Friday 6^th 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 7^th 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 8^th 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 11^th 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

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On March 7^th and 8^th, 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 7^th – 8^th, 2.30-5.30pm

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

1. Late For Woodstock, coming soon to Airlie Beach Hotel. Photo Supplied

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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)

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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:

• Australian, Queensland or regional local authors that people would like to see present at the festival
• Ideas for types of sessions and how they could be carried out
• Ways the festival could best celebrate and involve the unique stories, history, and people of the Whitsundays and North Queensland
• Little touches, surprises, or special experiences that could be added to make the festival feel unique and memorable

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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Friday 27 February

Crochet and Conversation
9am

Locals are invited to a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee, and conversation. Participants can BYO crochet tools or borrow from the communal box. Beginners are welcome, and the group is perfect for crafters or anyone who enjoys connection over a coffee. During summer, sessions are inside with air-conditioning; in cooler months, enjoy the shade sails outside along the beautiful Bucasia Esplanade.

Beachfront Bar & Restaurant, Bucasia Esplanade

Kucom Theatre Happy Hour
6–7.30pm

Join Kucom Theatre for its February Happy Hour, featuring a licensed bar and casual social atmosphere. The event is open to all, offering a great chance to relax, mingle, and enjoy a drink before the weekend. It’s perfect for anyone looking for an easy-going evening with friends or meeting new faces from the local community.

1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove

Eat Street & Live Music
From 6pm

A fun evening for families and locals with free children’s activities including a gymnastics airtrack. Enjoy live music from Jamesley while sampling a variety of food and drinks available on site. The event combines entertainment, food, and community engagement, creating a lively atmosphere for all ages. Bring the family and soak up the vibrant waterfront energy.

Blue Water Quay, Mackay

Sunday 1 March

Clean Up Australia Day – Harbour Beach
7am
Pioneer Catchment Landcare invites the community to help keep Harbour Beach clean and rubbish-free. Bring sun-smart clothing, enclosed shoes, a hat, reusable water bottle, gloves or tongs, and snacks. Families, friends, and individuals are welcome to join. Participation helps protect local land and ocean habitats, and volunteers can make a real difference while enjoying time outdoors in a positive, community-focused environment.

Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club

Barefoot Bowls
9–11am

Start the day with barefoot bowls at Marian Bowls Club, followed by a sausage sizzle. Bowls are provided, and no experience is necessary, making it perfect for beginners or social players. Participants are encouraged to wear flat-soled shoes or go barefoot and bring a hat for sun protection. It’s a friendly, active way to meet new people and enjoy a morning of fun and fitness.

Marian Bowls Club, Reg Smith Street

Sarina Country Music Family Afternoon
1pm
Enjoy a Sunday afternoon of live country music with the family at the Sarina Sporting & Services Club. Admission is $5, and new artists are welcome to perform with the available backing band. Bistro opens at 11.30am, and a free courtesy bus is available. The event is open to everyone, creating a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where locals can enjoy music, food, and community connection.

Sarina Sporting & Services Club, Brewers Road

Wednesday 4 March

Mackay Mums Circle
9.30am
Mackay Mums Circle offers a mid-week catch-up for mums and little ones (newborn to five years). The drop-in session is free and casual, with no agenda—just time to relax, chat, and connect while kids play. Bring a picnic rug, snacks, hats, and sun protection. Optional plates to share are welcome. Sessions run from 9.30–10.30am, but participants can stay as long as needed.

John Breen Park, North Mackay

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Airlie Beach is set for a huge weekend of classic rock as the Airlie Beach Hotel hosts two massive free tribute shows celebrating the music of Foreigner and Bon Jovi.

The action begins on Saturday, 28 February, when Bon Jovi Forever – The Australian Bon Jovi Show takes to the stage from 2pm to 5.30pm. Touring internationally and renowned as one of the world’s hottest Bon Jovi tribute acts, the show delivers the ultimate experience for fans of the New Jersey rock legends.

Audiences can expect a high-energy afternoon packed with powerhouse hits and fan favourites from Bon Jovi, including “Livin’ on a Prayer”, “Always”, “Bed of Roses”, “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “It’s My Life”. The production has previously featured on national television programs such as The AFL Footy Show and Foxtel’s The Tribute Show, showcasing its authenticity and stage presence. Known for selling out venues across the country, the band promises an afternoon that will have diehard fans and casual listeners alike singing along.

