Sydney Writer’s Festival will be live streamed into libraries across the Whitsundays. Photo source: Facebook

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Sydney Writer’s Festival is not limited by geography. The ‘Live and Local’ program facilitated by Whitsunday Regional Council is ensuring that this highly anticipated event can be enjoyed by the literary enthusiasts of the Whitsunday – without even having to book a flight ticket.  

The festival is set to be live streamed from Sydney to Whitsunday libraries, bringing big conversations and bold ideas directly to the community.  

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“Events like the writers festivals create opportunities for people to engage with ideas, stories and perspectives beyond their everyday experience,” said a library spokesperson.

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“For regional communities, access to live streamed sessions remove barriers such as distance and cost, ensuring everyone can be part of meaningful literary conversations. It also helps to foster a love of reading, writing and lifelong learning, all of which libraries proudly champion.”

The festival stream will begin on Thursday 21^st May at 2pm, with a talk from Stephaine Alexander, a renowned restaurateur, cook and food writer, who will be arriving via live stream to discuss her book ‘The Cook’s Companion’.

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On Friday 22^nd May at 12pm, American novelist and previous recipient of the National Book Award for Fiction Susan Choi will be tuning in to discuss her latest novel ‘Flashlight’, which was shortlisted for the 2025 Booker Prize.  

At 2pm on the same day, Australia’s own literary legend Trent Dalton will be speaking. Both a novelist and journalist, Dalton has sold millions of copies through books such as Boy Swallows Universe and Gravity Let Me Go. He has been recipient of the Walkley Award, Australian Book Industry Award, Indie Book Award and Queensland Literary Award.  

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A spokesperson shared:  
“Libraries are passionate about connecting communities with stories, ideas and each other. We’re particularly excited to bring high quality, free events to our region and to give our community the chance to hear directly from celebrated authors and thinkers.

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“It’s also a great lead-in to the Whitsunday Writers Festival in September, which highlights local voices and creativity, continuing the celebration of storytelling, local authors, and literary connections across our community.”

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WHAT: Sydney Writer’s Festival Live & Local  

WHEN: Thursday 21^st May - Friday 22^nd May

WHERE: Whitsunday Regional Council Libraries

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Middle age and the kids have flown

An empty house, you’re all alone.

What can you do, you can’t just sit,

So make an effort to go out a bit.

Join a club where you can mingle

With others who are also single.

With understanding folk who care

You’ll enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

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Don’t go intent on finding a mate.

Just meet new people, try to relate.

Unwinding is easy, relax, go with the flow

In time lasting friendships will grow.

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Sometimes a crisis knocks us about,

We sit at home and don’t go out.

We feel bitter at what might have been,

Instead of finding a brighter scene.

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We all need friends to make us whole,

Share our troubles and soothe our soul.

Find your courage and make the move

Join that club and life will improve.

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Kaye Cronan

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When I left my silent share house in the quiet hours of the morning to attend the ANZAC Day Dawn Ceremony, the first thing I noticed was the stars. There were so many of them.  

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In the city you can’t see the stars all too well, so it was a sight that certainly took me back a bit. Nowadays through science we know that stars are distant suns, among other things, but I wonder how our ancestors perceived them.  

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In primary school we were told that the Southern Cross constellation is visible across the Southern Hemispere; a reminder that all 8 billion of us are under the same moon and sun. The very same that were gazed upon by all who came before us.  

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In a time of great strife and uncertainty – where our TV screens and phone algorithms are filled with violence and conflict - it is important to remember this. That we all share the same sky.

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This week’s winner is once again Elise Dunckis for the theme: Vintage

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Elise’s photo is of the Horse Drawn Tram at Victor Harbour (South Australia).

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Next week’s theme is “Golden Hour”. Photographers can enter by joining the Whitsunday’s Amateur Photographers group on Facebook.

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Contributed by Whitsunday Amateur Photographers

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Large Crowds At Anzac Day Ceremonies. Trouble in Libya increased awareness of the importance of defence, leading to more support. Sixty stood at the Dawn Parade in Proserpine at 4.28 am and  throngs assembled for the Cenotaph which included Charlie Dougherty, an original Anzac who served at Gallipoli. Visits to the district’s schools were made.

