Sugar Drop Festival is happening tomorrow at Harrup Park and is bringing local musicians to the Mackay stage for the first time.

Newly formed Brisbane band Mt. Nadir will be opening proceedings tomorrow afternoon, with drummer Conor Harris and bassist Jake Mallet both hailing from Mackay.

The pair put a callout in a Brisbane Music Scene Facebook group where they met singer Francis Rosbrook and guitarist Jaina Sacranie, forming Mt. Nadir.

“I honestly feel like we just got incredibly lucky, the first two people that had come in to jam with us from our ad clicked so well, both personally and musically,” said Conor.

“The initial feeling of us all getting together was just super organic and the songs just began to flow through us with almost every single jam we had,” added Jake.

Mt. Nadir played their first gig earlier this year and tomorrow will be their hometown debut.

“Playing for my friends and family at a festival headlined by such talented bands still feels so surreal,” said Conor.

“Our two biggest supporters Deborah Mallet (my mum) and Margeret Heggie (Conor’s mum) are yet to see us play so we can’t wait to get out there and show them and the rest of Mackay what we’ve been working on,” added Jake.

“Expect a high ride of emotions and a very warming energy made by four friends who all adore each other and love playing with each other.”

Amber Farnan will be taking the stage after Mt. Nadir, her fusion of indie, pop and folk sure to delight Mackay crowds as the sun sets over Harrup Park.

Amber grew up in Cooktown where she says the music scene was non-existent.

“I feel this pushed me further to pursue music and drove me to want to expose myself and others to the industry,” Amber said.

Inspired by Crowded House and fellow North Queensland musician Greta Stanley, Amber moved to Cairns to pursue her music dreams.

“I find it so refreshing and exciting to see music festivals like Sugar Drop popping up in regional areas, exposing and showcasing the local and national talent that Australia has to offer,” Amber said.

“I will be playing with a full band and have heaps of new songs on my setlist which I can’t wait to play live for the first time, and of course the plan is to have fun!”

Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, Beddy Rays and Tia Gostelow will also take the stage at Sugar Drop tomorrow.

The festival is now 15+ and tickets are still available.

WHAT: Sugar Drop Festival

WHEN: Saturday, June 18 from 4:00pm

WHERE: Harrup Park, Mackay

TICKETS: Oztix

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Friday 17 June

Seniors Friendship Group

Every Friday, 9:00am to 11:30am

The Senior Friendship Group meets every Friday and do a range of activities from Bingo to Morning Tea to Lunch. If you would like to join this group or have any queries, please phone (07) 4957 2626

The Neighbourhood Hub, 4 George Street, Mackay

Multicultural Women’s Club

Every Friday, 10:00am to 12:00pm

Multicultural Women’s Club is a free social group for culturally and linguistically diverse women of Mackay to connect, support each other, build confidence and learn new skills. The Club provides information sessions on a variety of topics from women’s health and skills for getting employment to art and craft workshops and social outings. The Club meets every Friday, 10am – 12pm at Mackay Women’s Centre, 418 Shakespeare Street. For more information please contact Valeriya – email: vale@tnhub.org.au or phone 07 4957 2626.

Mackay Women’s Centre, 418 Shakespeare Street, Mackay

Conversations with Art  

Friday, 1:00pm to 2:30pm

This free and enjoyable discussion is led by Artspace staff, looking at images of traditional and contemporary artworks from Gallery and Museum. It’s not an art theory lesson, it’s simply a casual conversation to talk about the art, deconstructing the works, considering themes, possible techniques used by the artist, and creating links with our own personal experiences.

Artspace Mackay

Sunset Sessions – Mat Surha

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Ross Noble - On The Go

Friday, 7:30pm

Science has proved laughter can induce a zen-like state similar to meditation, but can contemplation, reflection and self-discovery be achieved by thinking every and all the thoughts at once? Ross Noble is always on the go and will be smashing ideas together in the pursuit of fun. Come see ‘one of comedy’s greatest marvels’ (The Daily Telegraph). Book your tickets at the MECC.

