A Regional Gem Bringing World-Class Classical Performances Home

For seven years now, the Mackay Chamber Music Festival has been quietly transforming the cultural landscape of this regional city, uniting Australia’s finest classical musicians for a weekend of intimate performances and vibrant community music-making.

From July 18 to 20, the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music in Ooralea will come alive with the sounds of world-class chamber music, performed by celebrated artists including the guitar virtuosos Slava and Sharon Grigoryan, the dynamic Orava Quartet, and Brisbane’s innovative folk-classical ensemble The Boxties.

At the heart of this festival is local violinist Glenn Christensen, whose journey began in Mackay’s own music classrooms. Glenn’s vision was to give back to the community that nurtured his love for music and to open doors for regional students who rarely get the chance to experience performances of such calibre.

“Chamber music is about small groups of musicians playing some of the best classical music there is – without a conductor, everyone takes ownership, and the performances are wonderfully intimate,” Glenn explains.

Having carved out a successful career abroad, Glenn recently returned home to take up the role of Associate Concertmaster with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Yet his heart remains firmly rooted in Mackay. Each year, the festival attracts top Australian talent who eagerly give back through workshops, masterclasses, and collaborations with young local musicians — fostering the next generation of artists right here in the region.

This year’s stellar line-up features some true luminaries:

• Slava Grigoryan, hailed as a "wizard" of the guitar and a classical music virtuoso renowned worldwide.
• Sharon Grigoryan, Associate Principal Cello with the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra, performing alongside her husband Slava in a captivating cello-guitar duo.
• Stefanie Farrands, Principal Viola of the Australian Chamber Orchestra.
• Doretta Balkizas, an accomplished Australian violinist and University of Queensland lecturer.
• The Orava Quartet, an award-winning young ensemble celebrated as “the future of Australian chamber music.”
• Stewart Kelly, pianist and artistic director known for his work with Victoria’s Music by the Springs festival.
• The Boxties, a Brisbane-based group blending classical, folk, and contemporary styles, collaborating with Mackay school choirs and string players.
• Angela Turner, a distinguished Australian pianist leading masterclasses and mentoring the winner of the Anne Thompson Memorial Scholarship.**

“Many regional students don’t often get to see professional musicians perform or benefit from masterclasses. So bringing these experiences to Mackay is vital to nurturing local talent,” added Glenn.

Reflecting on the festival’s growth, Glenn fondly recalls its humble beginnings.

“Our first festival was held in the Masonic Hall with no stage. We had to bring a piano all the way from Melbourne and set up chairs ourselves. Now, we’re proud to host the event at the Central Queensland Conservatorium with a professional 200-seat venue.”

Beyond the music, the festival supports the Anne Thompson Memorial Scholarship, established to honour a beloved local music teacher by aiding young pianists in their development.

Despite financial hurdles, the festival flourishes thanks to passionate local business sponsors and volunteers who believe in the transformative power of music.

Glenn invites everyone, both music lovers and novices alike to come along.

“Classical music is for everyone. It’s not stuffy or inaccessible; it’s down-to-earth, fun, and full of life.

“Each concert offers a completely different program, so there’s something for everyone.”

Tickets are available now at mackaycmf.com.au or by calling the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music on +61 74940 7800.

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Get ready for a night of powerhouse vocals, infectious energy, and unforgettable country charm as Vixens of Fall take the stage at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) on Saturday, 2nd August 2025.

Hailing from Queensland’s tropical north and now based in Brisbane, these three bold sisters—Nina, Wren, and Lulu—bring their signature blend of country-rock with a splash of sass and soul. Known for their heartfelt lyrics, magnetic stage presence, and fierce sisterly harmony, Vixens of Fall are blazing their trail across the Australian country music scene.

Their rise has been impressive. From taking out the Battle of the Bands at the Tamworth Country Music Festival to sharing stages with the likes of Melody Moko and The Wolfe Brothers, the Vixens are no strangers to the spotlight. They were also named “Most Popular Independent Country Music Band” at the 2021 Independent Country Music Awards.

