28th August

ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm

Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm

KC’s Bar & Grill: Andrew Baldino, 8pm-10pm

Grand View Hotel Bowen: DJ night, 8pm onwards

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29nd August  

ABH: Wendy Stapleton: Dusty Springfield, 2pm-5:30pm

ABH: Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm

Sorrento’s: Andrew Baldino, 4pm-7pm

KC’s Bar & Grill: Jason Bull, 8pm-10pm

Grand View Hotel Bowen: Zed Charles band, 8pm onwards

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30th August  

ABH: Wendy Stapleton: Swinging Sixties, 2pm-5:30pm,  

ABH: Paul Fergus Morris, 6:30-9:30pm  

KC’s Bar & Grill: Jason Bull, 8pm-10pm

Grand View Hotel Bowen: Ronny Broker, 1pm-5pm

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31st August

Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm  

KC’s Bar & Grill: Graham Rix, 8pm-10pm

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1st September  

Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm  

KC’s Bar & Grill: Velvet Divan, 8pm-10pm  

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2nd September  

Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm [Text Wrapping Break]KC’s Bar & Grill: Velvet Divan, 8pm-10pm

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3rd September

ABH: Aaron Saxon, 6:30pm-9:30pm

Sorrentos: Lucy Rose, 4pm-7pm  

KC’s Bar & Grill: Velvet Divan, 8pm-10pm

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Mayor Collins with the winners from the awards presentation. Photo source: Mayor Ry Collins.

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Flagstaff Hill’s beauty just reached new heights as the Bowen Art Society opened its biggest annual exhibition yet, bringing artists and art lovers together for a colourful celebration of local creativity.

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Featuring more than 200 artworks from artists across the Whitsundays and Burdekin, the Bowen Art Society Annual Exhibition and Competition officially opened on Friday night before continuing over the following days.  

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“With more than 200 pieces of artwork on display, there’s some incredible talent to see,” Mayor Ry Collins said.

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“We live in a pretty spectacular part of the world, so there’s certainly no shortage of inspiration, but it takes real talent to turn that inspiration into something worth hanging on a wall!”

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The exhibition splashed an impressive mix of work from emerging, developing, experienced and junior artists, with each piece offering a bit of the artist's style, subject and perspective.  

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From scenes inspired by the region’s landscapes and coastal beauty to realistic animal portraits and imaginative creations, the collection echoed the recent Great Barrier Reef Art Exhibition, once again showing the wealth of diverse artistic talent found across the region.  

The opening night also featured live music from Bowen artist Samantha Roberts and award presentations guest judged by International landscape and portrait artist Maxine Thompson, while the crowd most importantly gave the artists their moment in the spotlight.

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“Great to see so many people come out to support our local arts community, and Council is proud to provide the spectacular Flagstaff Hill venue for the exhibition,” said Mayor Collins.  

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Bowen Tourism and Business team member Cindy Tonks and volunteer Steve “Fish” Fisher with Sue from O’Shannessy Coaches

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The team at Bowen Tourism and Business continue to welcome thousands of visitors to the region and they recently also provided tour guides for visiting bus travellers.

Last month, about 40 visitors from across Australia were given a guided taste of Bowen, with two busloads of tourists stopping at the Big Mango before touring some of the town’s most popular attractions.

The guided commentary service is one of the many ways Bowen Tourism and Business helps visitors make the most of their time in Bowen, with the benefit of local knowledge.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said that during winter each year, the Local Tourism Organisation usually receives several enquiries from coach companies looking for local guides.

“We are always happy to help,” she said.

"Our wonderful volunteers are always keen to be involved, and they are the perfect guides because they have such a wealth of local knowledge, and they love sharing their passion for Bowen.

Each bus ride route isn’t set in stone either, with several tour scripts allowing guides to tailor the experience to suit each group’s interests.

"We obviously provide visitors with information about our beautiful beaches, local history and the attractions that make Bowen such a wonderful place to visit," she said.

"However, many groups are also interested in learning more about our industries, particularly farming.

"People are often fascinated by the history of mango farming in our region, and they're also surprised to hear about our significant winter crops including tomatoes, corn and eggplant."

