Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Manyia Vale: Building Community Through Vibe Yoga Vibe Yoga Pilates was born from both intuition and a gap in the Whitsundays wellness scene. At the time, Airlie Beach had no infrared hot yoga or Pilates studio, despite the powerful benefits of these practices. Having already opened three studios on the Sunshine Coast, Manyia Vale knew the impact such a space could have on a community. The opportunity came unexpectedly. After leaving the Whitsundays, a former massage client reached out with a studio space. With no real plans to return, Manyia followed instinct and said yes—bringing hot yoga and Pilates to Airlie Beach. Nearly four years on, that vision continues to grow. Manyia’s journey began as a competitive runner from the age of eight, leading to marathons and triathlons before a serious hip injury changed everything. During recovery, she discovered original hot Hatha yoga. Despite her fitness, the practice was challenging—but transformative. Through consistency, she released physical tension and mental stress, gaining strength, clarity, and connection. This led to teacher training with Bikram Choudhury in the United States in 2000 and years of study across the world, always returning to hot yoga, alongside Pilates. For Manyia, yoga is not about flexibility or perfection—it’s about healing. It connects breath and movement to restore balance physically, mentally, and emotionally. “It’s never too late to start again,” said Manyia. “It’s sharing something so powerful because you feel it yourself. The most rewarding part is watching people transform. It’s not just about teaching yoga – it’s about holding space. It’s about helping people come back to themselves, find their true self, and heal their body and mind so they can live a healthier, more pain-free, amazing life.”
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Karen Hill Floral Design — 11 Years of Heart, Community & Growth For the past 11 years, Karen Hill Floral Design has been more than just a floral business — it has been built on passion, resilience, creativity, and community. What began as a love for flowers has grown into a trusted name, woven into the lives of so many people through life’s most meaningful moments. From celebrations and weddings to sympathy flowers and everyday gestures of love, every arrangement has been created with heart and purpose. Flowers have always been more than something beautiful. They tell stories, bring comfort, celebrate milestones, and say what words sometimes cannot. A New Chapter — Opening in Proserpine “Now, after more than a decade in business, I am incredibly proud to be opening a new store in Proserpine, Queensland. This is more than opening a shopfront — it is the beginning of an exciting new chapter. The new Proserpine store is a space created for the community — a welcoming place where locals can connect, share their stories, and find flowers designed with care and authenticity. This store represents growth, dedication, and the support of the people who have stood beside Karen Hill Floral Design over the years.” Built by Community “No business reaches 11 years without the support of its people. To every customer, friend, family member, and local supporter who has trusted and encouraged this journey — thank you. Your support has helped shape Karen Hill Floral Design into what it is today. This new store is not just mine. It belongs to the community that helped build it. Here’s to the next chapter in Proserpine, and many more years of creating beauty, connection, and unforgettable moments.”
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This week’s poem is from Suzy Gordon, a talented local artist and regular participant in the Whitsunday creative scene. Rainbow Lorikeet dusky confederation hot treat flame tree bough populous retreat configure, noise indenture, flight dread colour harvest swooning, cacophonous night
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On This Day 1986 April 24th. Chamber Of Commerce and Industry. This was successfully reformed in Proserpine, following co-ordination by Tony Drummond executive members of the Board were appointed. Tom Hill is the President. Shire Engineer Starts on May 1st. Mr. Bullock becomes the first contractual Engineer for the Shire. Field Day For Farmers. 120 Canefarmers met at the Proserpine Sugar Mill to discuss items of mutual concern/interest for example trash conservation ie harvesting cane without first removing leaves and tops. Harvesting equipment would have to be modified to harvest unburnt cane. Home Economic Dine Out. Nine High School Home Ec. Students enjoyed a dining exercise with their teachers at Angelo’s Restaurant to ‘study’ restaurant style food presentation in a delicious way. High School Marine Studies teacher Paul Hedgecock took his class to the pool to practise snorkeling skills for later use in the ocean. Hailey’s Comet On View. Les Bell from Jubilee Pocket said that tonight should be a good viewing night from 11pm to midnight looking quite different from when he saw it in 1910! Proserpine Primary School Captains: Nicole Churchward, Adam Smith, Jane Howard and Brett Buckley were presented with their badges at a special ceremony. Return To Paradise. Celia and Bill Staume, the first couple to be married on Hayman Island in 1958 returned to the Island having lived and worked in nine different countries since that happy day. Bloods Twin Win. Airlie Bloods won both A and Reserve Grade games against North Mackay on Sunday under new captain Neville Allen. They played ‘top football.’ Lindeman Island Remains National Park. Less than 2% of Queensland remains under national park protection so Proserpine Wildlife Preservation Society’s campaign to preserve the Island’s National Park status was a major victory. Homeflair Floorcoverings. Vynil, assorted colours $7.50 a linear metre. Buy now and save. Boxing. Airlie Boxing Club is growing quickly under the tuition of Danny Stewart. About 50 fighters from as far away as Cairns are expected for Saturday’s tournament at Airlie Allsports. Marina’s Planned.Visiting Minister for Water Resources, Martin Tenni inspected the sites of four proposed marinas in the Whitsundays. Local’s concern about indiscriminate developers was discussed. The decision to ‘nourish’ Airlie Beach with 50,000 cubic metres of sand should be delayed. Crossleys’Car Sales are in the top 10% of Holden dealers in Australia. Manager Tony Vitanza received an award for customer satisfaction. Clearing The Walkway. The Bicentennial Committee applauded the local community for much good volunteer work in clearing the walkway showing the spirit of the early pioneers. Whitsunday Guidelines: Three new Brownies have enrolled : Kate Thynne, Peta McAllister, and Kerryn Hurley. Swimming Club Championships. Trainer of the year was Marcus Mudie. Monthly improver was Michelle Perkins. Soccer: Whitsunday Knights beat Mackay Lions 5-2 Rugby League: Brahmans 20 beat Collinsville Miners 10 Junior Rugby League. Teams from 8 age groups Under 8 to Under 15 took on Collinsville with mixed success. Masses of other sport was played including: squash, tennis, rugby union, golf, bowls, basketball, dressage which we will try and mention next week. Not many people stayed at home.
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Friday 18 March
Conversations with Art
Third Friday of each month, 1:00pm to 2:30pm
Join in the free and enjoyable discussion led by Artspace Mackay staff as they look at images of traditional and contemporary artworks from gallery and museum collections from around the world.
Artspace Mackay
Sunset Sessions
Every Friday Evening From 6pm
Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.
Wake House Australia
Karaoke Under The Stars @ The Burb
Friday, 7:00pm to 11:00pm
Get amongst a family-friendly night of karaoke at The Burb.
Souths Suburban Bowls Club
Saturday 19 March
Falun Gong Classes
Saturday, 9:00am to 11:00am
Soak in the morning sun and enjoy the fresh air as you experience relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement. Falun Gong classes are a regular event at the Gardens.
Tropical Sun Lawn, Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Hostplus Cup Round 1 – Mackay Cutters v PNG Hunters
Saturday, gates open 10:45am
Get around game day and cheer on the Cutters as the Hostplus Cup squad clashes with the PNG Hunters! Junior squads take on the Northern Pride and the day wraps up with a battle between the Mackay Cutters Hastings Deering Colts and local team, Souths Sharks. Bring the family and watch your favourite players out on the paddock of BB Print Stadium.
BB Print Stadium
Sacred Kirtan Meditation
Saturday, 5:30pm to 7:00pm
Come for an experience that will transport you to a world of inspiration, peace and joy, far beyond the stress and worries of life. This heart-warming group meditation combines chanting/singing of sacred mantras with musical instruments and sweet, cruising melodies to soothe the soul. The experience of Kirtan is meditative and beautifully immersive, the leader sings the mantra and everyone sings it back. This spiritual connection through song makes for a unique experience like no other. Chris and Anna have recently relocated to Mackay from Adelaide and have been sharing Kirtan meditation with the community for many years. They look forward to connecting with you through this wonderful meditation practice.
Unity Yoga Ayurveda
Shades of Women
Saturday, 6:00pm to 11:55pm
Shades of Women is an inaugural gala event and a first for Mackay. It signifies the commencement of a fundraising endeavour like no other in a quest to provide support for women and their children affected by Domestic Violence. This event provides an opportunity to celebrate women and the strength they bring to the lives of so many, but also a time to bring about awareness and raise much needed funds for Domestic Violence. Money raised will be donated to Women’s Legal Services Queensland, who provide free legal and welfare help to Queensland women and their kids at risk from domestic violence.
