Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Friday 24th April Conversations with Art 1.30pm Held one Friday a month at Artspace Mackay, Conversations with Art invites the community to slow down and step inside the world of creativity through relaxed, guided discussion led by gallery staff. Running from 1.30pm to 3.00pm on selected dates between April and November, the free sessions explore artworks and images from gallery and museum collections in an engaging, open format. Designed for all experience levels, from curious beginners to practising artists, the program offers an inclusive space to reflect, question and connect through art. Free tickets available. Artspace Mackay Youth Fest ‘26 2.30pm Young people across Mackay are invited to celebrate Queensland Youth Week at Youth Festival ’26, a free afternoon of entertainment, creativity and connection hosted by the Mackay Youth Council at Northern Beaches Community Hub. Running from 2.30pm to 6.00pm on Friday 24 April, the event will feature free food, live music, visual arts, games, sports and a range of interactive activities designed to bring the community together. Open to ages 11 to 18, Youth Fest ’26 offers a welcoming space to relax, meet new people and try something different in a vibrant, youth-focused atmosphere. Northern Beaches Community Hub Community Jam At Friday Flow 6pm Community members are invited to kick back and enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the river at Community Jam Friday Flow at Bluewater Quay. Running for two and a half hours, the free community gathering offers something for all ages, with children able to burn off energy on a fun gymnastics airtrack while adults unwind to live music from Jamesley. Food and drinks will also be available, creating the perfect setting to catch up with friends, enjoy the waterfront atmosphere and ease into the weekend with the local community. Bluewater Quay Saturday 25th April ANZAC Services Refer to page 10 for a full list of ANZAC Day services taking place across the Mackay and Isaac regions. A wide range of dawn, morning and commemorative services will be held, offering multiple opportunities for the community to come together, pay respects and honour those who laid their life down before us. Abundance Day 9am Come Along for Abundance Day, a celebration of sharing, connection and homegrown produce hosted by the MCG Crew. The event encourages residents to bring along excess fruit, vegetables, seeds or garden harvests, from pumpkins to citrus and everything in between, to share with others in the spirit of “people care and fair share.” Held as a relaxed community gathering, the day also includes a shared morning tea, with participants welcome to bring a plate to contribute. Abundance Day celebrates gardens of all sizes and aims to revive a simple tradition of generosity, sustainability and community spirit through the gift of fresh, seasonal produce. 7 Sarah Street, Mackay Artist Book Collective 10.30am Held on the fourth Sunday of each month, the Artist Book Collective (ABC) invites creatives across the region to connect through the art of bookmaking at Artspace Mackay. Running from 10.30am to 12.30pm in the Workshop Room within the Civic Precinct on Gordon Street, the community-led group brings artists together to share skills, exchange ideas and draw inspiration from the Mackay Regional Council Artists’ Book Collection. New members are encouraged to attend and contribute to a growing local network of book artists, fostering collaboration and creative exploration in a welcoming, hands-on environment. Free tickets available 61 Gordon Street, Mackay True Street ANZAC Day Meet 4pm Gather this ANZAC Day for the True Street Car Meet, beginning from 4.00pm by the beach at Mulherin Park, East Point Avenue near the Surf Life Saving Club. The family-friendly event offers an afternoon showcase of vehicles in a relaxed coastal setting, with space for children to play, a nearby playground, and plenty of room to unwind with a chair or picnic blanket. Attendees are encouraged to settle in and enjoy the sunset atmosphere, with a BBQ also possible on the day. The gathering offers a laid-back way for the community to come together and reflect on ANZAC Day, under the spirit of remembrance and connection. Mulherin Park, East Point Avenue near the Surf Life Saving Club Tuesday 28th April BMA Kids Space 9.30am enjoy BMA Kidspace, a free monthly program for children aged 0–5 years at Artspace Mackay. Running from 9.30am to 1.30pm one Tuesday each month, the drop-in program offers hands-on art-making, live music, singing and dancing in a relaxed, co-operative learning environment. Two art sessions and a dedicated music session allow families to come and go throughout the morning. Supported by Artspace Mackay and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, the program encourages early creativity, play and connection, with no bookings required. Artspace Mackay Free safeTALK Suicide Prevention 6pm Community members are encouraged to attend a free safeTALK Suicide Prevention training session, with bookings essential via www.grapevinegroup.org.au/safeTALK. The workshop teaches participants how to identify someone at risk of suicide, start conversations with people experiencing suicidal thoughts, and connect them with appropriate support services. Delivered by qualified LivingWorks trainers, the internationally recognised program builds practical, life-saving awareness. Places are strictly limited to 30 participants, with early booking recommended. Parents may also bring teenagers aged 15 and over to take part in the training. Ocean International
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Feathers will fly for Mackay audiences when Circa’s Duck Pond arrives to the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on 6 May, reimagining Swan Lake as a contemporary circus spectacular. Directed by Yaron Lifschitz, the production is packed with Circa’s signature physicality and a bold, playful energy. Replacing classical ballet with aerials, acrobatics and tightly choreographed ensemble work, Duck Pond delivers spectacle with a wink. Cheeky visual moments - including a sequinned, flipper-wearing duck army and a burlesque Black Swan - bring humour and surprise to the stage. While the energy is high, the story remains central. Drawing on the familiar tale of swans and hapless princes, the production balances athletic performance with warmth and wit. "Grappling with a masterpiece like Swan Lake is terrifying. Everyone knows the Dance of the Cygnets and the 32 fouettés," says Circa Artistic Director Yaron Lifschitz. "Our role is to bring them into circus and into the twenty-first century. Circus is nowhere near as precise or as refined as ballet. It tends to be shaggy, possibly more exciting, but definitely less elegant. We have to dance that line with as much grace as we can muster." said Lifschitz. Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager of Major Venues, said the production offered something unique for Mackay audiences. “Ballet and circus perform exceptionally well in Mackay, and Circa’s distinctive approach makes this production even more special,” he said. “We’re proud to bring Duck Pond to Mackay and strongly encourage audiences to see Circa in action,” Bobeldyk said. Touching, funny and thoroughly entertaining, Duck Pond is ultimately a story about identity and finding your true self - offering Mackay audiences a fresh and unexpected take on a beloved classic. Duck Pond by Circa will perform one show only on 6 May. Tickets are on sale now. **BREAKOUT/HIGHLIGHT BOX FOR THE BELOW** The MECC and Circa present – Duck Pond Wednesday 6 May, 7.30pm MECC Auditorium Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