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Contributed with thanks to Leanne Abernethy.

Photos supplied by Proserpine State High School.

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Proserpine State High School’s Grade 10 agriculture students have traded their textbooks for the cane patch, planting a new sugar crop they will care for over the next year.  

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With help from Canegrowers Proserpine representatives Luke Valmadre and Jess Harrison, the students got their hands dirty preparing and planting the cane, which they will care for and monitor before its sweetness is put to the test next year in the Sweetest Cane Competition.

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“It’s about exposing students to what we do in the agricultural sector and giving them an understanding of what happens on the sugar cane farms surrounding their schools,” said Canegrowers Proserpine’s Brendan Northard.

“It helps bridge the gap between the towns and the farms around them, while hopefully sparking an interest in the industry.”

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The Sweetest Cane Competition invites schools from across the district to plant and manage their own sugar cane crops on school grounds, with students involved throughout the growing process.

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When the cane is ready, its sugar content is tested to determine which school has produced the sweetest crop, giving students a practical look at how local growers are rewarded for the quality of their cane.

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“It’s a great opportunity for the students to learn about what’s actually in their own backyard and make that real-life connection from the raw product through to the finished product,” Proserpine State High School Ag Assistant Gayle Watts said.

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“They also learn that the industry is not just about plants and animals, but the many different jobs associated with agriculture.”

Over the coming year, several agriculture classes will share responsibility for the crop, with each group taking on a different stage of the growing process.

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Students will move from preparing and planting the cane to fertilising and monitoring its growth before harvesting, juicing and testing it for sugar content ahead of the competition.

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“We’ve got the teachers, a mentor farmer who grows cane commercially, an agronomist and Canegrowers staff all involved,” Mr Northard said.

“It gives the students a bigger picture of what happens across the industry, rather than only teaching them how to grow the cane.”

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While different students will be involved along the way, each class will be able to check on the crop’s progress and take ownership of the work completed by those before them.

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“It means plenty of new faces come through and get involved, so the program gives a lot of students an awareness of the industry,” Ms Watts said.

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“They can look back on the work completed by earlier classes, check how the cane is growing and take some ownership of the crop themselves.”

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A new 1.2km walking track is taking shape between Dingo Beach and Hydeaway Bay. The new walking track will connect the Dingo Beach Foreshore at Olive Street with the Hydeaway Bay Foreshore Carpark, making it easier to enjoy the coastline while taking in scenic bay views.

Construction is now underway and expected to be completed in September 2026, weather permitting.

Grant Denyer. Photo supplied

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Australian television personality and motorsport enthusiast Grant Denyer will trade the racetrack for the riverbed this September when he takes on the Don River Dash in Bowen, getting back behind the wheel of an off-road buggy after a long break.

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The event, held from 4^th–6^th September 2026, will see Denyer join hundreds of competitors from across Australia as motorcycles, cars, buggies and trophy trucks battle it out across six 50-kilometre loops for the coveted King and Queen of the River titles.

“I’m always looking for new challenges in motorsport, and the Don River Dash is unlike anything I’ve done before,” Denyer said.

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“Racing through a dry riverbed where you can choose your own racing line, surrounded by passionate competitors and fans, sounds like an incredible experience.

“The reverse-grid format is something I can’t wait to sink my teeth into. You never quite know where you’ll end up in the mix, and that’s what makes it so exciting.

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“I’m really looking forward to getting behind the wheel of an off-road buggy, seeing what it can do and testing myself against some of the best off-road racers in Australia.”

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With the freedom to choose his own line through the riverbed and the challenge of the Don River Dash’s unique reverse-grid format, Denyer is eager to experience one of Australia’s most distinctive motorsport events firsthand.

Burdekin Offroaders Inc. President Michael Marson said having Denyer attend the event was a perfect fit.

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“Grant has a genuine passion for motorsport and understands what makes racing exciting—the competition, the machinery and the people behind it,” Mr Marson said.

“The Don River Dash is about stepping outside your comfort zone and experiencing something different. Whether you’re a professional racer, a weekend warrior or someone watching from the sidelines, there’s nothing else quite like it.”

