Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Friday 20 March Dancing With Heart 6:30pm A night of entertainment with a purpose, Dancing With Heart returns on Friday 20 March, bringing local personalities to the stage for a fun-filled dance competition. Guided by professional choreographers, participants will perform to raise funds for the My Hospital Foundation. Guests can enjoy dinner, vote for the People’s Choice Award and help support better outcomes for local patients and families. Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre Saturday 21 March New Moon Ultra “Off the Beaten Track” Trial Run Series 6am Test your endurance at this unique overnight trail running event held under the March new moon. Athletes can choose from 6km, 36km or 72km distances, with races starting every hour from 6pm through to 6am. Prize money is up for grabs, and participants will take on exclusive trails only open for this event — making it a one-of-a-kind challenge for runners of all levels. Rowallan Park Dads and Bubs Baby Bounce 10am Dads are invited to bond with their little ones at this fun and interactive Baby Bounce session. Featuring nursery rhymes, songs and playful activities, the session supports early language development from birth to walking age. It’s a great way to connect, create special memories and support your child’s growth. This is a free event, but bookings are essential. Dudley Denny City Library Autumn Orchid Show Saturday 8am – 4pm & Sunday 9am – 2pm The Mackay & District Orchid Society will host its annual Autumn Orchid Show on March 21–22 at the Senior Citizens Centre on Macalister Street, featuring a stunning display of flowering orchids alongside plants and gardening supplies for sale, including pots, potting medium, tags and hangers, with raffles and refreshments also available; the event runs from 8am to 4pm Saturday and 9am to 2pm Sunday, with a $2 coin entry, and further information is available by contacting President Noel Acton on 0409 637 384. Senior Citizens Centre, Macalister Street Rotary Charity Wine Dinner 5:30pm Enjoy an elegant evening of fine food and wine at the Rotary Charity Wine Dinner on Saturday 21 March. Featuring a five-course degustation with wine pairings, the night also includes a wine auction, raffle and lucky door prizes. Proceeds support charities assisting women and children impacted by domestic violence. Guests can expect a memorable night of dining, giving and community spirit. Harrup Park Country Club Sunday 22 March Cuppa With Your Neighbour – Northern Beaches 9am Connect with your community at this free “Cuppa with Your Neighbour” event on Saturday 22 March at the Northern Beaches Community Hub. Enjoy a complimentary coffee while meeting locals and making new connections in a relaxed, friendly setting. Proudly supported by the Mackay Regional Council, this welcoming event is open to everyone — whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident. Northern Beaches Community Hub Tuesday 24 March Walk and Talk Book Club 8am Combine a love of reading with the outdoors at this unique walking book club set in the Botanic Gardens. Meet fortnightly for relaxed walks, chats and book discussions, with a new title to explore each month. Stay after for a social coffee and connect with fellow book lovers. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, sun protection and water for this enjoyable, wellbeing-focused community activity. Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Wednesday 25 March Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam 6pm Enjoy a night of live music and laid-back vibes at the Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam on Wednesday 25 March at the Seabreeze Hotel. Featuring acclaimed pianist Andrew Farrell, the evening kicks off with a performance before opening the stage for a community jam session. Free entry, with dinner bookings recommended. 72 Pacific Esplanade, Mackay Thursday 26 March Wine Society March Event 6:30pm Wine lovers are invited to the first Wine Society event of 2026 at The Dispensary Mackay on Thursday 26 March. Guests will enjoy an evening of exceptional wine tastings paired with a specially designed menu, hosted by Graeme Connors. Open to both new and returning guests, this relaxed event promises great wine, food and company. The Dispensary Mackay
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The PCYC’s Awakening Spirits 2026 moved audiences on Wednesday 11 March with touching stories told through dance. An audience of more than 1000 was drawn to watch 200 performers in a sold-out session at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre. Awakening Spirits is an annual performance that brings together young people from 13 schools across Mackay, who take part in PCYC's Cultural Arts in Dance program. Since beginning in 2022, the audience has rocketed from just 175 people to a sold-out audience at the convention centre this year. The piece performed was ‘The Waterhole’, a concept and story developed by PCYC Queensland’s First Nations Coordinator and the man behind Cultural Arts In Dance, Patrick Thaiday. It is inspired by the magical stories of The Myths and Legends of the Torres Strait, a book written by the late Margaret Lawrie. The story begins with Tilly, a white sulphur-crested cockatoo, who watches as a plume of smoke rises from the canopy of the Australian outback bush lands. Indigenous warriors and hunters from communities conduct a cultural burn – a land management practice refined over thousands of years. From her vantage point, Tilly observes the hunters moving alongside the fire’s perimeter, tracking animals displaced by its flames. As the story goes on, the waterhole, long a point of convergence for countless species, begins to change. Tilly notices a dark, viscous substance appearing beneath the surface. Drawn by concern she descends to