Wilbur’s great sax playing was enjoyed for years on the classic show Hey Hey It’s Saturday Photo supplied

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Wilbur Wilde is not an individual who goes unnoticed easily. A saxophonist, television presenter, broadcaster and all-round character – he brings his charm and proficiency to the Absolutely 80s Show.  

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Wilbur first got his start as a tenor saxophonist for groups Ol’55 and Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons in the 70s. He rose to fame through his role as part of the house band of the wildly popular variety television program Hey Hey It’s Saturday.  

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He has made numerous TV appearances over the span of his career including The Flying Doctors, MDA, The Paul Hogan Show, Spicks and Specks and The Russell Gilbert Show. His CV even boasts a series of movie credits such as roles for Trojan Warrior, The Coolangatta Gold and Aussie cult classic Mad Max – an experience he is very passionate about.  

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As a seasoned performer, Wilbur is no stranger to Airlie Beach.  

“I’ve been up a couple of times -- Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music. Once you’ve been there, you wish you could come back more often,” Wilbur said.  

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His frequent visits have not dampened his excitement for his next return.  

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“I’m really looking forward to visiting Airlie again. I was last here for the music festival a few years ago and it was just a fantastic vibe. I know I won’t be disappointed. I’m looking forward to a great time.”

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When asked about how he got involved in Absolutely 80s, Wilbur merely replied – “I’m a rockstar.”

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“We’ve known each other for a long time. I’ve worked with Brian and Scott in different outfits. Ally and I have done theatre together. We’re all friends so it’s lovely to get together. We’ve got a wonderful band.”

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Despite his own talents, Wilbur showed true excitement at performing the hits of others.  

“The show is full of crowd pleasers. Kids in the Kitchen, Uncanny X-Men, The Chantoozies, Mondo Rock, The Angels. We’ve got a lot of faces covered with the great lineup of versatile singers.”

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Wilbur can’t wait to bring the lively show to an even livelier venue.  

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“The venue, I hear, goes off!!”  

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With such a prolific career, one of the most interesting credits is Wilbur’s performance in the legendary Australian film Mad Max as one of the ‘young lovers’ in the first scene. Although his role was small, he spoke of the experience fondly.  

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“I was only there for one day, but it was a fantastic experience. There were a few musos on set playing small roles.”

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Head on down to Airlie Beach Hotel to witness Wilbur’s saxophone brilliance as he performs alongside a great set of talented performers.  

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Absolutely 80s features some of Australia’s most iconic music outfits Photo source: Facebook

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Behind the celebratory birthday show is an iconic project that has featured an impressive roster of Aussie rock icons.  

Over the past 20 years, Absolutely 80s has been a who’s-who of Australian rock royalty, starring the likes of: Dale Ryder (Boom Crash Opera), Mark Gable (Choirboys), Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum (legendary music journalist and TV personality), Ross Wilson (Mondo Rock), Steve Kilbey (The Church), Grace Knight (Eurogliders) and Shane Howard (Goanna) – just to name a few.  

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Each act sold hundreds of thousands of records nationally and internationally back in the 80s, and now they bring their expertise to the modern circuits.  

Absolutely 80s boasts a loyal fan base of 35,000 people across the country who show their support and prove that Australian 80s music has indeed stood the test of time. Whether it’s the austere grit of Midnight Oil, the sentimentality of INXS, the neurotic charm of Men at Work or the golden nostalgia of Cold Chisel, the period of music has maintained relevancy for its enthusiasm, authenticity and intensity.  

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Songs such as the anthemic ‘Never Tear Us Apart’ (INXS), politically engaged ‘Beds Are Burning’ (Midnight Oil), sparse ‘Great Southern Land’ (Icehouse) among many others continue to receive frequent airtime, whilst Absolutely 80s take extensive circuits around the country.

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Expect singalongs, energy, Friday night birthday vibes and big hits including ‘Everybody Wants To Work’, ‘Change In Mood’, ‘Wanna Be Up’, ‘Witch Queen’.