MECC

Saturday 18 June

Sugardrop Festival 2022

Saturday, 4:00pm

After what seems like a lifetime, Tia Gostelow is finally coming home to play a live show and bringing along some mates. Kicking off her first annual hometown event Sugardrop Festival featuring Beddy Rays, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, Amber Farnan and Mt. Nadir.

Harrup Park

Les Divas: An All-Male Revue

Saturday, 8:00pm

Witness the greatest divas being impersonated like never before as they tour Australia. From the producers of Prada Clutch’s: All-Drag Revue comes Les Divas: An All-Male Revue. Australia’s six-foot something songstress Prada Clutch plays Cher in her new show set on the Las Vegas Strip featuring an all-star line-up of her most famous friends.

MECC

Sunday 19 June

2022 Libris Awards Exhibition: The Australian Artists’ Book Prize

Sunday

It’s the final week to catch the 2022 Libris Awards exhibition at Artspace Mackay. The Libris Awards brings together works by leading and emerging artist book makers from across Australia. The Awards are a chance to celebrate the art form and build on the gallery’s significant artist book collection through the competition’s acquisitive prizes. The exhibition is available during Artspace Mackay opening hours, Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 5pm, and weekends from 10am to 3pm.

Artspace Mackay

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

Canecutter Statue Unveiling

Sunday, 3:00pm

The new ‘Joe the Canecutter’ statue will be unveiled after being replaced. Community members are all invited to attend.

Albert Lloyd Park, Marian

Monday 20 June

Ukulele Workshop with Paul Jonson

Monday, 7:00pm to 9:30pm

A 2-hour workshop available for all levels of players. Learn a couple of new songs and techniques, learn to show off your personality with your uke with Paul Jonson from NZ.

Contact Julie on 0413316973 to confirm place.

Kucom Theatre

Tuesday 21 June

World Café

Sunday, 3:00pm

World Café is a free culture-sharing group that meets every Tuesday (between February and November) from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm. Activities include cooking, art and craft, conversational games, small projects, workshops, information sessions and local excursions. For more information please phone (07) 4957 7222

The Neighbourhood Hub, 4 George Street, Mackay

Tropical Paint & Sip with Hand Drawn Designs by Michelle

Wednesday, 6:30pm

Mackay, come celebrate with the ultimate party experience! Paint & Sip parties are fun group painting sessions that provide the opportunity to gather your friends and wine while you design, regardless of your artistic ability or skill. Your expert teacher guides you step-by-step. It's that easy! This is NOT an art workshop, so put on your drinking boots and let's have some fun! Adults only event. Book your tickets here! https://bit.ly/3MXavA7

Seabreeze Hotel

Wednesday 22 June

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

Biggest Morning Tea

Wednesday, 10:00am to 11:30am

The team at Magpies Sporting Club are holding a fantastic fundraising Morning Tea to help make a valuable difference in the lives of so many impacted by cancer. Enjoy a decadent morning tea, barista tea & coffee, juice and an inspirational guest speaker for $20 per person. Raffle tickets available now at reception or at the morning tea, drawn on the day, winners don’t need to be present. All ticket and raffle sales will go directly to the Cancer Council.

Magpies Sporting Club Mackay

Thursday 23 June

Playgroup with Maria

Thursday, 9:30am to 11:00am

Story time, movement, music, games and FUN! $3 per family. Email tomin@tnhub.org.au.

The Neighbourhood Hub, 43 Shakespeare Street, East Mackay

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Following the resounding success of its 2018 Vicar of Dibley season, Kucom Theatre is proud to present The Vicar of Dibley 2, adapted from original TV scripts by Richard Curtis.

This year’s stage adaptation is based on three popular episodes: Love and Marriage – featuring the wedding of Alice Tinker and Hugo Horton; Autumn, and the Vicar’s scandalous fling with David Horton’s younger brother; and Winter, culminating in the Dibley Nativity Play.

Kucom Theatre President Bronwyn Grannall said the cast includes an array of well-known local performers.

“Our range of local performers includes Pia Larsen, Geoff Stewart-McLean, Zachary Trounson, Chanelle Redgwell, John Irvine, Paul Vander Loos, Andrew Deguara and Richard Calligan, with Vicky Bobeldyk in a guest cameo role,” Ms Grannall said.

