Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
What began with a love of creating beautiful experiences has grown into seven years of helping locals celebrate, connect and spend time together, without taking on all the work that comes with putting an event together. The Best Intentions Tent Co, founded and owned by Candace Reed, has evolved from a small glamping business into a luxury glamping and event-hire operation, providing styled bell tents and Cinema Luxe packages for everything from weddings and festivals to children’s parties, corporate events and backyard movie nights. “I think what makes The Best Intentions Tent Co special is that we don’t simply hire out a tent – we create an experience,” Candace said. The business provides tents, beds, hotel-quality linen, lighting and styling, with customers able to have equipment delivered, set up and packed down for them. “We take a blank outdoor space and transform it into somewhere people genuinely want to spend time,” Candace said. “Our customers don’t have to worry about transporting equipment, setting up beds, styling tents or packing everything away afterwards. They can simply turn up and just enjoy themselves.” As a locally owned business, Candace remains hands-on throughout the process, from the initial enquiry and planning through to styling, set-up and pack-down. “Being a small business means customers generally deal directly with me, which is something I really value,” she said. “I get to know the event, understand what the customer is looking for and then help bring the idea to life.” A highlight of the business’ offerings is its Cinema Luxe package, which brings outdoor movie nights to backyards, schools and community events, complete with a screen, projector, sound system and comfortable seating. “Glamping isn’t just for festivals and weddings!” Candace said. The company caters to children’s sleepovers, girls’ weekends, hens’ parties, bridal parties and milestone celebrations, with flexibility to develop events around a customer’s vision, colour palette and budget. Candace says the most rewarding part is seeing an empty space transformed and then watching people use it. “But the best part is probably the feedback afterwards,” she added. “Hearing that someone’s wedding guests loved their glamping village, that a child thought their sleepover was the best birthday ever, or that a group of friends stayed up late talking and laughing in their tents is what makes all the hard work worthwhile.” Looking ahead, The Best Intentions Tent Co is focused on expanding its wedding and event glamping villages, while continuing to develop its children’s parties, sleepovers, outdoor cinema and celebration offerings. The business is also exploring opportunities to work alongside Council and other local organisations on new events across the region. Ultimately, The Best Intentions Tent Co aims to take care of the practical details, allowing locals to spend more time enjoying their occasion without the hassle of organising everything themselves. “You don’t have to do it all yourself!” “You bring the occasion, we’ll do the hard work for you!” www.bestintentionstentco.com
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This year’s Mackay Seniors Expo attracted a strong turnout at The Big Shed last Tuesday, with thousands of people attending the annual event to connect with local organisations, services and support available to older residents. Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson said this year’s Expo was one of the biggest the event had seen, with about 100 exhibitors providing information and support to seniors and their families. “This is always a great expo, there's thousands of people here today, and I think it's probably one of the biggest we've seen yet.” Emphasising the importance of connection and supporting older residents, Mayor Williamson said, “We, as a community, aren't complete as a community, unless we're looking after our older citizens.” Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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Saturday 19th September BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival Saturday 19th & Sunday 20th The BMA Mackay Triathlon Festival returns this weekend for two days of racing and community fun along Mackay’s coastline. The festival brings together athletes, families and fitness enthusiasts for triathlon, duathlon, aquathlon, aquabike, open water swimming and a mini kids triathlon. From beginners to experienced competitors, participants can take part in a range of events in a welcoming, community-focused environment, with the Standard Distance Triathlon featuring a 1.5km swim, 40km bike and 10km run. Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, Mackay Harbour Ekphrastic Writing Club 1pm Artspace Mackay will host its September Ekphrastic Writing Club this Saturday, offering a free and relaxed session for writers and anyone wanting to explore their creative skills. Participants will take a ‘slow look’ at a selected artwork in the main gallery before responding to it through writing and discussion. The session is suitable for experienced writers and beginners, providing a quiet and supportive space to explore ekphrastic writing, a creative practice inspired by visual art. Participants are asked to bring a pen and notebook. Artspace Mackay Behind the Figures Exhibition 5.30pm The Just Saying Project will open Behind the Figures this Saturday, a free exhibition exploring women’s experiences of body image, confidence and self-perception through the work of eight local visual artists. The exhibition draws on original