Mark Seymour, Conrad Sewell, Nathan Cavaleri and more, complete main stage lineup for 2026

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The final line-up for the Airlie Beach Festival of Music 2026 has just been released and Hunters and Collectors frontman Mark Seymour says he is dreaming of escaping the Melbourne winter, wishing he was already on the main stage at November 6-8 event.

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Freshly announced with Conrad Sewell, Nathan Cavaleri, and Luke O’Shea, and completing this year’s main stage lineup alongside Xavier Rudd, Mental As Anything, The Whitlams, and more, Seymour is no stranger to what is arguably Australia’s most scenic festival, having performed in its waterfront big-top-tent back in 2014.  

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“Think sunshine, beach, short trousers, open-toe shoes – it’s incredibly beautiful and a pretty unique part of the world, but my brain immediately goes to the songs that I played and the fact that there’s a lot of people who live there permanently, and you can’t underestimate that,” he said.  

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“Sure, people travel there for a particular reason, but Airlie Beach is also a township with a very strong local contingent of people who will be looking forward to seeing live Australian music in their area – it’s that colloquial community feeling and you can sense it when you walk on stage.”  

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With two albums and more than a decade under his belt since that last performance at Queensland’s premier ‘party in paradise’, Seymour is promising a “significantly updated set”.  

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“But I’m always very cognisant of the songs people want to hear as well,” he said, referencing hits now etched into the musical story of the nation like ‘Talking to a Stranger’, ‘Throw Your Arms Around Me’ and ‘The Holy Grail’.  

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Chart-topper Conrad Sewell is also primed to add some signature tunes to the mix, including his juggernaut Kygo collaboration, ‘Firestone’, and platinum hit ‘Healing Hands’.  

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Like Seymour, Sewell is a repeat visitor to the Whitsundays, but this will be his first Airlie Beach Festival of Music in a Coral Sea setting he describes as “hard to beat”.  

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“Music festivals in places like Airlie become more than just gigs – they turn into memories with your mates in incredible locations,” he said.  

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“Just come ready for a good time and I promise we’ll make it a special night.”

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Meanwhile, Nathan Cavaleri, the former child prodigy whose talents became the focus of a bidding war between the record labels of Michael Jackson, Madonna and Prince, cites energy, presence, and human connection as qualities he’ll be bringing to the event.  

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Despite performing with the likes of B.B. King, Etta James and Bonnie Raitt, Cavaleri has remained grounded in his roots, which included childhood visits to the Whitsundays with family and Schoolies celebrations on Hamilton Island.  

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“I’ve never played Airlie Beach Festival of Music though – I actually feel like everyone I know has played this festival except me, so I definitely had FOMO, and when I got the news that they were keen to have me I was pretty stoked,” he said.  

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“It’s been a while since I’ve played a tropical summer type festival so I’m very much looking forward to it, and (since I’m usually solo) I’m thrilled that my last full band gig for 2026 is going to be Airlie Beach.  

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“You can expect we’re going to bring some victorious big stage energy and we’re probably going to enjoy it afterwards in the same way as everybody else! We’re not just going to do our job and walk away – we’re gonna be with you guys the whole way.”  

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Asked why music lovers should still part with hard-earned cash to travel to festivals and see artists in the flesh – even in these undeniably tough economic times – Cavaleri’s response was that “festivals like this are anchored to what’s important”.  

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“This goes beyond just entertainment, it’s food for the soul,” he said.  

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Other new additions to the 2026 line-up include Ben Ransom, Mike Elrington, Nicky Bomba’s ‘Bustamento’, Chris Webbe, Mak and Shar, Dillion James, and more, joining previously announced acts including The Radiators, Adam Harvey, 19-Twenty, Skinny Living (UK), Little Quirks, The Mason Rack Band, The Wayward Suns, Loonaloop, Salt & Steel and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2025 Passport to Airlie competition winners, Monroe.  

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In total, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music features 60-plus acts, spread throughout 15 venues and the iconic main stage at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.  

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Tickets are on sale now at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au costing $340 for a three-day pass, or $1,200 for a VIP package, both including entry to the opening and after parties that bookend the main event.  

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WHAT: Airlie Beach Festival of Music

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club
WHEN: November 6-8

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Lily with her mother Alison behind the counter at Fiorella Florals at 28 George Street, Bowen. Photo source: Fiorella Florals

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A Bowen florist has blossomed onto the statewide stage after being crowned Queensland's Best Florist in the Queensland Day 2026 All the Best Awards.