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Now in its eighth year, the Don River Dash has become one of Australia’s most unique off-road racing events, attracting competitors and spectators from across the country to Bowen, at the gateway to the Whitsundays.

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With world-class racing, live entertainment, great food and the country hospitality Bowen is known for, the Don River Dash has become a favourite on the local calendar. This year, having a familiar face like Denyer’s behind the wheel will make the community’s much-loved event even more special.  

“Grant is a well-known TV personality and the publicity that will be generated by this announcement is very positive for our region,” said Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy.  

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“The Don River Dash attracts competitors, support crews and spectators from all over Australia. They come for the event, but they also get to experience what our beautiful region has to offer.

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“Grant Denyer’s involvement in the Dash this year will lift the profile of the event and of the region.”

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What? Don River Dash

When? Friday 4th - Sunday 6th September  

Where? Along the dry bed of the Don River in Bowen

There's no better way to spend a Saturday afternoon than with live music, great company and the beach as your backdrop. This September, Dunes Harbour Beach is inviting locals and visitors to come together for Tunes in the Dunes, a free community event designed to bring people together in a relaxed coastal setting.

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Set against the picturesque backdrop of Dunes Harbour Beach, Tunes in the Dunes offers the perfect excuse to step away from the busy pace of everyday life and reconnect with friends, family and neighbours. Whether you're spreading out a picnic blanket on the grass, enjoying a quiet drink as the afternoon unfolds, or simply taking in the stunning ocean views, the event promises a relaxed atmosphere where everyone is welcome.

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Providing the soundtrack to the afternoon is talented local musician Michael Scriha from Mellow Tone Music, whose laid-back acoustic style perfectly complements the natural beauty of the coastline.

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Events like Tunes in the Dunes are more than just live music performances - they're an opportunity to strengthen community connections and celebrate the lifestyle that makes our coastal region such a wonderful place to live. It's a chance to meet new people, catch up with familiar faces and enjoy quality time outdoors in one of Mackay’s most beautiful locations.

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Whether you're a resident, regular guest or someone discovering Tunes in the Dunes for the first time, this wonderful event offers something for everyone.

Tunes in the Dunes will be held on Saturday, 5 September 2026, from 3.30pm to 6.30pm at Dunes Harbour Beach, Sol Drive, adjacent to the Community Square.

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While attendance is free, the event is ticketed, so guests are encouraged to register early to secure their place.

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Proudly brought to you by the URBEX team, Tunes in the Dunes continues to be one of the region's favourite events, and organisers look forward to welcoming everyone for another memorable afternoon.

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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Mackay’s community spirit was on full display as the 11th annual M&P Services – Key Solutions Group Charity Golf Day brought a sold-out field together at Mackay Golf Course on Friday 14th August.

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Players, sponsors and supporters turned out in force for a day of friendly competition, fundraising and connection, with the popular event once again proving its place on Mackay’s community calendar.

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With more than $75,000 raised last year in 2025, the event has become an important fundraiser for local charities, supported by businesses and community members coming together for causes close to home.

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Stay tuned for next week’s edition to find out how much this year’s amazing charity golf day raised!

See all photos here:

Part 1: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/m-p-services-big-charity-swing-a-success-for-2026

Part 2: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/m-p-services-big-charity-swing-a-success-for-2026-part-2

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Friday 21^st August

Get Crafty At CraftAlive

9am – Friday & Saturday

CraftAlive Mackay returns to Mackay Showgrounds this Friday and Saturday, offering craft lovers two days of supplies, kits, expert demonstrations and hands-on classes. With local and interstate talent on display, it’s a great opportunity to discover new skills, find inspiration and enjoy a creative day out. 9am–4pm, Mackay Showgrounds, 24 Milton St.

Mackay Showgrounds, 24 Milton St, Mackay

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Cuppa Between Chapters

9am–10am

Take a break and enjoy a warm cuppa, good company and a little time to unwind at Dudley Denny City Library this Friday. Whether you’re keen for a chat, looking for a quiet moment with your current read, or simply want a welcoming change of scenery, this relaxed gathering offers a chance to connect with others and enjoy some community spirit.

Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria St, Mackay

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Stay Active With Chair Exercise

9:30am–10:30am

Looking for a fun way to stay active without needing to be on your feet? Join Chair Exercise at Mirani Library this Friday for a gentle, seated workout designed to keep you moving while having a bit of fun. Bring along some water, get comfortable and enjoy an hour of exercise and activity in a welcoming setting. 9:30am–10:30am, Friday, August 21.

Mirani Library, 16 Victoria St, Mirani

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Saturday 22^nd August

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Connect At Multicultural Open Day

10am–12pm

New to Mackay or looking to connect with others in the community? The Neighbourhood Hub’s Multicultural Open Day this Saturday will bring migrants, multicultural families and locals together to meet new people, learn about available services and discover support to help settle and thrive in the region. Light meals will be provided, with registration required. 10am–12pm, Saturday, August 22.

Victoria Park State Preschool Centre, 43 Shakespeare St, East Mackay

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Sunday 23^rd August

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Art In The Park

9am–2pm

Spend Sunday surrounded by creativity at Art In The Park, held at the Field of Dreams in front of the Sarina Art Gallery. Browse stalls featuring original works from local artists across a range of mediums, meet the creatives behind the work and find something unique to take home. With children’s art activities and a nearby playground, there’s plenty to enjoy for the whole family. 9am–2pm, Sunday, August 23.

Sarina Art Gallery, Field of Dreams, Sarina

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Mackay Gemfair

9am–3pm

Explore a sparkling mix of gemstones, minerals, crystals, jewellery and handmade crafts at the Mackay Gemfair this Sunday. Hosted by the Mackay Gem and Craft Society, the event offers visitors the chance to browse unique creations, discover local lapidary work and learn more through demonstrations of stone cutting, polishing and jewellery making. Whether you’re a collector, craft lover or simply curious, there’s plenty to discover. $5 entry, 9am–3pm, Sunday, August 23.

3 Leisure Ct, South Mackay

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Make, Share And Create At Artist Book Collective

10:30am–12:30pm

The Artist Book Collective returns to Artspace Mackay this Sunday, bringing local artists together to explore bookmaking, share skills and ideas, and find inspiration from the MRC Artists Book Collection. New members are encouraged to join the conversation, learn something new and connect with fellow creatives in the Mackay region. 10:30am–12:30pm, Sunday, August 23.

Artspace Mackay, 61 Gordon St, Mackay

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Photos supplied  

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Mackay Musical Comedy Players have been busy in rehearsals for their upcoming production of The Secret Garden.

Director Marina Duncan said, “The cast and crew are going really well and the show has some great acting and beautiful singing.”

Ms Duncan said The Secret Garden was similar to MMCP’s last blockbuster production, Grease, in that both shows have super-talented casts, but this show is characterised by its beautiful, soaring ballads. Critics have labelled the musical score one of the most hauntingly beautiful ever written for Broadway.

The Secret Garden is a show that calls for great vocals, and Mackay is lucky to have some very talented performers in the cast.

Newcomer to Mackay Trinity Hoolihan-March, as leading lady Lily Craven, is joined by Joshua Duncan in the role of Archie Craven for their magical duets.

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Newly married couple Kenneth and Chantal Brown, who have delighted audiences for years, also perform as the stoic Neville Craven and the needy Rose Lennox.

The Secret Garden is based on the classic novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, which is a favourite of millions all over the world.

Mary, an 11-year-old orphan from India, is sent to live with relatives in Yorkshire — her embittered uncle Archie and his invalid son Colin. The uncle’s estate includes a magical-looking garden which was tended by his wife Lily, who died in childbirth.

Flashbacks, dream sequences and an ensemble of ghosts from Mary’s early life dramatise The Secret Garden’s compelling tale about the healing power of love.

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Talented youngsters Adele Shepherd and Alex Beale (pictured) will delight Mackay audiences with their enchanting performances as young Mary Lennox and her invalid cousin, Colin Craven.

