Emily has already received waves of positive support regarding her project, hearing stories from inside the four walls of a Queenslander home from across the state. Photo source: Queenslander Houses

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If your walls could talk, what would they say? Emily O’Brien recently took to social media asking residents to answer that very question, inviting locals to share their memories, photographs and personal histories tied to an iconic Queenslander home. Emily hopes to document the lived experiences inside these homes through a self-published book, focusing on the everyday moments that often go unrecorded.

Emily’s passion for preserving Queenslander stories was sparked when she discovered a house for removal in the small locality of Massie in the Southern Downs. After meeting the descendants of the man who built it and hearing how he constructed the home by dismantling two others and transporting them by bullock dray, she realised just how easily these histories could be lost, and how important it is to capture them before they disappear.

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At its heart, her project will work to preserve voices that might otherwise be lost to time.

“It feels like it has become a duty to safeguard the stories, so they aren’t lost to the passage of time and to give the houses and families a legacy,” said Emily.

“There would be so many houses and families out there whose stories have already been lost, and I’d love to make a difference.”

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Rather than focusing on architectural perfection, Emily’s interested in the emotional connection people have with their homes, whether they’re “a weathered diamond-in-the-rough, or a polished gem”, she wants to hear every story.  

“I haven’t had any two stories that are the same, and while there’s no type of story I’m after, it’s definitely the more intimate memories I’m trying to capture, rather than another history textbook,” she added.

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“Perhaps what people remember growing up in the house, or their relative may have built the home back in the day by milling the timber themselves. Many people have even bought one of these old homes and have restored it and are therefore carrying on that legacy for years to come. It could be stories of what life looked like inside the home and how it changes throughout the generations.”

Emily’s project will largely focus on regional and remote communities where Queenslander homes have long been part of the cultural and social fabric.  

“I’m focusing on the regional and remote areas in particular, because these houses are generally situated so far away that people may not know they exist to begin with,” Emily explained.

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“The challenge with these homes isn’t just preserving their stories but finding them in the first place.”

With an intentionally inclusive approach, Emily warmly encourages anyone with a story to tell, or even those who know someone else whose story deserves to be shared, to reach out to her via emailing trumby03@gmail.com.

“I'm hoping to find stories of the everyday Australians who are our unsung heroes. They're the stories that matter most. They're the ones we need to know about.”

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Bowen venue, 360 On the Hill, will celebrate its first anniversary on 2 May from 6pm, marking a year of delivering a modern, relaxed dining experience with quality food, friendly service and stunning views.

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The milestone event promises a laid-back, cocktail-style evening, complete with sunset views, live music, drinks and nibbles.

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Guests will be welcomed with a glass of sparkling on arrival, followed by a selection of cocktail-style bites and access to a full bar — making it the perfect way to toast a successful first year.

WHAT: 360 On the Hill 1 Year Anniversary

WHEN: Saturday 2 May, 6pm

WHERE: 360 On the Hill, Bowen

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On Sunday, April 26, the Bowen Potters Group will host a vibrant community market on the foreshore of Queen’s Beach from 3pm to 6pm, offering an early celebration of Mother’s Day.

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Visitors can expect a lively afternoon, with a range of additional arts and craft stallholders joining the Bowen Potters Group, alongside a variety of food vendors serving hot dogs, loaded potatoes, doughnuts and coffee.

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The event will also feature a special Mother’s Day raffle basket, with tickets set to go on sale soon.

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The Bowen Potters Group is dedicated to creating a welcoming space for locals to learn, create and connect through clay, while also fostering community spirit. The market promises a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere — a classic country-style event filled with good times and memorable moments.

WHAT: Bowen Potters Group Community Mark

WHERE: Queen’s Beach, Bowen

WHEN: Sunday 26 April, 3pm to 6pm  

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Literary talent knows no age limit, and the 2026 Whitsunday Writers Festival is opening the door to the region’s next generation of storytellers. This year’s festival is not just for published authors — it’s for dreamers, students and emerging voices ready to share their creativity.

