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Mackay families are invited to enjoy an evening of activities, entertainment and history at the free Light Party at Bluewater Quay on October 31st. Running from 4pm to 9pm, the family-friendly community event offers an alternative to Halloween, with children encouraged to dress as their favourite light-themed or positive characters. This year’s program will include two 30-minute freestyle BMX performances by JC Action Sport, scheduled for 5.30pm and 7.30pm, alongside live entertainment, food trucks and free activities for children. Organisers said the event would combine fun with opportunities for families to learn about historical figures and events associated with the 31st of October. These include William Wilberforce, who was sworn into Parliament on the 31st October and went on to see slavery abolished in 1833, and the Australian Light Horsemen, whose charge at Beersheba during World War I took place on the same date. The program will also explore Martin Luther, who posted his 95 Theses on October 31st, an event associated with the beginning of the Protestant Reformation, and George Müller, who came to faith on the same date and cared for about 10,000 orphans throughout his lifetime. Children can discover these stories through hands-on activities, with fortress building, weaving, horse racing, printing, cookie decorating, light-themed craft creations and fishing among the options on offer. The event aims to bring families together for an evening of entertainment, creativity and learning, with activities designed to engage children of different ages. With free activities and live performances planned throughout the evening, families can drop by Bluewater Quay and take part in the celebrations. The Light Party will run from 4pm to 9pm on Saturday 31st October, at Bluewater Quay, Mackay. Entry and children’s activities are free, with food available from food trucks. Last year’s Light Party brought Mackay families together at Bluewater Quay for an evening of free activities, entertainment and historical storytelling as an alternative to Halloween. Photo source: Light Party Mackay
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BY GEORGIA MCDONALD Welcome back to the musical hot seat. This week we sat with Peta Richards, whose love of country music has taken her from the rodeo circuit to the Whitsundays, where she continues to perform and share her love for music with the community. Music has been part of Peta's life since the age of eight. She taught herself guitar, began writing her own songs and eventually formed a band with her cousins called Shiraz. “There was a big family bond with music,” she reflected. Shiraz travelled throughout western Queensland, performing at rodeos and camel races, as well as appearing as guest artists for country music performers Adam Brand and Beccy Cole. They also took home the Best Overall Prize at the Charters Towers Country Music Festival in 2008. Having six children meant Peta's performing days slowed down, but music was never something she walked away from completely. After moving to the Whitsundays, Peta continued performing while putting down roots in the local music scene. In 2023, she joined forces with three partners to open local karaoke bar, Lola's. One of the things Peta loves most is seeing people come out of their shells and watching shy singers grow in confidence on stage. While Peta has spent years performing covers, she's now stepping into a new chapter by releasing her own original music. Her debut single, Don't Send Me No Roses, came out in June and tells the story of betrayal and reaching the point where enough is enough. Peta also performs at venues around the Whitsundays, with her own original songs on the setlist, and is set to take to the stage at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music. Despite years of performing, Peta still gets the same enjoyment out of getting on stage. While playing in a band has its perks, performing solo means all eyes are on her, which can be both nerve-racking and rewarding. For Peta, there's nothing better than seeing a crowd enjoying themselves and connecting with the music. When it comes to her own music taste, Peta is still a country girl at heart, with Shania Twain remaining a longtime favourite. She's also loving newer artists like Ella Langley, but for Peta, music is about more than just a catchy tune, with the right song having the ability to lift someone up when they need it most. With country music, Peta has a love for the lyrics: “They actually really tell stories.” It's something she's hoping to capture in her upcoming release, Let's Make a Stand, which encourages people to reach out and support those who may be struggling. The song is also a family affair, with her daughter contributing backing vocals and harmonies. With the Airlie Beach Festival of Music just around the corner, Peta is looking forward to sharing her original music with the crowd. After years of performing covers around the Whitsundays, it's an exciting opportunity to showcase her songwriting. And with more original music on the way, there's plenty more to come from Peta! Song Recommendation For This Week: Upcoming Release: Let’s Make a Stand – Peta Richards What? Airlie Beach Festival Of Music Where? Airlie Beach When? 6-8th November
