The exhibition program at Artspace Mackay runs through until June 21, with Matters of Time: Contemporary Metal Practices anchoring the Main Gallery and highlighting an extended season of contemporary, cultural and international works on display. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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Three new exhibitions were previewed last Friday at Artspace Mackay ahead of their official opening on Saturday 18th April, offering an early look at works spanning contemporary metal practice, cultural heritage and contemporary visual storytelling.

At the centre of the new program is Matters of Time: Contemporary Metal Practices, which will be presented in the Main Gallery until June 21. The exhibition explores the evolving role of metal in contemporary art and its relationship with time, bridging traditional smithing techniques with modern metalworking approaches.

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Curator Catherine Woolley said the exhibition was developed to strengthen connections between contemporary artists and regional audiences.

“This particular exhibition was really interested in connecting contemporary artists with regional areas,” she said.

The exhibition features artists from across Australia as well as international contributors, with metal itself central to the exhibition’s themes due to its transformative nature.

“It’s such an incredibly transformative material. It can be melted down, it can be reused. It also responds to atmospheric conditions, so it rusts and erodes and weathers.”

She said the artists draw on these qualities to explore ideas around time, change and environmental impact.

“The artists are also questioning around extraction, metals and material that’s mined from the earth, so they’re often thinking about more sustainable ways that we can work with this material through both art and design practices.”

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Also now open to the public is Poco a poco, se va lejos (Little by little, you go far) by Joshua Searle in the Foyer Gallery, alongside Skeletons by Judy Watson in the Foundation Gallery.

Searle said his work draws on traditional ceramic forms from Colombia alongside a personal exploration of family history.

“They were taken from traditional ceramic forms in Colombia,” he said. “A couple of years ago I was fortunate enough to work with museums and archaeologists in Colombia for a few months, looking at my family’s history and the traditional histories and sculpture practices of Colombia.”

He said presenting the work in Mackay had been a meaningful experience.

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“I’m super excited to be here in Mackay. We’ve had the pleasure of getting to experience a lot of the beautiful natural areas that Mackay’s got to offer.”

Searle also praised the collaboration with the gallery team.

“It’s been an amazing opportunity to work with the whole team at Artspace Mackay. It’s just a pleasure to share this work with the community up here.”

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Even during installation, the exhibition prompted early public engagement, with two encounters leaving a lasting impression.

“A wonderful woman who works in the café next door was coming in with some Spanish tongue twisters associated with the artwork.”

“There was also another woman whose husband had just been diagnosed with quite severe illness and she said that seeing that work at this time meant so much to her,” Mr Searle said.  

“That really stuck with me.”

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Mackay Regional Councillor Heath Paton said the exhibitions marked an important cultural step for the region.

“We’ve always had beautiful pieces on display, but having these works here of this calibre is just a great step in the right direction for us as a region,” he said.

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From circus-style spectacle to nostalgic musicals and laugh-out-loud comedy, May is shaping up to be a packed month at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, with something on the calendar for every kind of night out.

Kicking things off in style is the Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball on 2 May, transforming the venue into a James Bond-inspired evening of glamour, entertainment and fundraising. Guests can expect a three-course gala dinner, live music from Brisbane band Beccy & The Jets, and plenty of action throughout the night, from auctions and raffles to casino-style games, all in support of The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service and The Neighbourhood Community Hub’s Food Diversion Program.

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Just days later, the stage is set for a bold reimagining of a classic, with Duck Pond arriving on 6 May. Presented by Circa, the performance puts a playful, contemporary twist on Swan Lake, blending acrobatics, aerials and humour into a high-energy circus spectacular suitable for all ages.

Comedy fans won’t want to miss Luke Kidgell, who brings his Good Intentions tour to Mackay on 7 May. Known for his viral crowd work and unfiltered humour, Kidgell’s latest show promises plenty of unexpected moments and adult-themed laughs.

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Later in the month, musical lovers can take their pick between singing along or sitting back and soaking up the show, as Grease hits the stage from 21 to 23 May. The production includes a special singalong performance, inviting audiences to belt out classics like Summer Nights and Greased Lightnin’, alongside traditional showings of the beloved story set at Rydell High.

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Families are also well catered for, with Pevan & Sarah in Concert bringing high-energy, interactive fun to the stage on 29 May. The popular duo blends music, education and plenty of laughs in a show designed to entertain both kids and their grown-ups.