The rock celebrations continue on Sunday, March 1, with a double-header event from 2pm to 5.30pm. Kicking off the afternoon from 2pm to 3.30pm is The Australian Foreigner Show, a tribute to the chart-topping sounds of Foreigner. The show captures the feel and presence of one of rock’s most successful bands, performing classics such as “I Want to Know What Love Is”, “Cold as Ice”, “Urgent”, “Feels Like the First Time”, “Waiting for a Girl Like You”, “Hot Blooded” and “Juke Box Hero”.

From 4pm to 5.30pm, the very best of Bon Jovi returns to close out the weekend in style, ensuring back-to-back anthems and a lively atmosphere.

With two afternoons of free live entertainment in the heart of town, the Airlie Beach Hotel is the place to be for locals and visitors looking to enjoy great music, waterfront views and an electric party atmosphere.

Saturday 28 February

WHAT: Bon Jovi Forever – Australian Bon Jovi Show

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: 2pm til 5:30pm

Sunday 1 March

WHAT: Double Header, Best of Bon Joni and Foreigner – Australian Bon Jovi Show and The Australian Foreigner Show

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: 2pm til 5:30pm

Photo source: Facebook

GIG GUIDE – 20^th FEB

Friday 20 February

Airlie Beach Hotel: Jam Hot Live – Sports Bar (8am – 11pm)

Grandview Hotel: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)

Saturday 21 February

Airlie Beach Hotel: Jam Hot Live (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Mad Mariachi (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)

KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Bad Girl (1pm – 5pm)

Sunday 22 February

Airlie Beach Hotel: Mad Mariachi (2pm – 5.30pm)

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

Coral Sea Marina Resort: Noah Davis (1pm – 5pm)

KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm – 7pm)

Grandview Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Monday 23 February

KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

Tuesday 24 February

KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

Wednesday 25 February

KCs: Dylan Hammond (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

Thursday 26 February

Airlie Beach Hotel: Pluto Tango (7pm – 10pm)

KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)

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The Whitsundays Writers Festival returns on Sunday 13 September 2026 with a one-day celebration of local authors, regional stories, and the readers who bring them to life.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday Marine Club, Airlie Beach, the festival promises an engaging, thought-provoking, and community-focused experience for all ages.

Festival-goers can look forward to two intimate panel discussions, exploring the journey from inspiration to publication, and the creative sparks that drive storytelling. Hear from talented local authors as they share insights, experiences, and advice for aspiring writers. The day will also feature author readings, the presentation of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, and Stories by the Sea — a lively book buy-and-swap event celebrating local voices and community participation.

Stay tuned for full program details and ticket releases, and don’t miss your chance to be part of the region’s premier literary celebration.

Save the Date

When: 10:30am-4:30pm Sunday 13 September 2026
Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Ave, Airlie Beach

Calling Local Authors – Expression of Interest Now Open!

Are you a published author living in the Whitsundays, Central or North Queensland region? We’d love to hear from you!

For the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, we’re inviting local authors to express interest in joining two engaging panel conversations.

Local authors can also confirm a dedicated space to sell books directly to festival attendees.

EOI deadline: 11:59pm, Saturday 28 February 2026
Complete the online form: 2026 Expression of Interest – Whitsundays Writers

Start writing! 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards

We’re excited to announce the 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, celebrating the next generation of Australian storytelling. This year’s awards include:

Best Short Story – Adult & Under 18 divisions
First prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500Up to 3,000 words of unpublished creative fiction

Poetry PrizeFirst prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500Up to 50 lines of unpublished poetry
Judged on originality, creativity, and expressiveness

Entries open 16 March to 30 June 2026 with a $20 entry fee.

These awards are a vital investment in Australian literary culture, giving local and national writers the chance to have their work recognised and celebrated. Don’t miss the opportunity to join a community that champions creativity, imagination, and the power of storytelling.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsundays Writers Festival.

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Laughter is on its way to the Whitsundays as the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow rolls into town, bringing a taste of Australia’s biggest comedy celebration to our own backyard. For nearly 30 years, this travelling showcase has carried the spirit of the festival far beyond the bright lights of the city, connecting regional communities with world-class performers and emerging talent alike.

For Proserpine and the greater Whitsundays region, events like this matter. Hosting the Roadshow at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre reinforces the importance of investing in local arts infrastructure and ensuring our communities remain culturally vibrant.

Live comedy does more than entertain. It brings people together, sparks conversation and offers a much-needed release from the pressures of daily life. When residents can gather with friends, share a laugh and support a live performance close to home, it strengthens social bonds and boosts the local economy through dining, hospitality and tourism.

The Roadshow’s carefully curated line-up promises a mix of established comedy heavyweights and exciting new voices, delivering sharp wit, clever storytelling and plenty of surprises. It’s a reminder that regional Australia deserves access to the very best in live performance.

