Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Friday 24th April Conversations with Art 1.30pm Held one Friday a month at Artspace Mackay, Conversations with Art invites the community to slow down and step inside the world of creativity through relaxed, guided discussion led by gallery staff. Running from 1.30pm to 3.00pm on selected dates between April and November, the free sessions explore artworks and images from gallery and museum collections in an engaging, open format. Designed for all experience levels, from curious beginners to practising artists, the program offers an inclusive space to reflect, question and connect through art. Free tickets available. Artspace Mackay Youth Fest ‘26 2.30pm Young people across Mackay are invited to celebrate Queensland Youth Week at Youth Festival ’26, a free afternoon of entertainment, creativity and connection hosted by the Mackay Youth Council at Northern Beaches Community Hub. Running from 2.30pm to 6.00pm on Friday 24 April, the event will feature free food, live music, visual arts, games, sports and a range of interactive activities designed to bring the community together. Open to ages 11 to 18, Youth Fest ’26 offers a welcoming space to relax, meet new people and try something different in a vibrant, youth-focused atmosphere. Northern Beaches Community Hub Community Jam At Friday Flow 6pm Community members are invited to kick back and enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the river at Community Jam Friday Flow at Bluewater Quay. Running for two and a half hours, the free community gathering offers something for all ages, with children able to burn off energy on a fun gymnastics airtrack while adults unwind to live music from Jamesley. Food and drinks will also be available, creating the perfect setting to catch up with friends, enjoy the waterfront atmosphere and ease into the weekend with the local community. Bluewater Quay Saturday 25th April ANZAC Services Refer to page 10 for a full list of ANZAC Day services taking place across the Mackay and Isaac regions. A wide range of dawn, morning and commemorative services will be held, offering multiple opportunities for the community to come together, pay respects and honour those who laid their life down before us. Abundance Day 9am Come Along for Abundance Day, a celebration of sharing, connection and homegrown produce hosted by the MCG Crew. The event encourages residents to bring along excess fruit, vegetables, seeds or garden harvests, from pumpkins to citrus and everything in between, to share with others in the spirit of “people care and fair share.” Held as a relaxed community gathering, the day also includes a shared morning tea, with participants welcome to bring a plate to contribute. Abundance Day celebrates gardens of all sizes and aims to revive a simple tradition of generosity, sustainability and community spirit through the gift of fresh, seasonal produce. 7 Sarah Street, Mackay Artist Book Collective 10.30am Held on the fourth Sunday of each month, the Artist Book Collective (ABC) invites creatives across the region to connect through the art of bookmaking at Artspace Mackay. Running from 10.30am to 12.30pm in the Workshop Room within the Civic Precinct on Gordon Street, the community-led group brings artists together to share skills, exchange ideas and draw inspiration from the Mackay Regional Council Artists’ Book Collection. New members are encouraged to attend and contribute to a growing local network of book artists, fostering collaboration and creative exploration in a welcoming, hands-on environment. Free tickets available 61 Gordon Street, Mackay True Street ANZAC Day Meet 4pm Gather this ANZAC Day for the True Street Car Meet, beginning from 4.00pm by the beach at Mulherin Park, East Point Avenue near the Surf Life Saving Club. The family-friendly event offers an afternoon showcase of vehicles in a relaxed coastal setting, with space for children to play, a nearby playground, and plenty of room to unwind with a chair or picnic blanket. Attendees are encouraged to settle in and enjoy the sunset atmosphere, with a BBQ also possible on the day. The gathering offers a laid-back way for the community to come together and reflect on ANZAC Day, under the spirit of remembrance and connection. Mulherin Park, East Point Avenue near the Surf Life Saving Club Tuesday 28th April BMA Kids Space 9.30am enjoy BMA Kidspace, a free monthly program for children aged 0–5 years at Artspace Mackay. Running from 9.30am to 1.30pm one Tuesday each month, the drop-in program offers hands-on art-making, live music, singing and dancing in a relaxed, co-operative learning environment. Two art sessions and a dedicated music session allow families to come and go throughout the morning. Supported by Artspace Mackay and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, the program encourages early creativity, play and connection, with no bookings required. Artspace Mackay Free safeTALK Suicide Prevention 6pm Community members are encouraged to attend a free safeTALK Suicide Prevention training session, with bookings essential via www.grapevinegroup.org.au/safeTALK. The workshop teaches participants how to identify someone at risk of suicide, start conversations with people experiencing suicidal thoughts, and connect them with appropriate support services. Delivered by qualified LivingWorks trainers, the internationally recognised program builds practical, life-saving awareness. Places are strictly limited to 30 participants, with early booking recommended. Parents may also bring teenagers aged 15 and over to take part in the training. Ocean International