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WHAT: The Pub’s Birthday Featuring Absolutely 80s ‘Supergroup’, FREE SHOW

WHEN: Friday 15^th May, 5pm onwards

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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WHAT: BACK2BACK – Absolutely 80s, 2 FREE SHOWS  

WHEN: Saturday 16 May and Sunday 17 May, 2pm – 5.30pm  

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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The Tardis Nightclub back in the 80s Photos supplied

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It’s party time and you’re invited…

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On Friday 15^th May The Airlie Beach Hotel will be celebrating it’s 58^th birthday with an epic show from Absolutely 80s Super Group, a band comprised of four Australian icons from the 80s: Scott Carne (Kids in the Kitchen), Brian Mannix (Uncanny X-Men), Ally Fowler (Chantoozies) and Wilbur Wilde (Jo Jo Zep/Ol’55).  

To commemorate the hotel’s origins, the venue is going back in time to the 80s, the days in which it was famed for it’s nightclub - ‘The Tardis’. A LED light up dancefloor will be bringing back that same dance fever.  

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The Airlie Beach Hotel has been a staple of Airlie’s night life for almost 6 decades, with many of the original crowds still spotted at the bar, reminiscing fondly about the pub’s early days.  

Founding member/President of the local R.A.G Club and former Airlie Beach Hotel barman Ashley Wayne Kennedy had much to say about the early days of the iconic venue.  

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“When I worked [at ABH] in 1979 the road to Shute Harbour had only just been sealed, the fundraising for the area had only just started,” Ashley said.

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The R.A.G Club, also known as the ‘rough as guts’ crew, were a social club founded by Ashley back in the 80s.  

“By 1980 a boom had started in town with the development of Hamilton Island. Fundraising exploded. The area went from a small contingent of boats to hundred over a couple of years.”

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Syd Anderson -- an original attendee whose photo features on the wall – also looked back on the early days with a great fondness.

“It’s all a blur really. The town was a lot smaller than it is now. Everybody knew each other. It was a tight-knit community,” he said.

“Its still a great place to be.”  

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The venue’s birthday festivities will run over the entire weekend with additional performances from Absolutely 80s’ Scott Carne and Brian Mannix in their iconic BACK2BACK Show. This show will feature chart-topping hits in homage to Australia’s most iconic frontmen. It is a high-octane spectacle filled with the biggest 80s hits, performed by the stars of the time.  

Dress in your best 80s outfit for the chance to win prizes, and get ready for birthday cake, fun, games and celebration all night long. Air guitar and lip sync will be offering further prizes.  

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WHAT: The Pub’s Birthday Featuring Absolutely 80s ‘Supergroup’, FREE SHOW

WHEN: Friday 15^th May, 5pm onwards

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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Sydney Writers’ Festival Live & Local is coming to Whitsunday Regional Libraries! Streaming live to Proserpine and Bowen libraries across 21 and 22 May, the program features authors including Stephanie Alexander, Susan Choi and Trent Dalton. Enjoy inspiring talks, panels and live Q&As, with audiences able to text questions to the stage. The sessions are free to attend, with no bookings required. 

For more information, head to the Libraries section on Council’s website.

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Kellee Fogg with the Whitsunday Law team Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry will bring the local business community together this May for its monthly Chamber Business Breakfast Briefing, combining key regional updates with a celebration of Queensland Small Business Month.

The May Breakfast Briefing will be held from 7:30am to 9:00am on Thursday 21 May at Club Whitsunday, 2489 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach.

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Designed to keep local businesses informed, connected, and involved in shaping the region’s future, the May event will feature a Chamber update on key regional developments and the organisation’s strategic priorities for the year ahead, followed by an open Q&A session.

As part of Queensland Small Business Month, the event will also spotlight the outstanding achievements of the Whitsundays business community through an informal panel discussion with select winners from the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards. Guests will hear firsthand from local business leaders as they share their stories, lessons, and reflections on building successful businesses in the region.

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The event will also provide an early look at plans for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards program.

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Featured panel guests include:

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Kellee Fogg, Whitsunday Law – Winner, Business Leader of the Year

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Recognised for her leadership, mentorship, and commitment to strengthening the Whitsundays economy, Kellee Fogg has built Whitsunday Law into a cornerstone of the region’s business community. Through local employment, investment in regional suppliers, and strong community involvement, her leadership continues to deliver both economic and social impact.

