
On This Day 1986 May 5th Confidence in Mill’s Purchase of Wanderers. Shareholders of the Sugar Mill returned a vote of confidence in the acquisition of Whitsunday Wanderer’s Tourist Resort despite the Mill’s disappointing year of crushing with 90,000 tonnes of cane left in the field and what was described as a ‘dismal’ first year with the resort. Cane Maturing. Proserpine cane crop is maturing well with sugar content up two units compared to 1985. Starting date for crushing will be June 17th. Horrific Car Collision. A Mackay woman was killed instantly, 14 kilometres North of Proserpine when she lost control while manoeuvring around a deep pothole when her vehicle was thrown into the path of a semi-trailer. Obituary Margaret Jean Hiscox, an old resident of Myrtle Creek passed away in the Townsville Hospital. John Malcolm Milne, a well known district farmer from North Gregory died peacefully at home. Racing Club Proposal. Support from the Minister For Racing was being sought. In past years three racing clubs have existed in the area. One at Breadalbane flourished until a strange day when a galloping horse disappeared on the track behind some trees and was not the same one that came into view at the other side. P.J.R.L.Proserpine teams travelled to play St. Mary’s Junior Rugby League and recorded good wins in Under 11s, Under 13s and Under 15s. $9 Million For Highway. Work planned for the Mackay-Bowen section included bridges over Myrtle and Deadman’s Creeks. Fourteen Years Of Blue Nursing. The annual doorknock appeal for this Christian Outreach of the Uniting Church was led by Sisters Doreen Wesley and Denise Hobson. Last year 4,892 clients were visited. Services are without charge so they rely on donations. Opposition To Miss Figurehead Contest. Organisers of Airlie Beach Fun Race were reminded of the promotion of the region as a family resort destination. Fun Run 1986. The semi marathon 25.4 kilometres race from Fausts Corner to Whitsunday Wanderers was contested by eleven 8 person relay teams and ten individuals, three of whom beat all the relay teams. First junior home was local runner Shane Matthews. High School Musical. The production of “Dracular Baby”will take place in August. Full scale rehearsals are taking place now. Palm Grove Reunion. Over 70 former pupils attended the reunion of Palm Grove School in Upper Conway which closed 34 years ago. The second of two schools was opened in 1926 under Fred Clowes, an amazing teacher with two artificial legs from above the knee amputations. Skipper Returns. Former skipper of the “Island Wanderer” and “Whitsunday Wanderer” Bob Jenkins returned to Daydream Island on a trip to promote “The Yellow Submarine”. Over 60 travel agents attended . Special Education Students enjoyed a visit to Seagulls Restaurant and Mandalay Watersports learning about commercial kitchens and then boating skills with their teacher Pat Miller. A.R.L. Three members of Airlie Beach Bloods, Darren Short, Mark Bland and Trevor Bennett have been selected for the Mackay representative team in the North Queensland Championships in Cairns this weekend. Whitsunday Sailing Club Trophy Night. Club Champions were: Nick Harris and Steven Thynne[Sabots], Peter Chengody [Lazers], Adam Raleigh and Peter Demartini [Presidents Trophy] Knight Attack. Whitsunday Soccer Club teams both won in Mackay this weekend They are now league leaders in the Second Division and lying second in the first division after winning 9-1. Healthy Night For Netball. The netball season is progressing well with Sea Eagles and Veterans teams and a total of ten junior teams participating regularly, some healthy fundraising taking place and eleven girls passing an umpiring exam. League. Brahmans beat the Miners 10-8 in Collinsville Union. Raider beat City’s Mackay 30-0 Tennis. Team leaders A Grade- Scotfords , Reserve Grade -Slammers.
Read the full story
This week’s winner is Alissa Tomlinson for the theme Australian Bush Alissa’s photo of an adult and a young Tawny Frogmouth was taken at Hydeaway Bay. Next week’s theme is “Lights” – you can get involved in the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers Facebook Group.
Read the full story