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Feathers will fly for Mackay audiences when Circa’s Duck Pond arrives to the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on 6 May, reimagining Swan Lake as a contemporary circus spectacular. Directed by Yaron Lifschitz, the production is packed with Circa’s signature physicality and a bold, playful energy. Replacing classical ballet with aerials, acrobatics and tightly choreographed ensemble work, Duck Pond delivers spectacle with a wink. Cheeky visual moments - including a sequinned, flipper-wearing duck army and a burlesque Black Swan - bring humour and surprise to the stage. While the energy is high, the story remains central. Drawing on the familiar tale of swans and hapless princes, the production balances athletic performance with warmth and wit. "Grappling with a masterpiece like Swan Lake is terrifying. Everyone knows the Dance of the Cygnets and the 32 fouettés," says Circa Artistic Director Yaron Lifschitz. "Our role is to bring them into circus and into the twenty-first century. Circus is nowhere near as precise or as refined as ballet. It tends to be shaggy, possibly more exciting, but definitely less elegant. We have to dance that line with as much grace as we can muster." said Lifschitz. Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager of Major Venues, said the production offered something unique for Mackay audiences. “Ballet and circus perform exceptionally well in Mackay, and Circa’s distinctive approach makes this production even more special,” he said. “We’re proud to bring Duck Pond to Mackay and strongly encourage audiences to see Circa in action,” Bobeldyk said. Touching, funny and thoroughly entertaining, Duck Pond is ultimately a story about identity and finding your true self - offering Mackay audiences a fresh and unexpected take on a beloved classic. Duck Pond by Circa will perform one show only on 6 May. Tickets are on sale now. **BREAKOUT/HIGHLIGHT BOX FOR THE BELOW** The MECC and Circa present – Duck Pond Wednesday 6 May, 7.30pm MECC Auditorium Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
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What began in 2016 as a local initiative with a clear purpose has developed into one of Mackay’s most established and impactful community fundraising events. The Key Solutions -M&P Services Annual Charity Golf Day was founded to support those in need across the region, and over the past decade it has become a consistent platform for business, community and charity to come together in a shared effort of giving. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $350,000 for local charities, including $75,000+ in 2025 alone, with support directed to 13 local organisations in the most recent year. The growth of the event reflects a sustained and structured commitment to community investment, underpinned by strong participation from sponsors, players and supporters across the region. In 2025 there was $35,000 in prizes and giveaways on the day plus the mega raffle of a $39,000 club house. The event is a clear winner for the biggest event of its kind in North Queensland. Beneficiaries over the years have included a wide range of vital services and organisations such as Chances House, BMA-CQ Rescue, Ronald McDonald House, Community Accommodation Support Agency, Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, Kidney Support Network, Wildlife Rehabilitation Queensland, Mackay Netball Association, Project Pink, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Mackay Community Visitors Association, Trudy Crowley Foundation & Mackay Cutters Change the Game with a main focus of “Funds Stay Local”. The event wouldn’t be possible without the reoccurring support from some well-known local business who identify the benefits of supporting this well-known charitable event with companies like Key Solutions Group, QCCS, MM Electrical Mackay, Blacksmith Jacks, GB Electrical, RIMEX, SCIG, Harvey Norman and Penske all supporting the event year on year. The 10th Annual Charity Golf Day in 2025 marked a significant milestone, both in scale and impact. With more than 100 donated raffle prizes and auction items, alongside experiential packages valued at over $70,000, the event delivered another strong result for the community. A defining moment came when Mr Rod Allen from Inspec Industries won the $39,000 SCIG Clubhouse, before making the immediate decision to donate it directly to the Trudy Crowley Foundation – an act that captured the true meaning of the day. M&P Services has consistently acknowledged that the success of the event is driven by collective community contribution, with enduring support from sponsors, participants, volunteers and the Mackay Golf Club forming the foundation of its continued growth. Looking ahead, preparations are now underway for the 2026 M&P Services / Key Solutions Group Annual Charity Golf Day, scheduled for Friday 14th August 2026 at Mackay Golf Course. The event will once again bring together business and community leaders for a day centred on connection, competition and measurable local impact. With demand increasing each year and the event traditionally reaching capacity through returning supporters, organisers are encouraging expressions of interest via marketing@mpservices.net.au.