investigate. As her feet touch the water, the substance adheres to her feathers releasing harsh toxic fumes that engulf her feet. She takes flight only to be flipped over by the weight of her wings. Her bright plumage darkens rapidly, and her beak blackens under the spreading poison. When Tilly rises again, she is no longer the white cockatoo she once was. Transformed by the dark waters, she takes form of a willy wagtail – a creature associated with omens, messages, and transitions. This metamorphosis positions her within a larger conflict, linking her fate to forces that extend far beyond the waterholes edge. Now known as Willy the Wagtail, she becomes a bearer of warnings and stories, navigating a world where ancient myth and emerging threats collide. When the story of ‘The Waterhole’ ends, all performers returned to perform a choreographed dance to The Seekers song, I am Australian. We are one, but we are many And from all the lands on earth we come We'll share a dream and sing with one voice "I am, you are, we are Australian" The bright smiles, excitement, and emotion from the performers did not leave many dry eyes in the auditorium; the room filling with a feeling: this is what we want our Australia to be. Contributed with thanks to PCYC Queensland’s First Nations State Partnerships Manager Michael Cedar 1-4 - Spirits were high as Mackay’s young dancing stars took to the stage. Photos supplied.
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Follow the Sun’ to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music Xavier Rudd, Mental as Anything, The Whitlams and more on first lineup announcement for November 2026 The call is out for fans of Xavier Rudd to ‘Follow the Sun’ to the 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music from November 6-8. Set to arrive straight from a European festival tour, the popular Australian singer-songwriter says in addition to his much-loved catalogue of hits, a few surprises are in store for the Whitsunday audience, hinting: “There will be some new music at this show, which will be played for the first time in Australia”. Having visited Airlie Beach briefly on previous Australian tours, Rudd is already familiar with the region’s scenic beauty, but this will be his first time playing its signature event, dubbed a ‘party in paradise’ and the ‘ultimate music holiday’. “From the photos I’ve seen, the festival setting is amazing,” he said. “My music is definitely a celebration of our natural world, so a place like Airlie feels especially aligned with songs like ‘Follow the Sun’. “These are the kinds of shows I love, and hopefully, weather permitting, we can actually pull down the tent and play under the stars!” Equally as famous for his unwavering commitment to social and environmental activism as he is for his extraordinary gifts as a musician, the significance of playing at a destination known as the ‘Heart of the Great Barrier Reef’ isn’t lost on Rudd. “I’ve been lucky to witness some of the good work that people are doing in the world of reef regeneration and that’s inspiring,” he said. “Hopefully we can continue down that path.” Also urging festivalgoers to ‘Live it Up’ in Airlie Beach is beloved Australian band Mental As Anything, whose performance will form part of a historic 50th anniversary tour, comprising a limited number of exclusive festival appearances and select metropolitan headline shows. Original member and iconic pop artist, Reg Mombassa, is promising fans a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience the band’s timeless hits live once more, and celebrate their unique blend of songwriting, artistry, and performance flair. “We’re known for being a party band, so the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is a perfect fit,” he said. In total agreeance that there’s ‘No Aphrodisiac’ quite like it are The Whitlams, whose frontman Tim Freedman says the band is thrilled to be one of the festival’s headliners for 2026. “I’ve been wanting to return to the Whitsundays for decades and now we have the chance,” he said, adding: “it’s a great line-up, music lifts the soul, and we rock!” Other additions to the first line-up release include The Radiators, Adam Harvey, 19-Twenty, Skinny Living (UK), Little Quirks, The Mason Rack Band, The Wayward Suns, Loonaloop, Salt & Steel and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2025 Passport to Airlie competition winners Monroe. Tickets are on sale now at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au costing $325 for a three-day pass, or $1100 for a VIP package, both including entry to the opening and after parties that bookend the main event. Ends Media Enquiries: media@airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au / 0402 126 461
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On Monday 16th March, North Queensland–raised Judah Kelly attended the 98th Academy Awards in Los Angeles, where the short film he starred in, The Singers, was awarded an Oscar. The film tied for the win with another short film, in an Oscars occurrence that whilst rare, is indeed possible. This is a huge achievement that represents years of hard work, building craft and nurturing talent; Judah has no doubt made the community incredibly proud. Born in Townsville, Judah attended school in Bowen where he took part in various school choirs, an experience that inspired his musicianship and developed his performance capabilities. He continued his secondary education in Mackay before attending the Junior Academy of Country Music in Tamworth (NSW). Judah auditioned for the X Factor in 2012 and 2014. Despite not finding success, he was not deterred, deciding to audition for The Voice in 2017. After singing ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ in a blind audition he made it through the finals, where he became the official winner of the sixth season. His newest