Entertainment

Event guide

Event guide

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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Less Than Two Months Until Disney Magic Arrives In Mackay!

Less Than Two Months Until Disney Magic Arrives In Mackay!

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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Photo Of The Week

Photo Of The Week

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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On This Day, Oct 9th 1986

On This Day, Oct 9th 1986

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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Health Busters

The Heart Of Our Community On Display At The 2026 Mackay Volunteers Expo

May 21, 2026

Nigel dalton, Anthony Edwards, Amy Jeffcoat, Andrea Bye and John Doyle. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Volunteers from all walks of life came together at the 2026 Mackay Volunteers Expo, where the spirit of giving back was proudly on display inside the Big Shed Pavilion at the Mackay Showgrounds on May 17th. The free event attracted a strong crowd and featured dozens of local organisations, from wildlife and animal carers to rescue services, arts groups and sporting clubs.

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Visitors had the opportunity to learn about a wide range of volunteer roles and speak directly with representatives about how they could get involved. The expo highlighted the vital role volunteers play across the Mackay region and inspired many attendees to consider offering their time, skills and compassion to support important community causes.

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Jon Chan, Addie Frazer and Kelly Frazer

 

Cindy-Jo Zahmel and Nikki Vella power  

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Lyn, Brian, Mary, Chris and Nita  

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Kym McInerney and Ros green holding Tully  

 

 

Lachy  

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Sean Mcinnes holding Hiccup, Yevette Sargent holding jasmine, and Yvette Jeffs holding Zena  

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Ricky, Bushy, Patty, Craig, David and Rachael

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$2 Million Lotto Win Brings Life-Changing Moment For Mackay Couple

May 21, 2026

Image for illustrative purposes only. Photo supplied

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A Mackay couple are celebrating a life-changing windfall after a spontaneous decision to buy a last-minute lottery ticket turned into a $2 million prize over the weekend.

The North Queensland pair held one of the five division one winning entries nationally in Saturday Gold Lotto draw 4677, drawn on Saturday 16th May. Each division one winning entry pocketed $2 million.

Despite having known about their multi-million-dollar windfall for several days, the couple said the news was still sinking in.

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“We’ve been patiently waiting for this phone call since Saturday!” the winning wife laughed.

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“It’s absolutely life-changing! We’re pretty excited.

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“Around 6pm on Saturday night we saw that $10 million was on offer in the draw and we decided to put on a last-minute ticket.

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“Then hubby frantically came in around 9pm on Saturday night with the The Lott app open and said, ‘Is this true? Did we win $2 million?’.

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“It’s come at the most perfect time. We were going through a bit, and we were worried for our family.

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“We can now pay off the mortgage, complete home renovations and go on an overseas holiday!

“We’re keen to go to Scotland and do a trip around Australia.

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“There will definitely be some celebrations tonight.

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“Thank you! Thank you!”

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The winning numbers in Saturday Gold Lotto draw 4677 were 32, 10, 3, 39, 33 and 23, while the supplementary numbers were 42 and 37.

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Across Australia, there were five division one winning entries in the draw, with three in Queensland and one each in New South Wales and Western Australia.

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In 2025, more than 121.6 million winners took home more than $3.93 billion in prize money.
 
Last financial year, Australia’s official lotteries contributed more than $1.66 billion via state lottery taxes and donations to help community initiatives, such as hospitals, health research, disaster relief and education.  As part of its commitment to supporting the community, The Lott proudly supports Play For Purpose, the not-for-profit charity raffle that gives Australians the chance to win while helping more than 500 causes across the country.

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Creative Column – May 22nd

May 27, 2026

I would like to include one of my own poems this week entitled ‘Voyager in the Darkness’. I wrote it a few years ago, but I find myself coming back to it because it always seems to resonate at different points in my life. Navigating your early twenties really can feel like being a ‘voyager in the darkness’. You’re trying to figure out and make sense of a world that is constantly changing. Things that once seemed so clear become blurred, ideas that you were certain on become riddled with doubt.  

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As a songwriter, poetry is something I’ve always loved to engage in. That’s what really prompted me to start the creative corner. Poetry is one of the oldest forms of artistic human expression. It’s much older than the novel which only dates back about a thousand years. Some of our oldest most influential stories such as the Iliad or the Odyssey by Homer, were told in verse, not prose.  

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People always wonder what it is that distinguishes us from animals. Cruelty? Compassion? Intelligence?  