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Fresh songs and a chance to learn from some of Australia’s leading songwriters will take centre stage when the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival returns for its sixth year. The festival returns from June 2–6, 2027, with Saturday June 5 set aside for music lovers to join the fun at the Whitsunday Sailing Club through workshops and live performances. The daytime Songwriting Summit and workshops will welcome emerging and experienced songwriters, along with anyone curious about how songs come together. Visitors can hear from professional songwriter mentors about their craft, while local writers will have opportunities to showcase their own work. For event organizer Karen Jacobsen, the appeal is giving people a glimpse into a process they might rarely consider when listening to their favourite music. “We demystify that by letting people behind the curtain,” she said. “It's a true celebration of the art and craft of writing songs and being together with other people who are either doing that or love original music. “That's something we're really proud of, preserving that craft of songwriting.” Six professional songwriters will come together at Pinnacles Airlie Beach for the festival’s residency, with audiences later hearing how the songs took shape by enjoying live performances of the newly written material. “It's a very exciting, uplifting event we have because, again, it's just that palpable experience of witnessing brand new creative work performed for the first time,” Karen said. The 2027 lineup is yet to be announced, with artist announcements and ticket updates being shared through the Whitsundays Arts Festival website. Photo caption: WSF 2023 Songwriter Workshop. Photo credit: Tropix Photography
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It’s never too early to get into the Christmas spirit, and Sparkles the guinea pig is already joining the fun, with a name that makes this week’s winning photo a perfect match for the theme ‘Glitter and Sparkles’. Photographed by Shannon Faletti, her daughter’s guinea pig is bringing some festive cheer to the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group. The gleam of the Christmas baubles and glitter scattered around the tree give Sparkles’ festive setting an extra touch of shimmer, while the Santa ensemble makes quite the fashion statement. Congratulations to Shannon for sharing such a sweet photo, and to Sparkles for what looks like a really successful photoshoot! Next week's theme, eyes. Thank you to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing another wonderful collection of images.
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Council Showdown Looms. Apparently Shire Clerk, Des Erricker had failed to carry out a Council resolution to set up an agency in Airlie Beach to accept Council fees. Division 2 Councillor Karina Shim had criticised this lack of action vehemently and Des Errickson had responded.
Obituary
Lawrence Charles Hopwood died in hospital aged 36.
Heinz Hewbach who built hibiscus Lodge in Airlie Beach, died aged 73.
Crush Delayed. Heavy rainfall [Cannon Valley 65.5mm] last week caused minor delays at the mill with an estimated 300,000 tonnes to be harvested. Water Bans are still in force however.
Race Course Left at Barrier. Council requested State support for a race course between Proserpine and the beach area. This was refused as it would affect race meetings in the Lower Burdekin circuit.
M.P. Warns of Fuel Cost Increases. The Prices Surveillance Authority approved increases in fuel prices of 2.1 cents and 5.8 cents a litre. This could cause a 10% increase in food cost. N.Q. fuel prices may reach 60 cents a litreby Christmas.
Phone At Quarry. Inspector Of Mines requested installation of a phone at the Quarry in case of accident.
Smoke Issue Fanned. Non Smokers Movement of Queensland asked Council to restrict smoking in public places and not to renew cigarette advertisements on Council property.
Collinsville Power Station. Premier, Sir Joh gave an assurance that Collinsville Power Station will not be closed or scaled down.
Top Twirler. Judy Lemmon, one of 6 members of Proserpine Twirlers who entered, won bronze medal in one section of the National Championships at Homebush Sports Centre, Sydney.
Tennis. Local Closed Championships; Champion Ladies Final Colleen McDowall defeated Elspeth Scotford. In the men’s final Jim Skaife beat Gary Scotford.
Whitsunday Sailing Club enjoyed magnificent hospitality of Earlando Resort following the annual race from Airlie. Line honours went to John Welsh on ‘Rhiannon’.
Boathaven Marina.The $200 million, nine year development is soon to be muddy no longer and will finally lose its reputation alongside its traditional name.