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As part of its mission to foster a love of reading and writing, the festival has announced a dedicated Under 18s category in the Heart Awards Short Story Competition.

Entries are now open and will close at 11:59pm on Friday, 17 July.

Young writers have the chance to compete for generous cash prizes, with $1,000 awarded for first place and $500 for the runner-up.

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Applicants are invited to submit a short story of any genre between 1,000 and 3,000 words. Each entry must also include a logline of up to 25 words and a brief author bio.

Full submission details and eligibility requirements are available on the Whitsunday Writers Festival website.

WHAT: Whitsunday Writers Festival

WHEN: Sunday 13 September, 10.30am – 4.30pm

WHERE: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Ave, Airlie Beach

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The spirit of community was on full display last month as the Cannonvale State School oval was transformed into a vibrant hub of laughter, lights and festive cheer for the annual Easter Carnival. From 5pm, the grounds came to life, welcoming families from across the region for an evening that will be remembered as a highlight of the school year.

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There was an unmistakable sense of belonging throughout the night.

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A Community Effort

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​“An event of this scale doesn't happen by accident. The success of the night is a direct reflection of the tireless dedication of our incredible volunteers,” said a P&C spokesperson.  

“From the early morning setup to the late-night pack-down, these individuals donated their time and energy to ensure every guest had a safe and seamless experience. To the parents, teachers, and friends who cooked, manned stalls and coordinated logistics your hard work is the heartbeat of our school.”

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The P&C also extended a heartfelt thank you to their supporting community contributors.  

“Your investment in our students and our facilities including our ongoing efforts toward the new playground shade structure shows just how much the Whitsunday business community cares about its future generations.”

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​A Night to Remember

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​“Most importantly, thank you to everyone who came along. Seeing the oval filled with smiling faces made every bit of planning worthwhile. Your presence and enthusiasm turned a school fundraiser into a true community celebration.”

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“ From your P&C we would like to say from the bottom of our hearts Thank You.”

Contributed with thanks to Cannonvale State School.

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Cannonvale and Airlie Beach’s iconic Bicentennial Boardwalk is getting its final upgrade, with the third stage soon to be completed. Works on the section spanning from the Airlie Beach Lagoon to Coral Sea Resort will begin on Monday 27 April and run through to late June.

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A detour via Mazlin Street and Hillcrest Avenue will be in place during the scheduled works period.  We look forward to delivering a wider boardwalk with new durable decking, creating a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone.

Conversation flowed and ideas were shared at the Bowen Business Networking Event on April 10^th. Photo supplied

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Picking up momentum as a relaxed, easy-going way to build a professional network, the Bowen Business Networking Event attracted ten business owners this week for a morning of conversation and connection.

The event was the third of its kind, after the network was launched in February this year by Berny O'Connor from Be Efficient Administration Services. Berny began the event as she sought local connections after moving from Airlie Beach at the end of 2025.

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“After a friend, Kath Barker, started a similar networking event in Cannonvale, I thought it would be a fantastic opportunity to start one in Bowen and connect with like-minded business owners in the community, meeting once a month to get out of the house, have a coffee, network and talk about business,” Berny said.

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“This month we had ten guests attend our event at Kevla Espresso & Health Food Bar and it was a great morning spent connecting with other local business owners from Bowen and the surrounding Airlie Beach area. Some guests travelled from Airlie Beach and Collinsville for the event.

“I always run a light agenda where, if guests feel comfortable, they can share with the group anything about their business — who they are, what they do and the people they would like to connect with. I also allow some time at the end of the meeting if guests would like to talk to the group about a particular topic or something that is coming up for them at the time. As these events have now been going for a few months, we have been able to establish a rapport with other business owners and the conversations flow naturally.”

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The meetings are held on the first Friday of each month at a rotation of local cafés.

The next will be held on Friday, 1 May at Le Sorelle Coffee House Bowen at 7:30am, with more information available on Facebook in the Bowen Business Networking group.

