Young artists explored creativity during the Paint with Kate school holiday workshops at Gordon White Library and Sarina Library, guided by artist Kate Kennedy. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council Libraries

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Young creatives across the region embraced colour and imagination during the recent Paint with Kate workshops hosted by Mackay Regional Council Libraries at Gordon White Library and Sarina Library.

The vibrant school holiday sessions welcomed children aged eight to 12 for a hands-on painting experience led by professional artist Kate Kennedy, who guided participants as they explored colour, creativity and self-expression.

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In a statement shared by Mackay Regional Council Libraries, the workshops were described as a bright highlight of the holiday program.

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A representative from Mackay Regional Council Libraries said, “The Paint with Kate workshops lit up both Gordon White Library and Sarina Library, filling each space with colour, imagination and big smiles.”

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Children were encouraged to experiment with paint while building confidence in a relaxed and supportive environment.

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“Kids aged 8–12 enjoyed a joyful, hands-on painting experience with professional artist Kate Kennedy, building confidence, experimenting with colour, and letting their creativity shine.”

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“Across both libraries, young artists rolled up their sleeves and proudly took home their very own masterpieces.”  

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“A huge thank you to Kate and to all our talented participants for making both libraries such vibrant places these school holidays.”

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Last year’s Festival of Arts program was launched at a special event at Artspace Mackay. Join in this year at the Civic Centre grounds on Friday 8th May. Photo supplied

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Mackay region residents are invited to get an early taste of what’s planned for the 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts at a launch event on Friday.

The event will take place at the Civic Centre lawn on Friday 8th May, at 6pm.

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Mayor Greg Williamson said residents are invited to join in the free event where they could pick up a program hot off the presses.

“Attendees on the night will be able to purchase early bird tickets to shows at a pop-up box office on site,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“Anyone who purchases a ticket on the night will go into the draw to win a fantastic prize,” he said.

“They will also be able to taste for the first time the new limited edition festival liqueur by the Sarina Sugar Shed.”

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There will be food, entertainment and a licenced bar at Foodspace, making it a fun evening for the whole family.

Mayor Williamson said the Mackay Festivals team has been working tirelessly for more than 12 months to bring together an amazing range of shows and events for 2026.

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“We keep them all under wraps until the program launch event, and I can guarantee festival goers will not be disappointed,” he said.

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The festival will run from July 1st to August 9th at venues all around the Mackay region.

The launch event is free to attend with the program available to pick up on the evening and at locations around Mackay from 13th May.

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Young people are invited to get creative and show their appreciation for first responders ahead of Thank a First Responder Day on 10^th June. Photo supplied

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Children and young people across the Mackay Shire are being invited to channel their creativity into a meaningful cause as part of this year’s Thank a First Responder Day.

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The Young Voices Art Showcase is calling on local youth to create artworks that celebrate and thank the first responders who work tirelessly to keep communities safe.

Whether it’s through a colourful painting, a striking photograph or a digital design, participants are encouraged to capture what first responders mean to them and their community.

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The competition highlights the important role emergency services play across regional areas like Mackay, where strong community ties and local support networks are essential, particularly during challenging times.

Themes include acts of kindness, appreciation and community connection, giving young people the opportunity to reflect on the impact of those who respond when it matters most.

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Two winners will each receive a $200 book voucher, but organisers say the real value lies in giving young people a voice and a way to show their appreciation.

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Entries close on 24th May, ahead of Thank a First Responder Day on 10th June. Visit fortemaustralia.org.au for more information.

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Glamour, generosity and a touch of 007 sophistication set the tone for the 2026 Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball, which returned in dazzling style at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.

Widely regarded as one of the region’s most anticipated social events, the annual gala delivered an unforgettable evening of elegance, entertainment and heartfelt giving, with guests stepping out in striking Bond inspired fashion.

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Hosted by Australian comedian Dave O'Neil and featuring live music from Beccy & The Jets, the evening sparkled with high energy performances, lively auctions, casino style fundraising games and a dance floor that kept the celebration going late into the night.

Presented by Mackay Regional Council, the much-loved event once again showcased Mackay’s generous spirit, raising vital funds for two deserving charities.

Stylish, spirited and purpose driven, the 2026 ball proved the region’s signature red carpet event is only getting better with time!