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I think the only thing that truly differentiates us from other animals is our ability to tell stories. They are the essence of what it means to be human. The fabric of our society is built on storytelling. We tell stories on dates, at dinner parties, during work morning teas. Life’s most significant landmarks, whether they are weddings or funerals – are celebrated and mourned through stories.  

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Poetry is one of the oldest forms of storytelling and one of the most important. It grants us permission to express things in ways that grammatical rules and conventional sentence structure may not allow.  

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Poet’s Corner

Voyager in the Darkness

The sun that timidly kissed the ambivalent glass in the afternoon,

The baby-faced moon that haunted the ripples of water in the evening,

A journey of joy, stress and laughter,

Whose beauty is burdened by a tinge of sadness,

At the knowledge it signifies the end of a grand chapter,

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Prepared yet apprehensive,

Excited yet terrified,  

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A melancholic spirit,  

The seconds that move into hours and then days,

Days that will mark the end and beginning of everything,

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A plunge into the violent abyss,

Letting nature carve its path,

The apathetic endless sea,

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Into the night,  

The land of new on the horizon,

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Photo of the Week 22nd May

May 20, 2026

This week’s winner is Shantal Cornford for the theme of comfort.

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Shantal took this photo of two baby birds sitting comfortably in their nest in a bush at Port of Airlie.

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Next week’s theme is Window View.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Amateur Photography.

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On This Day 1986 May 22nd

May 20, 2026

Brahmans Back On Track. Seniors and reserves won two hard fought matches against the Pirates. Tries from Padden, Leo, Lade, Cortibarte and Napier led to the A Grade 36-24 win while Gardel, Yasso and Danny Leo led the way in the Reserve Grade.

Proserpine League Lose Gate Money. Open access to freeloaders at the Sports Reserve led to an estimated $1000 loss and danger of losing State and Foley Shield games through failure to guarantee gate receipts.

Ladies Golf. Nola Hansen won Wednesday’s trophy from runner up Bess Simpson.

Rugby Union. Raiders led by Scotty Wardroper beat Brothers 12-0  thanks to a Neil Borellini try.

Tennis Upset. ‘A’ Grade leaders Scotfords were defeated by O’Neil Alrounders.

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Bridge. G. Cantamessa and J. Spencer won the Howell Competition.

Netball Very competitive games took place on Wednesday and Thursday nights. Good shooting from Elspeth Scotford and Mim Tielen.

Junior School Netball. Proserpine beat Burdekin, Collinsville and Bowen in the Whitsunday trials. Anita Fields and Susan Madeo were selected for Whitsunday.

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Soccer. Whitsunday Knights beat Tremorne 3-2 thanks to a winning goal from Colin Downer.

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Squash. Women’s teams are very close with Lyn Hooper’s 50 points just in front of Di Law’s 45 .

Basketball. Cougars beat Panthers 46-21 led by top scorer Rob Fraser with 20 points.

Darts. The Palace Hotel beat the RSL. Top scorer of the night was Barry Humphries.

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Bowls. A great weekend was enjoyed by many. John Daffara and Peter Sala beat Fil Dafara and Bob McClure.

Hill Climb Revival This has become a popular sport. The old climb was at Mt Marlow but Proserpine Motor Cycle Club’s new hill is on the Dittmer Road which is relatively easy for riders.

Proserpine Annual Show. Full details of entries appears.

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Rainforest Conservation. Whitsunday Branch of the Wildlife Conservation Society called on State and Federal Governments to immediately stop logging in remaining virgin rainforest areas.

Guiding Notes. Girls attended an ‘Its a knockout’  at Moranbah on Anzac Day. Leader Gayle Cook needs an assistant. Trainings at Cool Palms and Proserpine are coming up.

Heart Monitor for Hospital. Airlie Beach Rotaryannes presented Matron Dray with a $1000 cheque for a Foetal Heart Monitor.

“ Butterfly” Promotes Whitsundays. A 22 episode series “ Butterfly Island” filmed on locations like Shute Harbour, Dingo Beach and Whitsunday Paradise will promote the area worldwide.

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Champion Fire Brigades. Proserpine and Airlie Beach Fire Brigades under captains Dick Shoebridge and Derek Ward came first and second in the North Queensland Zone Championships.

Teddy Bears Picnic. 200 bears entered the picnic at the Cultural Hall to celebrate Under Eights Week with Family Day Care as hosts.

ESA Handover. Incoming officials of Alpha Phi Chapter took over at the annual dinner at Proserpine Motor Lodge.