Guides and Brownies Revel in The First Whitsunday Hosted Rally. 140 girls gathered at Cool Palms for the day long events which included a hysterical obstacle course. Z
Harvest Festival Queen 1986. There were 16 competition prizes for this year’s Festival Queen topped by: 1 week for two at the Gold Coast.
Queensland Place Names Board proposes the name “Whitsunday” to the town comprising Airlie, Cannonvale, Shutehaven, and Jubilee.
Contributed with thanks by the Proserpine Museum
Neills Building. Photo supplied
The Neill Building perpetuates the memory of one of Proserpine’s astute businessmen, Arthur Francis Neill, who arrived in Proserpine in 1937 to work as an engineer at the Proserpine Sugar Mill. In pre-war days, he conducted his Morris Car and Nuffield Tractor Agency from a small shop at the side of what was then the Grand Theatre (located next door to what is now the Palace Hotel).
Arthur saw active war service with the Royal Australian Engineers having enlisted February 23rd 1942. Upon his return to civilian life, he decided to start his own business in his own building. This was constructed on a block of land he had purchased inChapman Street. Because of wartime shortages of building materials, Arthur manufactured his own concrete bricks on an electric-powered machine that he designed and made himself. Besides providing bricks for the Neill building which he built in 1946, these bricks were used in several other buildings. In 1948, his machine was used to produce bricks for a building and homes in the Ayr district.
Post war, Arthur expanded his interests and became the agent for a wide range of machinery and equipment - Morris, Studebaker, Wolseley and Riley cars, Nuffield and Allis-Chalmers tractors, cutter planters, grubbers, fertiliser, radios and Cold Flame refrigerators. One old-timer remembered his father buying his first truck, a Morris Commercial, from AF Neill and how Arthur fitted wooden planks on the back to make a tray.
Refrigeration and irrigation equipment were Arthur’s speciality. Almost all large refrigeration installations in Bowen, Proserpine and Collinsville were carried out by Arthur Neill.
Arthur’s wife, Olive Gertrude (nee Mc Kenzie), was born in Bundaberg in 1907. She and Arthur were married in 1928. During World War Two, Olive was an equipment assistant (WAAAF corporal) having enlisted on January 2, 1942. She was discharged at her own request on January 22nd 1943, returning to Proserpine where she and Arthur immersed themselves into life in the town.
Although born in Bundaberg (1904), Arthur was of Scottish heritage and loved to play the bagpipes. He even instructed others in the art. At the opening of the new Proserpine Golf Club House and Course in 1952, Arthur provided music on his bagpipes during the ceremony. He famously piped the “crocodile dance”.
The “Proserpine Guardian”, February 1954, reported that the Neills had successfully renewed their commission agent’s licence. Both were very active in promoting tourism in the Proserpine/Whitsunday area. Olive wrote a book called ProserpinePanorama.
Arthur died in his hometown of Bundaberg in 1970 having predeceased Olive by more than twenty years. She passed away in 1991. Both are interred in Brisbane.
After the Neills sold, the building “housed” a number of tenants.
In 1957, former employee, Joe Pirrone, bought the business, renaming it Pironnes Sales and Service. He managed the Nuffield Agency and serviced vehicles in the rear garage until closing in 1960.
The building subsequently housed Goodyear Tyre Service then an army disposal business selling camping gear. The building was later divided into two shops occupied by tenants including Macrossan and Amiet Solicitors (1990–2016) and a Pioneer Permanent agency (later the Bank of Queensland) in 1992. Family Day Care has occupied the southern shop since 1989, temporarily relocating for Cyclone Debbie repairs in 2018. The upstairs remains a residence.
The Neill Building stands as a lasting reminder of a well-known couple who made significant contributions to the Proserpine/Whitsunday area.
Story and photos courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum Society
Dust off the black-and-white outfits, find your favourite fascinator and gather your friends for an afternoon of fashion, food and fun, all while supporting a cause that makes a difference in the community.
The annual Whitsunday Zonta Derby Day Luncheon returns on Saturday, October 31, with a new venue for 2026, welcoming guests to Mantra Club Croc in Cannonvale.
Running from 11.30am to 4pm, the popular event brings together locals for a race-day celebration filled with elegant outfits, delicious food, entertainment and plenty of friendly competition.
