Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
A Life Well Lived Is Worthy of Telling By Richard Evans, President, Whitsundays Writers Festival Near the end of her life, activist and writer Gloria Steinem was asked to leave one final piece of advice. "Please tell your own story. This is how we know each other, and how we build a more respectful, compassionate world." From the dreaming stories of our First Nations people to the hard yards of early pioneers, the isolation felt by settlers, and the drive of newer arrivals chasing a fresh start, our region is woven from stories. The question is, are we listening? Are we reading? Screenwriting teacher Robert McKee puts it well … stories aren’t just entertainment, they’re how we make sense of our lives. We tell them through books, through memory, through the stories we simply speak aloud over a cuppa. But every story, however it’s told, needs one thing to survive: someone willing to listen. And listening starts with words. We learn them from our parents, build on them at school, and carry them into our working lives. Yet literacy is a subject we rarely talk about, perhaps because it’s uncomfortable. National surveys show 38 to 64 per cent of employed Australians struggle with basic reading, maths, problem-solving or understanding documents. More than a third of adults live with low literacy, often hiding it. They are parents unable to help with homework, workers who dread forms and neighbours struggling in silence. Low literacy, particularly among young men and teenagers, can fuel isolation and disengagement and has been linked to self-harm. One in three Australian teenagers has experienced suicidal thoughts in the past year, while suicide remains the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 24. The figures are damning. Reading offers a simple solution. Just 15 minutes a day is enough to finish roughly 26 books a year from a habit shorter than a coffee break. Imagine what that could do for a community. Encouragingly, Australians still love a good story. Two in three read for pleasure, while young Australians are embracing print, e-books and audiobooks. Print remains the favourite, but audiobooks are gaining ground. It starts at home. Parents who read aloud, visit the library and let their children see them reading are passing down something priceless. Research shows children who read at four and five are far more likely to enjoy it by age ten or eleven. Steinem also said, "If you want people to listen to you, you have to listen to them." Storytelling and reading are two sides of the same act of listening. We need to listen to our children, our neighbours, and to those whose stories have too often gone unheard. Words matter. We at the Whitsundays Writers Festival are building access with a goal to provide the community with leading practitioners of the craft of reading and writing. So, let’s build a culture where reading is every day and easy. Let’s tell our stories and truly listen to each other’s. That is how we come to know one another.
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Few sights emulate the lively character of Australian wildlife quite like a gathering of cockatoos. Alissa Tomlinson captured this week’s winning photograph on Hamilton Island, featuring a group of unmistakable white birds competing for dropped chips, their bright yellow crests adding a splash of colour amid the chaos. With one cockatoo spreading its wings with dramatic flair, several jostling for position and two watching from the background, it just screams “Wings”. Done the Aussie way. Congratulations, Alissa, you certainly soar this week’s “Wings” theme to new heights! Next week’s theme is “Macro”. Thank you once again to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing another week of fantastic images.
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Tourism Awards For Local Area. Whitsunday will be represented at the 1986 National Tourism Awards in Adelaide by Queensland finalists Air Whitsunday, through the efforts of Kevin and Sue Bowe, in the Tourism Transport Category. In addition, Proserpine High School is the Queensland finalist in the Training and Education category. Presentations will take place on Thursday. Don’t Drink And Drive. Sgt. Warren Strofeldt of Proserpine Police reminded people not to drink and drive this weekend, the Annual Fun Race Weekend. Old Records Sought. The Bicentennial Committee want to mount a display on the history of local families, organisations and clubs along with photos, minutes books for Proserpine and coastal areas. Twenty Five Years for Pony Club. To celebrate its 25th birthday the Proserpine Hack and Pony Club have planned a big long weekend with a cabaret, barn dance, camp fire breakfast and barbecue. Obituary: Harold Frederick Lade died aged 72 years having lived all his life in Proserpine. Australian Flag Presentation. Federal member Ray Braithwaite presented the flag to Rotarians Col McCall and Ross Collingwood. Miss Australia Quest. Regional Judging will take place in Mackay for the eight competitors, one of whom was Airlie Beach entrant Lisa Marquart. Lisa said that the highlight of her quest her visit to Cootharinga Home for crippled children in Townsville for which she is raising money. New Grounds for Proserpine Cricket Association. These are being prepared along with a new clubhouse on Kelsey Creek Road and should be available in 1987. Fun Race Weekend activities. The population of Airlie Beach is expected to double to 7000 this weekend with the staging of the Fun Race and Mardi Gras. What started as a 2 boat challenge has swelled to an expected entry of 300 yachts competing and another 200 on the water. Entries for The Miss Figurehead Competition will be required to cover up before coming ashore. Novelty sporting events, the Mardi Gras and other events will continue throughout Saturday. High School Report Clark Hobson and Kevin Noble have entered the High School ComputerProblem Solving Competition. Parentcraft for all year 9’s start next term. Over 40 students will take part in the NQ Trials in Townsville this week vying for selection for the State titles. Chess and Driver Education have been added to the recreational activities from which senior students can choose next term. Contributed with thanks by Proserpine Museum. Source: Proserpine Guardian 1986
