Given Airlie Beach is the only place in Australia to regularly feature live music 7 nights a week, the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival is thrilled to be back.

The 4th annual Whitsundays Songwriter Festival takes place June 5th - 10th, 2025 with its flagship Emerging Songwriter Workshop and Concert & Conversation events on Saturday, June 7th at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

The Whitsundays Songwriter Festival’s purpose is to develop songwriters in the Whitsundays by connecting them with world-class mentors to help further their skills and careers. Six nationally and internationally recognised songwriters and artists are invited to the region to mentor a new generation of local songwriters, and to create new songs in a songwriter residency.

Co-founded in 2022 by Queenslanders Karen Jacobsen and Francesca de Valence, together with the Whitsundays Arts Festival, WSF has hosted professional songwriters including Wendy Matthews, Toni Childs, Vika & Linda, Graeme Connors, Tia Gostelow and even had Mark Seymour pop by.

The festival’s one day workshop has 12 available spaces for emerging songwriters to further develop their songwriting craft. Taking place at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, participants will have the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the business. On the evening of June 7th, the yet to be announced professional songwriters will be interviewed and perform in an intimate ticketed event. More details can be found at whitsundaysartsfestival.org

Organisers would like to thank sponsors and partners including I Heart Songwriting Club, Whitsundays Arts Festival, Whitsunday Regional Council, Whitsunday Sailing Club, Sea Star Apartments, Airlie Beach Music Centre, Cruise Whitsundays and we welcome members of our community and local organisations to help the festival take place by visiting the Australian Cultural Fund website and searching Whitsundays Songwriter Festival. This project has also been made possible by the Australian Government Regional Arts Fund, which supports the arts in regional and remote Australia.

To sponsor or support the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival, make a tax deductible donation or receive a copy of our Sponsorship Prospectus by emailing: president@whitsundaysartsfestival.org

WHAT: Whitsundays Songwriter Festival
WHEN: JUNE 5 - 10, 2025

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Vika Bull, Toni Childs, Karen Jacobsen, Mark Sholtez, Francesca de Valence, and Linda Bull all attended the event in previous years. Photo credit: Whitsunday Life Newspaper

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May

3 How Do You Library? Community Expo, Cannonvale Library, 8:45am-11:45am

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

5 Labour Day

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

8 Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival 8th – 11th | Exhibition Opening Night 6:30pm

9 Mamma Mia, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

10 Art in the Park, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9:00am - varied class start times. Bookings required for class participation, $25pp. Exhibition free.

10 Car Boot Sale, Airlie Beach Bowls Club, 9:00am-3:00pm

11 Mother’s Day

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

11 Handmade & Homecrafted Markets, Ken McPherson Park / P.E.C

11 Mother’s Day Morning Tea, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9:30am, $35pp, Bookings Required

12 Spellbound, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:00pm

13 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

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

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

14 The Whitsundays 2025 Whale Season Information Night, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6.30pm

16 Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, Club Whitsunday, 9:30am-11:00am, $25pp Bookings Required, Group Bookings Welcome.

17 Whitsunday Multicultural Festival, Bowen Soundshell Santa Barbara Parade, 10:00am-2:00pm

17 Whitsunday Brahmans Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval in Proserpine, 3:00pm-7:00pm

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

18 Distinguished Gentleman's Ride, various location, 8:00am-11:00am, Registration Required to Participate

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

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

26 National Sorry Day

27 National Reconciliation Week, May 27th – June 3rd

27 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

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

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

31 Whitsunday Cruisin’ Car Club SHOW & Shine, LOCATION, 8:00am-11:30am

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Friday 2nd May

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Saturday 3rd May

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Beach Boys Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
• Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
• Coral Sea Pavillion: (Live Music & DJ Session 1pm – 6pm)

Sunday 4th May

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Beach Boys Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
• Coral Sea Pavillion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)

Thursday 8th May

• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

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After a spectacular debut at the Airlie Beach Hotel last year, The Australian Shania Twain Show is making its much-anticipated return and just in time for Mother's Day.