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A Licence To Thrill For A Powerful Community Cause

At The 2026 Mayors Charity Ball

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Last Saturday evening, the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre shimmered with glitz and glamour as guests dressed in sharp tuxedos and 007-inspired gowns arrived for the 2026 Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball.

The Casino Royale–themed evening transformed the venue into a scene of elegance and intrigue, where every raised glass supported a greater cause. Guests stepped into a world of Bond-style mystery, with many agreeing the night was the best yet as attendees eagerly pursued clues in the interactive “Assassin” mission game.  

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Determined detectives studied their mission cards, scanning the room for subtle hints in hopes of identifying the hidden assassin and claiming the coveted prize.

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Beyond the intrigue, the evening served a powerful purpose, raising vital funds for The Salvation Army Family Violence Service and The Neighbourhood Community Hub Food Diversion Program.

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Guests enjoyed a three-course gala dinner with drinks flowing throughout the evening, while Brisbane band Beccy & The Jets kept the atmosphere vibrant on the dance floor. Much-loved comedian Dave O'Neil delivered laughs as master of ceremonies, blending humour, crowd interaction and sharp observations.

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With auctions, raffles and casino-style fundraising games adding to the excitement, the evening proved once again that Mackay certainly knows how to combine glamour with generosity!

See the rest of the photos in the gallery here:

Part 1: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/a-licence-to-thrill-for-a-powerful-community-cause-at-the-2026-mayors-charity-ball-part-1

Part 2: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/a-licence-to-thrill-for-a-powerful-community-cause-at-the-2026-mayors-charity-ball-part-2

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox attended the Buck Off Melanoma event held in Bowen over the weekend. Photo supplied  

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Engines roared and spirits soared as Bowen came alive for its annual Buck Off Melanoma fundraiser last Sunday. This year’s highlight, the Convoy 4 Melanoma, united the community in a powerful display of support, with trucks and vehicles of all sizes parading through town, horns blaring and crowds cheering.  

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox joined the celebration, praising its uplifting energy. Organisers worked tirelessly to expand the event’s reach, making it more inclusive and impactful than ever. With live music, family activities, and unwavering community backing, the day drove home one vital message: together, we can fight melanoma.

Read the rest of the story here: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/article/buck-off-melanoma

Photo source: Facebook

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Queensland’s luxury property market continues to reach new heights, with Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty at the centre of the region’s latest milestone sale.

The agency has set a new benchmark in the Whitsundays, surpassing its own 2024 record with the recent sale of Element Hill on Hamilton Island. This achievement follows the high-profile transaction of Villa De La Mer in Airlie Beach, which sold for close to $15 million.

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Known for handling some of the region’s most prestigious properties, Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty has played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of the Whitsundays as a destination for luxury real estate. Their strategic marketing campaigns, extensive buyer networks and persistence throughout lengthy sales campaigns have proven critical in securing premium outcomes.

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The earlier sale of Villa De La Mer exemplified this approach, attracting strong national interest and multiple offers over an extended period. By maintaining confidence in the property’s value and targeting the right buyers, the agency was able to achieve a record-breaking result that exceeded previous regional benchmarks.

This latest sale further cements Sotheby’s reputation as a leader in the prestige property sector, not just within Queensland but across Australia. As demand for high-end coastal homes continues to grow, their influence is helping to reshape expectations and pricing across the Whitsundays.

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For the local community, these results signal increasing confidence in the region’s property market and reinforce its standing on the national stage.

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Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty has set a new Whitsundays property record with the sale of Element Hill on Hamilton Island, surpassing its own 2024 benchmark.

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Melbourne band ‘Monroe’ being announced as 2025 Passport to Airlie Winners Photo supplied

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‘Passport to Airlie’ opens career-launching national search

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The Airlie Beach Festival of Music has opened its entries for Passport to Airlie. This opportunity is designed to uncover and support original artists across Australia, offering unsigned musicians the chance to perform at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music from November 6th-8th.

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Every musician starts somewhere - why not Airlie Beach?  

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2023 winners, Avalanche, are a ‘case-in-point’, entering the ‘Passport’ experience as a four-piece hard rock band from Western Sydney, and emerging with widespread media coverage, airplay on both mainstream and community radio charts, and a support role with Airbourne on their 2026 European ‘Armed to the teeth’ tour.  

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Passport to Airlie applications are open to original acts nationwide, with the sole criteria that no cover songs or tributes are allowed.  