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Two sporting greats will swap the footy for the microphone when former Brisbane Bears and Lions player Richard Champion and rugby league legend Eric Grothe bring live music to Airlie for two huge Grand Final celebrations. The AFL and NRL Grand Finals will bookend the final stretches of the season with celebrations at Airlie Beach Hotel, beginning with the AFL decider on Saturday 26th September before the NRL Grand Final rounds out the action on Sunday 4th October. With the AFL up first, Richard Champion will take the stage for the decider afterparty before returning the following Sunday. Richard “Champs” Champion played 183 AFL games with the Brisbane Bears and Lions across a decade-long career in the 90s, with the dependable defender becoming part of the club’s inaugural side following the merger. Champion retired at the end of 2000 with 80 career goals and was awarded Brisbane Lions Life Membership for his decade of service. Of all his memories from the game, playing finals football for the first time remains a favourite. “Playing finals for the first time was always a highlight,” he said. “Unfortunately, I retired the year before the Lions won their first premiership, so my timing has never been great. “But it was a great opportunity to play at the top level and as a kid growing up in the country, it was a dream come true.” Richard’s interest in music has always run alongside his football career, with team trips often ending in his mates pushing him onto stages at bars across Bali, London and beyond. Those impromptu performances helped build his confidence, but it was not until several years after retiring that he began singing publicly, after being approached to front a band around four years ago. Richard went on to become the original lead singer of cover band The Filthy Animals before later forming Stadium Lights, balancing performances with his AFL commentary work for Triple M. His Cold Chisel show began when Dellacoma Rio, frontman of The Australian INXS Show, invited him to join the production. “Dell is the one who got me involved in doing the Chisel show,” Richard said. “He’s a fantastic artist, a terrific guy and we’ve become good mates.” The pair will transform Airlie Beach Hotel into the AFL Grand Final after party, performing favourites from Cold Chisel, Jimmy Barnes and INXS. “We’ll just continue the party,” Richard said. The following weekend will see the focus turn to rugby league, with Parramatta Eels great Eric Grothe leading the entertainment across NRL Grand Final weekend. Known to fans as “The Guru”, Grothe was part of the famous Parramatta side that won four premierships in 1981, 1982, 1983 and 1986, while also making nine State of Origin appearances for New South Wales and played eight Tests for Australia, including the undefeated 1982 Kangaroo Tour. Music had been part of Grothe’s life long before football finished. He received his first acoustic guitar from his parents at 10 and taught himself to play by listening to records. After retiring, he finally had the time to form a band with his sons, Eric Jr and Daniel, called Three Day Broth. He now fronts Eric Grothe & The Gurus, a 5-man band who will begin the weekend with their Great Southern Land ICEHOUSE tribute show at Airlie Beach Hotel on Saturday 3rd October. The following afternoon, the band will return with a high-energy mix of Australian rock and party favourites before the NRL Grand Final. “We play pretty heavy,” Eric said. “We play bands like The Angels, INXS, Dragon, Hoodoo Gurus, Models and The Radiators. “It’s a good variety and everybody will know the songs.” Following the performance, Eric will remain at the hotel for a meet and greet before watching the Grand Final with fans, hoping the music leaves everyone ready for the game ahead. “Some of the Australian rock is pretty heavy and it’s got a lot of energy,” he said. “Hopefully we can get them in the right mood to enjoy the game.” What: AFL Grand Final After Party featuring Richard Champion and Dellacoma Rio When: Saturday 26 September, 6pm-10pm Where: Airlie Beach Hotel What: Great Southern Land - The ICEHOUSE tribute show, NRL Grand Final Show When: Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th October, 2pm-5:30pm Where: Airlie Beach Hotel Photo captions: *Designer Note, All 4 photos must be include, they want a kind of before (footy) and After (musio) thing going on. Photo 1- Richard Champion. Photo supplied: Richard Champion Photo 2- Eric Grothe. Photo supplied: Eric Grothe
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Photo credit: Lucy Seddon-Brown
White on Whitehaven traded its usual setting for the tropical surrounds of Paradise Cove last weekend after incoming weather made conditions at Whitehaven Beach unsafe.
