June

26^th Echoes of Pink Floyd - 60 Years of Pink Floyd, Proserpine Entertainment Centre  

28^th Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets 8am–1pm  

‍

July
8^th Cirque Nouvelle, Proserpine Entertainment Centre

23^rd Fire & Rain: The James Taylor Songbook, Proserpine Entertainment Centre  

25^th Whitsunday Mayor’s Charity Ball, , Proserpine Entertainment Centre  

25^th-26^th Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

30^th Your Song, Proserpine Entertainment Centre  

30^th-2^nd Aug Great Barrier Reef Festival

‍

Community Art Gallery, Proserpine
The Community Art Gallery showcases works and merchandise by local artists across a diverse range of subjects, styles, and mediums, including paintings, photography, ceramics, jewellery, textiles, sculpture, and handcrafted gifts.

‍

Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 9.00am – 4.00pm
Saturday: 9.00am – 1.00pm (new extended hours)

‍

Volunteers Wanted
The Community Art Gallery in Proserpine is seeking volunteers to welcome visitors and support daily operations. Shifts are flexible, running for 3.5 hours on weekdays or 9am–1pm on Saturdays. No experience is required – volunteers help greet guests, share information, and create a welcoming visitor experience.

Learn more: https://www.creativeconnectionswhitsunday.com/volunteer

‍

Whitsundays Writers Festival: Early Bird tickets closing!
Early Bird tickets for the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival close 30 June. Full-day tickets are $49 and include all sessions, two drink vouchers, a gourmet lunch box, and refreshments. Concession tickets are $39, children under 12 are free, and session-only tickets are just $10 each: https://www.whitsundayswriters.com/2026-programme-speakers/

‍

Markets This July

‍

Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets (Coconut Grove) run 28 June, 9 July, 16 July & 28 July, 8am–1pm, shocasing local artisans, makers, artists and food vendors whenever a ship arrives. Browse handmade gifts, original artworks, and local treats while supporting small businesses.

‍

Proserpine Community Market is on Sunday 19 July, 8:30am–12:30pm at Proserpine Showgrounds, featuring coffee, food, live music, and the Whitsundays’ only purely local craft market. Meet makers, shop handmade goods, and enjoy a relaxed community morning.  

‍

Get in touch!

This column welcome contributions from across the community. If you would like to submit a poem, creative writing piece, profile suggestion, event information, or share your creative story, please contact hello@whitsundayswriters.com

‍

This month, challenge yourself to experience something creative in the Whitsundays that you've never done before.

‍

·       Discover local talent at the Community Gallery in Proserpine.

·       Borrow a book and read something outside your usual genre.

·       Strike up a conversation with a local maker at one of the Whitsundays' markets.

·       Step into the Proserpine Museum and explore new stories.

·       Send a message to a local creative you admire and ask them a bold question.

·       Roll your sleeves up at a workshop.

‍

Better yet, take a friend, support a local creative and discover something new together.

‍

Then tell us about it.

‍

What did you discover? What surprised you? What inspired you? How did the experience change the way you see your community?

‍

Send a few sentences and a photo (if you have one) to hello@whitsundayswriters.com. Selected responses may be featured in a future edition.

‍

Get out, get curious and celebrate the creativity that's all around us.

‍

By Creative Connections Whitsunday

‍

Drawing inspiration from her life experiences and inner world, Trudy Hastings creates artwork that encourages both positivity and reflection. With an artist's eye for possibility, she finds inspiration everywhere, motivated to explore new ideas and creative directions.

‍

Trudy's contemporary style is shaped by the people, places and moments that capture her imagination. Her creative process often begins with a vision of the finished piece, although the journey to get there can take unexpected and rewarding turns. To nurture her creativity, she works from her lovingly named "Trudio", a calm and organised space where ideas can flourish.

‍

Known for her enthusiasm, originality and dedication to her craft, Trudy is a valued member of the Whitsundays creative community. Through her art, she invites viewers to see the world through a lens of curiosity, optimism and imagination.

‍

A collection of Trudy’s artwork is currently on display at the Bendigo Community Bank Display Space until 23 July. Visitors can also view and purchase several of her original artworks and artist merchandise at the Community Art Gallery in Proserpine.

‍

What: Community Creative Space
When: Monday to Friday, 9:30am–4:00pm (closed 1:00pm–2:00pm for lunch)
Where: Bendigo Community Bank branch, Whitsunday Plaza, Cannonvale

‍

By Glenda Brown, President, Creative Connections Whitsundays

‍

Creativity is often misunderstood.

