Win Gleeso’s Ultimate Party in Paradise!

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.

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Country Festival 2025

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.

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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

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Relive the magic of The Seekers with Keith Potger’s July performance at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (Photo Supplied)

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Get ready for a night of soulful singing, slick dance moves, and comedic antics as the Gold Coast-based sensation, Geed UP, hits the stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel on Saturday, July 19th & Sunday, July 20th.

Geed UP have performed at the Airlie Beach Hotel numerous times, and every time Khan, Steve, Liz, and Xy, promise an unforgettable, high-energy performance that defies expectations.

You may recognise Liz and Xy in Geed UP from TV. Both featured on The Voice Australia and became favourites for their great vocals and on stage presence.

Xy got all judges in his blind audition whilst Liz managed to perfect her singing range by having Seal as a coach.

Now both of them are in Geed UP and they have perfected their act in this unmissable show.

Known for their vocal versatility, polished harmonies, and a dynamic fusion of soul, funk, edge, and class, this Brisbane-based act blends old and new music with captivating hip-hop, breakdancing, and even acrobatic choreography.

Audiences can expect a show that’s not only musically rich but also filled with laughter, promising a truly fun time suitable for the whole family.

People who have seen Geed UP before, don’t worry, you won’t have seen this performance. Every show Geed UP put on they provide a fresh, authentic and unique viewing experience.

Their primary goal is to get audiences laughing and dancing to popular hits spanning all eras.

Geed UP's unique show is influenced by all genres of music from ABBA to Tupac and their New Zealand cultural roots, creating a vibrant and engaging experience.

This high-energy performance delivers its distinctive charm, crafting a memorable experience suitable for every age group and it is a show you have to see live.

The show coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel has been called the ‘WORST SHOW EVER’ after receiving comments about their performances.

“THE BEST WORST SHOW EVER THE END”

“THE WHOLE PACKAGE, THESE GUYS ARE NEXT LEVEL”

“WE’VE BEEN AROUND THE WORLD AND THIS IS THE BEST SHOW WE’VE EVER SEEN”

“NEVER LAUGHED SO HARD IN MY LIFE”

Is this the worst show ever? Geed UP say there is only one way to find out.

Don't miss your chance to experience the comedic and show-stopping spectacle at the Airlie Beach Hotel.

WHAT: Geed UP
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 19 July 2PM - 5.30PM & Sunday 20 July 2PM - 5.30PM

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July

4 Ice Age 1, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

6 NAIDOC Week, 6th – 13th

6 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

7 NAIDOC Flag Raising Ceremony & March, Bowen Town Square. Herbert Street, 8:00am-12:00pm

9 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

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, (call 04 3846 0050 for more info)

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

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Friday 4th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
KC's: Jason Bull (from 8pm)

Saturday 5th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Ahri (1pm – 6pm)
KC's: Jason Bull (from 8pm)

Sunday 6th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Pluto Tango (2pm – 6pm)
Colonial Palms Motor Inn: Jazz on the Deck with Nick di Gregorio and Scotty Wilson (2pm - 5pm)
KC's: Nick di Gregorio (from 8pm)

Monday 7th July
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Tuesday 8th July
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Wednesday 9th July
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Thursday 10th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Sing On Social (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Nick di Gregorio (from 8pm)

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With Boots, Bulls & Big Tunes

Country Fest Queensland kicks off this weekend, and all roads lead to the Mackay region for one of the country’s most exciting regional events. Gates open Thursday for campers, with the festival firing up that evening with a boot-stompin’ Honky Tonk Kick-Off Party — setting the stage for a high-energy weekend of music, community, and good ol’ fashioned fun.

This year, Country Fest QLD is pulling out all the stops. From kids rides and food eating competitions (can anyone beat Jimmy Judge?) to the Best Mullet on Grounds competition, there's something for the whole family to enjoy.

But the real headline is the all-star lineup featuring a mix of American and Aussie country royalty including Randy Houser, Max McNown, Casey Barnes, James Johnston, Shannon Noll, Tori Darke, Wade Forster, and more, plus local legends like Luke Geiger, Mack Geiger, Route 33, and Shaun Diver.

