Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Having grown up in Germany and Switzerland, Lukas developed an early appreciation for the importance of finding the right place to call home. Having experienced relocation firsthand, he understands both the excitement and challenges that come with moving. Fluent in English and German, Lukas enjoys working with a wide range of clients and prides himself on being able to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. For the past 13 years, Lukas has proudly called the Whitsundays home. Over that time, he has developed a deep understanding of the region, its lifestyle, and its property market. His strong local knowledge allows him to guide buyers and sellers with confidence while helping them make informed decisions. Before entering the real estate industry, Lukas earned a degree in Marine Engineering and built a successful career in the maritime sector. That experience shaped the professional approach he brings to his work today, instilling a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a practical problem-solving mindset that benefits his clients throughout their property journey. Lukas joined the TAYLORS team in 2020 as a Sales Assistant, working closely with Brad Sobott and gaining valuable industry knowledge and market insight. In 2025, he stepped into his role as a standalone agent, bringing his experience, dedication, and enthusiasm to every transaction. Passionate about helping people achieve their property goals, Lukas is committed to delivering a smooth, transparent, and rewarding experience for both buyers and sellers in the Whitsundays community.
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This poem from my Grandpa Bob is entitled ‘Birth’. Thanks to my parents for supplying it. I’d also like to dedicate this corner to my Mum, who lost her father and brother in a very short span of time. This week’s corner is for her. BIRTH this is my hand this is my eye wave the one with the other’s cry noise is anger flood is kindness joy is vision fear is blindness wet is short dry is long night a silence day a song good is a smile bad is a frown the first lift up the second put down knowing is start not knowing is stop interesting is pick up boring is drop looking is memory hiding is forgetting wrong is stopping right is letting that is wind this is rain there is light here is pain that is laughter this a sigh how much to know before I die
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Rising star Katie Jayne is set to take to the stage at Airlie Beach Hotel for two free shows, guaranteed to entertain. The eclectic performer boasts an impressive resume, having given standout performances at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Deni Ute Muster, PBR Australia and major festival rodeo stages across the country. Katie began her music career at the age of 25 when she moved to London, forming her first band Southern Junction who went on to play at the Isle of Wight Festival and London O2 Arena. After returning to Australia, Katie found her voice as a solo artist and hasn’t looked back since. “I’m at a point now where I know who I am and what I have to say and I’m ready to just go out there and play as many shows as I can around Australia”, said Katie. With her unique blend of modern country fire with traditional soul, Katie Jayne is fast becoming one of the most exciting new voices in modern Australian country music. With over 400,000 Spotify streams on her latest single, KIX Country Top 20 chart success and high rotation on CMC, Katie has cemented herself as a rising star. “It’s so great to be able to put on a country show in Airlie Beach. Australian artists are often overlooked in country music so it’s wonderful to have this opportunity. I’m very excited to bring my music up there.” Katie encourages everyone to come for an afternoon of high energy and no-nonsense country storytelling. “Come along, even if you’re not a country fan. We don’t take ourselves too seriously. We just like to have fun and play.” WHAT: Katie Jayne, two Free Shows WHEN: Saturday 21st March, Sunday 22nd March, 2pm – 5.30pm WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel The Airlie Beach Hotel will also feature an additional special treat with the Mackay Line Dancers. This fun event will give everyone a chance to get up and have fun in between band sets, with inclusive dance party’s for everyone to get involved WHAT: Mackay Line Dancers, Free Lessons WHEN: Saturday 21st March, Sunday 22nd March, 11am-12pm, 2.50pm-3.20pm, 4.10-4.40pm WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel Captions Rising Australian country artist Katie Jayne will perform two free shows at the Airlie Beach Hotel later this month. Photo supplied
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When the lights rise and the music begins at this year’s Dancing With Heart, one familiar local face will be stepping onto the stage with courage, glamour and a little theatrical flair. By day, Janine works as Sales Manager with Seven Network, helping local businesses connect with audiences across the region through television advertising. Many residents also recognise her from the weekly “What’s On This Weekend” segment on 7 Local News, where her vibrant personality shines as she highlights the events bringing the community together. While her confident and bubbly nature is well known, Janine admits the journey to the dance floor has pushed her well outside her comfort zone. “Most people see the confident bubbly side of me, but what they don’t see is how much I push through nerves and self-doubt behind the scenes.” Her routine promises plenty of personality and theatrical flair. “Oh, we are bringing drama! My routine is theatrical and glamorous! Think sass, storytelling, big expressions,” she says. “And yes… I’ll be gracefully (hopefully!) making my way down the stairs. If I don’t? Well, at least it’ll be memorable and I promise I’ll fall with flair.” What have you found the most difficult? Remembering the choreography while my brain is busy going, “Don’t mess up, don’t mess up!”… I truly want to do it justice. What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation? That the funds raised stay right here in our community, directly supporting local hospital services, patients and families. You never know when you or someone you love might need that care, which makes the Foundation’s work so meaningful. It’s also incredibly inspiring to stand alongside the other contestants as we’re all stepping outside our comfort zones and working together to raise as much as we can for such an important cause.