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Nursing Home’s First Patient. Minnie Foss Yuskan, welcomed by matron Debbie Grillmeir, moved in on Monday on her 91^st birthday. She was soon followed by another 8 patients.

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Orchid and Foliage Society. Coach trips to field days in Bowen and Ayr were organised. Members were reminded that help would be needed for the display at Cannonvale School Fete.

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Local Tourist Centre Opens. The Whitsunday Tourist and Information Centre opened at BP service station by Peter Crossley. It replaces the Main Street offices of ‘Porters Travel’ which had operated for many years.

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Cricketers Awards Night. President Peter Lewis welcomed a packed house at the RSL. Patron Keith Jeffries presented the season’s awards. Alan Murray received the batting average trophy, a performance which included three centuries.

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Alice Smith’s 90^th. 7 of Alice’s 9 children attended her ninetieth birthday party.

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High School Report. Whitsunday High Schools Sports Trials. Proserpine Under 15 rugby league beat Glendon and Bowen with nine players selected for the Whitsunday team. The senior and junior netball teams won all their games with a total of seven players selected.

Jump Rope For Heart. Year 8 students are training hard for their fundraising sponsored skippathon to raise money for the National Heart Foundation. It will take place on May 30^th.

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Large Tourism Promotion. Whitsunday Tourism Association is preparing for a big promotion down South with a new video display.

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Ex Cannonvale Principal Returns. Former principal Kevin Oswin with his wife Noela paid a brief visit to see their friends in Cannonvale, which included a fishing cruise with Bob and Thelma Filby.

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Two Accidents in Ten Minutes. A driver lost control and hit a parked car in Manooka Drive. Ten minutes later another car ploughed into another parked car owned by Dr. John Parker who was attending the first accident.

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Proserpine Country Music. The local club have enjoyed success since its formation in 1980. Deanna Brereton, Sharon Waddington and Gerry Gerrard have all been successful at various festivals.

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Smiths Electrical Success. Ian Smith’s shop founded by his father in 1951 had won the “top store”  competition more than once and had since joined the Betta stores chain.

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Squash: The Whitsunday OpenTournament received widespread support with 105 players participating. l. Muller, and K.Muller came out on top in the men’s event while Dianne Crossley defeated Pauline Deicke in the women’s round robin.

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Tennis: Scotfords won against Sunderlands in the top grade led by Gary Scotford and Tony Stanley, while Alan Murray and Steve Tilley were prominent for NE14.

Golf. The ever-consistent John Grosskreutz won Friday’s Stableford. Saturday’s Trophy sponsored by Crossley Car Sales was won by Stephen Kovak. K.Burrows and N.Downes won the lady’s event.

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Bowls: There was a good turn out for the Anzac Day Cooke Family Trophy won by W.Daniel, J.Holcombe and J.Dafara.

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Basketball: The rain did not dampen the team spirit of winners Cougars, Cougettes, Zodiacs and Cats.

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Rugby Union. Local players Ray Aldridge, Peter Chengody and JimMcCormack and juniors Brian Filby, Andrew Camm and Brett Taylor were selected for Mackay and District to play in the North Queensland Country Carnival at Mount Isa this weekend.

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Medals awarded to Sgt Luigi De Andrea

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On May 26 1915, Italy joined the Allies when she declared war on Austria. Many brutal conflicts ensued for the Italian army which faced the daunting barrier of its northern Alps to make significant advances. Several of Proserpine’s Italian migrants who made significant contributions to our community served in the Italian Army and did so with distinction.  

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The following account recognises their bravery.  

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Luigi Angelino served in the 16th Cavalry regiment fighting in the Italo/Turkey war in 1911-1912. He was recalled by the Italian Government after he had volunteered for the Australian army in WW1 (He had emigrated to Australia before WW1). Gaetano Balma was called up at the age of eighteen for two years compulsory military service and completed six tours of duty on the front. He was part of the United Front in 1918. Twice wounded in action, he was decorated for bravery. Natale Botta enlisted in the 5th Regiment Bersaglieri on 27 February 1918.

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Carlo Botto and Luigi Cantamessa had already boarded the ship at Genoa en route to Australia when orders came prohibiting the emigration of all males of military age. Luigi subsequently served five years in the Bersaglieri unit of the Italian Army. Captured after the Battle of Caporetto in 1917, he was a prisoner of war in Austria. Giuseppe (Pino) Cubito also served in the Bersaglieri division. Secondo Daffara served two years in Libya in the Italo/Turkey war of 1911-1912 and was then conscripted into WW1.  