This live show at PEC promises to be an energetic celebration of their journey, packed with new music, fan favourites, and a few surprises. Their songs, filled with passion, life, and the spirit of the north, are guaranteed to have you tapping your boots and singing along.

Don’t miss your chance to experience the sweet, fiery magic of Vixens of Fall live. Grab your tickets, bring your friends, and enjoy a night where country music meets heart, soul, and unstoppable energy.

Book now — this is one show you won’t want to miss!

WHAT: Vixena Of Fall
WHEN: Saturday, 2 August
TIME: 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street, Proserpine
TICKETS:Tickets: Adult $39 | Concession $36 | PEC Members $34

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July

11 Matilda followed by Grease, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

12 NAIDOC Week Family Fun Day, Bowen Soundshell Santa Barbara Parade, 10:00am-2:00pm

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

13 Proserpine Community Winter Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

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

19 Tassal Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Races between Port of Airlie & Cannonvale Beach with the Race Precinct at the Sound Stage on the Airlie Foreshore

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

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

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

26 2025 Mayor's Charity Ball, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 5pm - 12am, $250

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

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

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Friday 11th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Sing On Social (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Troy Morrison (from 8pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Saturday 12th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Fleetwood Mac Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Sing On Social (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dallas Steele (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Sugarlips (1pm – 6pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Sunday 13th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Rock'N' The Country (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Sing On Social (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Troy Morrison (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Kieran McCarthy (2pm – 6pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Monday 14th July
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Tuesday 15th July
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Wednesday 16th July
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Thursday 17th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

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Robbie Williams fans, get ready—Australia’s top tribute act is heading back to the Whitsundays. Louie Lee Feltrin is set to perform his crowd-pleasing show at the Airlie Beach Hotel for the sixth time, and he couldn’t be happier to return.

“I love the venue. I love the people. I love the energy," he said.

"Everyone's in a good mood, there's a sunny disposition and everyone's happy.”

Coming from Melbourne, Louie joked that his own mood lifts just stepping off the plane. He said in Victoria the weather is freezing, people are miserable and stepping into the Airlie Beach Hotel will definitely improve his mood.

Louie’s path to tribute fame began nearly two decades ago after appearing on a Channel Nine show. He said he used to perform at nightclubs or events and somebody from Channel Nine told him he looked like Robbie Williams and asked if he would like to be on the show.

After knocking the request back a handful of times, Louie finally said yes and he had a ball.

It was the public response that set his career in motion. “I got a lot of enquiries afterwards, people were wanting to book me for various charity events and functions. Everything grew from that.”

As Robbie's music has changed, the show has changed over time too and Louie says he’s grown to love Robbie’s music deeply.

“I've loved the way he's grown over the years as a songwriter and as a musician," Louie added.

"I get to travel a bit, which is great, I get to come to Airlie, it's fantastic.”

Fans can expect some surprises in the setlist. During the last performance at Airlie Beach Hotel, Louie noted that Robbie's swing music went down extremely well.

During this upcoming performance Louie will be performing more swing and he can't wait.

“That's my background, I grew up in musical theatre and singing jazz. So for me, it's nice to go back and do what I really love doing.”

Robbie has also released new songs and Louie is hoping everybody knows them.

Of course, Angels will be in the mix.

“I love doing that, because you can see everyone's reaction to it. Angels resonates with people from all ages," said Louie.

"It's a song that touches a lot of people on different levels."

His final word to the fans? “Just come down, say, G'day, and enjoy the show."

"I can't wait to get back there, sing some of the new stuff, show off the new outfits and fingers crossed people will enjoy it.”

Catch Louie live at the Airlie Beach Hotel soon, don’t miss this electrifying celebration of Robbie Williams’ greatest hits.

WHAT: The Robbie Williams Experience
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 26 July (2pm - 5.30pm) & Sunday 27 July (2pm - 5.30pm)

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At The Great Barrier Reef Festival

The Great Barrier Reef Festival is all about community, colour, and creativity — and you can be part of the fun! Whether you’re a business, school, sporting club, community group, or just a bunch of mates, there’s an event with your name on it.

Night Markets & Food Stalls
Showcase your delicious eats or handmade goods and be part of the buzzing festival atmosphere along the foreshore.