The powerhouse behind the show, Ally Friendship, said she can’t wait to bring the fun back to the Whitsundays, promising a night full of singing, dancing, crowd participation, and a few special surprises.

"We are absolutely excited to be coming back," Ally said.

“We had so much fun last time and, because this one is a Mother's Day Special, there's hopefully going to be a lot more involvement. People bring your mums out, and we've got some beautiful little gifts to hand out during the show this time.”

Ally’s tribute to Shania Twain first took shape in 2020, born during the COVID lockdowns. After coming out of the first lockdown, Ally and her band sold out their very first performance and she said it was amazing.

Ally has been in the music industry for some time, and she was always asked if she would do a Shania Twain tribute, but always refused, saying she loved the superstar idol too much!

But it seems the pull to Shania Twain was too strong, because now Ally and her band have been performing the tribute for five years.

The show quickly became a success, not only for Ally’s striking resemblance and vocals but also because of the heart and connection shared with her band, particularly her two backing singers. Their bond adds a powerful depth to performances, especially during emotional songs like ‘From This Moment’.

Fans attending the show can expect a night packed with hits like ‘Man! I Feel Like a Woman’, heartfelt moments, and lots of audience participation with Ally often jumping off stage to chat and dance with the crowd.

"We get everyone involved, last time we were there, we even brought a few young girls on stage to sing. We might get some mums up this time,” said Ally.

And as for the secret gifts? While Ally is keeping most of the details under wraps, she hinted at a touching tradition that she has done in the past but never before in Airlie Beach.

Ally said the show is perfect for celebrating Mother's Day and encouraged locals and visitors alike to come along.

The Shania Twain tribute show will perform at the Airlie Beach Hotel on Mother's Day weekend. Get ready to grab your cowboy hat, dust off your leopard print, join in the fun and as Ally says "Let's go, girls!"

The Australian Shania Twain Show won’t be the only one bringing the magic of Mother’s Day, the Airlie Beach Hotel is giving a free bottle of wine for every table booking for the day.

Book now so you don’t miss out.

WHAT: The Australian Shania Twain Show
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 10th May 2pm – 5.30pm & Sunday 11th May (Mother’s Day!) 2pm – 5.30pm

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Don't miss out on the fun, when The Australia Shania Twain Show come to town.
The Australia Shania Twain Show will be performing at The Pub this Mother's Day weekend

Photos sourced: Facebook

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Bluey’s Home Exhibit Now Open Until 2026!

In a major win for Bluey fans, the Crisafulli Government has confirmed that the beloved Bluey’s Home exhibit will be extending its stay in Brisbane until 2026, thanks to overwhelming visitor demand.

The immersive experience, inspired by the hit TV show Bluey, has reached an incredible milestone, attracting 200,000 visitors since opening in November last year.

Bluey’s World, was recently recognised by TIME Magazine on its World’s Greatest Places to Visit list for 2025, cementing its status as a world-class attraction.

The 200,000th visitor received an exclusive VIP card – granting unlimited access to Bluey’s World.

They join fellow Bluey fans Eva Mendes, Chris Hemsworth and Kylie Minogue.

Bluey’s World is produced by BBC Studios and HVK World, and supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland, and Brisbane City Council via Brisbane Economic Development Agency.

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said he was thrilled with the success of Bluey’s World.

“The Heeler Family is one of Brisbane’s greatest exports, and it’s no wonder people are flying in from around the world to enjoy Bluey’s World,” Minister Powell said.

“It has become one of the city’s greatest family attractions and is generating significant economic benefits to the region.

“Visitors have come from across Australia, as well as New Zealand, North America, the United Kingdon, Canada and Singapore.

“We anticipate the exhibit will help to generate up to $18 million for our state economy, as visitors make the most of our hotels, restaurants and other hospitality in their time here.