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Luigi De Andrea joined the 149^th Zappatori Battalion, serving for eight years prior to the war.  He was awarded a bronze medal for bravery in blowing up the bridge across the Vipacco River, cutting off the advancing Austrians.  During his service, he survived a life-threatening bout of cholera. Luigi’s daughter, Mrs Gina Cantamessa, recounted that when her father developed cholera, he was actually thrown into the “lime tent” for the near-dead.  Fortunately, a mate dragged him out and he eventually made a full recovery. Luigi’s war record has been made more personal because he kept a diary of events.  

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Renzo Donadelli served in the Alpine Regiment, recognised as expert mountain troops.  He fought in Italy and in the trenches in France. Battista Faletti’s War Certificate was issued in Rome 2 March 1921. Luigi Fiorito was decorated for his services and conferred the title of Cavaliere dell’Ordine di Vittorio Veneto. Giacomo Madeo, who enlisted at eighteen years, served as a cavalier in France, bringing cannons to the front line with donkeys. Giuseppe Magnetti was decorated for war service years later on Italian Commendation Day, 4 November 1974, Brisbane. As a seventeen year old, world events saw Osvaldo Moranino serving in the front lines in the same unit as his father. Stefano Nano fought with the Italian army in Libya and during WW1 in Austria where he was taken prisoner of war.  Cesare Pini fought in the Italian Army in WWI.  He and his brother were both prisoners of war in Austria. Years later, Caesar told his family that they were so hungry in the POW camp, they risked sneaking out at night to dig for potatoes.

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Luigi Raiteri volunteered for the Australian Army during WW1 and was aboard a troopship bound for overseas when peace was declared. Giuseppe Sabeto was prisoner of war in Germany. Angelo Scodellaro fought with distinction in several wars during his eight years in the Italian Army and his family hold a collection of nine medals awarded to him.

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Others who served were Gino Belle; Lino Borellini; Francesco Botta; Giovanni Ferraro; Domenico Magnetti; Luigi Olivetta; Giuseppe Ruschena; Carlo Silvano; Bernardo Stringini and Luigi Zeglio.

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Story courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum. Photo sourced from “A Heart in Two Places”.

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Come see iconic classics performed with a fresh Aussie twist!! Photo source: Facebook

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The Airlie Beach Hotel is proud to present Oz Boyz as they land in Airlie to celebrate Mother’s Day with a special series of shows. Get excited for modern chart-toppers and the world’s greatest hits in one phenomenal act, all with an Aussie twist! There will be moves like Jagger, silky vocals and sharp suits to match.  

This stacked lineup features familiar faces from many of Australia’s touring shows and musicals including Jersey Boys, Wicked, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Mamma Mia! The Musical, Grease the Arena Spectacular, Saturday Night Fever, The Voice & many more.  

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This is the first time the Oz Boyz will be playing at the Airlie Beach Hotel and they are excited to have the opportunity to perform to the Airlie crowd.  

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“It’s hard to pick the highlights,” said a spokesperson from the group.  

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“But some include songs from the Temptations, Bruno Mars, Roy Orbison and a sprinkle of rock n roll, to a few special additions just for the Airlie crowd.”

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The group can’t wait to share the performances they have spent endless hours perfecting.  

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“What makes the performance unique is the dynamic between the guys and their special Aussie take on the songs. What’s also great is the fact that it isn’t one set genre, but rather a collection of greatest hits and varied styles fit for all ages.”

Oz Boyz actively encourage audience participation.

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“Part of an Oz Boyz show is the crowd singing as loud, if not louder than the guys.”

The Airlie Beach Hotel is offering a Mother’s Day special where you receive a FREE bottle of wine with any table booking – so make your reservation now.