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Founded in 1986 as a modest mechanical and panel shop, M&P Services always punched above its weight. Building on a strong reputation, the family business quickly became a trusted name within the local community. Forty years on, it has grown into an enterprise with not just regional, but national impact. What began as a hands-on service operation, built on practical skill, long hours, and a commitment to getting the job done right, has evolved into a diverse enterprise spanning fleet servicing, transport/logistics and, more recently, the manufacturing of portable buildings and homes. Managing director, Max Lamb Jr, explained: “We're making some pretty big waves against national competition, and we've got a lot of unique products that we've developed ourselves which are changing the way portables are getting utilised.” Their biggest success has been in creating mobile wheeled infrastructure, sought out by clients within mining and construction. These ‘mobile crib units’, fully equipped with all modern amenities, have become an integral part of numerous projects across Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea. The units offer rapid deployment, are easy to transport and offer superior safety, productivity and are especially popular in the current climate providing significant and measurable fuel savings on mining circuits. They cater to industries such as mining, construction, civil and remote area services, providing workers with comfortable, fully functional living and workspaces even in the most challenging environments. Dedicated to staying local, M&P Services manufactures from their purpose built 15m facility in Paget, meeting or exceeding rigorous industry standards. According to Max Jr, the company’s ability to tailor these solutions to the unique demands of clients across various sectors has been key to its ongoing success. As M&P Services expands its operations, it continues to innovate in the field of transportable and modular buildings. Looking back, the company’s success began all the way back in 1986 with Max’s father (Max Snr) and his business partner Peter Brayshaw (dec). “They were just two mates that would hang out on weekends, go fishing and skiing, and have a beer together.” Max Jr said. “At M&P they were performing both mechanical and panel repairs on vehicles, trucks, and trailers. “Fast forward to 40 years, and we're still in the service industry, but the focus has changed.” Though their output has evolved, Max pointed out, the same mentality underpins the mission as it did in 1986. “In the early days of the business, Dad built a good reputation by getting the job done, whether it be loading trucks on weekends, working weekends and all hours of the day or night, as required. “His mentality to just roll your sleeves up and get through the work laid the foundation for what we do now; we just get on with the job, working to a good time frame, and working closely with clients to make sure that they're satisfied.” The strength of M&P’s family values is evidenced by the long-standing staff who have stayed loyal to the business over decades. “The longevity of my employees a makes my job much easier and contributes to easy," Max said. “A large percentage of our staff have been with us more than five and ten years, a few over fifteen and twenty.” Max Jr himself has been with the company since 1992, taking the helm and buying into the business when Mr Brayshaw retired in 1997. “Having worked at the business as an apprentice mechanic from 1992, I've been part of the stunning transformation since," he said. “I still enjoy coming to work every day after 34 years” With his father’s hardworking genes and a vision for design and growth, Max Lamb Jr has led M&P to become one of the largest portable building manufacturers in regional Queensland, but his sights remain firm on the road ahead. What’s a business value you uphold? Giving back to the community. We’re very proud of our annual golf day; we’re holding our eleventh this year. Last year, we raised $75,000 to distribute amongst 13 different local charities. mpservices.net.au
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Whitsunday shores were calling Jesse Reynolds and his family who have just arrived in the region and are looking forward to being part of our lively local community.
In the job for just 10 days, Jesse says he is thrilled to take on the new position and that he is already impressed with the menu.
“One of the biggest selling points of this job was when I flew up here and had dinner on the first night,” said Jesse.
“Everything was en point – the food here doesn’t need to be touched and the restaurant has a great reputation – obviously that makes it more straightforward for me coming into the business.
“It also means that it is easy for me to tweak and refine – my style of food is more contemporary and upmarket – I am also looking forward to introducing more locally caught seafood like coral trout to the menu.”
Originally from Toowoomba, Jesse knew he wanted to be a chef when he was at primary school, after watching his uncle create incredible dishes – he was mesmerised.
As soon as he finished school at 16, he became an apprentice with Steven Simon, a well-known and very tough head chef who Jesse attributes to teaching him the work ethics he lives by to this day.
Upon completing his apprenticeship, Jesse’s talents were soon noticed, and he spent a few years in Brisbane and Stanthorpe, before becoming an Executive Head Chef for Accor in Gladstone.
More recently, Jesse was the Executive Head Chef at the Caloundra Events Centre, where his team would frequently serve over 4,000 meals per week.
He is now Executive Head Chef for Paradiso, La Marina, and La Marina Express in Airlie Beach.
Jesse has two children, a nine-year-old son called Harry and a 16-month-old called William.
In his spare time, he likes to meal-prep for his family, and he is also looking forward to taking Harry fishing when he gets settled into the job.
Secret to being a great chef?
Consistency. If you don’t give consistency people don’t feel safe to come in and trust what they are going to experience. Consistency is the most important part of the job for me!
Signature Dish:
Seared scallops with white truffe cauliflower puree, chorizo, and fried leek.
Jesse Reynolds, Executive Head Chef at Paradiso, La Marina and La Marina Express. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
The team behind the Tiny Homes Project have released details about their next fundraising event.
Tiny Homes Project is an initiative to build four tiny homes for women aged 55 and over, who are experiencing homelessness.
This next event, Let’s Do Latin, set to be held on Saturday, July 8, will “be fabulous”, says event organiser Sandy Clark.
The event will be held on the grassed area next to the Whitsunday Sailing Club, overlooking the Coral Sea.
“It’s the pick of spots in Airlie for a big party style event, and this time we can fit over 200 guests in the area, which is great because all of our previous fundraisers were sold out weeks before the event.”
Featuring Viva Acoustic and her Latino Fiesta Band, event attendees will have the dance floor to themselves, with a limbo competition and other activities happening on the night.
Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant will be catering an array of Latino food, including Mexican-style paella and canapes.
On the night, there will be a raffle and auction, conducted by Paul Skinner of Ray White.
Sponsors for the event include Taylors Property Specialists, The Garden Bar, Mick’s Mobile Computer Services, Slinkylinks, Airlie Tiles, Green Fox Studio, and Fat Frog Café.
Tickets are available from Airlie Events, another sponsor for the night.
Tickets are $125 per person and include a cocktail on arrival, plus amazing Latino food.
WHAT: Let’s Do Latin Fundraiser
WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club Lawn
WHEN: Saturday, July 8
TICKETS: $125 https://bit.ly/Lets-Do-Latin
The Tiny Homes Project to hold another event to raise funds for construction of four tiny homes for homeless women. Photo supplied
The upcoming Whitsunday Multicultural Festival has been backed by big players, with the Whitsunday Regional Council and the Whitsunday PCYC partnering up for the event.
