At the weekend David Flower organised a beautiful bunch of artists to come together for an intimate three-day gathering on a private property in Preston (Conway Rd).
The gathering offered a variety of entertainment across different music genres, including folk /funk /rock and roots artists and a full program of activities, games and guaranteed spontaneous moments known as the ‘Flower Effect’.
The fantastic festival helped raise much-needed funds for Eco Barge Clean Seas, a spectacular organisation that arranges marine debris clean-ups alongside caring for injured turtles.
Founder of the festival, David Flower, gushed over how the three-day event went:
“I think everyone was just in awe of the atmosphere that was there because the setting was so beautiful, the skies were blue, and the sun would bank around the back of the stage, so everyone was in the shade, and early in the day and at night, everyone had a dance.”
“It was just beautiful.”
Around 200 individuals attended the event, which David said gave the festival a real “community feel.”
Some highlights from the weekend included the finishing act Salt n Steel, who got all the audience jumping and singing along at the end of the night, and the game of backyard cricket. However, David added that the “cherry on the top of a very great cake was that “everyone left with a big smile on their faces and the rumour’s getting out now of how great it was!”
While they are still counting numbers for how much was raised for Eco Barge, last year they raised $2.5k, and are expecting the numbers to be even higher this year.
Keep an eye out for next year's festival and join in raising funds for a great cause.

The festival had a fantastic line-up of artists
Families came together to enjoy the live entertainment
Musicians took to the stage to play in the sun
Attendees danced the night away
A beautiful turtle decoration
The lovely eco barge volunteers

Photo credit: Bronwyn Garland & Rion

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The community Colour Fun Run is back for 2024, with Whitsunday Counselling and Support gearing up for a bigger event than ever.
Get ready for a jumping castle, bubbles, face painting, sausage sizzle, raffles, prizes, and of course the coveted colour fun run - this absolutely free event will see smiles and laughter from everyone who attends!
Taking place during Child Protection Week, organisers aim to raise awareness that all adult community members are responsible for ensuring that our children remain safe and nurtured.
The Child Protection Week message for 2024 is ‘child protection is everyone’s business.’

What: Colour Run for Child Protection
Where: Coral Sea Marina Gardens
When: 9am on Saturday 7th September.
Registrations: FREE EVENT, just show up!

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August
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm
31 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
31 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete, Cyclone Shelter, Primary school, Sterry St, Proserpine. 
31 QCWA Public Meeting, Cannonvale Neighbourhood Centre, from 10am

September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
4 Stella Life Morning Tea, Bowen Garden Club, from 9am
6-8 Whitsundays Writers Festival
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
7 Colour Run for Child Protection, Coral Sea Marina Gardens, from 9am
7 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
7 Kath and Kim Drag Bingo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
8 Whitsunday Thrift Club Market, Kipara Rainforest Retreat, from 9am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
13 Celtic Illusion, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
21 Mayor’s Charity Ball, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 5pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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Friday 30 August
Flametree Gathering (from 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Zed Charles (8pm – 12am)
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm - 8pm)

Saturday 31 August
Flametree Gathering (from 9am)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Elton John Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sweet Alibi’s (8pm – 12am)
KC’s: Corey Harris (from 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm - 4pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Live Music (from 1pm)

Sunday 1 September
Flametree Gathering (from 8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Elton John Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Josiah (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm - 4pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)
Colonial Palms: Jazz Afternoon with Nick De Gregorio

Thursday 5 September
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

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The highly anticipated arrival of the 32nd Variety Victoria Bash arrived in Airlie Beach last Friday 23 August.

83 themed cars and 292 people drove through our iconic main street before finishing their journey alongside Airlie Beach foreshore.

The 2024 Variety Victoria Bash began in Swan Hill, Victoria on Friday 16 August and travelled over 3,500 kilometres to Airlie Beach, arriving eight days later. This year’s course was named ‘Red Dirt to Reef’

Along the way, drivers delivered over $100,000 in vital grants to schools and regional communities, directly benefiting children and families in these areas. In addition to the grants, the Bash also injected over $100,000 into each local town every time they stopped for fuel, snacks, lunch, dinner and accommodation.

The 2024 Variety Victoria Bash raised over $1.6 million and Motoring and Events Manager Scott Watson is thrilled with the figure and with the work they have done.