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The Mackay region is home to the largest population of South Sea Islander people outside of the Pacific, their story seldom told until now.
‘Black Snow’, streaming on Stan, is a work of fiction created and written by Lucas Taylor and produced by Goalpost Television set in the fictional town Ashford but filmed in the sugarcane fields of Proserpine, producers saw an opportunity to tell the true story of the region’s South Sea Islander people.
Mackay resident Marion Fatnowna Healy has worked for over 30 years to share the history of the South Sea Islander people of the region, with her latest assignment being Cultural and Historical Consultant on the show.
The series follows a cold case investigation of the 1994 murder of seventeen-year-old Jasmine Baker, a crime that shocked the town and devastated Jasmine’s Australian South Sea Islander community.
“Because Lucas had that idea that he would feature this cold case in the cane fields, the opportunity then came for the story to be aligned with the Australian South Sea Islander community,” said Ms Fatnowna Healy.
“We got to tell a bit of our history and story through that via our families and you see it roll out.”
The first boatload of South Sea Islander people was brought into Mackay in 1867, seven years after John Mackay first discovered the region.
Over 62,000 South Sea Islander people were shipped to Australia between 1863 and 1904, mostly to Queensland, where they worked mainly in the sugar industry in poor-to-terrible conditions.
After 40 years of labour, as Australia moved towards federation, the White Australia Policy was introduced.
“The big push was to remove all the South Sea Islanders out of Australia, so they deported 7,000 and 1,000 were left behind,” said Ms Fatnowna Healy.
“They were left either by their choice, they had to plead to the government … or they hid, farmers hid them, and from that 1,000 you have us today.”
Ms Fatnowna Healy has worked in education for over 30 years, supporting Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and South Sea Island children and works to educate people on the untold history of South Sea Island people.
“We are the forgotten people,” she said.
“This year, we acknowledged that we’ve been in this country 160 years and the federal government only gave us recognition in 1994 and the Queensland Government, and I worked on it … we only got recognition in the year 2000.
“I have five children and we’re not even considered people of this country, but we helped build this nation.”
It’s Ms Fatnowna Healy’s rich knowledge of and advocacy for local and cultural history that got her the role of Cultural and Historical Consultant on ‘Black Snow’.
She was initially invited into the writer’s room to read through the completed script with Mr Taylor and other writers.
Ms Fatnowna Healy went on to workshop with the entire cast and crew, almost 170 people, telling the story of the South Sea Island people of Mackay.
“The commitment from Goalpost was … to educate everybody about the Australian South Sea Island audience,” Ms Fatnowna Healy said.
“People need to understand that it wasn’t all rosy, it definitely wasn’t rosy growing up.”
Working on the series for two and a half years, Ms Fatnowna Healy said she was honoured to share her culture’s story.
“What happened there was the feeling of compassion for us and the feeling of family amongst us, that we welcomed everybody into our community,” she said.
The cast features a large South Sea Islander contingent, many descendants of those who were brought over to the region in the 1800s and acting for the first time.
“We made sure that the application form gave the kids the opportunity to identify any which way they wanted, but when they did the lesson with me … many of those South Sea young people who were sitting at the table, it was the first time they were hearing their history,” said Ms Fatnowna Healy.
Less than a month after the show’s release, Ms Fatnowna Healy has already received glowing feedback from audiences.
“There’s been an amazing response from so many people, so it builds pride in me,” she said.
“Just like those young people not knowing who they were, it’s opened them up to start asking questions and having those conversations about, ‘Who are we? How do I find my history?’
“It’ll help those young ones, it’ll help my community, wherever they are, to have pride to be able to identify, ‘Hey, I’m a proud South Sea Islander and I matter.’”
In 2023, Ms Fatnowna Healy will continue to build her business Mer Bar Wakai Consultancy offering cultural and professional development workshops, leadership programs, cultural heritage awareness workshops, cultural activities and tours.
“I want our story to be told more further and further,” she said.
“I formed a business that brings in awareness and I’m available to anybody, private or public, to sit down and talk about our local history, so white history, black history, where we’re at and how we move forward.”
Ms Fatnowna Healy also runs the Kanaka Proud Cup with her brother Joseph Fatnowna, which Mackay is hosting from November 4 to 5 this year.
Caption 1: Mackay resident Marion Fatnowna Healy worked as Cultural and Historical Consultant on Stan series ‘Black Snow’
Caption 2: Black Snow was released on New Year's Day after filming wrapped up in the Proserpine region. Photos supplied
Is improving public speaking one of your New Year’s Resolutions?
If so, take the first step to make your goal a reality by attending Mackay Toastmasters Club's Presentation Mastery Class on Tuesday, 7 February.
The class will run from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm and cover the essentials you need to plan and deliver a presentation.
