By Sebastian Conidi

The iconic Whitsundays Songwriters Festival has been nominated for Festival of the Year – People’s Choice at the Queensland Music Awards. This nomination is a terrific recognition of the passion, hard work, and creative vision behind the festival, led by co-founder and Director, and local Whitsundays singer-songwriter, Karen Jacobsen, presented under the auspices of the Whitsundays Arts Festival.

The fifth Whitsundays Songwriters Festival will take place from 3 to 7 June 2026. Highlights will include the much-loved Concert and Conversation on Saturday evening, 6 June, along with three levels of songwriting workshops held during the day: Beginner, Intermediate, and Masterclass.

The songwriter’s festival emerged as part of the Whitsundays Arts Festival in 2021.

“It began when I performed at the closing event in concert for the Whitsundays Arts Festival in 2021 and I met the president Jess Begun”, said Karen.

“I told her that I always dreamt of a songwriter festival, and she said there’s no reason we can’t do that next year.”

In 2022, the Whitsundays Songwriters Festival debuted.

“It was co-founded with the Whitsundays Arts Festival as well as Francesca de Valence head of I Heart Songwriting in Brisbane. We created a songwriter residency, inviting six professional songwriters from around Australia to come together for four days and co-write and collaborate.”

The program has feature incredible songwriters such as Vika & Linda, Tony Childs and locals Graham Connors and Brad Butcher.

The program features a concert and Q&A interviewing the expert panel, with people performing songs they wrote the previous day.

Despite the event’s previous success, Karen reflected on the difficulties of garnering support for arts and culture in the region.

“It’s been an ongoing challenge in my capacity as an art creator in the region to access funding. Our volunteers spend hundreds of hours creating materials for grants and funding applications. I would love to see an equal level of investment in arts that we see for sports. In my experience arts are equally important, and having children and adults engaged in all manner of arts activities creates a healthy society.”

The songwriting festival has creating amazing opportunities for those enthusiastic about creativity.

“Every year, there are profound experiences in the workshops and the concert events. It’s wonderful to have the kind of feedback we have from the local community.”

The festival has seen great support from sponsors and partners.

“We are really grateful to our partners and sponsors from the previous years and, as we embark on our 2026 festival, we would love to hear from any community members interested in our programmes.”

The songwriting festival is a vital opportunity, fostering arts and creativity in the Whitsunday’s region. It is great to see the initiative continue into 2026. Best of luck to the team!!

WSF 2023 Songwriter Workshop – Photo source: Tropix Photography
WSF 2025 Brad Butcher, Cnr Jan Clifford, Mayor Ry Collins, Karen Jacobsen, Chris Sebastian, Zipporah, Francesca de Valence, Mark Sholtez, Jessica Begun – Photo source: Karen Jacobsen

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February
7 Galentine’s Day, Queens Beach Hotel, 12pm-4pm
7 Bustamento Intrepid Adventure Tour, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5.30pm
8 One Love – The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm – 5.30pm
17 Sailability Whitsunday, 9am onwards
9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am
27 Speed Networking, Lumos Café 7.30-8.30am
28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm – 5.30pm

March
3 Sailability Whitsunday, 9am onwards
7 Proserpine Lions & Lion Ladies International Womens Day, Proserpine RSL, 1pm-5pm
7&8 Late for Woodstock, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5.30pm
14&15 U2 Rattle & Hum plus Coldplay Show, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5.30pm
17 Sailability Whitsunday, 9am onwards
21&22 Katie Jayne LIVE, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5.30pm
22 The UK Rod Stewart Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm-9.45pm
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, 9am onwards

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Friday 6 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
KCs: Retro Joe (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaeden McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)
Grandview Hotel: Nite Johnson (from 8pm)

Saturday 7 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Bustamento (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
KCs: Retro Joe (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)

Sunday 8 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: One Love/Nicky Bomba (2pm-5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ (1pm – 5pm)
KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Monday 9 February
KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

Tuesday 10 February
KCs: Dave Helgi (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

Wednesday 11 February
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

Thursday 12 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30-9.30pm)
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)

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The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network will be holding a special free screening on Thursday 12 February at the Reef Gateway Hotel. The film, entitled ‘When The Dust Settles’, was made by award winning a director Stuart McKay and sheds light on the issues many men face, opening conversations around supporting community growth and change.