What: The Bowen Business Networking Event

When: Friday 1st May at 7.30am

Where: Le Sorelle Coffee House, Bowen  

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The beloved Bowen Summergarden Theatre has officially been listed for sale after 64 years of ownership. The theatre is best known through its owner – Bowen legend Ben De Luca, who has owned the cinema since 1964, when he took over the family business at the age of 28.

Since then, the theatre has been host to some of the 20th and 21st centuries’ greatest films.

Across its long tenure, the theatre has cemented itself as an important place in Australian cinematic history.

One of its most significant moments was when Bowen was scouted by highly acclaimed film director Baz Luhrmann for his film ‘Australia’. During filming, Ben De Luca formed fruitful friendships with Luhrmann and stars Hugh Jackman and Nicole Kidman. This led to the Summergarden Cinema being used as the venue to test raw footage from the film.

Another highlight came in 2018 when Ben De Luca was named Queensland Cinema Pioneer of the Year by the Society of Australian Cinema Pioneers.

The Summergarden Theatre was originally constructed in 1948 and was initially built as an open-air auditorium. It even had a dirt floor!

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The De Lucas installed a stage facility in what is now the main auditorium for live theatre performances. This allowed the theatre to become a major venue in North Queensland for Australian and overseas artists, known for its quality performances by travelling talent.

The Summergarden Theatre operated as a single-auditorium picture theatre until 1995, when the De Lucas constructed a smaller, second cinema to create a twin cinema complex. This enabled them to screen movies more frequently.

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The theatre has been listed as part of the Whitsunday Local Heritage Register and is viewed as a place of historical significance.  

Over the years the cinema has become a local icon, a cross-generational institution, forming a special place in many hearts, developing with the times and transcending each era with grace.

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A place for first dates, family outings and much more, the cinema was known for bringing people together in a shared love of movies. At its helm, Ben De Luca, has always graced the halls, welcoming familiar faces and greeting strangers like they were friends.

The Summergarden Theatre is not just a local cinema in Bowen – it is a cultural and historical landmark of North Queensland. The community no doubt has immense gratitude for the efforts of Ben De Luca and eagerly anticipates the future of this incredible place.

Get ready to “Twist & Shout” as Beatlemania On Tour brings its internationally acclaimed production to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Sunday 26th April 2026 at 7.30pm, for one night only.

Since its launch in 2009, the Australian-based show has built a formidable global reputation, selling out performances across North America, Europe, South Africa, the Middle East, Asia and New Zealand. After a decade away from Australia’s east coast, the production is now returning with a high-energy tribute to the music that defined a generation.

Audiences can expect a two-hour audio-visual spectacular featuring more than 40 of the greatest hits by The Beatles, performed live in their original keys with meticulous attention to detail. Replica costumes, period instruments and theatrical lighting combine to recreate the look and sound of the 1960s, capturing the spirit of the world’s most influential band.

The setlist reads like a greatest-hits time capsule, including classics such as Hey Jude, All You Need Is Love, Yellow Submarine, Let It Be, Twist & Shout, Yesterday, Come Together, Get Back, Help!, Eleanor Rigby and Here Comes the Sun, among many others.

Behind the production is a cast of seasoned musicians, including Zachary Coombs, who performs the role of John Lennon. Coombs’ connection to the music runs deeper than most. Named after Zak Starkey, son of Ringo Starr, he grew up in a musical household influenced by jazz, rock and 90s pop. He first picked up the guitar as a teenager before discovering The Beatles at 15 after receiving their 1 compilation album.

“I fell in love with every single song,” Coombs recalled, describing the moment as a turning point that led him to explore the band’s entire catalogue.

After years touring internationally as a solo cruise ship performer, Coombs joined Beatlemania in 2014, later stepping into the role of John Lennon. He has also performed as Paul McCartney and George Harrison in earlier productions, drawing on what he describes as “the magic within the music itself.”

He says the key to portraying Lennon lies in understanding the balance of musicianship and attitude.