The Whitsunday Multicultural Festival celebrates the 83 different ethnicities and cultures prevalent in the Whitsundays region, and now with the PCYC, the festival will also celebrate 38 new Australian citizens who will be officially sworn in by Mayor Julie Hall.
“In our multicultural society, we find strength in our differences and inspiration in our shared humanity, said Mayor Hall.
“Together, we can build a community that is inclusive, compassionate, and united,”
The Multicultural Festival includes family fun, with a jumping castle, food tastings from around the world, traditional dancers and musicians, a cultural dress parade, cooking classes, face painting, and a multicultural art workshop.
“This is an opportunity for our Whitsunday community’s wide-ranging cultures and ethnic backgrounds to come together and celebrate their unique differences by sharing food, entertainment, and conversation.”
The festival began in 2019, following the devastation of Cyclone Debbie, as an effort to get the community to come together and reconnect, and celebrate the diversity that runs through the Whitsundays.
“As we enjoy the music, dance, food, and traditions of various cultures, let us remember that diversity is not a challenge to be overcome, but an opportunity to be embraced,” Mayor Julie said.
The 2023 Whitsunday Multicultural Festival will be held at the Whitsunday PCYC location in Jubilee Pocket, on Sunday, May 21, from 10am to 2pm.
The Citizenship Ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10am on the main stage of the PCYC, and a Smoking Ceremony will follow at 10.45am.
“Let us use this festival as a reminder that our differences make us stronger and that together, we can create a future that is vibrant, diverse, and filled with boundless possibilities.”
WHAT: Whitsunday Multicultural Festival
WHERE: Whitsunday PCYC at Jubilee Pocket
WHEN: Sunday, May 21
TIME: 10am to 2pm
2023 Production of Sweet Charity
The latest edition of the Proserpine State High School theatre production is an amazing rendition of the classical musical Sweet Charity, based on the book by Neil Simon, music by Cy Coleman, and lyrics by Dorothy Fields.
Sweet Charity follows Charity Hope Valentine, a young dance hall hostess in New York City. Charity has a series of relationship mishaps before she stumbles upon Oscar Lindquist, a shy accountant. The pair become close, engaged, before Oscar panics about Charity’s profession, and declares the wedding off. The production finishes with Oscar pushing Charity into the lake and running off.
The Proserpine State High School student participation in the 2023 production meant that two lead casts were created, a Senior Lead Cast, with Year 11 and 12 leads, and a Junior Lead Cast, of Year 9 and 10 students.
The Junior cast was led by Allegra Bradley, playing Charity, and Blake Hanks, as Oscar. This pair were energetic on stage, commanding the attention of every member of the audience with every piece of dialogue.
Allegra’s vocal prowess shone through the production, dominating every solo perfectly and highlighting her dedication to the theatre arts.
Allegra and Blake first performed on stage in Year 6, in the Cannonvale State School’s production of Aladdin, with Allegra as Jasmine and Blake as Aladdin. For both leads, this production sparked a passion for theatre and performing arts.
Allegra and Blake are joined with a host of other classmates, including Hayden Hudak as Herman, the dancer hall owner, Arwen Edwards-Bland and Ebony Crighton as Helene and Nickie, Charity’s two close friends, and Wiremu Tairaki as Daddy.
Wiremu’s Daddy is a titular character, the leader of the Rhythm of Life Church, and for Wiremu, Sweet Charity was his first musical.
The star said it was very surreal.
“I don’t always act like [my character] daily, but I feel like it’s good to harness this part of myself and let it out on stage,” he explains.
Proserpine State High School’s dedication to set design and characterisation is to be applauded, with Daddy’s car, a hippie-esque rainbow car, making only one appearance in the actual show, but being beautifully decorated and presented on stage.
This goes hand-in-hand with the 23-person orchestra, made up of students, teachers, and members of the wider community.
“To put together a live orchestra is something very special,” said Don McDermid, the School Principal.
Artistic director, Jenny Napier has been a part of Proserpine State High School’s musicals for years, helping students prepare for the productions in every way.
“The students have risen to the challenge and performed with the professionalism for which Proserpine State High School is renowned,” Jenny said.
This was an incredibly professional performance, and all students who were a part of the show, either backstage, with costuming, makeup, lighting, and music, or on the chorus should be incredibly proud of themselves for the fantastic production.
Luke Geiger Live At Harrup Park
Friday, 6pm to 10pm
Luke Geiger is performing at Harrup Park Country Club this Friday. No bookings required and no ticket needed, this will be a great free event for everyone.
Harrup Park Country Club
Elvis One Night In Vegas
Friday, from 7.30pm
Mark Anthony is returning as Elvis in this one night only experience. Mark will push audiences back in time and reminisce on the legend of music, playing all the greatest hits.
Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre
Daisy Day
Saturday, 8.30am to 12pm
Show your love for the Mackay Botanic Gardens and plant over 1,000 Golden Everlasting Daises across the slopes of the Lagoons. Be sure to contact Maya to participate 0436 331 009, or mackayrbgfriends@gmail.com
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
The Smurfs Great Escape
Saturday, 9am to 5pm
In this new immersive escape room-esque game, save the Smurfs from Gargamel and follow a scavenger hunt through the streets of Mackay. In this family friendly experience, you compete against other teams and race against the clock. Tickets available from Eventsonthehorizon.com
Mackay
ZACH MACH Mackay Adventure Challenge
Saturday, 8am to 5pm
Dust off your mountain bike and get your kayak reading, the ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge is gearing up for another round. Mountain Bike down Mia Mia, kayak the Teemburrra Dam, run through the rainforest and ride past cane paddocks, in this epic challenge.
Pinnacle, Queensland
MKC Sugar City Titles
Saturday, 7am to 9pm
Get those karts out of the shed, it’s time to race! All classes of kart accepted, and all race licenses recognised. This will be a day of full of fun for the whole family.
21 Grants Road, Palmyra
Seaforth Mega Markets
Sunday, 8am to 12pm
The Mega Markets are back, showcasing the best of Mackay’s homemade goodies, fresh fruit and veg, plants, and food vendors.
Seaforth
Volunteer Expo 2023
Sunday, 9am to 12pm
Come down to the Mackay Showgrounds and see how you can give back to your community, with local community groups and charities promoting their opportunities for volunteering.
Mackay Showgrounds
Sarina Country Music Family Afternoon
Sunday, from 1pm
Bring your originals or even your favourite songs and celebrate the love of country music at the Sarina Sporting and Services League. With the best of backing bands, sing along to fantastic country music in this family friendly afternoon. Tickets at $5
Sarina Sporting and Services League
Mackay Urban Gelsoft Games
Sunday, 3.30pm to 7.30pm
In this hectic day, test your blaster game with all types of players, 10 years and up, welcome. Bookings are strongly encouraged so get signed up and prepare yourself for an adrenaline fuelled afternoon.
Mackay North State High School
MADSCOTS Whiskey Night
Thursday, from 6.30pm
In a year second, MADSCOTS are holding another Whiskey Night, a fantastic opportunity to taste all the unique whiskies from around the world.
The Dispensary Mackay
Bjorn Again – Thank You For The Music Tour
Thursday, 7.30pm
In a one day show only, Bjorn Again is showcasing their love and dedication to the powerhouse ABBA, in this sing-along, dance-along experience. Tickets begin from $73 and available from themecc.com.au
Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
New concrete has been poured and rev heads in Mackay are getting ready.
The Sugar City Burnouts is quickly approaching and there is no time to wait.
It is no joke about this burn out shows, with audiences and drivers alike eager for the smoke and surprise of the show.
In its 5th year, the 2023 Sugar City Burnout are upping the stakes, making this a show to not miss.
After a pre-event was postponed in March due to poor weather making the Palmyra Drag Racing Club dragway dangerous for drivers, the Sugar City Burnout competition is a welcome return, taking place on the second weekend in May.
On the lineup including pro, eight and six cylinders, and ladies class entrants, including the local six-cylinder CURRYINAHURRY Sugar City Taxi and with entrants coming from as far as Townsville to Wagga Wagga in New South Wales.
With a re-invigorated dragstrip and pad, being extended an extra 10 metres, now totalling 65.3 metres long, with a 22-metre tip in.
The day jampacked with the screech of tyre skidding, smoke blowing, and engines roaring, and with this event being a highlight on the drag and burn out calendar, this is one not to miss on the Mackay calendar.
With a prize pool worth $8,500 across all classes, this competition will have strength, smoke, and high speed tipins.
WHAT: Sugar City Burnouts
WHERE: Palmyra Drag Racing Club, Mackay
WHEN: Saturday, May 13,
TICKETS: mackaytickets.com.au
Join the smoke, engine screech and family laughter at the 2023 Sugar City Burnouts
Mackay Scale Modellers Club hosted its 29th annual exhibition and Model Competition in St Paul’s Uniting Church hall last weekend – attracting enthusiasts from as far as Townsville, Cairns, Rockhampton and Brisbane.
Sponsored by Outlaw Paints and BBs Hobbies Mackay, the judges were impressed by the 150 entries lodged that featured intricate scale models of a variety of subjects including nautical, military, aviation and civil historical themes, spiced up with fantasy and science fiction.
Brent Wood was the recipient of the Greg Martin Memorial Award for Best on Show (Logging Camp) – an award that perpetuates the memory of the Club’s founder with partner Vicki Ayre on hand to present the prize.
Club President Wayne Belzer of BBs Hobbies thanked major sponsor Outlaw Paints for their tremendous support and his tireless team for their work behind the scenes.
“Models on show included scratch-built creations and these scale replicas are the result of the labour of love of talented model makers who worked patiently and diligently for hours to make intricate miniature replicas out of diverse materials,” he said.