“In Bundaberg we travelled to a Kindy in a low socio-economic area and we supplied a grand of $2000 for resources,” said Scott.

“Those resources are getting underpants, socks and food for the kids, it was beautiful and the manager of the centre was in tears.

Chief Executive Office (CEO) of the Variety Victoria Mandy Burns said during this Bash they visited 10 different schools and communities and offered grants to those in need.

“We granted to those schools and communities in terms of helping a school finish off their playground, providing a class with a set of iPads, and tonight (Friday 23 August) we're providing an insulin pump for a local teenager,” said Mandy.

“Those sorts of things mean it has been successful and our awesome 292 people have all raised a minimum of $5,000 each, in fact, have raised closer to $15,000 - $20,000 each.

“The other element of success is we deliberately target communities where we can invest and spend money.

“We've had approximately 20 schools and kindergartens that have also then benefited from fundraising from us.”

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Variety Victoria CEO Mandy Burns

Some of the bright coloured vehicles arriving in Airlie Beach last week

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The forecast is in… Leave your hats on and dress for a great night of Feelin’ Alright!
Step into the world of music legend Joe Cocker with The Joe Cocker Express!

The Airlie Beach Hotel invites you to an unforgettable evening of music and nostalgia, celebrating the legendary artist. The Joe Cocker Express will take you on a nostalgic journey with authentic renditions of Cocker’s greatest hits, ensuring a night full of timeless tunes and unforgettable moments.

Experience the magic of a 9-piece powerhouse band led by Australia's very own Chev Wilson. With a voice that remarkably echoes young Joe Cocker, Chev brings a fresh, electrifying energy to timeless classics like "You Are So Beautiful," "Up Where We Belong," "Delta Lady," "Unchain My Heart," "The Letter," and "With A Little Help From My Friends," among many others.

To the band Joe Cocker was a powerhouse in the music industry, leaving an indelible mark with his soulful voice and passionate performances.

“He was not just a singer; he was a true artist who poured his heart and soul into every note. Once we heard a song recreated by the rock soul voice of Joe Cocker, it was his way we forever wanted to hear it,” the band’s website reads.

“With a career spanning decades, Cocker’s influence on rock and blues is immeasurable.”

The fantastic tribute performance will take you on a journey of Cocker’s remarkable career, from his early days in Sheffield to his legendary Woodstock performance and beyond. The Joe Cocker Express is a tribute to the man, his music, and his enduring legacy.

“We are really excited to come up and play at Airlie Beach,” emphasised Rebecca Muino Director of Joe Cocker Express and back-up vocalist.

“We are going to enjoy a weekend there.”

Don’t miss this opportunity to relive the magic and experience the timeless songs that have touched the hearts of generations. Get your tickets now and be part of a night that celebrates the life and music of one of the greatest singers and voices of all time!

What: Joe Cocker Express
When: Saturday September 7 and Sunday September 8 at 2pm
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
Tickets: FREE, but book a table to avoid disappointment on the day!

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The third annual Whitsundays Songwriter Festival is scheduled to take place this October and organisers are appealing for sponsors who would like to donate to this much-loved local event.

The festival is dedicated to developing amateur songwriters in the Whitsundays and connecting them with world-class mentors to help further their skills, capacity, and careers.

Last year, highly acclaimed artists Vika & Linda, and Toni Childs took participants on an incredible journey which culminated in a special Concert and Conversation event.

This year, six world class songwriters and artists have once again been invited to the region to mentor a new generation of local songwriters, create new work, deliver an emerging songwriter workshop, and perform in the event showcase,

There are only 12 spots up for grabs in the workshop and tickets go on sale soon, with the full line-up of attending artists expected to be announced soon.

Co-Founder of the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Karen Jacobsen said she is thrilled for this year’s festival.

“I’m excited for local emerging songwriters to have the opportunity to be mentored by our superstar faculty in 2024, right here in the region,” said Karen.

“Our line-up features some of Australia’s most successful, iconic recording artists and we look forward to announcing them soon.”

Whitsundays Songwriter Festival are seeking donations from sponsors or crowdfunding, all crowdfunding donations over $2 are tax deductible.