achievement is receiving the Oscar as one of the stars of short film The Singers, which received an award for Best Live Action Short at 98th Academy Awards. Directed by filmmaker Sam Davis, the film is an 18-minute musical comedy which centres around a spontaneous singing competition that breaks out amongst a group of random patrons in a dive bar. The film is based on the 1850 Ivan Turgenev story of the same name. Prior to the academy awards, the film had already won 35 awards across 50 film festivals in 2025. Judah’s inclusion in the film came out of a unique casting process. Rather than hiring actors through traditional means, filmmaker Sam Davis spent months scouring the internet for authentic voices he believed would bring the story to life. As a result, Judah was sought out for his raw vocal talent. “At first they emailed me to ask me to be in the film and I don’t act so I thought it was just a scam”, Judah said in an interview to Channel Nine’s Today Show prior to the ceremony. “They were very persistent with getting me to act. Then I found out everyone was a first-time actor and we all thought it was a scam. It turned out they did want us for a film – it’s about men and vulnerability”. Following the victory, Judah took to Instagram to express his joy. “We don’t even know how to act. Our film just won an Oscar!” The film tied with another short feature marking only the seventh time in Oscars’ history that a category closed with two winners. This is a fantastic achievement, and Judah should be incredibly proud of his efforts. He has certainly made communities across Bowen and Mackay immensely proud. Captions Judah Kelly, local legend fresh from Oscar win. Photo sourced: Facebook
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Get ready for a night of powerhouse vocals, infectious energy, and unforgettable country charm as Vixens of Fall take the stage at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) on Saturday, 2nd August 2025.
Hailing from Queensland’s tropical north and now based in Brisbane, these three bold sisters—Nina, Wren, and Lulu—bring their signature blend of country-rock with a splash of sass and soul. Known for their heartfelt lyrics, magnetic stage presence, and fierce sisterly harmony, Vixens of Fall are blazing their trail across the Australian country music scene.
Their rise has been impressive. From taking out the Battle of the Bands at the Tamworth Country Music Festival to sharing stages with the likes of Melody Moko and The Wolfe Brothers, the Vixens are no strangers to the spotlight. They were also named “Most Popular Independent Country Music Band” at the 2021 Independent Country Music Awards.
This live show at PEC promises to be an energetic celebration of their journey, packed with new music, fan favourites, and a few surprises. Their songs, filled with passion, life, and the spirit of the north, are guaranteed to have you tapping your boots and singing along.
Don’t miss your chance to experience the sweet, fiery magic of Vixens of Fall live. Grab your tickets, bring your friends, and enjoy a night where country music meets heart, soul, and unstoppable energy.
Book now — this is one show you won’t want to miss!
WHAT: Vixena Of Fall
WHEN: Saturday, 2 August
TIME: 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street, Proserpine
TICKETS:Tickets: Adult $39 | Concession $36 | PEC Members $34
July
11 Matilda followed by Grease, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm
12 NAIDOC Week Family Fun Day, Bowen Soundshell Santa Barbara Parade, 10:00am-2:00pm
13 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
13 Proserpine Community Winter Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am
15 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm
19 Tassal Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Races between Port of Airlie & Cannonvale Beach with the Race Precinct at the Sound Stage on the Airlie Foreshore
20 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
22 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm
23 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.
26 2025 Mayor's Charity Ball, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 5pm - 12am, $250
27 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am
29 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm
Friday 11th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Sing On Social (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Troy Morrison (from 8pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)
Saturday 12th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Fleetwood Mac Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Sing On Social (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dallas Steele (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Sugarlips (1pm – 6pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)
Sunday 13th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Rock'N' The Country (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Sing On Social (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Troy Morrison (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Kieran McCarthy (2pm – 6pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)
Monday 14th July
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)
Tuesday 15th July
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Wednesday 16th July
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Thursday 17th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Robbie Williams fans, get ready—Australia’s top tribute act is heading back to the Whitsundays. Louie Lee Feltrin is set to perform his crowd-pleasing show at the Airlie Beach Hotel for the sixth time, and he couldn’t be happier to return.
“I love the venue. I love the people. I love the energy," he said.
"Everyone's in a good mood, there's a sunny disposition and everyone's happy.”