Seabreeze Hotel
Beddy Rays
Saturday, 8:00pm
Since selling out their first headline tour and supporting Australian music legends Violent Soho in May, Beddy Rays have been biting their nails to get back on the road and bring their mosh-worthy, coastal-rock bangers to your hometowns of Sunny Queensland! Supported by French Press.
Seabreeze Hotel
Sunday 20 March
Photo Walkabout at the Botanic Gardens
Sunday, 9:00am to 11:00am
Do you love capturing interesting photos with your camera or smart phone? This month’s Photo Walkabout workshop is focussing on “What lies on the forest floor?”. Open to all photographers from beginners to advanced, it is a free activity for anyone to join. To book your spot, phone Kim on 4952 7321 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Sunday Live Music
Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.
Seabreeze Hotel
Didgeridoo Sound Healing
Sunday, 5:00pm to 6:30pm
Come and hear Rufus speak from real-life experiences and be immersed in sacred sounds of the Didgeridoo, crystal bowl, flute, vocals and medicine drum to reset your energy and find balance.
Glenella Community Hall
Bjorn Again – Mamma Mia! We Are Back Again Tour
Sunday, 7:30pm
iThe MECC Auditorium
Tuesday 22 March
BMA Kidspace
Tuesday, 10:00am to 2:00pm
Join local artists and performers for creative art activities designed for toddlers and their adults.
Artspace Mackay
Wednesday 23 March
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
The market is a showcase of our region’s amazting produce direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
Want to do something for yourself and something for the community? Then why not join With One Voice Choir in Mackay and surrounds.
Performing out in the Mackay community, the choir is aimed at providing pleasure and enjoyment, working with local disability groups, singing at retirement homes and respite centres, as well as preparing and performing its own concerts.
Choir Director Jennifer Bee said that the most common obstacle to people joining the choir is their false belief that they cannot sing.
“Fundamental to the With One Voice Choir is our strong conviction that every person can sing!” Jennifer said.
“We provide acceptance, encouragement and support for those people who lack confidence and help them find their voice.”
“One of the most satisfying parts of our weekly rehearsals is how people feel welcome knowing that we are all there to do the best we can, as part of a group, which loves to sing and wants to support our community.
The next concert is planned for the day before Mother’s Day, Saturday May 7th at the Sporting Wheelies Hall in Bridge Road East Mackay.
“The High Tea and concert will be an opportunity for families to celebrate with Mothers and Grandmothers,” Jennifer said.
Jennifer Bee also pointed to research that has now found the act of singing aloud is beneficial to our health.
“Study after study has found that singing relieves anxiety and contributes to the quality of life.”
“No matter what age you are or what your abilities are, singing offers opportunities to learn, grow and express who you are.”
With One Voice Mackay meets and rehearses every Thursday evening at 6.30 pm at the CQU University City Campus Building 2 Theatre 90-92 Sydney Street Mackay.
Potential new members are very welcome, so feel free to come along and give the Choir a try without obligation.
Enquires phone Greg at 0401 692 254 or Frank at 0427 530 774.
With One Voice Mackay is an excellent way to socialise and also to sing with a group of likeminded – and like-voiced - people
The favourite creative collective known affectionately as the Briefs Boys are back at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre this April, and this time they have a hills hoist in tow and are ready to air their Dirty Laundry.
The tight-knit group of representatives from the Briefs Factory, an Australian creative collective who produce and present evocative, physical performances, are returning to the Sugar City with their circus, drag, dance, burlesque, music, comedy inspired show ready to go.
With the ever-changing world around them, Briefs Factory have been dedicated to developing and touring their brand of award winning, genre defying, political party punk around the world, and are touching down in Mackay for a second time.
Led by Fez Faanana (AKA Shivanana) – director and co-founder of Briefs Factory - this brand-new party cabaret pegs a line-up of classic Briefs boys along with some new boys and toys in the basket.
These festival favourites promise a load of physicality, comedy, and showmanship, and none of it clean – so “turn your cycle to hot as you watch these boys tumble dry.”