Winning modellers were: JUNIOR: Cars & Figures Fictional: Sidney Newlands; Science Fiction & Wooden Models: Alexander Newlands; LEGO & Model Railways: Dallas Head; SENIORS: Aircraft Large Scale: Alvin Whyte; Motorcycles: Greg Canning; Military Vehicle Small Scale: Greg Canning; All Types & Large Scale Tracked: Alvin Whyte; Large Scale Wheeled: Chris Bean; Miscellaneous: Dimi Markou; Scratchbuilt: Rob Farlow; Science Fiction: Ross Moore; Ships Powered: Jeremy Cahill; War Vehicles Gaming Figures: Alvin Whyte; Aircraft Small Scale: Brad Hurley; Cars Modified: Jason Waddell; Cars Out of Box: Alvin Whyte; Cartoon & Egg Models: Ross Moore; Trucks & Civil Vehicles: Jason Waddell; Dioramas & Vignettes: Adam Robins & Brent Wood; Figures Actual: Jeremy Cahill; Fictional: Ross Moore; LEGO Senior: Scott Newland & Myles Somerset; Rail Layouts LEGO Senior: Myles Somerset; Aircraft Display: Myles Somerset; Best World War 2 Model: Tony Hill; Military Vehicle Large Scale: Chris Bean; People’s Choice: Simon Blom.
Mackay Scale Modellers Club President Wayne Belzer (standing far right) with this year’s exhibition competition winners L-R Simon Blom, Rob Farlow, Brent Wood, Ross Moore, Dallas Head, Scott Newlands, Jeremy Cahill, Adam Robins and Alvin Whyte (seated)
Brent Wood receives the Greg Martin Memorial Award for Best on Show (Logging Camp) from the late Modellers Club founder’s partner Vicki Ayre and Club President Wayne Belzer
Lego models filled the exhibit. Photo credit: Chris Karas
Paul Tabone is returning to his roots, bringing his Golden Days show to Mackay in May.
After four years of performing in London’s West End and hanging up his time on Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, playing Ubaldo Piangi, Paul has announced his massive Australian show, Goldens Days: Songs from the Movies and Musicals.
This mammoth of a touring show has Paul travelling lengths of Australia, showcasing his tenor and musical range.
The performance takes audiences on a journey, including much loved classics from the ‘Golden Age’ of music, and drawing on more contemporary favourites, including Disney and popular musicals, including The Student Prince, The Phantom of the Opera and Toast of New Orleans.
Highlight performances include ‘Love Changes Everything’, ‘Bring Him Home’ and ‘Oh, What a Beautiful Morning’.
Moving through decades of music and fantastic inspiration, Paul leaves no member of the audience behind, guiding them through his performance magically.
He will be sharing the stage with friend and past lecturer Professor Judith Brown, with guest appearances of Madison Crase and Isabella Davison.
Being dubbed the ‘tenor from Oz’ is high acclaim, and Paul Tabone does not disappoint. Paul and his Golden Days tour will be at Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM Music, Boundary Road), on Sunday, May 14, at 1pm.
WHAT: Paul Tabone presents Golden Days
WHEN: Sunday, May 14
WHERE: Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music
TICKETS: cqcm.edu.au
Paul Tabone, dubbed Tenor of Oz returns to Mackay
Tourism business owners and anyone working within the sector are invited to attend a free workshop which will provide helpful tools and sustainable initiatives to offer a pathway towards creating low carbon tourism across the Whitsundays.
The workshop is due to take place at The Reef Gateway Hotel on Wednesday, May 10 from 2pm until 4pm.
The event is part of a larger four-year program which began by educating 37 tourism businesses on sustainable working practices back in 2022.
Since then, the Healthy Heart Project has shown these businesses how to help the environment and save money at the same time.
The latest workshop is dedicated to recruiting more tourism businesses to the program and during the event, participants will hear real life accounts from other businesses who have experienced success through adopting the key principals.
EcoBiz Sustainability Auditor Fiona Sleight will be presenting alongside Lee Hawkins who will give a broader description of the role of the Health Heart Project in our local region.
“The rise of environmentally conscious travellers is rewarding tourism businesses that are making an effort to reduce their carbon footprint,” said Ms Hawkins, Climate Change Resilience Officer.
“More visitors are looking for eco-tourism options that have a low, or even non-existent environmental impact.”
During the afternoon, further topics will include consumer behaviour, climate change and pathways to create a Sustainable Destination Accreditation for the Whitsundays.
Attendees will also receive an online carbon calculator demonstration and afternoon tea will be provided.
WHAT: Tourism Workshop: Moving Towards Low Carbon Tourism
WHERE: The Reef Gateway Hotel
WHEN: Wednesday, May 10 – 2pm-4pm
COST: Free
The boys from Sex and Chocolate are back and ready to work their magic in Airlie Beach over this Mother’s Day weekend, at the Airlie Beach Hotel.
With their intimate Motown II Millennia show, the Sex and Chocolate boys are ready to give Airlie Beach a show not to be missed.
With smooth tunes and unforgettable dance moves, Sex and Chocolate draw inspiration from classic Motown, R&B, and soul, with hits from Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Spinners, Earth Wind and Fire, Prince, Bruno Mars, Outkast, and Bill Ocean, there will be something for everyone.
Featuring the vocals and appeal of Paul Thompson and his team, Mikey, Wilz, and Maihi, three award-winning sensations that dominate, the boys will perform this personal show to a crowded dance floor.
With every rendition of this up-close and personal show, the boys of Sex and Chocolate have perfected their craft, wowing audiences throughout the two-hour show, and leaving every single person entertained and entranced.
The boys have shared their excitement to be performing to the Airlie Beach crowd once again, wanting to make sure the ladies feel extra special on the day.
Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays has become a favourite for the group, returning for the umpteenth time to entertain the unforgettable Airlie crowd, their classic temptations of sex, charisma, and romance leading the show.
With over 20 years’ experience in the entertainment trade, these boys have perfectly smooth harmonies and sensual dance moves and are always ready to serenade the crowd through the two afternoon shows.
And the Airlie Beach Hotel is looking after you - any table booked at the Airlie Beach Hotel for Mother’s Day will receive a complimentary gift of Devils Corner Rosé, so be sure to make a reservation and treat your mum right this Mother’s Day.
While, yes, Sex and Chocolate are very popular with the ladies – there’s no denying that - but all are welcome to this charismatic show, where the only stripping is the boys’ smooth harmonies and powerful dance moves.
Indulge in this Mother’s Day weekend special at the Airlie Beach Hotel and experience the most romantic show of the year, with the highly sought-after boys as they travel Australia, sharing their love.
Expect to be swooned by smooth talking, engaging tunes that will ease the workday blues right out of you.
WHAT: Sex & Chocolate presents Motown II Millennia
WHEN: May 13 and 14, from 2.00pm to 5.30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
The boys are back and ready to serenade all through this Mother’s Day weekend
Airlie Beach Hotel has the perfect free shows for the weekend
Sex and Chocolate will be at the Airlie Beach Hotel, May 13 and 14, ready to bring their Motown charm
To imbue this review with the spirit of “Mafia Mamma”, I refuse to refer to the film as pastiche – instead, I dub it a “pasticcio”. Please: cue the weeping strings, the long, drawn-out horn, and “leave the gun, take the cannoli.”
Mafia Mamma is, at its purest, a fish-out-of-water comedy where the fish has been dropped into a nice Napoletana Sauce; it is unabashedly inspired by every mafia trope ever from every mafia film ever (Especially “The Godfather”). There’s a premise and a promise of goofiness in that. And being directed by the talented Catherine Hardwicke – whom audiences would vaguely know from her directorship on “Twilight” – though, ever since then, she’s flitted between television and film directing; notably in “This Is Us” and “Guillermo del Tor’s Cabinet of Curiosities” – the offer to see Mafia Mamma seems to be one audience can’t refuse.
Hardwicke again directs Toni Collette, having worked with the star in 2015’s “Miss You Already” (A brilliant performance from Collette, as ever). And here, she portrays the self-effacing American helicopter-mom Katherine, and inherits her grandfather's mafia empire in Italy – becoming the eponymous Mafia Mamma. And she carries the film with her charm, despite an often-flailing script that seems torn between mafia motifs and Hallmark travel films. Based on a short story by French novelist Amanda Sthers, Mafia Mamma has some deft flourishes to it.
So, guided by the firm's consigliere, Bianca (Monica Belluci), Collette attempts to defy everyone's expectations as the new head of the family business. A sort of female-empowerment narrative ensues – the lacking in confidence Collette tries to find her feet in Italy in an “Eat, Pray, Copulate” approach -- but the film seems remiss to commit to it wholeheartedly. Despite the detractors, Mafia Mamma cuts a goofy figure worth the watch.
Mafia Mamma (R) is playing at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre this Sunday, May 7.
Review by Declan Durrant.
Wintermoon Music Festival
Friday 5pm to Monday, 4pm
The annual Wintermoon Music Festival is back, celebrating music and dance, with workshops and circus acts in the Mount Charlton rainforest.
Mount Charlton, Queensland
Hypnotise Me presented by Andy Vening
Friday from 6.30pm
Returning by popular demand, comedy hypnotist Andy Vening is ready to surprise the audience with his new comedy show. Prepare to be shocked by his amazing hypnotic skills, where volunteers test their unconscious minds in fantastic displays.
Metropolitan Hotel, Mackay
Sarina Mud Trials May Day
Saturday 7am to Sunday 8pm
Join Sarina for the annual Sarina Mud Trials. Following the Grand Parade at 8am, the races begin, tearing through the course and making a mess. Classes include junior, standard, buggies, bombs and topgun. With a licensed bar and live music, this will be fun for the whole family.
Sarina Showgrounds
Flavourista Social Tasting
Saturday, 9am to 11am
Enjoy good food and others company with this great workshop. Starting with a nature walk, create meals together, using Flavourista blends, which are gluten and nut free, with the chance to win various prizes.
Wetland Walkabout
The Wild Sky live at the Seabreeze Hotel
Sunday, from 2pm
Mackay local band, The Wild Sky, will cruise you into the public holiday, with their blues-inspired tunes.
Seabreeze Hotel
Resin Workshop by the Creative Art Studio
Sunday, 2pm to 5pm
Relax the weekend away with this calming resin workshop. Come home with a beautiful floral resin trinket dish. Led by artist Michelle, this workshop will teach you all you need to know about resin art and give you handy tips and tricks to make your own.
The Creative Art Studio, 3 Ungerer Street, Mackay
Boogie Bounce Mackay Walking Group
Monday, from 9.30am
Hosted by the Boogie Bounce Mackay Walking Group, come along to the new walking group, starting Monday. Meet at the Botanical Gardens and join the group for a casual walk around the gardens, following by a coffee at the café.