Coming from Melbourne, Louie joked that his own mood lifts just stepping off the plane. He said in Victoria the weather is freezing, people are miserable and stepping into the Airlie Beach Hotel will definitely improve his mood.
Louie’s path to tribute fame began nearly two decades ago after appearing on a Channel Nine show. He said he used to perform at nightclubs or events and somebody from Channel Nine told him he looked like Robbie Williams and asked if he would like to be on the show.
After knocking the request back a handful of times, Louie finally said yes and he had a ball.
It was the public response that set his career in motion. “I got a lot of enquiries afterwards, people were wanting to book me for various charity events and functions. Everything grew from that.”
As Robbie's music has changed, the show has changed over time too and Louie says he’s grown to love Robbie’s music deeply.
“I've loved the way he's grown over the years as a songwriter and as a musician," Louie added.
"I get to travel a bit, which is great, I get to come to Airlie, it's fantastic.”
Fans can expect some surprises in the setlist. During the last performance at Airlie Beach Hotel, Louie noted that Robbie's swing music went down extremely well.
During this upcoming performance Louie will be performing more swing and he can't wait.
“That's my background, I grew up in musical theatre and singing jazz. So for me, it's nice to go back and do what I really love doing.”
Robbie has also released new songs and Louie is hoping everybody knows them.
Of course, Angels will be in the mix.
“I love doing that, because you can see everyone's reaction to it. Angels resonates with people from all ages," said Louie.
"It's a song that touches a lot of people on different levels."
His final word to the fans? “Just come down, say, G'day, and enjoy the show."
"I can't wait to get back there, sing some of the new stuff, show off the new outfits and fingers crossed people will enjoy it.”
Catch Louie live at the Airlie Beach Hotel soon, don’t miss this electrifying celebration of Robbie Williams’ greatest hits.
WHAT: The Robbie Williams Experience
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 26 July (2pm - 5.30pm) & Sunday 27 July (2pm - 5.30pm)
The Great Barrier Reef Festival is all about community, colour, and creativity — and you can be part of the fun! Whether you’re a business, school, sporting club, community group, or just a bunch of mates, there’s an event with your name on it.
Night Markets & Food Stalls
Showcase your delicious eats or handmade goods and be part of the buzzing festival atmosphere along the foreshore.
Revvin’ the Reef Car Show
Got a classic, quirky, or custom ride? Roll into the crowd’s favourite car display and show off your pride and joy.
Rotary Street Parade
Join the Main Street showstopper! March, dance, drive or glide your way through Airlie in the most colourful event of the year.
Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta
Build it, paddle it, and try not to sink it! A wild and hilarious race of handmade rafts — made from recycled materials and full of personality.
Whitsunday Life Newspaper Window Dressing Competition
Let your creativity loose! Dress your shopfront with reef-themed flair and help bring the town to life for festival week.
Ready to join in? Registrations for all events are open now!
Go to the Get Involved tab on www.greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au to register or sign up to be a volunteer
After weathering a challenging year in 2024, the Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival is returning in 2025 with fresh energy, renewed spirit — and a heartfelt call for community support.
Thanks to a groundswell of local encouragement and passion, the festival is launching the “Your Reef Festival” campaign — a rallying cry for the Whitsundays to come together and help shape the future of this cherished event.
“The 2025 festival is truly ‘Your Reef Festival,’” said Festival Chair Margie Murphy.
“It’s about shared ownership, celebrating our unique connection to the reef, and ensuring this special event continues for years to come. It's a gift – not a given – that our little community hosts the world’s only Great Barrier Reef Festival.”
A not-for-profit initiative run by a dedicated team of volunteers, the Great Barrier Reef Festival thrives on community partnerships, business sponsorships, and grassroots support. Whether you’re a local business, individual, or organisation, there are many meaningful ways to get involved:
How You Can Help:
To get involved or learn more, email info@greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au
The Great Barrier Reef Festival Announces 2025 Street Parade Registrations Now Open!
The Great Barrier Reef Festival is thrilled to announce that registrations are now open for the 2025 Street Parade!
This year’s festival will take place from August 1st to 3rd, with the ever-popular Street Parade set to light up Airlie Beach Main Street on Saturday, August 2nd at 5:00 PM.
2025 Theme: “Coral Kingdom”
Festival organisers invite the community to immerse themselves in the magical underwater world of the reef with the 2025 theme, “Coral Kingdom.” Whether inspired by coral castles, sea creatures, or vibrant marine life, participants are encouraged to get creative and bring the theme to life in bold, imaginative ways.
