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.

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!”

‍

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 24^th April. Tara and Dell will provide a double headliner for their INXS and Divinyls tribute shows on Sunday 26^th April – meaning there is no shortage of explosive rock over the weekend.  

‍

WHAT: ANAZAC Day at Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday 25^th 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)

‍

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

‍

‍

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.

‍

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.”

‍

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.

‍

“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.

‍

“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.”

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

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

‍

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.

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

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  

‍

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.

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

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.

​

There was an unmistakable sense of belonging throughout the night.

​

A Community Effort

‍

​“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.”

​

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.”

‍

​A Night to Remember

‍

​“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.”

​

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

Contributed with thanks to Cannonvale State School.

‍

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.

‍

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

‍

‍

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.

‍

“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.

‍

“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.”

‍

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  

‍

‍

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!

‍

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.

‍

‍

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.

‍

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

‍