“We know many people want to improve their public speaking skills and build their confidence,” Mackay Toastmasters Club member Megan Dillon said.
“However, they often struggle to believe that they can do something about it.
“If that sounds like you, come along to our class to learn some practical skills that will help you be confident in front of an audience.”
The class is suitable for anyone who would like to be able to improve their presentation skills. It will cover what goes into giving a presentation; from the first time you sit down to plan it to the moment you step out in front of your audience.
Tickets must be purchased to attend the event. The price of $24.95 includes refreshments and education materials.
Mackay Toastmasters Club is part of the worldwide network of clubs that make up the not-for-profit educational organisation: Toastmasters International.
Megan Dillon said Mackay Toastmasters Club offers people an opportunity to practise their communication and leadership skills.
“Public speaking is like any skill,” she explained.
“You can learn what to do, but you’ll only begin to see improvement when you practise.
“Toastmasters can speed up this process because we practise our skills then get almost instant feedback on how we could improve next time.
“Plus, we make our meetings fun, so our members want to keep coming back!
WHAT: Mackay Toastmasters Presentation Mastery Class
WHEN: Tuesday, February 7 from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm
WHERE: Jubilee Community Centre
COST: $24.95 including refreshments and education materials. Purchase tickets at mackay.toastmastersclubs.org
Rebel Rebel The Bowie Anthology is a captivating live concert experience recreating the iconic sound of David Bowie.
This live rock performance set in a rockumentary format explores the journey of David Bowie's life and music.
From Bowie’s 1969 release "Space Oddity" to his last Album "Blackstar". This concert will have you cheering and wanting more, as vocalist Whalen Hughes together with an outstanding live band and a visually spectacular stage show, pays tribute to one of rock’s most influential performers.
Performing all of Bowie’s classic hits including” Starman", "The Man Who Sold the World", "Space Oddity", "Changes", "Ashes To Ashes”, “Ziggy Stardust", "Golden Years", "Fame", "Fashion", "Life On Mars", "Let’s Dance", "China Girl", and many, many more. This is a concert not to be missed, book now!
Please note - This is a tribute concert
WHAT: Rebel Rebel – The Bowie Anthology
WHEN: Saturday 18 February, 7.30pm
WHERE: MECC Auditorium
TICKETS: www.themecc.com.au
Eimeo residents are being advised that the swing set in Sunset Park will be out of action in February.
From Monday, January 30, Mackay District Council will begin work replacing it with a like-for-like swing set and soft fall sand surfacing. The work is expected to take four weeks to complete, weather permitting.
Having successfully weathered 75 years as Mackay's longest-running community theatre company, Kucom Theatre is kicking off the new year with a season of four one-act plays - two of them written by local Mackay playwright Paul Vander Loos.
"Quartet", a season of one-act plays, is opening on 23 February.
The season includes:
“Murder Most Fowl” and “In Good Spirits”, by local author Paul Vander Loos, directed by Joe Clutterbuck and Brian O'Neill; “Putting Back the Fest”, by Australian playwright Michael Jeffrey, presented by Ken Sanders; and “A Lady of Letters”, from the “Talking Heads” series by Alan Bennett, presented by Tessa King.
What are they all about?
“Murder Most Fowl” centres around a neighbourhood disagreement over a prized rooster that ends with a surprising twist!
“In Good Spirits”, performed as a radio play, follows four friends on a stormy night in which they experience some supernatural events.
“Putting Back the Fest”: the one-act play festival is over. Now it’s time for the presentations - and tonight’s adjudicator is taking no prisoners!
“A Lady of Letters”: middle-aged Irene Ruddock observes the lives of those living around her, and writes letters of complaints to those whose behaviour she deems unacceptable.
Tickets are now on sale at the special price of just $20 each.
Just follow this link or scan the attached QR code to go to the bookings website: https://events.humanitix.com/one_act_plays_2023.
For more information about Kucom Theatre, visit its website www.kucom.org.au or follow on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Image: Lovely Day takes the stage as the first Morning Melodies performance of 2023
Each year, Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) presents the much-loved Morning Melodies season, featuring a stellar line-up of four captivating daytime performances programmed to bring music to Mackay's Friday mornings throughout the year.
Manager MECC & Events, Andrew Bobeldyk said “Our Friends of the MECC’s Morning Melodies season is a popular series of performances among the Mackay community, and we're excited about the line-up for 2023.”
Popular with the senior community and proudly sponsored by the Friends of the MECC, the Morning Melodies program offers four shows annually, celebrating musical hits and stars of the past, often with tributes or storytelling about the greatest musical stars of current and past generations.
“We have carefully programmed four shows that are sure to impress our music-loving audience and look forward to bringing them to Mackay in 2023,” Mr Bobeldyk added.
For the opening performance of the season, relive awe-inspiring musical moments from the past 50 years and let nostalgia flood your soul with Lovely Day. Lovely Day unites award-winning music theatre star Mat Verevis (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, The Who’s Tommy) and soulful songstress Alisha Todd (Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves, Geniie Boy) for a captivating journey down memory lane. Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of the past and relive inspiring musical moments from iconic artists such as Al Green, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Otis Redding, Bill Withers, Jill Scott, Etta James, and Roberta Flack.