Many people link the word to paintings, poetry, galleries or performance but it’s so much bigger than that. It's how we solve problems, share ideas, connect with others and makes sense of the world around us.

‍

In a time when so much of our lives is becoming faster, more digital and, in many ways, more isolated, creativity matters because it brings us together.

When someone joins a choir, attends a workshop, visits a gallery, writes a story, learns a craft, volunteers at a festival, or simply spends time making something with their hands, they're doing more than being creative. They're building confidence, developing skills, improving their wellbeing, and strengthening community connections.

‍

Research consistently shows that creative pursuits and participation in arts and cultural activities can reduce loneliness, support quality mental wellbeing, and foster a stronger sense of belonging. Creativity provides people a voice. It helps communities tell their stories, preserves identity, and celebrates what makes us unique.

‍

Here in the Whitsundays, creativity is all around us. It's in the Community Gallery, libraries, museums and archives. It's in our local markets, the live music venues, community festivals, school productions, exhibitions and workshops. It's in the work of artists, writers, performers, makers and the many magnificent volunteers who help bring cultural activities to life.

‍

Our arts are not separate from community life – they are community life.

‍

We enrich our daily experiences, support local businesses, attract visitors, inspire learning and help people feel connected to where they live.

‍

Creativity thrives when communities participate - and every one of us has a role to play.

‍

Learn more: https://www.creativeconnectionswhitsunday.com/

‍

Successful Show Despite The Drizzle. Large crowds braved the rain on the Saturday of the Show. Improvements such as the extended members’ lounge and the new toilet block added to the convenience as did the addition of four public telephones. However the spectacular Fourex Balloon only gave lifts to a lucky few late on Friday.

Cattle Quality Praised at Show. The judge said “They wouldn’t have disgraced any Royal Show in Australia.” Kenny Muller, BJ Valmadre and L. Camm were among prize winners.

Late Start For The Crushing. Good burning of the harvesting crop was possible so the delayed start was only minimal.

Dam Village To Begin. The contract for the building of the village for workers at the Proserpine Dam was let. Construction of the 45 metre high dam to store 500,000 megalitres of water would begin in early 1988.

‍

Illegal Homes. 59 illegal homes had been erected in Nellie Bay and adjacent beaches such as Jonah Bay. Squatters have been warned of the decision to remove the homes by the end of July as they were erected without authority.

Proserpine Historical Society Members Jan Maltby and Don Dinnie are appealing for copies of photographs for their future collection. Permission has been granted to microfilm all old Guardians for a future museum ‘if ever we have one.’

‍

Alan Dufty: Marathon Champion. Local wheelchair athlete Alan Dufty won the international marathon at Winnipeg, Canada in 2 hours 28 minutes, finishing 200 metres after taking the lead at 35 kilometres.

Distance Runner Passes Through Town. World famous marathon runner Tony Rafferty passed through town on a 1000 mile run from Bundaberg to Cairns on Tuesday morning.  

‍

Ambulance Contributions. Proserpine Centre has been informed that they must charge pensioners the following annual contributions: Married pensioners- $36.00, Single Pensioners- $24.00.

Apprentice Award. 4^th year mill electrical apprentice Stephen Curti won the Norman Bennett Bursary for the second successive year judged by T.A.F.E. on quality of work and study.

‍

Success For Top Local Horseman. Glen Gough has added to his list of successes with The Reg Brown Memorial Cloncurry Stockman’s Challenge. Both his horses performed well.

Happy Birthday To Elizabeth. 200 guests gathered in the Show pavilion for the 80^th birthday of longtime resident Elizabeth Allan. ‘Born in 1906, Elizabeth has seen the World progress from horse and buggy to man on the Moon.’ quoted chairman of the day George Orr.

‍

Proserpine Golf Championships Final Rounds this Saturday and Sunday.

Champion Show Flowers; Champion Orchid shown by Tom Pond, Champion Cut Flower Irma Borellini.

‍

To Live In The Whitsundays. The Committee of the W.C.D.A. decided that “The Whitsundays will soon be promoted as a place to live in, and a place to visit” Two information packages have been prepared to help sell the area as a place to live. Enormous amounts have been spent on tourism.

Baton Twirler Championships. Six local twirlers will head to Brisbane to attend the first State baton twirling Championships.

