Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Friday 9th October Cuppa Between Chapters 9am - 10am Enjoy a relaxed morning at Dudley Denny City Library, with a warm cuppa, good company and a chance to unwind with a few chapters of your current read. Whether you're after a friendly chat, a quiet moment with a book or simply a change of scenery, this welcoming gathering is a chance to slow down and enjoy some community connection. Bring along your current read or simply come along for a cuppa and a chat. Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay Free Community Suicide Intervention Training 9am - 4pm This free training will equip participants with practical skills to recognise early warning signs of suicide, support people at risk to access available services and encourage help-seeking before a crisis occurs. The session will also provide an opportunity to build confidence in having supportive conversations, while helping participants identify their own self-care strategies. It is a practical opportunity for community members to build their knowledge and feel better prepared to support others. Northern Queensland Primary Health Network, 2/45 Victoria Street, Mackay Sunday 11th October Walk, Talk And Connect At Bucasia 8am Head to Bucasia Esplanade for a relaxed morning of walking, conversation and community connection as part of Queensland Mental Health Week 2026. The Walk & Talk will get underway at 8.15am, with no set distance or pace, making it suitable for all ages and walking abilities. Participants can enjoy the outdoors, meet fellow locals and take part in mindfulness prompts along the way, before heading to Beachfront Bar & Restaurant from 9.15am for light refreshments. Coffee will be available to purchase. Prams are welcome, as are dogs on leads, with one dog per person. Registration is appreciated for catering purposes. Bucasia Esplanade, Bucasia Highway Country Music Family Night 7pm Enjoy a fun family night of country music, friendship and good old-fashioned community spirit at the Highway Country Music Family Night. Everyone is welcome to come along, enjoy the music, catch up with friends and make some new ones in a relaxed community setting. Admission is just $5, with a delicious supper provided free on the night, making it a great opportunity to settle in and enjoy an evening of music and friendship. Bakers Creek Community Hall, Bakers Creek, via Mackay Monday 12th October Introduction To The Australian Job Market 9am - 11am The Neighbourhood Hub presents a practical workshop supporting people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to navigate the Australian employment landscape. Participants will learn about the local job market, connect with others and gain useful knowledge to help strengthen their employment prospects. Whether newly arrived in Australia or looking to build on existing employment opportunities, the session offers practical information and foundational knowledge to help participants better understand the local job market. The Neighbourhood Hub, 4 George Street, Mackay Tuesday 13th October Off The Hook: Knit And Crochet Club 9.30am - 11am Enjoy a relaxed morning of knitting, crochet, cuppas and friendly conversation at this welcoming monthly club. Materials are provided, or bring along your own project and enjoy getting creative while meeting new people. It is a chance to work on a project, pick up your needles or crochet hook and spend some time in good company. Whether you're an experienced crafter or simply looking for a relaxed morning activity, everyone is welcome. Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay
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The countdown is officially on, with less than two months to go until Mackay welcomes one of the most magical exhibitions ever to hit regional Australia. On December 4th 2026, Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic will make its Australian premiere at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, bringing more than a century of Disney imagination, storytelling and cinematic history to the region. For five magical months, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre will showcase more than a century of imagination, storytelling and cinematic history, inviting visitors to step behind the curtain of one of the world's most beloved entertainment companies. Featuring more than 120 extraordinary artefacts, costumes, props and works of art from the Walt Disney Archives, the exhibition will take visitors on an immersive journey through the stories that have captured hearts across generations. From Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to Encanto, visitors will encounter the worlds and characters they know and love, while also exploring the remarkable legacies of Pixar, Star Wars and MARVEL. Across eight imaginatively themed galleries and 12 interactive installations, Disney fans will have the opportunity to experience more than 100 years of history in a way never before seen in Australia. The exhibition has travelled the globe, captivating audiences in cities including London, Paris, Munich, Chicago, Seoul and Madrid. Now, remarkably, its next destination is Mackay. At the official launch event earlier this year, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said he hoped the announcement would encourage people from across the globe to discover exactly what makes the region so special. “Come and see it for yourself and you will understand why it’s here!” With at least 100,000 visitors expected across the five-month season, the exhibition is set to deliver an enormous boost to local tourism, hospitality and businesses, while introducing the Mackay region to audiences from across Australia and potentially around the world. For Disney fans, it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the magic behind the stories that shaped childhoods and continue to inspire new generations. It will all begin with a mouse, a dream and one very magical destination! For more information, or to book tickets, visit disney100exhibit.com/mackay WHAT: Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic WHEN: From 4th December 2026 WHERE: The Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre
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There is something quietly captivating about watching smoke slowly curl into the air, forming shapes that disappear almost as quickly as they arrive. This fitting image for the theme ‘Aromas in Focus’ from this week’s winning photographer Alissa Tominlinson, embodies those delicate whispers rising from an ornate incense burner. Surrounded by pink roses and tiny white flowers, the scene is so vivid you can smell the fragrance off the canvas. The rich colour of the petals and intricate metalwork give the eye plenty to be mesmerized with, while the drifting smoke adds a little mystery to the scene. Congratulations to this Alissa for capturing such a beautiful moment of stillness! The next theme is Glitter and Sparkles, so seek out something shiny. Thank you once again to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing another wonderful collection of images.