“I’m confident we’ll attract at least another 200,000 visitors who want to immerse themselves in this wonderful exhibit.”

Andrew Kay, who produces Bluey’s World, said the response had been phenomenal.

“Seeing families laugh, play and explore the attraction has been incredibly rewarding,” Mr Kay said.

“We set out to create a truly special experience and it’s wonderful to watch it become a must-visit Brisbane destination for fans of all ages.”

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Film and Arts Mackay is inviting locals to enjoy an award-winning international film and support a vital local cause at their upcoming fundraising screening.

The evening will feature My Favourite Cake, a tender and subversive Iranian drama that took home two major prizes at this year’s Berlinale Film Festival. Directed by Maryam Moghadam and Behtash Sanaeeha, the film explores themes of love, loneliness and quiet rebellion through the story of Mahin, a 70-year-old woman in Tehran determined to reclaim joy and connection later in life.

Audiences will also be treated to a bonus short film, Veil, by Mackay-born filmmaker Sarah Hope.

All proceeds from the evening will be matched by Film and Arts Mackay and donated to the Mackay Women’s Centre.

“This is our annual fundraiser, and we wanted to combine powerful storytelling with real local impact,” a spokesperson for the group said. “It’s a great night out that also supports women in our region.”

My Favourite Cake is presented in Persian with English subtitles and is rated M for mature themes. Both thought-provoking and warm, it’s a rare chance to see a film of this calibre on the big screen in Mackay.

WHAT: Fundraising film night — My Favourite Cake and bonus short film Veil

WHERE: CQ Conservatorium of Music, Mackay

WHEN: 7.30pm, Friday 2 May

TICKETS: www.trybooking.com/DANYS

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They are sisters by chance, but friends and now colleagues by choice.

The Brondello sisters, Tessa, Emma and Danika, work together in Allied Health at Mackay Base Hospital.

Occupational therapist Tessa has worked at Community Health and Therapy Services (CHATS) for 6 and a half years, while physiotherapist Emma joined the Mackay HHS four years ago. Now the ‘baby’ of the family, Danika, is following in her sibling’s footsteps starting her OT career three months ago.

The sisters grew up on a cane farm at Eton alongside their older sister Kara. They all attended St Patrick’s College in Mackay and went to James Cook University in Townsville.

As the second oldest, Tessa was the first to contemplate a career in healthcare.

“Helping people really appealed to me, but I have a weak stomach and can’t handle needles or blood, so OT was a good fit,” she said.

“I’m really not surprised my sisters followed me into health. We consider ourselves quite different, but we are all cut from the same cloth and are actually very similar.”

Emma said she enjoyed sports and science at school, so physiotherapy seemed like a natural career choice. As the youngest, Danika was gently encouraged in the direction of occupational therapy by her older sister.

“Tessa did guide me in that direction when I was in my final year of school – she gave me a better idea of what OT actually was and what it could look like,” Danika said.

“I helped counsel her about how you can work across a large variety of settings in OT; there’s just so much opportunity,” Tessa added.

A large extended family and strong ties to the community were a drawcard for the sisters to return to Mackay after graduation.

“For me it was serving the community we grew up in and giving back to them; plus Mackay is a really nice place,” Emma said

“We also have a large extended family locally, so we are all very close to our grandparents and cousins. Family was certainly one of the big reasons to come home and here to the HHS,” Tessa said.

“As you get older you realise how special these family relationships are and for that, we are certainly very lucky.”

Although they didn’t expect to become colleagues, the sisters feel it is helpful and has improved inter-departmental collaboration. Danika and Emma have already worked together with patients in the orthopaedic ward and ED.

“I think it can be helpful clinically as we gain more of an understanding and appreciation for the other sister’s discipline; I can always ask Tessa’s and Danika’s OT advice on certain situations and vice versa,” Emma said.

The sisters share an incredibly close bond and now as colleagues, their age differences feel much smaller and their similarities much more evident.