It is a visually striking documentary that follows three Australians forever changed by the ripple effects of suicide.

The film screening has been brought to the region by Aaron Schultz, founder of the Outback Mind Foundation. Though the film features heavy themes, it is meant to be uplifting and accessible to all, however the team will provide staff for anyone who is triggered by the content. The film is designed to be inspiring, encouraging communities to get together to support those that are impacted or bereaved by suicide, ultimately putting in future measures to prevent it.  

All are encouraged to come along to the screening. The greater the participation, the more support that can be fostered for an incredibly vital cause which impacts many across the region. Whether it is individuals, council staff, sports clubs or community groups. All are welcome to come along for a great night.

It is wonderful to see that the work that is being done by the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, as they continue to push important initiatives in 2026.

WHAT: Whitsunday screening: When The Dust Settles
WHEN: Thursday February 12th, 6.45pm
WHERE: Reef Gateway Hotel, Cannonvale Function Room

Photo source: Facebook

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If you’re busy driving down the highway to hell on the weekend of February 14th and 15th don’t be afraid to take the exit towards the Airlie Beach Hotel for some high voltage rock n roll.  

Whole Lotta Rosie are one of Australia’s premiere AC/DC tribute bans, packing a heavy rock n roll punch for all to enjoy.

Whole Lotta Rosie initially formed as a supergroup of veteran musicians, all with experience playing AC/DC tunes. Having played for close to 10 years, it’s been a long way to the top, but the electric ensemble shows no signs of slowing down.

“The band have a great ear for that authentic AC/DC sound, they’re all big fans to begin with and know their gear, so when you come to a Whole Lotta Rosie gig, hearing that genuine AC/DC rock sound”, said singer Cynthia Gallie.

The band has built a strong foundation in Melbourne, developing a dedicated fanbase through consistent performances.

“We have an awesome loyal following in Melbourne who are super passionate about the music.”

Having played in Airlie before, the band are incredibly eager to return.

“A couple of years ago we were lucky enough to have a weekend of gigs at Airlie Beach Hotel and absolutely loved it. We’re all looking forward to bringing the band back for round 2!”

Despite covering a huge discography, the group are able to balance great hits with epic deep cuts.

“We try to strike a balance between delivering the well-known favourites and satisfying the more dedicated and well-versed fans with those album deep cuts.”

Cynthia clearly has some impressive chops, belting the iconic songs of both Bon Scott and Brian Johnson.

“Bon has a lot of great songs that highlight how good he was as a storyteller. These are my favourite to perform. Songs like Ride On and Rock ‘n’ Roll Singer. Then you have Brian with his incredible range so sinking my teeth into songs like Shoot To Thrill and Hells Bells is a great challenging and is very satisfying”.

Get down to Airlie Beach Hotel if you want to be thunderstruck by the power of Whole Lotta Rosie’s epic rock show.

WHAT: Whole Rotta Rosie – playing the best of AC/DC plus Rock Classics, Valentine’s Day Special

WHEN: Saturday 14th February and Sunday 15th February, 2pm til 5.30pm

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

Photo sourced

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If your dinner routine is feeling a little tired, consider this your sign to declare a full-blown taco night, but with a vegetarian twist and let the warm tortillas, and colourful fillings put your tastebuds on a direct flight to Mexico!

Creativity’s your best friend when it comes to crafting a veggie taco, but like any recipe, you must first, start with a solid base! Roasted or sautéed vegetables will be instrumental in piecing together your masterpiece; picture sweet potato tossed in smoky spices, caramelised mushrooms with that irresistible umami hit, charred corn straight off the grill, or crispy cauliflower coated in chilli and paprika. Oh and add black beans, lentils or quinoa if you want something hearty that still feels light.

A key component of crafting the perfect taco lies in the freedom to design the dish to suit your own preferences, choose-your-own-adventure style! Choose from toppings like creamy guacamole, fresh pico de gallo, mango or pineapple salsa for sweetness, pickled red onions for tang, or shredded cabbage for crunch and as a simple rule; the more textures, the better. A drizzle of chipotle mayo, yoghurt lime sauce or coriander dressing ties everything together.