Inspired by the excitement and traditions of Derby Day, the luncheon captures the glamour of race day, with guests encouraged to embrace classic black-and-white attire and showcase their style in Fashions on the Field.
Tickets are $95 per person, plus booking fee, and include a welcome glass of bubbles and a delicious luncheon.
Throughout the afternoon, guests can also enjoy raffles, sweepstakes, auctions and door prizes, making it a wonderful opportunity to catch up with friends, meet new people and enjoy a memorable day out.
Beyond the fashion and festivities, organisers say the event has a much bigger purpose.
The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays is part of Zonta International, a global organisation dedicated to advancing the rights of women and girls and creating a world where they can reach their full potential.
Through fundraising, advocacy and community initiatives, Zonta works to improve opportunities for women and girls, supporting education, safety, equality and independence.
Funds raised through the Whitsunday Derby Day Luncheon go directly towards the club’s local and global projects, including educational scholarships and bursaries for students, initiatives supporting local women and children, and assistance for the local women’s refuge.
By attending, guests are helping the club continue this important work while enjoying a fantastic afternoon with friends and fellow community members.
Whether a regular Derby Day attendee or someone looking for a new way to support local initiatives, everyone is welcome to join the celebration.
Tables are expected to be popular, so gather your friends and book early for an afternoon where community spirit takes centre stage.
16th Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine
16th 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
22nd FREE Salsa & Bachata Social, 7:30pm-9pm, Hog’s Breath Café, Airlie Beach
23rd Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine
23rd 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
24th Creedance Clearwater Survival, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
25th Creedance Clearwater Survival, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
27th Sailability Whitsundays
29th FREE Salsa & Bachata Social, 7:30pm-9pm, Hog’s Breath Café, Airlie Beach
30th Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine
30th 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
31st Yacht Rock Revival, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
31st Magic Men Australia, 6:30pm-10pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
16th October
ABH: Dee Jay Bux special event at the sports bar , 8pm-12am
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Phoenix Revival, 8pm-10pm
Grand View Hotel Bowen: DJ Night, 8pm onwards
17th October
ABH: Country Jam Festival, 12pm-5:30pm
ABH: Dee Jay Bux special event at the sports bar , 8pm-12am
Sorrento’s: Josiah, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Phoenix Revival, 8pm-10pm
Grand View Hotel Bowen: Deja vu, 8pm onwards
18th October
ABH: Country Jam Festival, 12pm-5:30pm
Sorrentos: Ash Smith, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Sam McCann, 8pm-10pm
Grand View Hotel Bowen: Zed Charles Band, 1pm-5pm
19th October
Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Sam McCann, 8pm-10pm
20th October
Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Paul Fergus Morris, 8pm-10pm
21th October
Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Paul Fergus Morris, 8pm-10pm
22nd October
ABH: Aaron Saxon, 6:30pm-9:30pm
Sorrentos: Lucy Rose, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Mick Woodridge, 8pm-10pm
Council's online Events Calendar is your go-to guide for what's happening across the Whitsundays. Community groups and event organisers can also submit their events for approval and inclusion, helping locals and visitors stay connected with what's on in the region.
Young dancers are preparing to take the stage in November, with three upcoming productions showcasing months of practice and celebrating five years of the Edge dance studio.
The youngest performers, aged 18 months to six years, will kick things off with the Ready Set Dancers show at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Thursday 1st November.
“That’s a whole lot of cuteness,” said studio owner Emma Whybird.
Older students will then follow that performance with their Celebrate show on 14th and 15th November, as a mark of the studio's fifth anniversary.
The dancing fever will then move to Bowen’s McKenna Hall on Saturday 28th November, featuring students aged two to 18.
Audiences will see a mix of different dances, from ballet, jazz, tap and acro to musical theatre, modern and hip hop, alongside acting and singing.
The shows come as a culmination of the 300 students' persistent preparation since March.
“This is our big one for the year,” Emma said.
“For many of the kids, it’s their first time on stage, so it’s really exciting for them.
“It will be lots of high energy, and loads of fun.”
