Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays, said recent results reinforce that The Whitsundays remains one of Australia's most compelling destinations for both domestic and international travellers. Photo source: Tourism Whitsundays

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Tourism Whitsundays (TW) have released results from the Tourism Research Australia International Visitor Survey and Domestic Tourism Statistics for the year ending March 2026, confirming $271.8 million in international visitor expenditure, up 27.6% year-on-year, alongside 688,000 domestic overnight visitors.

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Key statistics — year ending March 2026

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International Visitor Survey

• International expenditure: $271.8 million, up 27.6% (record)

• International visitors: 175,000, down 1.7% 

• Visitor nights: 1.3 million, up 15%

• Average length of stay: 7.7 nights, up 1.1 nights

• Spend per visitor night: $202, up 11%

• Spend per visitor: $1,551, up 29.9%

• Continental Europe: 72,000 visitors

• United Kingdom: 41,000 visitors

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Domestic Tourism Statistics

• Total visitor expenditure: $959.1 million, 3% of Queensland total

• Day trip expenditure: $71.4 million, 1% of Queensland total 

• Overnight visitors: 688,000

• Visitor nights: 2.5 million

• VFR visitors: 180,000; VFR expenditure: $164.5 million

• Interstate expenditure: $432 million

• Intrastate expenditure: $455.7 million

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“Record international expenditure, growth in overnight visitation and strong interstate demand all point to a region that is building real momentum,” said CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Tim Booth.  

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"What makes these numbers especially significant is the context in which they were achieved. Cyclone Koji hit The Whitsundays in January 2026, squarely within this reporting period, and yet the region returned these results. That speaks to the strength of operator confidence, the quality of the experiences on offer and the loyalty of visitors who know The Whitsundays and keep coming back. We are well-positioned for continued growth as we move into the year ahead."

"These figures show visitors are staying longer, spending more and continuing to choose The Whitsundays for the world-class experiences we offer,” said Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins.  

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“That means more support for local businesses, more jobs for locals and greater confidence in our regional economy."

"As the future home of Olympic and Paralympic sailing in 2032, these results reinforce the importance of continuing to invest in the infrastructure and experiences that will support sustainable tourism growth and ensure The Whitsundays remains a destination of choice for visitors from around Australia and around the world."

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Members of the Mackay Writers' Group. Front: Kel and Brooke. Back: Canna, Jack, Riki, Paul and Steve. Photo Supplied

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For aspiring writers, poets and storytellers, a rare opportunity to learn from one of Australia's most respected bush poets is coming to Mackay next month, with an all-day workshop designed to help participants refine their craft, share their stories and even transform their poetry into song.

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Hosted by the Mackay Writers on July 11^th the workshop will be led by acclaimed bush poet Mick Martin, who will guide attendees through the art of bush poetry while encouraging writers of all experience levels to build confidence, ask questions and develop their own unique voice.

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"Going to a workshop with an expert gives you permission to do things that maybe you always thought you weren't good enough to do.”  

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"It gives you permission to put yourself out there and write and ask questions and, like, expand your knowledge to grow within yourself."

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Running from 9.30am to 3.30pm at the Jubilee Community Centre, the workshop will give participants the chance to develop a poem, explore how it can be set to music and learn directly from one of Australia's leading bush poets.

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Founded by Paul Vanderloo’s, Mackay Writers has been bringing local writers together for more than 40 years, with workshops like this held only every five years. Alongside special events, monthly workshops at 1pm on the last Saturday of every month, supporting one another across a wide range of writing styles, from poetry to memoirs and everything in between.

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Whether you've been writing for decades or have a notebook full of ideas waiting to get started on, the workshop promises a welcoming space to sharpen your skills, meet fellow writers and maybe think up your next great story.

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North Head Lighthouse. Photo supplied

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Bowen residents and visitors can look forward to walking to the North Head Lighthouse when the tide is low enough in coming weeks.