Rounding out the month is The Big Chill Out on 30 May, a feel-good tribute concert celebrating the iconic soundtrack that helped revive Motown. Featuring hits from legendary artists like Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin and Smokey Robinson, the show promises a night of soul, nostalgia and timeless music performed live by a 10-piece band.

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With a mix of theatre, music, comedy and community events, the MECC’s May program offers plenty of reasons to get out and experience Mackay’s thriving arts and entertainment scene.

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Manyia Vale (right) emphasises the importance of yoga in its ability to heal both the body and mind Photo source: Facebook

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Vibe Yoga Pilates was born from both intuition and a gap in the Whitsundays wellness scene. At the time, Airlie Beach had no infrared hot yoga or Pilates studio, despite the powerful benefits of these practices. Having already opened three studios on the Sunshine Coast, ManyiaVale knew the impact such a space could have on a community.

The opportunity came unexpectedly. After leaving the Whitsundays, a former massage client reached out with a studio space. With no real plans to return, Manyia followed instinct and said yes—bringing hot yoga and Pilates to Airlie Beach. Nearly four years on, that vision continues to grow.

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Manyia’s journey began as a competitive runner from the age of eight, leading to marathons and triathlons before a serious hip injury changed everything. During recovery, she discovered original hot Hatha yoga. Despite her fitness, the practice was challenging—but transformative. Through consistency, she released physical tension and mental stress, gaining strength, clarity, and connection.

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This led to teacher training with Bikram Choudhury in the United States in 2000 and years of study across the world, always returning to hot yoga, alongside Pilates.

For Manyia, yoga is not about flexibility or perfection—it’s about healing. It connects breath and movement to restore balance physically, mentally, and emotionally.

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“It’s never too late to start again,” said Manyia.

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“It’s sharing something so powerful because you feel it yourself. The most rewarding part is watching people transform. It’s not just about teaching yoga – it’s about holding space. It’s about helping people come back to themselves, find their true self, and heal their body and mind so they can live a healthier, more pain-free, amazing life.”

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Karen Hill Floral Design: More than just a business. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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For the past 11 years, Karen Hill Floral Design has been more than just a floral business — it has been built on passion, resilience, creativity, and community.

What began as a love for flowers has grown into a trusted name, woven into the lives of so many people through life’s most meaningful moments. From celebrations and weddings to sympathy flowers and everyday gestures of love, every arrangement has been created with heart and purpose.

Flowers have always been more than something beautiful. They tell stories, bring comfort, celebrate milestones, and say what words sometimes cannot.

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A New Chapter — Opening in Proserpine

“Now, after more than a decade in business, I am incredibly proud to be opening a new store in Proserpine, Queensland.

This is more than opening a shopfront — it is the beginning of an exciting new chapter. The new Proserpine store is a space created for the community — a welcoming place where locals can connect, share their stories, and find flowers designed with care and authenticity.

This store represents growth, dedication, and the support of the people who have stood beside Karen Hill Floral Design over the years.”

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Built by Community

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“No business reaches 11 years without the support of its people.

To every customer, friend, family member, and local supporter who has trusted and encouraged this journey — thank you. Your support has helped shape Karen Hill Floral Design into what it is today.

This new store is not just mine. It belongs to the community that helped build it.

Here’s to the next chapter in Proserpine, and many more years of creating beauty, connection, and unforgettable moments.”

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This week’s poem is from Suzy Gordon, a talented local artist and regular participant in the Whitsunday creative scene.  

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Rainbow Lorikeet

dusky confederation
hot treat

flame tree bough
populous retreat

configure, noise
indenture, flight

dread colour harvest
swooning, cacophonous night

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On This Day 1986 April 24^th.

Chamber Of Commerce and Industry. This was successfully reformed in Proserpine, following co-ordination by Tony Drummond executive members of the Board were appointed. Tom Hill is the President.

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Shire Engineer Starts on May 1^st. Mr. Bullock becomes the first contractual Engineer for the Shire.

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Field Day For Farmers. 120 Canefarmers met at the Proserpine Sugar Mill to discuss items of mutual concern/interest for example trash conservation ie harvesting cane without first removing leaves and tops. Harvesting equipment would have to be modified to harvest unburnt cane.

Home Economic Dine Out. Nine High School Home Ec. Students enjoyed a dining exercise with their teachers at Angelo’s Restaurant to ‘study’ restaurant style food presentation in a delicious way.

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High School Marine Studies teacher Paul Hedgecock took his class to the pool to practise snorkeling skills for later use in the ocean.