Mackay Businesses Celebrated At 2026 Best In Business Awards More than 200 members of Mackay's business community gathered at the Mackay Turf Club on Friday night to celebrate the achievements of local businesses, organisations and individuals at the 2026 Best in Business Awards. Hosted by the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, the annual awards recognise excellence, innovation and leadership across a range of industries, while highlighting the people helping drive the region's economic success. Among the night's winners was Mackay Safety, which took home the Ground Breaker Award, while The Bookish Burrow was recognised as the Next Big Thing. The Neighbourhood Hub received the It's Not Easy Being Green Award and Crossroad Arts Inc was honoured with the Heart of Gold Award. M&P Services – Quality Transportable Buildings was named the winner of the Legacy Legends category, while Jade McAuley of RebelNation claimed the Mover of Mountains Award. iQ Solutions Queensland rounded out the winners list, taking home the Small But Mighty Award. The event was supported by category sponsors including Telstra, SBB Partners, North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation, Frontrow, Community Bank Sarina, CQUniversity Australia and Mackay Regional Council. Guests also heard from keynote speaker Bill Ovenden from The Lad Collective, who encouraged attendees to think bigger, act boldly and embrace new opportunities. The evening was attended by Queensland Small Business Commissioner Nicolle Kelly and featured event styling by Element Events by Ramona. The Chamber thanked nominees, finalists, sponsors, judges and guests for contributing to what was described as a night of celebration, inspiration and community pride. The awards continue to shine a spotlight on the businesses and individuals helping make the Mackay region stronger, smarter and more successful.
Read the full story
The countdown is on at Kucom Theatre, where cast and crew are hard at work rehearsing for the upcoming production of the much-loved British comedy Waiting for God. Bringing the beloved television series into the modern era, the stage adaptation follows sharp-witted retiree Diana Trent and newcomer Tom Ballard as they join forces to outsmart the conniving manager of Bayview Retirement Village, leading to a hilarious chain of events with some unexpectedly heartwarming results. Packed with wit, charm and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, the production explores the realities of growing older in the age of technology while celebrating friendship, resilience and the power of community. Behind the scenes, excitement is building as the cast and crew put the finishing touches on the show ahead of opening night. Waiting for God takes to the stage at Kucom Theatre in Andergrove from June 18th, with performances running across multiple dates. What? Waiting For God When? From June 18th Where? Kucom Theatre CAPTION: Cast and crew at Kucom Theatre are hard at work preparing for next month’s production of Waiting for God. Photo supplied
Read the full story
Legends Night has seen great success over the years with important funds raised for those in need
The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) will be bringing back it’s highly regarded Legends Night and this time it will hit the shores of beautiful Bowen.
The community are encouraged to gear up for an unforgettable black-tie evening of inspiring stories as handpicked ‘Guest Legends’ take to the stage to share their story. This year features the wonderfully talented Michael Kimpton and McQuility ‘Coco’ Qurikewith music from Zed Charles to fill out the night.
The event will take place at 360 On the Hill with further details via info@wspn.org.au.
The Legends Night has seen immense success in the past, facilitating unforgettable nights of connection, resilience and community spirit. It is a meaningful occasion, lending an opportunity for community heroes to share powerful stories around mental health and suicide prevention.
“WSPN’s goal is to raise vital funds to continue the work within the community and raise awareness that we exist and are here to help,” said WSPN President Matt Stokes.
“A massive thank you to Jen Lowcock from Lowcock Builders who has been the driving force behind planning this years’ Legends night. Which I am sure will be the best one yet!”
Guest speaker Michael Kimpton expressed his gratitude and excitement for the event.
“The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network led by Matt Stokes and his team are remarkable. Their work in awareness and prevention of suicide and support for the community is so vital,” he said.
Michael’s talk on the night will centre around the theme ‘My Journey’ – as he will reflect on important life changing experiences that he needed to overcome.
“The first was a horrific motorcycle accident that left me compromised and the other was meltdown following my retirement. We can recover physically but we also need to cope with our mental resilience to ensure our wellbeing.”
Legends Night promises to be a wonderful evening of great conversation and joy.
WHAT: WSPN Legends Night
WHERE: 360 On The Hill, Bowen
WHEN: 5.30pm, Saturday 13th June