For the Whitsundays, this isn’t just a night out: it’s a celebration of connection, culture and community, right here where we live.

Photo sourced

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Saturday 21^st February

Harbour Moon Market

4pm

Come along to the Harbour Moon Market and enjoy a relaxed evening by the water on Friday 21 February from 4pm to 8pm at Mackay Harbour. Featuring live music, handmade treasures, meat raffles, sweet treats and local food trucks, the family-friendly event celebrates local makers and community spirit. With harbour views at sunset and a gold coin entry, locals are encouraged to come along, support small businesses and enjoy a magical night under the moon.

Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, Lot 67 East Point Dr, Mackay Harbour

Sunday 22^nd February

Come & Try Lawn Bowls

10am

Locals are invited to try lawn bowls at Mackay City Bowls Club on Sunday 22 February from 10am to 11:30am. Bowls will be supplied, and a free sausage sizzle follows the session. Participants should wear flat-soled shoes, thongs, socks, or go barefoot. This fun, welcoming event is open to all ages, and interested community members can register by calling Janette on 0427 275 492.

Mackay City Bowls Club

Mutual Aid Networking Picnic

11am

Yuwi locals and supporters of Anarchists Against Poverty are invited to a relaxed, family-friendly gathering on Sunday 22 February to discuss future mutual aid efforts in the region. Topics will include anti-racist action, upcoming events, fundraising initiatives and the potential launch of a Free Shop. With food and drinks provided, community members are encouraged to come along, connect with like-minded residents and take part in practical conversations focused on strengthening and rebuilding local communities.

River Wharves Yuwi

Mackay Country & Western Club Family Afternoon

1.30pm

Locals are invited to the Mackay Country & Western Club Family Afternoon on Sunday 22 February at the Senior Citizens Hall, Macalister Street, Mackay. Kicking off at 1:30pm, the event welcomes new artists and features a band for anyone who wishes to perform. With a $5 admission, community members of all ages are encouraged to come along, enjoy an afternoon of music, and connect with fellow country and western enthusiasts. For more information, contact Charlie on 0408 776 564.

Senior Citizens Hall, Macalister Street, Mackay

Monday 23^rd February

Seniors Chair Yoga

10.45am

Seniors aged 55 and over are invited to take part in the Northern Beaches Seniors Chair Yoga program at the Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia. Held on Mondays from 10:45am to 11:30am, the gentle, accessible sessions focus on mindful movement, stretching and relaxation from a seated position. With tea and coffee beforehand and a welcoming atmosphere, locals are encouraged to come along, connect with others and enjoy a safe, supportive approach to wellbeing.

Northern Beaches Community Hall

Come & Try Lawn Bowls

1pm

Locals are invited to try lawn bowls at Mackay City Bowls Club every Monday from 23 February to 30 March, 1pm–2:30pm. Bowls will be supplied, and participants can wear flat-soled shoes, thongs, socks, or go barefoot. Open to all ages and skill levels, this welcoming event encourages community members to join in, have fun, and learn a new sport. To register, phone Janette on 0427 275 492.

Mackay City Bowls Club

Tuesday 24^th February

BMA Kidspace – Free Art, Craft & Music for Toddlers

9.30am

Families are invited to enjoy BMA Kidspace, a free and much-loved toddlers’ program for children aged 0–5 years at Artspace Mackay. Held one Tuesday each month from 9:30am to 1:30pm, the program features two drop-in art sessions and live music for little ones to sing and dance along to. No bookings are required. Parents and carers are encouraged to bring their toddlers along for a creative, fun-filled morning in a welcoming, family-friendly environment.

Artspace Mackay

Locals are invited to join the Seaforth RSL Sub-Branch on February 24 for the district’s first-ever commemorative service for National War Animal Day. The short service will begin at 3.30pm at ANZAC Memorial Park, Seaforth, followed by afternoon tea at the CWA Hall.

Also known as Purple Poppy Day, the occasion honours the millions of animals, including horses, donkeys, mules, camels, dogs, cats, and pigeons, who served alongside soldiers in conflicts past, recognising their loyalty and sacrifice.

As part of this tribute, the Seaforth RSL Sub-Branch is planning an upgrade to the local cenotaph, including a dedicated space to commemorate the service of these animals, ensuring their bravery is remembered alongside that of human service members.

Everyone is welcome to attend and pay their respects to these often-overlooked heroes of history.

What: National War Animal Day commemorative service (Purple Poppy Day)
When: Saturday, 24 February, 3.30 pm
Where: ANZAC Memorial Park, Seaforth, followed by afternoon tea at the CWA Hall

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