Queenslanders were invited to support their favourite local businesses through the awards, casting a record-breaking 74,630 votes across 15 categories in the lead-up to Queensland Day.

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The win places Fiorella Florals among a select group of businesses recognised as the best in the state, with owner Lily describing the achievement as both unexpected and deeply rewarding.

"It was a such a surreal feeling," she said.

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"I was just happy that we even made it onto the leaderboard let alone winning. I am super proud of us, and so grateful to have such an amazing community backing us. This award makes the years of training, dedication, stress and all that comes with running a business all worth it."

Lily founded Fiorella Florals in 2022 after spending more than a decade building her skills in the industry. Beginning her floristry journey at just 13 years old, she went on to complete Certificates III and IV in Floristry, work as a floral designer on Hayman Island, gain experience at the Toowoomba Flower Market and attend international floral seminars in Croatia.

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After returning home to Bowen in 2020, she turned her dream of owning a florist into reality, creating a business focused on helping people celebrate milestones and navigate life's difficult moments through flowers.

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Lily believes the award reflects the strong support of the local community that has followed her journey from the beginning.

"Winning this award really reflects the trust and support from our beautiful customers," she said.

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"Bowen is a small rural town and we don't have a huge amount of services that some people are used to in the bigger cities. We pride ourselves in always being kind, down to earth and we really get to know our customers.

"I'm a Bowen gal, which means a lot of my customers have actually watched me grow up, from when I first started my career in floristry at 13 years old to opening my own store at 23 years old, and I think that is pretty special."

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Since opening, Fiorella Florals has grown from a market stall and shared retail space into its own storefront at 28 George Street, now offering flowers, gifts, coffee and ice cream alongside its floral designs.

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Reflecting on the journey, Lily said building the business had been both challenging and rewarding.

"Running my own store has always been a dream but I never thought I would actually be able to pull it off," she said.

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"Entering the world of small business has had its challenges and there is no 'how to' manual. It is stressful, exhausting, and probably one of the hardest things I have ever had to teach myself. At the end of the day, it is so rewarding. I am incredibly passionate and love what I do.

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"I love being able to bring comfort to those in the form of flowers, through all of life's special moments."

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Confidence in Mill’s Purchase of Wanderers. Shareholders of the Sugar Mill returned a vote of confidence in the acquisition of Whitsunday Wanderer’s Tourist Resort despite the Mill’s disappointing year of crushing with 90,000 tonnes of cane left in the field and what was described as a ‘dismal’ first year with the resort.

Cane Maturing. Proserpine cane crop is maturing well with sugar content up two units compared to 1985. Starting date for crushing will be June 17^th.

Horrific Car Collision. A Mackay woman was killed instantly, 14 kilometres North of Proserpine when she lost control while manoeuvring around a deep pothole when her vehicle was thrown into the path of a semi-trailer.

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Obituary

Margaret Jean Hiscox, an old resident of Myrtle Creek passed away in the Townsville Hospital.

John Malcolm Milne, a well known district farmer from North Gregory died peacefully at home.

Racing Club Proposal. Support from the Minister For Racing was being sought. In past years three racing clubs have existed in the area. One at Breadalbane flourished until a strange day when a galloping horse disappeared on the track behind some trees and was not the same one that came into view at the other side.

P.J.R.L.Proserpine teams travelled to play St. Mary’s Junior Rugby League and recorded good wins in Under 11s, Under 13s and Under 15s.

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$9 Million For Highway. Work planned for the Mackay-Bowen section included bridges over Myrtle and Deadman’s Creeks.

Fourteen Years Of Blue Nursing. The annual doorknock appeal for this Christian Outreach of the Uniting Church was led by Sisters Doreen Wesley and Denise Hobson. Last year 4,892 clients were visited. Services are without charge so they rely on donations.

Opposition To Miss Figurehead Contest. Organisers of Airlie Beach Fun Race were reminded of the promotion of the region as a family resort destination.

Fun Run 1986. The semi marathon  25.4 kilometres race from Fausts Corner to Whitsunday Wanderers was contested by eleven 8 person relay teams and ten individuals, three of whom beat all the relay teams. First junior home was local runner Shane Matthews.