Tickets for the Proserpine shows are available through the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, while Bowen tickets will go on sale through the studio’s Facebook page.
Photo supplied: ABH
Airlie Beach Hotel has given its former undercover car park a new purpose, transforming the first level into modern studio accommodation with options for families and guests seeking a more affordable stay in the heart of town.
The hotel now has 115 rooms, up from 80, with new family rooms offering a king bed for parents and two sets of bunk beds for the kids. Each new room has an ensuite with a walk-in shower, making things easier for older guests who had found the shower-over-bath setup in the existing rooms difficult to use.
The studios offer a middle ground between the hotel’s budget-friendly courtyard rooms and its ocean and village-view rooms with balconies, giving visitors more choice to suit their stay.
“With all the accommodation that we have, we are trying to be a home away from home for guests,” said the Hotel Manager Sarah Huth.
“We do have a lot of repeat guests, local guests as well from the drive market.
“They come back because they say it’s just so nice and we love staying here.”
Beyond the rooms, guests have access to a pool, with laundry facilities also on the way. The hotel’s pub, sports bar, gaming area and bottle shop are close at hand, while free entertainment gives visitors another reason to head downstairs.
“Everything’s pretty close together and I think that’s another big thing, is that there’s so much to offer in such a small space,” said marketing team rep Skye Ovari.
Locals looking to spend a little more time enjoying Airlie Beach can take advantage of discounted rates for stays of three nights or more during the week. To make the most of the offer, give the hotel a call or book directly through its website.
Friday 9th October
Cuppa Between Chapters
9am - 10am
Enjoy a relaxed morning at Dudley Denny City Library, with a warm cuppa, good company and a chance to unwind with a few chapters of your current read. Whether you're after a friendly chat, a quiet moment with a book or simply a change of scenery, this welcoming gathering is a chance to slow down and enjoy some community connection. Bring along your current read or simply come along for a cuppa and a chat.
Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay
Free Community Suicide Intervention Training
9am - 4pm
This free training will equip participants with practical skills to recognise early warning signs of suicide, support people at risk to access available services and encourage help-seeking before a crisis occurs. The session will also provide an opportunity to build confidence in having supportive conversations, while helping participants identify their own self-care strategies. It is a practical opportunity for community members to build their knowledge and feel better prepared to support others.
Northern Queensland Primary Health Network, 2/45 Victoria Street, Mackay
Sunday 11th October
Walk, Talk And Connect At Bucasia
8am
Head to Bucasia Esplanade for a relaxed morning of walking, conversation and community connection as part of Queensland Mental Health Week 2026. The Walk & Talk will get underway at 8.15am, with no set distance or pace, making it suitable for all ages and walking abilities. Participants can enjoy the outdoors, meet fellow locals and take part in mindfulness prompts along the way, before heading to Beachfront Bar & Restaurant from 9.15am for light refreshments. Coffee will be available to purchase. Prams are welcome, as are dogs on leads, with one dog per person. Registration is appreciated for catering purposes.
Bucasia Esplanade, Bucasia
Highway Country Music Family Night
7pm
Enjoy a fun family night of country music, friendship and good old-fashioned community spirit at the Highway Country Music Family Night. Everyone is welcome to come along, enjoy the music, catch up with friends and make some new ones in a relaxed community setting. Admission is just $5, with a delicious supper provided free on the night, making it a great opportunity to settle in and enjoy an evening of music and friendship.
Bakers Creek Community Hall, Bakers Creek, via Mackay
Monday 12th October
Introduction To The Australian Job Market
9am - 11am
The Neighbourhood Hub presents a practical workshop supporting people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to navigate the Australian employment landscape. Participants will learn about the local job market, connect with others and gain useful knowledge to help strengthen their employment prospects. Whether newly arrived in Australia or looking to build on existing employment opportunities, the session offers practical information and foundational knowledge to help participants better understand the local job market.