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Elizabeth Hackett from Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach – Winner, Customer Service Champion

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Known for its guest-first culture, Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach was recognised for delivering exceptional customer service through empathy, innovation, and care. Their focus on service excellence, staff wellbeing, and thoughtful guest experiences has helped build a strong reputation across the region.

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Sam Vanderpoel, Rolling with Netherpoel – Winner, Trailblazing Young Entrepreneur

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At just 17 years old, Sam Vanderpoel has built a strong local reputation through Rolling with Netherpoel, providing roller and panel door repairs, servicing, and handyman support across Bowen and the Whitsundays. Sam’s entrepreneurial drive, technical skill, and commitment to quality have made him one of the region’s most exciting young business leaders.

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Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Allan Milostic said the May Breakfast Briefing is an opportunity to both celebrate local business success and strengthen connections across the region.

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“Queensland Small Business Month is a chance to recognise the people behind the businesses that keep our region moving,” Allan said.

“This event is about celebrating that success, sharing practical insights, and bringing the business community together to stay informed and connected.”

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The Chamber Business Breakfast Briefing is open to members and non-members, with registrations now open.

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Event Details
What: Chamber Business Breakfast Briefing – May
When: 7:30am–9:00am, Thursday 21 May
Where: Club Whitsunday, 2489 Shute Harbour Road, Airlie Beach

Tickets: Open to all, discounted non-member tickets available

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For registrations and more information, visit https://www.whitsundaycoastchamber.com.au/events/may-business-breakfast-briefing-airlie-beach/

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Contributed with thanks to the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry

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Back Row: Charlee Barta, Mia Clayton, Karen Allen (coordinator) Abriana Jones, Kate Evans, Tinielle Malone, Lavina Mooner, Front row: Dean Harrison

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Community Solutions recently celebrated the graduation of seven students from the Skilling Queenslanders for Work program, which provides free training to eligible people who are unemployed, underemployed, or looking to re-enter the workforce. Dean Harrison, Kate Evans, Lavina Mooner, Tinielle Malone, Charlee Barta, Abrian Jones and Mia Clayton are now undertaking work placements and, upon completion, will graduate with a Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability).

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Karen Allen, Community Solutions SQW Coordinator, congratulated the students on their commitment and hard work. She also expressed her thanks to local organisations that attended the celebration and supported the program through industry engagement and work placement opportunities, including Whitsunday Leisure and Activity Centre, Proserpine Nursing Home, Endeavour Supported Independent Living, and Endeavour Learning and Lifestyle Centre.

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Screen Queensland has chosen the sunshine state as its filming location for its latest production of Honeymoon with Harry. Photo supplied

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With its world-class scenery and idyllic island backdrop, the Whitsundays has long seemed to belong on the big screen. This April, that vision became a reality, as Screen Queensland rolled into the region for a major film production.

Screen Queensland has confirmed filming began last month on Amazon MGM Studios’ Honeymoon with Harry, starring Kevin Costner and Jake Gyllenhaal, the latest in a growing list of high-profile productions choosing Queensland as their backdrop.

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Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney said when Amazon MGM Studios began searching for the ideal resort location for Honeymoon with Harry, the Whitsundays quickly emerged as the perfect fit, highlighting the region’s reputation as a “production paradise” thanks to its skilled crews, strong infrastructure, government incentives and diverse locations.

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“By adopting a ‘film-friendly’ approach on past projects such as Ticket to Paradise, Black Snow and Love is in the Air, a region like The Whitsundays can earn a positive reputation with production companies which only encourages more projects in the future,” she said.

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The film follows a rough-around-the-edges man (Gyllenhaal) who is forced into an unexpected journey with his fiancée’s overprotective father (Costner) after their plans take a sudden turn. Set against the backdrop of an island honeymoon, the pair clash and bicker before gradually forming an unlikely bond in what is described as an emotional dramedy.

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the production marks a major win for the region, noting the Whitsundays is well-positioned to attract more projects of this scale.

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“An international production like Honeymoon with Harry choosing our region puts us in front of a global audience and shines a spotlight on everything that makes this place world class,” he said.

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“When you’re talking about productions linked to major Hollywood names like Kevin Costner and Jake Gyllenhaal, it shows the level we’re now playing at and that’s something the whole region can be proud of.”