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Local Fishermen Petition asking that the Proserpine River be closed from its mouth to trawlers was presented to Parliament by Labour deputy Tom Burns. Commercial fishermen complain that ‘bays ‘are being fished out.

Fun Run to Wanderers. A mini-marathon will go ahead next Saturday from Proserpine to Wanderers Paradise sponsored by Fausts and Wanderers. Individuals and relay teams are invited.

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Power Line Worry.The Electricity Board’s promotion of a heavy duty line through to The Beak Area to serve island resorts is criticised by WCDA who state that there will be no benefit to Coastal residents.

The Big Rodeo. Proserpine and the Whitsundays are gearing up for the hosting of the 1986 Australian Rodeo Championships this weekend at the Rodeo Complex, 20 klms North of Proserpine. Large crowds are expected for spectacular action. 600 entries have been made. The Gold Cup Open campdraft of $2000 and the Australian Championship open draft of $3000 will be the major events.

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A Telegram Boy’s Story

May 20, 2026

Jim Sheppard - Telegram Boy

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Jim Sheppard started work in the Proserpine Post Office as a telegram boy in December 1941, coincidental with the time that the Japanese entered the war. In those days, although the major means of communication was mail through post offices and telephones, telegrams were an invaluable adjunct because they allowed for quick transmission of short messages over long distances.  

Modern communication is remarkably advanced compared with an era when telegrams were a primary way to deliver both good and bad news. In 1945, telegrams peaked at 35 million in Australia. They were transmitted by means of electric signals through “landlines” i.e. telegraph wires between poles, using Morse Code; a unique system of sequenced dots and dashes. An American, Samuel Morse, invented this system and sent the first official telegram from Washington to Baltimore in May 1844 with the words, “What hath God wrought?”  

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Memories shared by Jim Sheppard …

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How to send a telegram: The sender completed a form at the post office, listing the recipient’s name and address followed by the message. In 1941, the cost was one shilling for up to 16 words, later reduced to 14, with an additional two pence charged per extra word. Members of the Services paid half the standard cost. Messages could also be dictated to the post office by telephone.

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An operator transmitted the message using a device known as a “key.” Incoming messages were received on a “sounder” which produced clicking sounds representing dots and dashes. These were interpreted and converted into words by the operator.

Competency in Morse Code was required for advancement to higher positions such as Postmaster. Operators needed to achieve a minimum speed of 25 words per minute in both sending and receiving, with little room for error. In practice, experienced operators often worked at around 30 words per minute. It was common to delay typing by a few words so that any corrections would not affect the appearance of the finished telegram.

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Urgent telegrams, charged at double the normal rate, were given priority and printed on pinkish-red forms. Special decorative forms were also used for occasions such as weddings and congratulations.

During the years 1941 to 1943 when I was delivering telegrams in Proserpine, the war was raging in both Europe and the Pacific and telegrams were used extensively. Sometimes I was met with pleasure and excitement if the message was about a homecoming or the occasional marriage proposal but sometimes there were looks of dread: this could be bad news about a loved one on active service.  

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However, when there was news of someone “killed in action "or “missing presumed dead”, the Postmaster, Jim Hilton, had the good sense to enquire into the best way to deliver this message. He tried to arrange for a Priest/ Minister, a family member or a close friend to break the sad news.  

There is some parallel between the old morse days and today’s texting in that when ‘talking’ to each other on line, telephonists would abbreviate words just as is done in texting. As a matter of fact, it was not uncommon for people with the expertise to do just that in busy times when sending actual telegrams. It was called 'cutting them up'. To say Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, we would merely send MX (Xmas) HNY.

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The last time I operated a morse key was in in 1957. I retired as a manager in Telecom (now Telstra) in 1986 after 45 years of service but, like riding a bicycle, I have never forgotten the Morse Code together with the nostalgic memories of times now long gone when I was a Telegram Boy in Proserpine.  

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Story and photo sourced from Proserpine Historical Museum archives and thanks to Jim Sheppard..

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Hitch a Ride to the Classics: CCR’s Legacy Reborn with Creedence Clearwater Survival

May 20, 2026

Photo source: Facebook

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Few bands have left a footprint on rock music as enduring as Creedence Clearwater Revival, the swamp-rock powerhouse that defined a generation with its raw, roots-driven sound. Led by the unmistakable voice and songwriting of John Fogerty, CCR delivered a string of timeless anthems that still resonate across decades, from protest-era grit to back-porch storytelling energy. Their music remains a staple of classic rock radio and live tribute stages around the world.