Revvin’ the Reef Car Show
Got a classic, quirky, or custom ride? Roll into the crowd’s favourite car display and show off your pride and joy.

Rotary Street Parade
Join the Main Street showstopper! March, dance, drive or glide your way through Airlie in the most colourful event of the year.

Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta
Build it, paddle it, and try not to sink it! A wild and hilarious race of handmade rafts — made from recycled materials and full of personality.

Whitsunday Life Newspaper Window Dressing Competition
Let your creativity loose! Dress your shopfront with reef-themed flair and help bring the town to life for festival week.

Ready to join in? Registrations for all events are open now!
Go to the Get Involved tab on www.greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au to register or sign up to be a volunteer

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2025 Festival Needs You!

After weathering a challenging year in 2024, the Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival is returning in 2025 with fresh energy, renewed spirit — and a heartfelt call for community support.

Thanks to a groundswell of local encouragement and passion, the festival is launching the “Your Reef Festival” campaign — a rallying cry for the Whitsundays to come together and help shape the future of this cherished event.

“The 2025 festival is truly ‘Your Reef Festival,’” said Festival Chair Margie Murphy.
“It’s about shared ownership, celebrating our unique connection to the reef, and ensuring this special event continues for years to come. It's a gift – not a given – that our little community hosts the world’s only Great Barrier Reef Festival.”

A not-for-profit initiative run by a dedicated team of volunteers, the Great Barrier Reef Festival thrives on community partnerships, business sponsorships, and grassroots support. Whether you’re a local business, individual, or organisation, there are many meaningful ways to get involved:

How You Can Help:

• Become a Festival Partner: Tailored sponsorship packages available to suit your goals and amplify your brand.
• Sponsor a Signature Event: Align with highlight events such as the Fireworks by the Foreshore or the Family Fun Day.
• In-Kind Contributions: Offer goods, services, or expertise to help the festival shine.
• Make a Donation: Every dollar supports the festival’s growth and sustainability.
  Donate here: greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au/donations
• Join the Festival Crew:
  Volunteers are the heart of the festival. From marketing and logistics to event coordination and social media — all skills are welcome.
• Share Your Talents: Be part of something meaningful while using your skills.
• Build Connections: Join a team dedicated to community, creativity, and coastal celebration.
• Make an Impact: Help create an unforgettable experience for thousands.

To get involved or learn more, email info@greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival Announces 2025 Street Parade Registrations Now Open!

The Great Barrier Reef Festival is thrilled to announce that registrations are now open for the 2025 Street Parade!

This year’s festival will take place from August 1st to 3rd, with the ever-popular Street Parade set to light up Airlie Beach Main Street on Saturday, August 2nd at 5:00 PM.

2025 Theme: “Coral Kingdom”

Festival organisers invite the community to immerse themselves in the magical underwater world of the reef with the 2025 theme, “Coral Kingdom.” Whether inspired by coral castles, sea creatures, or vibrant marine life, participants are encouraged to get creative and bring the theme to life in bold, imaginative ways.

Parade Details:

Date & Time: Saturday, August 2nd, 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Location: Main Street, Airlie Beach

Entry Types:

Walking groups

Vehicle floats

Combination entries

Entry Fees:

Free for not-for-profit organisations and sponsors

$50 for business entries

Prizes Will Be Awarded For:

Best Business Entry

Best Not-for-Profit Entry

Most Creative & Wacky Design

Registration Deadline:
Entries must be submitted by Wednesday, July 30th. Please note that all vehicles must not exceed 12.5 metres in length and must be accompanied by two walkers for safety. In support of environmental sustainability, the use of balloons is not permitted, and participants are strongly encouraged to use recyclable and eco-friendly materials in their designs.

How to Register:
Participants can complete their registration via the official Street Parade Registration Page. For enquiries or assistance, the organising team can be contacted at parade@greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au.

The Great Barrier Reef Festival looks forward to celebrating community spirit and marine magic in this year’s vibrant parade. Organisers can’t wait to see the “Coral Kingdom” come alive in the heart of Airlie Beach!

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Take part in the Rotary Street Parade this year!