This week’s poem is from Christine Pennay who lives in Collinsville; a big fan of the paper. She has been fiddling with words since her school years, so here is one of her works.
Water from the sky
The smell
The taste
The delight
Of it on my face
It's cool
It's wet
It's delicious
Running down my neck
So clear
So sweet
So clean
Washing over my feet
Let it rain
Let it pour
Let it thrill
My body o'er

I’ve been reading the book ‘The Language of the Night’ – a collection of essays by superstar writer Ursula K. Le Guin. Ursula K. Le Guin was perhaps one of the most influential, successful and prolific authors of the 20th century. She was not boxed in by any category finding acclaim in a wide range of genres and formats. She is known for her epic fantasy series ‘The Wizard of Earthsea’ and reflective science fiction pieces in her ‘Hainish Cycle’ series. She has won the Hugo Award, Nebula Award and National Book Prize.
In her witty sardonic collection of essays, Le Guin defends science fiction and fantasy as important and worthy means of literature – a direct response to the elitist critics of the time who condemned speculative fiction as merely for kids.
One thing I really enjoyed was learning about her process. She talks about writing fiction as a process of discovery rather than planning. In some of her most acclaimed novels she never used a plan or scaffold – she just simply started writing. I love thinking of writing and creativity as a process of discovery. It’s as if our creation is actually a search for something deep inside of us that we previously were not aware of.
She’s a great author who I would absolutely recommend to just about anyone. I am also reading her science fiction masterpiece – ‘The Left Hand of Darkness’. Definitely a brilliant piece of philosophical and existential ponderance.

Photo source: Shutterstock
This is a new initiative I’d like to try for the creative corner. We’ve seen great success with poetry submissions, and I love receiving people’s artistic forms of self-expression from across the community. Therefore, I’d like to open another submission opportunity.
Book Club is essentially your opportunity to talk about a book you love. Whether it’s a timeless classic, a sci-masterpiece, a contemporary chart topper or a local star – the book club gives you license to submit a short review about a book you’ve been reading and can’t stop talking about.
How to Submit:
Book Club submissions, once approved, will be included in the Creative Corner, space permitting.

Photo source: Shutterstock

The Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays is proud to announce the return of the Reeflections Student Art Competition in 2026, now expanded to include Year 9–12 students from across the region.
Reeflections celebrates the creativity, talent, and environmental connection of young people, inviting students to produce artworks inspired by the Whitsundays, the Great Barrier Reef, and the natural world that surrounds them. Entries may include painting, drawing, or sculpture.
As part of the region’s growing cultural calendar, Reeflections also contributes to the creative energy surrounding the Great Barrier Reef Festival, which celebrates the Reef through art, storytelling, and community events. By nurturing young artists, the competition strengthens the festival’s broader mission of inspiring environmental appreciation through creativity.
“Reeflections began as a small but meaningful opportunity for young artists,” said Nicole Campbell, Director of Sales and Marketing.
“As we enter our second year and open entries to Years 9–12, we’re building on those early foundations and working toward establishing Reeflections as an annual creative event for local students.”
Finalists will have their work professionally exhibited in the Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays throughout August, with winners recognised at a community awards event later in the year.
The competition aims to:
Dates, eligibly and submission requirements can be found on the 2026 Reeflections Art Competition Website, www.athotelgroup.com/2026-reeflections-student-art-competition-whitsunday.

First school building at Cannon Valley Arbor Day

In the past in sugar towns such as Proserpine, there were many districts and in each of these there were one teacher schools. One of these schools was the Cannon Valley School (situated at what is now known as Cannonvale). It served the population of Lower Cannon Valley, the beach and Jubilee Pocket, before the days of regular transport and few cars.
The school opened on April 25, 1910, with 18 pupils enrolled on the first day. In its early years, between 1910 and 1933, most of the teachers were female. One of these was Miss Lurline Argaet who was appointed in 1926.
Her father assured her it would be a great experience and a complete change, especially being "on the coast." The trip to her new post was adventurous: she took trains to Townsville and Proserpine, stayed overnight at the Palace Hotel, and was then driven twenty miles by Mr Doug Debney, President of the school committee to the valley, where Mr and Mrs Stanley, owners of a cane farm, would board her.
Picture this – It was January, the middle of the wet season. Roads were unsealed. Creeks and rivers were in flood. And then, along the way, there was a blow out in one of the tyres. Imagine Lurline’s reaction when Mr Debney dropped into the conversation the fact that the school was a further four miles on from the Stanleys but that there would be a horse for her to ride as most of the children either walked or rode to school.
The warm welcome from the Stanleys and their children lessened her apprehension. She was made to feel at home and Mrs Stanley became very interested in Lurline’s welfare. The Stanley boys were always most helpful.