Vegetarian tacos are all about intertwining several flavours to create something delicious, colourful and fun! Serve your creations family-style, squeeze over fresh lime, maybe shake up a margarita, and suddenly a weeknight dinner feels like a mini fiesta!

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Pop into the kitchen this week and whip up a delicious batch of vegetarian tacos! Photo source: Shutterstock

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Is your dog a bit restless? Too much barking and not enough fun. Well here are some great activities in the Whitsunday's region for your favourite canine friend to enjoy.

Cannonvale Beach Walk
The lovely Cannonvale Beach is pet friendly, making it a perfect haven for your dog to run free. Enjoy a great atmosphere and beautifal views of the coastline as you stroll along the shore with your beloved animal.

Bicentennial Boardwalk
The relaxed 4km coastal walking track provides scenic views with rest stops and water stations to conveniently keep your pets hydrated.

Airlie Beach Lagoon Markets
Stroll through the vibrant Saturday morning markets with your furry friend. The great event lends a pet friendly atmosphere, with the potential to purchase treats, toys and accesories from local vendours for maximum entertainment.

Shingley Beach
The quiet beach, tucked away from crowds is great for when you and your pet just want to unwind. The calm waters are safe for pets to wade in and play.

Kings Beach
Situated in Bowen, Kings Beach is a beautifal off-leash dog friendly beach - perfect to let your dog run free. A long sandy beach, with calm waters, it lends the perfect relaxing experience.

Cedar Creek Falls
Just a 25 minute drive south of Airlie Beach, the dog friendly site allows owners to bring their pets on a leash.

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Spend the weekend with your furry friend enjoying the region's abundance of dog friendly beaches! Photo source: Shutterstock

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Friday 30 January

KCs: Erin Reus (from 8pm)

Grandview Hotel: Ash Smith (from 8pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)

Sorento: Kaeden McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)

Saturday 31 January

Coral Sea Marina Resort: Noah Davis (1pm-5pm)

KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Grandview Hotel: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Hendrix (2pm - 7:30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)

Sunday 1 February

Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ (1pm-5pm)

KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6:30pm - 9:30pm)

Monday 2 February
KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Tuesday 3 February
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Wednesday 4 February
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Thursday 5 February
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6:30pm - 9:30pm)

Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)

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January
31 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

February
1 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

7 Galentine's Day, Queens Beach Hotel, 12pm - 4pm

7 Bustamento Intrepid Adventure Tour, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

8 One Love - The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am

14 & 15 Whole Lotta Rosie, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

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Legendary Australian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Nicky Bomba is set to take to the stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel, 7th February, with his exciting project Bustamento. Known as the being the driving force behind the Melbourne Ska Orchestra and drummer for the John Butler Trio, Nicky has had an eclectic career, performing from Bluesfest to Glastonbury.

His special project Bustamento shows no signs of slowing down. A combination of Nicky’s various musical cohorts, Bustamento is a collage of various sounds and styles. Bustamento harness mento music as their foundation - acoustic Jamaican folk music that influenced ska and reggae.

"Theres a special feeling about touching the seed of that music, it's very joyful, very tongue in cheek", said Nicky.

Having explored such a specific scene of music, Nicky clearly has a deep affection for its origins and significance.

"The essence of the music was making light of things. It was considered to be the voice of the people. If there were things they couldn't say in the newspaper or publicly, they could say them in the context of the song and get away with it."

With seasoned touring experience, Bustamento have added musical flavours from around the world, implementing reggae, steel pan calypso, Mowtown, pop and New Orleans boogie to their wonderfully quirky sound.

Nicky, along with his various projects, is no stranger to the Airlie Beach Hotel.

"We like to do it once or twice a year. It's a bit of a tradition now. We have lots of friends up there. The venue has a nice outdoor tropical vibe so it ties in with the music well. The atmosphere really helps with the context of the music".

Despite such an extensive career, Nicky is still learning new things.

"That's the beauty of music. I don't think I'll ever learn all the things I really want to."

The band will then reform the next day, Sunday 8th February, as ONE LOVE, playing the iconic tunes of Bob Marley and the Wailers, plus many other reggae classics.

Get down to Airlie Beach Hotel for a series of energetic, fun and enthusiastic performances.