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High School Musical. The production of “Dracular Baby”will take place in August. Full scale rehearsals are taking place now.

Palm Grove Reunion. Over 70 former pupils attended the reunion of Palm Grove School in Upper Conway which closed 34 years ago. The second of two schools was opened in 1926 under Fred Clowes, an amazing teacher with two artificial legs from above the knee amputations.

Skipper Returns. Former skipper of the “Island Wanderer” and “Whitsunday Wanderer” Bob Jenkins returned to Daydream Island on a trip to promote “The Yellow Submarine”. Over 60 travel agents attended .

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Special Education Students enjoyed a visit to Seagulls Restaurant and Mandalay Watersports learning about commercial kitchens and then boating skills with their teacher Pat Miller.

A.R.L. Three members of Airlie Beach Bloods, Darren Short, Mark Bland and Trevor Bennett have been selected for the Mackay representative team in the North Queensland Championships in Cairns this weekend.

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Whitsunday Sailing Club Trophy Night. Club Champions were: Nick Harris and Steven Thynne[Sabots], Peter Chengody [Lazers], Adam Raleigh and Peter Demartini [Presidents Trophy]

Knight Attack. Whitsunday Soccer Club teams both won in Mackay this weekend They are now league leaders in the Second Division and lying second in the first division after winning 9-1.

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Healthy Night For Netball. The netball season is progressing well with Sea Eagles and Veterans teams and a total of ten junior teams participating regularly, some healthy fundraising taking place and eleven girls passing an umpiring exam.

League. Brahmans beat the Miners 10-8 in Collinsville

Union. Raider beat City’s Mackay  30-0

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Tennis. Team leaders A Grade- Scotfords , Reserve Grade -Slammers.

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This week’s winner is Alissa Tomlinson for the theme Australian Bush

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Alissa’s photo of an adult and a young Tawny Frogmouth was taken at Hydeaway Bay.

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Next week’s theme is “Lights” – you can get involved in the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers Facebook Group.  

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More than 200 members of Mackay's business community gathered at the Mackay Turf Club on Friday night to celebrate the achievements of local businesses, organisations and individuals at the 2026 Best in Business Awards.

Hosted by the Mackay Region Chamber of Commerce, the annual awards recognise excellence, innovation and leadership across a range of industries, while highlighting the people helping drive the region's economic success.

Among the night's winners was Mackay Safety, which took home the Ground Breaker Award, while The Bookish Burrow was recognised as the Next Big Thing. The Neighbourhood Hub received the It's Not Easy Being Green Award and Crossroad Arts Inc was honoured with the Heart of Gold Award.

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M&P Services – Quality Transportable Buildings was named the winner of the Legacy Legends category, while Jade McAuley of RebelNation claimed the Mover of Mountains Award. iQ Solutions Queensland rounded out the winners list, taking home the Small But Mighty Award.

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The event was supported by category sponsors including Telstra, SBB Partners, North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation, Frontrow, Community Bank Sarina, CQUniversity Australia and Mackay Regional Council.

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Guests also heard from keynote speaker Bill Ovenden from The Lad Collective, who encouraged attendees to think bigger, act boldly and embrace new opportunities.

The evening was attended by Queensland Small Business Commissioner Nicolle Kelly and featured event styling by Element Events by Ramona.

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The Chamber thanked nominees, finalists, sponsors, judges and guests for contributing to what was described as a night of celebration, inspiration and community pride.

The awards continue to shine a spotlight on the businesses and individuals helping make the Mackay region stronger, smarter and more successful.

See more photos here: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/mackay-businesses-celebrated-at-2026-best-in-business-awards

Cast and crew at Kucom Theatre are hard at work preparing for next month’s production of Waiting for God. Photo supplied

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The countdown is on at Kucom Theatre, where cast and crew are hard at work rehearsing for the upcoming production of the much-loved British comedy Waiting for God.

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Bringing the beloved television series into the modern era, the stage adaptation follows sharp-witted retiree Diana Trent and newcomer Tom Ballard as they join forces to outsmart the conniving manager of Bayview Retirement Village, leading to a hilarious chain of events with some unexpectedly heartwarming results.

Packed with wit, charm and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, the production explores the realities of growing older in the age of technology while celebrating friendship, resilience and the power of community.

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Behind the scenes, excitement is building as the cast and crew put the finishing touches on the show ahead of opening night.