Danika was excited to join the Mackay HHS this year and work alongside her older sisters.

“I knew they both had good reputations here and were well respected by their colleagues which was really nice,” she said.

“People realise that we are sisters, and sometimes they do a double-take on the ward because we look so similar. Our mannerisms are similar too.”

These similarities also extend to not sharing the same passion for basketball as their famous aunt, Australian Opals coach and women’s basketball legend Sandy Brondello.

“We played in the backyard as kids, but there was too much pressure there,” Tess said.

“We all knew where our talents and real potential laid – and it definitely wasn’t with basketball.”

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Brondello sisters Danika, Emma and Tessa are all smiles as they reunite not just as family, but as colleagues at Mackay Base Hospital. Photo credit: MHHS

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With Life Hacks, Cheeky Humour And Pure Comedy Gold

Fresh from a sold-out season at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, internationally renowned comedian Jimeoin will bring his latest show, Pandemonium, to the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) on Friday, 2 May.

Known for his razor-sharp wit, observational humour, and infectious charm, Jimeoin’s new tour promises an evening of non-stop laughter, peppered with playful insights and quirky life advice. From effortless bed-making techniques to harmless pranks and clever ways to talk dirty in a nice way, Pandemonium offers more than just comedy – it’s part stand-up, part self-help, and completely unpredictable.

Audiences will get a glimpse into the hilarious chaos inside Jimeoin’s mind, and walk away laughing, enlightened, and perhaps even armed with a few unexpected life hacks.

Reviews:

“What a fantastic performer, what a wonderful comedian” – Seedoeatreview

“Has his victims doubled up in agonising laughter” –The Herald, Edinburgh

“Wickedly funny… exhilarating” –The Age

Tickets are available via www.themecc.com.au. Early bookings are recommended.

What: Jimeoin - Pandemonium

When: Friday 2 May 2025

Where: MECC Auditorium

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

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Comedy legend Jimeoin brings his wildly unpredictable new show Pandemonium to the MECC on 2 May, promising big laughs, quirky life tips, and a peek inside his hilariously chaotic mind.

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RADfest is back – and it’s rolling into Mackay with more momentum than ever.

This junior roller derby bootcamp and intensive training weekend was created to give regional skaters the same opportunities as their city-based peers. By bringing together elite coaches and junior players from across Australia, RADfest ensures local athletes don’t miss out on high-level training simply because of where they live.

Over three adrenaline-fuelled days, skaters will take part in bootcamp-style sessions led by a stellar line-up of guest coaches from Adelaide, Melbourne, Brisbane, Toowoomba and Townsville – including a 2025 Team Australia World Cup skater.

The public will also get a chance to witness the action firsthand, with exhibition games scheduled for both Saturday and Sunday at the Mackay Showgrounds. On Saturday, May 3 from 4:30pm, fans can catch the Tussle of The Toughest, Debutant Brawl and the RADfest Rumble – all guaranteed to be high-speed, hard-hitting showcases of skill and spirit.

Roller derby in regional areas isn’t like most sports. Unlike traditional team sports where clubs face off weekly, regional roller derby teams are often isolated – many towns only have one team. Mackay’s nearest opponent is Townsville, which makes training opportunities with other skaters few and far between. RADfest helps bridge that gap, giving juniors a rare chance to train and compete with others from across the country.

RADfest – short for Regional Alliance Derby Fest – brings elite coaches and passionate players to Mackay to help grow the sport locally while developing talent nationally. Junior skaters will converge on the Sugar City from all corners of Australia, with some travelling from as far north as Cairns and as far south as Tasmania.

For Mackay families, this event is especially important. The cost of travelling to major cities for training camps can be prohibitive, meaning events like RADfest are crucial in giving local skaters access to world-class coaching without having to leave home.