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The call is out to the Whitsunday community to enter the raffle for a four-night, self-skippered ‘bareboat’ charter, and help keep the Great Barrier Reef Festival afloat.

For the price of just $25 a ticket and with all proceeds donated to the event – ensuring it remains free, fun, and accessible for all – one lucky winner and up to nine shipmates will get to set sail on the trip of a lifetime around the Whitsunday Islands, aboard the luxe Leopard 40 Catamaran, Regina Whitsundays.

Valued at over $5,000, and with the boat far from being ‘bare’, the prize includes not only the four-day, four-night private charter itself, but additional snorkelling gear, stand-up paddle boards, Starlink WIFI, and all safety and navigation equipment supplied.

As an incentive to buy more than one raffle ticket, three will be discounted to $60, with five available for $100.

The raffle will be drawn on Sunday, August 3, at the 2025 Great Barrier Reef Festival closing event.

For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au or follow the links on the GBRF and Regina Catamaran Whitsundays Facebook pages.

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Next Film Night: Conclave on Screen

About: The Catholic Church is the largest Christian denomination with over 1.4 billion believers worldwide. The Pope, its supreme leader and head of the Vatican City, has passed away. Without time to mourn, Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with presiding over the conclave to elect a new pope. Over 100 powerful candidates from around the world gather, and the secret voting begins behind the doors of the Sistine Chapel. As the votes are split, Lawrence's anguish deepens as he is confronted with the numerous conspiracies, discrimination, and scandals simmering beneath the surface. And just before the birth of the new pope, a major incident breaks out that shakes the Vatican under high security...

Cast: Ralph Fiennes, John Lithgow, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini

Reviews:

Peter Bradshaw The Guardian: Ralph Fiennes is on sumptuous form as the deeply troubled Cardinal Lawrence at the centre of a murky Vatican plot. The result is a high-camp gripper, like the world’s most serious Carry On film.   4/5

Stephen Romi The Australian: What unfolds as the cardinals go to war with each other… is as tantalising as a murder mystery. The candidates become suspects, leaks happen, and questions arise about who is telling the truth.  4/5

For more information, visit: www.filmartsmackay.weebly.com/

What: Next film night: Conclave
When: 7:30pm Friday 11th July
Where CQ Conservatorium of Music Theatre, CQU Ooralea Campus Building 21.
Tickets: www.trybooking.com/DCCRU

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All The Fun, Right Here In The Region

Keep the kids entertained and engaged with a fantastic line-up of events happening across our region. From creative workshops and outdoor adventures to movie screenings and hands-on activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy this school holiday season.

Friday, July 4

Garden Friends Drop-In Activity – Secret Lives of Leaves
10am
Families are invited to the Botanic Gardens for a series of leaf-focused activities, including hunts, drawing walks, watercolour art, and leaf creature crafts. This free, family-friendly event is designed to encourage outdoor exploration and creativity. Also available on Saturday, July 5.
Botanic Gardens Meeting Room

Movie Matinee
2pm Gordon White Library will host an afternoon movie screening, complete with popcorn. The event features a film about a supervillain-turned-agent and is perfect for children aged five to 12.
Gordon White Library

Sunday, July 6

Mackay Festival of Arts 2025 - Savour the Suburbs
12pm
The Mackay Festival of Arts brings a suburban afternoon show to Bucasia Beach. This free, all-ages event will feature local music, markets, and local produce, celebrating the unique community and natural beauty of the area.
Bucasia Beach

Monday, July 7

Strolling Stories – The Bungee Jumping Caterpillar
9am
Families can follow the latest strolling story along a 350m looped circuit at the Botanic Gardens. Story panels tell the adventures of AK and Zody, and a hidden painted rock along the circuit offers a chance to win a book. This activity is available daily through Friday, July 11.
Just past the Malta Garden at the Botanic Gardens

Bocce with a Buddy
9am
Visitors can test their skills at the bocce court in the Malta Garden. Bocce sets are available for hire for a small fee from the Visitor Information Centre, with no booking required. This activity is available Monday to Friday.
Malta Garden’s Bocce Court