Saturday 7th February
WHAT: Nicky Bomba's Bustamento, FREE SHOW
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: 2pm til 5:30pm

Sunday 8th February
WHAT: One Love – The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers plus Reggae Classics, FREE SHOW
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: 2pm til 5:30pm

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Photo source: Facebook

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Friday 30th January

Crochet and Conversation
9am
Join the friendly Northern Beaches community for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee, and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own crochet tools or borrow from the communal box. Beginners and coffee lovers alike are welcome. Sit inside during summer or under the shade sails in cooler months, enjoy connection, creativity, and community projects, and soak up the beauty of Bucasia Esplanade. No RSVP needed.
Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia Esplanade

Friday Flow
5pm
The River of Life Festival Association warmly invites the community to come along and be part of this vibrant, feel-good event. Open to all ages and experience levels, the session is hosted by Jen and Karen from Rhythm Business, alongside Margy and Jamesley, who will guide first-timers to find their rhythm and voice in a relaxed, welcoming space. With food and drinks available, plus free children’s activities including arts, crafts and an air-track gymnastics mat, it’s the perfect outing for the whole family.
Bluewater Quay, Mackay

Sunday 1st February

Sarina Country Music Family Afternoon
1pm
Join the Sarina Country Music Club for a fun-filled family afternoon on Sunday, 1 February, from 1.00pm at the Sarina Sporting and Services Club, Brewers Road. The bistro opens at 11.30am, and a free courtesy bus is available—call the Club on 4956 1229 to book. Admission is $5, and new artists are welcome to perform with the support of a backing band. For more information, contact Club President Graham on 0419 762 216. Everyone is welcome!
Sarina Sporting and Services Club, Brewers Road

4.30pm
Local men are coming together to support one another through loss with a new grief support group. Open to men 18 and over—or younger with a male adult—the group offers a safe, welcoming space to share experiences and connect, not formal counselling. The first session is Sunday 1 February, 3–4.30pm at Minds Aligned, 15 Peel Street, Mackay CBD, and will continue fortnightly. Attendance is free, with facilitators and venue generously provided.
Minds Aligned, 15 Peel Street, Mackay

Tuesday 3rd February

Playgroup – Hall Session
9.30am
Come along to Northern Beaches Community Hall for Playgroup and a Dinosaur Adventure! Enjoy a fun-filled morning from 9:30am–11:30am with a special performance from Wild Puppets, plus sensory play, craft, puzzles, books, and active play stations. Bring a hat, water bottle, sunscreen, and your own morning tea. A $3 donation per family helps fund supplies. Children under 12 months attend free. Sign up as a free Play Matters member and enjoy a morning of connection, play, and community.
Northern Beaches Community Hall, Bucasia

Wednesday 4th February

Mackay Mums Circle
9.30am
Join Mackay Mums Circle for a mid-week reset at John Breen Park, North Mackay, every second Wednesday from 9:30am. Bring the kids, snacks, a coffee, and a picnic rug or chair, and enjoy a relaxed morning of connection while the little ones play. Casual, free, and drop-in—stay as long as you like. Hats, sunscreen, and water recommended. Perfect for mums to catch their breath and share a chat in a supportive community.
John Breen Park, North Mackay

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The next film night will feature Four Mothers, rated MA 15+, screening at 7.30pm on Friday 6 February at the CQU Cook Theatre, CQU Ooralea Campus, Building 1 (at the end of the road), 351–371 Boundary Road, Ooralea.

For the first film night of the year, audiences will be taken to Ireland with this delightful film. Wine and nibblies will be served after the screening as usual. Ticket prices remain unchanged: $10 for members and students, and $15 for all others. Booking online assists with planning and catering and helps reduce queues on the night, which are expected given it is the first screening of the year.

Tickets are available via trybooking.com.

Four Mothers (2024, Ireland/UK, MA 15+, 1 hour 29 minutes) is the winner of the Audience Award at the BFI London Film Festival. This sharp-edged comedy blends wit, warmth and chaos, following Edward (James McArdle), a writer on the brink of international success whose plans for a U.S. book tour are derailed when his mother Alma (Fionnula Flanagan) suffers a stroke.

Edward finds himself balancing deadlines, doctor’s visits and caregiving responsibilities, which escalate when his three best friends leave town for a Pride festival, leaving him to care for their mothers as well.