research involving more than 100 women, with artists interpreting stories and statistics around body image and the impact it can have on women’s lives. Opening night will also mark the first official exhibition at JSP Home of Women’s Stories, with the exhibition continuing through November. Shop 5, 31 Wood Street, Mackay Monday 21st September Yarnbomb Mackay 9.30am Yarnbomb Mackay invites locals to join its community knitting and crochet sessions, creating colourful installations for Mackay City Heart. Held at Jamaica Blue Sydney Street Markets, the free sessions welcome all ability levels, including beginners, with participants able to learn new skills while chatting with fellow crocheters over a cuppa. All materials are provided, making it a relaxed way to get involved in a creative community project and help add some colour to the Mackay city centre. Jamaica Blue Sydney St Markets, Gordon Street, Mackay What Is AI? Information Session 10am Mackay Regional Council Libraries will host an introductory session on Artificial Intelligence this Monday, offering locals a simple and practical look at how AI is becoming part of everyday life. The session will explore what AI is, how it works, different types of AI and examples of how it is used, along with its benefits and potential risks including privacy, misinformation, bias and ethical concerns. Attendees will also learn tips for using AI safely and responsibly. The session is suitable for beginners and anyone curious about AI. Dudley Denny City Library, Mackay Tuesday 22nd September Walk & Talk Book Club 8am The Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens will host its Walk & Talk Book Club this Tuesday, combining reading, gentle exercise and conversation in the gardens. The group meets fortnightly to walk and chat about a new title, with members able to stay afterwards for a social coffee. A new book is selected each month, with discussions held throughout the month. Participants are asked to bring sensible walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen and water. Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Wednesday 23rd September Games On The Lawn 10am Mackay Regional Council Libraries will bring Games on the Lawn to the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens this Wednesday, with locals invited to enjoy a relaxed morning of outdoor games with family and friends. A range of games will be available to play, including Bag Toss, Giant Jenga, Backyard Dice, Bocce Ball and Four in a Row. The free activity is a simple way to get outdoors, enjoy some friendly competition and spend time together at the gardens. Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
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Perched above the coastal city of Mackay, Cape Hillsborough is the kind of place where there’s so much to explore it feels like there might never be enough time to take it all in. Its centerpiece is Casuarina Beach. The long sweep of sand framed by rugged coastal cliffs is enough to make the trip for on its own, but the landscape is only half the attraction. To see Cape Hillsborough at its most unforgettable, the journey begins in the early hours of the day. The sunrise here is among Queensland’s most spectacular, helped by an open outlook across the Coral Sea. Facing east, the bay offers a clear horizon, allowing the first traces of colour to spread uninterrupted across the sky before the sun emerges over the water. On either side, the volcanic headlands of Cape Hillsborough and Andrews Point rise in silhouette, while Wedge Island and scattered offshore rocks break up the horizon. The tide can make the display even more impressive. At low or mid-tide, a thin sheet of water often remains across the sand, turning the beach into a broad mirror that reflects the pinks, oranges and golds overhead. The clouds can play their own part as well. Hanging low over the eastern horizon, they briefly hold back the direct sunlight, flexing the sky's colour potential before the first rays finally break through. For many visitors, however, the main attraction is the locals. Eastern grey kangaroos and wallabies emerge from the surrounding bushland early in the morning and make their way onto Casuarina Beach, foraging along the tide line and wandering across the sand. It is a scene that feels unmistakably Australian and one that has become the signature image of Cape Hillsborough. Sunrise times change throughout the year, so check ahead, arrive at least 30 minutes early and remember to keep your distance from these remarkable wild animals. When the sun has finished its ascent, it’s time to begin your exploration. Halliday bay, just down the road, is a great local spot to park-up at. This compact beach is tucked into a sheltered corner of the coastline, bordered by calm water and a narrow beachfront reserve, with dolphins regularly passing close to shore. At low tide, the sand stretches almost 200 metres towards the sea, revealing plenty of shoreline to wander and traverse along the rocks. But the bay’s best-kept secret waits at its southern end. Hidden at the end of the beach, the narrow McBrides Point Lookout track climbs to the top of the headland in just five minutes. It is short but slightly steep, with plenty of rocks and exposed roots, so pull on comfy shoes. When you hit the summit, it’s a view that could capture you for hours. Climb atop the giant granite boulders and take in sweeping views across Ball Bay and Halliday Bay. During whale season, you may even catch sight of one passing offshore. It is a small and easy climb with a reward far bigger than the distance suggests.