Waiting for God takes to the stage at Kucom Theatre in Andergrove from June 18^th, with performances running across multiple dates.

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What? Waiting For God
When? From June 18^th  
Where? Kucom Theatre

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Leanne McNaught is part of the sales team at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied

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Leanne McNaught is part of the sales team at Blacks Real Estate, working with buyers and sellers across Mackay’s growing property market.

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As a Sales Consultant with the long-established Mackay agency, Leanne is helping clients navigate residential property transactions throughout the region.

Blacks Real Estate has built a strong presence in Mackay and Dysart, servicing residential, commercial, rural and industrial clients with a focus on local knowledge and personalised service.

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With offices on Wood Street in Mackay and at Dysart Garden Plaza, the agency continues to support property owners and buyers across the wider region.

Leanne can be contacted on 0456 056 744.

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Sunday 14^th June marks the 83^rd anniversary of Australia’s worst air disaster with the 41 passengers and aircrew aboard.

The aircraft, a Boeing B-17C, was a converted former bomber, after being reconfigured for use in the transport role, having seen service in the Pacific area of operations during World War 2.

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American soldiers were brought to Australia from New Guinea for rest and relaxation leave, and this aircraft had conveyed a full compliment of these troops to Mackay a few weeks prior to the crash.  Extensive maintenance had been carried out to this battle-weary B-17, including replacement of a fuel tank and 2 of the 4 engines in the time leading up to the fateful flight.

A memorial ceremony will be held at the Bakers Creek monument in the grounds of the Community Hall, on Sunday 7^th June, commencing at 2.45pm. to commemorate the lives lost.

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Flags of the 23 American home states of those who perished will be a feature of the ceremony, and cadets of 105 (City of Mackay) Squadron Australian Air Force Cadets will parade and form the Honour Guard, as they have done annually, since the unveiling and dedication in May 1992.  

Students from local schools will contribute musical items and a fly past from the Mackay Tiger Moth Museum aircraft will provide an aerial salute.

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WHAT: Memorial at Bakers Creek Monument

WHERE: Community Hall

WHEN: Sunday 7^th June at 2.45pm

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Dominick Hawkes, founder of Oz-E Wild Adventures, uses photography and videography to showcase Australia’s unique nocturnal wildlife. Photo source: Oz-E Wild Adventures

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Inspired by the wildlife documentaries he watched growing up in Canada, Mackay’s Dominick Hawkes now spends his nights exploring the Australian bush in search of elusive native species to photograph through his wildlife platform, Oz-E Wild Adventures.

“The sudden shift from freezing Canadian winters to the vibrant, sun-drenched atmosphere of the Southern Hemisphere instantly opened my eyes and sparked a deep want for adventure,” Mr Hawkes said.

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Driven by a fascination with the nocturnal world, Mr Hawkes ventures out after dark to capture some of Australia’s rarest and most elusive creatures in their natural habitats, from cryptic pythons to gliders and native reptiles rarely seen by most people.

Through his photography and videography, he hopes to inspire greater appreciation and understanding of Australia’s wildlife and the importance of protecting the habitats they rely on.

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“Every habitat in Australia is vital because our ecosystems are deeply interconnected, and an incredible 87 per cent of our mammals and 93 per cent of our reptiles exist nowhere else on Earth,” he said.

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“When deforestation occurs, it doesn’t just clear trees; it destroys ancient, irreplaceable evolutionary lineages and drives unique species toward extinction.”

Mr Hawkes said wildlife photography involved far more than simply waiting for the perfect shot, often requiring long hikes through the bush carrying equipment, tracking signs of animal activity and spending hours searching remote areas at night.

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“It’s trekking for miles with water and food while tracking signs of life in the bush,” he said.

“And sometimes it’s waking up the next morning only to find a hitchhiking tick you missed the night before — the price you pay for the adventure.”

Mr Hawkes said his passion for wildlife and conservation was also driven by his hopes for the future of his four-year-old daughter, Margaux, who he enjoys teaching about the animals and discoveries he encounters in the wild.

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“I do have a beautiful four-year-old Australian daughter, Margaux, and I love teaching her about my findings and helping her appreciate nature and wildlife from a young age,” he said.

Mr Hawkes said he would also love the opportunity to turn his passion into meaningful conservation work in the future, whether through national parks, ranger work or working closely with regional communities.