Promising soulful original arrangements, magical vocals, and a walk down memory lane, The Little Red Company’s Lovely Day will uplift and inspire.
"Lucky door prizes will once again take place during each performance. This year we have Whitsunday Biscuit Factory and Guardian Pharmacy Mackay supplying prizes. We're thrilled to have these two businesses on board," Mr Bobeldyk said.
The first Morning Melodies performance is on Friday, February 17th at 11am where patrons can enjoy a soulful morning of music with the opportunity to win exciting door prizes. There will also be complimentary coffee and morning tea before the performance, courtesy of the volunteer organization Friends of the MECC.
Tickets for Morning Melodies performances are capped at an affordable $15 per person thanks to the sponsorship The Friends of the MECC.
To avoid disappointment, the MECC strongly recommends booking in advance to secure your tickets and avoid the queues on the day.
WHAT: The Friends of the MECC’s Morning Melodies 2023 Lovely Day
WHEN: Friday 17 February, 11am
WHERE: MECC Plenary Halls
TICKETS: www.themecc.com.au
Birdlife Mackay Monthly Surveys
Friday, 6:00am to 8:00am
Join Birdlife Mackay with their monthly bird count in the Botanic Gardens. If you are a keen bird watcher or just love birds and keen to find out more, come along! Meet at the Viewing Deck next to the Café, off Lagoon Street. Bring a hat, water bottle, camera and binoculars (if you have them). Bird counts are held on the last Friday of each month.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Friday SUN.sets
Every Friday Evening From 6pm
Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.
Wake House Australia
Significant Other Live at Souths
Friday, 6:30pm to 10:30pm
Join Souths on Friday for live music with Significant Other performing from 6:30pm-10:30pm. Come along for a great night.
Souths Suburban Bowls Club
Mango Junction @ Northern Beaches Bowls Club
Friday, 8:00pm
Shake off the working week with Mango Junction cranking out your favourite party tunes in the main bar 8pm.
Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club
Broken Ballerina Inc. Fundraiser
Saturday, 9:00am
Catch Broken Ballerina Inc. at Mount Pleasant Centre for their first fundraiser of 2023. They will be at the top of the escalators selling cupcakes, Pete’s caramel slice and merchandise.
Mount Pleasant Centre
Saints Hottest 100 Countdown Party
Saturday, 9:00am
Everyone is invited to Saints for a big day of fun to count down the hottest 100. Club opens from 9am till late, the bar opening from number 100. There will be a waterslide from 9am to 1pm. BBQ lunch will be served. A big cricket game planned and more games throughout the day. Rock up in your best party shirt.
North Mackay Saints AFL Grounds
Triple J's Hottest 100 Party
Saturday, 11:00am
It's the hottest party of the year! Who is your number 1 pick? Harrup Park have Triple J's Hottest 100 countdown of 2022 live and loud in the Garden Bar from 11am. Live sport on the big screen, drink specials and live music after the countdown. Free Entry.
Harrup Park
Tiffany Grace at Red Dog Brewery
Saturday, 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Catch Tiffany Grace live at Red Dog from 6:00pm to 9:00pm.
Red Dog Brewery
VaMa Live at Souths
Friday, 6:00pm to 10:00pm
VaMa will be performing live in the Sports Bar on Saturday from 6pm-10pm. Come along for a great night.
Souths Suburban Bowls Club
Mango Junction @ Moss on Wood
Saturday, 9:00pm
Party time at Moss on Wood.
Moss on Wood
Sunday Live Music – Viva Acoustics
Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.
Seabreeze Hotel
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. It's a space to honour the uniqueness of each individual, everyone is equal. They will be able to speak from their hearts about things that trouble, annoy, frustrate them. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Wave Tank Workshop
Thursday, 11:00am to 1:00pm
See a wave tank in action when environmental consultants Alluvium visit our region. The wave tank simulates the ocean’s movements to demonstrate how different combinations of coastal defences and wave and tide conditions can affect issues such as wave overtopping and flood risk. Alluvium will be hosting four community workshops in February as part of the Mackay Coast Our Future program, which will include coastal erosion and storm tide inundation displays and maps, and opportunities to discuss possible adaptation options for the region. No bookings are required.
Jubilee Community Centre
Mackay Riverside Market
Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm
Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and desert.
Bluewater Quay
A child drumming protégé and an actor with three international films under his belt before he was a teenager, Colin Petersen didn’t realise he was to become the fourth Bee Gee when he met Maurice Gibb at a gig.
Maurice explained he was captivated by Colin’s film ‘Smiley’, in which he plays the titular character, and had begged his parents to move to Australia.
In 1966, Colin joined Maurice and his brothers, becoming the first official non-Gibb band member of the Bee Gees.