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With the September school holidays upon us, families are invited to head to Dunes Harbour Beach for the return of the ever-popular Coastal Kids - a free community event packed with entertainment, activities and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors together.
Designed to bring local families together, Coastal Kids offers a fun-filled morning where children can play, explore and make new friends, while parents enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and connect with others in the community.
This year's event promises plenty of excitement, with Jake from HitFM broadcasting live throughout the morning and capturing all the action. Children can look forward to a range of outdoor games, face painting, fantastic giveaways and a traditional sausage sizzle, while parents can enjoy a complimentary coffee before settling in to watch the fun unfold.
More than just a morning of entertainment, Coastal Kids is an opportunity for families to step away from screens, spend quality time together and experience the vibrant community spirit that makes Dunes Harbour Beach such a popular destination.
Whether you're a regular attendee or visiting for the first time, everyone is welcome to come along, meet other local families and create lasting school holiday memories.
Coastal Kids will be held on Thursday, 24 September, from 9.00am to 12.00pm at Dunes Harbour Beach, Sol Drive, adjacent to the Community Square.
The event is free to attend, making it an easy and enjoyable way to keep the children entertained during the school holidays while celebrating everything that makes our local community so special.
Proudly brought to you by the URBEX team, Coastal Kids continues to be one of the region's favourite family events, and organisers look forward to welcoming everyone for another memorable morning by the beach.
Photo source: Mackay Regional Council
Families, parents and carers gathered at Queens Park on Wednesday 9th September for Party in the Park, a free community event held during Child Protection Week.
The event provided an opportunity for parents and carers to connect in a relaxed outdoor setting while learning more about support services available throughout the Mackay community.
Children were kept entertained with a range of free activities, including face painting, jumping castles and a sausage sizzle, while parents and carers could enjoy a free coffee and connect with local support organisations.
Party in the Park formed part of Child Protection Week, which this year encouraged communities to turn conversations about child safety and wellbeing into action.
Held at Queens Park, the event brought families together for a morning of activities, connection and information in a welcoming community environment.
A writer’s festival is about books. Isn’t it?
Not if you were at the Whitsunday Marine Club on Sunday, where the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival opened with a 30-minute violin performance from local solicitor, Giulian Grasso, and closed with Mackay business identity, John Glanville, singing and reading poetry to a room that felt more like family than an audience.
In between: live art was created and auctioned, vouchers were won, raffles drawn, the region’s own literary prizes handed out … and yes, there were plenty of books.
More than 100 attendees packed the Marine Club for a day of information, laughter, and refreshments, all in service of one simple challenge: go home and write your own story.
Festival President, Richard Evans, opened with a tribute to feminist icon Gloria Steinem, who died earlier this month.
“Please tell your own story,” he said, quoting Steinem.
“This is how we know each other and how we build a more respectful and compassionate world.”
It was a fitting opening for a festival with a story of its own. Richard traced the festival’s journey from its beginnings on Daydream Island in 2010 through the 2017 death of founder Gloria Burley, noting her memorial service was held in the very room the festival now called home for 2026 Festival.
Townsville’s Rachel Armstrong, the multi-award-winning romance author, delivered the From the Heart keynote, sharing her own writing journey. Her advice: be passionate about what you want to achieve, and never give up. And for anyone still weighing up whether to start, stop thinking about writing, and just do it.
That message ran through the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, presented during the day. Three shortlisted Under 18 writers received their certificates, while Mackay’s Janet Humphreys took out the runner-up prize in the Open Age Short Story category. “No small feat”, she said, among more than 90 entries from across the country. Local poet Suzy Gordon read the winning and runner-up poems aloud to the room, giving the words a life beyond the page.
Two panels tackled whether the rest of us can, and should, write our own stories. Is There a Book in You? offered a clear answer. Everyone has a story worth telling, and the only thing standing between an idea and a finished page is starting. A second panel, on where ideas come from, landed on the same lesson: inspiration can strike anywhere, so don’t let it go to waste.