Each year, during winter, on just a few dates, the tides are usually low enough to make this possible.

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The lighthouse is situated just one kilometre from the Bowen mainland, at the entrance to Port Denison.

It is one of Queensland’s oldest lighthouses and people have been taking advantage of the low tides in winter for many years.

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Port Denison was the first port established in North Queensland, with Bowen being officially proclaimed a town on April 11^th 1861.

Built in 1866, this six-sided wooden tower lighthouse protected ships entering the busy port between Middle, Stone and Gloucester Islands.

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The North Head Lighthouse was extinguished in 1985 and the original lens shifted to the Bowen Historical Museum.

In 2017, the North Head Lighthouse was restored by community groups, ensuring this important and eye-catching landmark is maintained for future generations.

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Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business Leanne Abernethy said the low tides in winter always attracted a large crowd of people keen to make the trek across from the mainland to the Lighthouse.

Lighthouse walkers follow an exposed sand spit in a curving path towards the North Head Island.

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“Your feet will get wet, so we recommend walkers wear reef boots or old sneakers,” Leanne said.  

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“We also recommend you leave the mainland one hour before the lowest tide to ensure you have time to safely return to the mainland before the tide rises again.

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“Walkers are expected to see red starfish and sea cucumbers. If you are really lucky, you may even spot a sea turtle.”

“We ask that everyone taking part in the walk respects the marine environment and doesn’t touch the marine life.”  

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The walk starts at Dalrymple Point and walkers are reminded that they take part at their own risk, and attention should be given to your fitness, suitability and the tide times.

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“We also suggest taking water and wearing sunscreen and a light jacket in case there is a breeze,” Leanne said.  

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“We don’t recommend the walk if the tide is above 0.2m – and don’t forget to take your camera.”

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Contributed with thanks to Bowen Tourism.

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Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue volunteer Michael and her partner have helped foster and rehome nine cats and kittens, giving each one a second chance at finding a loving forever home. Photo supplied

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By Chelsea Ravizza

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Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue (BCPR) social media and foster carer volunteer, Michael never expected animal rescue to become such a significant part of her life.  

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Today, she combines her passion for animals with a growing talent for social media, in a volunteer role she describes as the "perfect fit" for her lifestyle.

“What keeps me coming back [to BCPR] is knowing that even small contributions can help animals find loving homes, and give them a second chance,” she said.

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Over the course of a year, Michael and her partner fostered cats and kittens, successfully helping nine animals find forever homes. Although she admits they nearly “foster failed” more than once after becoming attached to their furry guests, Michael said seeing each animal grow in confidence and eventually find a loving family made the experience incredibly rewarding.

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“Moments like that remind you why rescue work is so important - it's one of the most rewarding feelings you can experience,” she said.

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“Seeing an animal arrive scared, unsure, or neglected and then watching them slowly learn to trust people again is incredibly special. When they finally find a loving home, you feel happy, proud, and satisfied knowing you've played a small part in changing that animal's life forever. It makes all the hard work worthwhile.”

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While volunteering often requires personal sacrifice, Michael said she’s constantly inspired by the commitment of her fellow volunteers, seeing firsthand how many juggle full-time jobs, family responsibilities and busy personal lives, yet still dedicate countless hours to caring for vulnerable animals and helping them find loving homes.

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“It can be emotionally challenging as well, especially when resources are stretched and difficult decisions have to be made. Volunteers do it because they genuinely care, but it takes a lot of commitment and passion.”

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Michael hopes more members of the community will step forward to volunteer or become foster carers, highlighting the critical role rescue groups play in regional areas like Bowen, where they often serve as a safety net for vulnerable animals by providing care, rehabilitation and a pathway to a loving forever home.

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“One thing many people don’t understand is that we don’t have a shelter. Our rescue relies on foster carers opening their homes to animals in need. Without volunteers and community support, many animals would have very limited options,” she explained.