Contributed with thanks by the Proserpine Museum 

‍

Bowen State High School

‍

‍

38 Bowen High School debutantes stepped onto the dance floor with their partners at the 2026 St Mary's Catholic Church Debutante Ball, marking a milestone occasion in front of over 400 family members, friends and supporters.

‍

The annual event kicked off around 7.30pm, bringing together students from across the school community for an evening celebrating commitment, confidence and tradition.  

‍

Months of preparation culminated in a formal presentation, elegant dinner and dance program, with participants taking part in one of the region's longest-standing social traditions.  

‍

Thanks to the efforts of Raynee Bidgood and her team of volunteers, the ball came to life as couples, family and friends took to the dance floor, showcasing traditional favourites including the La Bomba, Swing Waltz, Gypsy Tap and many more.

‍

Principal Robert Harris of Bowen State High School attended the evening, marveling at the past and present debutantes whose dedication and involvement helped make the event such a memorable occasion.  

‍

As the evening drew to a close, the debutantes and their partners left the dance floor to a final round of applause, capping off a night that will remain a highlight of their school years.  

‍

‍

See all photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/bowen-debutantes-shine-at-st-marys-catholic-church-ball

Bowen Skate Park is open after undergoing maintenance as part of Whitsunday Regional Council's Asset Replacement Program. Photo source: Pexels

‍

Skate enthusiasts from across the region can rejoice, as the Bowen Skate Park is set to reopen this weekend following a week of upgrade works - just in time for the school holidays.

‍

Located on the corner of Santa Barbara Parade and Starboard Drive, Bowen, the popular facility underwent maintenance as part of Whitsunday Regional Council's Asset Replacement Program, with sections of the park temporarily closed for around 10 days while improvement works were carried out.  

‍

During that time, contractors replaced grinding rails on all grinding benches, as well as timber planks on two of the park bench seats.

‍

The upgrades are designed to improve safety, functionality and durability at one of Bowen's most popular recreational facilities. By investing in routine maintenance now, Council aims to extend the life of the park's infrastructure and ensure it remains a welcoming space for local skaters, scooter riders and BMX enthusiasts for years to come.

‍

With the works now complete, the skate park is set to fully reopen in time for the school holidays, giving local young people and visiting families the chance to make use of the upgraded facility over the break.  

‍

Whitsunday Regional Libraries are offering a jam-packed program of free activities this school holidays!

Kids can enjoy a range of creative and interactive experiences, including board game design, LEGO challenges, craft activities, gaming hubs, dinosaur discovery sessions and more!

With activities for all ages, our libraries are a great place for families to learn, create and have fun these school holidays. For more information, head to Council’s website or contact your local library.

A free 18+ Pride event will soon bring together live music, cabaret performances, and local art in a welcoming and inclusive space. Photo source: Shutterstock

‍

Rainbow Revival will light up the Gooseponds Sport & Recreation Club on Saturday 20th June, with an evening dedicated to pride.

‍

The free 18+ event will run from 7pm to 10pm at 74–76 Malcomson Street, North Mackay, bringing together live music, cabaret performances, and local art in a welcoming and inclusive space.

‍

Guests can enjoy performances from Sky-Blu and Mish N Possible, along with cabaret entertainment from Miss Tache. The night will also feature live art, with local creatives Buttercup from Shenanigans Art & Counter Kulture, and Cynthia Gregg painting live to music.

‍

Attendees are encouraged to dress in their brightest colours and join in a celebration of pride, diversity and community, with the event open to LGBTQIA+ people and allies alike.

‍

A range of community partners have supported the event, including Feros Care, Mackay Advocacy Inc, Gooseponds Sport & Recreation Club, Lotus & Lilly Designs, Divine Sound Alchemy and Anarchists Against Poverty.

‍

Gumleaf and Glitter will also host a stall on the night, showcasing pride merchandise and offering local businesses the opportunity to promote safe and welcoming spaces across Mackay.

‍

What? Rainbow Revival – Free Pride Event
Where? Gooseponds Sport & Recreation Club
When? Saturday 20^th June, 7-10pm

‍

A powerful new Australian drama exploring friendship, resilience and the hidden struggles behind everyday lives will make its world premiere at Kucom Theatre this September.

‍

Written and directed by local playwright Amy Jeffcoat, Sideline Family was originally developed through the Mackay Harvest: From Playwright to Stage Light program in 2025. Following its successful development, the production will take to the stage from 10^th to 19^th September 2026.