Rather than cancel the annual event, organisers relocated the celebration to the private Woodwark Bay estate for a special “Paradise Edition” on 11th and 12th September.
Whitehaven’s silica sands were swapped for tropical gardens and poolside lounging while many of the event’s familiar attractions remained for the 230 who decided to party on through the change.
Fish D’Vine Catering handled the food, with Kevin Collins leading the kitchen and serving a spread of fresh seafood, barbecued meats, salads, canapés and desserts, while 74 Islands Distillery completed the menu with champagne, premium wines and cocktails to complement.
A DJ, roving entertainment, lawn games and a massage hut kept guests entertained and relaxed, while Hot Potato Band brought its roaming brass sound to the festivities, adding infectious beats, dancing and conga lines.
Although the weather forced a late change of backdrop, the move only made the popular all-white celebration more memorable.
18th Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine
18th 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
19th Cocktail Playground, 12pm-4:30pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
19th Paul Bowman Junior Rugby League Challenge
19th Big Stadium Rock Show, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
20th Big Stadium Rock Show, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
20th Paul Bowman Junior Rugby League Challenge
22nd The Librarian, 11am-12pm, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, Proserpine
24th Morning Melodies: What’s New Pussycat? 11am-12:45pm, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, Proserpine
24th $100 Art Night, 6pm-8pm , Creative Connections Whitsunday Community Gallery on 192 Main Street, Proserpine
24th FREE Salsa & Bachata Social, 7:30pm-9pm, Hog’s Breath Café, Airlie Beach
25th Teeny Tiny Stevies Brain Fart Regional Tour, 10:30am-11:30am, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, Proserpine
25th Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine
25th 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
26th Cocktail Playground, 12pm-4:30pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
26th AFL Final Grand Party Flame Trees VS INXS Tribute Show, 6pm-10pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
27th Flame Trees VS INXS Tribute Show, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
18th September
ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Andrew Baldino, 8pm-10pm
Grand View Hotel Bowen: DJ night, 8pm onwards
19th September
ABH: Big Stadium Rock Show, 2pm-5:30pm
ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm
Sorrento’s: Ash Smith, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Mick Woodbridge, 8pm-10pm
Grand View Hotel Bowen: Deja Vu, 8pm onwards
20th September
ABH: Big Stadium Rock Show, 2pm-5:30pm,
ABH: Paul Fergus Morris, 6:30-9:30pm
Sorrentos: Simon Briley, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Josiah, 8pm-10pm
Grand View Hotel Bowen: Zed Charles Band, 1pm-5pm
21th August
Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Noah Roberston, 8pm-10pm
22th September
Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Graham Rix, 8pm-10pm
23rd September
Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm [Text Wrapping Break]KC’s Bar & Grill: Bear Brewer, 8pm-10pm
24th September
ABH: Aaron Saxon, 6:30pm-9:30pm
Sorrentos: Lucy Rose, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Paul Fergus Morris, 8pm-10pm
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
G’day Little Queenslanders brought Mackay families together at Queens Park last Saturday 5th September, with an estimated 1,500 to 2,000 people attending throughout the morning.
The free Queensland Government event welcomed babies, toddlers and their families for a morning of entertainment, activities and connection, featuring the popular Bluey Live Interactive Experience alongside family-friendly activities and information stalls.
Parents, carers and grandparents were also able to connect with a range of local health, family and government services, while police, ambulance and fire representatives were among those joining the community celebration.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton praised the event on the day and its ability to bring families and services together in one place.
