
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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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.
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.
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 22nd of June, the Ted Malone Rural Skills Centre in Sarina on the 23rd of June, and Mackay Canegrowers on Wood Street on the 24th of June.
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 15th of June.

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.
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.
“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.

“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.
“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.
“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.
“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.

“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.”
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.”
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.
“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

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.”
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.
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.
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
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.

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.


Between the tides will be headlined by Boy & Bear, whose soaring harmonies will fill the air and lift across the foreshore.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Tickets are limited and expected to sell quickly. Secure your place now and be part of something truly unforgettable.
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through Creative Australia, its principal arts investment and advisory body.

Volunteers are being sought to help bring Between the Tides to life at Airlie Beach this July, with locals invited to support the festival while enjoying a night of live music and cultural experiences.
Music lovers are being encouraged to get involved in one of the Whitsundays’ most exciting live music events, with volunteers now being sought for Between the Tides in Airlie Beach this July.
Presented as part of the QLD Music Trails: The Reef series, the one-day festival-style experience will transform the Airlie Beach Foreshore into a vibrant celebration of music, culture, art and community on Saturday, 4th July.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday coastline on Ngaro Country, the event will feature a stellar line-up of Australian artists including Boy & Bear, Jem Cassar-Daley, Mid Drift, Tjaka and Kaylee West.
Organisers are calling for volunteers to help make the event a success, offering locals the chance to be part of the action while supporting a major cultural event in the region.
Volunteer roles include greeting patrons, scanning tickets, handing out wristbands and assisting with merchandise sales throughout the afternoon and evening.
There are two volunteer shift options available, and once volunteers complete their shift, they’ll receive a GA18+ wristband allowing them to enjoy the live performances and festival atmosphere afterwards.
More than just a concert, Between the Tides promises a rich cultural experience featuring workshops, sand art, cultural performances and knowledge-sharing opportunities, alongside locally crafted food, drinks and art installations.
Organisers say volunteering is a great opportunity to meet new people, support live music and experience the event from behind the scenes.
Anyone interested in volunteering can complete the application form online at qldmusictrails.com/volunteer. For further information, email ticketing@qldmusictrails.com or call 07 3010 6600.
WHAT: Between the Tides
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore, Ngaro Country
WHEN: Saturday 4th July, 2pm-10pm

Photo supplied
By day, Whitsundays community leader Bec Woods works full-time supporting local families and community members. By night, she writes dystopian fiction.
Now, after years balancing community work, family life, and writing around a full-time schedule, Woods is preparing to release her debut novel, The Quiet Held, on the 30th June.
Set in a tightly controlled society governed through compliance, allocation, and “care,” The Quiet Held explores what happens when systems designed to protect people slowly become systems that control them.
For Woods, the inspiration did not come from abstract science fiction ideas, but from years spent working within real community structures in the Whitsundays.
“When you work closely with people long enough, you start noticing how much power systems hold over everyday life,” Woods said.
“Not just governments, but policies, assessments, processes, approvals. Most systems begin with good intentions, but over time they can become impersonal. That tension became the heart of the book.”
The local author said the novel was shaped around the emotional realities of institutional language, efficiency culture, and the pressure many people feel to remain compliant within systems they depend on.
Despite writing a full trilogy, Woods has continued working full-time throughout the drafting and publishing process.
“This book was written between work and everyday responsibilities,” she said.
“I think being a frontline worker helped the story. There’s space here to observe people closely. Community work keeps you connected to what matters.”
The novel blends literary fiction with speculative dystopian themes and has drawn comparisons to Never Let Me Go and The Handmaid’s Tale for its restrained emotional style and social commentary.
Woods said she hopes readers connect not only with the larger dystopian themes, but with the quieter human moments inside the story.
“At its core, it’s really about belonging, survival, and the small compromises people make to feel safe.”
The Quiet Held will be available in paperback and ebook formats from 30th June 2026 from Amazon. https://amzn.asia/d/0dqMXxuw

Where do stories come from?
That question will take centre stage at the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival when three accomplished regional authors come together for an entertaining and insightful panel discussion exploring the origins of creativity.
Where Do You Get Your Story Ideas From? will reveal the surprising, strange, and often mundane everyday moments that spark books, characters, and stories, offering audiences a glimpse into the minds of working writers.
The afternoon session forms part of the Whitsundays Writers Festival on Sunday 13 September 2026 at the Whitsunday Marine Club, Cannonvale.
Festival Director Richard Evans said the panel would appeal to readers and aspiring writers alike.
“People often assume writers are waiting for lightning to strike, but inspiration can come from a conversation overheard in a café, a childhood memory, a newspaper article, a road trip, or a simple ‘what if?’ question,” Richard said.
“This discussion explores the many ways stories begin and how writers transform everyday experiences into something readers connect with.”
The panel brings together three authors whose work spans personal development, adventure memoir, and crime fiction.