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Whitsunday Regional Council is part of Screen Queensland’s Film Friendly Councils Network; an initiative introduced to encourage more productions in regional areas.

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“I was in Brisbane last month meeting with Screen Queensland about how we attract more productions like this because the reality is we’ve already got a strong pedigree when it comes to film and television in this region,” said Mayor Collins.

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“We’ve seen it over the years that productions come here because of our natural assets, but we haven’t fully leaned into it as an industry. That’s the opportunity in front of us now.”

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Beyond the big names and bright lights, the economic impact is expected to be significant! Over the course of production, Honeymoon with Harry is projected to inject around $51 million into Queensland’s economy, supporting 215 jobs. In the Whitsundays alone, more than 70 locals have already been employed as crew and extras during the filming period.

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“As well as the immediate expenditure on a production like Honeymoon with Harry, there are also the later tourism benefits that the region can take advantage of, with this feature film putting The Whitsundays in the spotlight with a global audience,” said Ms Feeney.

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“While promoting Ticket to Paradise, George Clooney and Julia Roberts spoke warmly about their time filming in Queensland and we recently saw Jack Black and Paul Rudd talking about the fun they had working on the Gold Coast for Anaconda—that type of publicity is invaluable. Once a film has released, local businesses can also harness the power of promoting themselves as a filming destination or leverage key filming locations in their area.”

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Mayor Collins said he is also looking forward to seeing the benefits flow through to local businesses, with accommodation providers, transport operators, caterers and the construction sector all set to share in the economic boost generated by the production.

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“There’s a real economic upside here too,” said Mayor Collins.

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“Film crews stay local, eat local, hire local and that flows straight through to our accommodation providers, cafes, tradies and tourism operators.

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“Importantly, it also creates opportunities on the ground. Local businesses can get involved through supply and services, and there’s potential for local crew and support roles as well.”

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Mayor Collins said that while there may be some minor disruptions during filming, these are short term and well managed and the long-term benefit far outweighs any temporary inconvenience.

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“The bigger picture is what this means moving forward. When you showcase the Whitsundays on screen, our coastline, our 74 tropical islands, our lifestyle, you’re not just making a film, you’re marketing the region to millions of people globally. And if we get this right, this isn’t a one-off. This can become a genuine, growing industry for the Whitsundays,” he said.

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“It’s great for the region, great for local business, and great for our future.”

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With Screen Queensland continuing to prioritise regional production, the Whitsundays may not just be stepping into the spotlight, but establishing itself as a recurring star on the global film stage.

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Mayor Ry Collins with the Collinsville community Photo source: Facebook  

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This year’s May Day celebrations brought Collinsville locals together for a vibrant and memorable day of fun.  

Mayor Ry Collins was present to show his support and enjoy the festivities.  

“It was great to be out with the community for this year’s celebrations, continuing a proud tradition that has been bringing Collinsville together for more than a century,” Mayor Collins said.  

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From the moment the float parade made its way down the main street, the atmosphere was full of pride.

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Families enjoyed a great array of activities, with children’s mixed track events and novelty races keeping the younger crowd entertained. Classic favourites like the tea-cup ride and animal farm added a sense of nostalgia, while free amusements ensured there was something for everyone to enjoy. The atmosphere was lively and inclusive, a true reflection of the values that have long defined Collinsville — hard work, resilience and togetherness.

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As the afternoon rolled into evening, great food and entertainment kept spirits high, before the day concluded with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the night sky. It was a fitting finale to a celebration that once again brought the community together in the best possible way.

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“Collinsville has always been built on hard work, resilience and strong community values – and May Day is a celebration of exactly that. It’s about recognising the workers, families, volunteers and local organisations who keep communities like this strong.” Mayor Collins said.

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The event was widely regarded as a wonderful success, highlighting not only the town’s vibrant spirit but also the importance of coming together to celebrate shared history and community pride. Days like these serve as a reminder of how vital local traditions are in strengthening connections, supporting one another and ensuring Collinsville continues to thrive for generations to come.

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“A big thank you to the Collinsville Neighbourhood Centre, volunteers, schools, sponsors and local businesses who make this event happen year after year.”