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Groups like Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue provide abandoned, surrendered and at-risk animals with a second chance while promoting responsible pet ownership, relying heavily on community support, with every foster carer, volunteer, donor and adopter playing a vital role in helping save lives.

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“Our main focus is helping animals that have been abandoned, surrendered, or are at risk of euthanasia and finding them safe, loving homes, and none of that is possible without volunteers, foster carers, donations, and community support.”

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To learn more about becoming a BCPR volunteer, reach out to the organisation via email bcpri.adoptions@gmail.com, or visit the group’s social media pages to directly access Foster Carer Application Forms.

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“I'd love to see more people get involved, even if it's just fostering, volunteering a few hours, donating, or sharing adoption posts online. Every bit of support helps save lives.”

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Golfers dressed up for the 2025 event. Photo Supplied  

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Whitsunday Green Golf Club will tee off its fifth annual Lions Charity Golf Day on July 12^th, bringing together golfers and community members for a fun-filled fundraiser.  

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Held in partnership with the Lions Club, the four-person Ambrose style event welcomes golfers of all skill levels for a fast-paced day on the green, with the focus firmly on fun and fundraising.

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"We've created a really good sense of community with the Lions and ourselves," said Golf Club Manager Jon Miller.  

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Over the past five years, the event has raised almost $50,000 for Proserpine Hospital, averaging around $10,000 each year. In addition to supporting the hospital, proceeds have also been donated to Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, with this year's remaining funds set to help provide Christmas hampers for local families doing it tough.

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Fancy Dress theme event will run across the day with a series of shotgun starts, allowing multiple groups to play while keeping the course moving efficiently. Teams of four will compete in a nine-hole Ambrose competition, with players teeing off from different holes at the same time before making their way around the course together.

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Golfers can choose from several tee-off times between 8:30 am and 2:30 pm, making it easy for participants to fit the event into their schedules. While each round takes around an hour and a half to complete, many players are encouraged to stay afterwards to enjoy some barby classics alongside the community atmosphere at the clubhouse.

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“It's just really a true fundraiser,” said Whitsundays Green Cafe Operator Robbie Miles.  

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“We make it a fun day, it doesn't mean we can play golf, don't even hit a golf ball, that’s irrelevant.

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“The genre of it is to come and have a fun day, assimilate with the community, and everyone knows what it's for.”

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The club has secured strong support from sponsors, with Whitsunday Regional Council, Bendigo Bank and Cruise Whitsundays among those already backing the event. Whitsunday Green are still welcoming additional sponsors, with sponsorship available for $350.

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For those wanting to hit the fairways, entry costs $30 for an individual or $120 for a team of four. Open to golfers of all abilities, the Ambrose format is designed to keep the competition fun and inclusive, making it just as enjoyable for first-timers as it is for experienced players.

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What: Annual Whitsunday’s Lions Charity Golf Day  

When: Sunday 12th July

Where: Whitsunday Green Club, Cannon Valley

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There are some dishes that perfectly capture a place. At Sorrento Restaurant & Bar, it's the Prawn & Spanner Crab Spaghetti.

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Fresh tiger prawns, delicately diced Queensland spanner crab, cherry tomatoes, fresh chilli and a vibrant lime butter sauce come together with house-made spaghetti to create a dish that's both elegant and effortlessly relaxed. It's a celebration of the region's incredible seafood, interpreted through an unmistakably Italian lens.

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Served overlooking Coral Sea Marina, with panoramic views across the turquoise Coral Sea and Whitsunday Islands, it's a meal best enjoyed slowly. A glass of crisp white wine, the gentle movement of yachts in the harbour, and the afternoon melting into one of Airlie Beach's spectacular sunsets complete the experience.

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Leading the kitchen is Italian Head Chef Alessio, whose passion for authentic Italian cuisine shines through every dish. Fresh pasta is made in-house daily, pizza dough is crafted from scratch, and traditional techniques are paired with quality local produce to create food that feels both genuine and memorable.

