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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Flower Delight featured as the March exhibition at Sarina Arts Council’s Sarina Gallery, highlighting a wonderful selection of floral-inspired artworks. Visitors can look forward to new works arriving this April.

Photo source: Sarina Arts Council, Sarina Gallery

Friday 3^rd April

The Way Of The Cross

From 5pm

The community is warmly invited to gather at Bluewater Quay on 3 April at 5pm for The Way of the Cross, a reflective Good Friday event exploring the story behind one of Christianity’s most significant days. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair and settle in for an evening of familiar songs and shared reflection. The free event will feature nothing for sale, keeping the focus on the message of the day and the meaning behind the question, “Why is Good Friday good?” Everyone is welcome to come along and be part of the experience.

Bluewater Quay

Saturday 4^th April

Easter Carnival

From 9:30am

Families are invited to hop into the Easter spirit at the Easter Fun Hub this Easter Saturday, with a morning of free activities set to bring smiles to children and adults alike. Running from 9:30am to 1:30pm outside R.M. Williams, the event promises a festive atmosphere with Easter bonnet craft, face painting, balloon twisting and a fun Easter egg hunt. Children will also have the chance to meet the Easter Bunny. With no bookings required and plenty of family friendly entertainment on offer, the community is warmly encouraged to come along and join in the celebrations.

Caneland Central

Hop & Hunt Easter Festival Extravaganza

From 3pm

Families are invited to enjoy a festive afternoon by the water when Harbour Moon Markets joins forces with the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club for a community Easter celebration on Saturday, 4 April at 67 East Point Drive. From 3pm to 6pm, visitors can enjoy free children’s activities including jumping castles, face painting, balloon fun, an Easter egg hunt and photos with the Easter Bunny, while live music from Soul Vibes and more than 30 market stalls create a lively atmosphere. Food trucks, coffee, freshly made pizzas and pies will be available, with a free sausage sizzle for the first 200 people. Adult entry is $2, supporting the club’s Nippers program.

The Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club

Sunday 5^th April

Resurrection Sunday Dawn Service

5.15am

The community is warmly invited to gather for a Resurrection Sunday Dawn Service at Bluewater Quay at 5:15am on Easter Sunday, 5 April. The outdoor service will mark the Easter morning message of hope and renewal, reflecting the theme of turning darkness into glorious day. All are welcome to attend this early morning gathering by the river, offering a peaceful and meaningful way to begin Easter Sunday.

Bluewater Quay

Wednesday 8^th April

School Holiday Activities At The Botanical Gardens

From 9am

Families are invited to explore the beauty of Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens these school holidays with a fun self guided activity designed to get children discovering the plants and wildlife of the gardens. Activity sheets can be collected from the Visitor Information Centre between 9am and 3pm from Wednesday to Friday, 8 to 10 April. Young explorers can take part in an “I Spy” challenge featuring the garden mural and a leaf hunt that encourages a closer look at the fascinating shapes and textures found throughout the gardens.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

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What began as a simple idea to brighten a rail underpass in the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens has blossomed into a vibrant, educational landmark. The ‘Connecting Gardens Through Art’ project has transformed the tunnel along Nebo Road into a stunning showcase of the region’s native plants and wildlife, offering visitors both beauty and insight as they pass through.

The mural was made possible by the Mackay Branch of Native Plants Queensland – Society for Growing Australian Plants, which secured funding through the Regional Arts Development Fund. Local mural and botanic artist Kate Brunner brought the concept to life, supported by volunteer artists from Mackay’s Botanical Art Interest Group.

Plant species depicted in the mural include the Mount Blackwood Holly, Koumala Range Actephila, Mackay Cedar, and Leichhardt Tree. Local native wildlife also features prominently, including the Ulysses butterfly, platypus, bandicoots, Barking Owl, and Red-tailed Black Cockatoos.

Maya Harrison, chairperson of the Botanical Art Interest Group, played a pivotal role in the project.