Adding even more excitement, the festival will host the debut of the PBR Bull Ride on Saturday night — bringing edge-of-your-seat rodeo action that promises to be a major crowd favourite.

From live music and market stalls to great food and unforgettable moments under the stars, Country Fest QLD celebrates everything we love about life in the bush.

Two-day and single-day festival tickets are still available online or at the gate. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it! Head to Countryfest.com.au for tickets and more info.

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Country Fest Queensland is always a fantastic show, get your tickets now. Photo supplied

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Get ready, Airlie Beach. A high-energy piano party is heading this way, and it promises to be unlike anything you’ve seen before.

After almost a year of wowing crowds across the country, this interactive sing-along show known as Sing On Social is making its debut at the Airlie Beach Hotel.

The concept, created and performed by Tim Sponder, mixes all the classic party anthems into one epic mash-up.

“I make a mash up of all the great, classic songs, and all the lyrics come up on big screens,” he explained.

“Everybody is into it straight away. All the songs are classic songs, so everybody knows what the songs are.

“It’s a pretty high energy show.”

The show includes songs like Livin’ on a Prayer, Dancing Queen, Piano Man, some modern songs and some classic rock and Aussie rock.

Tim mixes the songs all together, some tracks are 90 seconds long, some are shorter some are longer. He grabs the best parts of the biggest tracks, mashes them together and creates a show.

Tim draws inspiration from the vibrant piano bars of Norway and combines it with his experience in London’s pub and club scene as a manager.

Tim said it’s nice to be back performing.

“It's sort of like going back to your roots and that’s always a good thing isn’t it,” he said.

“I have sort of hopped back on the piano, as opposed to behind a computer screen, which is really good. And I'm very excited about where it's headed.”

Airlie Beach locals can expect a late-night session packed with good vibes, a thumping stomp box beat, and a soundtrack of crowd favourites. And while this may be the artist’s first time playing in Airlie, the anticipation is high.

“I know it’s a cracking venue, and everyone says Airlie Beach is always up for a party. I’m looking forward to getting there and getting this party started,” said Tim.

After Airlie, the performer is heading back to the UK for a string of summer festivals but not before turning up the volume in the Whitsundays.

If you’re ready to belt out the classics, don’t miss the Sing On Social at the Airlie Beach Hotel where the lyrics are on screen, the energy is contagious, and the good times are guaranteed.

What: Sing On Social
Where: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Thursday 1 July (6.30PM - 9.30PM)
Friday 11 July (7PM - 10PM)
Saturday 12 July (7PM - 10PM)
Sunday 13 July (6.30PM - 9.30PM)

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June

27 Legends Night by Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, Reef Gateway Hotel, 6pm - 9pm

29 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

July

1 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

4 Ice Age 1, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

6 NAIDOC Week, 6th – 13th

6 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

7 NAIDOC Flag Raising Ceremony & March, Bowen Town Square. Herbert Street, 8:00am-12:00pm

9 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

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, (call 04 3846 0050 for more info)

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

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Friday 27th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Hannah Roberts (from 8pm)
KC's: Corey Harris (from 8pm)

Saturday 28th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Back to the 70's & 80's (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Hannah Roberts (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Sugarlips (1pm – 6pm)
KC's: Dallas Steele (from 8pm)

Sunday 29th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Back to the 70's & 80's (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Josiah Samuels (6.30 – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Hannah Roberts (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Ash Smith (2pm – 6pm)
KC's: Loui Battour (from 8pm)

Monday 30th June
KC's: Ronny Croker (from 8pm)

Tuesday 1st July
KC's: Ronny Croker (from 8pm)

Wednesday 2nd July
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Thursday 3rd July
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

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On Tuesday evening Eastwoods Dining in Airlie Beach hosted a lively fundraising event, during which local author Sandy Clark launched her latest book titled ‘Anyone Can Become a Princess’, donating all proceeds to charity.