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What began in 2016 as a local initiative with a clear purpose has developed into one of Mackay’s most established and impactful community fundraising events. The Key Solutions -M&P Services Annual Charity Golf Day was founded to support those in need across the region, and over the past decade it has become a consistent platform for business, community and charity to come together in a shared effort of giving. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $350,000 for local charities, including $75,000+ in 2025 alone, with support directed to 13 local organisations in the most recent year. The growth of the event reflects a sustained and structured commitment to community investment, underpinned by strong participation from sponsors, players and supporters across the region. In 2025 there was $35,000 in prizes and giveaways on the day plus the mega raffle of a $39,000 club house. The event is a clear winner for the biggest event of its kind in North Queensland. Beneficiaries over the years have included a wide range of vital services and organisations such as Chances House, BMA-CQ Rescue, Ronald McDonald House, Community Accommodation Support Agency, Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, Kidney Support Network, Wildlife Rehabilitation Queensland, Mackay Netball Association, Project Pink, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Mackay Community Visitors Association, Trudy Crowley Foundation & Mackay Cutters Change the Game with a main focus of “Funds Stay Local”. The event wouldn’t be possible without the reoccurring support from some well-known local business who identify the benefits of supporting this well-known charitable event with companies like Key Solutions Group, QCCS, MM Electrical Mackay, Blacksmith Jacks, GB Electrical, RIMEX, SCIG, Harvey Norman and Penske all supporting the event year on year. The 10th Annual Charity Golf Day in 2025 marked a significant milestone, both in scale and impact. With more than 100 donated raffle prizes and auction items, alongside experiential packages valued at over $70,000, the event delivered another strong result for the community. A defining moment came when Mr Rod Allen from Inspec Industries won the $39,000 SCIG Clubhouse, before making the immediate decision to donate it directly to the Trudy Crowley Foundation – an act that captured the true meaning of the day. M&P Services has consistently acknowledged that the success of the event is driven by collective community contribution, with enduring support from sponsors, participants, volunteers and the Mackay Golf Club forming the foundation of its continued growth. Looking ahead, preparations are now underway for the 2026 M&P Services / Key Solutions Group Annual Charity Golf Day, scheduled for Friday 14th August 2026 at Mackay Golf Course. The event will once again bring together business and community leaders for a day centred on connection, competition and measurable local impact. With demand increasing each year and the event traditionally reaching capacity through returning supporters, organisers are encouraging expressions of interest via marketing@mpservices.net.au.
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Founded in 1986 as a modest mechanical and panel shop, M&P Services always punched above its weight. Building on a strong reputation, the family business quickly became a trusted name within the local community. Forty years on, it has grown into an enterprise with not just regional, but national impact. What began as a hands-on service operation, built on practical skill, long hours, and a commitment to getting the job done right, has evolved into a diverse enterprise spanning fleet servicing, transport/logistics and, more recently, the manufacturing of portable buildings and homes. Managing director, Max Lamb Jr, explained: “We're making some pretty big waves against national competition, and we've got a lot of unique products that we've developed ourselves which are changing the way portables are getting utilised.” Their biggest success has been in creating mobile wheeled infrastructure, sought out by clients within mining and construction. These ‘mobile crib units’, fully equipped with all modern amenities, have become an integral part of numerous projects across Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea. The units offer rapid deployment, are easy to transport and offer superior safety, productivity and are especially popular in the current climate providing significant and measurable fuel savings on mining circuits. They cater to industries such as mining, construction, civil and remote area services, providing workers with comfortable, fully functional living and workspaces even in the most challenging environments. Dedicated to staying local, M&P Services manufactures from their purpose built 15m facility in Paget, meeting or exceeding rigorous industry standards. According to Max Jr, the company’s ability to tailor these solutions to the unique demands of clients across various sectors has been key to its ongoing success. As M&P Services expands its operations, it continues to innovate in the field of transportable and modular buildings. Looking back, the company’s success began all the way back in 1986 with Max’s father (Max Snr) and his business partner Peter Brayshaw (dec). “They were just two mates that would hang out on weekends, go fishing and skiing, and have a beer together.” Max Jr said. “At M&P they were performing both mechanical and panel repairs on vehicles, trucks, and trailers. “Fast forward to 40 years, and we're still in the service industry, but the focus has changed.” Though their output has evolved, Max pointed out, the same mentality underpins the mission as it did in 1986. “In the early days of the business, Dad built a good reputation by getting the job done, whether it be loading trucks on weekends, working weekends and all hours of the day or night, as required. “His mentality to just roll your sleeves up and get through the work laid the foundation for what we do now; we just get on with the job, working to a good time frame, and working closely with clients to make sure that they're satisfied.” The strength of M&P’s family values is evidenced by the long-standing staff who have stayed loyal to the business over decades. “The longevity of my employees a makes my job much easier and contributes to easy," Max said. “A large percentage of our staff have been with us more than five and ten years, a few over fifteen and twenty.” Max Jr himself has been with the company since 1992, taking the helm and buying into the business when Mr Brayshaw retired in 1997. “Having worked at the business as an apprentice mechanic from 1992, I've been part of the stunning transformation since," he said. “I still enjoy coming to work every day after 34 years” With his father’s hardworking genes and a vision for design and growth, Max Lamb Jr has led M&P to become one of the largest portable building manufacturers in regional Queensland, but his sights remain firm on the road ahead. What’s a business value you uphold? Giving back to the community. We’re very proud of our annual golf day; we’re holding our eleventh this year. Last year, we raised $75,000 to distribute amongst 13 different local charities. mpservices.net.au
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Australian actor-turned-director Frances O’Conner, with her debut film Emily, has managed to create something interesting and thoughtful – beautiful in its own right – yet something more akin to our modern sensibilities than it is to the time of the Brontë sisters.