Parade Details:
Date & Time: Saturday, August 2nd, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Main Street, Airlie Beach
Entry Types:
Walking groups
Vehicle floats
Combination entries
Entry Fees:
Free for not-for-profit organisations and sponsors
$50 for business entries
Prizes Will Be Awarded For:
Best Business Entry
Best Not-for-Profit Entry
Most Creative & Wacky Design
Registration Deadline:
Entries must be submitted by Wednesday, July 30th. Please note that all vehicles must not exceed 12.5 metres in length and must be accompanied by two walkers for safety. In support of environmental sustainability, the use of balloons is not permitted, and participants are strongly encouraged to use recyclable and eco-friendly materials in their designs.
How to Register:
Participants can complete their registration via the official Street Parade Registration Page. For enquiries or assistance, the organising team can be contacted at parade@greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au.
The Great Barrier Reef Festival looks forward to celebrating community spirit and marine magic in this year’s vibrant parade. Organisers can’t wait to see the “Coral Kingdom” come alive in the heart of Airlie Beach!
Take part in the Rotary Street Parade this year!
The call is out to the Whitsunday community to enter the raffle for a four-night, self-skippered ‘bareboat’ charter, and help keep the Great Barrier Reef Festival afloat.
For the price of just $25 a ticket and with all proceeds donated to the event – ensuring it remains free, fun, and accessible for all – one lucky winner and up to nine shipmates will get to set sail on the trip of a lifetime around the Whitsunday Islands, aboard the luxe Leopard 40 Catamaran, Regina Whitsundays.
Valued at over $5,000, and with the boat far from being ‘bare’, the prize includes not only the four-day, four-night private charter itself, but additional snorkelling gear, stand-up paddle boards, Starlink WIFI, and all safety and navigation equipment supplied.
As an incentive to buy more than one raffle ticket, three will be discounted to $60, with five available for $100.
The raffle will be drawn on Sunday, August 3, at the 2025 Great Barrier Reef Festival closing event.
For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au or follow the links on the GBRF and Regina Catamaran Whitsundays Facebook pages.
About: The Catholic Church is the largest Christian denomination with over 1.4 billion believers worldwide. The Pope, its supreme leader and head of the Vatican City, has passed away. Without time to mourn, Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with presiding over the conclave to elect a new pope. Over 100 powerful candidates from around the world gather, and the secret voting begins behind the doors of the Sistine Chapel. As the votes are split, Lawrence's anguish deepens as he is confronted with the numerous conspiracies, discrimination, and scandals simmering beneath the surface. And just before the birth of the new pope, a major incident breaks out that shakes the Vatican under high security...
Cast: Ralph Fiennes, John Lithgow, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini
Reviews:
Peter Bradshaw The Guardian: Ralph Fiennes is on sumptuous form as the deeply troubled Cardinal Lawrence at the centre of a murky Vatican plot. The result is a high-camp gripper, like the world’s most serious Carry On film. 4/5
Stephen Romi The Australian: What unfolds as the cardinals go to war with each other… is as tantalising as a murder mystery. The candidates become suspects, leaks happen, and questions arise about who is telling the truth. 4/5
For more information, visit: www.filmartsmackay.weebly.com/
What: Next film night: Conclave
When: 7:30pm Friday 11th July
Where CQ Conservatorium of Music Theatre, CQU Ooralea Campus Building 21.
Tickets: www.trybooking.com/DCCRU
Keep the kids entertained and engaged with a fantastic line-up of events happening across our region. From creative workshops and outdoor adventures to movie screenings and hands-on activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy this school holiday season.
Friday, July 4
Garden Friends Drop-In Activity – Secret Lives of Leaves
10am
Families are invited to the Botanic Gardens for a series of leaf-focused activities, including hunts, drawing walks, watercolour art, and leaf creature crafts. This free, family-friendly event is designed to encourage outdoor exploration and creativity. Also available on Saturday, July 5.
Botanic Gardens Meeting Room
Movie Matinee
2pm Gordon White Library will host an afternoon movie screening, complete with popcorn. The event features a film about a supervillain-turned-agent and is perfect for children aged five to 12.
Gordon White Library
Sunday, July 6
Mackay Festival of Arts 2025 - Savour the Suburbs
12pm
The Mackay Festival of Arts brings a suburban afternoon show to Bucasia Beach. This free, all-ages event will feature local music, markets, and local produce, celebrating the unique community and natural beauty of the area.