After 10 years of selling out festivals worldwide and visiting Mackay back in 2020, the boys are ready to hit the MECC stage on the 2nd of April with more glitter stains and ballsy attitude than ever!
Get your tickets to the ultimate ladies’ night out at themecc.com.au for an 18+ event.
Meet the Brief Boys at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre this April
A notable selection of key Clermont characters will have their prolific lives showcased in a new exhibition in the Isaac region.
Clermont Historical Centre presents Faces of the Peak Downs which showcases a collection of stories from the first European settlers in the area to women paving their way in the saddle manufacturing industry.
Since Ludwig Leichhardt first traversed this area in 1845, the Clermont district or at the time, Peak Downs, has been home to an array of characters that contributed to its development.
The exhibition highlights identities like Jeremiah Rolfe who was the first European to settle in the Clermont area, establishing sheep runs and working the land, Oscar de Satge who named Wolfang Peak and established Wolfang Station, and Rose Harris who is regarded as Australia’s first female saddler.
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker said this year is worth visiting the centre especially as it took out silver in the best tourist attraction category at the 2021 Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards.
“This great local experience, run by locals working at Council and incredible volunteers, would not happen without their absolute dedication behind the scenes,” Mayor Baker said.
“Tourism is one of our most valuable industries in the Isaac region. It is worth more than $180 million a year and it directly employs 1000 people.”
This is a chance to explore, discover and jump back in time to learn the stories of the region’s harsh colonial era.
Faces of the Peak Downs exhibition will run to 17 December 2022.
Last year’s Back on Track exhibition which paid homage to country racing being an essential part of the social fabric of the Isaac region continues to be featured.
Clermont Historical Centre is located on Gregory Highway and is open Wednesdays to Saturdays from 9am to 3pm.
Admission prices are $6 for adults, $4 for pensioners, $3 children under 12 years and $15 per family with two or more children.
Jeremiah Rolfe and family circa 1876
Bowen artists get your pastels and paint brushes set, on the last Tuesday of every month local artist Mel Stone has been hosting Paint And Sip sessions at The Grandview Hotel.
The next tipsy painting gathering is set for March 29, and it’s your opportunity for a no judgement artistic journey helped by some red or white wine.
If you’ve been out of the loop, Paint and Sip is a relaxing, fun way to step into painting, where a resident artist takes participants step-by-step through painting a picture, portrait or otherwise.
With an easel, paint brush and a creative juice -preferably wine, although it can be coffee, tea, or beer – you can enjoy a no-pressure painting experience, with no painting experience required.
Last Month’s session was a grand success at the Grandview, with the wannabe artists showing their teacher their very best interpretation of shuttered blue window with plants below.
New and novice artists alike can find out more by contacting the Grand View Hotel.
25 seats are available for the sessions, which run $45 per person, and they’re a guaranteed blast – you might even discover a new talent.
Bookings are essential, so call the Grand View Hotel on (07) 4786 4022 to secure a seat for the next go around.
The Airlie Beach foreshore will fill with the sounds of chaotic battle next Saturday, but not between knights or Vikings, instead the long-standing feud between Jerry Mouse and Tom Cat will take to the screen.
The Tom & Jerry Movie will be playing for free at the Airlie Beach Foreshore screen on Saturday, March 19 at 6:30pm.
The Tom and Jerry movie pits the famous fighting pair against each other in another instalment of their continuing feud, this time in Manhattan.
Jerry, running from his long-time rival after an incident in Central Park, takes refuge in the Royal Gate Hotel, with Tom in hot pursuit
Tom soon finds himself hired to drive him away before the day of a big wedding arrives in this family fun film.
The 2021 released slapstick comedy is filled with familiar faces like Chloë Grace Moretz, Michael Peña, and even Ken Jeong – so there’s some fun for the parents, too!
Whitsunday Regional Council are inviting local parents and their kids along to this relaxed family night, so bring the picnic rugs, chairs and food and enjoy a night of entertainment under the stars.
Airlie Beach Foreshore Outdoor Cinema has been a hit with locals since its instalment and the upcoming screening is looking to continue the trend – make sure you’re arriving early to find yourself the best spot to snuggle up for the night with the family!
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