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New Record For Mill ? Proserpine Sugar Mill Acting General Manager, Kevin Howell predicted a record through put of 1,150,000 tonnes by the end of season, which was due to new cane varieties 1. Also heavy rainfall brought a premature end to last season leaving a standover of 90,000 tonnes. One Crash Leads To Another. A council gravel truck crashed in Kara Crescent, Airlie Beach. A crane attempting to right the truck went out of control and collided with a fire truck, a stationery MEB truck and then a boat. No-one was injured. Shute Drowning. An English tourist dived off the jetty doing a forward somersault came up then disappeared and was eventually found on the bottom about 15 minutes later. Collinsville Road Link. Plans to close the power station could put the Collinsville- Proserpine Road in doubt. Job Stats For Cannonvale. June Quarter job figures from Cannonvale CES showed that 749 people enrolled of whom 455 obtained jobs. Keep Your Cool. Anticipating hot weather in the coming months [Tuesday’s temperature was 33 degrees] local firm Smith’s Electrical took delivery of 1.5 tonnes of airconditioners valued at $30000 following another consignment 3 weeks ago worth $12000. Terraced Garden Creation. Members of Whitsunday Garden Club, Bob and Shirley Hudson have created a delightful terraced garden out of rugged terrain which contained a variety of multi coloured blooms. Daydream Development. A major development application has been made which would promote Daydream Island to the forefront of local tourism. It includes restaurants, cocktail bar, and executive suites, take 5 years to complete and cost up to $25million. South Molle Invades Bowen; on Sunday 80 Islanders steamed up the coast aboard their high speed catamaran ‘Capricornia ‘and landed on Horseshoe Bay Beach to engage locals in outrigger, paddle ski, men’s and women’s tug’o’war,and tyre tube races among numerous other contests. Tangles Visit. Special guest speaker at the WTA Dinner to be held at the Reef Gateway Hotel will be former test cricketer Max [Tangles] Walker.
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June
12 Stitch In Time Exhibition, Proserpine Entertainment Centre
12 Whitsunday Multicultural Festival, Bowen Sound Shell 4pm-8pm
16 Collinsville Open Cut Free Event
18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am
19-20 Show Whitsunday, Proserpine Showgrounds
23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
23 Bowen Show, Bowen Showgrounds
A world-class cast of acrobats, aerialists, jugglers and performers will take centre stage at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre next month when the acclaimed Cirque Nouvelle arrives in town.
Presented by Cameo Rascale Entertainment, the production has captivated audiences across Australia and promises a fresh take on traditional circus, blending spectacular physical feats with storytelling, comedy and theatrical flair.
The 75-minute show follows a quirky ringmaster struggling to embrace change as the circus world evolves around him. Through a combination of aerial artistry, balancing acts, juggling and acrobatics, Cirque Nouvelle explores the theme of old versus new, celebrating both the rich history of circus and its modern-day transformation.
From the classic days of the travelling Big Top to today's theatre productions featuring elaborate lighting, costumes and technology, the performance offers audiences a glimpse into how the art form has evolved over the years.