Bucasia Beach
Monday, July 7
Strolling Stories – The Bungee Jumping Caterpillar
9am
Families can follow the latest strolling story along a 350m looped circuit at the Botanic Gardens. Story panels tell the adventures of AK and Zody, and a hidden painted rock along the circuit offers a chance to win a book. This activity is available daily through Friday, July 11.
Just past the Malta Garden at the Botanic Gardens
Bocce with a Buddy
9am
Visitors can test their skills at the bocce court in the Malta Garden. Bocce sets are available for hire for a small fee from the Visitor Information Centre, with no booking required. This activity is available Monday to Friday.
Malta Garden’s Bocce Court
LEGO® Fun at the Library
9am
Children aged six and over can unleash their creativity with thousands of LEGO® pieces at their fingertips. This is a drop-in session where no registration is needed, allowing young builders to create masterpieces or simply have fun. This event is also available on Tuesday, July 8, and Wednesday, July 9.
Gordon White Library
Tee It Up Golf At Caneland Central
9:30am
Shoppers are invited to challenge themselves at a seven-hole mini-golf course. Participants can grab a club and scorecard to putt their way through the course for a fun, friendly challenge. A hole-in-one could win a $100 gift card. No bookings are required. This activity is available daily from July 7 to July 13.
Centre Court (Outside Myer) at Caneland Central
Special Kids Tours of the Sarina Sugar Shed
10:30am
A fun, interactive tour designed for children is available, focusing on the process of growing and harvesting sugar cane. Participants can taste sugar cane juice, molasses, and non-alcoholic ginger beer. Adults are welcome at the children's price, and bookings are essential. This special tour runs daily throughout the school holidays.
Sarina Sugar Shed
Songwriting and Singing Workshop
11:30am
Sarina Youth Centre is hosting a songwriting and singing workshop for youth aged ten to 21. With limited spaces, bookings are required for this creative session.
Bob Wood Cultural Hall
Tuesday, July 8
Car Care 101 for New Drivers
2pm
Treadwell Tyres is hosting a hands-on session for new drivers to learn basic car maintenance skills, such as how to change a tyre and check oil levels. The session is ideal for those who have recently obtained their learner’s permit or license. Sensible clothing and closed-in shoes are required.
Treadwell Tyres, 169 Boundary Road, Paget
Intergenerational Play
9am-12pm
A heartwarming morning of fun and play across generations. Calling all families with children under 5 and nursing homes or elderly residents.
Cheeky Little Monkeys Play Centre, 118 Wood Street
Wednesday, July 9
Bead It Bar
9:30am
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre will host a 'Bead It Bar' where children can create their own keyrings, bracelets, and necklaces. This hands-on activity encourages creativity and fine motor skills.
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre
Thursday, July 10
Sip and Create
9:30am
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre is hosting a relaxed painting session where each guest receives a pre-drawn canvas, making it easy for anyone to create a beautiful piece of art. This session is also available on Saturday, July 12.
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre
Pool Tournament
1pm
The Sarina Youth Centre invites youth aged ten to 21 to participate in a pool tournament. With only 12 spaces available, bookings are required for this competitive and social event. Sarina Youth Centre
Friday, July 11
Upcycle Workshop
9:30am
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre is hosting an eco-friendly workshop where attendees can transform an old T-shirt into a no-sew tote bag. This hands-on session teaches participants how to give their clothing a fabulous second life.
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre
Sunday, July 13
Pouch Customisation Station
9:30am
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre will host a pouch customisation station. Children can decorate their own clear cosmetic pouch with stick-on patches, sparkly stickers, and other decorations to create a unique accessory.
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre
Mackay Festival of Arts 2025 - Savour the Suburbs
12pm
The Mackay Festival of Arts presents another suburban afternoon show, this time at Pinnacle Cricket Grounds. This free, all-ages event will feature local music, markets, and fanfare, celebrating the region's unique communities and natural attractions.
Pinnacle Cricket Grounds
Country Fest Queensland 2025 transformed Bloomsbury into a vibrant celebration of country music and rural culture over the weekend of June 27–28. Held at the Dittmann Bull Pit, the festival featured a stellar lineup of artists, including American headliners Randy Houser and Max McNown, alongside Australian favourites like James Johnston, Shannon Noll, Casey Barnes, and Tori Darke.
Attendees enjoyed a diverse array of activities beyond the music, such as the adrenaline-pumping PBR Bull Ride, line dancing sessions, market stalls, kids' rides, and a variety of food trucks. The festival also offered camping facilities, allowing fans to immerse themselves fully in the country atmosphere.
The event was praised for its family-friendly environment and the opportunity it provided for both local and international artists to connect with the community. Festival-goers left with unforgettable memories, already anticipating next year's Country Fest.