Despite everything about farm life and animals being foreign to her, riding the horse wasn’t as daunting as Lurline had at first thought. Before long, she became quite adept at catching her horse, tempting him with a piece of bread and fitting his bridle and saddle. Joker, as he was called, was friendly, and although slow, he responded well when Lurline pressed her heels to nudge him forward or change direction. Water over Galbraith Creek was the only thing that frightened him. Joker was always well looked after and saddled by the boys for their teacher’s ride home.
The school was a small, high set, one roomed building with a verandah on blocks, a rainwater tank, out back toilet and a fenced in horse paddock which had large trees.
Lurline developed her own method of teaching and found the pupils very trusting. Grouped downstairs under the trees, some chanting tables, others their spelling, Lurline would be upstairs teaching new work. One afternoon lesson a week, the girls learned needlework and the boys maintained the garden. Being absent or late for school rarely occurred.
Country schools were very important to families – they were the centre of social life. There was a hall, tennis court and cricket club in almost every district. Lurline was very much a part of the social life in the Cannon Valley district – attending dances at the hall and participating in euchre and crib evenings in the home.One one of these occasions, she met Eddie Dray and they married in 1928.
Lurline’s dedication and qualifications were not enough to overcome the regulations of that era, which forced many talented women out of the profession simply because they married – and so, Lurline was required to resign in 1927 after two years of service.
Lurline Dray (nee Argaet) died suddenly at her Airlie Beach home in 1977 aged 69 years.
Story sourced from Proserpine Historical Museum archives. Photo used with permission.

This week’s photo of the week winner is Natalie Stockdale for this unusual perspective of the Eiffel Tower, Paris, under the theme of ‘Angles’.

This week’s theme is ‘Off the beaten track’.
Join the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers group on Facebook to get involved.


Philip Henry Thornton Clay was a military hero and dedicated environmentalist, who spent the latter part of his life in Proserpine, performing sea rescues and preserving our natural environment.
Philip’s commitment to the environment was very evident as early as age 15 when he helped to raise a petition which eventually pressured government to reject a development in a valued park. All this happened in Surrey and Essex, England, where he spent his childhood, but he retained this avid interest in conservation throughout his life, with he and his wife Joan acting as committed members of the Proserpine Branch of the Wildlife Preservation Society in their retirement.
However, Philip will be mainly remembered for his courageous efforts as a pilot in the World War Two. As a young man he had joined the UK Merchant Navy and in 1941 moved into the Royal Air Force. It was in this capacity that he was recognised. He piloted a spitfire over Germany and Algiers until 1945 when he was shot down over Germany. Subsequently he escaped from a German POW hospital. He joined Occupation Forces in Norway.
Proserpine Guardian 10/04/86 describes his courageous military career:
… Phil was commissioned and awarded, on separate occasions, the British Empire Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross. Still in the Air Force..he received the Queen’s commendation for Valuable Service for leading the RAF Vampire Aerobatic Team in display stunts over England. Later he was to win a Bar to his DFC for helicopter evacuation work in the Border War in South Yemen.
Philip left the RAF in 1961 and flew helicopters in Canada for three years before emigrating to Australia with his wife and daughter, flying helicopters for Ansett. In 1970 he came to Proserpine to fly Sikorski Helicopters to Hayman and back until his retirement nine years later.
In North Queensland Phil continued to live his life in service to others and, in 1972, was awarded the first Australian Queen’s Gallantry Medal for a helicopter rescue from rough North Queensland waves.
MEDALS: D.F.C. and Bar
Australian Gallantry Medal
B.E.M.
D.F.M.
Commendation [Air]
Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Museum