She worked on finer details, including insects and spiders, and contributed to the background painting, such as the mountains and rivers.

Mrs Harrison highlighted the importance of representing Mackay’s unique flora.

“It’s really important because the Botanic Gardens is showcasing our regional plants. The mural connects two sections of the gardens and celebrates the forest and its native life,” she said.

The project began in August last year, with extensive preparation including cleaning the walls and applying an undercoat to ensure the paint would adhere properly.

“We thought it would take a couple of months, but once we got into the details, it just kept stretching out. We were here four out of seven days most weeks,” Mrs Harrison explained.

The mural has quickly become an interactive experience for visitors, with many stopping to admire the artwork and ask questions.

The initiative was a collaborative effort from the outset, led by Pamela Finger, who secured the grant and coordinated the participating groups.

“It’s fantastic to see the project from the application stage to fruition. Connecting the gardens through art has really brought the space together,” Mrs Finger said.

Today, the mural provides a colourful and educational pathway through the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the region’s natural beauty while enjoying an immersive artistic experience. It stands as a celebration of local flora, fauna, and community creativity, inviting everyone to stop, look, and learn.

For more information on the mural, visit Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens – Connecting Gardens Through Art.

Mayor Greg Williamson with volunteer artists Barbra, Maya, Kate, Julie and Pamela, who have transformed the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens tunnel into a vibrant showcase of local flora and fauna. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Weather is no longer a barrier at Sarina Art Gallery, where they officially opened its upgraded outdoor space featuring a new roof, made possible by a community grant of over $29,000 from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.

The opening allowed guests to view the gallery’s latest exhibition and experience the new covered space, which now provides a comfortable, protected environment for visitors.

The extension creates an all weather, sun smart area that allows the gallery to host workshops, exhibitions and performances year round, while also offering a welcoming place for the community to gather and connect.

“By supporting local arts and culture, we’re helping to build community capacity and enhancing Sarina as a place to live and to visit,” said Community Bank Sarina Board Chair, Karen May.

“This outdoor extension cover gives the gallery the opportunity to grow its programs and create more opportunities for people to come together and engage with the arts.”

Mary Ann Slater, President of the Sarina Art Gallery, said the new space has already made a significant difference.

“This project has transformed our outdoor area into a versatile, all-weather space,” Ms Slater said.

“We can now confidently plan workshops and events without worrying about the weather, creating more opportunities for people to come together, learn and be part of the gallery.”

The project was installed by a locally approved builder using eco friendly materials where possible, with ongoing maintenance scheduled in collaboration with Council to ensure long term durability.

Sarina Art Gallery is open seven days a week at Railway Square (Sarina Field of Dreams), near the Sarina Sugar Shed. To find out more about upcoming events, search ‘Sarina Arts Council, Sarina Gallery’ on Facebook.

0258 – (L-R) Kristina Douglas, Community Bank Sarina (CBS) staff member Josie Dahtler, CBS Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich, Sarina Art Gallery President Mary-Ann Slater, CBS Board Chair Karen May, and CBS staff members Di Owens and Kylie Schulze at the Sarina Art Gallery opening celebration.

0090 - Sarina Art Gallery’s new all-weather outdoor area, made possible by a community grant of over $29,000 from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank. Photos supplied

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This week’s poem is from Kaye Cronan. Kaye said that it is for all those people who have moved to a regional area following Covid and have realised they don’t need return to a crowded and noisy city.

THE TREE CHANGE

Let’s get away from the stress of city life,

Buy a block and leave the traffic and strife.

We’ll implement a long dreamt of plan

Being self-sufficient on our bit of land.

There’ll be livestock and chooks all around

Vegies in the garden and crops in the ground

A place with water to make everything grow

If we work really hard, we’ll make it all go.

There’ll be sacrifices; we will live in the shed,

A bit rough and rustic but there’s a comfy bed.

Who needs a McMansion out here in the scrub?

There’s no stress now, away from the city hub.