“If the musicians are having fun on stage, it becomes infectious,” Coombes said.

The show also features fellow performers portraying Ringo Starr and the rest of the iconic line-up, with attention to every musical and visual detail.

For Coombs and the cast, the appeal of Beatles music lies in its universality, with songs built on themes of love, peace and connection that continue to resonate across generations.

“This is more than a concert,” organisers say. “It’s a celebration of music history.”

Tickets are available now.

WHAT: Beatlemania On Tour

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

WHEN: Sunday 26^th April, 7.30pm

CAPTION: Since its launch in 2009, the Australian-based show has built a formidable global reputation, selling out performances across North America, Europe, South Africa, the Middle East, Asia and New Zealand. Photo supplied

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Airlie Beach is set to come alive with the unmistakable sound of one of Australia’s most beloved musical legacies, as acclaimed tribute artist Mike Vee brings his celebrated Whispering Jack Show to the Whitsundays for two special performances this April.

For locals and visitors alike, this is a rare opportunity to experience the magic of John Farnham’s music in a relaxed, coastal setting.

Mike Vee has spent nearly two decades perfecting his tribute to Farnham, earning national recognition for his powerful voice and authentic stage presence. Many will remember his standout appearance on Australia’s Got Talent, where he was praised as “the closest I’ve heard to John.” Backed by a dynamic seven-piece band, Vee delivers a high-energy performance that captures the spirit and emotion of Farnham’s iconic catalogue.

The Airlie Beach shows promise more than just music — they’re a celebration of Australian culture and nostalgia. Audiences can expect all the classics, from Age of Reason and Pressure Down to A Touch of Paradise and the timeless anthem You’re the Voice. The 2025 production also introduces a refreshed playlist and new storytelling elements, offering deeper insight into Farnham’s remarkable career.

Bringing an event of this calibre to Airlie Beach highlights the region’s growing reputation as a hub for live entertainment. It’s the kind of show that invites the whole community to come together — whether you’re a lifelong Farnham fan or simply looking for a great afternoon out.

With its uplifting atmosphere and singalong favourites, this is more than a concert — it’s a shared experience. Pack a chair, bring some friends, and get ready to relive the soundtrack of a generation right here in Airlie Beach.

WHAT: The Whispering Jack Show – A Tribute to the Music of John Farnham, 2 FREE SHOWS
WHEN: Saturday April 18 & Sunday April 19, 2:00pm – 5:30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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Photo sourced

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Lead singer-songwriter and one half of Australian pop duo Bachelor Girl, Tania Doko will join the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival from 3–7 June 2026, bringing her distinctive voice and songwriting expertise to Airlie Beach.

Tania joins Christine Anu, Mark Sholtez, Francesca de Valence, and Karen Jacobsen as they come together to collaborate on new works, host a songwriting workshop for developing artists, and a live performance at Whitsunday Sailing Club.

Known for her dynamic and versatile vocals, Tania was voted by the public into the top 300 of Triple M's Greatest Singers of All Time list.

Best known as one half of Bachelor Girl alongside musician and arranger James Roche, Tania rose to international prominence with the hit single Buses and Trains. The track became one of Australia’s most recognisable pop songs, achieving Top 10 chart success in Australia and New Zealand, earning multiple ARIA nominations, and is listed as one of most played Australian compositions on Radio Down Under over the last 20 years.

Bachelor Girl’s double platinum, ARIA Award-winning debut album produced a string of hits including Treat Me Good, Permission to Shine, and Buses and Trains, cementing Tania’s place as a defining voice in Australian pop music.


“Tania’s career spans both major commercial success and creative collaboration with some of the biggest names in the industry, which makes her an incredible mentor for our Songwriting Summit participants”, said festival co-founder Francesca de Valence.

This is incredibly exciting news for a festival that is shaping up to be spectacular.