“This is an amazing event. I think we’ve probably had 1,500, 2000 people through, and It’s just a wonderful day for the community to get together,” Mr Dalton said.
Saturday 12th September
Pioneer Paddling at Platypus Beach
9.30am
Grab your kayak, canoe or paddle board and join fellow locals for a relaxed morning paddle along the Pioneer River. Meet at Platypus Beach at 9.30am. Kids and teens are welcome with their own craft and a moderate fitness level, or when paddling with a parent or guardian on a two-person craft. The section of river is described as safe and calm for paddling or swimming. The group is also planning more social activities, including hikes and swims. A new members’ BBQ will be held at Lambert’s Beach from 2pm
Platypus beach
Highway Number Country Music Association family night
From 7pm
Commencing at 7.00pm out at the Bakers Creek Community Hall. Admission only $5.00 and the best supper is provided FREE. Artists: If you'd like to sing Rock & Roll on Saturday night please do so. There is heaps of floor that isn't being used on the day and dancing is welcome. Phone Betty if you would like more information 0434 911 712.
Bakers Creek Community Hall
Sunday 13th September
Community Car Boot Sale
8am-11am
The Mackay Northern Beaches Lions Club is inviting the community to give pre-loved treasures a new home at its Community Car Boot Sale. Come along to sell, give away, browse for bargains or discover an unexpected gem, while helping reduce waste and meet fellow locals. Whether you’re decluttering, downsizing or simply love a good find, there’s something for everyone.
Mackay Northern Beaches State High School PAC Car Park.
Tuesday 15th September
Mackay Seniors Expo 2026
From 9am-12pm
Mackay seniors, families, friends and carers are invited to a morning of connection, information and community at the Seniors Expo 2026. With more than 80 exhibitors and around 2,000 attendees expected, the expo offers the chance to discover local services, programs and support, while meeting organisations from across the region. Enjoy informative displays, stallholders, coffee, snacks and a sausage sizzle in a friendly atmosphere. Entry is free, with accessible parking available.
The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds.
Sarina will be buzzing with creativity this weekend, with locals invited to come along and enjoy a celebration of local talent at Art in the Park.
Presented by the Sarina Arts Council and Sarina Art Gallery, the event will take place on Saturday 12th September, from 9am to 2pm at Field of Dreams Parklands.
The event will showcase a variety of local artwork, with pieces on display and available for purchase, giving visitors the opportunity to discover the talent within their own community and perhaps take home something unique.
There will also be jewellery, live music and art activities for children, creating a relaxed morning out for families, art lovers and anyone wanting to support local makers and creatives.
Organisers are encouraging the community to wander through the stalls, meet local artists and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.
The event will also coincide with celebrations marking the Sarina Sugar Shed’s 20th anniversary, adding to what promises to be a lively day in the heart of Sarina.
For local artists, Art in the Park provides an opportunity to put their work in front of the community, while visitors can enjoy an accessible and relaxed introduction to the region’s creative scene.
Whether you’re passionate about art, looking for something handmade, or simply searching for something to do this weekend, Art in the Park is a chance to get out, support local talent and enjoy a morning in Sarina!
The Woodpile, Hook Island, Colour Study (image credit Linda Forrester)
What Fuels an Artist's Creativity?
By Linda Forrester, Vice President and Gallery Coordinator, Creative Connections Whitsunday
In the world of art, the spark that drives an artist to create can come from many places. Some find inspiration in the quiet beauty of nature, others in the hustle and bustle of city life.
But what really gets an artist's creative juices flowing? It turns out to be a mix of personal experiences, community interaction, and a love for the act of creation itself.
Nature is a common source of inspiration for many artists. The stunning views and natural wonders, like those found in here in the Whitsundays, can motivate artists to try to capture the beauty they see. The way the light changes throughout the day or the endless variety of colours in a landscape can push an artist to pick up their brush, pencil, or camera.
Being part of an art group or community also fuels creativity. The encouragement and feedback from fellow artists can be incredibly motivating. Sharing work, ideas, and success within a community helps artists feel connected and part of something bigger, fostering a creative environment where everyone can grow.
Artists also draw inspiration from their own emotions and life experiences. For some, creating art is a way to work through feelings and thoughts that are hard to express in words. It can be a personal journey that helps artists understand themselves and the world around them better.