Find the Social Pics here:
Friday 4th July
Crochet & Conversation
9am
Join a welcoming morning of crochet, coffee, and conversation with Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. All skill levels welcome—just look for the yarn to find the table. Connection and creativity guaranteed.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant
Abbe 2025 Conference
12pm
Coming to Mackay this July, the abbe 2025 Conference dives into the dynamic world of Australian artists book practice. Over two days, artists, postgraduates, and professionals will explore themes of ‘Contemporary Artists Book Practice’ and ‘Mapping Australia’s Artists Book Histories: A Group Effort’. In an exciting first, abbe partners with Artspace Mackay and The Blue Notebook: Journal for Artists’ Books to elevate this national conversation.
Artspace Mackay
2025 Naidoc Collection Exhibition
5pm
Experience the vibrant storytelling of culture and Country through the 2025 NAIDOC Collection Exhibition, featuring original artworks, emu eggs, clap sticks, and handcrafted jewellery. Jessica Rigby Art will be on display at the Jubilee Community Exhibition Centre Mackay from 4–31 July. Don’t miss the opening night on 4 July from 5pm to 7pm.
Jubilee Community Exhibition Centre Mackay
LIVE Music
6-9pm
Enjoy LIVE music every Friday at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International
Saturday 5th July
Hawks Industrial Solutions Pirtek Mackay Motor Show
9am – 5 & 6 July
Car lovers are in for a treat at the 2025 Hawks Industrial Solutions Pirtek Mackay Motor Show. From elite showstoppers across the country to standout local cars and motorcycles, the Mackay Showgrounds will come alive with automotive excellence, food vendors, live music, free kids entertainment, and Go-to-Whoa action.
Mackay Showgrounds
Meet Postie Tina – Storytime & Rock Painting
10am
Step into the Toy Shop to meet Postie Tina, the inspiration behind local book Mrs Trilla and the Painted Rock. Snap a photo with her real-life postie bike, join in on rock painting fun, and grab a signed copy of the book from both Tina and author Ally.
Let The Children Play Toy Shop
Ballroom & Latin Dance Night
7.30pm
Mackay takes the floor on 5 July with a dazzling evening of ballroom and Latin dance! Enjoy a mix of fun routines and relaxed social dancing, with supper included. Private lessons and workshops also available across the weekend. $25 per person
Saint Charles Anglican Church, West Mackay
Sunday 6th July
Savour the Suburbs (Bucasia Esplanade)
12pm
Savour the Suburbs returns to the Bucasia Esplanade for a Sunday afternoon filled with live local music, markets, produce, and beachside vibes. This FREE event is suitable for all-ages and celebrates Mackay’s vibrant communities and coastal charm – one suburb at a time.
Bucasia Esplanade
Sarina Country Music Family Afternoon
1pm
Enjoy a toe-tapping afternoon of country music at the Sarina Sporting and Services Club. New artists are welcome to perform, and admission is just $5. The bistro opens at 11.30am, and a free courtesy bus is available—call the club to book. Club meeting at 11.30am prior to the event.
Sarina Sporting and Services Club, Brewers Road, Sarina
Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel
Monday 7th June
Monday Swim Squad
5.30pm
Start the week strong with Monday Swim Squad—a coached session focused on fitness, technique, and water confidence. Whether training for a triathlon or just after a great workout, swimmers of all levels are welcome, with distances up to 2200m based on ability. Participants should bring goggles, a swim cap, water bottle, fins, and a pull buoy. Cost is $5 pool entry plus $5 for non/social members.
Paradise Swimming & Fitness
Thursday 10th July
Fortnightly Goose Ponds Walk
6:50am
Enjoy a refreshing, relaxed walk around the Goose Ponds, perfect for soaking up beautiful weather and connecting with others. Open to members and non-members alike. Meet at Avanti Gym by 6:50am or Goose Ponds Park (Willets Road) at 7:00am. Please arrive 10 minutes early if meeting at the centre.
Avanti Gym or Goose Ponds Park, Willets Road
NAIDOC Celebrations
4pm
Join the community for the annual NAIDOC celebrations, proudly sponsored by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal. Enjoy market stalls, cultural workshops, dance performances, kids activities, kup murri, and more. This free event is open to all.
PCYC, Mackay
Get ready to amplify your tropical festival escape! The Airlie Beach Festival of Music is thrilled to announce that Aussie rock legend Dave Gleeson of The Screaming Jets has been named its official Festival Ambassador for 2025. To celebrate, the festival is launching Gleeso’s Ultimate Party in Paradise competition, where entrants go in the draw to win the ultimate festival experience.