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While the Prawn & Spanner Crab Spaghetti has quickly become a guest favourite, it's just one of many dishes that showcase Sorrento's modern Italian approach. From the rich, creamy Carbonara Fettuccine and the indulgent Filleto Fettuccine with chicken, wild mushrooms, spinach, pine nuts, gorgonzola and truffle, to the ever-popular Marinara Fettuccine overflowing with local seafood, every plate reflects a genuine respect for Italian tradition.

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It's this balance of authentic cuisine, fresh local ingredients and an unforgettable waterfront setting that has made Sorrento one of Airlie Beach's favourite dining destinations. Whether you're joining friends for a leisurely lunch, sharing fresh house-made pizzas in the afternoon, or settling in for dinner as live acoustic music drifts across the marina, every visit offers another reason to return.

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Because sometimes the best meals aren't just about what's on the plate. They're about where you are, who you're with, and taking the time to savour both.

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Lumos speed networking group. Photo supplied  

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Local business owners came together once again on Friday as Lumos Speed Networking continued its mission of turning professional connections into lasting friendships.  

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Originating back in May 2024, the event was started by local business owner Kathy Barker after she found working from home to be an isolating experience.  

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Having recently launched her own real estate business and wanting to meet more people in the region, Kathy drew on her previous experience running successful networking events to create a welcoming space where local business owners could connect, collaborate and support one another.  

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What began as an opportunity to build her own business has since grown into a supportive community where members collaborate, share ideas and help one another navigate the challenges of running a business.  

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“It can be quite lonely when you're working for yourself and working from home,” Kathy said.  

“If you've got any hassle and you're needing to look for certain people to help you within your business, then it's very hard when you're on your own.  

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“So I created the networking event so that we could all support each other.”

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Running the last Friday of every month from 7:30am to 8:30am at Lumos Cafe and Restaurant, each session begins with a series of short introductions. This gives everyone the chance to share who they are, what they do and the kind of clients or connections they'relooking for.  

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“Then pretty much it's kind of open discussion for everybody just to talk about whatever,” Kathy said.  

“Discussions vary from all sorts of things, personal life to business life and everything in between.  

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“It's lovely, it’s become really just like a bunch of friends all getting together.”

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While many familiar faces return each month, the relaxed format also welcomes newcomers looking to expand their professional network.

The event is completely free, letting attendees get their own coffee and breakfast before joining the conversation at their own convenience.  

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“I didn't want to make it a paid event where there was going to be even more pressure for business owners to put their hand in their pocket,” Kathy said.  

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What: Lumos Speed Networking Breakfast  

When: Last Friday of every month (Next: 31st July 7:30am-8:30)

Where: Lumos Cafe & Restaurant  

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If you can’t make it to the Mayor’s Charity Ball this year,  you can still support this year's beneficiary, BMA CQ Rescue through the Online Fundraiser.  For just $25, you can purchase a raffle ticket for your chance to win a three-night luxury stay for two at InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef, including breakfast and return transfers! Head to Council’s website to purchase your tickets today!

Whitsundays Holiday Park on Lake Proserpine. Photo supplied  

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Families looking for a fun and affordable way to spend the start of the school holidays are invited to Lake Proserpine this Saturday, with the annual Open Day returning for another morning of community entertainment.

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The event will feature live music, face painting, guided dam wall tours, a free barbecue, children's activities and even wildlife sightings, giving locals and visitors the chance to explore one of the Whitsundays' most popular outdoor destinations.

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Running from 9am to 1pm on Saturday, July 4^th, the free event will showcase everything Lake Proserpine has to offer this school holiday.  

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Kids will also have the chance to release fingerlings into the lake, with organisers encouraging families to bring along a bucket for the activity. Visitors can then meet local boating, fishing, camping and water safety experts, as well enjoy prizes and giveaways throughout the day.