“Geoff Stewart-McLean, reprising the role he played in our 2018 production, once again decided to make the ultimate sacrifice and have his head shaved to play the role of Councillor David Horton, played by the follically challenged Gary Waldhorn in the TV series.

“He had his head shaved on 27 May, we were tremendously impressed by Geoff’s generous offer, and by the excellent result achieved by Tanya Russell at Gina-T Hair and Beauty.”

Season dates for the Vicar of Dibley 2: Thu 14th, Fri 15th, Sat 16th, Thu 21st, Fri 22nd, Sat 23rd July.

Tanya Russell (GinaT Hair & Beauty), Geoff Stewart-McLean and Kucom President Bronwyn Grannall

Tanya Russell from GinaT Hair & Beauty gets to work in balding Geoff Stewart-McLean for the role of David Horton in the upcoming show The Vicar of Dibley 2

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Fascinators, Frocks and Fillies

The weather couldn’t have been much better for the return of the Mackay Beach Horse Races on the weekend, one of the most anticipated events on the Mackay calendar.

Mackay Harbour Beach was packed to the brim with bright, eye-catching outfits as punters dressed to the conditions of the coastal location and casual atmosphere of regional Queensland’s cheeky answer to the Melbourne Cup.

With six races on the card, Fashions on the Sand, the Air Jockey Competition and plenty more to delight the huge crowd, the Mackay Beach Horse Races is cementing itself as the race that stops Mackay.

A Day At The Races Done Different

The sun was shining, the breeze was blowing and the shoes were filling with sand.

The Mackay Beach Horse Races thrilled a huge crowd with an action-packed day of racing and entertainment for the whole family last Saturday.

Sand flew as retired thoroughbreds, stock horses, quarter horses and mixed breeds galloped from the Mackay Surf Club starting line to the Dispensary VIP Deck finish line, passing cheering fans as they sped down the beach.

Six races were run throughout the day with Terminate, ridden by Josh Manzelmann, winning the ultimate Mick Pope Memorial Race, named in honour of the Beach Horse Races founder.

Mackay’s most fashionable stepped up for Fashions on the Sands where everything from pluggers and Hawaiian shirts to incredibly elegant suits, gowns and headwear took to the runway.

Four winners were crowned with Sheri Sampson winning Best Contemporary, Breanna Godfrey winning Best Classic, Julie-Anne Coombs winning Best Headwear and Dean Williams named the Best Man in the Sand.

The Air Jockey Competition also took centre stage, with competitors doing their best jockey impressions and battling it out for some great prizes.

A selection of DJs played bangers throughout the festival space all day, keeping the vibes high between races and inevitably packing out the dancefloor.

As the sun set, the crowd congregated at the main stage to boogie the night away.

After such a successful event from the Mackay Beach Horse Races and Mackay Isaac Tourism, it’s exciting to see what the team have in store for next year.

L-R Fashions on the Sand winners Dean Williams, Breanna Godfrey, Sheri Sampson and Julie-Anne Coombs.

