Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Having grown up in Germany and Switzerland, Lukas developed an early appreciation for the importance of finding the right place to call home. Having experienced relocation firsthand, he understands both the excitement and challenges that come with moving. Fluent in English and German, Lukas enjoys working with a wide range of clients and prides himself on being able to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. For the past 13 years, Lukas has proudly called the Whitsundays home. Over that time, he has developed a deep understanding of the region, its lifestyle, and its property market. His strong local knowledge allows him to guide buyers and sellers with confidence while helping them make informed decisions. Before entering the real estate industry, Lukas earned a degree in Marine Engineering and built a successful career in the maritime sector. That experience shaped the professional approach he brings to his work today, instilling a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a practical problem-solving mindset that benefits his clients throughout their property journey. Lukas joined the TAYLORS team in 2020 as a Sales Assistant, working closely with Brad Sobott and gaining valuable industry knowledge and market insight. In 2025, he stepped into his role as a standalone agent, bringing his experience, dedication, and enthusiasm to every transaction. Passionate about helping people achieve their property goals, Lukas is committed to delivering a smooth, transparent, and rewarding experience for both buyers and sellers in the Whitsundays community.
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This poem from my Grandpa Bob is entitled ‘Birth’. Thanks to my parents for supplying it. I’d also like to dedicate this corner to my Mum, who lost her father and brother in a very short span of time. This week’s corner is for her. BIRTH this is my hand this is my eye wave the one with the other’s cry noise is anger flood is kindness joy is vision fear is blindness wet is short dry is long night a silence day a song good is a smile bad is a frown the first lift up the second put down knowing is start not knowing is stop interesting is pick up boring is drop looking is memory hiding is forgetting wrong is stopping right is letting that is wind this is rain there is light here is pain that is laughter this a sigh how much to know before I die
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Rising star Katie Jayne is set to take to the stage at Airlie Beach Hotel for two free shows, guaranteed to entertain. The eclectic performer boasts an impressive resume, having given standout performances at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Deni Ute Muster, PBR Australia and major festival rodeo stages across the country. Katie began her music career at the age of 25 when she moved to London, forming her first band Southern Junction who went on to play at the Isle of Wight Festival and London O2 Arena. After returning to Australia, Katie found her voice as a solo artist and hasn’t looked back since. “I’m at a point now where I know who I am and what I have to say and I’m ready to just go out there and play as many shows as I can around Australia”, said Katie. With her unique blend of modern country fire with traditional soul, Katie Jayne is fast becoming one of the most exciting new voices in modern Australian country music. With over 400,000 Spotify streams on her latest single, KIX Country Top 20 chart success and high rotation on CMC, Katie has cemented herself as a rising star. “It’s so great to be able to put on a country show in Airlie Beach. Australian artists are often overlooked in country music so it’s wonderful to have this opportunity. I’m very excited to bring my music up there.” Katie encourages everyone to come for an afternoon of high energy and no-nonsense country storytelling. “Come along, even if you’re not a country fan. We don’t take ourselves too seriously. We just like to have fun and play.” WHAT: Katie Jayne, two Free Shows WHEN: Saturday 21st March, Sunday 22nd March, 2pm – 5.30pm WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel The Airlie Beach Hotel will also feature an additional special treat with the Mackay Line Dancers. This fun event will give everyone a chance to get up and have fun in between band sets, with inclusive dance party’s for everyone to get involved WHAT: Mackay Line Dancers, Free Lessons WHEN: Saturday 21st March, Sunday 22nd March, 11am-12pm, 2.50pm-3.20pm, 4.10-4.40pm WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel Captions Rising Australian country artist Katie Jayne will perform two free shows at the Airlie Beach Hotel later this month. Photo supplied
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When the lights rise and the music begins at this year’s Dancing With Heart, one familiar local face will be stepping onto the stage with courage, glamour and a little theatrical flair. By day, Janine works as Sales Manager with Seven Network, helping local businesses connect with audiences across the region through television advertising. Many residents also recognise her from the weekly “What’s On This Weekend” segment on 7 Local News, where her vibrant personality shines as she highlights the events bringing the community together. While her confident and bubbly nature is well known, Janine admits the journey to the dance floor has pushed her well outside her comfort zone. “Most people see the confident bubbly side of me, but what they don’t see is how much I push through nerves and self-doubt behind the scenes.” Her routine promises plenty of personality and theatrical flair. “Oh, we are bringing drama! My routine is theatrical and glamorous! Think sass, storytelling, big expressions,” she says. “And yes… I’ll be gracefully (hopefully!) making my way down the stairs. If I don’t? Well, at least it’ll be memorable and I promise I’ll fall with flair.” What have you found the most difficult? Remembering the choreography while my brain is busy going, “Don’t mess up, don’t mess up!”… I truly want to do it justice. What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation? That the funds raised stay right here in our community, directly supporting local hospital services, patients and families. You never know when you or someone you love might need that care, which makes the Foundation’s work so meaningful. It’s also incredibly inspiring to stand alongside the other contestants as we’re all stepping outside our comfort zones and working together to raise as much as we can for such an important cause.