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Film & Arts Mackay will host a special charity film night on Friday 8^th May, raising funds to support Mackay primary students attending an annual camp for deaf children.

The evening will feature the French film My Brother's Band, which organisers selected following its major success at the Cannes Film Festival.

Organisers describe the film as an engaging, crowd-pleasing choice they believe will resonate with a wide-ranging audience while helping boost fundraising efforts for the students.

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The film has taken home multiple international awards including an Audience Award at the San Sebastian International Film Festival 2024, an Audience Award at the American French Film Festival 2024 and a Cannes Premiere at the Cannes Film Festival 2024.

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Description: A sensation at Cannes and a box office hit, Emmanuel Courcol’s My Brother’s Band follows two estranged siblings brought together by music. Thibaut (Benjamin Lavernhe), a renowned orchestra conductor, discovers after a health scare that he was adopted. He finds his younger brother, Jimmy (Pierre Lottin), a school cafeteria worker and trombone player in a community band. Though their lives differ, Thibaut sees Jimmy’s talent and aims to nurture it. A crowd favourite, My Brother’s Band blends humour and heart in a moving, feel-good story. Bring your family, your friends and some tissues.

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Event Details

My Brother’s Band
Film & Arts Mackay Charity Fundraiser
Rated: M
7.30pm Friday 8 May
Cook Theatre, CQUniversity Ooralea Campus, Building 1 (at the end of the road)

Tickets: https://www.trybooking.com/DKULT

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Friday 1^st May

North Queensland Games FREE Community Event  

5pm

The community is invited to celebrate the opening of the 2026 North Queensland Games at Harrup Park on Friday, May 1 from 5pm. The free, family-friendly event will feature food trucks, jumping castles, community stalls, the March of Athletes, Holy Spirit College drumming corps, the lighting of the Games torch, live entertainment, fireworks, the Channel 7 100m Sprint Cup and an NQ Games cricket match. Five-time Olympian Nat Cook will also attend.

Harrup Park, Mackay

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Saturday 2^nd May

Mens Breakfast

7.30am

The community is invited to the Iona West Men’s Breakfast at Iona West Uniting Church, 7 Brooks Street, from 7.30am on Saturday, May 2. The $5 breakfast will feature guest speaker Doug Foster from Cairns, who recently retired after many years serving as State Chaplain Coordinator for the Uniting Church and previously as a police chaplain and congregation minister. Married with three children and seven grandchildren, Doug will share stories from his life and ministry. For enquiries or to RSVP, contact Anthony and the team.
Iona West Uniting Church  

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Saturday Story Time  

9.30am

Families are invited to enjoy a fun and engaging morning at Saturday Story Time at Gordon White Library from 9.30am to 10am on May 2. Designed for children aged one to five, the free session features captivating stories, singing and interactive activities that support early language and literacy development while giving parents and little ones a chance to bond and enjoy a relaxed weekend outing together.

Gordon White Library, 54 Phillip St, Mount Pleasant

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Beach Clean Up

3pm  

Community members are invited to help protect the coastline at a beach clean-up at Blacks Beach on May 2 from 3pm–5pm. Volunteers will work together to remove litter while enjoying time in nature and connecting with others who care about ocean health. Participants are encouraged to bring a hat, water bottle, enclosed shoes and sun-smart clothing. The initiative is supported by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance.

Blacks Beach Mackay  

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Rural View and Rosewood Drive Walk  

4pm

Walkers are invited to meet at 3.50pm in the back car park of Woolworths Northern Beaches (Rosewood Drive side) for a relaxed community stroll past the high school and around the nearby lakes, where swans are often spotted. Participants can also stay for dinner afterwards at Northern Beaches Bowls Club. The casual walk is shared for information by the Women Who Walk group, with participants asked to sign an indemnity form.

Nth Beaches Woolworths back car park (meeting spot)

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Sunday 3^rd May

Community Meditation and Breath Work  

10am

Residents are invited to explore mindful breathing through BMS Pranayam classes held Sundays from 10am–11am at Mind Psyence. Led by experienced yoga teacher Prabha Srinivasan, the free community sessions introduce traditional yoga breath and energy work aimed at reducing stress, improving clarity and supporting wellbeing. Suitable for beginners, the session includes guided breathwork, meditation and a Q&A. Donations are welcome to help cover costs.