With the 2025 Junior Roller Derby World Cup being held in Brisbane this July, many of the skaters participating in RADfest are gearing up to represent Australia on the world stage – proudly wearing the green and gold in just a few months’ time. RADfest plays a vital role in preparing these athletes for international competition, offering them time with the coaches who will shape their skills and sharpen their game.

Mackay City Rollers, the hosting league, is proud to announce that five of their own junior skaters will be competing at the World Cup this year – a huge achievement that highlights the depth of talent coming out of regional Queensland.

Whether you’re a roller derby regular or a curious newcomer, RADfest promises a weekend of fierce competition, community connection and pure roller-powered energy. Don't miss it.

WHAT:

RADfest – Junior Roller Derby Bootcamp and Exhibition Games

WHEN:

Friday 2 May to Sunday 4 May 2025

Public games: Saturday 3 May from 4:30pm

WHERE:

Mackay Showgrounds

Milton Street, Mackay QLD

TICKETS:

Exhibition games open to the public

Tickets available at the door (cash and EFTPOS accepted)

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With Mackay Musical Comedy Players’ Production Of Footloose The Musical

Mackay Musical Comedy Players and McKays Solicitors present, Footloose The Musical! This electrifying show will hit the stage at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre for three performances only, Friday, May 23 at 8pm and Saturday, May 24, at 2pm & 8pm.

Based on the iconic 1984 film, Footloose is a celebration of youth, freedom, and the power of dance. With a rockin’ 80s soundtrack featuring hits like “Holding Out for a Hero,” “Let’s Hear It for the Boy,” and, of course, the title number “Footloose,” this musical promises to have audiences dancing in their seats.

Based on the 1984 film that defined a generation, Footloose tells the story of Ren McCormack (Dylan Waterson), a teenage boy from the city who moves to the small town of Bomont, only to find that dancing, and a lot of joy, has been banned. But Ren isn’t the type to sit quietly. His arrival shakes things up in a town that’s been grieving for too long, and as he connects with the town’s young people, he also challenges the deeply held beliefs of its adults.

At the heart of this production is a talented local cast, who bring warmth, humour, and complexity to their roles.

The story's emotional core lies in the tension between Ren and the town's spiritual leader, Reverend Shaw Moore (Anthony Edwards), a father weighed down by loss, and a young man determined to spark change, while his wife, Vi Moore (Kellie Doherty), quietly holds the emotional heartbeat of the story. As Ariel Moore (Meg McDonald), the reverend's rebellious daughter, we meet a young woman pulled between obedience and independence, tradition and transformation.

Surrounding them is a vibrant ensemble of characters: loving parents, loyal friends, small-town sceptics and dreamers, each with their own stake in Boment's future. The cast's chemistry and commitment bring all these layers to life.

This milestone production, following on from Goldilocks & The Three Bears earlier this year, is a highlight of MMCP's 60th Anniversary year, a celebration of six decades of bringing quality community theatre to the Mackay region.

Directed by Tonia Beckmann, with support from Director's Assistant Jay Shipston, Footloose is bursting with heart and energy.

The vibrant choreography is in the capable hands of Mikeely Kelly and Tahlia Kelly, while Musical Director Ben Clutterbuck leads the vocal and instrumental magic.

Behind the scenes, Producer Janet Jackson ensures every detail is finely tuned for a spectacular show.

Tonia shared her excitement, saying, "Mackay is so lucky to have depth in performers and it's another very talented cast that hits the stage in Footloose.

"What's so great this time around, is the family feels created by the number of mums and daughters, dads and daughters and partners all working together in the cast to create the magic onstage.

"It's encouraging also for the future of MMCP to see younger members of the club stepping into roles in directing teams over the last two years, sharing their skills after their own previous successes as talented performers on the stage!"

Featuring a cast of both familiar faces and rising stars within the MMCP family, Footloose promises unforgettable performances, electric choreography, and moments that will have you cheering from start to finish.

Following the success of previous MMCP productions such as Shrek, Mamma Mia, Into the Woods, and Goldilocks & The Three Bears, Footloose continues the club’s proud tradition of storytelling and community celebration.