Cobbling together some old things, placing them into a new form, and wiggling them around a bit, O’Connor has put to screen a well-constructed debut that muddles with the factual parts of history. Although, there is not too much known about the middle Brontë – so it is a land rife for creative imagining - other than her penning of what is one of literature’s finest, wildest romantic stories: Wuthering Heights.
In Emily, O’Connor uses a great deal of artistic license to imagine the transformative, exhilarating, and uplifting journey to womanhood of who she envisages as a rebel and misfit. It is ostensibly a recreation of Wuthering Heights where its creator plays the main role. “How did you write Wuthering Heights,” Emily’s sister, Charlotte -the famed writer of Jane Eyre – asks in the film. Well, this fever-dream film proposes that she lived it.
Someone who was historically reclusive, the Emily we see here is instead transposed with a sardonic, “I-won’t-play-your-game” archetype of the tortured artist who eventually becomes one of the world's most famous, enigmatic, and provocative writers.
Certainly, this will not be the last time the Brontë sisters are “reinvented” for contemporary audiences. This writer believes it is a reductionist way of viewing a group of complex women to reflect ourselves, rather than allowing them to be who they are, to teach us things.
It is not purposefully harmful, trying to package them within the constraints of our modern life and sensibilities, yet it still is. Emily still has its merits belied by O’Connor’s message: do not conform, express your creative freedom, even in the face of ridicule.
For a rainswept period piece and a romantic fairy-tale with visual brilliance in its cinematography, Emily is worth the watch – just remember it’s hardly true.
Emily will show at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema from February 18.
Friday 10th Feb
• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Andy Mammers (7-10pm)
• Paradiso: Tasman (7-10pm)
• Grandview Hotel, Bowen: Tim Griffin (from 8pm)
• KC’s: Aaron Saxon (8pm-late)
• Hotel Metropole: Live Entertainment (8pm-late)
Saturday 11th Feb
• The Pub: Green Day/Blink 182 Tribute (2-5.30pm)
• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Andy Mammers (7-10pm)
• Paradiso: Mike Duff (7-10pm)
• KC’s: Sam McCann (8pm-late)
• Hotel Metropole: Live Entertainment (8pm-late)
Sunday 12th Feb
• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (1-4pm)
• The Pub: MTV Unplugged (2-5.30pm)
• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Lloyd Saunders (7-10pm)
• KC’s: Aaron Saxon (8pm-late)
Monday 13th Feb
• KC’s: Live music (8pm-late)
Tuesday 14th Feb
• KC’s: Live music (8pm-late)
Wednesday 15th Feb
• KC’s: Live music (8pm-late)
Thursday 16th Feb
• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (6.30-9.30pm)
• The Pub: Acoustic Sessions, Lloyd Saunders (7-10pm)
• Grandview Hotel, Bowen: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
• KC’s: Live music (8pm-late)
Wake up, ‘Sleeping Beauty’. This ain’t no ‘Science Fiction’, you can believe your eyes – a match made in ‘80s pop heaven is making its way to Airlie Beach in mid-February for a performance of epic proportions.
It’s time to get to The Pub – ‘One Way Or Another’, however you can - because nobody can miss this tribute mash-up of the Divinyls and Blondie, some of the Me-Decade’s biggest female success stories on the world stage.
The Divine Blonde tribute show brings together these two icons of the era in a set of doubleheader shows arriving express from Melbourne to the party paradise of the Whitsundays.
Broken up into two performances back-to-back on a single day, Divine Blonde brings the memories of the ‘80s flooding back – the ‘Pleasure and Pain’ from that Decade of Greed.
First up, Divine Blonde’s lead vocalist, Danni, pays tribute to the late great frontwoman of Aussie rock, Christina Amphlett – that brash, bold brunette – before taking on the role of Blondie’s captivating, punk rock frontwoman Debbie Harry (a beautiful blonde bombshell, to be sure).