The day closed with the festival’s free community celebration, Stories by the Sea. Local authors displayed their titles, Whitsunday Regional Council Libraries ran children’s activities, and a community book swap sent families home with something new to read. Four Street Libraries crafted by the Airlie Beach Men’s Shed went under silent auction, with bidders competing to bring a piece of the festival home to their own street.
Mayor Ry Collins and Councillor Clay Bauman dropped by, alongside a well-fed crowd enjoying the sausage sizzle and delicious treats from make your own cake cart. The most talked-about moment belonged to Creative Connections Whitsunday (CCW), whose five local artists spent four hours painting a Whitsundays landscape live before the crowd voted for their favourite.
The winner, Jahla Thompson, was awarded $200 of framing courtesy of Kenyon Framing. CCW president Glenda Brown said she was taken aback by how closely the crowd followed the artists’ progress, “it was a great event,” she said.
Richard closed by looking ahead to 2027, flagging a Festival of Ideas, a Love Letter to Queensland event, a Stanza Bonanza poetry reading, and a Big Book Club High Tea romance readers edition, with sessions on AI and crime writing under consideration. He returned to Steinem’s words to send the crowd home.
“Please tell your story,” he said. “This is the most important thing we can do for each other. To know each other through our words and our stories.”
For a community that turned out in force to hear that message, on a Sunday, by the water, it’s hard to argue the Whitsundays isn’t already listening.
Photo caption: Richard Evans
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’stold, 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.
Whitsundays Writers Festival
Richard Evans
Festival Director and President
hello@whitsundayswriters.com
Save the date for the 2027 Whitsundays Writers Festival, 10-12 September.
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.
What if you could take home an original artwork by a local artist for just $100?
Art lovers will have the chance to discover original works by some of the Whitsundays’ emerging, professional and award-winning artists when Creative Connections Whitsunday (CCW) hosts a special $100 Art Night at its Community Gallery on Thursday 24th September.
From 6pm to 8pm, the Gallery will be transformed into a celebration of local art, featuring a collection of small original artworks created and donated by artists from across the region.
Every artwork in the special collection will be priced at $100, giving visitors an accessible way to purchase an original work while directly supporting the Gallery and its ongoing work within the local arts community.
Gallery Coordinator and CCW Vice President Linda Forrester said the event was designed to bring people together around local art while showcasing the breadth of talent in the region.
“There’s something special about discovering an artwork you connect with and knowing that the person who created it lives and works in our community,” Linda said.
The evening will feature an art auction, People’s Choice Award, raffle, light refreshments and a cash bar. Visitors can also browse original artworks, handmade pieces and gifts, with all $100 artwork proceeds supporting the Community Gallery and future creative programs.
Event organiser Gemma-Louise Pap said the evening was also about celebrating the strong creative community that has grown around the Gallery.
“CCW is fortunate to have such a diverse creative community around us,” Gemma-Louise said.
“We’re looking forward to bringing everyone together for a relaxed evening where the art really is the star.”
What? The $100 Art Night
When? Thursday 24th September, 6pm-8pm
Where? Whitsunday Community Gallery, Proserpine
Visitors to the Whitsundays Writers Festival’s free Stories by the Sea event on Sunday were treated to a unique display of creativity as local artists took part in the Creative Connections Whitsunday Plein Air Challenge.
Working on location at the Whitsunday Marine Club, participating artists spent the day creating original works inspired by the coastal setting and atmosphere, giving visitors the opportunity to watch the artworks develop from blank canvas to finished pieces.
Festival visitors were then invited to vote for their favourite work in the People’s Choice Award, with Jahla Thompson taking out the inaugural award and receiving a $200 voucher from R&J Kenyon Framers.
The completed artworks were also offered through a silent auction, with 100 per cent of the sale proceeds going directly to the participating artists.
The Plein Air Challenge was held as part of Stories by the Sea, the Festival’s free community finale, which brought together more than 20 regional authors, readers, families and creatives for an afternoon of books, readings, music, art, and activities.
Jahla’s winning artwork and the other completed works were available for viewing and bidding during the afternoon.
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.
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
Richard Champion. Photo supplied: Richard Champion
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.”
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.
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