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Visitors can also take a behind-the-scenes look at one of the region's most important pieces of infrastructure with a guided dam wall tour hosted by Sunwater. Tours are available for those aged 10 and over when accompanied by an adult.

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For those wanting to extend the adventure, Lake Proserpine Holiday Park is also offering free camping for children throughout the weekend, making it the perfect opportunity to enjoy one of the region's favourite outdoor escapes.

What? Lake Proserpine Open Day
Where? Lake Proserpine Holiday Park  
When? Saturday 4^th July, 9am-1pm

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Whale from last season breaching. Photo supplied  

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By Zach Houtenville

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As whales return to Whitsunday waters for another migration season, a newly deployed underwater hydrophone will quietly listen around the clock, helping researchers learn more about the gentle giants and the marine environment they call home.  

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It's that time of year when humpback whales begin returning to Whitsunday waters, with their tell-tale spouts once again appearing off the coast. While sightings have been slower than usual, strong winds are believed to be the reason.

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“There's been a few sightings, but not as many as usual. However, we've had a lot of extreme wind,” said Kellie Leonard, Master Reef Guide and Whale of the Whitsundays member.

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Despite the slow start, Kellie is confident the season will soon pick up and potentially be better than the years before.  

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“It seems that year on year the numbers are increasing,” Kellie said.

“The Whitsundays is a wild heritage site and that's because It's a major birthing ground.  

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“So a lot of the whales that are here first are the pregnant females who are looking to find a place where they're actually going to give birth and then they stay in that area for a few weeks afterwards.”

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This has led to Dr Olaf Meynecke, who heads up the Whale & Climate Program at Griffith University, to partner with Whales of the Whitsundays and google AI, to come back for their second year to conduct their acoustic research on the East Coast humpback whale migration using hydrophone technology.  

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The technology was dropped into the ocean last week, and will use data recorded from the sounds and songs of the whales to judge the health of the ecosystem, map migration patterns, mating calls and competitive behaviours.

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“It'll be down until October and then we'll go back down and retrieve it,” said Kellie.

“It can give us an idea of these other species of whales around or what's actually in the ocean that you might not normally see.”

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This is one of eight that have been deployed on the east coast from Batemans Bay to the Ribbon Reefs off Cooktown.  

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Last year's project generated more than 10 terabytes of data across 55,000 recordings, helping train Google AI to identify whale vocalisations and other marine life.

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As the 2026 migration continues, researchers hope this year’s hydrophone will add more valuable recordings to the mix, helping protect one of Australia's most important humpback whale habitats while ensuring future generations can continue to experience the annual migration.

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How education empowers families through pregnancy, birth and beyond

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One of the biggest challenges facing modern parents isn’t a lack of information. It’s the sheer amount of it.

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A quick online search can provide thousands of answers about pregnancy, birth, feeding, sleep, and recovery. Social media, friends, and family often add even more advice.

Yet despite living in a time of endless information, many parents tell me they feel more overwhelmed than ever.

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As a pelvic floor and women’s health physiotherapist, I see the power of good education every day. Knowledge doesn’t remove every challenge that comes with pregnancy, birth, or parenthood, but it can transform how we experience them. It replaces fear with understanding, uncertainty with confidence, and confusion with informed decision-making.

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Pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period bring significant change. Understanding what’s normal, when to seek help, and what support is available can help families feel more prepared and empowered during one of life’s biggest transitions.

But not all education is created equal.

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In a world where information is available at our fingertips, it can be difficult to know what to trust. Social media can be a wonderful source of connection, but it can also expose families to misinformation, fear-based messaging, and advice that isn’t supported by research.

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That’s why access to high-quality, evidence-based education is so important. Good education doesn’t tell people what to do. Instead, it provides accurate information, explains the options available, and empowers people to make decisions that are right for themselves and their families.

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When parents have access to trusted information and local support, they are more likely to seek help early, ask questions, and feel confident raising a family.