Friday 17th April
Exhibitions Opening Night
6pm
Residents are encouraged to come along and experience an evening of art and conversation as Mackay Regional Council and Artspace Mackay launch three new exhibitions on Friday, April 17. Officially opened by Mayor Greg Williamson, the free community event offers visitors the chance to be among the first to view the exhibitions Matters of Time: Contemporary Metal Practices, Joshua Searle: Poco a poco, se va lejos (Little by little, you go far) and Judy Watson: skeletons. Attendees can also meet visiting artists, curators, gallery staff and volunteers, making it a welcoming opportunity for art lovers and curious locals alike.
Artspace Mackay
Saturday 18th April
Friday Pop up Jumbo Sale
9am (Friday and Saturday)
Bargain hunters are invited to stop by a community jumbo sale this weekend, offering a wide range of items at affordable prices. Running from 9am to 4pm on Friday, April 17, and 9am to 3pm on Saturday, April 18, the sale will feature plenty of treasures including plants, jigsaw puzzles, books, clothing, toys, kitchenware and craft items, both new and pre-loved. Locals are encouraged to come along, browse the stalls and enjoy the thrill of discovering a great bargain while supporting a community event.
Marian Town Centre
Book Of The Month
10am
Art lovers are invited to take a closer look at Artspace Mackay’s Book of the Month for April during a special free viewing on Saturday, April 18 at 10am. Held in the Foyer Gallery at Artspace Mackay in the Civic Precinct, the popular program allows visitors to explore a featured artist’s book up close, page by page, with the guidance of knowledgeable Artspace volunteers. The monthly event offers a unique opportunity to experience artist books in an interactive way. Attendance is free, but registration is encouraged via the Artspace Mackay website.
Artspace Mackay
Sunday 19th April
Slade Point Community Markets
8am
The Slade Point Community Markets invite residents to enjoy a relaxed morning of nature, creativity and local connection at the Slade Point Community Gardens. Held on the third Sunday of each month from 8am to 11am, the markets feature local stallholders offering handmade goods, fresh produce and treats, alongside food vans, fresh coffee and live music. Visitors can also join a gentle morning yoga or stretch session, while children enjoy family-friendly activities. Community members are encouraged to bring friends, family and picnic blankets and spend the morning supporting local businesses. Dogs are welcome on leads, with owners asked to clean up after their pets.
Slade Point Community Gardens
Tuesday 21st April
Community Coffee Shout – With Shirlz Area Specialist
9am
Residents are invited to enjoy a free coffee and friendly catch-up at a community coffee shout hosted by local real estate specialist Shirlz Russell. From 9am on Tuesday, April 21, the first 50 coffees will be covered at The Avenue Cafe, giving locals a chance to connect and start the morning together. With no conditions attached, the simple gesture is Shirlz’s way of thanking the North Mackay community. Locals are encouraged to drop by, grab a coffee and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while the coffees last.

1- Artspace Mackay holding Book Of The Month on April 19th. Photo supplied

2 –Joshua Searle’s exhibition Poco a Poco launches on April 17th. Photo supplied

3- Slade point community market will take place on April 19th. Photo source: Facebook

4- Shirlz Russell will be shouting the first 50 coffees at The Avenue Café on April 21st. Photo source: Facebook