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“I’d love to get my foot in the door somewhere meaningful where I can work with communities and help look after national parks and our native wildlife,” he said.

Through Oz-E Wild Adventures, Mr Hawkes said his ultimate goal was to spark curiosity, respect and love for Australia’s wildlife and natural environment.

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To see more of Dominick Hawkes’ wildlife photography and adventures, search Oz-E Wild Adventures across social media platforms.

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Saturday 6^th June

Freestyle Kings Live World Tour
7pm | BB Print Stadium

Get ready for an action-packed night as the Freestyle Kings Live World Tour roars into Mackay. Featuring some of the world’s biggest names in freestyle motocross and BMX, the two-hour spectacular promises gravity-defying stunts, jaw-dropping tricks and plenty of heart-racing moments. Led by FMX legend Robbie Maddison alongside world champions Clinton Moore and Pat Bowden, the show will feature double backflips, front flips and never-before-seen tricks performed by an elite lineup of riders. With pyrotechnics, live entertainment, merchandise and a family-friendly atmosphere, Freestyle Kings is more than just a stunt show — it’s a full-throttle experience for all ages. VIP meet-and-greet packages are also available for fans wanting an up-close experience with the riders.

Sunday 7^th June

BMA Mackay Marina Run
9:30am | Mackay Marina

Lace up your running shoes for one of Queensland’s most scenic running events. The BMA Mackay Marina Run returns with distances to suit everyone, including a half marathon (21.1km), 10km, 5km and 3km Kids Dash. Set against Mackay’s stunning coastline and blue-water marina, the flat and fast course is perfect for both seasoned runners chasing a personal best and first-time participants looking for a fun challenge. The event also raises valuable funds for local Leukaemia Foundation programs. Whether you’re running, walking or cheering from the sidelines, it promises to be a fantastic community day.
More information: mackaymarinarun.com

Thursday 11^th June

Play and Grow – A Morning for Little Ones
9am–11am | Mackay Central State School

Families with young children are invited to enjoy a morning of fun, connection and play at Mackay Central State School. The free community event will feature jumping castles, face painting, hands-on activities and opportunities to meet local family and support services. Designed to bring families together in a welcoming environment, Play and Grow offers little ones a chance to explore and play while parents and carers connect with others in the community. It’s the perfect way to spend a relaxed morning filled with smiles, laughter and new friendships.

Saturday 13^th June

Music of the Night – A Tribute to Andrew Lloyd Webber
2pm | MECC

Experience the magic of musical theatre as Joey Fimmano brings his award-winning production Music of the Night to Mackay. Celebrating the timeless music of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber and the great musicals of the West End and Broadway, the show features beloved songs from The Phantom of the Opera, Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat and more. Backed by an exceptional cast and live band, audiences can expect an afternoon of soaring vocals, spectacular performances and unforgettable musical moments. Whether you're a lifelong theatre lover or simply enjoy great live entertainment, this is a show not to miss.
Tickets: themecc.com.au

Saturday 13^th June

Harbour Moon Market
3:30pm–7:30pm | Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club

Enjoy a relaxed evening by the water at the Harbour Moon Market. Browse more than 30 unique stalls showcasing local makers, creators and small businesses while enjoying live music and delicious food from a range of food trucks. Grab a coffee, settle in by the harbour and soak up the community atmosphere as the sun goes down. With the Surf Club’s bar and restaurant also open, it’s the perfect opportunity to catch up with friends, support local businesses and enjoy a great family-friendly night out.

Thursday 18^th June

Waiting for God
7:30pm | Kucom Theatre, Andergrove

Kucom Theatre invites audiences to enjoy a hilarious and heartwarming night of live theatre with Waiting for God. Inspired by the much-loved British television comedy, the production follows sharp-witted retiree Diana Trent and fellow resident Tom Ballard as they join forces to outsmart the management of Bayview Retirement Village. Packed with humour, charm and plenty of relatable moments, the show explores friendship, ageing and community in a modern world. The production opens on 18 June and runs across multiple performance dates, with local cast and crew working hard behind the scenes to bring the comedy to life.

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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Legends On The Lawn drew a huge crowd to Harrup Park, Mackay, on Saturday 30th May, with a star-studded line-up delivering a memorable night of live Australian music.

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Headlined by Aussie rock legend Jimmy Barnes, the event featured an impressive mix of iconic performers including Jon Stevens, Birds of Tokyo, Baby Animals, Busby Marou and Bachelor Girl.