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Known around Mackay as much for his quick wit as his business acumen, Michael Kerr has spent 26 years supplying electrical products to the local industry. Off the clock, he’s equally active on the field, coaching senior rugby league at Wests – a role that keeps him connected to the community in a very hands-on way.
“I’ve been selling electrical products to the local electrical industries for 26 years,” Michael says.
Coaching at Wests Senior Rugby League also keeps him involved with local families and players.
Now, he’s hoping to be remembered for one very special move: the worm.
“I’d like to be remembered for the worm.”
Despite not coming from a dance background, Michael has embraced rehearsals with enthusiasm.
“I’ve really enjoyed the process of learning the dance moves. I have no real style, but Dolly from Fame has found a way to move a besser block around a dance floor,” he jokes.
For Michael, the experience has been equal parts fun, community-minded, and a chance to stretch beyond his comfort zone, all for a cause that touches every local family.
What’s been the most challenging?
The soreness.
What do you value most about My Hospital Foundations work?
The funds raised by the foundation go towards purchasing new, up-to-date hospital equipment, which enables the hospital to provide better services to its patients. The more the community gets behind it, the better the hospital can serve everyone, and that’s very important, because at some stage, we all will need the hospital’s services.
If there’s a community event happening in Mackay, chances are Sharon Johnston isn’t far away. As Manager of Public Relations at Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd, known locally as Daly Bay, Sharon plays a vital role in connecting the company with the region it proudly supports.
From coordinating Daly Bay’s extensive sponsorship program to representing the organisation at events, launches and community initiatives, Sharon’s role keeps her constantly on the move.
“My job is to look after Daly Bay’s sponsorship program and community relations, along with other public relations and communication activities,” she explains.
With the company supporting a wide range of organisations across the region each year, Sharon has become a familiar face around town.
“Mayor Greg Williamson often jokes I’m following him as we’re often at the same events,” she laughs.
Beyond her professional role, Sharon also dedicates her time to the My Hospital Foundation Board, making her involvement in Dancing With Heart an easy decision.
“There was no way I was going to get away with not dancing this year!”
What have you found the most difficult?
Trying to remember everything in order has taken a bit of time. I was relieved I didn’t have to do a body roll, but unfortunately, I’m also not good at back pops, and I’ve got to do a couple of those.
What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work?
My favourite piece of equipment was a Cardio Echo Machine for children. Prior to My Hospital Foundation purchasing this piece of equipment, families had to travel to Brisbane monthly for their child to have a routine scan. This outcome made a huge difference to local families. It’s what inspired me to put up my hand to be on the board.