Hailey’s Comet On View. Les Bell from Jubilee Pocket said that tonight should be a good viewing night from 11pm to midnight looking quite different from when he saw it in 1910!

Proserpine Primary School Captains: Nicole Churchward, Adam Smith, Jane Howard and Brett Buckley were presented with their badges at a special ceremony.

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Return To Paradise. Celia and Bill Staume, the first couple to be married on Hayman Island in 1958 returned to the Island having lived and worked in nine different countries since that happy day.

Bloods Twin Win. Airlie Bloods won both A and Reserve Grade games against North Mackay on Sunday under new captain Neville Allen. They played ‘top football.’

Lindeman Island Remains National Park. Less than 2% of Queensland remains under national park protection so Proserpine Wildlife Preservation Society’s campaign to preserve the Island’s National Park status was a major victory.

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Homeflair Floorcoverings. Vynil, assorted colours $7.50 a linear metre. Buy now and save.

Boxing. Airlie Boxing Club is growing quickly under the tuition of Danny Stewart. About 50 fighters from as far away as Cairns are expected for Saturday’s tournament at Airlie Allsports.

Marina’s Planned.Visiting Minister for Water Resources, Martin Tenni inspected the sites of four proposed marinas in the Whitsundays. Local’s concern about indiscriminate developers was discussed. The decision to ‘nourish’ Airlie Beach with 50,000 cubic metres of sand should be delayed.

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Crossleys’Car Sales are in the top 10% of Holden dealers in Australia. Manager Tony Vitanza received an award for customer satisfaction.

Clearing The Walkway. The Bicentennial Committee applauded the local community for much good volunteer work in clearing the walkway showing the spirit of the early pioneers.

Whitsunday Guidelines: Three new Brownies have enrolled : Kate Thynne, Peta McAllister, and Kerryn Hurley.

Swimming Club Championships. Trainer of the year was Marcus Mudie. Monthly improver was Michelle Perkins.

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Soccer: Whitsunday Knights beat Mackay Lions 5-2

Rugby League: Brahmans 20 beat Collinsville Miners 10

Junior Rugby League. Teams from 8 age groups Under 8 to Under 15 took on Collinsville with mixed success.

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Masses of other sport was played including: squash, tennis, rugby union, golf, bowls, basketball, dressage which we will try and mention next week. Not many people stayed at home.

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At 45 kilograms, Toby Lee is a gentle giant with a goofy streak and a heart full of love, currently searching for a place to call home.

Described by his carers as a “45kg toddler,” Toby thrives on human connection and is happiest when he’s close to his people, soaking up belly rubs, bum scratches, and plenty of attention.

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Toby has been doing exceptionally well in foster care, showing just how adaptable and loving he can be in a stable environment. However, due to a recent change in circumstances, he now needs a new home. Those who know him are eager to see him placed in a setting where he can continue to grow without disruption.

With a medium energy level, Toby enjoys a balance of activity and relaxation. He is wonderful with children and has a gentle, patient temperament that makes him a great companion for families. However, he is not suited to homes with cats or small dogs, and would do best in a household that understands the needs of large breeds.

His ideal home would include secure, strong fencing and an experienced owner who can provide structure, consistency, and ongoing guidance. Toby is looking for someone committed.

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In terms of health, Toby comes desexed, vaccinated, and microchipped, making him ready to transition smoothly into his new home.

Toby Lee’s story is one of resilience, affection, and the simple desire to belong.  

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Adoption fee: $400.

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For more details please contact Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc.

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What is love? What does it mean? What is the difference between platonic and romantic love?

At the core of the human psyche – the question of love has been pondered for thousands of years. The majority of religions, the majority of classic literature, the majority of poetry – of art – music – centres around the theme of love.  

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Artists dedicate their whole life to reflections on love – the gloom of its absence and the fear of its presence.

A lot of has been said about love. There is certainly no shortage of commentary. I think one of my favourite musings on love however – comes from one of my all-time favourite shows Fleabag written by Phoebe Waller Bridge. This monologue comes from a character simply known as ‘The Priest’ played brilliantly by Andrew Scott. I’ll leave it here.  

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“Love is awful. It’s painful. It’s frightening. It makes you doubt yourself, judge yourself, distance yourself from the other people in your life. It makes you selfish. It makes you creepy. It makes you obsessed with your hair. It makes you cruel. It makes you say and do things you never though you would do. It’s all any of us want, and its hell when we get there. So, no wonder it’s something we don’t want to do on our own. I was taught if we’re born with love then life is about choosing the right place to put it. People talk about that a lot, feeling right, when it feels right it’s easy. But I’m not sure that’s true. It takes strength to know what’s right. And love isn’t something that weak people do. Being a romantic takes a hell of a lot of hope. I think what they mean is, when you find somebody that you love, it feels like hope.”

