much-anticipated season finale.

‍

AFL Bloods came away with wins in both grades, the A grade by a massive 213 points.  

Rugby Union. Returning NQ reps. Ray Aldridge and Peter Chengody led Proserpine Raiders to a tight 7-6 win over Mackay Keas.  

‍

The Lascelles presenting ribbons at the Proserpine Show.  

‍

Edward George and Emma Minna Faithful Lascelles (nee Boyle) pioneered the Goorganga, Lethebroo and Gunyarra district in the first half of the twentieth century.  

‍

Edward Lascelles, born in 1859, was the third son of the Honourable George and Lady Louise Lascelles, both from notable British families. He began in the pastoral industry with his cousin, the Honourable Harold Finch Hatton, at Mount Spencer Station, Mackay. After exploring the country between Mackay and the Barkly Tablelands, he partnered with C Crofton to buy Mount Pleasant on the Bogie River. He was among the few pastoralists to survive drought, tick invasion and low cattle prices.  

Lascelles was renowned for his keen eye for horses, likely the reason he judged horses at the annual Proserpine Show. At Mt Pleasant, he bought all forty horses from a deceased pastoralist’s estate for £4 each. At one time, about 500 horses, mainly draught horses and hacks, ran on the property. He bred mostly for the Indian Army, though he said the work was barely worthwhile because keeping the horses quiet was difficult.  

In 1891, he married Emma Minna Faithful Boyle, daughter of Rev. John Boyle of Leicestershire. They had three sons – Evelyn (Eve) Herbert; George Murray who died in infancy and Geoff Edward who died of blood poisoning aged fourteen.  

In 1893, along with other pastoralists, E G Lascelles became a foundation member and director of the Bowen Meat Works. For fifteen years, he was a member of the Wangaratta Shire Council and a member of the Bowen-Proserpine Tramway Board which built the line between Bowen and Proserpine in 1910.  

In 1910, he purchased Goorganga from Mr H Macartney (who had bought it from the Cotton family). In 1916, he sold Mt Pleasant to concentrate on developing Goorganga, a property with rich grassy plains and surroundings of lagoons teaming with wildlife. Goorganga was fairly well off for water, and the stock had access to tidal flats. He purchased some stud stock from Mr A. Cook of Greenmount, Mackay.  

George and Minna Lascelles were always kind and sympathetic to those less fortunate and ardently supported charitable organisations. Minna was an accomplished pianist and was actively involved in the social life of the district. She helped furnish a rest room in the Digger’s Hut – forerunner of the later CWA room – for women and their children coming to town in those days by horse and buggy. She was also an active member of St Paul’s Church of England.  

Son, Evelyn’s World War I service shaped the family’s support for service personnel. Minna served with the Red Cross, and George was a foundation member of the Scartwater Trust, founded by A H Cunningham in 1917 to support soldiers and their families from Proserpine to Innisfail and west to the Queensland border. The Trust provided scholarships and continues today in an evolved form. George also supported Soldier Settlement by buying 2,000 acres known as The Pocket, adjoining Goorganga between Thompson Creek and the O’Connell River.  

After the war, Evelyn took over management of Goorganga and remained active in the RSSLA, visiting schools each year to explain Anzac. In 1939, the Proserpine Returned Soldiers' League founded the Edward George Lascelles Memorial Bursary in honour of their patron who died in 1938; it continued until at least 1947. Evelyn’s son, Geoff, later received Queen’s Birthday honours for service to returned soldiers and the community.  

The Lascelles family were successful pioneers whose contributions left a lasting mark on the local community.  

POSTSCRIPT: In 1957, Evelyn Lascelles sold Goorganga to the Cox family.  

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Society.  

‍

Zak, Vhari and Chris photo credit: Rachael Smith and Trish Jandt

‍

The tourism industry gathered for a lively networking night last Thursday at Club Wyndham in Airlie Beach.  

‍

Chair of Tourism Whitsundays, Katelyn Aslett gave an inspiring speech of encouragement and was joined by Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins who gave a regional update.

‍

Olivia Brodhurst from Whales of the Whitsundays also spoke on the evening before a thriving networking opportunity recommenced under a spectacular Whitsunday sunset.