Friday, 13th March
Cuppa With Your Neighbour – Marian
8am
Enjoy a free coffee and friendly conversation at “Cuppa with Your Neighbour” at Vintage Kiss, 4 Anzac Avenue, Marian, from 8am to 10am on Friday, 13 March. Proudly supported by Mackay Regional Council’s Community Programs Team, the relaxed gathering offers residents a chance to connect, meet neighbours and strengthen community ties in a welcoming setting. Everyone is encouraged
Vintage Kiss (4 Anzac Avenue, Marian)
Crochet and Conversation
9am
Locals are invited to enjoy a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Open to everyone—from experienced crafters to beginners or those simply keen for a chat—the gathering encourages community connection in a friendly setting. Bring your own crochet tools or borrow from the communal box, grab a coffee and join the group. Just look for the table with the yarn.
Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia
Eat Street and Live Music
From 5pm
Head to Bluewater Quay from 5pm for an evening of Eat Street delights, live music and family-friendly fun. Enjoy a relaxed riverside atmosphere with live entertainment from Jamesley, while children can burn off some energy with free activities, including a Gymnastics Airtrack. With plenty of food and drink available, it’s a great opportunity for locals and visitors to gather and enjoy the waterfront.
Blue Water Quay, Mackay
Saturday 14th March
Mackay Wood Turners Craft Expo
From 9am
The Mackay Woodturners Craft Expo will return on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 March at Snow Wright Court, off Beaconsfield Road in Andergrove. Open from 9am to 3pm both days, the free community event offers visitors the chance to explore handcrafted timber pieces, meet local woodturners and learn more about the craft in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Everyone is welcome to come along and take a look.
Snow Wright Court, off Beaconsfield Road, Andergrove
Breast Cancer Support Group Monthly Meeting
10am
Breast cancer patients and survivors at any stage of their journey are invited to attend a supportive monthly gathering hosted by the Mackay Breast Cancer Support Group. The meeting will be held from 10am to 12pm in the Meeting Room at the Mackay Botanical Gardens, with roadside parking available along Lagoon Street. The morning includes introductions, a confidential sharing space and morning tea. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small share plate, with tea, coffee and water provided.
Mackay Botanical Gardens Meeting Room
Art Exhibition and Competition
10am
Art lovers are invited to explore the Artist and Art Exhibition and Competition, running from 14 to 22 March 2026 at 2 Snow Wright Court, Beaconsfield, Mackay. With free entry, visitors can browse a diverse range of artworks by talented artists, all available for purchase. The exhibition offers a great opportunity to support local creatives while enjoying an inspiring display of art.
2 Snow Wright Court, Beaconsfield, Mackay
Sunday 15th March
Barefoot Bowls
9am
Try Barefoot Bowls at Marian Bowls Club on Reg Smith Street from 9am to 11am. The relaxed session welcomes beginners and experienced players alike, offering a fun way to keep active and meet new people. Bowls are supplied, and participants are encouraged to wear flat-soled shoes or go barefoot and bring a hat. A sausage sizzle will follow the game. For details, phone John on 4959 2766.
Marian Bowls Club, Reg Smith Street
Kucom Presents: The Ties That Bind
7.30pm
The Ties That Bind, a season of one-act plays, will take to the stage at Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove. Performances run Thursday 12, Friday 13 and Saturday 14 March at 7.30pm, with a Sunday matinee on 15 March at 2pm. Theatre lovers are invited to come along and enjoy an engaging evening of local live performance.
Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove
The Whitsundays will come alive with music next July as the Queensland Music Festival (QMF) presents The Reef Trail, a unique event showcasing some of Australia’s most beloved artists in unexpected, picturesque locations. From 2 to 4 July this exciting music journey will unfold across two of the region’s most stunning landscapes: Lake Proserpine and Airlie Beach Foreshore.
The Reef Trail invites locals and visitors alike to experience the Whitsundays like never before. Against the backdrop of turquoise waters and wide open skies, the event will feature intimate performances from popular Australian acts including Boy & Bear, Jem Cassar-Daley, Tjaka, Mid Drift, and Kaylee West. These performances will bring the region’s natural beauty and vibrant culture to life in a way that highlights the connection between music, landscape, and community.