WHAT: Whitsunday Songwriters Festival

WHERE: Airlie Beach

WHEN: 3^rd - 7^th June

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Photo supplied

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Crochet and Conversation

9am

Drop in for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation with a friendly group of Northern Beaches locals at the Beachfront Bar and Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re an experienced crafter, a beginner, or simply keen to enjoy a chat over coffee. Bring your own crochet tools or borrow from the communal yarn box. The gathering focuses on connection, creativity and sharing experiences, with participants sometimes working on community projects or their own creations. There’s no need to RSVP — just look for the table with the yarn and come along.

Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia Esplanade.

Community Jam At Family Flow

6pm

Families are invited to head along to the Community Jam at Friday Flow for an afternoon of fun, music, and family friendly activities. Children can enjoy free activities including the Gymnastics Airtrack, giving them the chance to bounce, tumble and burn off some energy. Live music from Jamesley will set the atmosphere, creating a relaxed community vibe for the evening. Food and drinks will also be available, making it a great opportunity to catch up with friends, bring the family along, and enjoy a lively local gathering. Everyone is welcome to come along and join in the fun.

Blue Water Quay, Mackay

Saturday 11^th April

Monthly Breast Cancer Support Group

10am

The Mackay Breast Cancer Support Group invites breast cancer patients and survivors at any stage to join their monthly support meeting. The session runs from 10:00am to 12:00pm in the Botanical Gardens Meeting Room, with roadside parking along Lagoon Street. The morning includes introductions, a confidential sharing and support session, and morning tea with coffee, tea, and water provided. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small share plate and, optionally, wear something pink. This is a free event. To join, RSVP by clicking “Going” and mark your diary.

Botanical Gardens Meeting Room

True Street Cars meet – Rural View

6pm

Car enthusiasts are invited to the next True Street Cars meet at Rural View, gathering outside The Cheesecake Shop and the McDonald’s car park. Attendees are encouraged to bring their cars, catch up with fellow enthusiasts and enjoy the atmosphere. Organisers are reminding everyone to be respectful, as surrounding businesses will still be operating, including Woolworths which remains open until 6pm. Visitors are asked to be mindful of customers and staff while attending. The meet aims to bring the local car community together for another strong turnout and an enjoyable evening.

Rural View, outside The Cheesecake Shop / McDonald’s car park

Sunday 12^th April

Tropical Treats and Orchard Tour

11am

The Rare Fruit Club invites anyone interested in discovering and tasting rare tropical fruits to join their April meeting from 11am to 3pm. The session will be held at a property in Mount Martin in the Pioneer Valley, featuring an orchard tour led by the host. Attendees can also take part in a raffle with garden-related prizes and bid on member-propagated plants at auction. For the address and directions, contact Kaye on 4947 5890 or Julie on 0429 002 018.

Mount Martin, Pioneer Valley – contact for further details

Monday 13^th April

Free School Holiday Lifesavers Program

11am

The NextGen Lifesavers Program returns to SuperKids Aquatic Indoor Swim School, running over three consecutive days from Monday, 13 April, 11am to 1pm. This program teaches young people aged 8–15 water safety, lifesaving skills, and confidence in the pool. Participants must be able to swim 10 metres unassisted and be comfortable in water 1.2 metres deep. Open to the public, not just swim school members, the sessions are delivered by the SuperKids Aquatic Mackay team in collaboration with Royal Lifesaving Queensland. To secure a spot, call 0490 834 345.

109 Paradise Street, Mackay

Tuesday 14^th April

Walk n Talk Book Club in the Gardens

8am

The Botanic Gardens Book Club invites book lovers to combine reading, gentle walks, and social connection in the beautiful gardens. Members meet fortnightly to discuss a new title, enjoy light exercise, and stay for coffee and conversation. Each month, participants pick up a book at the start, share thoughts mid-month during a walk, and review the title at the end while discovering the next read. Meetings are held in the Botanic Gardens Meeting Room (opposite the café) on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, February to November. Participants should bring sensible walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle. To join or find out more, contact the Libraries on 4961 9387 to book a spot.