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That legacy comes roaring back to life with CREEDENCE CLEARWATER SURVIVAL, widely regarded as Australia’s most dynamic CCR/John Fogerty tribute experience. Over two special afternoons, the band will recreate the atmosphere and intensity of a true “live” CCR/Fogerty concert, capturing not just the notes but the spirit of the original performances. This is not a passive nostalgia act—it is a full-bodied recreation designed to transport audiences straight into the golden era of American rock.

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Fans can expect a setlist packed with defining classics, including “Green River,” “Born on the Bayou,” “Proud Mary,” “Bad Moon Rising,”, “Fortunate Son,” and “The Old Man Down the Road.” Each song is delivered with attention to detail that aims to faithfully reproduce the signature CCR sound—tight rhythms, driving guitar work, and that unmistakable Southern-tinged rock energy. Audiences consistently describe the experience as as close as it gets to witnessing CCR in their prime.

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The group are no stranger to Airlie Beach, having played here in the past.  

“We’ve got friends up here. We love it,” said bassist Jono.  

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With both shows running in the afternoon and open to the public, the event offers a relaxed yet electric atmosphere—perfect for longtime fans and new listeners alike. It’s a chance to reconnect with music that still feels urgent, powerful, and alive.

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WHAT: CREEDENCE CLEARWATER SURVIVAL, 2 Free Shows
WHEN: Saturday 30th May & Sunday 31st May, 2pm  
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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What’s On May 22nd

May 27, 2026

May 23 Proserpine Show Ball, Proserpine Showgrounds, 6pm

24 Community Volunteer Expo, Bowen Sunday Markets

26 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

29 Speed Networking, Lumos Café, 7:30-8:30am

29 WSPN BBQ, Shirtfront Solutions Parking, 6.30am

30 Welcome Whales, Airlie Beach Foreshore, 4.30pm

June 3 Social Seniors, Cannonvale, 9.30am

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, 9am16 Collinsville Open Cut Free Event18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am

23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9

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Whitsunday Multicultural Festival Set To Celebrate Culture And Community In Bowen

June 10, 2026

The Whitsunday Multicultural Festival has seen great success in previous years and its announcement is met with great anticipation. Photo source: Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper

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The 2026 Whitsunday Multicultural Festival has been officially announced to take place on Friday 12th June.

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Set to be a vibrant celebration of culture, connection and diversity, the festival will showcase the many communities that call the Whitsundays home, bringing together families, visitors and local groups for an afternoon and evening of entertainment.

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Held at the Bowen Sound Shell, the event will feature live performances, cultural displays, markets, family-friendly activities and fireworks proudly sponsored by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation. Organisers say the festival is designed to highlight the region’s rich multicultural identity while providing a welcoming space for people to share traditions, food and performance.

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Community participation is a key focus of this year’s event, with expressions of interest now open for cultural groups, stallholders, vendors, educators, workshop facilitators, musicians and dancers. Organisers are encouraging local and regional participants to get involved and help shape the program.

Applications are open via Council’s Online Engagement Portal, with submissions closing 31 May 2026: https://bit.ly/WMCF2026 (can this be made into a QR Code)

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What: Whitsunday Multicultural Festival
When: Friday 12 June 2026, 4:00pm – 8:00pm
Where: Bowen Sound Shell

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GIG GUIDE – May 22nd

May 20, 2026

Friday 22 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)

Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)

KCs: Andrew Baldino (from 8pm)

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Saturday 23 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Beatnix (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: Loui Battour (1pm – 5pm)

Grandview Hotel: Zed Charles Band (from 8pm)

KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Josiah Samuel (4pm – 7pm)

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Sunday 24 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Beatnix (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Ahri (1pm – 5pm)

Grandview Hotel: Sam McCann (1pm – 5pm)

KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm – 7pm)

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Monday 25 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

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Tuesday 26 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

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Wednesday 27 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)

Thursday 28 May

Airlie Beach: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

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Whitsunday Game Fish Club Hooks Into Queenfish and Trevally Rally

May 20, 2026

Competitors will battle it out for prizes, bragging rights and valuable All-Ports competition points during the action-packed Whitsundays fishing weekend. Photo supplied

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The Whitsunday Game Fish Club will host its annual Queenfish and Trevally Rally across the weekend of 6th and 7th June, bringing anglers together for two days of sport fishing action in the Whitsundays.

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The event begins with registration and a briefing night from 6pm on Thursday, 4th June, at the clubrooms on Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale.