Mackay will soon go undercover in black tie, taking on a glamourous mission for a greater cause.
At the 2026 Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball on Saturday, May 2nd, guests will step into a world worthy of a Bond title sequence, where elegance meets purpose, glamour shakes and stirs, and every glass raised carries meaning beyond the four walls.
Hosted at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre, the evening embraces a Casino Royale–inspired theme, transforming the venue into a landscape of glamour, mystery and celebration. Doors to the foyer and halls open at 6.30pm, inviting guests to dress in black tie or Bond-inspired style for a night designed to dazzle.
This year’s ball will raise vital funds for The Salvation Army Family Violence Service and The Neighbourhood Community Hub’s Food Diversion Program.
Salvation Army State Manager of Family Violence Programs, Hannah Stephen, highlighted the ongoing importance of community-led fundraising support, particularly through events such as the Mayor’s Charity Ball.
“Time and again, the local community have stepped up to offer support for victim survivors of family violence, and to strongly stand by the fact that violence is not okay… And that's very reflective of the support that we've received from the Mayor's Charity Ball.”
“The funds we receive from the event specifically support victim survivors of family violence, including women and children.”
“We’re very fortunate to be the beneficiary last year, and we’re also very grateful to continue into this financial year.”
She said the impact of the funding is already being seen in frontline services across Mackay.
“Through the funds raised last year, we’ve been able to recruit a therapeutic practitioner for Mackay.
“The community support from the Mayor’s Charity Ball helps us go that extra mile to provide essentials like food supplies, clothing, transport, and therapeutic supports for those in need.”
“These supports are absolutely essential for women and children escaping family violence and stepping into healing and recovery.”
Adding an extra layer of intrigue to the evening, guests can take part in an interactive “Assassin” mission game. Participants can purchase $100 mission cards revealing classified clues about the identity of a hidden assassin in the room, gathering intelligence before submitting their final guess. One successful sleuth will crack the case and win a generous Paradise Phuket Holiday Package.
Guests will enjoy a three-course gala dinner, accompanied by beer, wine and soft drinks throughout the evening, alongside live entertainment from Brisbane-based band Beccy & The Jets. The energy is expected to rise even further under the hosting of Australia’s much-loved comedian Dave O'Neil, who will take the stage as MC for the night.
O’Neil brings a career spanning more than three decades to the event, firmly established as one of Australia’s most recognisable and enduring comedic voices. With an extensive list of television and media credits including Spicks and Specks, Fisk, Utopia and appearances on The Project, he has built a reputation for sharp wit delivered with a relaxed, conversational style that consistently connects with audiences.
Returning to regional Queensland, O’Neil said he always enjoys performing in the north, praising both the atmosphere and the audiences.
“I’ve done a lot of gigs in Far North Queensland and I always enjoy the crowd.”
As MC, guests can expect humour grounded in everyday life, timely observations and spontaneous crowd interaction.
“I’ll talk a lot about parenting… some topical stuff, stuff going on in the world and in the region,” he said.
“I like to get involved… interact with the crowd, and have a whole lot of fun.”
Beyond the stage, the evening will feature live and silent auctions, casino-style fundraising games, raffles, prize draws, and dancing to close the night in style.
The Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball continues to stand as one of the region’s signature fundraising events, where sophistication meets generosity, and where a single evening helps create lasting impact across the community.
Tickets can be purchased via the MECC or ticketsearch.com with sales ending Wednesday 22 April at 12pm.

%20Dellacoma%20Rio.jpg)
Image: Dellacóma Rio
Airlie Beach Hotel is set to feature an incredibly exciting afternoon of magnificent Australian rock with four wickedly talented performers taking centre stage to commemorate ANZAC day. From 12pm til noon, Airlie Beach Hotel will host a bombastic Australian Rock Tribute Festival featuring the music of INXS, Cold Chisel, AC/DC and Divinyls, performed by these four powerhouse artists.
Dellacóma Rio – Australian INXS Show
Dellacóma Rio is the lead singer of eclectic heavy metal band Dellacoma. With years of professional experience and a brilliant career as powerhouse vocalist – he will be utilising his talents to imbue the superstardom of Australian legend Michael Hutchence as part of the Australian INXS Show.
“Airlie Beach has become like a second home to me and I’m super excited to be coming back. Look out!! I’m coming in primed and ready for an epic weekend!!”
Adam Spizzo – Let There Be AC/DC
Adam Spizzo is an amazing professional vocalist who has belted the punchy hits of Bon Scott and Brian Johnson with his tribute act Let There Be AC/DC. He will be joining the lineup with his monstrous vocals to perform only the best of Aussie classic rock.
“The Airlie Beach Hotel is a home away from home – not just for me but for every performer that will be rocking out this ANZAC day weekend! I cannot wait to rock in, rock up and rock out! I can’t wait to see you all there!”
%20Adam%20Spizzo.jpg)
Tara Graham – Captain Thunderbolt/Divinyls
A star of the Queensland music scene, Tara Graham will bring her musical chops to the star-studded lineup. Having performed tribute of Australian rock icons – the Divinyls, Tara also performs in her own group – Captain Thunderbolt and it is a pleasure to have her on board.
“I’m so excited to return to the Airlie Beach Hotel. The atmosphere is always electric, and you never know what’s going to happen on or off stage. The talent of the band is next level, and I look forward to joining the locals in the crowd to catch the other threesingers in action. It’s going to be a hell of a party.”