As Amphlett, Danni captures the bombastic, wild-child nature of the Sydney singer at her best, taking to the stage in school uniform and fishnet stockings for the complete look, embracing the aggression of a particularly Australian brand of punk rock.
Then, embodying Harry, the Melbourne singer brings the sound of American new wave punk in the ‘70s back to life, expressing its vibrancy, angst, anger, and expression in ‘Atomic’ fashion – it’s like Harry is on stage. Blondie’s sound was the sound of a more motley decade than most – the ‘70s had no sound to pin itself down and Blondie encapsulated that most. Reggae, progressive rock, new wave, punk, post-punk. Blondie did it all.
Danni runs the repertoire of these incredible artists, singing all their greatest hits: Boys in Town, Only Lonely; Atomic, Hanging on the Telephone, Call Me, Heart of Glass, and all the rest.
‘Picture This’: One of Melbourne’s hottest acts bringing two female icons ‘In The Flesh’ together in one heart-stopping show, then backing it up the very next day on Sunday. It’s a double salute to two iconic women of song, showing off their pioneering power in the ‘80s for women in a heavily male-dominated music industry of the ‘70s and ‘80s.
Divine Blonde, the Blondie and Divinyls Show Doubleheader, arrives at the Airlie Beach Hotel on Saturday, February 18, before crashing back onto the Bar Top Stage on Sunday, February 19, to do it all again in back-to-back free shows.
Get ready to hear ‘The Disco Song’ live and loud in this tribute show at The Pub.
WHAT: DIVINE BLONDE! Blondie & Divinyls Show – Double Header!
WHEN: Saturday, 18 February, and Sunday, 19 February, from 2pm to 5.30pm.
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
Caption 1: The Airlie Beach Hotel is getting set for its Blondie and the Divinyls tribute show starring one of Melbourne’s best singers
Caption 2: Danni takes on the roles of both Christina Amphlett and Debbie Harry in this doubleheader show
Caption 3: Don’t miss all of their best songs from Boys in Town to Only Lonely, Atomic to Hanging on the Telephone, Call Me, and Heart of Glass
On Saturday night, it was another sold-out charity event hosted by the group of dedicated local volunteers who are raising money to build homes for homeless women over 55. Held at Waters Edge Resort in Airlie Beach, 100 people attended the event dressed in Bali-inspired attire.
Photo Credit: Will Finley
Friday SUN.sets
Every Friday Evening From 6pm
Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.
Wake House Australia
Lucid Wings Duo Live
Friday, 7:00pm to 10:00pm
Cap off your work week at the Seabreeze Hotel. Dance the night away with Lucid Wings performing from 7pm - 10pm.
Seabreeze Hotel
Remembering Shandee - 10 Year Commemoration
Saturday, 5:00pm to 7:30pm
Remember Shandee Blackburn while supporting Mackay Women's Services at Harrup Park on Field 2 with access via the front of the club. A community event to commemorate Shandee 10 years on. Kids face painting, balloon twisting and bubble release on sunset to remember Shandee. Huge raffles with all proceeds going to Mackay Women's Services providing support for families affected by domestic violence. Gold Coin Donation on Entry. Special visit by Nigel Dalton from crime prevention on site. Live music performance by Vama.
Harrup Park
JET Maintenance Services Sports Expo and Sign-on
Sunday, 9:00am to 1:00pm
The JET Maintenance Services Sports Expo and Sign-on is back! The action-packed event will be live at the MECC on Sunday, February 12 from 9am to 1pm.
The in-person event will include interactive stalls, active zone demonstrations, the crowd favourite mascot race and competitions and prizes.
MECC
Workshop: Exploring Public Art with Bernadette Boscacci
Sunday, 10:00am to 3:00pm
Local artists are invited to join acclaimed public art practitioner Bernadette Boscacci as she shares practical information and advice for developing and managing quality public art projects in public spaces. Public art enhances built and natural environments, engages people, supports the development of the local arts sector and provides opportunities for cultural tourism. This workshop will feature a visual presentation, open discussion and engaging activities, providing participants with an opportunity to share their ideas, explore concept designs and create maquettes for public art projects.
Artspace Mackay
Sunday Live Music – Mango Junction
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
Pioneer Toastmasters Speechcraft Program
Monday, February 13 to Monday, March 13, 6:30pm to 9:00pm
Join the Pioneer Toastmasters Speechcraft Program, where leaders are made. Learn to become a confident speaker in a friendly atmosphere. Speechcraft is an interactive short course designed for beginners. Over five sessions, you will develop your skills for public speaking and leadership abilities in a supporting and encouraging environment. Learn how to: Speak comfortably and effectively in front of people; Organise and present your ideas logically and convincingly; Confront and control your nervousness; Use body language in different ways; Select the right words to communicate ideas; Run effective meetings. Cost is $140 (includes all five sessions and course material). Places are strictly limited. Book now! Contact Stephen Oberg on 0409 232 368 or email soberg64@gmail.com.
Jubilee Community Centre
Library Lovers in the Gardens
Tuesday, 10:00am to 2:00pm
Find out how your local library enriches the lives of the community. The Mackay Regional Council Libraries Community Outreach team will be out and about, reading stories, making paper craft out of recycled books and a range of other activities for all ages and abilities. Who knows what you will discover about the library.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Valentines Cabaret at Haunt Mackay
Tuesday, 6:30pm
Join Haunt Mackay for this one night only hilarious cabaret show. Treat yourself, bring your loved one or you and all your single pals.