‍

Set around a women's netball team, Sideline Family follows a group of strangers brought together by a new season. Led by a former professional player turned coach, the women navigate challenges including grief, mental health, trauma, infertility, illness, and relationship breakdowns. As friendships deepen and personal struggles emerge, the team discovers that what begins as sport becomes something much more. A lifeline.

‍

Auditions will be held at Kucom Theatre at 11am on Sunday, 28^th June.

‍

Performers interested in being part of this moving ensemble drama are encouraged to attend.

‍

Audition packs are available via the Kucom website or Eventbrite

‍

At its heart, Sideline Family is a story about showing up for one another. By the final whistle, the score no longer matters. What matters is that they are still standing. Together.

‍

Season dates: 10th, 11th, 12th, 17th, 18th, 19th September at 7.30pm
Sunday 13th September at 2pm

‍

Saturday 20^th June

June Photo Walkabout  

11am

A creative morning of light, contrast, and imagination awaits at the Winter Solstice Photo Walkabout on Saturday June 20^th, from 11am to 2pm at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. Participants will explore “Shadows” in striking black and white, capturing the year’s longest silhouettes under the low winter sun. The session begins with a short discussion on shadow photography before moving into hands-on shooting across the gardens. Open to all skill levels, this free event invites photographers to experiment, observe, and create in a relaxed, collaborative setting.  

Meet at the Botanic Gardens Meeting Room  

‍

Sunday 21^st June

‍

World Dachshund Day  

8.45am

World Dachshund Day will be celebrated in Mackay this Sunday, inviting locals and their four-legged companions to a relaxed morning gathering at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, meeting near the playground at 8.45am. Participants can enjoy a gentle community walk through scenic surrounds, connecting with fellow dog lovers in a friendly outdoor setting. Afterwards, the event continues over coffee, offering a chance to unwind and socialise. It’s a light-hearted, feel-good activity designed to bring people and pets together in a vibrant community atmosphere.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

‍

Slade Point Community Markets

8am

The Slade Point Community Market returns this month, inviting locals to enjoy a vibrant morning at the Slade Point Community Gardens from 8am to 11am on the third Sunday. Visitors can explore handmade local stalls, fresh produce, food vans and coffee, alongside live music, yoga in the gardens, and children’s activities. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere designed to celebrate local creativity and connection. Bring a picnic blanket, friends, and a smile—dogs on leads are welcome to join the community buzz.

Slade Point Community Gardens 

‍

Winter Solstice Sunday Stroll

3pm

A Winter Solstice Sunday Stroll offers a peaceful pause in the heart of nature this Sunday June 21^st at 3pm, meeting at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens map outside the café. Guided by Garden Friends, participants are invited to slow down, breathe deeply, and experience the shortest day of the year through light, sound, and movement. This monthly walk encourages mindfulness, connection, and calm within green surrounds. Enquiries: 0436 331 009.  

‍

Monday 22^nd June

Well-Balanced Women workshop  

9am

A FREE Well-Balanced Women workshop will be held on Monday 22 June 2026 from 9am to 11am at 43 Shakespeare Street, East Mackay. Hosted by naturopath Jody Walker, the session explores hormonal changes across life stages and offers practical strategies for nutrition, lifestyle balance, and support through perimenopause and menopause. This child-free workshop provides a calm, informative space to reset and refocus wellbeing. Spots are limited, with registrations via Eventbrite.  

43 Shakespeare Street, East Mackay

‍
Tuesday 23^rd June

Entry’s Close For Mackay Art Society ‘Art On Show’.  
23^rd June is your last chance to enter your artwork to be displayed in Mackay Art Society’s ‘Art On Show’ exhibition, set to take place from 7^th August. Find entry forms and further information at mackayartsociety.com.au

‍

Wednesday 24^th June

The Mum Hub Walking Club  

10am

A weekly pram-friendly walk offers mums a relaxed space to reconnect and recharge with The Mum Hub every Wednesday at 10am. Designed with no pressure and no expectations, it’s all about fresh air, gentle movement, and meaningful connection with others who understand the journey. After the walk, participants can enjoy tea or coffee and a supportive catch-up at The Mum Hub. All ages are welcome, and mums can come solo or bring a friend for an easy, welcoming community experience.

Meet at: The Mum Hub, Shop 10 46 Mulherin Dr, Mackay Harbour

‍

By Catherine McAuley College, Mackay

He’s ineligible to buy a ticket in the amazing New Car Raffle!