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WHAT: Oz Boyz Mother’s Day Special

WHEN: Saturday 9^th and Sunday 10^th May, 2pm-5.30pm  

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel  

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May

1 SPOT, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm-12:50pm

5 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am

6 Social Seniors, Cannonvale Library, 9.30am

12 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

12 Bowen Community Centre Open Day, 9.30am-11.30am

13 Luke Kidgell – Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:30pm

16 & 17 Whitsunday Equestrian Group T-Shirt Competition, Cannonvalley Pony Club, 8am-4pm

18 Placing of the flags, Proserpine Cemetery, 9am

19 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am  

19 Whitsunday Whale Heritage Area Information Night, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6:30pm

21 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am

23 Proserpine Show Ball, Proserpine Showgrounds, 6pm

24 Community Volunteer Expo, Bowen Sunday Markets

26 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

29 Speed Networking, Lumos Café, 7:30-8:30am

June  

3 Social Seniors, Cannonvale, 9.30am

6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Songwriting Summit, 9.30am-4pm

6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Concert & Conversation, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6pm - 8pm

9 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

16 Collinsville Open Cut Free Event

18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am

23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

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Friday 1 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)

Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)

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Saturday 2 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Clash of the Keys (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: Kieran McCarthy (1pm – 5pm)

Grandview Hotel: Dejavu (from 8pm)

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Sunday 3 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Clash of the Keys (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Sugarlips (1pm – 5pm)

Grandview Hotel: Jessica Da Pra (1pm – 5pm)

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Monday 4 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)

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Tuesday 5 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)

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Wednesday 6 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)

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Thursday 7 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm-9.30pm)

Sorrento: Lucy Rose (1pm – 5pm)

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Ken cooking up a feast Photo supplied

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Ever wanted to get to know the head chef behind Airlie Beach Hotel’s most beloved dishes? Ken Hooper is one of the passionate faces behind the venue, bringing years of experience and a deep love for food to every plate. His journey began in childhood, when he would cookalongside his mum, first discovering the joy of creating meals and sharing them with others. By the time he reached school, those early moments had already shaped strong foundational skills and a lasting passion.

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For Hoops, cooking has always been about more than just food—it’s about community. The kitchen is a place where people from all walks of life come together, united by a shared goal. “Hospitality is a different breed of people,” Hoops says, highlighting the camaraderie and connection that make the industry so unique.

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Since joining Airlie Beach Hotel in June 2015, Hoops has thrived in an environment built on teamwork and pride. He values “the work ethic and cohesion that goes into everyday to make this the best pub in Australia,” and that sense of unity flows from the kitchen to the dining room.

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Hoops’ favourite dish to cook is kangaroo loin for its rich, distinctive flavour, though he also enjoys preparing smoked meats with all the trimmings, meals designed to be shared and savoured. His advice to aspiring chefs is simple: have passion, experiment boldly, and find joy in bringing people together through.

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Pan-fried Barramundi, best enjoyed with a glass of white wine. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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At The Garden Bar, Airlie Beach, seafood takes centre stage, guided by a chef whose passion for fresh, coastal flavours is evident in every dish. The venue itself blends laid-back tropical charm with a polished dining experience, open-air surroundings, beautiful gardens, casual high and low seating, and sweeping views of white boats and islands, creating an unmistakably Whitsundays backdrop.

This week’s feature captures that spirit perfectly: pan-fried barramundi with crispy skin and delicate, salty flaky flesh. The dish is thoughtfully composed, pairing the fish with a smooth sweet potato purée that adds warmth and subtle sweetness. Seasonal vegetables, green beans and broccoli, bring freshness and balance, while a pink peppercorn sauce ties everything together with a light, aromatic spice.

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It’s a plate that showcases both restraint and creativity, allowing the quality of the produce to shine while layering in complementary textures and flavours.

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The Garden Bar’s strength lies not just in its food, but in the overall experience, where vibrant, locally inspired dishes meet a breezy, welcoming setting. The bistro offers a taste of Airlie Beach at its best: fresh, relaxed, and effortlessly memorable.

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PCYC Bowen had a great turnout for a series of unforgettable performances

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Bowen PCYC held an event for its Amped Up Youth Music Initiative on April 17^th, where the community came together to celebrate their young members’ musical talent.  

Amped Up Youth Music Initiative is a platform for young people to share music, receive mentoring and develop valuable performance experience.  

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“There was a strong turnout of performers and spectators with an electric atmosphere than ran through the entire afternoon,” said a PCYC spokesperson.  

The event was not short of highlights.  

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Believe Studio Whitsundays – a local performing arts studio – kicked things off with a powerful performance of ‘Ex-Wives’ from Six the Musical.  

Max performed iconic contemporary track ‘Beautiful Things’ by Benson Boone for the first time, performing with great emotion and intensity.  