The desire to make a difference or send a message through art is another powerful motivator. Many artists use their work to highlight important issues, share stories, or inspire change. This sense of purpose can drive an artist to create works that not only look beautiful but also have a deeper meaning.
Lastly, the simple love of creating something new is a big part of what drives artists. The process of learning, experimenting, and seeing an idea come to life is rewarding in itself. It's about the joy of making and the satisfaction that comes from the creative process.
In short, artists are motivated by a combination of the beauty they see in the world, the support of their peers, the exploration of personal experiences, the desire to impact the world positively, and the pure pleasure of creating.
Each artist's journey is unique, but they all share a common thread – the transformative power of art to inspire, connect, and reveal the beauty in our lives and in ourselves.
Celebrating local creativity, connection, and community
Whitsundays Writers Festival
Richard Evans
Festival Director and President
hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Join the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival’s FREE community event, 3pm-4:30pm Sunday 13 September at the Whitsunday Marine Club.
Creative Connections Whitsunday
Glenda Brown
President
info@creativeconnectionwhitsunday.com
Creative Connections Whitsundays supports and celebrates the region's arts community by creating opportunities for artists to connect, exhibit, learn, and thrive through partnerships, cultural events, and creative programs.
Get in touch!
If you would like to submit a poem, creative writing piece, profile suggestion, event information, or share your creative story, please contact hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Small Art, Big Impact at Community Gallery fundraiser
Creative Connections Whitsunday will be hosting a special fundraising evening at the Community Gallery in Proserpine on Thursday 24th September from 6pm to 8pm, bringing together local art and community support.
Along with its usual selection of original artworks and unique gifts, the Gallery will showcase a selection of small original artworks, all created and donated by local artists. Including a mix of emerging, professional and locally renowned award-winning artists.
Each artwork will be available to purchase for just $100, giving visitors the opportunity to take home an original piece of art with 100% of the sale directly supporting the Community Gallery.
There will also be an art auction on the night and visitors can purchase other artworks and merchandise.
The fundraiser is open to everyone, with a bar and light refreshments available during the evening.
Funds raised will support the ongoing operation and development of the volunteer-run Community Gallery and its work showcasing artists from across the Whitsundays region.
Come along, browse the collection, discover a new favourite artist and help support a growing local creative community.
What? Community Gallery Fundraiser
When? 6pm-8pm Thursday 24th September
Where? 192 Main Street, Proserpine
What’s On This Sunday: Markets, Art & Stories
There’s plenty happening across the Whitsundays this Sunday 13th September, with markets, local art, books, and live entertainment offering the perfect excuse to get out and enjoy the community.
Start the morning at the Proserpine Community Markets, running from 8am to noon at the Proserpine Showgrounds.
Run by locals for locals, the markets bring together stallholders from across the region, with handmade crafts, Whitsunday-made products, local goodies and live music. Grab breakfast from the barbecue or food vans, hunt for a bargain in the Car Boot section, or let the kids get creative with cookie decorating. Dogs are welcome too, provided they’re kept on a lead.
Then head to Cannonvale for the Whitsundays Writers Festival’s Stories by the Sea at the Whitsunday Marine Club.
From 11am, local artists will be creating works outdoors as part of the Creative Connections Whitsunday Plein Air Art Challenge, drawing inspiration from the Whitsundays and the waterfront setting.
Visitors can watch the artworks develop throughout the day before voting for their favourite in the People’s Choice Award, announced at 4pm. Completed works will also be available through a silent auction, with 100 per cent of sales going directly to participating artists.
The Plein Air Challenge leads into Stories by the Sea from 3pm to 4.30pm, a free community celebration featuring regional authors, books, readings, music, activities and more.
So why not make a Sunday of it? Browse the markets in Proserpine in the morning, then head towards the coast for an afternoon celebrating local artists, writers and creativity by the sea.
What: Proserpine Community Markets
When: 8am-12pm Sunday 13th September
Where: Proserpine Showgrounds
What: Stories by the Sea
When: 3.00–4.30pm Sunday 13th September
Where: Whitsunday Marine Club
There is something eerie about a misty morning, when a seemingly regular landscape can take on a mystical persona.
Gladys Young captured this week’s winning photograph, titled Morning Mist, at a farm near Bowen.