Essential to the Bee Gees sound, Colin was driving the evolution of the supergroup on stage and in the studio over four albums and #1 singles Massachusetts, To Love Somebody, New York Mining Disaster, I Started A Joke and many more.
Colin joins The Best of the Bee Gees Show, bringing a massive catalogue of mega-hits and first-hand stories to the Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre on Saturday, February 4.
“I add that extra image to it - ‘Hey, I was there, this is the dialogue that was going on between the brothers, this is where we were when we recorded a particular song,’ and give the audience some sort of idea of what it felt like to be in the band in that extraordinary part of my life,” Colin said.
“It just adds that extra layer onto it and adds depth to what we’re presenting.”
The Best of the Bee Gees has brought global audiences to their feet for more than two decades with Colin joined by Evan Webster (Barry Gibb), Russell Davey (Robin Gibb) and Greg Wain (Maurice Gibb).
Colin said he was blown away the first time he heard the band and had to get involved.
“I’m closing my eyes and I’m listening to it and it’s so close,” he said.
“(Evan’s) capturing little nuances, it’s not like he’s trying to superficially cover it, he’s got the emotion of it.
“They’re really great musicians, all of them.”
The band meld together to create an immersive Bee Gees experience, recreating hits like Saturday Night Fever, Stayin’ Alive, Spicks & Specks, To Love Somebody, Massachusetts, You Should Be Dancing and more.
“Those songs, they’ll live on forever, and you can see that with the audience,” said Colin.
“They sing along, and they know all the words.”
Tickets for The Best of the Bee Gees with Colin “Smiley” Petersen are on sale now, with a special Family ticket encouraging the little ones to come along and discover the music of the Bee Gees.
WHAT: The Best of the Bee Gees with Colin “Smiley” Petersen
WHERE: The MECC
WHEN: Saturday, February 4 from 7:30pm
TICKETS: On sale now through MECC Box Office 4961 9777 and themecc.com.au
Image 1: Colin Petersen tells his stories of childhood fame, acting and drumming for the Bee Gees in The Best of the Bee Gees
Image 2: Photo credit: John Elliot
Aaron Saxon considers himself a local having been adopted by a town that he says has one of the healthiest music scenes he’s ever seen.
Aaron first visited Airlie Beach in 2002 on the way to the Whitsunday Islands to perform.
He was living in New Zealand at the time and would often return to the heart of the Whitsundays.
“That’s how I knew, when I came back to Australia, where I was going to go,” he said.
“There’s a very healthy music scene and good people up here.”
Aaron’s been based in Airlie since 2015 and has been playing music professionally since he left school.
It was a musical upbringing that first inspired him to pick up a guitar.
“My parents had a huge vinyl collection, so they would be playing rhythm and blues and some jazz and some old soul stuff, all kinds of stuff really, so I was just growing up hearing that,” Aaron said.
Music ran in Aaron’s family, the family record collection consisting of Bill Haley, Louis Prima, Fats Domino, Sam Cook and Creedence Clearwater Revival who all continue to inspire Aaron today.
“They would just be on high rotation, turned up really loud so it was all part of our journey as a family,” he said.
“They all have (music) in them and for some reason I was really drawn to it and got my first guitar in year 12 and since then I haven’t really put it down, I just felt like it was the right thing to do.”
After decades of touring and performing across the world, both solo and with bands, Airlie’s intimate yet thriving music scene drew Aaron in.
“It’s a very small street and there’s a lot of live music condensed into that one street,” he said.
“As a punter, they can walk up and down the street and see a variety of different musicians and different acts happening almost seven days a week.
“As a musician, it’s a good place to be.
“There doesn’t seem to really be another town or street like it.”
As Aaron looks to settle down in Airlie Beach, he hopes to establish his own music studio and plant his roots.
“After doing what I’ve done for years and years and years, just constantly travelling, it’s a refreshing change to just take a breath,” he said.
With regular gigs at KC's Bar & Grill, Beaches Bar & Grill and Sorrento Restaurant & Bar, he said his sets depend on the time and place.
“I enjoy playing the chill singalong stuff and then it can get high energy and get people up and dancing.
“I use a looping pedal and I use the guitar as a percussive device as well, so I can create a soundscape that sounds similar to a band.”
One to please a crowd, Aaron sets often consist of songs that people know and love with a twist but will mix in some reggae and funk-inspired originals.
“A lot of the flavour that I do is based around reggae or funk at the moment with the looper, and just groove based stuff,” he said.
Find Aaron Saxon on Instagram at @aaronsaxonmusic.
Aaron Saxon has played music professionally since he left school. Photos supplied
It’s time to get your eyeliner, ripped jeans and skater belt out, because Airlie Beach Hotel is taking you back to the ‘90s for an afternoon of pop punk and emo hits.
On Saturday, February 11, the afternoon will kick off with the Blink-182 and Green Day Experience straight out of Brisbane.