Krissy Regan
Children’s Author & Adult Personal Development
After decades of travel and delivering projects for clients around the world, Krissy Regan embarked on a creative journey of her own, publishing her first book in 2020 and quickly following it with five more titles. A passionate storyteller, Krissy writes for children and adults, creating meaningful, values-based content designed to inspire and encourage. She is also a regular contributor to family publications including Kiddipedia and other print and online media.

Gary Wood
Adventure Memoir
Award-winning author, travel writer, and motorcycle adventurer Gary Wood finds inspiration on the back roads of regional Australia. Through his books Gun Fights, Ghosts and Goannas and Red Dust and Rainforests, as well as his popular website Digital Swaggie, Gary documents the people, landscapes, and forgotten places that continue to shape Australia’s identity. His storytelling combines history, observation, humour, and a deep appreciation for the practical wisdom found in regional and remote communities.

Veronica Lando
Crime Fiction
North Queensland author Veronica Lando grew up above her parents’ Melbourne bookshop, surrounded by stories from an early age. Her debut novel The Whispering won the 2021 Banjo Prize for Fiction and was shortlisted for the Queensland Literary Awards Courier-Mail People’s Choice Book of the Year and Sisters in Crime Scarlet Stiletto Award. She has since secured multiple publishing contracts and established herself as a rising voice in Australian crime fiction. Drawing inspiration from North Queensland’s uniquely harsh and sometimes dangerous landscapes, Veronica creates atmospheric stories that blur the line between beauty and menace.
The discussion forms part of a full day of literary events celebrating local authors, regional stories, and community connection.
The 2026 festival programme also includes the prestigious From the Heart keynote by multi-award-winning romance author Rachel Armstrong, the presentation of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, and Stories by the Sea — a free community event featuring more than 20 regional authors, book sales and swaps, live music, art demonstrations, children’s activities, and a gold coin BBQ.
Tickets and full programme details are available via the festival website: https://www.whitsundayswriters.com/2026-programme-speakers/

Last fortnight, we explored why life skills matter and how they to navigate the ups and downs of everyday life. The next step is knowing where these skills develop.
Life skills are built in everyday moments.
They grow in the small interactions: a disagreement with a sibling, frustration over homework or workplace activities, or deciding what to do with free time. These situations offer natural opportunities to strengthen skills like problem-solving, communication, and emotional awareness.
Rather than stepping in quickly to fix things, a more helpful approach is to stay alongside and guide. Simple prompts can make a big difference:
These questions encourage reflection without pressure, helping people build self-awareness and confidence in their own thinking.
You can also create small, intentional opportunities:
Over time, these repeated moments build a strong internal toolkit. People begin to recognise their emotions, think through challenges, and communicate more effectively.
Next fortnight, we’ll focus on two of the most important (and often overlooked) life skills—managing emotions and coping with stress—and how to support these in practical, everyday ways.
“If you’d like more support, visit my website https://www.personaltransitions.com.au/ or give me a call 0418708214.”NDIS FRIENDLY

How to Stop Time is a beautifully written and thought-provoking novel that stayed with me long after I finished it. Matt Haig has a wonderful way of blending the ordinary with the extraordinary, and this story is no exception.
I just loved the story and the way it transported me to and from different time periods. Following Tom Hazard’s life across centuries was fascinating, and each era was brought to life with such vivid detail that I felt completely immersed in his journey. Beneath the novel’s unique premise lies a deeply human story about loneliness, love, belonging, and learning how to truly live in the present.
Like other Matt Haig books that I have read, I thoroughly enjoyed this one just as much. His writing is full of warmth, wisdom, and compassion, making even the most complex emotions feel relatable and understandable.
Another favourite of mine is The Comfort Book, which is filled with little quotes, anecdotes, and delights that offer comfort and perspective when needed most. Haig has a remarkable ability to connect with readers on a personal level. I think what makes Matt Haig such a fabulous writer is his honesty and empathy. His books resonate even more when you are navigating your own trials and tribulations, offering reassurance, hope, and moments of reflection.
How to Stop Time is a captivating, heartfelt read that I would highly recommend.
Amy Smith