QLD Music Trails, the statewide initiative behind The Reef Trail, aims to introduce music lovers to the hidden gems of Queensland, beyond the traditional venue settings. Daryl Raven, Chief Executive of QMF, explained that The Reef Trail captures the very essence of the initiative, saying, “The Reef Trail brings music into places where Queensland landscapes, regional communities, and culture do the storytelling." The event is designed to encourage people to slow down, follow the music, and discover the region through shared experiences rather than rigid itineraries.
The adventure begins inland at Lake Proserpine, where a relaxed lakeside setting will provide the perfect atmosphere for an afternoon of live music, local food, and family-friendly activities. The journey then moves to Airlie Beach Foreshore, transforming into a vibrant amphitheater where audiences can enjoy music in one of Queensland’s most iconic seaside locations.
This unique event is not only a celebration of music but also of Queensland’s rich stories, vibrant communities, and stunning landscapes.
As Queensland’s Minister for the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek, stated, “The Reef Trail audiences are set to enjoy outstanding live music experiences with popular Australian artists...in idyllic tropical locations.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said The Reef Trail is a fantastic example of how cultural tourism supports the local economy while giving visitors a new reason to explore the Whitsundays.
“From Lake Proserpine to Airlie Beach Foreshore, this Trail invites people to stay longer, experience more and connect with our Whitsunday region in a different way,” Mayor Collins said.
For those looking to enjoy world-class music in an unforgettable setting, The Reef Trail offers an incredible opportunity to experience the Whitsundays like never before. It’s a journey that promises to highlight the region’s cultural heart and natural beauty, making it an event not to be missed.
Captions
Photo supplied
Airlie Beach is set to turn green in the best possible way this March, as the Airlie Beach Hotel rolls out a huge weekend of live music, capped off with a St Patrick’s Day celebration that promises to be one of the liveliest yet.
Kicking things off on Saturday March 14 and Sunday March 15 is a special double-header tribute show celebrating two of the UK’s most iconic bands, U2 and Coldplay. Fans can expect all the big anthems , from “With or Without You” to “Yellow” and “Viva La Vida”, delivered with replica costumes, era-accurate instruments and the kind of stadium energy these bands are famous for.
But it’s Tuesday, March 17 that will truly shine. The hotel’s St Patrick’s Day Party brings the spotlight firmly onto Ireland’s greatest musical export, U2. Headlining the celebration is Rattle and Hum – The U2 Show, Australia’s premier U2 tribute act. Formed in 1997 and boasting more than 2000 performances, the band has built a reputation for its uncanny sound and look, even appearing on national television over the years. With an Irish Bono impersonator front and centre, audiences can expect a high-energy, hit-filled performance that captures the spirit of the real thing.
Alongside the U2 tribute set will be classic Irish rock and pop favourites, plus a special selection of Coldplay songs to keep the dancefloor packed.
Airlie Beach Hotel is putting on a fantastic set of shows you won’t want to miss.
Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th March
WHAT: U2 Rattle and Hum plus Coldplay Show, Free Show
WHEN: 2pm – 5.30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
Tuesday 17th March
WHAT: St Patricks Day Party featuring Ratte & Hum, Sports Bar Stage, Free Show
WHEN: 2pm – 5.30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
*can you make design kind of St Patrick’s Day theme, thanks
The Beach Film Society is back!! After years of being closed, the society saw a successful relaunch at the end of 2025 with 30 existing members. For $55 a year, film lovers are able watch six new releases and five classic screenings that take place on either a Tuesday or Saturday once a month.
The Beach Film Society have announced their first screening of 2026. Occurring on St Patrick’s Day, the screening carries a prevailing Irish theme, as the society will showcase the 1990’s cult classic ‘The Commitments’. Set in Dublin, the film depicts the formation of a jazz band, made up entirely of the Irish working class.
The Beach Film Society will continue to showcase stunning films throughout the year. If you are interested, don’t hesitate to get in contact with the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre.