The result is a whirlwind weekend in Dublin as four very different women share one roof, with arguments, secrets and unexpected connections unfolding along the way. Directed by Darren Thornton, the film is a heartfelt and humorous exploration of family, both chosen and otherwise.

Memberships for 2026 are also now available via trybooking.com. Attendees are encouraged to complete memberships online before the February film night to help reduce queues. If this is not possible, membership forms can be downloaded and brought to the next film night with cash or card payment.

Annual membership is $25 and provides reduced admission to regular monthly films and the Mackay International Film Festival. Gold membership, priced at $80, includes free admission to monthly FAM film nights, along with member pricing for festivals and special events.

More information is available at https://filmartsmackay.weebly.com/.

Details:
Next film night: Four Mothers
Rated MA 15+
7:30pm Friday 6th February
CQU Cook Theatre, CQU Ooralea Campus Building 1 (at the end of the road), 351-371 Boundary Road, Ooralea.

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A bold new Australian play that tackles identity, history, and belonging is set to take the stage at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) this March.

Crossing the Divide - co-created by Sam Foster, Hayden Jones and Benjin Maza - offers an engaging theatrical experience for both the general public and school audiences.

Set during a two-day school trek through the Blue Mountains, the play follows a group of high school students learning about the 1813 expedition of Blaxland, Wentworth and Lawson.

Guided by their leader Lionel, the group begins to unpack the parts of Australian history often left out of textbooks - early encounters between colonists and First Nations people, and the legacy of colonisation.

Blending drama, comedy, live music, and powerful storytelling, this dynamic 60-minute production is designed to resonate with audiences aged 13 and over.

The story unfolds through multi-role ensemble performance and original composition, confronting themes of race, belonging and personal growth with honesty, humour and heart.

Following a successful season at QPAC’s Cremorne Theatre, Crossing the Divide will arrive in Mackay as part of its broader Queensland tour.

Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager of the MECC and Events, said showcasing works like this was a vital part of the venue’s role in the community.

“We’re proud to bring drama back to our stage. Shock Therapy Arts has built a strong reputation with our local educators, so we’re thrilled to offer both a public show and a dedicated school’s session” he said.

“It’s a powerful piece of theatre that starts meaningful conversations, and that’s exactly what we want to support” he continued.

When asked about the upcoming visit to Mackay, co-created Sam Foster said, “We had such a fantastic response when we brought VIRAL to Mackay in 2021 - there was real engagement from the students and educators.”

“We’re really looking forward to returning with Crossing the Divide. It’s a powerful piece that asks some big questions, and we can’t wait to share it with the Mackay community” he continued.

Presented in the MECC’s Auditorium, Crossing the Divide features a tight ensemble of three performers.

The production has already been celebrated for its raw energy, authenticity, and relevance.

The MECC invites the community to experience this standout work of Australian theatre.

Shock Therapy Arts – Crossing the Divide
Monday 30 March – 7.30pm

Tuesday 31 March – 10.30am
MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

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Crossing the Divide, a bold Australian production exploring identity, history and belonging, will arrive at the MECC in March, inviting Mackay audiences and students to engage with powerful, conversation-starting theatre. Photo source: MECC

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Airlie Beach Hotel is set to come alive this Australia Day weekend, with a powerhouse line-up of Australian rock icons and tribute acts taking to the beachfront stage for music, memories and mate-ship.

Headlining the weekend is the acclaimed Cold Chisel tribute band Gold Chisel and an Australian Midnight Oil tribute, but special guests brothers of Jimmy Barnes, Alan Barnes and John 'Swanee' Swan will set the roof off.

Running from on Saturday and Sunday, the free shows promise a relaxed, festival-style celebration of classic Aussie rock.

Plus don't miss the massive showing on Monday from 12pm – 6pm titled ‘The Wizards of Oz’.

For Alan Barnes, the upcoming performances mark a long-awaited return to the region, with his last visit dating back more than two decades. His brother Swanee is also excited to perform and will perform some of his hits plus songs from his latest album 'Believe'.

continued on page 23

Alan Barnes And Swanee To Deliver An Unforgettable Weekend

continued from page 1

Across the weekend, Alan Barnes will perform original material alongside well-loved Australian classics, with guest appearances from Gold Chisel’s Andy Lutze and collaborative moments that will see multiple artists sharing the stage.