The Neighbourhood Hub, 4 George Street, Mackay
Tuesday 13th October
Off The Hook: Knit And Crochet Club
9.30am - 11am
Enjoy a relaxed morning of knitting, crochet, cuppas and friendly conversation at this welcoming monthly club. Materials are provided, or bring along your own project and enjoy getting creative while meeting new people. It is a chance to work on a project, pick up your needles or crochet hook and spend some time in good company. Whether you're an experienced crafter or simply looking for a relaxed morning activity, everyone is welcome.
Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay
The countdown is officially on, with less than two months to go until Mackay welcomes one of the most magical exhibitions ever to hit regional Australia.
On December 4th 2026, Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic will make its Australian premiere at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, bringing more than a century of Disney imagination, storytelling and cinematic history to the region.
For five magical months, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre will showcase more than a century of imagination, storytelling and cinematic history, inviting visitors to step behind the curtain of one of the world's most beloved entertainment companies.
Featuring more than 120 extraordinary artefacts, costumes, props and works of art from the Walt Disney Archives, the exhibition will take visitors on an immersive journey through the stories that have captured hearts across generations.
From Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to Encanto, visitors will encounter the worlds and characters they know and love, while also exploring the remarkable legacies of Pixar, Star Wars and MARVEL.
Across eight imaginatively themed galleries and 12 interactive installations, Disney fans will have the opportunity to experience more than 100 years of history in a way never before seen in Australia.
The exhibition has travelled the globe, captivating audiences in cities including London, Paris, Munich, Chicago, Seoul and Madrid.
Now, remarkably, its next destination is Mackay.
At the official launch event earlier this year, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said he hoped the announcement would encourage people from across the globe to discover exactly what makes the region so special.
“Come and see it for yourself and you will understand why it’s here!”
With at least 100,000 visitors expected across the five-month season, the exhibition is set to deliver an enormous boost to local tourism, hospitality and businesses, while introducing the Mackay region to audiences from across Australia and potentially around the world.
For Disney fans, it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the magic behind the stories that shaped childhoods and continue to inspire new generations.
It will all begin with a mouse, a dream and one very magical destination!
For more information, or to book tickets, visit disney100exhibit.com/mackay
There is something quietly captivating about watching smoke slowly curl into the air, forming shapes that disappear almost as quickly as they arrive.
This fitting image for the theme ‘Aromas in Focus’ from this week’s winning photographer Alissa Tominlinson, embodies those delicate whispers rising from an ornate incense burner.
Surrounded by pink roses and tiny white flowers, the scene is so vivid you can smell the fragrance off the canvas.
The rich colour of the petals and intricate metalwork give the eye plenty to be mesmerized with, while the drifting smoke adds a little mystery to the scene.
Congratulations to this Alissa for capturing such a beautiful moment of stillness! The next theme is Glitter and Sparkles, so seek out something shiny.
Thank you once again to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing another wonderful collection of images.
New Record For Mill ? Proserpine Sugar Mill Acting General Manager, Kevin Howell predicted a record through put of 1,150,000 tonnes by the end of season, which was due to new cane varieties 1. Also heavy rainfall brought a premature end to last season leaving a standover of 90,000 tonnes.
One Crash Leads To Another. A council gravel truck crashed in Kara Crescent, Airlie Beach. A crane attempting to right the truck went out of control and collided with a fire truck, a stationery MEB truck and then a boat. No-one was injured.
Shute Drowning. An English tourist dived off the jetty doing a forward somersault came up then disappeared and was eventually found on the bottom about 15 minutes later.
Collinsville Road Link. Plans to close the power station could put the Collinsville- Proserpine Road in doubt.
Job Stats For Cannonvale. June Quarter job figures from Cannonvale CES showed that 749 people enrolled of whom 455 obtained jobs.
Keep Your Cool. Anticipating hot weather in the coming months [Tuesday’s temperature was 33 degrees] local firm Smith’s Electrical took delivery of 1.5 tonnes of airconditioners valued at $30000 following another consignment 3 weeks ago worth $12000.
Terraced Garden Creation. Members of Whitsunday Garden Club, Bob and Shirley Hudson have created a delightful terraced garden out of rugged terrain which contained a variety of multi coloured blooms.
Daydream Development. A major development application has been made which would promote Daydream Island to the forefront of local tourism. It includes restaurants, cocktail bar, and executive suites, take 5 years to complete and cost up to $25million.