Out here in the sticks there’s no one to care

When you garden topless and let the boobs air

Life is much slower and that’s just fine

We have time to enjoy a sun downer wine

Just plodding along at our own peaceful pace

It’s good to be away from the city rat race.

We’re not young anymore or so we’ve been told

We’ll just make it all happen before we get old!

Kaye Cronan

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March

27 FOGs Regional Tours Bowen Gala Dinner, Queens Beach Hotel, 6pm-9pm

27 Sydney Drag Queen presents WICKED Drag Bingo, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7pm-10pm

27 Speed Networking, Lumos Café 7:30-8:30am

31 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am

April

1 Social Seniors, Cannonvale Library, 9.30am

3-11 Sail Airlie Regatta

7 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am

11 & 12: SOS ABBA Tribute, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5:30pm

14 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

16 Morning Melodies – The Beggers sing the Seekers, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11am-12:30pm

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

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

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

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Christine Anu is set to join the lineup for the 2026 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival!

Christine Anu’s acclaimed career spans more than 27 years and includes 17 ARIA nominations, as well as the platinum-selling album Stylin’ Up. She is best known for her signature song My Island Home, originally written by Warumpi Band, which she performed at the Closing Ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.

Beyond music, Anu’s career spans film, television, and theatre. Her screen credits include appearances in Moulin Rouge! and The Matrix Reloaded, while on stage she has performed in acclaimed productions of Rent and Little Shop of Horrors. Her television roles include appearances in The Alice and Outland.

Her involvement in the 2026 festival is particularly meaningful, as her daughter, songwriter Zipporah, participated in the 2025 festival, performing alongside The Voice winner Chris Sebastian and Golden Guitarist Brad Butcher.

This year, Christine Anu joins an outstanding lineup of award-winning songwriters, instrumentalists and composers, including Mark Sholtez, Francesca de Valence and Karen Jacobsen, with more to be announced.

Supported by the Whitsundays Arts Festival, the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival has been a cultural drawcard for the region since launching in 2022 and was nominated this year in the Queensland Music Awards for Festival of the Year (People’s Choice Award).

Each year, leading Australian songwriters travel to the Whitsundays to take part in a diverse range of workshops and activities designed to nurture talent across the region.

The Songwriting Summit invites local and interstate writers to be mentored by resident artists through immersive masterclasses, skill-building workshops, and a Summit showcase where participants share their work.

The festival culminates in the intimate Concert & Conversation on Saturday, 6 June at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, where resident songwriters perform and share the stories behind the songs created during the residency.

The festival was co-founded by Queensland songwriters Karen Jacobsen and Francesca de Valence to provide regional songwriters with professional development opportunities often only available in major cities.

Since its inception, the festival has hosted an impressive roster of artists including Wendy Matthews, Toni Childs, Vika and Linda, and Graeme Connors.

The Whitsundays Songwriter Festival creative residency runs from 3–7 June 2026, with the Songwriting Summit and Concert & Conversation taking place at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on 6 June. Tickets are available via Humanitix.

The 2026 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival is made possible by the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund, which supports the arts in regional and remote Australia. The festival is presented in partnership with I Heart Songwriting Club and the Whitsundays Arts Festival.

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Photo supplied

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Friday 27 March

Eat Street and Live Music

6pm

Enjoy a vibrant day out at the upcoming Eat Street event, featuring live music, great food and family-friendly fun. Attendees can relax to the sounds of Jamesley while savouring a variety of food and drink options on offer. There will also be plenty to keep the kids entertained, including free activities and a gymnastics airtrack to burn off some energy. With something for all ages, the event promises a lively atmosphere and great night out!