LEGO® Fun at the Library
9am
Children aged six and over can unleash their creativity with thousands of LEGO® pieces at their fingertips. This is a drop-in session where no registration is needed, allowing young builders to create masterpieces or simply have fun. This event is also available on Tuesday, July 8, and Wednesday, July 9.
Gordon White Library

Tee It Up Golf At Caneland Central
9:30am
Shoppers are invited to challenge themselves at a seven-hole mini-golf course. Participants can grab a club and scorecard to putt their way through the course for a fun, friendly challenge. A hole-in-one could win a $100 gift card. No bookings are required. This activity is available daily from July 7 to July 13.
Centre Court (Outside Myer) at Caneland Central

Special Kids Tours of the Sarina Sugar Shed
10:30am
A fun, interactive tour designed for children is available, focusing on the process of growing and harvesting sugar cane. Participants can taste sugar cane juice, molasses, and non-alcoholic ginger beer. Adults are welcome at the children's price, and bookings are essential. This special tour runs daily throughout the school holidays.
Sarina Sugar Shed

Songwriting and Singing Workshop
11:30am
Sarina Youth Centre is hosting a songwriting and singing workshop for youth aged ten to 21. With limited spaces, bookings are required for this creative session.
Bob Wood Cultural Hall

Tuesday, July 8

Car Care 101 for New Drivers
2pm
Treadwell Tyres is hosting a hands-on session for new drivers to learn basic car maintenance skills, such as how to change a tyre and check oil levels. The session is ideal for those who have recently obtained their learner’s permit or license. Sensible clothing and closed-in shoes are required.
Treadwell Tyres, 169 Boundary Road, Paget

Intergenerational Play
9am-12pm
A heartwarming morning of fun and play across generations. Calling all families with children under 5 and nursing homes or elderly residents.
Cheeky Little Monkeys Play Centre, 118 Wood Street

Wednesday, July 9

Bead It Bar
9:30am
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre will host a 'Bead It Bar' where children can create their own keyrings, bracelets, and necklaces. This hands-on activity encourages creativity and fine motor skills.
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

Thursday, July 10

Sip and Create
9:30am
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre is hosting a relaxed painting session where each guest receives a pre-drawn canvas, making it easy for anyone to create a beautiful piece of art. This session is also available on Saturday, July 12.
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

Pool Tournament
1pm
The Sarina Youth Centre invites youth aged ten to 21 to participate in a pool tournament. With only 12 spaces available, bookings are required for this competitive and social event. Sarina Youth Centre

Friday, July 11

Upcycle Workshop
9:30am
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre is hosting an eco-friendly workshop where attendees can transform an old T-shirt into a no-sew tote bag. This hands-on session teaches participants how to give their clothing a fabulous second life.
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

Sunday, July 13

Pouch Customisation Station
9:30am
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre will host a pouch customisation station. Children can decorate their own clear cosmetic pouch with stick-on patches, sparkly stickers, and other decorations to create a unique accessory.
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

Mackay Festival of Arts 2025 - Savour the Suburbs
12pm
The Mackay Festival of Arts presents another suburban afternoon show, this time at Pinnacle Cricket Grounds. This free, all-ages event will feature local music, markets, and fanfare, celebrating the region's unique communities and natural attractions.
Pinnacle Cricket Grounds

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Country Fest Queensland 2025 transformed Bloomsbury into a vibrant celebration of country music and rural culture over the weekend of June 27–28. Held at the Dittmann Bull Pit, the festival featured a stellar lineup of artists, including American headliners Randy Houser and Max McNown, alongside Australian favourites like James Johnston, Shannon Noll, Casey Barnes, and Tori Darke.

Attendees enjoyed a diverse array of activities beyond the music, such as the adrenaline-pumping PBR Bull Ride, line dancing sessions, market stalls, kids' rides, and a variety of food trucks. The festival also offered camping facilities, allowing fans to immerse themselves fully in the country atmosphere.

The event was praised for its family-friendly environment and the opportunity it provided for both local and international artists to connect with the community. Festival-goers left with unforgettable memories, already anticipating next year's Country Fest.