Tickets are expected to sell fast for this limited season event. Don’t miss your chance to experience the rhythm, rebellion, and heart of Footloose The Musical. Grab your dancing shoes and join us for a night of non-stop entertainment!

Book now via The MECC website or at the box office.

WHAT:

Footloose The Musical – presented by Mackay Musical Comedy Players and McKays Solicitors

WHEN:

Friday, May 23 at 8pm

Saturday, May 24 at 2pm and 8pm

WHERE:

Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC)

TICKETS:

Available now via the MECC website or at the MECC Box Office

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The talented local cast of Mackay Musical Comedy Players' Footloose The Musical, ready to bring energy, emotion and a whole lot of 80s flair to the MECC stage this May. Photos supplied

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This Mother’s Day, treat the special women in your life to a delightful morning filled with joy, community spirit, and heartfelt appreciation at the Mother’s Day Morning Tea, part of the inaugural Proserpine Rock Wallaby Festival.

Join us on the morning of Sunday 11th May, in the auditorium of the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, and indulge in a spread of delicious homemade goodies, enjoy light entertainment, and soak up the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes this event so special.

But that's not all! Enter the draw for the cent sale raffle draw featuring amazing prizes donated by incredibly talented local artists and generous businesses from across our community. From handcrafted treasures to unique local experiences, there’s something truly special waiting our lucky winners.

Before or after your morning tea. take a stroll through Ken McPherson Park, right next door to the PEC, where the Handmade Art Markets will be in full swing. Discover unique pieces, lovingly crafted by local artisans, and maybe even pick up a last-minute gift for Mum!

This is more than just a morning tea — it’s a celebration of mothers, grandmothers, and all the nurturing women in our lives. Whether you come with family or friends, it's the perfect way to make cherished memories and share laughter and love.

Tickets are available now through the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. Don’t miss out scan the QR code or visit: proserpine.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/146466 to secure your spot.

Want to win 2 FREE tickets? Just share your thoughts or a heartfelt message about Mother’s Day in the comments on our event post on Facebook — we’ll be choosing a lucky winner on April 7th to join us for free! Let’s come together as a community to celebrate, appreciate, and uplift the wonderful women in our lives.

WHAT: Mother’s Day Morning Tea by the Rock Wallaby Festival
WHEN: Sunday 11th May, from 9:30am
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre (P.E.C)

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https://proserpine.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/146466

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Rock Wallaby Fest
Supplied / Media Release

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The students of St Catherine's Catholic College are bringing a classic Broadway musical to life this May, with their production of Meredith Willson’s The Music Man set to dazzle audiences at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

Running from Thursday 1 May to Saturday 3 May, this beloved story follows the antics of con-man Harold Hill, who arrives in the small town of River City, Iowa, posing as a band leader to swindle the townsfolk.

He convinces the good people of River City to invest in instruments and uniforms. But his plans to make a getaway are thrown into disarray when he falls for the sharp-witted town librarian, Marian.

Full of humour, heart, and toe-tapping tunes, The Music Man features book, music and lyrics by Meredith Willson, with a story by Willson and Franklin Lacey.

St Catherine's Catholic College production of ‘The Music Man’ will be approximately 210 minutes (including interval), and the show promises a full evening of entertainment for audiences of all ages.

Bookings are now open. For more information or to reserve your seats, contact the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on 4945 0405.

Don’t miss your chance to enjoy this joyful, high-energy musical theatre experience right here in the Whitsundays.

Performance schedule:

• Thursday 1 May – 7pm
• Friday 2 May – 7pm
• Saturday 3 May – 1pm & 7pm

What: The Music Man presented by St Catherine's Catholic College
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
When: Thursday May 1 – Saturday May 3

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1962 'The Music Man' film adaptation. Photo sourced: IMDb

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Are you looking for a new way to break up the work week? Airlie Beach Hotel are now hosting Musical Bingo.