Mind Psyence, 358 Slade Point Road, Slade Point

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Writing Sunday  

11am

Writers of all levels are invited to take part in Writing Sunday at Dudley Denny City Library from 11am to 1pm on May 3. The free, volunteer-led program offers a supportive space to finish projects and connect with fellow writers. Using the Pomodoro Technique, sessions are structured into focused writing blocks with short breaks to boost creativity and productivity, encouraging participants to build momentum while refining their craft in a collaborative community setting.

Dudley Denny City Library

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Monday 4^th May

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Come & Try Gateball

1.30pm

Community members are invited to a free “Come & Try Gateball” session at Mackay Croquet Club on Monday, May 4, with arrival from 1.30pm for a 2pm start. Gateball is a fast-paced, social team sport similar to croquet, designed to be easy to learn and suitable for all ages and abilities, with short 30-minute matches. The event offers a relaxed opportunity to stay active, meet others and enjoy an afternoon outdoors. Phone:0413 500 897 for more information.

Mackay Croquet Club, 105 Juliet Street, South Mackay.

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Tuesday 5^th May

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The Mum Hub – Sparkly Brain Society  

10am

Mums are invited to connect and share experiences at a neurodivergent mums support group hosted by The Held Projecteach Tuesday at 10am at The Mum Hub Mackay. Facilitated by founder Amanda, the welcoming group is open to mums on the spectrum or those who feel they don’t fit traditional boxes, with or without a formal diagnosis. Babies and young toddlers are welcome, and tea and coffee will be provided in a relaxed, supportive environment.

10/46 Mulherin Dr, Mackay Harbour

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The Mackay VIEW Club is encouraging community members to volunteer during National Volunteer Week, supporting children’s education through The Smith Family by fundraising, mentoring and community activities. Photo source: Mackay View Club  

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Community members are being encouraged to step forward and make a difference as the Mackay VIEW Club joins the nationwide call for volunteers during National Volunteer Week (18th–24th May).

The club is inviting locals to support children’s education charity The Smith Family by giving their time and skills, helping create brighter futures for young Australians.

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VIEW — which stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women — is a leading women’s organisation with more than 13,000 members in close to 260 communities across Australia. Members are dedicated to supporting children in need through education by fundraising, raising awareness and volunteering with The Smith Family.

This year’s National Volunteer Week theme, “Your Year to Volunteer,” serves as a call to action for Australians to get involved in their communities and help create positive change.

Mackay VIEW Club President Elizabeth said the theme strongly reflects the organisation’s purpose and the work being carried out by members across the country.

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“We help The Smith Family make tremendous change by giving children the best start to life through a quality education.  

“Last year alone, the charity’s educational and mentoring programs reached over 186,499 children and young people across the country.

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“VIEW members’ generosity, compassion and commitment create life-changing opportunities for young Australians every day.  

“As we celebrate ‘Your Year to Volunteer’, we honour those already giving their time and talents and invite others to discover how volunteering can spark connection, purpose and a powerful sense of community.”

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Elizabeth said members support a range of important initiatives through their volunteering and fundraising efforts.

“We help raise funds for programs like student2student, which pairs younger children with reading buddies, we sponsor students through the Learning for Life program, so they are supported throughout their entire education, and members can volunteer at Learning Clubs, where children are given help with their homework after school.”

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Chief Executive Officer of The Smith Family, Doug Taylor, said the organisation’s work would not be possible without volunteers.

“Each year, thousands of volunteers play a vital role in our learning support and mentoring programs and provide invaluable in-house administration support, with the students and families we support being the ultimate beneficiaries.

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“We are very grateful to all VIEW members for continuing to donate their time and energy, especially during the last few years which have been disrupted by the pandemic, and now the cost-of-living crisis.”

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Members of Mackay VIEW Club support The Smith Family through a range of local activities including raffles and money boards, collecting Containers for Change, Christmas gift wrapping with ESA, market stalls, the Seniors Expo and monthly lunch meetings.

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Elizabeth said there are many ways for people in the community to become involved.

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“There are many opportunities for people to help out.