Blue Water Quay, Mackay

City Heart Easter Fun

12pm

Families are invited to celebrate Easter with a fun-filled afternoon in the Mackay City Heart, hosted by Harper Bee and Mackay City and Waterfront. Running from 12pm to 5.30pm, the free event features an Easter egg hunt through local businesses, starting at Harper Bee with a clue-filled stamp card. Children can collect eggs before heading to the corner of Wood and Victoria Streets to meet the Easter Bunny. The afternoon also includes games, a colouring competition, Easter craft activities and a relaxing space for families to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

City Heart - 79 Victoria Street, Mackay

Saturday 28 March

Family Fun Day Colour Fun Run

2.30pm

Families are invited to Andergrove for a vibrant day of colour, fun and community spirit at the Family Fun Day Colour Fun Run. Hosted by Monty the Monstar, the event marks the launch of 2026 fundraising efforts for a new playground and upgraded play spaces across the school grounds. With plenty of laughter, colour and family-friendly activities, the day promises an energetic and enjoyable experience for all ages while supporting an exciting cause for the local school community.

DV Fundraiser – Broken Ballerina Inc

9am

Broken Ballerina Inc will be hosting a community fundraiser at Mount Pleasant Centre near Jamaica Blue, raising vital funds to support those impacted by domestic violence. Shoppers are encouraged to stop by and show their support, with Pete’s Caramel Slice, Jules’s Cupcakes and BBI merchandise all available for purchase. The event offers a meaningful way for the community to come together, enjoy some sweet treats and contribute to an important local cause.

Mount Pleasant Centre near Jamaica Blue

Monday 31 March

Seniors Chair Yoga

10.45am

Seniors aged 55 and over are invited to take part in the Northern Beaches Seniors Chair Yoga program, offering a gentle and accessible way to stay active, improve wellbeing and connect with others. Held on Mondays at Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia, the sessions focus on mindful movement, stretching and relaxation, all from the comfort of a chair. With a welcoming atmosphere, morning tea provided and a pay-as-you-go cost of $10, the program is ideal for those seeking a safe and social approach to fitness.

Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia

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Huge crowds turned out for the hotly anticipated Dancing with Heart 2026 last weekend, and they were not disappointed.

Loved ones, colleagues and sponsors watched on proudly as participants showed off their hard work, and sparked joy across the audience, dancing routines inspired by iconic performances, from Flashdance to Burlesque.

The amateur dancers became stars of the stage as they represented companies across Mackay, with contributors raising over $90,000 for the My Hospital Foundation, a local organisation dedicated to supporting patients tackling difficult health journeys at Mackay Hospital and Health Service.

1. Charity dancers braved the stage and raised life-changing funds

Whopping $90,000 Raised at Dancing with Heart

On Friday 20^th March, audiences at the MECC were wowed by Dancing with Heart’s fundraising showcase, where local businesspeople laced up their dancing shoes and gave the performance of a lifetime.

The dancers stepped and shimmied out of their comfort zones, hitting the stage to vie for the winning spot with routines developed with choreographer Dolly Louw and the talented dancers from Fame Talent School.

The event raised over $90,000 for the My Hospital Foundation, an amazing achievement made possible by the dancers, sponsors and attendees.

James Bailey from Wallace & Wallace took home the title of overall winner with an energetic routine set to Huey Lewis & The News’ Hip to Be Square. He also swept the award for highest fundraiser, raising a whopping $20,000 just on his own.

The people’s choice winner was Michael Kerr from Haymans Electrical, with an inspiring routine to Believe by Cher. All performances were exceptional, with the event cementing itself as a highlight of the Mackay community calendar.

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1 - Michael Kerr representing Hayman Electrical.
2- The seasoned pros backing the amateur dancers.

3 – Michea Kerr, Dirk Nuegebauer & James Bailey.

4 – Dancers from Mackay Fame Talent School provided amazing support.

5 –Chelsea Byrne, Tégan McGovern, Dolly Louw,  Sharon Johnston, Janine Jacobson.

6 - Janine Jacobson from Channel 7.

7 - Sharon Johnston from DBCT.

8- Winner James Bailey surrounded by supporters

9 – Dirk Nuegebauer cheered on by the crowd.

10 – James Bailey’s winning performance. Photo source: Facebook

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