Last Tuesday over 150 people joined in the fun for the first evening, and Musical Bingo Creator Danny is expecting more to show up in the future.

“Having such a big turnout on the first night was really great and it's great to see that everybody is engaging with it, and wanting to do something new,” said Danny.

“I call it the world's easiest pub game, because you don't need to know anything about the songs or answer any questions. It's just marking songs off the bingo card.

“People like it because it's very easy to get into. You don't really need to learn anything new. You just grab a bingo card and enjoy the music.”

This type of bingo works with every participant getting a unique bingo card and marking off the songs they hear. The first person to get two lines, either down, across or diagonal, shouts out 'BINGO!' and claims their prize.

Musical Bingo contains music from all different genres and eras, expect to hear tunes from the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s and now.

Danny enjoys coming up with different categories, including ‘Golden Hits’ which includes tracks from Frank Sinatra, and more recently he has created the ‘00’s Hits’ category. Hits from your favourite TV shows and Movies will also appear.

The history behind Musical Bingo goes back 15 years, to when Danny encountered a similar version in a bar in Vancouver. After coming back to Australia, Danny invented his own version of it. The original Musical Bingo debuted in Byron Bay, where Danny said it began to get immensely popular and shortly after, other bars across the country wanted Musical Bingo at their venue.

Now, it’s Airlie Beach Hotel’s turn for Musical Bingo, and with such a strong opening night, Musical Bingo is set to become a regular favourite in the local nightlife calendar.

Musical Bingo is free to play and over $350 worth of prizes can be won.

And the game comes with its own cheeky catchphrase, “Dropping beats, not balls.”

Also on Tuesday nights are Airlie Beach Hotel’s Pizza Special, grab a $20 pizza by using ‘The Pass’ App, and tuck into a delicious pizza whilst playing the worlds easiest pub game.

What: Musical Bingo
When: Every Tuesday at 7pm
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel, Sports Bar
Tickets: FREE TO PLAY but book your table today!

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Proserpine State High School are proud to present their energetic school production of Disney’s Newsies – The Broadway Musical.

More than 100 students and staff will bring the entertaining musical to life on their Performing Arts Centre stage form 8th-10th May, with many months of hard work going in to perfecting lines, dance routines and musical scores.

Based on the real-life Newsboy Strike of 1899, this Disney musical tells the story of Jack Kelly, a rebellious newsboy who dreams of a life as an artist away from the big city.

After publishing giant Joseph Pulitzer raises newspaper prices at the newsboys' expense, Kelly and his newsies take action.

With help from the beautiful female reporter Katherine Plumber, all of New York City soon recognises the power of "the little man".

Year 11 student Wiremu Tairaki plays character Joseph Pulitzer and described this year’s production as “grand”. He said he has loved everything about the show so far including the sets and dance routines.

“It feels good to be back performing in one of our school musicals,” he said.

“Everyone is appreciative of the effort from our teachers and the staff involved in making it successful.”

Musical Director Amelia Hinschen said a highlight from rehearsals for the musical was the broad range of talent showcased by the students.

She said that everyone is extremely talented and are working together to try and create something that will work best for the whole cast.

Don’t miss the opportunity to support Proserpine State High School’s students and enjoy an unforgettable theatrical experience for the whole family.

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The Proserpine State High School cast of Disney's Newsies - The Broadway Musical. Photo credit: Victoria Velton

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April

24 Paper Poppy Making, Youth Space Proserpine, 3:00pm-5:00pm

25 ANZAC Day – Various Commemorations, see Whitsunday Regional Council website for your local Service times.

26 Park Run, Meeting Area D, Coral Sea Marina, starting at 7:00am

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

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

29 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

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

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

30 Free Art Club, Youth Space Proserpine, 3:00pm-5:00pm

May

3 How Do You Library? Community Expo, Cannonvale Library, 8:45am-11:45am

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

5 Labour Day

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