WHAT: Beach Film Society, screening of ‘The Commitments’
WHEN: Tuesday 17 March, 1:30pm sharp
WHERE: Endeavour Room, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
Captions
Photo source: Shutterstock
Friday 6 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grandview Hotel: Graham Rix (from 8pm)
KCs: Tim Griffin (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
Saturday 7 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Late for Woodstock (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
KCs: Tim Griffin (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Sugarlips (1pm – 5pm)
Sunday 8 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Late for Woodstock (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Noah Davis (1pm – 5pm)
KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: Paul Fergus (1pm – 5pm)
Monday 9 March
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
Tuesday 10 March
KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
Wednesday 11 March
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
Thursday 12 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)
Friday 6th March
2026 Mackay Airport Twilight City Run
6pm
Lace up for the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run on Friday, March 6. This family-friendly 5km fun run will wind through the scenic Bluewater Quay and across the Pioneer River, welcoming runners and walkers of all abilities. The twilight event supports the Leukaemia Foundation and offers a great community atmosphere ahead of the BMA Mackay Marina Run in June.
Bluewater Quay
Saturday 7th march
Mens Breakfast
7.30am
Men are invited to the Iona West Men’s Breakfast at 7:30am on Saturday, March 7 at Iona West Uniting Church. Guest speaker Victor Oziegbe will share his journey migrating to Australia, reflecting on family, faith and perseverance. The relaxed morning gathering offers connection, conversation and breakfast for $5. RSVP by contacting the organisers.
Iona West Uniting Church
Soroptimist International ‘Cut and Sew’ event
10am
Locals are invited to a relaxed community sewing day supporting St. Vincent de Paul Society family support programs. Volunteers will repurpose clean, sturdy fabrics such as curtains and quilt covers into practical bags for community use. No experience or sewing machine is required, with tasks including cutting, sewing and ironing. Participants are also welcome to bring a plate to share for lunch.
Carlyle Gardens - 206 Phillip Street, North Mackay
Sunday 8th March
Social Choccie Milk Run
6am
Early risers can kickstart their Sunday with a relaxed social run departing from Curb Cafe Northpoint at NorthPoint Retail at 6am. The casual outing will follow a scenic route towards The Gooseponds, offering around 30 minutes of easy running or walking before heading back. Open to all fitness levels, the event focuses on community, conversation and fresh air, with participants encouraged to stay afterwards for a well-earned coffee or chocolate milk and a friendly catch-up at the café.
CURB, 8 Windmill Xing, Mount Pleasant
Barefoot Bowls
9am
Get active and social at Marian Bowls Club this Sunday, March 8, with Barefoot Bowls from 9am to 11am. Perfect for all ages and experience levels, bowls are provided—just wear flat-soled shoes or go barefoot and bring a hat. After the game, enjoy a classic sausage sizzle while meeting new friends. No experience is necessary. For more information, contact John on 4959 2766.
Marian Bowls Club
Wednesday 11th March
World Plumbing Day Community Breakfast
7am
Kickstart your day with Tropical Coast Plumbing at a World Plumbing Day barbecue breakfast on March 11 at their Mackay office on Gordon Street. Enjoy coffee from Papa Bens Coffee Van, a sizzling breakfast, and plenty of conversation with clients, community members, and local businesses. The morning celebrates the vital role plumbing plays in community health, safety, sustainability, and economic growth, highlighting careers, water solutions, and the innovation that keeps our communities thriving.
Tropical Coast Plumbing Mackay
On March 7th and 8th, Late for Woodstock will be gracing the stage to recreate the iconic music of rock history’s most celebrated performances. The tribute act formed in May 1988 in Noosa Heads to bring back the authentic sounds of the 60s and 70s.
“We kind of bumped into each other at Noosa and decided to throw a band together”, said singer and guitarist Colin Germano.
“We wanted a name that would reflect what we wanted to play, which was older stuff. Beatles, Stones, The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Creedence, Doobie Brothers – stuff like that”.
After various hiatuses and a break during Covid, the band and back and ready for action.
“We just stick to our roots. We play the stuff that we love. Nothing more than that. We play what we love and are fortunate people still want to hear that”.
The band are no strangers to the Airlie Beach foreshore.