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‘Mad Mabel’ is a fictional novel written by Sally Hepworth. It is a fast-paced story about a little girl’s survival in a rich, lonely, judgemental world. It is a miracle that she has survived until the age of 81 which is when we first meet her. She has renamed herself ‘Elsa’ and is living a quiet life until she attempts to rescue an elderly neighbour who subsequently dies. Suddenly it is revealed that she is THE infamous ‘Mad Mabel’ and everyone suspects she has ‘done it again.’

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‘Mad Mabel’ is an easy, pleasant and addictive read. All the characters are easy to visualise and even harder to dismiss from your mind; you are still thinking about Ness and Cess and Persephone long after the book’s conclusion. Crucially, all Sally’s characters reflect the current societal mix, an interesting blend of good and not so good – plus the last chapter is a combination of surprises, revelations and when justice is sort of served – finally! I did shed a tear.

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If, like me, you just love reading come and join the Airlie Book Club – we meet every last Thursday of the month at The Rainbow Bakery at 12.30 for a coffee or a light lunch and then discuss the ‘Book of the Month’. This month it is ‘The Promise Seed’ by Cass Moriarty. See you there!

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Contributed with thanks to Janet Smith  

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WHAT: Airlie Book Club  

WHEN: Last Thursday of every month, 12.30pm  

WHERE: The Rainbow Bakery

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Photo Supplied

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The Airlie Beach Hotel is thrilled to host the ‘Clash of the Keys’, an incredibly exciting fresh act.  

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Two pianos. Two personalities. And a full room singing along.  

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Clash of the Keys is a boiler room, 360-degree style performance in which two piano titans go head-to-head from a non-stop action-packed night of duelling music. Expect wall-to-wall crowd interaction as players battle with their strongest musical skills – taking requests, trading banter and prompting grand sing-alongs to blur the line between stage and audience.  

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Whether it’s high-octane 80s covers or contemporary music’s biggest hits and anthems – nothing is off limits. Clash of the Keys is guaranteed to transform from a show into a fully blown party.  

Events have seen record attendance numbers selling out venues and packing rooms with huge crowds – demonstrating the sheer popularity and entertainment level of the event.  

The special event will feature music talent’s Bodhi Acton and Cassidy Rae for an unforgettable afternoon you won’t want to miss.  

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Clash of the Keys presents the kind of atmosphere and experience that keeps people sticking around for the whole afternoon.  

It’s loud. It’s loose. It’s electric. It’s Clash of the Keys at the Airlie Beach Hotel!!  

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WHAT: Clash of the Keys – Boiler Room 360 degrees, FREE

WHEN: Saturday 2^nd & 3^rd May, 2pm til 5.30pm

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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Music-lovers and sunseekers alike have the chance to experience the Whitsundays like never before, thanks to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s ultimate ‘Party in Paradise’ package prize.  

Compiled in partnership with some of the region’s premier tourism providers, this exclusive prize package, valued at over $5,000, frames the much-loved music event as less of a stand-alone festival and more a complete destination experience that no-one should miss.  

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Bringing together the very best of the Whitsundays, from VIP festival access to bucket-list experiences on the Great Barrier Reef, this ultimate prize includes:  

• 2 x VIP Festival Passes (valued at $2,300)

• 5 Nights in a Waterview Queen Room at Heart Hotel, Airlie Beach (valued at $1,325)

• 2 x Ocean Rafting ‘Fly & Raft’ tours, comprising scenic flights over Heart Reef plus Whitehaven Beach day trips (valued at $1,106)

• Daily breakfasts at The Deck, Airlie Beach (valued at $320)

• 1 x Seafood Platter for Two at Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill (valued at $159)

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Festival founder, Gavin Butlin, said through this initiative one lucky winner and their plus-one, would experience five days of “pinch-me-moments”, combining a world-class live music lineup with all the trimmings of a tropical escape – simply by subscribing to the festival’s digital newsletter before entries close at midnight on Sunday, May 17.  

Mr Butlin reiterated that entering was as easy as subscribing to the festival’s email newsletter at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au/ultimate-party-in-paradise-package.  

The 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music runs from November 6-8, featuring 60-plus acts in 15 venues, and a waterfront main stage at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.  