If you loved last year’s Concert and Conversation event and are looking forward to discovering this years’ extraordinary line-up please donate to the festival to ensure the continuation of another one of the region’s inspiring cultural events.

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WHAT: Whitsundays Songwriters Festival
WHEN: October 10th - 15th

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

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The Airlie Beach Festival of Music (ABFoM) is back for its 12th annual celebration, bringing three days of legendary music and festivities from November 8th to 10th.

Featuring an incredible lineup including Sweet (UK), Rose Tattoo, Pseudo Echo. Jebediah, Thirsty Merc, Southern Sons, Christine Anu, Ash Grunwald, Reece Mastin, Sandi Thom, 19 Twenty and Bondi Cigars, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience.

To celebrate, ABFoM is offering you a chance to win the Ultimate Party in Paradise Package. This exclusive giveaway includes everything you need for a perfect escape to The Whitsundays and to enjoy this party in paradise.
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Here’s what’s included in the prize;
   • Return flights for two: Enjoy direct flights to Whitsunday Coast Airport from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, or Cairns, so you can dive straight into paradise.
   • Five nights of luxury accommodation: Stay in a Waterview Queen Room at Heart Hotel, valued at $1,325. Relax and take in the spectacular views of The Whitsundays.
   • Scenic flight and reef adventure: Experience a breathtaking flight over Heart Reef and a thrilling tour to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet with Ocean Rafting, valued at $1,034.
   • Daily breakfast at The Deck: Start your days with a delicious breakfast to fuel your adventures, valued at $250.
   • Seafood platter for two: Enjoy a fresh seafood platter at Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill, valued at $155, while soaking in the stunning views.
   • Two 3-day passes to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music: Enjoy live performances from legendary artists with two passes to this iconic festival, valued at $640.
The Ultimate Party in Paradise Package is an amazing prize and would be an unforgettable experience. All aspects of the prize are amazing on their own, combined, the winner will have an incredible time in arguably Australia’s best location.

This year’s festival is stacked with an epic lineup of performers. UK rock band Sweet are headlining the festival and are bringing high standards to their performance. Renowned for recreating the high energy and soaring vocals associated with the Sweet sound is something they bring to all of their live performances and is the Sweet trademark.

It’s a tropical getaway like no other, says Gavin “Butto” Butlin, ABFoM Founder, “This will be the ultimate prize to win and enjoy a festival like nowhere else. We have an awesome lineup, an incredible location, and the best prizes to go with it. You’d be mad not to enter.” 
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To enter, complete the form on ABFoM’s website and share in 25 words or less how you would Party in Paradise.
ABFoM are eager to hear your most exciting and creative ideas. Don’t miss your chance to win this incredible package and experience the best of The Whitsundays alongside world-class music. Entries close on Friday September 13, 2024.

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One of the world’s most successful cult comedians is heading to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre today and the audience can expect an evening filled with his signature blend of irreverent and wildly entertaining humour.
Highly hilarious and extremely popular English comedian Ross Noble is gracing the Proserpine Entertainment Centre with his 21st solo stand-up tour ‘Jibber Jabber Jamboree.’
Noble invites you to an evening of inspired whimsy and inventive hilarity, showcasing why he’s the unrivalled master of freewheeling, stream-of-consciousness stand-up. Expect a performance rich with improv and audience participation, ensuring an unforgettable night of spontaneous laughter and joy.
Proserpine is thrilled to host the esteemed comedian on his Australian tour. Before arriving in Proserpine, he’ll be entertaining audiences across Alice Springs, Wollongong, and Mackay.
Noble rose to fame through his appearances on British television shows such as ‘Have I Got News for You’ as well as, other interview and panel shows.
In 2007, the acclaimed comedian was ranked 10th on Channel 4’s list of the 100 Greatest Stand-Ups. During that time, he also toured Australia on his motorbike, covering over 26,000 kilometres and documenting the journey. This adventure was later broadcast in 2009.
Noble is not only a talented comedian but has also made his mark as an actor, appearing in both films and stage productions.
In 2012, he made his film debut in the fantasy comedy horror movie ‘Stitches’, where he starred as Stitches, the killer clown.
In 2015 he made his musical theatre debut in The Producers and in 2018 was nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award for his performance in Mel Brooks Young Frankenstein musical in the West End.
Noble is often referred to as a ‘randomist’, and asking What’s it about? What will we learn? How will it change the world? Are all pointless questions to ask when Noble is off on one of his tangents.
Join the master surrealist as he uses an infinite imagination and plenty of tomfoolery in a night not to be missed.
Grab a ticket and come and enjoy the ride.