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The competition starts with regional heats, held from June to September across Australia.  

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The act who wins their regional heat must be available to travel to Airlie Beach from November 6th-8th, where they will receive four nights’ accommodation, VIP tickets to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music (valued at $1,150 each), and go head-to-head with the other regional winners for the chance to win the ultimate prize.  

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Judged by a panel of industry professionals (with previous judges including Superjesus frontwoman, Sarah McLeod, and Dave Gleeson from The Screaming Jets), the overall winner secures a professional photography package, a main stage performance slot in 2027, and tiered prize money based on act size, with $500 awarded to solo artists, $1,000 to duos, $1,500 to trios and $2,000 to full bands.  

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To enter, head to www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au and tab to the Passport to Airlie landing page.  

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This week I’d like to focus more on the new Book Club segment. Please keep submitting both your poetry and book reviews. It is always a pleasure to see the immense creative passion across the region. This week’s book review is from Lisa Mitchell who runs her own ‘Bookstagram’ account where she shares new releases, reviews and other book related content. You can find her content on Instagram via the handle @serenity.of.books

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It is really inspiring to see Australian creators perform so well on the global stage. I have always been a strong advocate for fostering arts and culture within Australia. As a country that sometimes seems to view the arts as a lesser priority, we have always been at risk of a ‘brain drain’, in which creatives head overseas for better opportunities. I too have been tempted by such a move, however I’ve realised that Australia is my home, and I think art can be a powerful way to make sense of who we are and where we come from.  

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We need art made by Australians that interrogates what it means to live in this country. I think there are too many Australian artists trying to replicate American or British work. That’s been done. We need stories that truly reflect the landscape, the environment and the history.  

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Creative talent is everywhere in Australia. We just need to nurture it.

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‘At once a gripping mystery, an exquisitely written ode to the natural world, and a taut, psychological thriller, Wild Dark Shore is a triumph….’ -- This is how one of my favourite authors, Hannah Kent, describes this book, and I couldn’t agree more. I’ve discovered a new favourite author in Charlotte McConaghy.

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Dominic Salt and his three children are the last caretakers of Shearwater, a remote island near Antarctica that shelters the world’s largest seed bank. As they prepare the seeds for relocation, isolation weighs heavily: Raff wrestles with heartbreak, Fen seeks solace among the seals, Orly clings to his love of botany, and Dominic remains trapped in grief. Their world shifts when Rowan, a mysterious woman, washes ashore during a storm. As bonds of trust form, long-buried secrets emerge—sabotaged radios, a grave, and Dominic’s hidden past. With the storms closing in, the family must decide whether they can trust one another enough to protect the seeds and forge a new beginning.

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The island’s wild, elemental beauty and the fragile family story unfolding against it completely captured my imagination, pulling me deeper until I was as invested in the setting as in the characters—on edge, as with any great thriller. I finished this book weeks ago and still can’tstop thinking about Shearwater. I’ve recommended it to everyone I know, because no words I can find do it justice. All I can say is: read it for yourself—it’s an absolute gem.

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The photo of the week winner is Elise Dunckis (what a great run she is having) for theme ‘Golden Hour’. The photo was taken at Glenden.  

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Contributed by Whitsunday Amateur Photographers

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Support For Rodeo. Proserpine Chamber of Commerce will support the advent of the Australian Championship Rodeo in May with a Main Street Mardi Gras, late night shopping, increased lighting and taped music for the Main Street Shopping Centre. Local poet Reg Beck described the occasion in verse [page 1]

More Main Street Promotion. Overland coaches and Proserpine Carrying were tending to avoid Main Street if possible. Trees planted along the edge of footpaths not concrete planters was considered, as were signs on the Highway.

Big Surprise. If you go down to the Cultural Hall today you’re sure of a big surprise. Family Day Care Scheme is hosting its first Annual Teddy Bear’s Picnic on Saturday May 17th.

Country Press Impressed With Proserpine. Visiting journalists from all over Queensland were impressed with the local facilities, especially the Cultural Hall foyer, the RSL, and the Jupp Street sporting area, but the highlight was undoubtedly the cruise aboard “Highland Warrior” around the islands and the reef.

Carnival Capers. Cannonvale School is busy preparing entertainment and stalls for the annual school fete on the Saturday before Mother’s Day.