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“We are always looking for women to join us in supporting The Smith Family and we’d encourage anyone interested to get in touch and come along to our next meeting to learn more about VIEW.”

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Anyone interested in learning more about Mackay VIEW Club can contact Elizabeth on 0438 715 731, visit the VIEW website, or find the club on Facebook at VIEW Club – Mackay, Queensland.

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The Rise of Video on Demand : Netflix

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Not long ago, a Friday night meant standing under fluorescent lights, scanning video store shelves and hoping the latest release hadn’t already gone. A couple of decades on, a quiet red “N” sits in almost every lounge room, not just ready to entertain, but ready to decide what we watch next.

The rise of Netflix didn’t happen overnight, though it can feel that way. Founded in 1997 the same year as redhotblue : ) it began as a mail-order DVD service. You’d queue films online, they’d arrive in the post, and you’d send them back when you were done. No late fees, no queues, no awkward counter chats. Convenient, yes, but not yet cultural.

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The turning point came when Netflix stopped behaving like a distributor and started thinking like a platform. In 2007, it introduced streaming quietly, almost as an add-on. The catalogue was limited and the tech imperfect, but the idea was powerful: instant access, no physical media, no waiting.

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Then came the bold move many legacy players couldn’t make, it bet against its own success. As DVDs peaked, Netflix doubled down on streaming. It leaned heavily into data, tracking what people watched, paused or abandoned. While traditional broadcasters relied on ratings and guesswork, Netflix built a real-time feedback loop.

That approach reshaped content itself. When it launched originals like House of Cards, it wasn’t just commissioning a show it was engineering one. It knew audiences liked political drama, it understood the draw of Kevin Spacey, and it backed the binge model. Dropping entire seasons at once broke decades of convention and audiences loved it.

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Hits like Stranger Things and The Crown followed, cementing Netflix as more than a platform. It became a studio, a network, and a cultural force.

Timing helped. Broadband improved, smart TVs became standard, and the shift from ownership to access already underway in music and software took hold in screen content. Netflix didn’t create the shift, but it aligned with it better than anyone else.

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There have been stumbles. Prices have climbed, and competition is now fierce, with studios launching their own platforms. But the behaviour Netflix shaped has stuck. Entertainment today is expected to be on-demand, personalised and immediate not a luxury, but the baseline.

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What’s remarkable is how quietly it happened. No single moment, no grand arrival just a steady build of smarter decisions, better content and fewer barriers. Until one day, the red “N” wasn’t new at all. It was simply there, part of the furniture.

And like all things that become common place, it now faces its next challenge: staying essential in a world it helped create.

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JODY EULER, redhotblue

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Tickets are now on sale for Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic, with the world-renowned showcase set to make its Australian premiere at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) later this year.

Opening on 4 December, 2026, the exhibition will bring a century of storytelling, creativity and imagination to regional Queensland, offering visitors a rare behind-the-scenes look at some of Disney’s most beloved stories.

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The experience will feature more than 250 rare artifacts from the Walt Disney Archives, including original props, costumes and works of art, many of which have never been seen in Australia before.

Spanning 10 immersive galleries, the exhibition invites visitors to step inside the world of Disney through interactive displays and curated spaces designed to showcase the company’s legacy across generations.

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Organisers say the exhibition is one of the most celebrated of its kind globally, giving audiences the opportunity to explore the history and magic behind some of the world’s most iconic characters and films.

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With tickets expected to sell quickly, locals and visitors are encouraged to secure their preferred session early.

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Tickets are available now at disney100exhibit.com/mackay.

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Director of the festival, Richard Evans, and Treasurer and Operations Manager, Dr Julia Evans. Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life

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The Whitsunday Writer’s Festival has unveiled its full programme for Sunday 13^th September 2026.  

Running from 11am to 4.30pm, the one-day festival will bring together leading regional writers for a dynamic programme of keynote speakers, panel discussions, award presentations and community spirit.  

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Festival director Richard Evans said the 2026 programme reflects a clear vision to elevate local storytelling.  

“This year’s festival is about backing our region’s writers and stories, and the Whitsunday’s creative identity,” Mr Evans said.

“We’re building something that is proudly local. The quality of writers living in the Greater Whitsunday region is exceptional, and our programme wishes to promote their work.”