Richard Champion – Flame Trees/Barnes Forever/AFL Football Legend
Richard Champion’s list of accolades is not short. As a former professional AFL player, his occasional belting of Jimmy Barnes songs on the footy show led to a new calling post-AFL fame. Richard now specialises in singing Cold Chisel and Jimmy Barnes hits with his latest project ‘Flame Trees’. He was also lead singer of the supergroup - ‘The Filthy Animals’ which featured members from Mondo Rock, John Butler Trio and many other greats.
“This has to be one of my favourite venues to play at! This place has everything and the entertainment is as good a topper as the prawns on your surf and turf!”
Both Richard and Adam will perform their Chisel/Barnes - AC/DC tribute special night show prior big ANZAC feature – on Friday 24th April. Tara and Dell will provide a double headliner for their INXS and Divinyls tribute shows on Sunday 26th April – meaning there is no shortage of explosive rock over the weekend.
%20RichardChampion.jpg)
WHAT: ANAZAC Day at Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 25th April, 12pm – 6pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

The Whitsundays are eagerly anticipating the 2026 Show Ball, set to shine with its charming “Pretty in the Paddock” theme. The event will feature a range of fantastic raffle prizes, so be sure to secure your tickets via the QR code.
The event will feature special entertainment courtesy of Amber Lawrence and Shaun Diver. Amber is a 6-time Golden Guitar winner who has been nominated for 2 ARIA awards and Shaun is a well-known and much-loved local artist.
In addition to brilliant entertainment, the event will feature delightful catering with a decilous array of canapes served throughout the evening by the professional team at Aquava Boutqiue Catering.
Drinks available in the ticket price include a popular selection of spirits, beer and wine. In addition, a select range of cocktails will be available for purchase.
So that you too can do your bit for the environment, you can purchase reusable drinkware.
All funds raised go back to our local Showgrounds. The Showgrounds is a not- for-profit association who have a team of volunteers (many of whom have worked tirelessly for many years) to ensure that we can keep the facility maintained and operational for the local/regional community to share for events and gatherings. It has been the hub of our community for over 113 years and we would love to see it passed onto the next generation to continue to operate for the same purpose!
Tickets can also be purchased online or at the door on the night.
WHAT: 2026 Show Ball – Pretty in the Paddock
WHEN: Saturday 23 May, 6pm
WHERE: Proserpine Showgrounds
Dress Code: Formal/Pretty


April
21 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am
23 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am
24 Speed Networking, Lumos Café 7:30-8:30am
25 Australian Rock, ANZAC DAY, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm-6pm
26 Bowen Potters Group Market, Queens Beach, 3pm-6pm
28 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
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
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

An Australian comedy icon is set to perform at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Wednesday 13 May.
Luke Kidgell is a witty humourist known for his viral crowd-work interactions that have infamously fostered some fairly unusual yet hilarious encounters in the past. Despite not having much control over his impulsive thoughts, Luke insists that deep down he means well and this year he is on a mission to prove it.
After extensive touring across the US, Canada, New Zealand and Europe – Luke is returning home with his brand-new show – Good Intentions.
You may have seen him on the internet – now it’s time to see him in real life. Luke promises – he really does have good intentions.
Performance Warnings: This performance may contain adult themes and coarse language.
Head to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre website to purchase tickets.
WHAT: Luke Kidgell – Good Intentions
WHEN: Wednesday, 13 May, 7.30pm to 9pm
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

Friday 17th April
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
KCs: Retro Joe (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaeden McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)
Grandview Hotel: Michael Hayes (from 8pm)
Saturday 18 April
Airlie Beach Hotel: Whispering Jack (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
KCs: Matty Black (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Dan Ahri (2pm – 6pm)
Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Josiah Samuel (4pm – 7pm)
Sunday 19 April
Airlie Beach Hotel: Whispering Jack (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Noah Davis (2pm – 6pm)
KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: Ronny Croker (1pm – 5pm)
Sorrento: Simo Briley (1pm – 5pm)
Monday 20 April
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Tuesday 21 April
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Wednesday 22 April
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Jason Bull (from 8pm)
Thursday 23 April
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30-9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Cam Cusack (from 8pm)