Confirmed headliners include Xavier Rudd, Mental As Anything, The Whitlams, The Radiators, Adam Harvey, 19-Twenty, Skinny Living (UK), Little Quirks, The Mason Rack Band, The Wayward Suns, Loonaloop, Salt & Steel, and Monroe, with more acts to be announced.  

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The festival is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland and is a finalist in the 2026 Queensland Music Awards, for the People’s Choice Award ‘Festival of the Year’.  

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For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au  

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April

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

25 Australian Rock, ANZAC DAY, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm-6pm

25 PBR Bull Pit Bull Bash, 145 Midge Point Road, Bloosmbury, 4pm

25 Bowen Cenotaph Turns 100

26 Bowen Potters Group Market, Queens Beach, 3pm-6pm

28 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

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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

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

26 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

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

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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

18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am

23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

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Alumni of Foxdale State School gathered for a historical reunion last weekend, a whopping 90 years after the oldest attendee joined the school. Foxdale State School opened in March of 1904 following increasing dissatisfaction from parents about the distance their children had to or ride to school in Proserpine. It remained in operation until 1972, recording the attendance of 668 pupils over 68 years.  

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This particular event came about following the success of a smaller reunion which featured the Year 7 cohort of 1966. Organiser Noela Jamieson determined that a full school reunion was to be arranged, and her hard work culminated in a beautiful get-together at Proserpine Showgrounds.

Past students loaned memorabilia for the function with assistance from Proserpine Historical Museum who supplied photos. Many travelled from afar, with approximately 100 in attendance.  

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A special thanks to the main organising committee: Noela Jamieson (née Deicke), Carol Josesfski (née Quod) and Ross Josesfski, Ozzie and Debbie Moranino, Joe and Jenny Atkinson, Frank Stefani, Louise Shoebridge (née Stanley)

See all photos here: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/alumni-gather-for-historical-school-reunion

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Captions  

1. Freda Treacy, wife of Des Treacy – Principal of Foxdale State School from 1957 to 1965. Their son Brett was Master of Ceremonies for the event.

2. A cake made by Alisa Greenwood replicated the one made for the Jubilee celebrations of the Foxdale School in 1954. The cake was cut by Noelie Dibben (nee Newberry) – the oldest student in attendance

3. Joe Atkinson, Dean Treacy and Russell Biggs

4. Robert Taylor and Noelie Newberry

5. Louise Stanley and Carol Quod  

6. The event gathered alumni from far and wide across the school’s 68 years of operation.

7. Attendees reminisced, with photographs and historical objects arranged around the room.  

8. Ida Arici, John Grosskreutz, Josephine Smith  

9. Photo credit: Suzanna McLoughlin
10. Eileen Taylor/Jochheim, Alisa Atkinson/Fraser, Adele Deicke/McCormack, Josephine Atkinson/Kemp, Angelio Rossetti, Margueriette (Noelie) Newberry/Dibben

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A new fuel status feature has been activated on the Whitsunday Disaster Dashboard. This live filter option provides real-time updates on the availability and price of fuel across the Whitsunday Region when you need it the most.  

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Head to disaster.whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au/Dashboard and choose ‘Fuel Supplies’ from the top banner or check fuel status in the filter options before clicking on your preferred service station.

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The filming of a Hollywood movie in Queensland is expected to contribute an estimated $51 million and employ around 215 people. Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays is set to provide the backdrop for a new film starring Jake Gyllenhaal and Kevin Costner, who are rumoured to be on Hayman Island this week.

Screen Queensland has announced the production of a romantic comedy titled Honey with Harry.

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The film is described as an emotional drama-comedy based on the novel by Bart Baker. It follows Todd (Gyllenhaal), whose life unravels when his fiancée dies just two days before their wedding. He ultimately embarks on his honeymoon with her father, Harry (Costner).

According to the organisation, filming will take place in both Brisbane and the Whitsundays.

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Costner was spotted in Brisbane only a few weeks ago, signalling that production is underway.

Meanwhile, reports suggest potential co-star Sarah Pidgeon and singer-songwriter Rita Ora were seen at Brisbane Airport departing for Hamilton Island on 20 April.

They were also reportedly joined by Shaggy, though his role or involvement has not yet been confirmed.

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The production of Honey with Harry is expected to contribute an estimated $51 million to the state’s economy and employ around 215 people.

While details remain limited and tightly guarded, anticipation is building as the region prepares to welcome a wave of Hollywood talent.

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