The band will then back it up with The Teenage Dirtbags, the ultimate tribute to ‘90s pop punk and emo with songs from My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy, Panic! At the Disco, Weezer, All American Rejects, Simple Plan, Good Charlotte, Frenzal Rhomb and many more.
Lead singer and guitarist Michael Geeves said the tribute shows came from the band’s love of pop punk music.
“We all grew up as little skater kids, we loved skateboarding when we were teenagers,” he said.
“Because pop punk is well aligned with the skating scene and Tony Hawk Pro Skater and that sort of thing, that was the music we listened to.
“When we were playing in bands around town down here, we would play that stuff in pubs and people were responding really well to those songs.
“Over time we started adding more of those songs to our set.”
The band then decided to start the tribute show, filling a gap in the market for tribute acts dedicated to ‘90s pop punk.
“We started getting a really good reaction,” said Michael.
“We actually have 40 and 50 year olds who bring their parents along because them and their parents used to listen to it back in the ‘90s when they were teenagers and they also bring their kids along.
“At shows, we’ve had three or four generations of people there.”
Michael fronts the band that also consists of his brother on bass and his best mate on drums, the trio playing music together since 2010.
“To do it with those two guys, we just have the best time because it’s what we love doing, we love seeing people go off to it, having a good time and enjoying themselves and it’s just as enjoyable for us,” he said.
“It’s a ball, it’s the best thing you can ever do.”
The Airlie Beach crowd can expect a set of hard hitting punk, taking them back to the days of Recovery, Doc Martins and chain wallets.
“It’s a tribute to Blink-182 and Green Day,” said Michael.
“People can expect lots of hit songs from the 90s.
“We’re also doing a special set at the end of the show to keep with the theme of pop punk and that sort of thing, we’re doing an extra show of pop punk and emo so there’ll be extra stuff like The Offspring, Fall Out Boy, My Chemical Romance, Good Charlotte, all that sort of stuff.”
The band brought the show to the Airlie Beach Hotel last year and are looking forward to returning to the north Queensland heat.
“We made a lot of good friends last time we were there so we’re looking forward to catching up with a whole bunch of people as well.”
This show is a nonstop, hit after hit party that draws crowds of all ages and pays tribute to two of the greatest legacies in modern music.
The Blink 182 and Greenday Experience draws on all eras of both bands, featuring all the greatest hits and always leaving fans asking for more.
WHAT: Blink 182 and Greenday Experience plus the Teenage Dirtbags party set
WHERE: The Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, February 11 from 2:00pm to 5:30pm
This is a free show.
From the award-winning creators of Rumour Has It, Golden and Christmas Actually comes a brand-new music experience celebrating the world’s greatest soul artists.
Lovely Day brings together award-winning music theatre star Mat Verevis and soulful songstress Alisha Todd for a soulful walk down memory lane.
Audiences will relive and sing along to awe-inspiring music moments from the past 50 years including iconic songs from Al Green, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Otis Redding, Bill Withers, Jill Scott, Etta James and Roberta Flack.
Every song on this must-hear setlist evokes a bygone era, set alight by world-class musicianship and emotional storytelling.
Mat Verevis is a singer, actor and songwriter best known for his performance as Barry Mann in Beautiful: The Carole King Musical which earned him a 2018 Helpmann Award for Best Male Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical.
He also has many credits across theatre and opera in supporting, production and backing vocal roles, including a role in the Australian premiere of Lazarus by David Bowie.
The talented performer has even made appearances on national TV as a former contestant on The Voice Australia.
Alisha is a pop and soul singer, her passion and talent spanning songwriting, production and performance.
When not performing theatre, Alisha has been gracing the Australian original music scene and festival circuit in her indie-pop project GENIIE BOY and latin-soul-groove band Volcanic Lovers.
With a wealth of experience, Alisha is sure to deliver a memorable performance with Mat by her side.
Created by Adam Brunes and Naomi Price and produced by Little Red Company, Lovely Day’s promise is in the name, guaranteeing a lovely morning of melodies and singalongs.
The show embarks on a regional tour in February supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, also making stops in Bundaberg, Carins, Ayr, Mackay, Gladstone, Maryborough and Caloundra.
Promising soulful original arrangements, magical vocals, and a musical walk down memory lane, The Little Red Company’s Lovely Day will uplift and inspire.
WHAT: The Little Red Company presents Lovely Day
WHERE: Bowen PCYC, Cnr Hay St & Queens Rd, Bowen QLD 4805
WHEN: Thursday, February 16, 11:00am to 12:10pm
TICKETS: $15 available from www.proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au
Photo credit: Dylan Evans Photography
Comedian Anh Do brings his best-selling memoir, The Happiest Refugee, to life in a ground-breaking stand-up show.
Performed at The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre for one night only in February, this moving, inspirational and unforgettable theatre experience combines humour, real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell Do’s amazing story.