https://alist.com.au/tours/jibber-jabber-jamboree/

What: Ross Noble’s Jibber Jabber Jamboree
When: Friday August, 30th
Where: The Proserpine Entertainment Centre

Join Ross Noble at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre for a night full of laughs!
Jibber Jabber Jamboree comes to Prossie!

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Friday 30th August

Bird Life Mackay
6.30am
Join BirdLife Mackay on the last Friday of the month and walk through the Botanic Gardens and along the Lagoons to identify and count the different bird species along the way. This is a free activity and a great opportunity to learn about some of our local bird species. Birdlife Mackay welcomes all interested people to come along. Meet the group at the Viewing Deck next to the Café.
Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens

Matwork Pilates Slade Point
5.45pm
This is a beginner experience and has been designed to show you the ropes and give you a taste of Pilates and how it should feel. This is a no pressure class, it's for beginners to have fun learning yet still receiving the full value of a Pilates session. 
Pilates should improve strength, flexibility, and overall well-being. BRING: A Pilates / Yoga mat, a towel and a water bottle. $25, bookings essential via Double M Fitness
Slade Point Community Hall, 4 Wren street, Slade Point

LIVE Music
6.30pm
Get ready for the ultimate LIVE experience, featuring Rosco!
Seabreeze Hotel

Saturday 31st August  

Mosaic Tealight Making
10.30am
Come along for a fun afternoon creating, in a relaxed setting and enjoy the steps to a beautiful Moroccan Mosaic Tealight. Choose from a range of coloured mosaics, as we design stunning patterns. All supplies included and guidance to create your masterpiece. Glass tealight size: 8cm high x 7.5cm top diameter. BYO your favourite beverage and nibbles, if you please. Seats are limited and bookings are essential. Book via The Creative Art Studio.
Shop 1, 3 Ungerer St, North Mackay

Pets At The Pub
From 12pm
Get ready for a wag-worthy day out at Pets at the Pub on Saturday, August 31st, from 2-5pm. The event will feature a range of fun activities, including: Live entertainment by DeJaVu, glitter tattoos for the kids, a lucky pet barrel draw with exciting prizes and a pet-friendly menu. All pets are welcome to join in the fun! Guests are encouraged to bring along their picnic rug, bean bag, chair, or pet bed to relax and enjoy this outdoor event.
Seabreeze Hotel

Mackay's Scottish Bluewater Fling 2024
From 1pm
Pipebands from Townsville, Rockhampton and Mackay come together to present a Scottish Festival, North Queensland style in the heart of Mackay. Bagpipes, Drums, Bagrock, Celtic Folk, Hielan Dancing, Tartan, Clan banners, Traditional food and much, much more – this is a completely free event! Visit www.bluewaterfling.com for more information.
Bluewater Quay

Community Rhythm Circle – Northern Beaches
4pm
Rhythm Circles are about fun and connection for all ages. No previous drumming experience needed. We've got the drums and percussion; you just need to bring your smile and a willingness to join in. You are welcome to bring your own drums and shakers if you want to. Cost: FREE. Book your spot at humantix.com
Bucasia Esplenade

Sunday 1st September  

BMA River 2 Reef Ride 2024
5am
The 2024 BMA River 2 Reef Ride is a weekend Festival of Riding! Kicking off on Saturday with the Golding Kids Colour Ride! The BMA River 2 Reef Ride will be Sunday the 1st September with the 30km Queensland Country Bank | Health Fund Dash, the 60km City Fitness Epic and the 100km Kaeser Compressor Grand Fondo! Visit www.river2reefride.com.au
Mackay Botanical Gardens Meadow Amphitheatre

Dad’s Day in the Valley
9am - 3pm
The Pioneer Valley Car Club’s annual charity event is back for 2024. This year’s beneficiaries are Chances House and Mirani School. See an array of classic, vintage, modern and custom cars and motorbikes and don’t forget the array of food stalls.
Alexandra Street, Mirano