It’s also why events that bring health professionals, support services, and families together can be so valuable.

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Recently, our community came together at the Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond Expo, where hundreds of local families connected with professionals, support groups, and businesses supporting pregnancy, birth, babies, and parenthood. Throughout the day, families had access to evidence-based information and the opportunity to ask questions directly to local professionals.

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One of the most rewarding parts of the day wasn’t simply sharing information; it was seeing conversations happen. Parents asking questions. Expectant mothers feeling reassured. Families discovering services they didn’t know existed. For many, it was a reminder that support is closer than they think.

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The expo was also a wonderful reminder of how fortunate we are in Mackay. We have an incredible network of professionals, organisations, educators, and businesses who genuinely care about supporting families. Seeing them together highlighted the strength of our community and the village supporting families through every stage of their journey.

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A heartfelt thank you to all the exhibitors, sponsors, and families who attended, and to our major sponsors, Daly Bay, NG Gyne Health Care, BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA), and Women’s Health Physio Mackay, whose support helped make the event possible.

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Education won’t make parenting perfect. There will still be sleepless nights and unexpected challenges. But access to trusted, evidence-based information gives families something incredibly valuable: confidence. And confidence has a way of changing everything.

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Because empowered parents don’t just build healthier families. They build stronger, healthier communities too.

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Cane Cutter Memorial. Photo source: Mackay Isaac Tourism  

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Markets

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Marian Markets

Held on the 3rd Sunday of every month from 8am to 12pm, the Marian Markets are set within the grounds of the Holy Rosary Church at Marian. Visitors can enjoy a great variety of stalls, delicious food, and a welcoming community atmosphere, making it a lovely way to spend a Sunday morning.

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Pinnacle Markets

The Pinnacle Markets are held on the 3rd Sunday of each month from 9am to 1pm at the Pinnacle Family Hotel. Featuring a range of local stalls and community spirit, the markets are a great opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy a relaxed day out. Stallholder bookings can be made by calling 4958 5207. Markets will continue monthly through to September.

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Eungella Community Markets

Held on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 9am to 1pm at the Eungella Memorial Hall, 5 North Street, Eungella, the Eungella Community Markets offer a family friendly experience in an undercover, air conditioned, all weather venue. With local stalls and picnic areas available, it is a great reason to visit the beautiful Eungella region and enjoy a day in the community.

Top 3 Attractions To Visit

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Eungella National Park

• Perched high above the plains, Eungella National Park is a mist-shrouded mountain refuge known for its rich wildlife and spectacular views over the Pioneer Valley. Visitors can enjoy rainforest walks, picnic beside Broken River, and even spot platypus in the gently flowing water while exploring one of Queensland’s most ecologically diverse parks. Located: Eungella Dam Road  

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Platypus at Eungella National Park. Photo source: parks.qld.gov.au

Finch Hatton Gorge

• Explore Finch Hatton Gorge in the breathtaking Pioneer Valley, where rainforest trails lead to stunning natural wonders including Araluen Waterfall and the dramatic Wheel of Fire Cascades. Surrounded by lush rainforest, volcanic boulders and cascading waterfalls, the gorge offers a memorable escape for those seeking beauty, adventure and a refreshing swim. Located: Finch Hatton Gorge Road

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Finch Hatton Gorge. Photo source: parks.qld.gov.au

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Cane Cutter Memorial

• Stop at the Cane Cutter Memorial in Edward Lloyd Park, beside the historic Melba House. The 1994 statue honours the pioneering families who helped shape the Marian district and celebrates the region’s rich cane farming heritage. Located: 4 Anzac Avenue, Marian

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Queensland Theatre’s Calamity Jane will give PEC audiences the chance to sit on stage inside Deadwood's famous Golden Garter Saloon, becoming part of the production itself. Photos supplied

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The Wild West comes to Proserpine this October and for some lucky audience members, the action won’t just be happening on stage.  