Fishing will run from 6am Saturday until 3pm Sunday, with all score sheets, weighed fish and release photos due back at the club by 4pm ahead of presentations at 5pm.

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This year’s rally also includes the second leg of the Queensland Game Fishing Association All-Ports competition, which the Whitsunday club won last year.

Organisers said the weekend would feature prizes and cash giveaways across adult, junior and “Reefies” categories for anglers under 16.

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Anglers from across the region are set to hit the water for the Whitsunday Game Fish Club’s annual Queenfish and Trevally Rally on 6th and 7th June. Photo supplied

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The club also thanked sponsors Sam and Beth from Tackle World Airlie Beach for supporting the event.

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Queenfish are expected to provide plenty of excitement with their aerial acrobatics and fast runs, while Giant Trevally, or GTs, are tipped to test anglers and tackle with explosive strikes and powerful runs.

Any eligible gamefish caught or tagged and released under Game Fishing Association of Australia rules will count towards All-Ports points and prize categories.

The briefing night will also include fishing tips, tactics and advice on local Queenfish and Trevally hotspots.

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What: Queenfish and Trevally Rally

When: 6th and 7th June

Where: Whitsunday Game Fish Club, Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale

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Is Airlie Beach Queensland's Best Small Town?

May 20, 2026
Airlie Beach is back in the running for Queensland's Top Small Tourism Town and Tourism Whitsundays is asking locals to help get our favourite little town over the line one more time.

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Airlie has taken out the top spot four years running now. That’s not just luck and it’s not just because our town is just so well-loved, it’s because the community shows up every year and votes, and every year it pays off. The businesses on the main street, the families who have been here for generations, the people who moved up last year and can’t believe they waited so long. 

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Think about why you love it here. The lagoon on a Saturday afternoon. The Boardwalk at sunset. The marina full of boats heading out to the islands. The cafes, the markets, the live music, a Sunday session that turns into a Sunday evening. That’s what brings visitors back and that is what a vote helps keep front and centre.

Voting is open now and closes 24 May. Every vote counts the same, whether you are a local in Cannonvale, running a business in town, popping over from Bowen or Proserpine, or just someone who loves Airlie Beach, we’d love if you could spare two minutes of your time. 

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Appreciate it, as always.

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Cast your vote https://www.qtic.com.au/top-tourism-town-awards/2026-queensland-top-tourism-town-finalists/ before 24 May. – Designer Note: Make QR Code

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Contributed by Rosanagh Gallivan, PR & Social Media Manager, Tourism Whitsundays  

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Aussie Guitar Hero To Play Surprise Show

May 20, 2026

Elias has been described as a ‘fearless and energetic player’ by Live Concert Review. Photo supplied

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One of Australia’s finest young acoustic guitarists, Elias Bartholomeo is coming to the Whitsundays for a surprise concert on Thursday 28th May on an impromptu stopover during his 2026 Queensland tour.  

Previously, Elias has been playing solo concerts across Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and Japan, combining a blend of blues, country and jazz in his melody-driven compositions, and performing engaging arrangements of well-known songs. His live performances are known for his contagious humour and his energy, with his guitar playing described as ‘walking a tight rope between many genres all at once’. 

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This Whitsunday concert will feature support act Cameron Hanger, a talented young acoustic guitarist. Together the two musicians, both of whom have performed with their mentor, the legendary Tommy Emmanuel, will treat Whitsunday music lovers to a night of great live music.  

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The gig will take place at the iconic Buffalo Lodge Hall on Edward Street, Proserpine, with bookings available online or cash taken at the door. There is also a student concession available.

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For further information call Pam Pole on 0448870482 or check out www.eliasbartholomeo.net  

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WHAT: Elias Bartholomeo in Concert 

WHEN: Thursday 28th May, 7.30pm to 10pm. Doors open 7pm. 

WHERE: Buffalo Lodge, Edward Street, Proserpine

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Whitsunday Creatives Encouraged To Dream Bigger With New State Arts Fund

May 20, 2026

Arts organisations and creative producers across the Whitsunday Shire are being encouraged to think big, as the government launches a new funding program designed to support major homegrown productions in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

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The new Queensland Major Commissioning Fund will provide matched funding of up to $250,000 over two years to support large-scale arts experiences, productions and cultural events that showcase Queensland stories, artists and communities on a bigger stage.

The initiative forms part of the government’s 10-year arts and culture strategy, Queensland’s Time to Shine, aimed at growing arts audiences, attracting tourism and creating jobs within the creative sector.