“We played there back in 1985 when it was the old pub. We were part of a circuit. We’d go up there, bash it out and have a great time”.
Airlie Beach remains a special place to perform.
“We just love Airlie Beach. We’ve been going there all these years. When we perform here, I like to go up early and hang around town – catch up with friends – see the islands. The pub has always been really good to us. It’s a unique place”.
Get excited for a wealth of timeless music as the tribute act are set to honour The Doors, CCR, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Neil Young, The Kinks, Santana, The Rolling Stones, Rodriguez and Bob Dylan among many others.
WHAT: Late for Woodstock, 2 Free Shows
WHEN: March 7th – 8th, 2.30-5.30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
Friday 27 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grandview Hotel: Mike Duff (from 8pm)
KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (1pm – 5pm)
Saturday 28 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Bon Jovi (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grandview Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm – 8pm)
KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Josiah (4 – 7pm)
Sunday 1 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Bon Jovi & Foreigner (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort:
KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Dan Ahri (2pm – 6pm)
Monday 2 March
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)
Tuesday 3 March
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)
Wednesday 4 March
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)
Thursday 5 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (1pm – 5pm)
On Sunday 22 February, a group of writers, readers and thinkers gathered at the Whitsunday Sailing Club to explore how the Writers Festival could be improved for further iterations. Being held on 13 September, the festival has seen great success in the past, and with a passionate focus group committed to planning this year’s event, the community can expect great things, including a strong spotlight on the talent and creativity that makes up the region.
Although smaller compared to larger cities, the Whitsundays has always punched above its weight when it comes to celebrating culture and creativity, and the Writers Festival is a clear sign of that.
With various prompts put to the team, including a core discussion theme of What makes literary festivals important? ideas were enthusiastically thrown around. Its evident that a current priority is to consider how the festival can be geared towards children, as with the rise of technology, it is more vital than ever that children can maintain engagement with literature.
Further matters were deliberated on and discussed such as:
In addition to the Writers Festival, the Whitsunday Literary Hearts Awards was also discussed. This festival contains a number of exciting categories – unpublished manuscript, short story (adult and under 18), book cover and curated publication – encouraging locals to put their work out there.
The festival is committed to being a leading regional literary event on the national calendar, celebrating Queensland and Australian stories whilst championing the authors who bring them to life.
This meeting represents a great start to the year, as the team will continue to discuss, plan and brainstorm ideas. These types of festivals are vital in stimulating cultural growth in the region. The region contains so many wonderful, artists, musicians, poets and general creatives and it is important to see their efforts recognised.
Writers, readers and thinkers gathered to discuss ideas ahead of this September's Writers Festival. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
Swapping hard hats for dancing shoes, Jason Mordey will vie for the winning position on stage at the upcoming Dancing With Heart competition.
As Managing Director of Anything Environmental, Jason leads a locally owned family business focused on giving back to the community while creating opportunities for people to recycle materials that would otherwise end up in landfill.
“We are a business that is all about supporting and giving back to our local community where we can, especially through creating opportunities for the general public to recycle materials and potentially make some money doing it, as well as helping the environment,” he says.
Jason began his career as a diesel mechanic before building one of the region’s largest earthmoving and demolition operations. When the Containers for Change program launched, he seized the opportunity to bring it to Mackay.
“I hope people remember me for helping create systems that make a real difference for the community and the environment,” he shares.
Now turning his focus to the dance floor, Jason promises plenty of energy.
“I don’t want to give too much away, but my dance is very full-on from start to finish and exhausting. I love the way it involves the audience with a high-energy performance, with fun and comedy thrown in,” he says.
The most challenging part? I could lie and say the backflips, lol.
What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work? My father was in the hospital for nearly two years. During that time, I saw first-hand how the Hospital Foundation do the little things to help people staying in hospital, especially long-term patients like my father. They fill in the gaps that are otherwise missed.
Dirk Neugebauer is no stranger to stepping up for the community, but stepping onto a dance floor, complete with choreography and precise timing, is an entirely new arena.