Set to ignite the Whitsundays from November 7th-9th, 2025, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music promises three days of non-stop music and unforgettable experiences. With Dave Gleeson now on board as Ambassador, the energy is set to soar even higher.
"Being named Ambassador for the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is an absolute honour," said Dave Gleeson. "This festival is truly one of a kind – where else can you watch world-class acts with the Whitsunday Islands as your backdrop? It’s not just a gig; it's a full-blown experience, and after experiencing the Whitsundays in May, I know this prize package is my ideal way to do the festival! I can't wait to be a bigger part of bringing this party to everyone in 2025. Get ready to rock!"
Win Gleeso’s Ultimate Party in Paradise Package for the 2025 Festival!
This exclusive giveaway includes everything you need for an escape to paradise and the ultimate festival experience - just as Gleeso would do it:
● Return flights for two: Direct to Whitsunday Coast Airport from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, or Cairns.
● Five nights of luxury accommodation: A Waterview Queen Room at Heart Hotel.
● Scenic flight and reef adventure: Experience a breathtaking flight over Heart Reef and a thrilling tour to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet with Ocean Rafting.
● Daily breakfast at The Deck: Start your days with a delicious breakfast
● Seafood platter for two: Enjoy a fresh seafood platter at Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill.
● Two 3-day passes to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music: Enjoy live performances from legendary artists with two passes to this iconic festival.
Festival Founder Gavin Butlin said, "If you only enter one prize competition a year, this is the one you want to be in! Having Dave Gleeson join us as Ambassador adds another layer of rock 'n' roll magic to what's already set to be an incredible year. Our awesome lineup including headliners and emerging artists, the stunning location, and this fantastic prize package make the Airlie Beach Festival of Music an unmissable event."
To enter, complete the form on the festival website and share in 25 words or less who you’d bring with you and why.
Entries close on Sunday 10 August, 2025. Don't miss your chance to win this incredible package and experience the best of The Whitsundays alongside world-class music. For more information, tickets to the 2025 festival, or to enter the competition, visit www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au.
The Airlie Beach Festival of Music is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland.
David Gleeson. Photo credit: Jason Rosewarne.
Another fantastic year of boot scootin’ has come to a close as the Queensland Country Festival 2025 wrapped up in true country style on Sunday.
Locals and visitors from near and far hit the dancefloor to enjoy toe-tappin’ tunes from crowd favourites including Ella Mackenzie, Lane Pittman, Luke Geiger, Max Jackson, The Wolfe Brothers, Tori Darke, and Zac & George.
Festivalgoers browsed a variety of market stalls, tested their skills on both mechanical and live bull rides, and soaked up the lively atmosphere with plenty of dancing, drinks, and good old-fashioned fun.
Photo credit: Ruth Puddefoot.
Music lovers are in for a nostalgic treat when Keith Potger, founding member of Australia’s beloved folk-pop group The Seekers, brings his heartfelt solo tribute show Celebrating The Seekers – 60 Years to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Thursday, 17 July.
Starting at 1pm, this special one-hour matinee performance is set to take audiences on a warm and reflective journey through the songs, stories and harmonies that made The Seekers a household name around the world.
Potger’s 12-string guitar and signature vocal arrangements were a vital part of The Seekers’ unique sound, and in this solo concert, he celebrates the band’s extraordinary legacy through a collection of timeless hits, rare archival footage, and personal anecdotes from his decades in the spotlight.
A particularly moving segment of the show includes a special tribute to his longtime friend and fellow bandmate, the late Judith Durham AO, honouring her remarkable voice and enduring spirit.
"My solo concert Celebrating The Seekers – 60 Years is full of fun, songs and audio-visuals,
including my personal tribute to my singing buddy and 'little sister' Judith Durham,"
wrote Keith online.
In addition to The Seekers classics, Keith will also perform beautiful original ballads from his solo albums, as well as handpicked hits from the 1960s to 1980s that inspired the band’s sound and resonated with fans worldwide.
With a ticket price of just $10, this enriching experience promises to leave audiences humming familiar tunes and reminiscing about the golden era of Australian music.
Don’t miss this heart-warming, one-of-a-kind performance at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street, Proserpine. Secure your seat now to join Keith Potger for a celebration of music, memories and a legacy that continues to inspire.
For more details, contact the Proserpine Entertainment Centre or visit
👉 www.proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au
WHAT: Keith Potger Tribute Show
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: Thursday 17th July
Relive the magic of The Seekers with Keith Potger’s July performance at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (Photo Supplied)
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