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Queensland Theatre's acclaimed production of Calamity Jane is heading to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, with tickets now on sale.  

Alongside traditional theatre seating, a limited number of patrons will have the chance to sit on stage inside Deadwood's famous Golden Garter Saloon, becoming part of the production itself.  

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The immersive experience places audience members as drinkers, gamblers and bystanders of a chaotic wild west saloon, blurring the lines of being a performer and a spectator.  

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Director Richard Carroll first brought this depiction to life in 2016, before adding in the colour and flare of staging when it hit the mainstage in 2018.  

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“There is such a liveliness to this show, a sense among the cast and audience that ‘we’re all in this together’,” Richard said.

“A genuine intimacy and authenticity comes from immersing the audience in the production, and making them part of the on stage action.”  

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Based on the famous 1950s Doris Day musical film, the production takes audiences back to the American frontier, following the adventures of sharpshooter Calamity Jane, played by Queensland star Naomi Price.  

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The revival celebrates the unpredictable nature of the unconventional western women, challenging gender stereotypes while also showing true vulnerability and bravery.  

“In a time when men called the shots and a place where lawlessness ruled, Calamity was this legendary woman, a daredevil who unapologetically refused to play by anyone else’s rules,” Naomi said.  

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“To play such a pioneering woman who – decades later – is still so admired and adored is a genuine privilege,and I can’t wait to kick open the saloon doors.”  

The production also features some of musical theatre's most beloved songs, including Secret Love, The Deadwood Stage, Just Blew In From The Windy City and The Black Hills of Dakota.

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Performed through a piano-led score, the familiar tunes help breathe new life into the frontier classic while preserving the charm that has captivated audiences for more than 70 years.

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With high demand expected, particularly for the limited on-stage saloon seating, theatre-goers are encouraged to secure their place before tickets sell out.

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What: Queensland Theatre’s Calamity Jane  

Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

When: October 3rd, Tickets on sale now.

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Dirty Deeds Airlie Beach performance from 2023, Mick on the Guitar. Photo source: Dirty Deeds  

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Rock fans are set for a high-voltage start to the weekend when Australia's leading AC/DC tribute act, Dirty Deeds, takes centre stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel this July 4th and 5th.

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This sensational tribute act will get the crowd pumping with a stage-rocking performance, bringing AC/DC's iconic hits to life in a show dedicated to both frontman Bon Scott and his successor, Brian Johnson.

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“If you're looking for some good rock and roll, some authentic ACDC covers, Come down,” said Grant Allen, who rocks Bon Scott. 

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“We're a must-see, and you won't be disappointed.”

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The NSW-based tribute band has spent the past two decades touring the country, delivering a high-voltage performance and a passionate commitment to recreating the sound and spirit of one of Australia's greatest rock bands.

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“This is our era of music that we grew up with and we want to keep that spirit alive as long as possible,” said Allen. 

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“It’s all about keeping a legacy alive to make sure that the younger generation enjoy it too.”

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With Grant taking on the role of Bon Scott and Scotty stepping into the shoes of Brian Johnson, the band performs songs from every era of AC/DC, delivering a setlist packed with fan favourites spanning decades of rock history.

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Supporting them, is Michael Ward on drums as Phil Rudd, Mike Sheehan on bass as Cliff Williams and Dylan Hartas on rhythm guitar as Cliff Williams, combining decades of experience to recreate the unmistakable sound, energy and power that made AC/DC one of the world's greatest rock bands. 

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Completing the lineup is Mick Pelligrini, wielding his iconic Gibson SG in tribute to AC/DC guitarist Angus Young. Dressed in the trademark school uniform and armed with a wireless guitar system, Mick roams through the crowd under the band's "Jailbreak Spotlight", delivering the solos and high-energy stage presence that made Angus Young a rock legend.