Adding an emotional layer to the event is the presence of Swanee, whose latest album 'Believe' has struck a powerful chord with audiences nationwide. Released last year, the album debuted at number one and features an all-star list of collaborators, including his brothers Alan and Jimmy Barnes on the track Brother of Mine.

The song explores the distance and closeness that often define family life in the music industry, where touring can keep loved ones apart for long stretches of time. Recording it together marked the first time the three brothers had officially collaborated on a single track.

“It was very emotional,” Alan said.

“We’ve sung together on stage for years, but this was different. The song meant something to us as a family, and it turns out it means something to a lot of people.”

For Swanee, Believe is as much about friendship and legacy as it is about music. Featuring artists from across Australia and overseas, the album reflects decades of shared stages, hard roads and lifelong bonds formed within the Australian rock scene.

“If you’re true to your word and you do good gigs, people remember and will be stayers,” Swanee said.

“This album is a testament to the degree of friendship that you get in the Australian rock industry."

That philosophy also extends beyond the stage. Swanee has spent more than 15 years working with children in hospitals, rehabilitation centres and autism support programs, using music as a tool for connection, healing and confidence.

Similarly, Alan said music has always been about more than performing on stage.

“For me, it’s a way to express yourself and get your feelings out," Alan said.

"But I love music because it brings people together, it takes bad feelings away, it gives good feelings and a lot of people just relax when they're out having fun."

With the sad passing of Midnight Oil founding member Rob Hirst, the Australian Midnight Oil Tribute Show will perform a heartfelt dedication to Rob, which will play on the heart strings of many.

The Airlie Beach shows will bring history, heart and shared experience together, with sets featuring songs from Believe, classic Australian rock favourites and collaborative finales that will see multiple musicians filling the stage.

With limited bookings still available and strong demand already reported, the Australia Day weekend performances are shaping as a standout event on the local calendar.

As Alan put it, “What better way to spend the weekend than great music, great people and a stage right on the beach?”

WHAT: Gold Chisel Tribute Show & The Australian Midnight Oil Show Tribute Show ft. Swanee and Alan Barnes
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 24 & Sunday 25 (2pm - 5.30pm)

WHAT: The Wizards of OZ
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: AUSTRALIA DAY Monday 26 January (12pm - 6pm)

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Jimmy Barnes, Swanee, and Alan Barnes with Swanee’s new album. Photo sourced

Andy Lutze, Swanee, and Alan Barnes.
Alan Barnes and Swanee will perform on stage this weekend.
Photos supplied

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Bowen residents are being invited to celebrate Australia Day with an afternoon of music, history and community spirit at the Queensland Cruising Yacht Club.

The free event, organised by the Rotary Club of Bowen, will take place from 3pm on Australia Day and aims to revive a tradition once hosted by the Bowen Historical Society many years ago.

Organiser Mark Steen said the afternoon would feature a mix of Australiana singalong songs, bush poetry and local history, all in the comfort of an air-conditioned venue.

“We’ll be singing classic Australian songs, with the lyrics projected on a screen so everyone can join in,” Mark said.

Adding a historical element to the celebration, Bowen Historical Society will present a short history and spiel of the Bowen jetty and what the future may hold for the iconic structure.

The afternoon will also include performances by two bush poets, as well as tea and coffee provided by Rotary volunteers.

Mark said the idea behind the event was to encourage people of all ages to reflect on Australia’s history and culture.

“I just felt we were lacking a bit in remembering Australiana, as young folk we used to sing songs, and it's been lost," he said."

"It's just about remembering our younger days when we were learning those songs ourselves."

While the event has a nostalgic focus, Mark said everyone was welcome to attend.

“It’s aimed at the older generation, but it’s really for anyone who wants to enjoy some music, history and a relaxed Australia Day afternoon.”

The Australia Day afternoon is free to attend, with all catering and supplies supported by the Rotary Club of Bowen.

Residents are encouraged to come along, bring a friend and enjoy a uniquely local way to mark the national day.

WHAT: Australia Day Event
WHERE: North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club, Bowen
WHEN: Monday 26 January at 3pm

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