Haunt Mackay
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
Anh Do
Wednesday, 7:30pm
Anh Do’s bestselling book The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh and cry and was described by Russell Crowe as “the most surprising and inspiring read I have had in years.” Anh’s stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.
MECC
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
Exhibition Floor Talk – Deanna Hitti
Thursday, 5:30pm
Lebanese-Australian artist book and print maker Deanna Hitti explores identity and visual misrepresentation themes in M is for Madraseh (School). In an ambitious 156-panel installation, Hitti combines cyanotype and colour screen print to re-present exoticised visual portrayals of the East. Early nineteenth century French Orientalist imagery overlayed with text from a language text book in Arabic creates an interplay between object, figure and language. In doing so, Hitti deliberately interrogates the Western gaze, giving agency to the dualities that exist within her own cultural identity.
Artspace Mackay
Caption 1: Lucid Wings Duo
Caption 2: Remembering Shandee
Caption 3: Sports Expo and Sign-on
Caption 4: Mango Junction
Caption 5: Anh Do
Caption 6: Exhibition Floor Talk – Deanna Hitti
Get ready for a soulful and unforgettable experience at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC)! The Friends of the MECC’s Morning Melodies is proud to present the talented Mat Verevis and Alisha Todd on Friday 17th February, bringing you an electrifying performance that will leave you spellbound.
Remember Mat Verevis from his impressive audition on the 2014 season of a popular singing show, The Voice? The soulful singer stunned the judges with his rendition of "New York State of Mind," earning him a whopping 4 chair turns. The talented musician continued to captivate audiences with his powerful vocals and piano skills, performing hits such as "Rocket Man" by Elton John and "All In Love Is Fair" by Stevie Wonder.
Joining Mat on stage is the talented songstress Alisha Todd, who was recently a finalist at the 2021 Gold Coast Music Awards for Song of the Year. Together, they will take you on a musical journey, performing iconic songs from the past 50 years by artists like Al Green, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, and Etta James, among others. The setlist is sure to impress, with Mat Verevis showcasing his incredible musical skills and Alisha Todd's powerful voice.
The Friends of the MECC’s Morning Melodies is a popular season enjoyed by seniors in Mackay’s local community, but Manager of MECC and Events, Andrew Bobeldyk, says all ages are welcome. The performance includes complimentary tea, coffee, and biscuits, and lucky door prizes from Whitsunday Biscuit Factory and Walkerston Guardian Pharmacy. Get ready to experience the best of music, with four performances in 2023, each taking place on a Friday at 11am. Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience!
Other performances in the series include:
Lovely Day – Friday 17 February
Blue Bayou – Friday 24 March
A Hard Knock Life – Friday 19
May Christmas with Karen Knowles – Friday 1 December
What: Friends of the MECC’s Morning Melodies Lovely Day
When: Friday 17 February 2023, 11am
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
Following a string of sell-out tours in 2021/2022, Queen Bohemian Rhapsody is back with a brand-new show celebrating the 50th anniversary of one of the greatest rock bands of the 20th century. The show combines Queen's greatest hits and some of the most popular songs from their albums, taking fans on a nostalgic journey through the decades.
The hit movie "Bohemian Rhapsody" exposed Queen to a wider audience, making the band even more popular than ever. And now, fresh off the heels of the successful movie, comes an all-new tribute show from well-known Australian Freddie Mercury impersonator Thomas Crane.
Along with his talented band, Bohemian Rhapsody, Thomas brings the visual excitement, sound, and stage energy of a Queen concert back to life. The show will perform all the classic hits, including "We Will Rock You," "Crazy Little Thing Called Love," "We Are the Champions," "Radio Ga Ga," and, of course, "Bohemian Rhapsody."
A huge part of the Queen live experience was their stage presence, flamboyance, theatrics, and energy, and Thomas and Bohemian Rhapsody bring those traits to the stage in their visually and energetically stunning rendition of a Queen concert.
"Bohemian Rhapsody manages to take everything that made a Queen show unique and bring it back to life before your very eyes and ears," said Crane.
Don't miss your chance to relive the magic of Queen with Bohemian Rhapsody The Greatest Hits Tour.
What: 50 Years On – Queen Bohemian Rhapsody
When: Saturday 18 March – 7.30pm
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
Mackay is in for a treat as Harrup Park Country Club presents a sneak peek of their newly completed Great Barrier Reef Arena development during a special "Party in the Park" community open day on Saturday, 18th March.
"We are thrilled to invite everyone in the region to enjoy this exclusive opportunity to view our fresh Great Barrier Reef Arena development," said Harrup Park Country Club Chair Terry Doolan. "With the strong support from the State and Federal Government, we have delivered this amazing new community asset and we want everyone to share in the excitement."
Not only will the community get a glimpse of the Great Barrier Reef Arena, but they will also experience the Grand Final of the prestigious DBCT Poole Cup cricket competition, along with family entertainment, delicious food, and fireworks.
Mr Doolan continued, "Great Barrier Reef Arena will become one of Australia's leading event destination experiences, hosting brilliant sport and entertainment events, and promoting the amazing natural wonders in our backyard to the whole state and nation. What better way to kick it off than with the pinnacle event for our local cricket competition."