Mackay Beach Horse Race Winners

Race 1: The Harvey Norman Quarter Horse 400m

1st Clover Lily ridden by Jen Kavanagh

2nd Cool Dream N Hollywood ridden by Les Croydon

3rd Damage ridden by Jarrod Robinson

Race 2: Uniform Solutions Off the Track Thoroughbreds 400m

1st Mutomba ridden by Jarrod Robinson

2nd Almah Rocket ridden by Trinity Nash

3rd Authentic Swing ridden by Shanay Weston

Race 3: The Cruise Whitsundays Off The Track Thoroughbreds 500m

1st Ambassadors Jet ridden by Jarrod Robinson

2nd Damage ridden by Trinity Nash

3rd Pirates Jessie Jane ridden by Melissa  Milton

Race 4: The Fullhammer Lady Riders Only Race 500m

1st Arnie ridden by Lisa Manzelmann

2nd Big Bubba ridden by Rachael Smith

3rd Rixon’s Funny Face ridden by Rike Buenhing

Race 5: The Wildcat Mackay All Breeds Race 450m

1st Big Bubba ridden by Rachael Smith

2nd Rixon’s Funny Face ridden by Rike Buenhing

3rd Maverick ridden by Vicki Beasy

Race 6: The Mick Hope Memorial 450m thanks to Mackay Airport

1st Terminate ridden by Josh Manzelmann

2nd Mutomba ridden by Jarrod Robinson

3rd Clover Lily ridden by Jen Kavanagh

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There’s not much better than an afternoon out at The Pub, but when you add Sex and Chocolate, it really seals the deal.

The Airlie Beach Hotel is bringing the Motown era up close and personal to Whitsunday audiences in an indulgent show by one of the hottest groups on the Queensland circuit.

Performing centre stage, Sex and Chocolate – a multi-award-winning act - will play all afternoon long with their Motown II Millennia show at everyone’s favourite local.

They bring the swing and croon era of Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra to modern audiences, pairing it with the tunes from Usher and the Black Eye Peas – all with some incredible choreographed dance moves.

The harmonies are varied, with hits from bands like the Temptations in their repertoire, and others like the Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, The Spinners, Earth Wind and Fire, Barry White, Billy Ocean, Prince, Shaggy, Bruno Mars, and many more.

They’ve been a trusted band – and brand - for more than 20 years, entertaining at more celebrity and high-profile events than you can count.

Sex and Chocolate’s resume includes a string of well-known celebrity weddings and special events, including the Indy 500, HRH Gala, the Mayoress Charity Ball for Ruth Tate, a string of Rugby league and union stars weddings - Brent Tate, Petero Civoniceva, and Daniel Herbert.

A personal favourite for the famous quartet was with the great Aussie favourite Paul Hogan, where Sex and Chocolate performed at his Crocodile Dundee after party.

They’re expert entertainers that connect with an audience like only the very best can.

Meet The Gang:

Maihi Pinker, a born New Zealander entrenched in Maori culture. He developed a keen ear for melodies and harmonies in a musically religious family, mastering the art of using his voice to suit many genres: from soul, r&b, and reggae to the sweet highs and tantalising lows.

Possessing rich vocals with Hayes Loau is our next member. A charismatic, high energy performer who brings the stage to life – and another New Zealander. He started his career at Australia’s wonderland at 15, dancing and singing in stage shows for seven seasons.

Leader of the pack is Paul ‘The Wolfman’ Thompson, a natural born entertainer with a deep soulful voice and charisma. His performances have a genuine warmth, humour and charm.

And finally Wilz Karekare, a star who possesses an incredible vocal range and vocal control that very few can match. Singing songs with feelings and meaning, and touching people’s hearts, is what he loves best.

This amazing two-hour spectacle brings the four phenomenal singers and supporting DJ Fia to The Pub on Sunday, July 2 and 3 from 2.00pm to 5.30pm both days.

You wanted a dance floor! You’ve got your dance floor!

Sex and Chocolate arrive at The Pub on July 2

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The Airlie Foreshore Outdoor Cinema is hosting two Thursday night double featurettes in both weeks of the upcoming school holidays.

Both nights of holiday films will host food trucks alongside the Foreshore’s entertainment.

A classic Hanna-Barbera character will be the first to waddle onscreen in the screening of the 2010 film Yogi Bear on June 30 starting 6.00pm.

The mixed live-action and computer-generated comedy features Dan Akroyd of Ghostbusters fame as well as Justin Timberlake in a wacky adventure to save Jellystone Park.

The Foreshore event isn’t just for little kids, though, as Yogi makes way for Jim Carrey in The Mask for the first Thursday double feature.

As a meek bank employee, Carey turns into an eccentric, maniacal, reality bending green-skinned superhero when he adorns a wooden mask created by Loki, the Norse god of mischief.

A classic performance from the 90’s star that ends the first school holiday movie night.

Next up are some more cinema landmarks, this time on July 7 from 6.00pm.