The cloudy blanket of mist settling across the property creates a quiet and peaceful scene, pinpointing that brief moment before the morning sun lifts the haze and the day begins.
Congratulations, Gladys, you certainly made the most of a misty morning!
For next week’s Photo of the Week, the theme is “Wings”.
Thank you once again to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing fantastic images.
Great Day For The Brahmans. A crowd close to 2000 witnessed Brahman’s resounding 36-6 victory over Bowen Pirates and its passage through to the Grand Finals in Townsville, which included Sean Padden’s hat trick of tries. Glenden stole the reserve grade over Collinsville.
Dam Project Progress. The construction of a village to house the many workers involved began this week.
Obituary
Mary Winifred McCarthy. This long time resident of Ann St. died aged 73.
Flashed Lights To Warn. Acting magistrate fined two people for flashing their lights to warn oncoming traffic of the presence of a police radar trap.
Marijuana At Kelsey. Two people were convicted of growing an illegal plant or having a smoking utensil in their possession.
Primary School District Athletics. Team honours went to Cannonvale. Among several new records set were Shane Dibben’s 800 metres, John Hoad’s 1.52m. High jump and Ricky Lingwoodock’s 4.30 metre long jump.
Proserpine Whitsunday Sport Fishing Club annual team challenge attracted teams from the Burdekin, Bowen and Mackay. Highest point scoring fish and heaviest fish was a 33kg sailfish landed by Chris Gilmore.
24 Hour Trading. Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce president Mike Storkey explained that extended trading on a six day a week basis was being applied for, but the proposal to gain unrestricted trading hours was the ultimate aim.
Classic Wool Parade. Proserpine ladies modelled classic wool designs along with classic hats and stunning accessories in front of about 200 people at the Reef Gateway Hotel on Thursday night.
Sand For Airlie. 3000 cubic metres of sand was delivered and spread evenly on what was previously a mud flat to put the beach back into Airlie ‘Beach’.
Cannonvale School Extension. Tenders for a new teaching block at Cannonvale School have been called to house tuck shop, amenities, and classroom expansion.
Boras Hopes Win. Local tug-a-war team Boras Hopes led by captain coach Ron Borellini pulled successfully against 5 Mackay teams, and then beat Boomerang Hotel a team that out weighed them by 140 kgs, in the final.
Sourced by the Proserpine Guardian.
"Captain Seaweed" was a well-known local boat skipper and character around Airlie Beach and Shute Harbour during the early days of the region's tourism and cruising industry. He started his career working on the early cruise boats out of Shute Harbour such as “Fantasea”. Bill Williams was memorable for ferrying passengers and bringing travelling musicians across the water for local jam sessions and was a significant part of the vibrant early local music and sailing culture. He was also a man who looked out for others.
Memories from the late Ken Looke, long time Whitsunday local.
“We first met Bill Williams (aka Captain Seaweed) on the beach at Horseshoe Bay which was the name for Airlie Beach in those days. There was only one shop then, no pub (the closest pubs being at Proserpine). Everything that was needed was sold at the shop. If it wasn’t sold there, it was not needed. It was also the post office.
Bill was conducting day sailing tours on the good ship “Southern Maid” owned by Andrew Martin of the Percy Islands, and he asked if I would like to go sailing with him the next day. We subsequently set sail from the old (not the original) Cannonvale Jetty, in a good brisk sou’easter, making ten knots towards Hayman Island where we passed through Hook Passage out to Deloraine anchoring there in a reasonable depth of water.
When we decided to move, the anchor had fouled. As we tried to free it, the ratchet and pawl failed, spinning the winch handle backwards and breaking the operator’s forearm. While Captain Seaweed worked to tame the huge sail and turn “Southern Maid” into the wind, a second crewman suffered the same fate, but the jolt freed the anchor. Once recovered, we headed for Hayman as quickly as possible. The helicopter crew, alerted by radio, met us to fly the injured men to Proserpine. It was not the usual brochure day sail, but it showed what the Whitsundays can be like when the sou’easterlies are up.
From then on, our friendship with the Williams family developed. We helped Bill and Josephine get their house built in Cannonvale and spent many enjoyable musical evenings there with our growing families - Bill playing his one-string tea box bass, Merv Jones on tenor banjo, Banjo Jack on standard banjo (5 string), occasionally on guitar, myself on tenor banjo. The kids played outside getting all sticky with molasses, roasting and eating large brown grasshoppers, as kids used to do! The Williams Family eventually numbered four children - William Jnr, Elizabeth, Joseph and Jason.