Anh Do travelled to Australia in 1980 on an eight metre fishing boat with 47 other Vietnamese refugees. Sick with dehydration and one person already dead, the journey was the first of many struggles for a young Do, who overcame all manner of difficulties throughout his life to become a lawyer and, in 2008, Australia’s Comedian of the Year.
Today he is one of Australia’s most sought after stand-ups, as well as a talented writer, actor, producer and Star of the ABC1 TV’s ‘Anh’s Brush With Fame”.
The Happiest Refugee: A Memoir, charts his journey from starving refugee to one of Australia’s best-loved entertainers, and was described by Russell Crowe as “the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years,”. It has been awarded Book of the Year with sales in excess of 450,000. Do’s struggles as a young refugee – his difficulties with English, divorcing parents, being bullied and broke, are brought to life in this hilarious but moving new stage show, garnering this happy refugee standing ovations across the country.
What: Anh Do, The Happiest Refugee – Live!!
When: Wednesday, 15 February 7.30pm
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
Teeny Tiny Stevies – How to be Creative Tour
Friday, 10:30am to 11:30am
ARIA Award Winning Children's Artist Teeny Tiny Stevies are heading out on the road for their most comprehensive National Album Tour to date! Fresh off the back of their brand new album ‘How to be Creative’ the band will be touring both regional & capital cities of Australia throughout January & February. Performing a mix of fan favourites (I Ate a Rainbow, Boss of my Own Body, Sleep Through the Night, etc) and brand new material from their new album, the band will be leaving no stone un-unturned. Their show is based on the simple idea, that a great live band is compelling for any age group. They can't wait to see you there. A live gig for the whole family.
MECC
Conversations with Art
Friday, 1:00pm to 2:30pm
Conversations with Art is a free and enjoyable discussion led by Artspace staff as they look at images of traditional and contemporary artworks from Gallery and Museum Collections from around the world. It’s not an art theory lesson, it’s simply a casual conversation to talk about the art, deconstructing the works, considering themes, possible techniques used by the artist, and creating links with our own personal experiences.
Artspace Mackay
Friday SUN.sets with Ronny Croker
Every Friday Evening From 6pm
Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.
Wake House Australia
Boo Seeka
Saturday, 7:00pm
Boo Seeka is jumping in the tour van and playing a HUGE run of shows around regional Australia. Having released his second studio album, 'Between The Head & The Heart' in 2022, there is a heap of new tracks to be heard, and many new memories to be made with your favourite vino in hand.
Seabreeze Hotel
Sunday Live Music
Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.
Seabreeze Hotel
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. It's a space to honour the uniqueness of each individual, everyone is equal. They will be able to speak from their hearts about things that trouble, annoy, frustrate them. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Australia Day Eve Pool Party
Wednesday, 4:00pm
Free entry to the public from 4:00pm with Croc Drop from 4pm - 6pm, games and activities from 6pm - 7pm, movie night from 7pm, sausage sizzle and market stalls.
Pioneer Swim Centre
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Australia Day at Kinchant Waters
Thursday, 8:30am
Kinchant Waters Café and bar opens at 8:30am with Hannah Roberts performing live from 1:00pm.
Kinchant Dam
Banksia Scout Australia Day Open Day
Thursday, 10:00am to 1:00pm
Activities to include making damper, crate stacking, rope bridge, experiments, soft archery, thong throwing, sausage sizzle plus lots more. Banksia Scout Group invites families to come down to a safe environment with healthy outdoor activities. Fun activities for the kids and a great place to rest under the trees for the adults to supervise. BYO sunscreen, closed in shoes and chairs. Please remember that due to WHS, all activities require closed in shoes (crocs and sandals are not closed shoes). Bring a picnic or buy a sausage from our volunteers.
Banksia Scout Group
Australia Day at Harrup Park
Thursday, 10:00am
Food and drink specials, pie and lamington eating competition, live sport on the big screen, live music and meat tray raffles.
Harrup Park
Australia Day @ The Bowlsie
Thursday, 11:00am
The party kicks off at 11am with Mango Junction performing live on The Deck. Waterslide, jumping castle, face painting and competitions for the whole family!
Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club
Australia Day @ Hotel Mackay
Thursday, 11:00am
Join Hotel Mackay this Australia Day to celebrate what's great about Australia! Nite Johnston will perform live in the bar from 12pm to 4pm. Free Sausage Sizzle BBQ from 3pm. Prizes for Best Dressed Bazza and Shazza!
Hotel Mackay
Australia Day at the Seabreeze Hotel
Thursday, 2:00pm
Experience an Australia Day celebration like no other! On Thursday 26 January, you’ll be able to quench that thirst and bust that huge appetite with a number of Aussie bites and drinks. Then later on in the afternoon, we’ll be celebrating with live entertainment from Kapricorn from 2pm. Did we mention entry is free? To book a table ahead of time, call the friendly team on (07) 4955 1644.
Seabreeze Hotel
Mackay Riverside Market
Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm
Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and desert.
Bluewater Quay
Lovers of Aussie rock will be in for a treat next Thursday when music from two of the most legendary Australian artists will be faithfully recreated by two of the best tribute bands in the country.