Sandy has lived in Airlie Beach for eight years, but her ties to Zambia run deep. Her latest book is a memoir about her life in Zambia. She lived there as a young woman, her husband grew up in the region, and in 2019 she helped open a hospital in one of the country’s poorest and most remote areas. Since its opening, the hospital has safely delivered more than 3,500 babies, a remarkable achievement in a place that once had no roads, electricity or running water.

The evening’s event combined a fundraising auction with the launch of her memoir, which every attendee received as a gift. The book reflects on more than 20 years of volunteering, both abroad and at home in Australia, including local work with the Whitsunday Housing Company to support older homeless women.

“The book is all about volunteering,” Sandy said.

“The story behind the book is about when I started out, the direction I went in, and why I became a volunteer, and the book's been written to encourage other people to take on volunteering.

“I think it's a very humbling thing to do, and it brings all sorts of rewards.”

Her dedication to Zambia has been recognised in a very personal way, Sandy was named a princess by the tribal chief of the village where the hospital was built, a gesture that inspired the book’s title.

Now approaching her 78th birthday, Sandy says this will be her final fundraiser but not the end of her mission.

“I'll continue on, but I won’t be running events anymore,” she said.

“I'll apply for grants, I'll knock on doors, and I'll ask people to help provide support in future.

“I have to do things in a different way, it’s been the busiest year of my life. I've just done a fundraiser in Africa, a big one in Adelaide, and now here with this book launch and my husband says it’s time to slow down.”

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Co-owner of Eastwoods Jack Mason, Author Sandy Clark, and Co-owner of Eastwoods Kirsty Mason. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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“I’m bored,” said every kid, every school holidays.

Local, family-friendly activities that don’t break the bank can feel few and far between these days! That’s why Dunes Harbour Beach is excited to bring Coastal Kids back to Mackay this July. Start the school holidays with this local FREE community event happening Wednesday 2 July from 9am to 12pm. We can’t wait to bring the community together once again – save the date in your calendar!

Following the fantastic community response from the previous Coastal Kids event, we’re bringing it back again these school holidays. Create wholesome family memories with engaging outdoor, kid-friendly activities. Snap some fun pics for the photo album with everyone’s favourite – face painting! We’ll also be firing up the beachside barbecue for a classic Aussie sausage sizzle. We’ve even got your coffee cravings covered, with our talented baristas brewing all morning – enjoy a caffeinated parent pick-me-up on us!

Bringing vibrant vibes and a dance-worthy playlist, local radio legend Jake from HitFM will be broadcasting all the fun live. Don’t miss the exciting on-air giveaways happening throughout the morning!

Held at the picturesque Dunes Harbour Beach, with ocean views and lush open lawns, there’s plenty of space for the little ones to run around – and yes, it’s pet-friendly too, so bring the whole family (four-legged members included). We’ve got it all planned – put your feet up and take the morning off at one of Mackay’s most iconic coastal locations, Dunes Harbour Beach, located on Sol Drive next to the Community Square.

We’ll see you on Wednesday 2 July from 9am to 12pm for this unmissable free event connecting with the community, proudly hosted by Dunes Harbour Beach.

For more details, visit www.dunesharbourbeach.com.au.

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Dunes Harbour Beach is bringing back Coastal Kids this July 2 with a free, fun-filled morning of family activities, live radio, sausage sizzles, face painting and more! Photos supplied

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Friday 27th June

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

Farm Fun Open Day For Under 5’s
9.30am
Enjoy a special morning of story time, farm-themed fun, and hands-on learning at Absolutely 4 Kids, Level 1, 6/25 River Street. Designed especially for children aged 2 to 5, the event includes activity stations, giveaways, and a guest reading by author Nikki Townley, sharing her book No Drama Cane Farmer. Discover the Foundations 4 Prep Program or simply enjoy a playful outing with your little ones.
Absolutely 4 Kids – 6/25 River Street (Level 1)

Free Friday Guided Walks
10am
Join a Friday Guided Walk at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and discover the unique plants and features of this beautiful space. Led by experienced Gardens Guides, the walks run every Friday (excluding public holidays) from 10am to 11am at a relaxed pace. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre opposite the café. Don’t forget your hat, water bottle and comfy shoes. A free and informative outing for nature lovers.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