‍

See more photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/twilight-networking-at-club-wyndham-with-tourism-whitsundays

‍

Sisqó Tan. Photo supplied: Benson and Collete Tan.

‍

When Sisqó Tan first dazzled Airlie Beach audiences last year, he was a three-year-old star-in-the-making. Now four, he is returning with the SoulCutz crew and a much bigger audience behind him.

‍

Behind Sisqó’s love of the stage is SoulCutz, the 3 man group led by his dad, Benson Tan.

‍

Known for blending Motown, soul, funk, retro classics and modern hits, SoulCutz delivers music spanning generations, drawing inspiration from performers including Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, Shaggy and the Bee Gees.  

Combined with impersonations, energetic dance moves and plenty of crowd interaction, the group has entertained audiences across Queensland since reaching the top 12 of The X Factor in 2014.

‍

“Our audiences are equal, they are part of us,” added Benson.

“You feel part of the group, you’re not treated inferior, our audiences are part of the show and it’s lots of fun.”

‍

“I love performing, seeing smiles on people’s faces, making people happy and feeding off vibes - it’s a great feeling.”

‍

That love of performing has clearly rubbed off on Benson’s son, Sisqó, who has been immersed in the vibrant world of Brisbane’s Eat Street since he was just two months old, surrounded by music, lights and performers.  

‍

While other toddlers were content stacking blocks, Sisqó was nodding along from backstage. It wasn’t long before he began joining the band on stage and stacking up fans of his own.

‍

“He’s grown up with rhythm in his veins and it shows,” said his mum, Colette.  

“He absorbs the magic of the stage like second nature.”

‍

Sisqó speciality is undoubtedly Michael Jackson, from the dance moves to emulating his confidence and that unmistakable stage presence that commands the audience’s attention.  

‍

“I’m actually quite shy, so I have no idea where he gets his confidence from,” Colette said.

‍

“He absolutely loves performing, if he hears music, he wants to dance. He doesn’t care where he is or who is watching.”

‍

SoulCutz first brought the young performer to Airlie Beach last year, when he was just three.  

Since then, he’s turned four and gone from emerging star to social media sensation, amassing more than 408,000 followers and 12.3 million likes on TikTok, along with 42,000 Instagram followers. In the past 30 days alone, his videos have attracted an incredible 30.8 million views.  

‍

Despite the attention, Colette said he remains a cheeky young boy whose performances are driven by a genuine love of music.

‍

“The most beautiful part for us is that none of it is forced,” she said.

“He genuinely loves it. We just stand back and watch him do what makes him happy.”

‍

Where: Airlie Beach Hotel  

What: Soul Cutz and Sisqó Tan

When: September 12^th & September 13^th 2pm-5:30pm

‍

‍

Award-winning author Rachel Armstrong will headline the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival on Sunday 13th September, bringing audiences a rare chance to hear from a writer at the top of her game, fresh from a national award win.

‍

Rachel’s appearance comes hot on the heels of major recognition for her latest novel, Island Bite. The second book in her Wolf Shifters of Magnetic Island series was named the 2026 Speculative Fiction Romantic Book of the Year by Romance Writers of Australia at its awards in Darwin in August.

‍

The award recognises Armstrong’s ability to combine romance, fantasy and the distinctive atmosphere of North Queensland in a story that has captured readers’ imaginations.

‍

At the festival, Rachel will deliver the From the Heart keynote, giving audiences the opportunity to hear how a story goes from an idea to international acclaim, what her writing process looks like and where her North Queensland-set stories come from.

‍

“Having Rachel join us immediately after winning another Romantic Book of the Year is a real coup for the Festival,” said Festival President and Programme Director Richard Evans.

‍

“Her success is also a wonderful example of the depth of Australian writing talent and the kinds of stories that can come from our own region.”

‍

Across the day, audiences can enjoy live author conversations on publishing and finding story ideas, the presentation of the 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, readings from winning works and regional author markets. The program also includes live entertainment, working artists, refreshments, a sausage sizzle, prizes and raffles.

‍

“We wanted this year’s programme to be about the stories behind the stories,” Richard said.