South Molle Invades Bowen; on Sunday 80 Islanders steamed up the coast aboard their high speed catamaran ‘Capricornia ‘and landed on Horseshoe Bay Beach to engage locals in outrigger, paddle ski, men’s and women’s tug’o’war,and tyre tube races among numerous other contests.
Tangles Visit. Special guest speaker at the WTA Dinner to be held at the Reef Gateway Hotel will be former test cricketer Max [Tangles] Walker.
Aquaplanning MV Jane in 1949
The MV “Jane” was a 14.4 metre launch; an ex-navy wooden work boat. Local lore heavily maintained that the vessel had originally served as the personal boat of General Douglas MacArthur during his command in the Pacific theatre. Whether completely factual or enhanced for tourism, this legendary pedigree made her a highly appealing attraction for early holidaymakers.
Skip Moody brought the “Jane” to the Whitsundays in 1946 to support Daydream Island Resort, using her for early day trips, coral-viewing cruises and aquaplaning. She became a key vessel in the post-World War Two Whitsunday tourism boom, operating as a cruise boat until she was wrecked at Stonehaven, Hook Island, during Cyclone Ada.
Rupe Wilson, owner of a baker’s shop in Proserpine, skippered “Jane”, while Jack Stewart, underground manager of the then-thriving Dittmer Mine, regularly took tourists out aboard her. As Jack did not hold an official marine ticket, Skip was forced to accompanythe trips to ensure the operation remained legal.
In 1948, the Moodys sold Daydream Island to Barrier Reef Islands Pty Ltd, an Ansett Transport Industries subsidiary, which added “Jane” to its resort fleet. After cyclone damage in January 1950 drove her ashore, Ansett reshaped and redecked her with teak from a World War Two wreck before basing her at Hayman Island.
Cyclone Ada Claims a Whitsunday Icon
On January 17, 1970, the MV “Jane” sheltered from Cyclone Ada at Stonehaven, Hook Island, alongside her sister launch, the 11.4 metre “Little J” (MV Jillian), and “Island Gypsy”. Skipper Bill Hutchinson and deckhand Trevor Buschel repeatedly reset her dragging anchor as the wind intensified, but conditions soon became too dangerous. The chain snapped, “Jane” turned broadside, rolled heavily, and a fuel tank broke loose and burst, flooding the vessel with diesel. At 12.30am on January 18, the wheelhouse windows failed and the wheelhouse disintegrated, forcing the crew into the water. They clung first to a mast section and later to a fish-box grating before reaching the northeastern shore of Stonehaven near dawn, delayed by torrents of rainwater pouring off Hook Island. There they found another survivor, the skipper of a wrecked barge also sheltering at Stonehaven.
The next day, a rescue mission was mounted from Hayman Island using the only undamaged boat, the island’s speedboat. Ray Buschel, father of Trevor, and the boat’s driver headed for Stonehaven and picked up the three survivors all of whom fortunately recovered from their ordeal.
Her smaller sister boat, “Little J”, capsized in the same bay with the loss of its skipper and deckhand, though that hull was miraculously salvaged and restored decades later.
But not so for the “Jane”. With her superstructure torn off and hull badly holed, she was abandoned where she lay. She was stripped of her motor and any other useful gear and left to rot. While the wreck sat on the island for many years and was heavily documented by local historians, there are no longer any physical remnants of the MV “Jane” remaining on the beach at Stonehaven.
A Final Piece Preserved
The ship’s historic great fore peak knee was later officially retrieved from Stonehaven by John Williams and local historian, Ray Blackwood. John donated the prow to the Proserpine Historical Museum where it is displayed as a tribute to traditional maritime carpentry. Hand-selected, shaped and crafted rather than factory-made, it represents a different, more artistic era of boatbuilding. The prow and historical photographs of the wreck at Stonehaven are now preserved at the museum.
Story sourced from Museum archives and past patron, Ray Blackwood. Photo sourced from Museum archives.
The Mackay Line Dancers set to living up ABH. Photo supplied: Mackay Line Dancers
Airlie Beach is set for a taste of Nashville this October, with the Jack Daniel’s Country Jam Festival giving country fans every reason to dust off their boots and grab their hats.