CASA Monthly BBQ
10am
Join CASA for a relaxed morning of good food and great company at their monthly BBQ. Meet out the front of the CASA Office from 10am and enjoy a freshly cooked sausage while connecting with staff and community members. Bring a friend, bring a smile, and enjoy the conversation.
4/54 Gregory Street, 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 28th June

Breakfast Ride
7.15am
A group of local motorcycle enthusiasts will gather for a Breakfast Ride on Saturday, 28 June, departing from Mackay Harley-Davidson at 7:15am. Open to riders of all experience levels, the ride promises a morning of camaraderie, community spirit, and open-road adventure. Participants are encouraged to arrive early, fueled up and ready for the journey.
26 Peel Street, Mackay

Food Forrest Fest
10am
The Mackay Community Gardens will bloom to life with the fourth annual Food Forest Fest, a vibrant day of art, kids’ craft, live music, permaculture displays, tree and flower planting, and tropical food. Set along the Pioneer River, the event invites the community to explore sustainable living while enjoying hands-on activities and garden-inspired fun. All donations collected on the day will support the continued growth and development of the community garden.
7 Sarah Street, Mackay

Country Fest Queensland
4pm
June 27th and 28th
Country Fest 2025 returns 27–28 June with two huge days of country music and rodeo action. Saturday features Casey Barnes, Tori Darke, Wade Forster, Route 33, and Mack & Cade Geiger, plus the PBR Australian Touring Pro Division in the Bull Pit. A secret US headliner for both nights will be revealed in February. Friday includes James Johnston, Shannon Noll, and more. Two-day tickets only, now on sale at www.countryfest.com.au.
Dittmann Bull Pit (Bloomsbury, QLD)

Sunday 29th June

Social Choccie Milk Run & Ocean Swim
6.30am
Start Sunday with a social run or walk followed by an ocean swim and coffee at Mackay Harbour Beach. Meet at the Surf Club at 6.20am for a 6.30am run, or 7.30am for a 7.40am swim. Open to all fitness levels, it's a relaxed and friendly morning of movement, sea breezes and conversation.
Harbour Beach

QUENDO Meet
9am
Connect over coffee with Mackay facilitator Scout at QENDO’s face-to-face support group, QENDOMeets. Open to anyone affected by endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS or infertility, the meet-up offers a safe and understanding space to share stories, explore treatment strategies, and find support from others who understand the challenges of chronic pelvic pain and reproductive health.
Curb, 8 Windmill Crossing Glenella

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 30th June

Nibble and Dabble – FREE Kids Painting
9.30am
Creative kids can paint, snack and play at the free Nibble & Dabble Art Party at Caneland Central these school holidays. Running from 30 June to 4 July, this guided 90-minute session invites little artists to explore their imaginations in a relaxed studio-style space outside Myer. Three sessions are available daily at 9.30am, 11.30am and 1.30pm. Bookings are essential. Visit: canelandcentral.com.au
Caneland Central Food Court (Outside Myer)

Parent Circle
10am
Every Monday at 10am, parents and caregivers are invited to gather for a free, welcoming Parent Circle. This judgement-free space offers open conversations, shared experiences, and practical parenting tips—plus tea, coffee, and time for little ones to enjoy the play centre. Entry is $8 per child (please advise staff if attending), while non-crawlers and adults without children attend free. Staff will supervise play while parents connect in a supportive, judgement-free environment. Whether you’re seeking advice, connection, or just a friendly chat, Parent Circle is here for you.
Cheeky Little Monkeys, 118 Wood Street, Mackay

Tuesday 1st July

Young Engineers Winter Workshops In Mackay
9am
Young Engineers workshops return to Mackay these school holidays with a two-day STEM program on July 1–2. Designed for students in Years 1 to 9, the hands-on sessions explore science and engineering through LEGO, motors and sensors. Age-specific programs ensure tailored learning for all participants. Limited spots available. Bookings are essential via trybooking.com
CQUniversity Ooralea