As Managing Director of Jayden Enterprises Pty Ltd, Dirk leads a well-known and established Mackay business that has consistently backed local charities, schools and events.
“Jayden Enterprises is a well-known and established Mackay business that has always supported local charities, schools and events in which I get actively involved,” he says.
Over the past three years, he has also poured his energy into Variety – the Children’s Charity Queensland Variety Bash, running two major fundraisers annually and promoting them across TV and radio.
“My passion in supporting charities such as My Hospital Foundation, Hospital Auxiliary, Chances House and Variety comes from my experience with my own mental health challenges and how important it is to me to help those that need it the most,” he shares.
“I would like to be remembered as someone who cares about the community through sharing prosperity.”
Now, as a Dancing With Heart contestant, Dirk admits rehearsals have tested him.
“It has been a bit of a struggle even though I love dancing… this has challenged me to learn a routine,” he says.
“Learning the new moves, practicing them and then getting them right is the most enjoyable.”
What have you found the most challenging so far? Getting the timing right and not jumping into my own routine.
What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work? The foundation is local, directing funds to those who need it most while supporting healthcare workers that work tirelessly with essential equipment and resources.
Bright, outgoing and always up for a laugh, Chelsea Byrne is a vibrant force in Mackay’s community scene, and chances are, you’ve seen her in action.
As a Triple M Roadie, Account Coordinator, Brand Experience Specialist, and Executive Assistant, Chelsea is at the heart of connecting the station to the community. From local businesses to sporting clubs and community events, she thrives on face-to-face interaction and sharing the stories that make the region unique.
“You’ll usually find me out and about in the community — visiting local businesses, events, sporting clubs, and bringing the station to the streets. I love being face-to-face with locals, having a chat, sharing a laugh, and helping promote what’s happening around our region,” she said.
“It’s such a social job and I’m lucky to meet so many amazing people through it.”
While she’s confident on the mic, Chelsea’s dance routine has been full of surprises.
“Most people don’t know I’m probably the clumsiest dancer in the group. I can trip over nothing and still miss a count — it’s honestly impressive… But I dance with my whole heart, even if my feet don’t always cooperate. I’d love to be remembered as the girl who gave it her all, laughed at herself, and proved you don’t have to be perfect to light up the stage,” Chelsea enthuised.
“I’ve really loved the upbeat sections with sharp, strong moves because you can just go full out and feel the music. That’s when I forget about being clumsy and just have fun with it.”
The most challenging part? Remembering the choreography while also making it look confident and natural
What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work? Knowing the impact stays right here in our local hospitals and helps people in our own community makes it incredibly meaningful, especially because healthcare touches everyone at some point in their lives.
Film lovers are invited to a special screening of award-winning French drama The Story of Souleymane at CQUniversity’s Cook Theatre next month, presented by Film & Arts Mackay Inc..
Winner of the Jury Prize, Best Actor and the FIPRESCI International Critics’ Prize in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival, as well as Best Actor and Best Sound at the European Film Awards, the 93-minute drama has become one of France’s most talked-about recent releases.
Written and directed by Boris Lojkine, the film follows Souleymane, a young food delivery cyclist navigating the frenetic streets of Paris while awaiting the outcome of his asylum application. Racing against the clock to meet delivery demands, he must also prepare for a life-changing residency interview that will determine his future. The lead performance by newcomer Abou Sangaré has been widely praised, adding emotional weight to this tense and compassionate portrait of life in the gig economy.
Described as a gripping social-realist thriller, the film has drawn comparisons to classic European cinema while resonating strongly with contemporary audiences. It contains coarse language and is rated M.
The evening will also include the Film & Arts Mackay Annual General Meeting at 7.10pm sharp, prior to the screening. Members are encouraged to attend to help form a quorum and nominate office bearers for the year ahead.
Doors open at 6.45pm for a 7.30pm start at CQUniversity Mackay, Ooralea Campus. Guests are invited to stay for snacks and wine after the screening.
Tickets and 2026 memberships are available online at www.trybooking.com/DIZNV.
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