MMCP President Tonia Beckmann said the club, which recently celebrated 60 years of providing local theatre to Mackay audiences, is excited to be staging this magical adventure for the whole family.

She cautioned, however, that rising costs to stage productions are making it difficult for the club to navigate its long-term future without the assistance of Mackay residents supporting their local performers onstage.

The Secret Garden is onstage at the MECC on Friday 4 September at 7.30pm, with two performances on Saturday 5 September at 2.00pm and 7.30pm.

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Michelle Wright and Ry Collins with Max Mitchell and Summer North of Soundzgood. Photos supplied: Summer North

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Bowen is getting another taste of festival life next weekend, with SoundzGood 2.0 bringing a diverse lineup of talent and a familiar face from Love Island Australia to town.

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Taking over the Bowen Sporting Complex on Saturday 22nd August, SoundzGood 2.0 follows last year’s debut at Flagstaff Hill, which drew around 450 ticket holders. This year, organisers are bringing everything onto one larger stage, with live artists and DJs covering everything from indie and R&B to house and electronic music.  

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“We’re putting it on for our Bowen community,” said event organiser Max Mitchell.

“This year will be bigger... more tickets have been sold.”

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“Expect a big stage and just a good atmosphere.”  

Behind the festival is SoundzGood Whitsundays, a Bowen-based production company now in its second year, bringing the sound, lighting, staging, big screens and full-scale production key moments.  

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Having already taken their production gear from the Stonker Fishing Challenge to weddings on Hayman Island, SoundzGood 2.0 gives the team a chance to build something of their own, right at home in Bowen.

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“We’re more or less showcasing what we can do as a production company, with a gig on top,” Max said.  

This year’s line-up brings a little bit of everything to Bowen, led by Love Island Australia 2025 contestant and DJ, Rossco, who’ll swap the villa for the decks with a house set.

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“He’ll bring a cheeky vibe to the festival,” the organiser said.

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Gold Coast singer-songwriter and triple j Unearthed High finalist Jacob Biermann will create a different pace with his live set, and is already an organiser favourite.

“Jacob Biermann’s my personal favourite, he's just an incredible vocalist,” said Max.  

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Airlie Beach live-loop artist Pluto Tango will make the trip north, while DJ Henasi from Brothas Entertainment brings the R&B and Nina Sinclair adds another dose of house and dance.

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There’ll also be a homecoming for Flaw Clinic, who made his DJ debut at Bowen’s Horseshoe Bay Café in 2022 before spending the past four years playing around Townsville.

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There’ll be more to SoundzGood than what’s happening on stage, with food vendors, games and a Photo Booth giving festivalgoers something to duck into and laugh about between sets. Ms Sippi will be serving its crowd-favourite espresso martinis, while last year’s popular slushies return alongside the bar to keep everyone chilled out.

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For the SoundzGood team, getting a festival of this size off the ground in Bowen has also relied on the local businesses and organisations getting behind it.

Jurgens Produce, Muscle Studio, Lowcock Builders, Port Denison Motor Inn and Whitsunday Regional Council are just some of the local names getting behind this year’s event, joined by Taylamaid Whitsundays Balloon Creation, Lehmann Print Solutions, LJ Hooker Bowen and Evolution Beauty as the festival heads into its second year.

“Thank you to them for helping us make cool things like this happen,” said Max.  

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There are few places that say “happy place” quite like Whitehaven Beach, this Photo of the Week from Megan Weir makes it easy to see why.

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Megan’s photo beautifully captures the popping turquoise waters and famous white sands that scream Whitehaven Beach, showcasing one of the Whitsundays’ most recognisable stretches of paradise.  

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The lone fedora resting on the sand adds a touch of humanity to the scene without commanding more attention than the nature around it. It’s clear why this is Megan’s “happy place”.

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I tip my hat to you, Megan, this is truly a hats-off photo!  

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For next week’s Photo of the Week, we’re changing colours and looking for your best snaps under the theme “Something Green”.  

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Public Interest In Marina. 150 People attended the information evening for the proposed Boat Haven Marina and hotel complex. Plans and an artists impression were on view. State MP Geoff Muntz said the development would boost tourism on the Whitsunday mainland.  