The band Heavy Weight Banana Leaf performed a Nirvana-inspired set as part of their debut gig.  

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Next up, the Krusaderz kept the momentum going with a stream of classic rock hits.  

Finally, the group Sugar N Spice closed the show.  

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“Amped Up Youth Music Intiative absolutely rocked PCYC Bowen, wrapping up Youth Week with heart, talent and a whole lot of noise,” said PCYC Bowen Club Manager Paul Ellis.  

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Whitsunday Regional Council is hosting the third annual State of the Region at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre on 8 May 2026.

Following on from two years of highly successful events, this year’s forum is set to inspire and motivate, leading the conversation about the future of the Whitsunday Region.

The forum will be led by MC Natassia Wheeler, CEO Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) and will be composed of three panels spotlighting former Olympians, business leaders, industry experts and government decision makers.

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Mayor Ry Collins will lead the conversation as he outlines the state of the Whitsundays and the opportunities ahead.

“The Whitsundays is entering a serious growth phase.

“This event is your opportunity to be part of the discussions shaping our region’s future and to gain real insights into our economic future,” Mayor Collins said.

The Whitsunday Region is the fastest growing Local Government Area (LGA) in regional Queensland.

“Our region is booming, with strong economic benefits being delivered to the local economy.

“We’re eager to explore how Brisbane 2032 will contribute to this expansion in the leadup, delivery, and in the aftermath of the games,” he added.

The forum will deliver real practical tips and motivate participants to find new and exciting opportunities to grow, adapt and think bigger.

The event is free, but pre-registration is required. To reserve your spot and be part of the action, visit https://bit.ly/WRC-SOTR

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Additional Information

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Olympic Panel

• Dominique Lamb - Brisbane 2032

• Cate Campbell – Australian Olympic Gold Medallist Swimmer

• Cedric Dubler – Australian Olympic Decathlete

• Al Vinney – Australian paralympic Rower & World Championship Silver Medallist

• Sam Tait – Australian Paralympic Alpine Skier

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Industry and Investment Panel

• Bernie Hogan – Chief Executive, Queensland Hotels Association

• Stuart Field – Managing Director, Oztix

• Euan Robertson, Managing Director, Blackstone

• James Gilmour, Co-Founder & Director, Gilmour Space Technologies

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Local Leaders Panel

• Tim Booth – CEO, Tourism Whitsundays

• The Hon Dale Last MP – Member for Burdekin

• Paul McLaughlin – Chairman, Bowen Collinsville Enterprise

• Jenn Honnery – CEO Bowen Gumlu Growers Association

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Next Friday 8 May 2026, Council will be hosting the State of the Region forum at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. Bringing together business, industry and community leaders, the event will explore what’s next for our region as we position for success leading into Brisbane 2032. Panel speakers include Olympic and Paralympic athletes such as Cate Campell, and industry leaders such as Euan Robert from Blackstone.  

Visit the Proserpine Entertainment Centre’ website to learn more about the event and to reserve your free spot.  

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The Bowen Community Centre is dedicated to bringing people together

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The Bowen Community Centre is excited to announce its second Open Day, to be held on Tuesday 12^th May, 9:30am-11:30am, at the beautiful new centre at 34–40 Gregory Street. This is a special moment for the team, and they’d love for you to be part of it.  

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Come along for luckydoor prizes, meet the friendly staff, learn about their roles, and explore the programs and shop they have on site. It’s the perfect chance to see what the community centre does, and how you can get involved. The centre will also have tea, coffee, and cake available—because everything is better with a cuppa and something sweet.

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But that’s not all. The Bowen Community Centre is also proud to be part of the Community Volunteer Expo at the Sunday Markets on 24^th May. This event will bring together many of our amazing local community groups to showcase the benefits of volunteering. If you’ve been thinking about getting involved or trying something new, this is the perfect opportunity to explore a wide range of volunteering options and chat with the organisations who make a real difference.

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Whether you’re curious, communityminded, or simply looking for a way to give back, the team would love to see you. Together, Bowen can continue to build a stronger, more connected community.

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Contributed with thanks to the Bowen Community Centre.  

WHAT: Bowen Community Centre Open Day

WHEN: Tuesday 12^th May, 9.30am-11.30am

WHERE: Bowen Community Centre

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