Find the Social Pics here:

Friday 4th July

Crochet & Conversation
9am
Join a welcoming morning of crochet, coffee, and conversation with Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. All skill levels welcome—just look for the yarn to find the table. Connection and creativity guaranteed.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant

Abbe 2025 Conference
12pm
Coming to Mackay this July, the abbe 2025 Conference dives into the dynamic world of Australian artists book practice. Over two days, artists, postgraduates, and professionals will explore themes of ‘Contemporary Artists Book Practice’ and ‘Mapping Australia’s Artists Book Histories: A Group Effort’. In an exciting first, abbe partners with Artspace Mackay and The Blue Notebook: Journal for Artists’ Books to elevate this national conversation.
Artspace Mackay

2025 Naidoc Collection Exhibition
5pm
Experience the vibrant storytelling of culture and Country through the 2025 NAIDOC Collection Exhibition, featuring original artworks, emu eggs, clap sticks, and handcrafted jewellery. Jessica Rigby Art will be on display at the Jubilee Community Exhibition Centre Mackay from 4–31 July. Don’t miss the opening night on 4 July from 5pm to 7pm.
Jubilee Community Exhibition Centre Mackay

LIVE Music
6-9pm
Enjoy LIVE music every Friday at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Saturday 5th July

Hawks Industrial Solutions Pirtek Mackay Motor Show
9am – 5 & 6 July
Car lovers are in for a treat at the 2025 Hawks Industrial Solutions Pirtek Mackay Motor Show. From elite showstoppers across the country to standout local cars and motorcycles, the Mackay Showgrounds will come alive with automotive excellence, food vendors, live music, free kids entertainment, and Go-to-Whoa action.
Mackay Showgrounds

Meet Postie Tina – Storytime & Rock Painting
10am
Step into the Toy Shop to meet Postie Tina, the inspiration behind local book Mrs Trilla and the Painted Rock. Snap a photo with her real-life postie bike, join in on rock painting fun, and grab a signed copy of the book from both Tina and author Ally.
Let The Children Play Toy Shop

Ballroom & Latin Dance Night
7.30pm
Mackay takes the floor on 5 July with a dazzling evening of ballroom and Latin dance! Enjoy a mix of fun routines and relaxed social dancing, with supper included. Private lessons and workshops also available across the weekend. $25 per person
Saint Charles Anglican Church, West Mackay

Sunday 6th July

Savour the Suburbs (Bucasia Esplanade)
12pm
Savour the Suburbs returns to the Bucasia Esplanade for a Sunday afternoon filled with live local music, markets, produce, and beachside vibes. This FREE event is suitable for all-ages and celebrates Mackay’s vibrant communities and coastal charm – one suburb at a time.
Bucasia Esplanade

Sarina Country Music Family Afternoon
1pm
Enjoy a toe-tapping afternoon of country music at the Sarina Sporting and Services Club. New artists are welcome to perform, and admission is just $5. The bistro opens at 11.30am, and a free courtesy bus is available—call the club to book. Club meeting at 11.30am prior to the event.
Sarina Sporting and Services Club, Brewers Road, Sarina

Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel

Monday 7th June

Monday Swim Squad
5.30pm
Start the week strong with Monday Swim Squad—a coached session focused on fitness, technique, and water confidence. Whether training for a triathlon or just after a great workout, swimmers of all levels are welcome, with distances up to 2200m based on ability. Participants should bring goggles, a swim cap, water bottle, fins, and a pull buoy. Cost is $5 pool entry plus $5 for non/social members.
Paradise Swimming & Fitness

Thursday 10th July

Fortnightly Goose Ponds Walk
6:50am
Enjoy a refreshing, relaxed walk around the Goose Ponds, perfect for soaking up beautiful weather and connecting with others. Open to members and non-members alike. Meet at Avanti Gym by 6:50am or Goose Ponds Park (Willets Road) at 7:00am. Please arrive 10 minutes early if meeting at the centre.
Avanti Gym or Goose Ponds Park, Willets Road

NAIDOC Celebrations
4pm
Join the community for the annual NAIDOC celebrations, proudly sponsored by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal. Enjoy market stalls, cultural workshops, dance performances, kids activities, kup murri, and more. This free event is open to all.
PCYC, Mackay

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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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