Caprioglio Girls carting cane
It is impossible to estimate the importance of the role that women have played in the history of the sugar industry. They not only raised and cared for large families but were often responsible for feeding the gangs of canecutters who came to the district during the harvesting season. Their duties soon extended into the fields working alongside their partners, forging out a life for their families.
Women played a vital role in supporting field work, especially during the harvest. Many Italian migrants who came to Queensland as early settlers began as canecutters and their labour depended heavily on the assistance of their wives, as well as the wives of the farmers who employed them. These women prepared the large, hearty meals needed to sustain the demanding work of cutting and loading cane.
Stories of Italian women cooking for gangs of canecutters demonstrate the sheer scale of the task. On some farms, cane was loaded as early as 3 am, so these women were often up by 2.30 am to light the fire and prepare breakfast. In addition to cooking, they carted smoko out to the fields. Their day frequently did not end until 9 pm.
Prior to World War Two, only Italian women worked regularly in the field reflecting cultural differences. With the critical shortage of labour during the war, however, all women rallied to the occasion often working farms singlehandedly while continuing to care for their large families. By 1942, many farmers’ wives had learned to drive tractors.
In the early years, women made a major contribution to farming by preparing and planting sugar cane. Stripping cane was hot, hard, and time-consuming, but it provided valuable seasonal work. Often with children in tow, women worked in the paddocks with gloves to strip the cane and ready it for planting. Many then went on to operate tractors, taking on another demanding role in the process.
Today, women continue to work in the fields, helping with planting, fertilising, harvesting and haulout operations. In joint farming operations, their administrative and accounting skills are essential to running the business. Many have also farmed successfully in their own right.
The asset value of women to the industry also extends beyond the farm. On the milling side, they have made a significant impact. Initially, their involvement was mainly restricted to the offices and in laboratories as assistants, check chemists and cane testers. Despite resistance from some to their employment in this section, they were regarded as more accurate as weighbridge clerks. By 1997, women were employed in all areas of the Proserpine Sugar Mill.
Sugar boiler, Michelle Wilkins, made history as the first female sugar boiler. She and Lola Pogson formed the first female pan stage team in the Australian Sugar Industry. Katrina Bowman, employed as an ash handler on the boilers, was the first woman at Proserpine Sugar Mill to gain a steam turbine ticket. The first female loco fireperson was Vicki Bernett who was appointed in 1989. These are just a few examples.
While women were most visible in farming, harvesting and milling sectors, some also advanced into leadership and management. From 2007 to 2013, Del Linneweber served as a director of the Proserpine CANEGROWERS and in 2022, Bessie Orr was elected as a director of the organisation and currently still holds this position.
Women can be justly proud of their continuing contribution to the sugar industry. Their roles have been wide-ranging, vital, but far too often understated.
Information and photo sourced from PHMS archives; “A Crystal Century”; “Centenary Celebrations: A Scrapbook” (Proserpine Sugar Industry 1897 – 1997) and “A Heart in Two Places”.

A powerful dose of classic rock is set to hit Airlie Beach this June, with audiences invited to enjoy two free afternoon performances from one of Australia’s most respected Meatloaf tribute acts, “To Hell and Back – Australia’s Tribute to Meatloaf”.
Known for its explosive live energy and remarkable musical accuracy, the show has earned a strong reputation nationwide for faithfully recreating the sound, drama and scale of Meatloaf’s iconic recordings. At the centre of the production is front man Gary, whose striking vocal similarity and commanding stage presence bring the spirit of Meatloaf vividly back to life on stage.
Audiences can expect a full five-piece live band delivering the signature “wall of sound” that defined hits such as Paradise by the Dashboard Light, Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad, and You Took the Words Right Out of My Mouth. A standout feature of the show is a complete performance of the landmark album Bat Out of Hell played in its entirety, offering fans the chance to experience the record as a full live journey, alongside additional fan favourites from Meatloaf’s catalogue.
“This is one of the most highly anticipated shows of the year,” said Airlie Beach Hotel Marketing and Entertainment Manager Mark Wilkins.
“It has received rave reviews from all who attended last year and the bookings are already coming in thick and fast for a guaranteed booked out show.”
Originally formed in 1999, To Hell and Back has evolved into a tightly honed touring production, with the current lineup performing together for the past 14 years. That long-standing collaboration is evident in the precision, energy and cohesion of the performance, which continues to draw enthusiastic crowds wherever it appears.
“We’re over the moon to be playing in Airlie Beach again,” said manager and drummer Tom.
“Everyone is really looking forward to catching up with the locals again.”
Whether you are a lifelong Meatloaf fan or simply looking for a lively afternoon of free live entertainment, this is a rare opportunity to experience a high-calibre tribute show in an intimate coastal setting.
This is set to be one of the standout free live music events of the season, bringing classic rock energy to the heart of the Whitsundays.