‍

Why?... as a member of the Parent Engagement Group (PEG) and the organising committee, the rules do not permit.  After sadness there is acceptance. Somewhere out there amongst our College supporters is a lucky person and all they need to do is buy a ticket!

Excitement is building as Catherine McAuley College’s Parent Engagement Group launches its biggest fundraiser of the year;  a car raffle giving one lucky winner the chance to drive away in a brand-new 2026 Mitsubishi ASX valued at $34,990. Every ticket purchased has a 1 in 1000 chance to win so don’t miss out!

‍

One of the key reasons behind the PEG Car Raffle is to help fund projects, initiatives and opportunities that directly benefit the students of Catherine McAuley College and enhance the overall school community experience.

‍

Funds raised through initiatives like this help support resources, student programs, community events and improvements that may not otherwise be possible, Being a new school, it really is about creating opportunities for students to thrive;  both inside and outside the classroom; while strengthening the sense of connection and community within the College.

‍

The winning ticket will be drawn at the College’s highly anticipated Annual Trivia Night to be held on 23 October this year.

‍

Parents and community members are encouraged to get involved by purchasing their tickets and spreading the word. Every ticket purchased is not just a chance to win a car, but also a way for the wider Mackay community to invest back into the students and future of Catherine McAuley College.  

‍

To buy your ticket please click the link - https://www.raffletix.com.au/cmcmraffle2026

‍

When Haley Crofts launched Tailored Services, she brought with her nearly two decades of industry experience, a strong work ethic and a clear vision for delivering results for her clients that exceed the standard cleaning service.

‍

A finalist in the Mover of Mountains Business Person of the Year category at the 2026 Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce Best in Business Awards, Haley has built Tailored Services into an honourable local company known for professionalism, reliability and respected client partnerships.

‍

Her journey began in 2006 as a cleaner working at major mine sites in Mount Isa. Through determination and leadership, she quickly progressed into management roles overseeing cleaning operations before later managing teams in Brisbane. After returning to Mackay, Haley spent seven years leading a well-known cleaning company before taking the leap into business ownership alongside her husband.

‍

Today, Tailored Services is a family run operation servicing commercial, residential and educational clients across the Mackay region. The company has earned a reputation for working closely with clients to understand their individual needs and develop practical solutions tailored to each environment.  

‍

Under Haley's leadership, the business continues to challenge perceptions of what cleaning and maintenance services can deliver. By combining experience, innovation and strong relationships, she has created a company that not only keeps spaces looking their best but helps clients operate more effectively, making Tailored Services a standout in its field.

‍

As a finalist for Mover of Mountains Business Person of the Year, Haley Crofts continues to set the standard for leadership, service and innovation in Mackay's cleaning industry.

‍

Ground Breaker - Innovation Excellence - (sponsored by Telstra)

• Winner: Mackay Safety

• Finalist: IQ Solutions

• Finalist: DeckaDice

‍

Heart of Gold - Not For Profit Excellence - (sponsored by Frontrow)

• Winner: Crossroad Arts

• Finalist: Trudy Crowley Foundation

• Finalist: Project Pink

‍

Next Big Thing - Best New Business - (sponsored by SBB Partners – Accountants and Business Advisors)

• Winner: Bookish Burrow

• Finalist: DeckaDice

• Finalist: Dunn and Co. Hair Studio

‍

Legacy Legends - Best Family Owned Business - (sponsored by Community Bank Sarina)

• Winner: M & P Services

• Finalist: Wisely Group

• Finalist: Dave Griffith Electrical (DGE)

‍

It’s Not Easy Being Green - Environmental Excellence - (sponsored by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation)

• Winner: The Neighbourhood Hub

• Finalist: Wild Tribe Clothing Exchange

• Finalist: Hustle and Flo

‍

Mover of Mountains - Business Person Of The Year - (sponsored by CQUniversity Australia)

• Winner: Jade McAuley (Rebel Nation)

• Finalist: Haley Crofts (Tailored Services)

• Finalist: Desiree O’Neill (Mackay Child Care Centre)

‍

Small But Mighty - Small Business of The Year - (sponsored by Mackay Regional Council)

• Winner: iQ Solutions

• Finalist: Local Eyes Optometrists

• Finalist: Mackay Safety

• Finalist: Habitude

• Finalist: iQ Solutions

• Finalist: Nautical By Nature

‍