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Their all-star list of world-wide gigs include headline appearances at the Snowy Bike Ride in Thredbo, performances at the Kidgeeridge Music Festival and Cops and Rodders charity fundraiser, as well as Australia Day celebrations, corporate events and countless pub and club shows. With years of experience bringing AC/DC's music to life on stage, Dirty Deeds draws the crowd wherever it performs. 

Whether you're a lifelong AC/DC fan or simply looking for a lively afternoon at your favourite local pub, Dirty Deeds promises a weekend of classic rock, big riffs and plenty of energy at the Airlie Beach Hotel. 

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What: Dirty Deeds AC/DC Show 

When: July 4 and 5, 2026  

Where: Airlie Beach Hotel 

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Captain W E Hood  

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How many people remember visiting the dentist in earlier times when repairing, extracting, and replacing teeth could be far more daunting than the procedures used in dental surgeries today? Yet one local dentist from more than a century ago -William Elvyn Hood - appears to have inspired confidence in his patients rather than fear.

William Elvyn Hood was born in Childers, Queensland on October 6, 1900. He decided to study dentistry, but this faculty was available only in Sydney. Upon graduating from Sydney University, he was registered as a dentist on January 17, 1922. Soon after that, he commenced in the Bowen practice of dentist George Beresford.

Mr. Hood made monthly visits to Proserpine, travelling by horse and sulky. During that time, he recognised that a fulltime practice in this district was viable. In January 1923, Mr. Percival Meredith sold his Proserpine dentistry business to Mr. Hood, who began in Proserpine on February 3 of that year. In May, he set up permanently in the town, originally establishing his practice at Mrs. Beames’ shop which was situated near the Grand Central Hotel, which was first opened in the old chemist shop back in 1916. Elvyn later relocated to Chapman Street just around the corner opposite the Eldorado Picture theatre.

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He certainly aimed to please his patients, as his working hours, set out in an advertisement in 1931, were 9am to 5pm on Mondays to Fridays; 7pm to 8pm on Thursday and Saturday nights and 2pm to 3:30pm on Saturday afternoons. If none of those times were suitable, he would open for special appointments, as well as providing discounts for family work.

W E Hood married Gladys Iris Trail on March 21, 1926. At the start of WWII, his family consisted of five children, Robin, Prue, Elvyn, Vivienne and Rosemary. He enlisted for war service in June of 1940 and was commissioned as Captain in 2/11 Field Ambulance in 1941. He served at Yeppoon and Redbank before going overseas with the Australian Dental Unit in New Guinea at Milne Bay, Port Moresby and Samarai. Upon his discharge on compassionate grounds on March 1, 1945, he immediately resumed his practice.  

In his early days, he was known as Elvyn, but post-war people called him Bill. After the war, Hood engaged a dental mechanic, Mr. H Frost, who had been recently discharged from the Services.

Mr. Hood was known all over Queensland for his beautiful gold fillings. His daughter, Prue, recalled, “He made all his dentures and fillings the hard way, using plaster of Paris moulds. The workshop always seemed full of fine white powder.”

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His son, Elvyn, remembered some of the charges from those early days. Extraction of baby teeth cost 1/- (10cents) and an ordinary extraction cost 2/- (20 cents). The price from amalgam fillings was 2/6 to 5/- (25 to 50 cents), and gold inlays were from £1/1/- to £2/2/- ($2.10 to $4.20). Imagine paying 5 pounds ($10) for a full set of upper and lower dentures and 2 to 3 pounds ($4 to $6) for a partial set.

Mr. Hood was a great lover of sport. He played golf and was club champion many times. In later years, he played bowls. He enjoyed shooting ducks and quail at Goorganga, and fishing was another hobby.

William Hood died on February 14, 1964. He was 63 and had been the local dentist for 40 years. Due to his excellent work, for years many people boasted of the fillings they had – all done by the late Mr. Hood.

Story and advertisements sourced from PHMS archives and “Proserpine Guardian”. Photo sourced from National Archives war records.

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