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For regions like the Whitsundays, where tourism and events already play a major role in the local economy, the fund could open the door for ambitious new cultural projects that highlight the region’s unique identity and creative talent.

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Minister for Education and the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the fund would help position Queensland as Australia’s leading destination for arts and entertainment.

“This is where big Queensland ideas come to life,” Minister Langbroek said.

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“The Fund is about encouraging arts and cultural producers and organisations to deliver on their vision for bold new works.

“In the lead up to the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics, the Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan to transform arts experiences that will put Queensland up in lights.

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“Queensland is leading the nation in the arts and entertainment, and this fund will enable local creatives to invest in major works that will showcase our talent to the world. Through this new fund, we’re backing a thriving arts sector and creative economy growth for Queensland.”

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The fund is targeted at established arts and cultural organisations with experience delivering large-scale productions and events. Eligible projects must already be in advanced development stages and scheduled for first presentation by December 2028.

An additional $10,000 will also be available to support accessibility initiatives for artists and audiences living with disability.

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Expressions of Interest are now open and close on Monday, 20th July 2026, with shortlisted applicants to pitch their concepts to an expert panel before moving to the full application stage.

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To confirm eligibility before submitting an EOI, please contact Arts Queensland via investment@arts.qld.gov.au or by telephone (07) 3034 4016 or toll free 1800 175 531. 

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For more information, please visit https://www.arts.qld.gov.au/funding-opportunities

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Jubilee Tavern Unveils Fresh New Look With Community Celebration Weekend

May 20, 2026

The bistro menu continues to feature the pub favourites guests know and love, including hearty schnitzels, steaks and generous crowd-pleasing meals ideal for a casual night out or midweek knock-off. Photo supplied

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One of Airlie Beach’s favourite local pubs has officially entered a new era, with the Jubilee Tavern unveiling a major venue refresh designed to give locals an even better place to gather, dine and unwind.

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Following a staged renovation across the venue, the much-loved tavern has completed a significant upgrade that blends fresh modern spaces with the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere the community has always known and loved.

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To celebrate the transformation, Jubilee Tavern will host a huge “Locals Weekend” from Friday May 29th to Sunday May 31st, packed with live entertainment, giveaways, family activities and classic pub fun for all ages.

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Venue Manager Gabriela Camargo Matos said the refresh was all about enhancing the experience for the people who have supported the venue for years.

“Jubilee Tavern has always been a place for locals, and this refresh is about giving the community an even better pub experience while keeping the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere people know and love,” she said.

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Guests visiting the revamped venue will immediately notice major improvements throughout the pub. The beer garden has been revitalised with brand-new outdoor furniture and colourful softfall added to the children’s playground, creating a more family-friendly outdoor space perfect for long lunches, casual dinners and weekend catch-ups.

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Inside, the bistro and dining areas have received a fresh new look with updated furniture, new flooring and carpet, fresh paint and a brighter overall feel designed for comfort and relaxed dining.

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Sports fans are also set to benefit from the renovations, with the Sports Bar receiving upgraded AV systems including a brand-new LED big screen to showcase live sport loud and clear. Refreshed seating and furniture have helped create a more modern and comfortable sports viewing experience.

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Meanwhile, the gaming room has undergone a complete redesign, featuring a new layout, updated lighting and fresh finishes throughout.

While the venue has been modernised, the heart of Jubilee Tavern remains firmly focused on the local community. The refreshed tavern continues to cater for tradies, young families, workers and locals looking for a quality pub experience away from the busy tourist scene.

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The tavern’s expanded weekly entertainment lineup is also expected to become a major drawcard for locals. Happy Hour now runs Monday to Friday from 4pm to 6pm, alongside a packed calendar of activities including Social Darts on Tuesdays, Big Tavern Trivia on Wednesdays and Musical Bingo on Thursdays.

Fridays are all about Tradie Club and knock-off drinks, while Saturdays feature live music and free pool. Sundays remain family focused, with free kids entertainment from midday.

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The upcoming Locals Weekend celebration will showcase everything the refreshed venue has to offer, including live music, food specials, line dancing classes, giveaways and Airlie Beach’s biggest meat tray stretching more than two metres long. Families can also enjoy free face painting and a special visit from Wildlife Whitsundays.

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WHAT: Locals Weekend  

WHEN: Friday May 29th – Sunday May 31st

WHERE: Jubilee Tavern

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