Local AFLW hero and Great Barrier Reef Arena ambassador Lauren Bella will also be in attendance to join in the celebration. "After growing up playing football here and returning to play with the Gold Coast Suns, I truly feel that the Great Barrier Reef Arena is my natural home.
“I'm sure that is also how everyone in our sports-loving community feels, particularly now with this amazing new stand and facilities," said Ms Bella.
Mark your calendars for May, as the official Grand Opening of the Great Barrier Reef Arena is planned to coincide with the Legends on the Lawn concert featuring Paul Kelly, Bernard Fanning, Missy Higgins, Mark Seymour, Ian Moss, Vika and Linda, and Troy Cassar-Daley.
The Party in the Park event is on Saturday 18 March, entry is a gold coin donation and will run from 1pm to 9pm.
Image: Local AFLW hero and Great Barrier Reef Arena ambassador Lauren Bella will be at Party In The Park to join in the celebration. Photo credit: Gold Coast Suns
In keeping with tradition, the Collinsville community gathered together for their Australia Day Breakfast and Awards Ceremony and, with over 200 people in attendance, the event was a lively affair fuelled by a delicious hot breakky served by the Lions Club.
Mayor Julie Hall, Member for Burdekin Dale Last, Councillors Michelle Wright, Jan Clifford and Clay Bauman were all in attendance on the day.
Award winners on the day included: Citizen of the Year Graham Smith, Young Citizen of the Year Jack Groocock, Community Event of the Year Springlands Campdraft Association, Young Sports Award Rilee Mackie, Senior Sports Award Gregory Fuller, Environmental Achievement Award Carol Cosentino and Volunteer of the Year Award Christine Pennay.
The Awards Breakfast was a free community event open to award nominees, their families and members of the general public.
This year Council voted to unite other Australia Day regional events but Collinsville was permitted to continue with a standalone celebration.
Collinsville Community Centre Association coordinator and MC for the day, Shayne Crump, said that they were thrilled to host another successful event and glad that it was able to remain in Collinsville.
“It’s very important for our community because we are further away from the more populous areas,” he said.
“Recognising local people locally is very important to us.”
Following the breakfast, additional Australia Day celebrations took place across town.
The Pit Pony Tavern hosted the annual Truck Pull Competition, the Workers Club organised toad and crab races, and the children enjoyed bouncy castles and face painting.
Images:
1: L-R Cr Clay Bauman, Cr Michelle Wright, Member for Burdekin Dale Last and Mayor Julie Hall enjoying the Australia Day Breakfast in Collinsville
2: Mayor Julie Hall cuts the cake with Citizen of the Year Graham Smith
3: Cr Michelle Wright, Collinsville Community Centre Association (CCA) coordinator and MC for the day, Shayne Crump and President of the CCA Committee Diane Watts
4: The delicious cake from the Collinsville Bakehouse was a hit with the kids. Photos supplied
Steven Spielberg has crafted his newest and most personal film, the Fabelmans, with the grace of his cumulative decades earnt in a lifetime of filmmaking.
The highest-grossing director in cinematic history can now, perhaps, claim his final mastery of the medium -- no director has ploughed more creative ground. A staggering 33 feature films are behind him in his career (and hundreds of producing credits, too), the only place left to create from was his experience; looking back across the field of years to find where his sense of self came from.
In The Fabelmans, Spielberg creates a memoir of his upbringing in the 1950s in New Jersey – close to truth yet maudlinly toned. Here, Sammy Fabelman, a thinly veiled Spielberg stand-in, finds his early, burgeoning love for cinema after watching Cecil B Demille’s The Greatest Show on Earth. His passion for filmmaking erupts and we continue to follow Sammy through his life, through family drama, and until his inevitable success.
It is a coming-of-age story through and through and allows Spielberg to show off his best asset: the playing up of childhood’s saccharin nature, its naivety and glowing perspective of the world, of new things – something he has done more deftly than any director before or since. Spielberg has mastered the so sweet it hurts your teeth, somehow it is never cloying. It is an ode to childhood, to loss of innocence, to passion and art, and the complexity of familial dynamics and love.
“Most of my movies have been a reflection of things that have happened to me,” Spielberg said. “But in the sense of The Fabelmans, it wasn’t about metaphor, it was about memory.”
Here is presented what we all fall in love with on the big screen: exceptional cinema that shows us ourselves. It stands on its own on two fronts; as an autobiographical, self-critical insight into a cultural figure, and as a piece of movie magic that is true to the human spirit.
The Fabelmans (M) is showing at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema now.
Here is a story as old as music: the travelling artist - guitar strapped to their back - arrives in a beachside town with song on their lips. And they never leave.
Airlie Beach has become a rest home for more musicians and maestros, more bards and bands than it may have any right to – it is a place polished in creativity, in which artists have scraped at the sheen, hoping to keep a piece for themselves.
It is breezy. Here is the sound of it: water lapping with low sounds at the beachside, the acoustic guitar playing alongside it, as easy as the wind. Airlie Beach connects to the soft sensibility of some artistic core.
Yet, Airlie offers another side to its cruisy village aesthetic: -- it has a raucous, party-boy heart found in places like KCs, Magnums, Boaty’s. It is manifold, like life. At one time serene and another rowdy. And it also has a community.
Ash Smith is one of Airlie Beach’s musicians - part of a long tradition - who has found a home here far from his own.