Captain Seaweed was the first face we saw on the morning of Cyclone Ada. Around 10 am, though it was still dark, he peered through the horizontal rain into our Kombi van, his curly black hair plastered down, and asked, “Is everybody OK?” We had sheltered there after losing our roof and some walls. Bill had walked from Shute Harbour, where he had spent the night helping secure vessels amid cracking trees and flying branches. Unable to save his beloved ‘Seabird”,hard aground with timber through her hull, he had crawled across the jetty towards where “Mirmar” was going to pieces. His Morris van, its paint gravel-blasted off, had ended up in Bob Porter’s Jetty Kiosk window. It was a dirty night. Once he knew we were safe, Billy continued home — another hour’s walk on a good day.
Captain Seaweed was taken from us too soon, a catastrophic iatrogenic event. His passing was a great loss to the community.”
Story sourced from memories of Ken Looke. Photo sourced from “Remembering Cyclone Ada”
Samuel L. Jackson and Sarah Darkin. Photo supplied: Sarah Darkin
Whitsunday local Sarah Darkin is no stranger to the camera. Having worked alongside huge personalities in film, she is now auditioning to take centre stage herself, as she sets her sights on the Big Brother Australia house.
As a little person, Sarah has spent much of her life encountering assumptions about what she can and cannot do. Rather than allowing those expectations to define her, Sarah has learned to adapt, back herself and approach life with humour that she hopes to bring into the big brother house next year.
“I think I’ll surprise people,” she said.
“People will wonder, ‘How is she going to reach that? How is she going to do that?’ But I’m just like anybody else.
“I’m not any different, I’m just Sarah.”
Sarah’s confidence has seen her through a varied career. She currently works at Barefoot Medical Centre, where she regularly meets people from all walks of life and has learned to handle difficult situations calmly – something sure to help should she make it into the Big Brother House.
Her main tactic in tough scenarios? “Kill them with kindness”.
Sarah has also worked in the film industry, appearing in Taika Waititi’s New Zealand production of Time Bandits and spending time on Star Wars sets with major figures including George Lucas, Natalie Portman and Samuel L. Jackson.
If selected, Sarah hopes to bring plenty of humour, a willingness to tackle every challenge and perhaps a little mischief, admitting her fellow housemates may need to keep a close eye on the chocolate supply.
“I just want to get in there and show everyone that I’m just like everybody else,” she said.
Big Stadium Rock Show. All photos supplied: Airlie Beach Hotel.
Airlie Beach is turning up the volume this weekend as the Big Stadium Rock Show brings two free afternoons of classic 80s and 90s anthems to the Airlie Beach Hotel.
Taking over the stage on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th September, the production celebrates the days when rock was loud, hair was big and live shows were packed with commanding vocals, screaming guitar solos and plenty of theatrics.
Powerhouse vocalists Shaleena Bain, Tara Graham and Adam Spizzo will lead audiences through some of the era’s most recognisable hits, made famous by rock giants including Guns N’ Roses, Aerosmith, Def Leppard, Metallica, AC/DC, KISS, Van Halen, Mötley Crüe, Bon Jovi, Ozzy Osbourne and Whitesnake.
Backed by a killer live rock band, the trio can transform even an intimate venue into a stadium, recreating the larger-than-life performances that made these artists rock legends.
Since debuting in 2021, the Big Stadium Rock Show has become one of Wild Goat Entertainment producer Melanie Evans’ most successful productions. It returns to Airlie Beach under the direction of Maureen Bowra and Tommy Hynes, bringing the spirit of the world’s biggest rock stages to the heart of the Whitsundays.
Audiences are invited to sing along, pump their fists and put their best air-guitar skills to the test. Those feeling particularly nostalgic can even dust off the spandex attire, maybe even style your hair all big. Although there will be no judgement for anyone who prefers to sit back and enjoy the show instead.
The show will run from 2pm to 5.30pm on both afternoons. Entry is free, with table bookings available through the Airlie Beach Hotel website.