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Music fans from across the region gathered at Harrup Park for the highly anticipated concert, with the atmosphere building from the opening performances through to the headline act at 8pm.

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It’s safe to say, Legends On The Lawn 2026 brought together multiple generations of music lovers for a celebration of iconic true blue talent and live entertainment on the green!

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See more photos here:

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Part 1: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/legends-on-the-lawn-delivers-epic-afternoon-of-aussie-tunes-part-1

Part 2: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/legends-on-the-lawn-delivers-epic-afternoon-of-aussie-tunes-part-2

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Landholders, environmental groups and community members are invited to learn the latest techniques for tackling invasive woody weeds at a series of free training sessions across the Mackay region later this month.

Hosted by the Queensland Agriculture Workforce Network (Central Queensland), the workshops will feature leading woody weed expert Dr Vic Galea from the University of Queensland, who has spent more than two decades researching and developing effective weed control methods.

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Participants will learn about biological and chemical control options, including stem-implanted capsules designed to target invasive species while reducing chemical handling and environmental impacts compared to traditional spraying methods.

The training will focus on the identification and eradication of problem species including rubbervine, parkinsonia, prickly acacia, mimosa pigra, chinese apple, cats claw creeper and leucaena.

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Each session will include a 90-minute presentation followed by a practical field component, with attendees gaining hands-on experience using the specialised techniques and equipment.

Training sessions will be held at Yalboroo Community Hall on the 22^nd of June, the Ted Malone Rural Skills Centre in Sarina on the 23^rd of June, and Mackay Canegrowers on Wood Street on the 24^th of June.

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The free sessions are open to landholders, Landcare groups, council and Parks and Wildlife staff, and anyone interested in weed management. Registrations of interest close on the 15^th of June.

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A sea of colourful threads sprawled across the tables at Mater Private Hospital Mackay last Friday, as hands of all ages carefully looped, twisted and wove raffia together to celebrate and recognise National Reconciliation Week.

Laughter and friendly conversation filled the room as community members sat side-by-side learning the traditional art of weaving from First Nations artist Lee George.

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Held as part of this year’s National Reconciliation Week theme, “All In”, the collaborative weaving project invited the community to come together not only to create a shared artwork, but to create connection and understanding.

For Artist Lee George, weaving carries a meaning far greater than art alone.

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“I love the connection that comes with it… it’s sharing stories, teaching people how to weave, and passing on my knowledge to other people,” she said.

Around the room, attendees leaned in close to learn new techniques, helping one another through tangled raffia and uneven loops, while conversations unfolded.

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“I think this kind of project brings everybody together and they’re also learning a new skill,” Lee said.

For many, the simple act of weaving offers a moment to slow down.

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“Weaving slows you down, and is also very grounding, so it keeps you very calm,” she said.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said council was proud to partner with Mater Private Hospital Mackay to actively engage the community in a hands-on activity.  

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“This year we have engaged First Nations artist Lee George, who uses traditional weaving as a way to tell stories, create connection and build patience and respect,” Mayor Williamson said.

“By many people contributing to a woven piece, it’s incredibly symbolic of how we all need to work together towards reconciliation,” he said.

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“It’s a visual acknowledgement that we each need to step away from the sidelines and actively be involved in change.”

Community Development Officer Mulum Stone, who organised the event, said reconciliation begins with people coming together.

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“It’s about sitting around, engaging with each other and building relationships from a place of trust, respect and openness,” Ms Stone said.

“I can’t think of a better way to do this.”

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General Manager of Mater Private Hospital Mackay Kate Wade said the hospital was proud to help create space for those conversations to happen.

“It’s wonderful that we are able to play a key role in starting conversations around First Nations culture and reconciliation.”

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Mater’s Reconciliation Action Plan Program Manager Jo Jones said this year’s “All In” theme reflected a commitment to walking forward together.

“At Mater, being ‘all in’ means walking together with respect, listening with open hearts, and committing to reconciliation through understanding, inclusion and shared action,” Ms Jones said.

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“We honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, cultures and histories as we work together toward a more just and united future.”

Community members came together at Mater Private Hospital Mackay to weave, share stories and foster connection during National Reconciliation Week. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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The Airlie Beach foreshore was abuzz last Saturday, as the traditional owners of the land invited the community to Welcome the Whales back to the region.