It’s a paleolithic pair of pictures at the Foreshore with first up The Land Before Time, where an orphaned dinosaur faces a string of obstacles before coming across four other dinos. Together, they learn how to survive and search for the fabled Great Valley.

To finish off the holidays is the original Jurassic Park, where entrepreneur John Hammond will open his wildlife park of cloned dinosaurs – I think we all know how that one ends.

WHAT: Yogi Bear and The Mask

WHEN: June 30 from 6.00pm

WHAT: The Land Before Time and Jurassic Park

WHEN: July 7 from 6.00pm

WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

TICKETS: Free

This school holidays the Airlie Foreshore Outdoor Cinema will host four movies

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Whitsunday rev-heads rejoice as the out-of-nowhere motorsport event Whitsunday Horsepower Heroes returns for its second iteration next month.

Last year under the title of Full Metal Health Day, the event hosted a 60-vehicle display and an appearance by Supercar Driver Cameron Waters along with his Monster Energy V8.

Now with a new name and a fresh coat of paint, Whitsunday Horsepower Day is back to create a “place where people feel safe and can enjoy their passions” while raising funds and awareness for mental health charities.

Last year the event surpassed its organisers’ wildest expectations, raising $1850 dollars for charities with a conservative estimate of 600 attendees. This year, it will return on July 2, again with V8 Supercar driver Cameron Waters in its showcase of Australia’s leading motorsport categories.

It promises to feature “genuine heroes of horsepower” – both drivers and their cars - including the Monster Energy Race Car, and vehicles from various racing categories.

Whitsunday Horsepower Heroes founder Victor Pozolli and local Steve Knox founded the previous event after learning the harrowing statistic that, in the Whitsundays, two thirds of death by suicide are men.

The event this year will again donate its funds raised back to local groups like Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, Real Mates Talk, and Kick On to combat that statistic.

The event’s fundraising raffle is offering three incredible prizes this year: A first prize Ultimate Hot Lap Experience with Cameron Waters, a second place Hayman Helicopter Experience, and a third place Hamilton Helicopter experience.

If you are in an emergency, or at immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, please contact emergency services on 000

Crisis support numbers: Lifeline: 13 11 14 ; Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 ; Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636

You matter.

WHAT: Whitsunday Horsepower Day 2022

WHEN: July 2

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club

TICKETS: Gold Coin Entry

V8 Race Car driver Cameron Waters will be back in the Whitsundays for Horsepower Day at the beginning of July

Image: R Jean Photography

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The King Of Rock and Roll has never had a feature length blockbuster portraying his life until now. He starred in his own bout of films: Flaming Star, Love Me Tender, Jailhouse Rock – but never was there a biopic focused on Elvis the man, especially one so haunting.

Australian director Baz Luhrmann has been away from the big screen for almost a decade, and his much-anticipated return to the silver screen is an impish, delirious fever dream. In Elvis, our Presley stand in (hardly) is Austin Butler – a teenage heartthrob who, with Elvis, becomes a man. He outshines fellow cast members to create something indelibly dynamic, putting seasoned actors like co-star Tom Hanks – playing Elvis’s Dutch puppet-master, Colonel Tom Parker - to shame.

Luhrmann’s Elvis is beautifully shot, coloured, and textured. But its performances elevate it; Austin “channelled and embodied” Elvis’s energy, his “heart and soul” according to his own daughter, Lisa Marie Presley.

“If he doesn’t get an Oscar for this, I will eat my own foot,” she said.

A return to form for Luhrmann, who captures the Moulin-Rouge magic of his early career to follow Elvis from young, impressionable writhing performances in Memphis gospel tents to the blinding lights of Las Vegas legendry.

There have been performances which embodied a since passed artist, a towering cultural figure - Joaquin Pheonix as Johnny Cash in Walk The Line comes to mind. There is the plaintiveness of Walk the Line in Elvis – a gloomy American Dream that is sadder than one might expect from a film about The King.

But this story about Elvis and Colonel Parker’s relationship is real, it has the endorsement of those who were there.

“It is a true story told brilliantly and creatively that only Baz, in his unique artistic way, could have delivered,” Priscilla Presley, Elvis’s ex-wife said.