Recent reviews have praised the production for combining nostalgia with contemporary spectacle. Writing for The Scoop, reviewer Regan Baker described the show as “the perfect concoction of nostalgia, comedy, and sophistication”, highlighting its blend of traditional circus humour and modern theatrical production.
The internationally acclaimed cast features a range of specialist performers showcasing world-class skills in aerial disciplines, acrobatics, juggling and balancing acts, creating a fast-paced production designed to entertain audiences of all ages.
Organisers say the performance is a heartwarming journey that will “thrill, captivate and amaze the whole family”.
Suitable for children aged two years and older, the show offers a family-friendly evening of entertainment during the school holiday period.
Cirque Nouvelle will be performed at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Wednesday 8th July, from 6pm.
Tickets range from $35 to $45 and are available through the Proserpine Entertainment Centre Box Office or online.
Seniors’ Artwork will be exhibited at the PEC on 12th June, following popular ‘Stitch In Time’ workshops.
Over the past year, seniors from across the region have participated in a range of ‘Stitch In Time’ creative art workshops delivered by the Social Seniors Whitsundays project, an initiative of Whitsunday Regional Libraries.
Textile workshops were delivered by local artists with the aim of creating memory books, with each piece of artwork capturing an important part of the artist’s life. These moving works are now being showcased in a free community exhibition on 12th June at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.
Mayor Ry Collins congratulated the workshop series and praised the changes it is inspiring within our region.
“It’s all about combatting social isolation within our senior community,” he said.
“The Social Seniors Whitsundays project and the Stitch in Time workshop series are offering our seniors the chance to share their stories, create community and become more socially active.”
The exhibition will honour the distinct artworks created and will showcase a range of textile formats including hand-woven pieces, needle-felted stories and imaginative hand-printed memory books.
Attendees will also have the chance to enjoy light refreshments and meet the artists whilst they explore the artworks.
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Whitsunday Business Awards. These prestigious awards celebrate the achievements, innovation and contribution of local businesses and individuals who are shaping the future of the Whitsundays. It’s your chance to recognise excellence across the region and shine a spotlight on outstanding success stories. Applications are open now and close Friday 17 July 2026. Nominate or apply online via the Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce website.
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.
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.
“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.
“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.”
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”.
“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’.
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’.
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”.
“Music festivals in places like Airlie become more than just gigs – they turn into memories with your mates in incredible locations,” he said.
“Just come ready for a good time and I promise we’ll make it a special night.”
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.
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.
“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.
“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.
“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.”
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”.
“This goes beyond just entertainment, it’s food for the soul,” he said.
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.
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.
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.
Lily with her mother Alison behind the counter at Fiorella Florals at 28 George Street, Bowen. Photo source: Fiorella Florals
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.
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.
"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.
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.
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.
"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."
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.
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.
"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.
"I love being able to bring comfort to those in the form of flowers, through all of life's special moments."
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 17th.
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.
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.
$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.
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 .
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.
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.
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
Tennis. Team leaders A Grade- Scotfords , Reserve Grade -Slammers.
This week’s winner is Alissa Tomlinson for the theme Australian Bush
Alissa’s photo of an adult and a young Tawny Frogmouth was taken at Hydeaway Bay.
Next week’s theme is “Lights” – you can get involved in the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers Facebook Group.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Cast and crew at Kucom Theatre are hard at work preparing for next month’s production of Waiting for God. Photo supplied
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.
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.
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 18th, with performances running across multiple dates.
Leanne McNaught is part of the sales team at Blacks Real Estate. Photo supplied
Leanne McNaught is part of the sales team at Blacks Real Estate, working with buyers and sellers across Mackay’s growing property market.
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.
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.
Sunday 14th June marks the 83rd 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.
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 7th June, commencing at 2.45pm. to commemorate the lives lost.
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.
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
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.
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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
To see more of Dominick Hawkes’ wildlife photography and adventures, search Oz-E Wild Adventures across social media platforms.
Saturday 6th 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 7th 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 11th 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 13th 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 13th 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 18th 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.
Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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.
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.
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.
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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