Botanical Gardens Mackay
Novice/Beginner Yoga
Every Wednesday, 3pm to 4pm
Led by Wellness with Deb, this new novice and beginner yoga class is perfect for everyone. Strengthening and stretching muscles is the game, learning how to use and engage muscles for the best results with your fitness.
Habana, Queensland
STEAM Club – Magformer Construction
Wednesday, 3.30pm to 4.30pm
Hosted by the Mackay Regional Council Libraries, this STEAM Club will encourage creative minds, by building engineering projects with Magformer magnet shapes.
Gordon White Library
Frenchy Judgement Day
Thursday, from 7.30pm
Viral Australian comedian Frenchy is visiting Mackay on his national tour. With nothing off limits, and warnings for sitting in the front row, this show will test the audience.
Metropolitan Hotel, Mackay
July sees the return of the Whitsunday Voice Youth Literature Festival and the Literary Dinner, with headline keynote speaker, Annabel Crabb announced.
Whitsunday Voices is one of the largest literature festivals for youth in north Queensland, attracting over 5,000 students to Mackay to the annual event.
The festival allows students to meet and engage with some of Australia’s most acclaimed authors, presenters, and performers, with students coming from as far south as Rockhampton, and just north of Bowen.
2023 Australian stars include authors Isobelle Carmody, Katrina Nannestad, and Matt Stanton and performers Shake and Stir.
The Literary Dinner is a highlight of the program, celebrating the conclusion of the wider festival, with Australian personality Annabel Crabb presenting the keynote presentation.
Annabel has led the charge on various ABC Projects, including Australia Talks, The House with Annabel Crabb, and The Kitchen Cabinet, which received two Logie nominations for Most Outstanding New Talent and Most Popular New Female Talent.
The Literary Dinner includes a three-course meal, live music, and the opportunity to grab a hold of favourite high-profile presenters.
The festival spans three days, July 12 to 14, and includes author talks, writing and art workshops, a Poetry Slam! Competition and short story competition, presentations, plus book signing for all patrons.
WHAT: Whitsunday Voices Literary Dinner
WHERE: MECC Plenary Hills
WHEN: Friday, July 14
TICKETS: themeec.com.au
Annabel Crabb joins the Whitsunday Voices lineup
It was perfect weather for the first 2023 Cinema Under the Stars for the Mackay Hospital Foundation, presented by Harvey Norman Bedding Mackay, and sponsored by BHP BMA.
Over 300 people attended the showing of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 on the Mackay Botanical Gardens lawn on Friday, April 21.
From 5.30pm, families were welcomed into the Amphitheatre, with a jumping castle and merry-go-round, face painting and balloon animals available.
Attendees also had the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets to go into the draw for the chance to win a VIP marquee package.
The VIP marquees were decorated with lights, and had lanterns, an inflatable lounge with blankets and cushions, and a table perfect for food and drinks, plus vouchers for food and drink vendors that participated in the event.
Other raffle ticket prizes also included one of 25 pillow and store vouchers for Harvey Norman Bedding Mackay and food vouchers from the food vendors.
Cinema Under the Stars is one venture of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, which is driven to support Mackay families, and aid in reducing the offset costs associated with receiving essential health care services.
As a community charity, the Mackay Hospital Foundation supports patients within Mackay Base Hospital and other public hospitals in the Mackay district.
The next Mackay Hospital Foundation Cinema Under the Stars will be held on August 11, in the Mackay Botanical Gardens Amphitheatre, with a third on September 16, in Sarina.
308 people attended the first Cinema Under the Stars held by the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Photo supplied
The Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) has always been known for bringing together the best in the music industry to mentor students and entertain Mackay audiences. This May, CQCM have two exciting events lined up that are sure to be a treat for fans of great jazz, blues, and soul.
Friday Jazz @ The Con on May 12th will feature George Washingmachine, a Sydney-based vocalist, guitarist, and violinist, who will perform alongside the talented staff and students of the Conservatorium. The following week, on May 19th, Keyboard Confessions will showcase the vocal and keyboard prowess of Clayton Doley, another Sydney-based musician. The event will also feature performances by staff and students of the CQCM.
George Washingmachine has been a fixture in the Australian music scene for over four decades. He is known for his impeccable musicianship and his ability to blend various genres of music, including jazz, blues, swing, and country. He has performed with some of the biggest names in music, including James Morrison, Tommy Emmanuel, and Leo Sayer. Washingmachine's style is soulful, and his violin playing is particularly memorable.
Clayton Doley is a musician who is equally at home on the keyboard or behind a microphone. His style is a mix of blues, funk, and rock, and he is known for his soulful vocals and his impressive keyboard skills. Doley has toured with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Joe Bonamassa, Harry Manx, Jimmy Barnes, and Renee Geyer. Doley has recorded a number of albums with his groups the Organ Donors and Bayou Billabong, with the finest musicians Australia and New Orleans has to offer.
These two events are a rare opportunity to experience some of the best jazz and blues musicians in the country, performing alongside the talented students and staff of the CQCM. Tickets for both events can be purchased on the CQCM website, https://cqcm.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/sales/sales. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the musical genius of George Washingmachine and Clayton Doley, and to support the Conservatorium's talented staff and students. Mark your calendars and get your tickets now!
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