Elvis is opening at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema in late July.

Austin Butler in Elvis

Photo: Warner Brothers Pcitures

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Some of Australia’s finest male physiques are about to sizzle and seduce some locals for one night only at the Whitsunday Sailing Club with their brand-new killer show - The Secret Fantasies Tour.

A hand-picked selection of the Sydney Hotshots will have the crowd off their chairs and screaming for more with a high energy production that boasts the perfect mix of killer dance routines, eye-catching costumes, acrobatics, and of course jaw dropping athletic male physiques.

Each of the 14 dreamy guys coming to the Whitsundays have been chosen from hundreds of men nationwide and put though an intensive “Hotshots Bootcamp”, all graduating with an A+ in hip thrusting!

Coming from various backgrounds, the smorgasbord of delicious dudes includes Tradies, Cops, Farmers and even Fireman who love touring Australia and entertaining the ladies!

Hosted by seasoned professional Paul Reynolds, who was the original cast member of Manpower Australia and is a Las Vegas headliner, the showmanship and cheeky banter with audiences makes for an extra entertaining evening.

It’s the most fun a girl can have standing up!

The Sydney Hotshots have graced television screens, appearing on Studio 10, Sunrise, AGT and Good Morning New Zealand.

It is not very often that this type of performance comes to our small town, so let’s make the most of this opportunity!

WHEN: July 9

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club

TICKETS: sydneyhotshots.com

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A crowd of thousands passed through the gates at the Bowen River Rodeo and Campdraft last weekend and organisers said it was a fantastic four days full of action and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.

Held in Collinsville, the annual event has been running since 1886.

This year, an unprecedented number of competitors signed-up for a variety of events which encouraged the whole family to participate - the campdraft was especially popular with junior level competitors.

Organiser Sally Fry said that it was wonderful for the children to get involved and also watch the professionals so they could learn first-hand what they could aspire to achieve one day.

The committee are still adding up all the proceeds which will be heading directly to two worthy local causes – the RACQ CQ Rescue Helicopter services and BUCK OFF Melanoma which raises money to aid medical research into finding treatment and possibly a cure for melanoma.

Dan Condon Winner of the Futurity

Gotcha!

Yee ha!

Sam Kime takes control

Thumbs up if you’re having a good time

Mac Shann riding Porter - winner of the Restricted Open

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Over $10,000 was raised at the inaugural Lions Club Corporate Golf Day which was held at Whitsunday Green Golf Club on Sunday.

150 keen golfers played at the event, accounting for 32 teams who each represented a local business – from Red Cat Adventures to Eclipse Financial Services – this was an opportunity for a broad spectrum of businesses to get together and raise money for charity.

All proceeds will go to the Proserpine Hospital, split equally between the maternity ward, children’s ward and the palliative care ward.

Maurice Kite was the main instigator of the event, having suggested it to his Lions colleagues, recounting its success when held in Currumbin each year.

During the event many businesses donated items which were then awarded as raffle prizes.

An impressive $1000 was also up for grabs for anyone who scored a hole-in-one at hole 16 but unfortunately no-one got there on the day, so the prize money was put back into the raffle prize draw.

The organising committee said they were thrilled with the turn-out this year and are looking forward to making it an annual event.

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Perhaps one of the world’s most successful cult comedians of our time is headed to the Sugar City this June, bringing with him his freewheeling and fanatic brand of humour.

Science has proven laughter can induce a Zen-like state, but Ross Noble doesn’t know anything about that; his crowds are belly-laughing away at his on the go, amalgamated smashing of ideas together in the pursuit of comedy, arriving at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) June 17.

With an on-stage presence like no other, his exuberance, spontaneity and cerebral style have established him as one of The World’s best-loved comedians.

Join the master surrealist as he uses an infinite imagination and plenty of tomfoolery in a night not to be missed.

The English-born stand-up comedian who’s spent much of his life living in Melbourne is bringing his show Ross Noble - On The Go to Mackay audiences with a bang.

Each year and each show has seen his live following grow to the point where he’s been the best selling show at both the Edinburgh Festival and Melbourne International Comedy Festival on more than one occasion.