“Where ideas come from, how writers develop their craft, and what it takes to bring a book into the world.”

‍

From 3pm, the festival opens to everyone with Stories by the Sea, a free afternoon celebration featuring more than 20 regional authors, book stalls, readings, live music, art, children’s activities and a community book swap. No ticket is required.

‍

Bookings for the main program are strong, with the day expected to reach capacity. Secure your seat through the festival website to guarantee your place.

‍

Stories by the Sea is free and open to everyone from 3pm, with no booking required.

‍

What: Whitsundays Writers Festival
When: 10.30am for an 11am–4.30pm program, Sunday 13th September 2026
Free community event: Stories by the Sea, 3pm–4.30pm
Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, Cannonvale

‍

4^th Don River Dash, ALL DAY, Don River, Bowen  

4^th Bowen Business Networking Event, 7:30am-8:30am, TBA, Bowen  

4^th Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine  

4^th 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach  

5^th Don River Dash, ALL DAY, Don River, Bowen  

5^th Cocktail Playground, 12pm-4:30pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach  

5^th The Filthy Animals Classic Rock Rangers Father’s Day Special, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach  

6^th Don River Dash, ALL DAY, Don River, Bowen  

6^th Whitsunday Counselling and Support Inc. Colour Run, 9am-12pm, Club Whitsunday, Airlie Beach  

6^th The Filthy Animals Classic Rock Rangers, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach  

6^th Bobby Alu’s Keep It Tropical North QLD, 3pm, Whitsunday Sailing Club, Airlie Beach  

8^th Sailability Whitsundays.  

10^th White Night Club 74 Disco, 5:30pm, Elementa, 26 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach  

10^th FREE Salsa & Bachata Social, 7:30pm-9pm, Hog’s Breath Café, Airlie Beach  

11^th White on Whitehaven Long Lunch, 9am-5pm, Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays  

11^th Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine  

11^th 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach

12^th White on Whitehaven Long Lunch, 9am-5pm, Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays  

12^th Bowen Orchid and Foliage Society Spring Show, 10am, Bowen Showgrounds, Bowen  

12^th Cocktail Playground, 12pm-4:30pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach  

12^th Soul Cutz, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach  

12^th 2026 Whitsunday Airport Shute Harbour Runway Dinner, TBA, Main Terminal, Shute Harbour Road, Whitsundays

‍

4th September

ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm

Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm

KC’s Bar & Grill: Retro Joe, 8pm-10pm

Grand View Hotel Bowen: DJ night, 8pm onwards

5th September

ABH: Filthy Animals, 2pm-5:30pm

ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm

Sorrento’s: Simon Briley, 4pm-7pm

KC’s Bar & Grill: Retro Joe, 8pm-10pm

Grand View Hotel Bowen: B Doubles, 8pm onwards

6th September

ABH: Filthy Animals, 2pm-5:30pm,  

ABH: Paul Fergus Morris, 6:30-9:30pm  

Sorrentos: Kieran McCarthy, 4pm-7pm

KC’s Bar & Grill: Ronny Croker, 8pm-10pm

Grand View Hotel Bowen: Ash Smith, 1pm-5pm

7th August

Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm  

KC’s Bar & Grill: Nick Di Gregorio , 8pm-10pm

8th September  

Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm  

KC’s Bar & Grill: Mick Woodbridge, 8pm-10pm  

9th September  

Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm [Text Wrapping Break]KC’s Bar & Grill: Mick Woodbridge, 8pm-10pm

10th September

ABH: Aaron Saxon, 6:30pm-9:30pm

Sorrentos: Lucy Rose, 4pm-7pm  

KC’s Bar & Grill: Paul Fergus Morris, 8pm-10pm

‍

BY GEORGIA MCDONALD

‍

This week I sat down with Ash Smith, a familiar face around the Whitsundays music scene. Originally from Lisburn in Northern Ireland, Ash had been travelling round Australia when he decided to come up to Airlie Beach. In typical Whitsundays fashion, what was supposed to be a one week visit turned into eight years.

“I came here for a week, played one gig at Magnums, stayed and got sponsorship,” he told me.