What: Big Stadium Rock Show
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday 19th September and Sunday 20th September, from 2pm-5.30pm
11th White on Whitehaven Long Lunch, 9am-5pm, Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays
11th Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine
11th 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
12th White on Whitehaven Long Lunch, 9am-5pm, Whitehaven Beach, Whitsundays
12th Bowen Orchid and Foliage Society Spring Show, 10am, Bowen Showgrounds, Bowen
12th Cocktail Playground, 12pm-4:30pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
12th Soul Cutz, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
12th 2026 Whitsunday Airport Shute Harbour Runway Dinner, TBA, Main Terminal, Shute Harbour Road, Whitsundays
13th Proserpine Community Spring Market, 8am-12pm, Proserpine Showgrounds, Proserpine
13th Soul Cutz, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
13th Whitsundays Writers Festival, 11am-4:30pm, Whitsunday Marine Club, Cannonvale
17th FREE Salsa & Bachata Social, 7:30pm-9pm, Hog’s Breath Café, Airlie Beach
18th Proserpine Community Centre FREE Community Lunch, 11am-12:30pm, 36 Gardenia Street, Proserpine
18th 74 Islands Cocktail Club, 4pm-10pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
19th Cocktail Playground, 12pm-4:30pm, 74 Islands Distillery, 24 Mount Whitsunday Drive, Airlie Beach
19th Big Stadium Rock Show, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
20th Big Stadium Rock Show, 2pm-5:30pm, Airlie Beach Hotel, Airlie Beach
22nd The Librarian, 11am-12pm, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, Proserpine
Teeny Tiny Stevies (ABC Kids). Photo credit: Brian Carr.
From toilet training to teaching children they are the boss of their own bodies, Teeny Tiny Stevies have a knack for turning some of childhood’s trickiest lessons into songs the whole family can enjoy.
Now, the ARIA Award-winning children’s group is bringing its colourful catalogue to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Friday 25th September, promising a proper live gig that the kids and parents can get around.
“It is a proper live gig with a four-piece band, there are no backing tracks or characters dressed up in costumes,” said Sibylla Stephen, co-founder and vocalist of the Teeny Tiny Stevies.
“There’s lots of fun and engagement for the kids, but there are also jokes aimed straight at mum and dad, so we hope it’s a really enjoyable experience for the whole family.”
Sibylla and her sister Beth have performed together in their grownup band, The Little Stevies, since they were 18. About a decade ago, they launched Teeny Tiny Stevies as a way to help their own children learn through music.
“I had a three-year-old and a new baby, and I was trying to teach my child how to use the toilet,” Sibylla said.
“You never really think about how to do that until you’re teaching another human being, so I instinctively started looking for songs and books that could help.”
Their songs have also found a place beyond the stage, with schools, childcare centres and educators using them to introduce young children to important topics in a positive and approachable way.
One of their best-known tracks, Boss of My Own Body, helps children understand body autonomy and personal safety, while their unlikely breakout hit, I Only Go to the Toilet on the Toilet, continues to make toilet training a little easier for families.
Set to go on tour, Sibylla still feels the most rewarding part is seeing those songs create small moments of connection between parents and their children.
“We’re able to provide these little experiences and then watch them happen in front of us, it’s so cool,” Sibylla said.
11th September
ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Phoenix Revival, 8pm-10pm
Grand View Hotel Bowen: DJ night, 8pm onwards
12th September
ABH: Soulcutz, 2pm-5:30pm
ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm
Sorrento’s: Andrew Baldino, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Phoenix Revival, 8pm-10pm
Grand View Hotel Bowen: Luke Miller Band, 8pm onwards
13th September
ABH: Soulcutz, 2pm-5:30pm,
ABH: Paul Fergus Morris, 6:30-9:30pm
Sorrentos: Ash Smith, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Sam McCann, 8pm-10pm
Grand View Hotel Bowen: Nite Johnson, 1pm-5pm
14th August
Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Sam McCann , 8pm-10pm
15th September
Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill: Grace Franklin, 8pm-10pm
16th September
Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm [Text Wrapping Break]KC’s Bar & Grill: Grace Franklin, 8pm-10pm
17th September
ABH: Aaron Saxon, 6:30pm-9:30pm
Sorrentos: Lucy Rose, 4pm-7pm
KC’s Bar & Grill:, 8pm-10pm
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