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Traditional Land Owners marked the event with a smoking ceremony and demonstration of traditional dance, with tens of little ones joining in for the final song. Before and after the ceremony community members browsed food trucks, arts, crafts, and stalls from Whitsunday Conservation Council, Ocean Rafting, Whales of the Whitsunday, and more.  

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After the skies turned dark and lit up with the Southern Cross, pointed out by the traditional land owners as an important feature in a Dreaming story, attendees cosied up in camp chairs and picnic blankets for a screening of Free Willy 2.

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Held during Reconciliation Week, the event shared stories and perspectives from Ngaro speakers & dancers, who performed dances telling the stories of the Wedge-tailed Eagle, Grey Kangaroo, and Rainbow Serpent.

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As explained by the Whales of The Whitsundays organisation:

“The Ngaro, often referred to as the Sea People, have lived in close connection to these islands and oceans for over 9000 years. The Whitsundays were the heart of their life and culture. Using handcrafted three-piece canoes made of ironbark, called winta, they navigated these waters for fishing, gathering, and community journeys.

“Their deep understanding of the Marine environment enabled them to sustainably hunt sea creatures, including dugongs, turtles and even small whales, using barbed harpoons that allowed for humane, controlled hunting.  

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“The Dreaming, a spiritual worldview of creation and connection, lives in stories passed down through generations. One such story from Ngaro Elder Aunty Sue, tells of the Rainbow Serpent who moved through the sea, laying her eggs as she went. Those Eggs became the islands you see today, giving us sacred reminders of the past in the present landscape.”

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The Whitsundays became a designated Whale Heritage Area in March 2024, and is increasingly recognised as an ideal natural environment in which to experience these gentle giants. But, revellers are reminded to respect the creatures, the land and the ocean as they do so.  

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Boats must switch off their engine and not travel within 300 metres of a humpback, and should practice caution when sailing at night. If a whale is accidentally struck, it must be reported, via gbrmpa.gov.au/report-an-incident.

The population of whales is being studied by scientists on shore, and at the University of Queensland, specifically the Centre for Marine Science.  

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Want to learn more about the whales? Visit: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/article/inside-the-whale---the-story-of-the-magnificent-mammals-that-visit-the-whitsundays

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Residents and visitors are encouraged to take part in the observation and study of the animals by reporting any sightings via the Eye on the Reef App – scan the QR code to download now.

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Whales of the Whitsundays are raising funds to support the whales through a raffle. Enter for a chance to win a mother and calf humpback whale print, donated by Above and Below Gallery, by scanning the QR code below.  

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Between the tides will be headlined by Boy & Bear, whose soaring harmonies will fill the air and lift across the foreshore.

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The award-winning concert series Between the Tides is back in July and has found a stunning new home on Ngaro Country at Airlie Beach along the sparkling Great Barrier Reef coastline. For three years, this one-of-a-kind event has brought together music, culture, and nature, and now it is stepping into an exciting new chapter.

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Find your rhythm on The Reef as some of Australia’s most celebrated musicians take to the stage against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday coast. Headlined by Boy & Bear, whose soaring harmonies fill the air and lift across the foreshore, the music flows seamlessly from one performance to the next. Jem Cassar-Daley follows with soulful songs that drift over the sand, drawing you in with every note. Mid Drift carries the feeling onward with intimate, heartfelt melodies that seem to ripple with the waves. Tjaka sparks a surge of energy, blending beats, rap, and didgeridoo in a way that makes the crowd move together. Rounding out the lineup, local singer Kaylee West brings warm, folk-inspired songs shaped by the ocean and open road, perfectly in tune with the coastal setting.

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Guided by the custodians of the Ngaro Nation, this is more than a concert. Experience cultural performances, sand art, workshops, and knowledge-sharing, alongside locally crafted food, drinks, and art. Dance, share stories, and connect with the rhythms of this ever-changing coastal landscape.

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Feel the breeze off the Coral Sea, and let the music, culture, and coastal beauty carry you away. Between the Tides at Airlie Beach is a day to connect, to dance, to share stories, and to create memories you’ll never forget.

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Tickets are limited and expected to sell quickly. Secure your place now and be part of something truly unforgettable.

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This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.

What? Between The Tides
When? Saturday 4th July  
Where? 8 Airlie Esplanade

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