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The 2026 From the Heart keynote will be delivered by Rachel Armstrong, a multi-award-winning and internationally recognised romance author, honoured for her sustained contribution to Australian literature.

“From the Heart is about giving award-winning writers a platform to speak their bigger picture and how stories shape who we are, both individually and collectively,” Mr Evans said.

There will be two panel discussions. One will explore the writing journey – from idea to publication, and the other will look at focus on the creative spark behind storytelling. These panel discussions will feature local authors A. L. Tippett, Greg Bourke, Krissy Regan, Gary Wood, Veronica Lando and Life Publishing’s very own Rachael Smith.

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Closing the day is a free community event – Stories by the Sea – bringing together more than 20 regional authors for book sales, swaps, readings, and live music in a relaxed coastal setting.

“Stories by the Sea is where the festival really comes alive as a community experience – people connecting over books, ideas, and shared stories,” Mr Evans said.  

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Full day tickets and session tickets are now available through the festival’s website.  

“Ensuring the festival is accessible to our community has been a priority, while still delivering a high-quality experience for audiences,” Mr Evans said.  

“Whether you’re a reader, an aspiring writer, or simply curious, there’s something here for you.”

Entries have also been opened for the 2026 Whitsunday Literary Heart Awards, a national celebration of Australian literature and creative excellence. The categories are as follows:  

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Short Story Award (Open Age & Under 18 Divisions)
Writers are invited to submit unpublished creative fiction of up to 3,000 words.

• First Prize: $1,000 and Runner-up: $500 in both divisions

• Entries close: 17 July 2026

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Poetry Prize
Open to unpublished poems of up to 50 lines, judged on originality, creativity, and expression.

• First Prize: $1,000 and Runner-up: $500

• Entries close: 26 June 2026

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Entries are welcomed from writers across Australia, with winners to be announced at the Whitsundays Writers Festival on Sunday 13^th September 2026.

“These awards are a meaningful investment in Australian storytelling,” Mr Evans said.  

“They celebrate not just finished work, but the courage it takes to put your words out into the world.”

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What: Whitsundays Writers Festival 

When: 10:30am-4:30pm Sunday 13 September 2026 ‍

Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Ave, Airlie Beach

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Taylor Moss will join the Whitsunday Songwriter Festival, following recent performances at major festivals such as CMC Rocks and the CMA Festival in Nashville. Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays Songwriters Festival have announced that Sunshine Coast born songwriting icon Taylor Moss will be joining this year’s lineup as the final addition of an already star-studded cast.  

Taylor is one of the most celebrated independent country artists in Australia, whose debut album ‘Firecracker’ achieved chart topping success, receiving an ARIA nomination for Best Country Album, and a further three nominations at the 2025 Golden Guitar Awards, including Best Female Artist and Album of the Year.  To date she had landed three number one hits on the Australian Country Radio Charts -- ‘Get It Girl’, ‘Country Proud’ and ‘The Women Who Raised Me’.  

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Other artists taking part in the festival include Christine Anu, Tania Doko (Bachelor Girl), Mark Sholtez, Francesca de Valence and Karen Jacobsen.  

“I’m excited to be party of this festival because I love co-writing, I love collaborating and I feel like you can get some of the best songs by sharing your art and sharing your stories with other people,” Taylor said.  

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“So to do this collaborative experience in the Whitsundays with so many amazing writers is just going to be special.”

Taylor will be taking part in a collaborative residency, co-writing new songs with her fellow artists before performing them live at the festival’s highly anticipated Concert & Conversation on Saturday 6th June at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.  

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This session will allow aspiring songwriters and music lovers to hear directly from the artists as they share the stories, inspiration and creative process behind each song, allowing them to get up close and personal with dynamic songwriters.  

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Taylor will also take an active role in the Songwriting Summit, occurring on the same day. The summit is a practical hands-on day of songwriting, mentorship and skill development, which will allow budding songwriters to receive direct feedback from the festival’s talented lineup.  

With the full lineup now announced, Whitsunday’s creatives can get excited for a wonderful week of creativity, immersion and music education.  

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WHAT: Whitsunday Songwriter Festival ‍

WHERE: Venues across Airlie Beach ‍

WHEN: 3^rd-7^th June

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