Shire Engineer Appointed. New contractual engineer, Don Bullock saw the role as a challenge.

Hayman Island. Ansett’s ‘super-luxury ocean transport, the ‘Sun Goddess’ promoted the island over May Day Weekend with pleasure cruises out of Mackay and Airlie. Also WTA were organising a big promotion with help from their sponsor TAA.

High School Report. Whitsunday School Trials took place for hockey, squash and soccer and the North Queensland Netball trials took place at Ingham where Katrina and Tammy Mullins were both selected to travel to Brisbane in the NQ team.

Lisa Meets Miss Australia. Whitsunday entrant for Miss Australia Lisa Marquart met Miss Australia for afternoon tea in Mackay on Saturday.

ARL. Airlie Bloods went down narrowly to Mackay City 62-54 at the Proserpine Showgrounds on Saturday. ARL regional coaching director gave Airlie Little Bleeders a coaching session at Cannonvale School.

Whitsunday Sailing Club. 100 boats of different sizes took part in squally conditions. The only division won outright by WSC in the May Regatta was the Stingray Class taken out by Brendan Howes and Stuart Lock.

A comprehensive plan for developing the Whitsunday coast was overdue. This was the liberal party opinion.

A Yellow Submarine. The arrival of a twenty metre long yellow submarine was immanent and should prove ‘a great asset’ to the Whitsundays.

Last Swimming Carnival of Season. This took place in Ayr. Local swimmers Marcus Mudie and Michelle Perkins won several medals. Michelle Mudie, Donna Nosworthy and Daniel Perkins were among other noteworthy performers.

Three Track Race Meeting. Proserpine Motor Cycle Club held this at Dray Park, attracting 45 entries including 5 speedway side car teams one of which is the only ladies sidecar team in Queensland comprising of Debbie Broome and Tamara Gailes. Russell Magee won the unlimited section and Clint Burke won the Pee Wees.

Bowls: winners of the Ernie Gasper Memorial Shield were Val De Boni, Peter Sala, Renzo Spala and John Daffara.

Whitsunday Open Squash Tournament drew over 80 nominations to a heavily sponsored event won by John Towler from Gladstone.

Junior Soccer. Whitsunday entered 2 teams in the traditional Mackay Under 10 Carnival in which goalie Neil McBride and forward Connie Hinschen played particularly well.

Pony Club took part in the Borthwick Cup with Peter Van Drie and Kelly Hinschen showing well.

NQ Archery Championships hosted by Whitsunday Archery Club were sent indoors by wet weather to Proserpine Primary school assembly area where 32 archers let fly.

Rugby League. Foley Shield Mackay Sea Eagles beat Whitsunday 16-2

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Fosca Zeglio Show Ball Queen 1950s

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The opportunity to dress up in one’s finest attire and dance the night away has long been a much-anticipated occasion. Our forefathers relished this opportunity to change from their everyday clothes – functional yet often dull and worn – and escape the humdrum of the daily grind of life and work. Records from our past paint a picture of a vibrant society in which people often enjoyed a ball a month!  

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In the early 1900s, one of the most eagerly awaited balls was the Show Ball. The inaugural Proserpine Show Ball was held in 1910 at the Oddfellows Hall; the year of the first Proserpine Show. Papers described details of the gowns worn by the women who attended. In 1911, the “Proserpine Guardian” stated that the Show Ball was the most successful ball ever held in Proserpine. About 130 people danced until the small hours of the morning.  

The Great Depression of 1929 did not appear to dampen spirits with the Show Ball of that year heralded as “a great success. About 200 people spent a most enjoyable evening, the weather for dancing being ideal. Mesdames Mackenzie, Hinschen, and Holmes were kept very busyserving out refreshments. The sum of £28 was taken at the door.” (“The Daily Mercury” July 10, 1929)

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In May 1948, “Proserpine Guardian” reported on the first show ball for years. In 1949, the popularity of its return was again demonstrated in the article below.  

The following year, 1950, was no exception with nearly 400 attendees and door takings of £93. A locally composed foxtrot added a novel feature to the evening. Composed and played by N. Ruge and Mr. W. Biggs (Jnr), it proved popular with dancers. Mrs. A. V. Perske wrote words for the piece, and it was intended to seek publication rights.