What happens when pure comedy takes human form? What happens when a creature is created and bred to do stand up?  Nobody knows because that isn’t a thing. What is a thing is Ross Noble doing a show! You can come and see it!

With critical acclaim across the globe: a Perrier Award nominee, Barry Award and Time Out award winner for best live stand up, Ross is as prestigious a comic can come, so don’t miss out!

Find out what the supreme master of spontaneity will bring to the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre next month.

You can book your tickets online at the MECC website.

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Friday 10 June

Made by You Workshops: Teacup Bird Feeders

Friday, 9:30am to 10:30am

Upcycle your old teacups into something useful, by making your own teacup bird feeder at this workshop. This event is for adults aged 18 and above.

Mirani Library

Made by You Workshops: Bee Houses

Friday, 11:00am to 12:00pm

Build your own bee house using a combination of new and recycled materials and attract bees to your garden by making a home specifically for solitary bees. This event is for adults aged 18 years and above.

Mirani Library

Mantra Yoga Workshop

Friday, 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Experience the healing and uplifting power of sacred mantra. Mantra Yoga is an ancient science devised by the yogis for activating the extrasensory energy centers of the body. Chanting is not a performance, and is definitely not about sounding "pretty". No prior chanting experience is necessary to attend, and we will each participate in our own way. Mantra can be chanted mentally, verbally, or through song, and we will do a little bit of each during this event. $35 per person at the door, cash preferred. Feel free to bring your own cushions, blankets, whatever you need to be comfortable. Water bottle recommended.

East Side Yoga Mackay

Friday SUN.sets – Tate and Connor

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Saturday 11 June

Mackay Beach Horse Races

Saturday, 11:00am until late

The iconic Mackay Beach Horse Races, one of the top social and tourism events in Queensland, are back and are expected to be bigger than ever attracting up to 3000 locals and visitors! With three days of entertainment including top Australian and local DJ’s, food, VIP packages, horse racing, Fashions on the Sand, market stalls and a recovery session on Sunday, there is something for everyone. Find out more and book your tickets at mackaybeachhorseraces.com.au.

Mackay Harbour Beach

Legends on Tour

Saturday, 6:00pm

The greatest musical legends of all time, characters, costumes, comedy and loads of fun. The show is filled with explosive talent. Each and every superstar is totally unique in style and genre from Country to Rock n Roll, Pop and Comedy. Almost every style of music is featured in this amazing two-and-a-half-hour show “Legends on Tour”.

Goosies Sport & Recreation Club

The AC/DC Story

Saturday, 7:30pm

A one-of-a-kind experience, the AC/DC Story is not a tribute show but a full theatre production described as ‘like watching a live movie documentary’. Over two hours of narrated facts, photos, footage, interviews and moments that this iconic Australian band experienced on their rise to stardom as well as in excess of 30 hits performed live by ACCA DACCA. Don’t miss the only AC/DC Show given the tick of approval by AC/DC themselves.

MECC

Sunday 12 June

Pioneer Valley Show

Sunday, 6:00am to 10:00pm

The Pioneer Valley Show is an iconic event in the community, widely regarded by fellow agricultural shows, patrons, exhibitors, site holders and entertainers throughout as the best one-day show in Australia. For more information and to book tickets, visit their website.

Finch Hatton Showground

Kokedama Workshop

Sunday, 10:00am to 1:00pm

Get creative and learn the art of kokedama. Kokedama is an amazing artform that calms the mind while creating something beautiful. It also gives the arms a nice little workout. Morning tea included sandwiches and cake. Numbers are limited so get in quick to book your seat.

2 Options to choose from include Succulent and Peace Lilly Kokedama and Peace Lilly Kokedama. Email potlessplantsqld@gmail.com to book your seat.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Sunday Live Music – Jax Morton

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

Monday 13 June

Trivia Night

Every Monday, 6:30pm to 8:30pm

Trivia night on Mondays at Centro Restaurant. There's no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it's free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players. Registrations from 6:30pm, starts 7pm. Book your table to avoid disappointment call 49 656 100.