Monday 2nd September

Services Australia Drop In
9am
Do you require support with accessing your MyGov, or need information around payment and services with Centrelink, Medicare, and Child Support? Come along to these drop-in sessions to have a face-to-face chat.
Dudley Denny City Library

Tuesday 3rd September

DBCT Kids Theatre Season
Sessions: 9.30am and 12.30pm
DBCT Kids' Theatre Season presents CDP with Tall Stories' production of THE GRUFFALO based on the award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson & Axel Scheffler. Songs, laughs and scary fun for children aged 3+ and their grown-ups…*This is a relaxed session. Relaxed sessions are for anyone who would benefit from a calmer environment
The MECC

Morning Melodies At Souths
11am
Enjoy a morning of fun, food and entertainment with Morning Melodies at the Leagues Club with Anette Worthington performing live once a month! The cafe will be open from 10am & the bistro from 12pm.
Souths Leagues Club Mackay

Wednesday 4th September  

Mackay Farmers’ Market
6:30 – 10:30am
Shop local at the Mackay Farmers' Market and enjoy a morning on the Pioneer River.
Grab your reusable coffee cups, drink tumblers, water kefir bottles, produce and carry bags and stop in at the Mackay Farmers' Market every Wednesday.
Bluewater Quay

Party In The Park
9am
Join in on this FREE family event by Queensland Child Protection Week. Connect with family support providers and other parents in a fun and relaxed environment. Fun and entertainment for the kids. Proudly sponsored by: Peak Care Queensland, Channel 7 Queensland, Channel 7 +, Telstra, Kay Mcgrath & The Queensland Government.
John Breen Park, North Mackay

Thursday 5th September  

Native Plants Queensland
7am
Are you interested in local native plants? Come along to a Native Plants Queensland - Society for Growing Australian Plants (NPQ-SGAP) Mackay branch by attending a monthly meeting. Meetings are free to attend, guest speakers, plant of the month, show and tell and more! For more information or to attend a meeting, please email the Branch Secretary - npqmackay@gmail.com
Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens

Riverside Markets
3pm-8pm
Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations by crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!
Bluewater Quay

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Director Kristyn Everett has assembled an impressive cast for David Williamson’s Family Values, Kucom Theatre’s final production for the year, which opens on Thursday 24th October for a two-week season.
The play centres around Roger (played by Greg Webb), a retired judge, who is turning 70. All he wants for his birthday is some quality time with his wife Sue (Bronwyn Grannall) and their three children Lisa, Emily and Michael (Sarah Neivandt, Molly Betteridge, and Michael Brennan)—no gifts, no fuss. But the younger family members have other ideas, and the carefully planned low-key birthday party turns into something altogether different when unexpected guests Noeline and Saba (Megan Geoghegan and Nicole Pasquale) threaten to disrupt the peaceful family gathering.
Kucom Theatre said ticket sales have already been strong, “Early Bird bookings opened on Wednesday 14th August, for one week only.
“During that one week we sold just over fifteen per cent of all available tickets.
“But don’t worry, there are still plenty of good seats left, with a discounted rate for pensioners, students, groups of 6 or more, and an extra special discount for Kucom members (proof of membership required).”

What: Kucom Theatre’s Lates Production: Family Values
When: 24, 25, 26, 31 October and 1 & 2 November at 7.30pm, with a matinee at 2pm on Sunday 27 October.
Where: 1 Snow Wright Ct, Andergrove
Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/family-values.

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For further information:
Phone: 0439 684 548
Email: admin@kucom.org.au
Website: www.kucom.org.au