Most people in Airlie Beach are from somewhere else. Ash is no different: he is a native son of Lisburn in Northern Ireland, having arrived in Airlie Beach six years ago, bringing with him his music from across the globe.
And he is Airlie Beach to a tee, part of its musical fabric: he embraces the swelling sounds of the seaside but can rock it out with the best.
Like all the Beach’s musicians, he has a story:
“I’ve been in a few different bands in my life: one called Whanau, which means family in Maori, and a grunge band, ‘Smoking Tongue’. I’ve always been a big fan of Pearl Jam, Allice in Chains, Soundgarden, and chilled out music like Pink Floyd and Ben Howard. I started gigging around in my early-20s and ended up going to the United States, to New Zealand, and eventually here,” Ash said.
“I was just travelling and if you’re a travelling muso, what’re you going to do? You’re going to play music. And when I came to Airlie Beach to watch another band, and I was gigging around and I couldn’t say anything but yes to living here.
“I was luckily offered a sponsorship from Total Entertainment, and it was a yes, straight away – no hesitation. I still work closely with them today. They’re fantastic. At the time, I was working down in Mackay hauling cane for the visa and then coming up here to play on the weekends. It was an amazing life. I think most of the musicians that come here are the same; they end up loving the place and then finding a community.”
With a repertoire of covers and his originals, Ash has become one of Airlie’s longstanding artists in the music scene. He’s performed everywhere and says it allows him to enjoy both sides of his music – which are also both sides of Airlie.
“Playing music makes me feel good. If anything bad is s happening in your life, you can get lost in it; it clears everything up,” he said.
“On some nights, you’re feeling the slow, intimate stuff and others you’re ready to go hard. I play everywhere – it’s a nice mix of vibes from one to the next. It’s a seven-night-a-week kind of place for musicians. It’s awesome.
“The music scene in Airlie Beach is great, and the original scene is picking up. It’s a great place to write music – it’s a great place to do anything.”
Find Ash on Facebook at Ash Smith Music.
It’s game day and The Pub is packed: the fever pitch rises at every kick, every crunching tackle, every catch. And a silence descends; only a few huddled gasps and whispered encouragements -- “Go, you good thing!”
Then the roar of the crowd.
Every day and every night at the Airlie Beach Hotel’s Sports Bar, the big screen is filled with football, with fights, with bat and ball sports. And its atmosphere is always unmatched, it’s like being in the stadium.
And what’s on the menu? The full sporting scope.
The picks of the bunch from the early parts of this year have been the Australian Open (Djokovic’s win producing a groan from the Australian crowd), the A-League and Premier League, ODI Cricket and T20, and the NBA, NBL, and UFC.
Airlie Beach Hotel Sports Bar manager, Mathew Rowley, said it’s been a sporting start to the year – and they’re looking forward to more variety courtesy of their patrons.
“Any sport you can think of, we’ll put it on,” Rowley said.
“We don’t care if it’s hopscotch! If we can find a channel, it’s up on the big screen, ready to go. The atmosphere in here is incredible when there’s sport going.”
Rowley said the biggest event so far is the upcoming 2023 Super Bowl on Monday, February 13, one of the world’s largest sporting events which he said is ready to take over Airlie Beach’s largest sports screen – a nine by two metre mammoth that covers the length of an entire wall.
It’s certainly going to be a game to remember for football fans, too, with The Philadelphia Eagles taking on the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl LVII – the second time in six seasons for the Philadelphia team.
They come into the game as slight favourites – and it’s easy to see why, any American Football Fan will have witnessed the dominating NFC title game where the Philly side ran riot against the 49ers.
At The Pub, the day will kick off early at 9am with the Sports Bar operating in the morning hours thanks to a special license, so there’s plenty of time to grab a few drinks before the 9.30am start.
And you won’t want to miss this: Rowley will be hosting and dishing out Free Hot Chicken Wings all morning – his shout!
There’s no better atmosphere in town to experience one of the world’s biggest sporting events and the feel of prime-time football.
Grab yourself a freshly poured beer Stein of your choice and settle in for the Super Bowl – and plenty of other sports coming up this year.
Images:
Airlie Beach Hotel’s Sports Bar manager Mathew Rowley said the preparations for the Super Bowl were well underway at local’s favourite local
The matchup is bringing together the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs for Super Bowl LVII
One of the biggest sporting matches of the year is just a taste of what’s on offer at the Airlie Beach Hotel
Hundreds of children enjoyed an Australia Day slime-filled fun fest at the Whitsunday Sportspark last week thanks to the first annual event run by Proserpine Youth Space.
Photo credit: Rachael Smith and Sophie McManus
It has been more than 10 years since the iconic Misogyny speech by the 27th Prime Minister of Australia. And, as was predicted by those attending parliament that day, history was made.
Julia Gillard’s justifiable anger at the shocking misogyny she had experienced during her leadership exploded into a speech which has survived the test of time. Since then, the speech has inspired thousands of renditions through social media platforms, with some TikTok videos reaching more than 100,000 views.
The Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) has proudly partnered with international songwriter Karen Jacobsen for a new stage production, Misogyny Opus.
Misogyny Opus, composed by Ms Jacobsen, transforms Julia Gillard’s historic speech (word for word) into a ground-breaking composition that will debut at the MECC late February.
Ms Jacobsen remembers the first time she heard the iconic speech by Julia Gillard.