June
6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Songwriting Summit, 9.30am-4pm
6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Concert & Conversation, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6pm - 8pm
9 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
16 Collinsville Open Cut Free Event
18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am
23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

Friday 5 June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Saturday 6 June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Sunday 7 June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KCs: Louisa Taylor (from 8pm)
Monday 8 June
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Andrew Baldino (from 8pm)
Tuesday 9 June
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Andrew Baldino (from 8pm)
Wednesday 10 June
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Daniel Sproule (from 8pm)
Thursday 11 June
Airlie Beach: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)
KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)

Iconic British rock band, Pink Floyd left an indelible mark on the world, inspiring generations with their ground-breaking soundscapes and thought-provoking lyrics. 2025 marks the diamond anniversary of Pink Floyd's inception, and to honour this milestone every era of Pink Floyd's illustrious career will be celebrated in grand style in a brand new concert production, Echoes of Pink Floyd.
Echoes of Pink Floyd will take audiences on a mesmerising journey through six decades of Pink Floyd's unparalleled musical legacy. From the psychedelic sounds of the 1960s to the progressive rock masterpieces and stadium-shaking anthems of their latter years, this show will capture the true essence of Pink Floyd's evolution with precision and passion.
"This show is a testament to the enduring impact of Pink Floyd's music," said lead guitarist Daniel Hunter. "For six decades, their innovative sound and boundary-pushing creativity have captivated audiences around the world. We're thrilled to bring dedicated Floyd fans together to celebrate this milestone anniversary."
Echoes of Pink Floyd stands as Australia’s foremost tribute dedicated to honouring the legendary band's monumental legacy and has garnered widespread acclaim across the country since their inception in 2009.
Echoes of Pink Floyd's line-up boasts seasoned musicians and ardent Pink Floyd enthusiasts: Daniel Hunter (lead guitar), Jason Miller (drums and vocals), Paul Bindig (keyboards), Mark MacNab (rhythm and acoustic guitar), Matt Goodluck (vocals), Will Byrne (Bass and vocals), , Daniel Modica (keyboard and saxophone) and Bree Gregory, Rossella Fanelli and Montana Sharp (Backing Vocals).
Since embarking on national tours in 2014, their lovingly-crafted performances have captivated audiences nationwide, drawing praise such as "masterful," “absolute genius,” “spine-tingling,” and "absolutely the best live musical trip any Floyd fan can go on," with audiences likening their performance to that of the original band.
Don't miss your chance to be part of history as Echoes of Pink Floyd celebrate 60 years of Pink Floyd in style.

One of these beautiful, cool, pink-skied evenings, why not head to KC’s Bar & Grill for a chargrilled steak and a cold beer, soundtracked by some of the best live music Airlie has to offer.
As Airlie Beach’s original steakhouse, bourbon bar and live music venue, KC’s has built a reputation for serving premium-quality steaks cooked and prepared to perfection every time. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, catching up with friends or simply treating yourself to a great meal, KC’s is the place to go.
The secret behind their exceptional steaks starts with the beef itself. KC’s exclusively serves Riverina Black Angus, renowned for its rich flavour and superior quality. Try their 28-day dry-aged steak; the process enhances both tenderness and taste, delivering an experience that is second to none.
Guests can choose from an impressive range of dry-aged steaks, with cuts ranging from 300g to a generous 650g. Adding to the experience, all steaks are displayed for diners to view before making their selection, allowing guests to choose the perfect cut to suit their appetite.
One of the standout favourites on the menu is the seasoned Picanha steak, loved for its flavour and signature tenderness. Every steak is served with your choice of house-made sauce and sides.
Add in a quality bourbon selection, live music and a welcoming atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why KC’s Bar & Grill remains one of Airlie Beach’s most popular dining destinations- visit any evening of the week, with live music every night from 8pm.