Taking over the Airlie Beach Hotel on Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 October, the free festival will feature live country-rock, Dolly Parton and Brooks & Dunn tribute shows, Nashville favourites and line dancing, with country DJ sets also keeping the dance floor moving on Friday and Saturday nights.
The weekend kicks off a bit earlier than usual, with Australia’s number one country DJ, Dee Jaye Bux, spining the country twang at the sports bar from 8pm till midnight.
Billed Australia’s number one country DJ, he’ll mix today’s biggest country hits with familiar classics to keep the dance floor moving. Having worked alongside some of the biggest stars in the industry, such as Jimmy Barnes, Tim McGraw, Luke Combs, John Farnham and many more, he brings a range of the countries finest to the decks.
For those keen to put their boots to work, the Mackay Line Dancers will bring a few extra steps to the dance floor, offering free lessons from 8–9pm on Friday and Saturday nights.
Formed in 2022, the group welcomes dancers of all abilities, so whether you know your way around a line dance or are trying it for the first time, there’s room to join in.
“We encourage everyone to get up and dance with us,” said instructor and founder of the group, Deb Wookey.
“As long as you can count to 4, you can line dance, so don’t be shy.”
Kicking off the live music from midday on both Saturday and Sunday at 12pm, the Southern Line Country Rock Show will bring a taste of American country rock to the foreshore favourite.
Led by the Chris Staff Band, the show promises plenty of guitar-driven energy to get feet tapping before the musicians return at 2pm for the Australian Brooks & Dunn Tribute Show.
With rich harmonies and a full live band, the tribute will deliver favourites including Boot Scootin’ Boogie, Neon Moon, Brand New Man and Only in America, giving fans plenty to sing along to and line dancers another reason to hit the floor.
Between the bands, Joanne Elbers will bring the big hair, cheeky humour and unmistakable songs of Dolly Parton to the stage in a tribute to one of country music’s most beloved stars.
Following Parton’s passing in August at age 80, the performance holds a deeper meaning for Elbers, who has been portraying Dolly since the mid-1990s.
“In the past my performances have been about doing something I love and enjoy and hopefully bring some joy to my audience,” Elbers said.
“Now I feel we almost have a mission to represent the music the story and the heart of Dolly as she deserves and to carry on her Legacy that she worked so hard to create.”
Having taken her Classic Queens of Country show to Tamworth, Roma, North Queensland and beyond, Elbers will perform favourites including Jolene, 9 to 5 and Coat of Many Colours, backed by the musicians behind the Australian Brooks & Dunn and Southern Line shows.
“As a huge Dolly fan who loves not just her music and her down to earth character but I connect with the cheeky and light hearted manner in which she portrays herself on stage to her audience,” Elbers said.
“I strive to present my best Dolly impersonation with a touch of Tennessee accent, big boobs, big hair and plenty of Dolly personality.”
The afternoons round out to the sounds of today’s country scene when Brother Hollow takes the stage at 3.15pm on both days for The Nashville Experience.
Their set draws on the likes of Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton and The Chicks, with a few older favourites woven through the afternoon.
Joining them is special guest Victoria McGee, whose selection spans generations of country women, from Gretchen Wilson and Shania Twain to Lainey Wilson and Ella Langley. Together, they’ll give fans a chance to hear some of the songs shaping country music today alongside those that helped pave the way.
All Photo credit: Rachael Smith
Fauna Rescue Whitsundays brought wildlife awareness and family entertainment together at its Family Fun Day at Coral Sea Marina on Saturday 3rd October.
From face painting and crafts to a scavenger hunt, there was plenty to keep the kids busy while families browsed the stalls or kicked back to enjoy the live entertainment.
The day also gave families a chance to get to know the volunteers behind Fauna Rescue Whitsundays, who care for sick, injured and orphaned native animals and help them return to the wild.
Founded in 2001, the group runs a 24-hour wildlife emergency hotline, connecting people who find an animal in need with volunteers ready to help.
www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/family-fun-for-fauna-rescue
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