Botanic Gardens Meeting Room (opposite the cafe)

Thursday 16^th April

Coastal Kids – Dunes Harbour Beach School Holiday Event

9am

Coastal Kids is back at Dunes Harbour Beach for a free, family-friendly school holiday event. On Thursday, 16 April, from 9 AM to 12 PM, families can enjoy outdoor games, kids’ face painting, giveaways, and the ever-popular Aussie sausage sizzle. HitFM’s Jake will be broadcasting live from the event, capturing all the excitement. Parents can grab a free coffee while the kids play. The event is held at Dunes Harbour Beach on Sol Drive, next to the Community Square. Join the fun, make new memories, and connect with your community at this fantastic free local event, proudly presented by Urbex.

Dunes Harbour Beach

Artspace Mackay’s latest exhibition Tom Moore: Natural Oddity received huge acclaim from visitors this week.

As the exhibition drew to a close, competition winners were announced for the Natural Oddity drawing competition and winning designs were transformed into one-of-a-kind sculptures.

The work on display was that of Tom Moore, a glass artist who creates characters that blur the boundaries between lifeforms; fairytale, abstract, colourful figures designed to “defy gravity and to melt the coldest heart”.

Working in collaboration with photographers, animators, and his wife Rosie, Tom creates elaborate scenes akin to dreamscape dioramas, presenting playful and unsettling reflections on nature and technology.  

The exhibition challenged attendees to partake in a drawing competition, with winning drawings set to be turned into glass sculptures themselves, for the participants to keep and treasure. With junior, senior and open divisions, the competition attracted thousands of entries from across the region.

“It is truly one of the most impressive exhibitions I’ve seen,” said Mayor Greg Williamson.

“Congratulations to Ivy, who was announced as the Junior Division winner. It’s fantastic to see young creative talent in our region being recognised and celebrated.”


1 – Mayor Greg Williamson with winner of the Junior drawing competition, Ivy Wong and her family. Photo supplied

2 – Tom Moore turned Ivy’s design into a wonderful sculpture for her to cherish. Photo supplied

The vibrant spirit of live entertainment is set to shine once again across the Whitsundays, as the high-energy “SOS” tribute show brings the unforgettable music of ABBA to both locals and visitors this April. With two performances scheduled across the weekend, this event is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of community, nostalgia, and the region’s growing cultural scene.

For a destination like Whitsundays and the ever-popular Airlie Beach, events like this play a vital role in keeping the local economy and social calendar thriving. Tourism may be the backbone of the region, but it’s experiences like live music shows that give visitors a reason to stay longer, spend more, and connect with the area on a deeper level.

“SOS” delivers a dazzling tribute to one of the world’s most beloved pop groups, combining iconic hits with the glitter and groove of 70s disco. With elaborate costumes, spot-on vocals, and infectious energy, the show offers a chance for audiences to relive the magic of a golden era in music. More importantly, it creates a shared experience—bringing together residents, hospitality workers, and tourists alike on the dance floor.

Community events like this also highlight the Whitsundays as more than just a scenic getaway. They position the region as a lively cultural hub capable of hosting quality entertainment, helping to attract future acts and build a stronger arts presence. For local businesses—from restaurants to accommodation providers—the ripple effect is significant, with increased foot traffic and a boost in weekend trade.

As the region continues to grow and evolve, embracing events like the “SOS” ABBA tribute ensures that the Whitsundays remain not only a beautiful place to visit, but an exciting place to be. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or simply looking for a fun afternoon or evening out, this is one event that promises to have the whole community saying, “Thank you for the music.”

WHAT: The Australian ABBA Tribute Show: SOS

WHEN: Saturday April 11 and Sunday April 12, 2pm-5.30pm

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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Photo source: Facebook

Elise Dunckis is this weeks winner, on the theme of Planet Earth. She took this wonderful photo of an incoming storm at  Byerwen Coal Mine, Suttor near Glenden.

Next week’s theme is “Street Life”, and budding photographers can enter on the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook Page.

Photo contributed with thanks to the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Group.

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