First up, there’s no need to get Downhearted this Australia Day, in fact it is time to get Reckless with the Australian Crawl Tribute Show.
Lead singer Mark Tinni (AKA James Reyne) formed the band five years ago and they have since been playing at large venues across Victoria, developing a huge cult following.
Most of the band members have been performing live music for the past 20 years and they love coming together to pay their respects to one of their favourite bands.
From 12pm on Australia Day you will be able to hear them play their most famous hits like ‘Errol’, ‘The Boys Light Up’, ‘Beautiful People’, ‘Oh No Not You Again’ and of course, ‘Reckless’.
A theme of sun and surf and of course great songs, this all-live show will transport you back to a time when you could see this immensely talented band sweating it out in your local hotel.
After Australian Crawl, Dellacomma Rio and his band take to the stage for the INXS Revived tribute show which will start at 3pm.
One of Airlie Beach’s favourite acts, the boys are returning by popular demand and Dellacomma Rio says he is excited to get back to town and perform for the crowds on Australia Day.
“My passion is live music,” he said.
“I always give more energy than I have in every show – the crowd can expect high-energy, high-passion!”
The INXS Revived Show celebrates and honours both the memory of Michael Hutchence and the band by bringing back to life the halcyon days of INXS, all the way from their self-titled debut and onto Elegantly Wasted.
From ‘Never Tear Us Apart’ to ‘Suicide Blonde’, ‘Need You Tonight’ and ‘Original Sin’, you will be able to hear some of your favourite classics in this fully themed, highly visual performance.
The INXS REVIVED Show is the definitive ‘Live Baby Live’ tribute to INXS and faithfully reproduces the live spectacle INXS were famous for.
The Airlie Beach Hotel will be the heart of fun and excitement on Australia Day and what better place to celebrate our nation than the local’s favourite Pub in the middle of Airlie Beach.
Ice-cold beer will be served on-tap throughout the day, along with specialty cocktails and a huge range of other delicious drinks.
A full menu will be available all day as well, from juicy Australian burgers to sumptuous pasta dishes, tangy ribs and chicken wings, pizzas and a range of dessert items.
The Pub at Airlie Beach Hotel has a large outdoor beer garden and a bar-top stage with a huge flat screen TV animating each performance.
There is also an indoor airconditioned dining room, pokie room and a sportsbar showing all the most popular games.
See you at The Pub this Australia Day!
PLAYING AT THE PUB, AIRLIE BEACH HOTEL
WHAT: The Australian Crawl Tribute Show
WHEN: Thursday, January 26
TIME: From 12pm
WHAT: INXS Revived
WHEN: Thursday, January 26
TIME: From 3pm
There are plenty of ways to celebrate in the Whitsundays this Australia Day.
10:00am to 1:00pm
Proserpine Entertainment Centre
Join Whitsunday Regional Council on Australia Day as the community celebrates Australia Day, Our Whitsunday Way Family Fun Day, from 10:00am to 1:00pm at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. The family fun day will include a whole host of free family activities including live Aussie music, wildlife meet and greet, little red train, face painting, jumping castle, slip ‘n’ slide, craft workshops, family games and more! Plus, there will be a free sausage sizzle and lamingtons (while stocks last).
The family fun day will be followed by a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony before the inaugural Whitsunday Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremonies inside the PEC from 1pm onwards. General admission seating will be available for the awards ceremony until seating is exhausted.
7:00am
Collinsville Community Centre
Every year, Collinsville residents gather at the Community Centre on Australia Day for breakfast facilitated by local community groups. During the event Australia Day Awards are presented, recognising the tireless efforts and contributions of volunteers and community members. The morning will also include music, arts and cultural performances from local community groups.
Breakfast will start at 7:00am with the Australia Day Awards to be presented by Mayor Julie Hall at 8:00am.
Registration opens 9:30am, run starts 10:30am
Whitsunday Sportspark
Join Proserpine Youth Space on Australia Day for their slime run spectacular! Fun for all ages, there will be an obstacle course set up with a jumping castle. The event will also feature a traditional smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country, Aussie BBQ, lamingtons, slime slide, entertainment and plenty of family fun. $5 per person or $25 per family with proceeds funding support and programs for local disadvantages youth.
Proserpine Youth Space is a not-for-profit organisation that allows the youth of the region to have a safe and open space to talk freely about how they are feeling or just catch up with mates.
10:00am to 1:00pm
Whitsunday Sailing Club
Discover sailing this Australia Day at the Whitsunday Sailing Club. There are opportunities to go for a sail with an experienced sailor, explore the club facilities and find out about the programs and sailing courses available. There will be a sausage sizzle going and activities available for the whole family. Discover Sailing Days are free to attend, and all boats and safety equipment are provided by the club. All you need to bring is clothes you don’t mind getting wet, a change of clothes, sunscreen, a hat and a friend or two. Suitable for ages 7 to 80.
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