Magpies Sporting Club Mackay

Tuesday 14 June

Mackay Show

Tuesday June 14 to Thursday June 16

The 143rd annual Mackay Show will showcase agriculture, equestrian events and sideshow alley, fireworks and entertainment over three days. Please note rides will not operate until 4pm on Tuesday. For more information and to book tickets, visit their website.

Mackay Showgrounds

Wednesday 15 June

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

The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Experience

Wednesday, 7:30pm to 10:30pm

Touted as Australia's most authentic Fleetwood Mac Tribute, this show really is The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Experience performing to perfection the sounds, the voices, the appearance and instrumentation representing the hit music of supergroup Fleetwood Mac and the legendary Stevie Nicks.

MECC

Thursday 16 June

Music Bingo

Every Thursday, 7:00pm to 9:00pm

Join Nicole at the Boomerang Hotel for Music Bingo every Thursday night from 7pm! Free to play, great prizes and family friendly! To book a table phone 3558 3301.

Boomerang Hotel

Mackay Beach Horse Races

The AC/DC Story

Pioneer Valley Show

Kokedama Workshop

The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Experience

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The Airlie Beach Festival of Music has been keeping this news caged up for weeks, but finally it is free to run wild – The Animals are set to take to the stage at the 10th anniversary festival from November 4-6 this year.

The infamous UK band are known for their greatest hits including House Of The Rising Sun, We Gotta Get Out Of This Place, Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood, Bring It On Home To Me, Don’t Bring Me Down, It’s My Life and more.

Two original band members, John Steel and Mickey Gallagher, will feature alongside new additions Danny Handley and Bobby Ruiz in celebrating a decade of bringing live music to the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.

Also announced in the latest reveal, Aussie legends Eskimo Joe, known for their iconic tracks Black Fingernails, Red Wine and Foreign Land.

Rick Price, Lloyd Spiegel, Lily and King, Innocent Eve, Lash 78 and Mardi Wilson, also join previously announced main stage acts including Ben Lee, Rogue Traders, the Badloves, Bill Chambers and Mi-Sex.

Festival founder, Gavin Butlin, said he was thrilled to make this second line-up announcement and honoured to welcome such high calibre acts.

“It’s been hard keeping a lid on this one while the details have been finalised but now that the cat’s out of the bag so to speak, we’re expecting to see a big surge in ticket sales,” he said.

To purchase tickets or for more information visit www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au.

WHEN: 3-7 November

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club

Tickets: $300 weekend pass

The Animals are playing on the main stage this year

Jaw-dropping sea views from the main tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club

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A community dinner will be held at The Creek Whitsundays in July to help raise funds for the Edwards- Bland family who tragically lost their 12-year-old son Stirling in a car accident in May.

Stirling’s twin brother was also in the car and sustained serious injuries.  

The event has been organised to wrap the family in a large community hug, with all proceeds, love and kind thoughts donated straight to the them at their time of need.

Jodie Ferdinand from The Creek Whitsundays said her son, Archie, had been one of Stirling’s good friends since grade 4 and they wanted to help his family through this difficult time.

Mel Butcher from Taylors has been working hard gathering items for the auction and Tolita Dukes from 8 Seconds has been volunteering her time with design work and social media posts.

Since announcing the fundraiser, organisers have been overwhelmed by the support from the community with many businesses donating prizes for the silent auction.

The night kicks-off at 5pm and Whitsunday Transit are providing three courtesy buses to ferry passengers out to the venue and back.

Held in the beautiful mountain backdrop of this rural venue, guests will enjoy a buffet dinner with live music from a guitarist followed by a DJ as the night progresses.

Metropole Bar will be operating with Happy Hour prices throughout the night and a silent auction will be led by Rob Murolo from Elders.

Amazing lucky door prizes will be announced every 30 minutes.

All proceeds go to the Edwards-Bland family and tickets can be purchased at Whitsundaytickets.com.au or call phone 0438750282 for further details.

WHEN: Saturday, July 9

WHERE: The Creek Whitsundays

TICKETS: $110 per person

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