Thursday 3rd July

Mackay Motor Show Opening Cane City Cruze
5pm
Get ready to rev up for the Mackay Motor Show with a high-octane cruise, kicking off the event in style. Hosted by the Mackay Rod and Custom Club, the cruise will depart from the Showgrounds following a 6pm drivers’ briefing at the Clubhouse. Arrivals from 5pm. Full cruise details coming soon. This unique celebration aims to fuel excitement ahead of one of Mackay’s biggest and best motor shows yet—and if it’s a hit, expect even more in 2027.
Mackay Rod and Custom Club House, (in the Mackay Showgrounds)

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With Nedd Brockmann At Whitsunday Voices Festival

Tickets are now available for one of the most anticipated events on Mackay’s cultural calendar – the DBI Literary Dinner, headlined by Australian trailblazer, homelessness advocate, and larrikin with a mission, Nedd Brockmann.

Held as part of the 2025 Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival, the dinner will take place on Friday 18 July at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC), inviting the wider community to a powerful evening of storytelling, resilience, and inspiration.

Guests will enjoy a beautifully curated three-course meal under the glittering lights of the MECC, a compelling keynote by Nedd Brockmann, and live music to round out an unforgettable evening.

Nedd captured national attention when he ran 4,000 km across Australia in just 46 days, raising millions to help end homelessness.

His story has since been featured in the hit Netflix documentary RUNN, which reached the platform’s global Top 10, and his debut book Fire Up continues to inspire Australians nationwide.

Grit, heart, and a cause – Nedd Brockmann is the inspiration we all need.

“I want people to understand that they don’t need to have it all figured out to make a difference,” Nedd said.

“I didn’t have a plan – I just started running with purpose. That’s what I want to share at Whitsunday Voices: the power of showing up, digging deep, and helping others along the way.”

Festival Manager Liz Russell said this year’s Literary Dinner promises to be one of the Festival’s most powerful yet.

“Nedd’s story speaks to perseverance, generosity and using your platform for good,” she said.

“He’s real, relatable and raw – and that’s exactly what makes his message resonate so strongly.”

Now in its 21st year, Whitsunday Voices is the largest youth literature festival in regional Queensland, welcoming over 7,500 students and hosting more than 80 events across 17–18 July 2025.

Don’t miss your chance to hear Nedd Brockmann live and be part of a night that celebrates the power of purpose.

The Whitsunday Voices Festival proudly acknowledges the support of its Major Festival Partner and Key Partners: Daly Bay, Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure, BHP/BMA, Whitehaven, Mackay Regional Council, and Whitsunday Anglican School.

Tickets to the DBI Literary Dinner are limited and on sale now at: whitsundayvoices.com.au

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Tickets are now on sale for the DBI Literary Dinner featuring Nedd Brockmann, whose incredible 4,000km run across Australia to fight homelessness captured a nation and inspired a global audience. Photo supplied

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The Father is a powerful and deeply affecting play by Florian Zeller, translated into English by  Christopher Hampton. Hailed as "the most acclaimed new play of the last decade" following its premiere in September 2012, The Father explores the unsettling experience of dementia through the eyes of André, an aging man whose grasp on reality is steadily deteriorating.

This powerful and intriguing psychological drama is now coming to Kucom Theatre for a two-week season, opening on 4 September.

Director Victor Scott, whose directing credits for Kucom include When the Rain Stops Falling (2021) and Things I Know To Be True (2023), has assembled an impressive cast featuring Geoff Stewart-McLean as André, with Anzjuli Venter, Gordon Lowe, Sarah Nievandt, Michael Brennan, and Asta Ryan.

Early Bird bookings for The Father will open on Monday 23 June for one week only.

Bookings can be made via humantix.com. For all accessible seating and Companion Card purchases, please contact the Kucom bookings team on 0419756840.

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The Father, a powerful play by Florian Zeller about dementia, opens at Kucom Theatre on 4 September, directed by Victor Scott with a talented cast. Early Bird bookings start 23 June for one week. Image supplied

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