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A parade of 36 Postie bike riders have zoomed off on a week-long adventure, starting from Mackay and journeying through Eungella Dam, Lake Elphinstone, Lake Maraboon, Cania Dam, Lake Awoonga, and Lake Monduran, before making their way back to Mackay.
The endurance ride is all for a good cause with the group of riders raising vital funds for regional families facing childhood cancer.  
The Postie Bike Safari now in its 11th year will cover over 2,000kms with riders running raffles and seeking donations along the way whilst spreading awareness about Childhood Cancer Support.
Childhood Cancer Support provides free accommodation and support services for regional families who must travel to Brisbane for long-term life-saving cancer treatment.  
So far, the group has raised over $78,000 for the charity.
Childhood Cancer Support Committee Member Bert Pulman says he is proud to raise funds for such an important charity.
“Having relied on Childhood Cancer Support’s services for my own family during my son’s treatment in Brisbane, I know first-hand how important this charity is for regional families.
‘’It’s an incredibly emotional and difficult time when you’re told that your child has cancer.
“The logistics of travelling to Brisbane for long-term treatment is an added stress and burden that you just don’t have the capacity to deal with at that time,’’ Mr Pulman said.
‘’I’m very grateful to the riders and everyone who has donated.
“All the money raised in this year’s safari will go towards a new accommodation village with a further 15 units for regional families, adding an additional 5,000 nights of free accommodation each year.
‘’We have a great team of riders and support members who enjoy the week-long adventure,” he remarked.
To find out more about Childhood Cancer Support, or to donate directly online, visit ccs.org.au

Photos of their trip from Mackay to Moranbah. Photo source: Postie Bike Safari (Facebook).

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Three face painters, two glitter tattoo artists, three jumping castles, roaming entertainment from Sensory Circus, a petting zoo and a hair braider – now that’s a recipe for a party in a park!

Party in the Park, which celebrates and raises awareness of Child Protection Week each year, will be held from 9am to 11.30am in John Breen Park, Malcomson Street, North Mackay, on Wednesday, September 4.

Mayor Greg Williamson said families could connect with playgroups and children’s service providers in a fun and relaxed environment with stacks of free entertainment and activities.

“This is a free morning that highlights the tremendous children’s services and organisations Mackay has to offer for children aged up to six,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Dozens of service providers have stalls at the event and they offer fun, interactive activities and displays.

“It makes for a family-friendly morning out and is a great way for young families to network, socialise and find out what support is available to them.

“I’d encourage everyone with young children, including carers and grandparents, to bring them along, get their faces painted, enjoy the free entertainment and have some fun.”

Mackay Family Support Alliance member Christie Pearson from The Neighbourhood Hub said it was important to promote Child Protection Week.

“The theme of Child Protection Week, which runs from September 1 to 7, is ‘protecting children is everybody’s business’,” Ms Pearson said.

“Events like this are an opportunity to promote the value of children and highlight services and networks that support parents through what can be a very stressful time of life,” she said.

“There’s an old saying that raising a child takes a village, and events like this are a great way for new parents to make connections and find networks that become that village.”

For more information on the event, follow Party in the Park on Facebook.

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More than 300 participants revved up their themed cars for a week-long adventure to raise an astounding $1.5 million for children in need.

The 32nd Variety Victoria Bash officially hit the gas on August 16, shifting into high gear for an unforgettable adventure, kicking off in Swan Hill, Victoria, the convoy then travelled through New South Wales, following a pit stop at the sunshine state of Mackay before concluding their joy ride in Airlie Beach last Saturday on August 24th.

Along the way, they delivered over $100,000 in vital grants to schools and regional communities, directly benefiting children and families in these areas. In addition to the grants, the Bash also injected over $100,000 into each local town they stopped in for fuel, snacks, meals, and accommodation.

Mandy Burns, CEO of Variety Victoria, expressed her excitement and said that, “This event not only brings together a vibrant community of supporters but also makes a tangible difference in the lives of children across the country.”

Scott Watson, Motoring Events Manager has been involved in the variety bash for three years and said that the smiles on children’s faces is what drives him, and others, to keep going.

“We granted a couple of thousand dollars to a kindergarten and the manager was just in tears because it makes such a difference to them, being able to buy resources and things that the kids need and that’s why you do it… that’s why everybody here does it.”

Mr Watson encourages those that are interested to get involved and experience “the amazing group of humans that do this, if it’s on your bucket list, come along and join the family.”

All funds raised go directly towards supporting Variety’s mission to provide essential equipment, services and support to children facing challenging circumstances.

For more information about the Variety Victoria Bash, including event updates and ways to support this remarkable cause, please visit the Variety Victoria website.

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Over the last 32 years, the Variety Victoria Bash has travelled over 123,000 kilometres and raised more than $31 million for children. Photos supplied by Variety Victoria

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