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Hold Up Robbery In Court. David Anthony Kear, charged with holding up NSW Bank in Airlie in April 1982 was brought to court. The robbery and getaway were carefully planned and constitute an interesting story culminating in West’s arrest at Moonee Valley Melbourne 4 years later.  

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Obituary, George Sax, a very old and gifted local identity died aged 94 years. George had been a great musician and a fantastic collector of shells.  

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State Liberal Leader Visit. Sir William Knox called in to Proserpine and predicted that ‘the sugar industry will remain around for a long time.’The Proserpine Mill became the third highest producer of sugar out of Australia’s 32 mills with an estimated tonnage of 1,100,000 tonnes.  

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Dental Health Week Poster Competition, commemorating 75 Years of Dental Health Service. Winners were Anthony Compston and Nils Thomsen, Cannonvale School, Theo Hart, Proserpine, and Craig Walding, Proserpine Special Unit.  

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‘The Local’ Bottle Shop: Benmore Scotch Whisky $11.99.  

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Fun Race Fever. Now a spectacular week in the Airlie Beach calendar and a serious source of revenue, growing from a bottle of rum wager between two local yachties ten years ago. The mardis gras, food stalls and carnival atmosphere is a rich fundraiser for local schools and clubs. Four weeks to fun in the third week in September.  

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The Professionals Real Estate; three bedroom, pantry and garage, a steal at $43,500.  

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Fausts Qmart; No 14 chicken $3.78, Streaky Bacon $4.79.  

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Airlie Bloods missing several of their best players went down in wet weather 115 to 46 to Mackay Cities.  

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Rugby Union. Local stars Ray Aldridge and Peter Chengody both had strong games for North Queensland against Brisbane.  

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League The Brahmans have to beat the reigning premiers Collinsville to bring the 1986 Whitsunday Grand final back to Proserpine  

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Collinsville Bacon Busters returns this Saturday 22^nd August, for another action-packed day of boars, bikes, entertainment and community spirit. Photo supplied

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Collinsville is gearing up for one of its biggest community events of the year, with the 2026 Collinsville Bacon Busters set to take over the Collinsville Football Grounds this Saturday 22^nd August.

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Celebrating “A Decade of Boars, Bands & Bikes”, this year’s event promises a full day and night of competition, entertainment and community spirit, with festivities kicking off from 9am.

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At the heart of the action will be the much-anticipated Bacon Busters boar competition and weigh-in, alongside a packed program featuring the popular bikekhana, touch football competition, dog jump, ute competition and iron man events.Market stalls, food, a licensed bar, entertainment and activities will keep spectators busy throughout the day, while younger attendees can also get involved through rides and a colouring competition.

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Entry for spectators is just a gold coin donation, helping organisers keep the event affordable and accessible for the wider community.

Behind all the fun is an important cause, with Bacon Busters organised as a not-for-profit event by the Collinsville State High School Parents and Citizens Association. For the past nine years, Bacon Busters has served as the P&C's major fundraiser, raising more than $300,000 to help broaden educational opportunities for students at Queensland's smallest standalone high school. Funds raised over the years have supported school camps and excursions, sporting equipment, outdoor seating, air conditioning, computers, the senior learning centre and the school's positive reward program.

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In 2026, fundraising efforts will continue to support the needs of students and staff, with a particular focus on technology.

Beyond supporting the school, Bacon Busters has grown into an event that brings the wider Collinsville community together for a day of friendly competition, entertainment and plenty of local pride.

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Those wanting to compete in the boar competition or bikekhana are encouraged to register ahead of Saturday, with bikekhana entry costing $5.

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What: 2026 Collinsville Bacon Busters
When: Saturday 22^nd August, 9am
Where: Collinsville Football Grounds, Collinsville

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Wendy Stapleton, Ally Mac and Georga Byrne. Photos supplied by Wendy Stapleton.

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A touch of Australian musical stardom is coming to Airlie Beach, as 80s rock favourite Wendy Stapleton and chart-topping husband Paul Norton turn back the clock for two afternoons revisiting the songs that filled Australian radios and dancefloors.