‍

While Ash may not have planned on pursuing music as a career, music was always a part of his life. Growing up, he was in choirs, performing solos at school. He stepped away from music for a few years, before picking it back up again around the age of 18, initially just for fun.  

‍

After recording a few songs and receiving good feedback, Ash realised he might be able to make a career out it and decided to take a leap. His gigging career took him to New Zealand and the United States.

‍

In the US, he travelled with two other singer-songwriters in an RV, making their way through Atlanta, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida, playing gigs and backing each other on their original songs. They didn’t generate much money from the trip, but as Ash put it: you might not make a lot of cash, but you make a lot of experiences.

‍

One of the highlights was playing on Beale Street in Memphis, which had been a big bucket-list moment for Ash. To make the whole thing even more fitting, one of the guys performed Walking In Memphis after the trio arrived ‘in the pouring rain’.You really couldn’t have planned it better if you tried.

Now, after around eight years in the Whitsundays, Ash has settled into the local music scene and has developed a broad style that allows him to adapt to any crowd; whether it be a chilled restaurant or a jam-packed late-night gig.

‍

A big part of Ash’s performances these days is his use of a loop pedal, which lets him build up his sound as he plays. He will layer drums, percussion, bass, backing vocals and guitar live, creating what essentially sounds like a whole band but from one person.

‍

What he loves most is being able to change things up every time, keeping things interesting for himself as well as adapting to wherever he’s playing.

For Ash, though, it’s not just about what he can create on stage, but the crowd he’s creating it for. He says an engaging and appreciative crowd makes all the difference, with the connection between musician and audience often encouraging him to give even more.

‍

Despite years of performing, Ash is still learning, currently teaching himself saxophone alongside the guitar, vocals, drums and flute he already plays. His advice for anyone starting out is simple: play as much as you can, practise, and take every opportunity to perform.  

“Any chance you have to play with any other musician, especially ones that are better than you, you’re always learning.”

‍

Song Recommendation Of The Week: I Can’t Make You Love Me – Bon Iver Cover

‍

Where to catch Ash this coming week:

Grandview Hotel, Bowen Sunday 6th September 2PM – 5PM

Every Sunday night at Boaty’s 6:30PM – 9PM

Every Monday night at Boaty’s 5:30PM – 9PM

‍

Jules, David and Kieran. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.

‍

The Airlie Beach Festival of Music committee held a free barbecue on Sunday, bringing the community together ahead of November’s musical extravaganza.

‍

Held at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, the relaxed gathering welcomed families and friends for an afternoon by the water, with sausages on the barbecue and live entertainment from acts including Jackie and Dom, a duo whose vocals and guitar proved a perfect match.  

‍

The event also gave organisers an opportunity to thank the volunteers, sponsors, supporters and music lovers who continue to get behind the festival each year.

‍

With preparations well underway, the afternoon offered a small taste of the chill atmosphere audiences can expect when the festival returns in November.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

With warmer days on the way and summer starting to feel a little closer, it is time to swap the hearty winter favourites for something fresh, colourful and full of tropical flavour.

‍

This mango and prawn salad is practically made for a Whitsunday afternoon. Sweet mango, creamy avocado and fresh prawns come together with a zesty lime dressing for an easy lunch or light dinner best enjoyed outside in the sunshine.

‍

Tropical Mango And Prawn Salad

‍

Ingredients

500g cooked and peeled prawns
2 ripe mangoes, diced
1 large avocado, diced
1 Lebanese cucumber, sliced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
2 cups mixed lettuce leaves
½ cup fresh coriander leaves
1 fresh chilli, finely sliced (optional)
1 lime
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper

‍

Method

Start by placing the lettuce, cucumber, red onion, mango and avocado into a large serving bowl.

Add the cooked prawns and gently toss everything together, being careful not to break up the avocado.

For the dressing, squeeze the juice of one lime into a small bowl before whisking through the olive oil and honey. Season with a little salt and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and finish with fresh coriander and sliced chilli for an extra kick.

Serve immediately with fresh crusty bread, or enjoy it on its own for a light tropical meal.

Fresh, simple and bursting with colour, it is the kind of dish that tastes like summer before summer has even arrived.

‍