“I was living in New York City and noticed many friends in Australia posting the video link to this speech,” Ms Jacobsen said.
“The impassioned delivery had me take notice,” she said.
“I felt totally compelled to set it to music.”
The performance will be supported by musicians from Queensland Symphony Orchestra and will premiere at the MECC in February, the week before International Women’s Day.
Manager MECC and Events Andrew Bobeldyk said this year’s International Women’s Day theme was ‘Embrace Equity’.
“This theme and the timing is very fitting for this premiere and we couldn’t be happier to host it at the MECC,” Mr Bobeldyk said.
Ms Jacobsen is a life-long performer and is also well known to Mackay audiences. She grew up performing in the Mackay Eisteddfod before gaining international fame as the voice of Siri. Ms Jacobsen appreciated her years at school here in Mackay.
“I performed every year at the Mackay Eisteddfod in many sections at the Theatre Royal, and the phenomenal school musicals at North Mackay Primary and North Mackay High School,” she said.
“Some incredible teachers have guided me along the way, including Mrs Kathryn George, Mrs Tziolis and Mrs Pam Jensen.”
Audience members are advised there are two performance times available.
What: Misogyny Opus – Not Now, Not Ever
When: Friday 24 February 2023, 11am (student performance) 7.30pm (official premiere)
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
Image: Karen Jacobsen speaking of Misogyny Opus during a recent networking event hosted at the MECC
Friday SUN.sets
Every Friday Evening From 6pm
Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.
Wake House Australia
Big Pups at Seabreeze Hotel
Friday, 7:00pm
Join Big Pups on his Deep South Tour as he travels through QLD, NSW, VIC, and TAS playing foot-stomping country blues music. Hail, rain or sunshine Big Pups is coming.
Seabreeze Hotel
Film Night: February Fundraiser Screening: BLUE BAYOU
Friday, 7:30pm
From award-winning writer/director Justin Chon, BLUE BAYOU is the moving and timely story of a uniquely American family fighting for their future. Antonio LeBlanc (Chon), a Korean adoptee raised in a small town in the Louisiana bayou, is married to the love of his life Kathy (Alicia Vikander) and stepdad to their beloved daughter Jessie. Struggling to make a better life for his family, he must confront the ghosts of his past when he discovers that he could be deported from the only country he has ever called home.
Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music
safeTALK suicide prevention training – Mackay
Saturday, 9:30am to 12:30am
Learn how to identify someone at risk of suicide, talk to those experiencing suicidal thoughts and help guide them to resources. safeTALK is presented by qualified LivingWorks trainers. LivingWorks is considered a world leader in suicide prevention training. Bookings are essential. To make your booking go to http://www.grapevinegroup.org.au/bookings/ and book online.
Dudley Denny City Library
Six Ducks & a Yarn Community Family Fun Day
Saturday, 1:00pm
Six Ducks & a Yarn Community Cricket Day has been organised for the community of Nebo, Valkyrie, Coppabella, Glenden and Clarke Creek to help raise awareness for Mental Health in the region while enjoying a family day out and some cricket. Join in for a day of fun, entertainment, and cricket. The day will feature Super 8 style cricket matches, live music by Bek Andrews and Mango Junction, and a special appearance by cricket legend Michael Kasprowicz. There will also be prizes for the best dressed team and best team name, plus free kids entertainment including dodgem cars and water slide.
Nebo Showgrounds
Kiwi Pub Choir - Waitangi Celebrations Mackay
Saturday, 5:30pm
Join in the festivities with the local community to celebrate Waitangi Weekend! Sing along with some of the most iconic Kiwi hits ever!
Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club
Brittany Elise Album Launch
Saturday, 6:45pm
Brittany Elise is quickly making her mark in the country-pop scene with her electric performances, powerhouse vocals and thirst for creativity embedded in her catchy new releases. Don't miss Brittany and her band at her hometown show on their Feel the Fire Tour.
Magpies Sporting Club Mackay
Summertime and All That…
Saturday, 7:30pm and Sunday, 2:00pm
Tutti Vocal Ensemble presents “Summertime and All That…” a collection of well-loved songs in Tutti style. The ensemble will take you on a journey with a few surprises along the way!
Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music
Regional Insurance Brokers Charity Boot Camp
Sunday, 7:00am to 8:00am
Muscle Garden presents the Regional Insurance Brokers Boot Camp for Charity! The annual charity boot camp is back again this year to help raise funds for the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Lots of prizes to win on the day and plenty of fun to be had, so grab the family and friends and come on down for a morning fitness for a very worthy cause! Book via Eventbrite.
Harrup Park
Seaforth Mega Markets
Sunday, 8:00am to 12:00pm
Trading commences at 8:30am including food vendors, juice, home-made sweets, coffee, fruit and veg, homemade jams/relish, candles, jewellery, bric-a-brac and heaps more. Across from the markets is also Just Beachy and Scrapbooking.
Seaforth Beach
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
Social Barefoot Bowls
Every Sunday in February, 3:00pm
Lots of fun in a casual atmosphere. $5 green fees. Phone 4957 3571 for further information and to register.
Mackay Bowling Club
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
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
Image 1: Big Pups
Image 2: BLUE BAYOU
Image 3: Michael Kasprowicz at Six Ducks & a Yarn
Image 4: Brittany Elise
Image 5: Regional Insurance Brokers Charity Boot Camp
Image 6: Seaforth Mega Markets
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