Taking over the Airlie Beach Hotel across the final weekend of August, Wendy Stapleton will bring two very different shows to the stage.  

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Saturday will see Wendy step into the world of Dusty Springfield, taking audiences through the life and music of one of the 60s, 70s and 80s most pronounced voices, with a show that has travelled stages across Australia, New Zealand and the UK.

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“That show takes you on a journey through Dusty’s life,” Wendy said.  

Then on Sunday, she’ll take the audience back to The Swinging Sixties, with classics from some of the decade’s favourite female artists, including Diana Ross and The Supremes, Petula Clark, Lulu, The Ronettes and, of course, Dusty Springfield.

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“We have a lot of fun, and of course we costume it so that we’re in wacky ’60s,” Wendy said.

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Both afternoons will then change gears for the final set, with Wendy and the band stepping switching to a collection of their favourite pop-rock songs.

These shows have been getting crowds moving for decades, with the Dusty Springfield show first beginning as a musical theatre production in Melbourne in the mid-1990s, before Wendy later created The Swinging Sixties around 15 years ago.  

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Long before stepping into the shoes of Dusty Springfield, Wendy had already made a name for herself in Australian music as the frontwoman of Wendy and the Rocketts.

Formed in the early 1980s when signed by Mushroom Records, Wendy and the Rocketts made their mark on Australia’s pub-rock scene, with singles Reputation, Your Place or Mine? and Wendy’s self-penned Play the Game all hitting the charts, while their debut studio album Dazed for Days broke into the Australian Top 30.  

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Their success eventually took Wendy well beyond Australian stages, with Wendy and the Rocketts heading overseas and touring through Europe alongside some names that would become giants of rock, including Bryan Adams and ZZ Top.

After years in rock and roll, Wendy eventually found her way back to musical theatre, something that wasn’t entirely new territory for a performer who had first appeared professionally on stage as a child.

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As Wendy puts it, her career has simply been about continuing to move with the times.

“You’ve just got to keep rolling with the changes, keep reinventing yourself,” she said.

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While the Dusty show originally grew from Wendy’s return to musical theatre in the mid-1990s, The Swinging Sixties was a creation of her own, born from a desire to bring together the female voices that helped define the decade.

Joining Wendy on stage will be Angie Stapleton, Ally Mac and John Arthur Grant, with live guitar and keyboard accompanying the vocals and dancing. Angie performed in the original Dusty production, while Wendy’s daughter Ally joins her cousin as one of the show’s singer-dancers.

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Completing the line-up is another name Australian music fans might remember, Wendy’s husband and chart-topping musician Paul Norton.  

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Paul got his start playing bass as a teenager before helping form Melbourne band The Runners, who built a strong following on the pub circuit and signed with Mushroom Records in 1981. The band went on to release singles including Sure Fire Thing and Endlessly, along with their 1983 album Hitting the Wall, while touring heavily throughout the early ’80s.

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After The Runners, Paul spent time playing with Wendy and the Rocketts and Steve Hoy and the Hoy Boys before launching his solo career in 1988, again signing with Mushroom Records.

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His biggest break came with Stuck On You, which received strong radio play and climbed to #2 on the Australian charts. The success was followed by a trip to London to record I Got You and his debut album Under a Southern Sky, before he later worked with American musician and producer T-Bone Wolk on his second album, Let It Fly.

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These days, much of Paul’s work happens away from the rock stage as Musical Director for the Australian Shakespeare Company, writing music for theatre productions in Australia and abroad.

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“I’ve always been a songwriter, so I’ve always loved to do that,” he said.

Paul has joined Wendy for the shows over the past couple of years when time allows, and in Airlie he’ll return to his rock roots for the final set, performing a few of his own songs, including his hit Stuck On You.

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“If I’m in the audience and I go and see an act that I really like, you kind of want them to do the hit songs that they’re known for,” Paul said.  

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What: Dusty Springfield Tribute and Swinging Sixties shows

When: Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th August, 2pm-5.30pm

Where: Airlie Beach Hotel

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