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The tradition of selecting a “Belle of the Ball” at the Show Ball appears to have developed over time, though the exact year of its introduction remains unclear. However, Show Whitsunday’s 100 Year publication offers some insight, recording that in the 1950s, Miss Fosca Zegliowas a popular recipient of the title. As Show Queen, she won a week’s cruise aboard “Esmeralda” donated by Mr and Mrs E H Gray; Mr Gray being President of the Show Association. Although there has been no Show Queen competition for many years, in its heyday, especially from the late 80s to the 90s, it was a keenly anticipated showtime event and an important fundraiser held at the then Proserpine Cultural Hall.  

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After a lengthy hiatus, thanks to the energies and enthusiasm of a young committee, the Show Ball made its return to the social calendar in May of 2021. With a changed venue and a different format, interest in the event has been reignited. This year, on May 23, the showgrounds will once again be the venue, and “Pretty in the Paddock” promises to be a fun-filled evening.  

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Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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Friday 8 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)

Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (8pm)

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Saturday 9 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Oz Boyz (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Grandview Hotel: Zed Charles Band (8pm)

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Sunday 10 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Oz Boyz (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: Andrew Baldino (1pm – 5pm)

Grandview Hotel: Nite Johnson (1pm – 5pm)

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Monday 11 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)

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Tuesday 12 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)

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Wednesday 13 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)

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Thursday 14  May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

Sorrento: Lucy Rose (1pm – 5pm)

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May

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12 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
12 Bowen Community Centre Open Day, 9.30am-11.30am
13 Luke Kidgell – Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:30pm
16 & 17 Whitsunday Equestrian Group T-Shirt Competition, Cannonvalley Pony Club, 8am- 4pm
18 Placing of the flags, Proserpine Cemetery, 9am
19 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am
19 Whitsunday Whale Heritage Area Information Night, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6:30pm
21 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am
23 Proserpine Show Ball, Proserpine Showgrounds, 6pm
24 Community Volunteer Expo, Bowen Sunday Markets
26 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
29 Speed Networking, Lumos Café, 7:30-8:30am
29 WSPN BBQ, Shirtfront Solutions Parking, 6.30am

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June

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3 Social Seniors, Cannonvale, 9.30am
6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Songwriting Summit, 9.30am-4pm
6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Concert & Conversation, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6pm - 8pm
9 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
16 Collinsville Open Cut Free Event
18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am
23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

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Brian’s band ‘Uncanny X-Men' were a staple of 80s rock. Photo supplied

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Singer Brian Mannix is a staple of Australia’s cultural history. Whether it is acting, rock n roll vocals or musical theatre, Brian has had a vast and brilliant career.

Best known as the lead singer of Australian band ‘Uncanny X-Men’, Brian is renowned for classics such as ’50 Years’ and ‘Work’.  

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He has also appeared as a guest role in the Australian soap opera Neighbours and famously performed at the 2006 AFL Grand Final.  

It was only natural that he would become a heavy-hitter performer for the Absolutely 80s show.  

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“Scott and I did a couple of shows together and we thought – we should do this with more people,” Brian said.  

“Scott’s a whizz-bang booking agent and manager, so we thought we’d give it a go. Here we are 20 years later.”  

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Brian will now head to Airlie Beach with the group, performing in a place he has always had deep admiration for.  

“I love coming to Airlie Beach. It’s a great little town, beautiful weather.”  

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As a certified member of Australia’s music history, Brian reflected on what made his period of music so great.  

“The circumstances were great in the 70s and 80s. It was because you had Countdown. Most families only had one television. 3 million people would all tune in to Countdown every week.  

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“Radio was also so strong back in the day. They would always be playing new music. Radio, Countdown, Hey Hey It’s Saturday – these all produced the stars.”

Brian expressed admiration for his musical co-stars who he continues to tour with as part of Absolutely 80s.  

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“Scott and I are really good friends. Ally is a lovely person and incredibly smart. Wilbur’s always got something to say – he’s a good talker and a great sax player.”  

The singer can’t wait to participate in a big birthday bash.  

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“I love birthday parties. I feel very privileged to be coming. I reckon we’ll have a lot of fun,” he said.

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Brian will also perform the following weekend alongside Scott for their Back2Back Show. This is a special show featuring the singer’s hits along with covers Australian classics by icons such as INXS, Dragon, Models, AC/DC, Billy Idol, Spandau Ballet, Simple Minds and A-ha.  

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