A surge in premium boat sales over the past six months has placed the Whitsundays firmly in the spotlight, with World Wide Boat Brokers (WWBB) experiencing an increased demand from prominent buyers seeking a world-class sailing destination.

With its crystal-clear waters, sheltered anchorages, and over 70 islands to explore, the region has become the go-to destination for serious sailors and boating enthusiasts alike.

Riding this wave of momentum, WWBB is kicking off 2026 with Airlie Beach Open Boats, a unique open day designed to give holidaymakers and locals the opportunity to step onboard multiple vessels and experience the yachting lifestyle firsthand.

Running from 8am to 12pm, the morning is structured as a relaxed open for inspection, similar to an open home but for boats.

The event will showcase six pre-owned vessels, spanning both power and sail, from leading brands, Beneteau and Riviera.

All boats will be conveniently berthed in one location at Port of Airlie Marina, allowing for easy viewing throughout the morning.

Daniel Howcroft, broker and former captain with 20 years’ experience navigating these waters, will be on deck to answer questions and encourages visitors to explore at their own pace and get a taste of life on the water at no pressure or cost.

“This event gives people a chance to jump onboard a range of world-class boats and learn from a team of experts about anything and everything boating in the region,” says Dan.

For those interested in entering the boating world through shared ownership, visitors can also discover an exciting new opportunity in the Whitsundays: a 1/5 syndicate share of the high-performance sailing catamaran, Excess Catamarans.

This exclusive option allows buyers to enjoy a share of one of the world’s most talked-about performance yachts without committing to full ownership or costs.

It’s a rare chance to be among the first syndicate owners in Queensland of a new Excess, experiencing its speed and performance in one of the world’s most spectacular cruising grounds.

“The Whitsundays is a truly unparalleled sailing destination, and there’s some really exciting opportunities we are able to offer to those wanting to experience this alluring lifestyle.”

“With turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and sheltered coves around every island, it’s the perfect playground for yachts of all sizes.

WWBB credits its recent success to a unique approach to selling boats, with a strong emphasis on digital marketing and premium service.

By combining expert industry knowledge with engaging imagery and drone footage, the team connects buyers and sellers on a global scale while showcasing the lifestyle and experiences that come with yacht ownership.

The Airlie Beach Open Boat Day reflects this approach, giving people the chance to view a range of brands and models, and experience firsthand the region’s growing boating lifestyle.

Whether you’re a seasoned sailor, a first-time boat buyer, or simply curious about the yachting lifestyle, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

Event Details:
• When: Saturday, 24th January, 8am–12pm (Australia Day long weekend)
• Where: World Wide Boat Brokers, Ground Floor Boathouse Apartments, Port of Airlie Marina, QLD
• Featuring: 6 boats open for inspection

•  Beneteau Sense 50 ( Sail)

•  Beneteau 48 Oceanis ( Sail)

•  Beneteau Monte Carlo 4s ( Power)

•  Beneteau Flyer 9 ( Power)

•  Riviera 47 Flybridge ( Power)

•  Riviera 48 Offshore Express ( Power)


• Special Opportunity: 1/5 ownership syndicate in a new performance sailing catamaran, Excess Catamarans

For more info and to RSVP head to www.worldwideboatbrokers.com.au/airlie-beach-open-day/or contact Dan on 0451 846 620.

Contributed with thanks to World Wide Boat Brokers.

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With most Queensland schools returning on 27th January, many kids may be upset at just how fast the holiday season has gone by. Not to fear! There are still some incredibly exciting activities on in the region for all to enjoy before the back to school rush hits.

Six The Music Live! Sensory Session - Proserpine Entertainment Centre, Saturday 24th January
The Proserpine Entertainment Centre will be screening the iconic Six The Musical. With the original West End Queens hitting the big screen, showing the mesmerising recording of the original West End cast's reunion, as they performed to a sold out audience at Vaudeville theatre.

Australia Day Family Fun - Queens Beach Hotel, Monday 26th January
The Queens Beach Hotel in Bowen is hosting a series of great family fun activities. These include face painting, fairy floss, live entertainment and a water slide. Free entry is included, so get on down to Bowen for some family fun.

Natural Wonders
The region has some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. Whether its checking out the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island, waterfalls, walking tracks and national parks - there is no short of family fun that can be had from traversing the regions beautiful natural areas.

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With the first day back at school on the horizon, students are encouraged to see what's on at the PEC! Photo source: Shutterstock

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Friday 23 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm-10pm)

Grandview Hotel: Simon Briley (from 8pm)

Saturday 24 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Chisel/Oils (2pm-7:30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (6:30pm - 9:30pm)

Grandview Hotel: The Filthy Animals (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: Bear Brewer (1pm - 5pm)

Sunday 25 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Chisel/Oils (2pm-7:30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (6:30pm - 9:30pm)

Grandview Hotel: Michael Vaughan (4pm - 8pm)

Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ (1pm - 5pm)

KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)

Monday 26 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aus Day feat. Swanee, Alan Barnes (2pm-5:30pm)

KCs: Mick Woodbridge (12pm, 8pm)

Tuesday 27 January
KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Wednesday 28 January
KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Thursday 29 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6:30pm - 9:30pm)

KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

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January

24 North Queensland Cowboys V Mackay Cutters, Whitsunday Sports Park, 6:30am - 8:30am

24 & 25 Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Swanee and Alan Barnes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

24 The Corsairs Name Day featuring YUSSI, Boatys Airlie Beach, from 9pm

25 Blessing of the Fleet, North Queensland Cruising Yacht Club Bowen, 11:30am onwards

26 Aussie Day at the Club, Club Whitsunday, 11am - 2pm

26 Australia Day at the Grand View, Grand View Hotel, 11am - 8pm

26 Australia Day Fun Family Day, Queens Beach Hotel, from 12pm

26 Australia Day at the Met, Hotel Metropole Proserpine, from 12pm

26 Australia Day and Citizenship Ceremony at Bowen PCYC

26 The Wizards of OZ Australia Day, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm - 6pm

31 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

February
1 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

7 Galentine's Day, Queens Beach Hotel, 12pm - 4pm

7 Bustamento Intrepid Adventure Tour, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

8 One Love - The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am

14 & 15 Whole Lotta Rosie, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

March
1 The Best of Bon Jovi & Foreigner, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

7 Proserpine Lions & Lion Ladies International Womens Day, Proserpine RSL, 1pm-5pm

7 & 8 Late for Woodstock, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

14 & 15 U2 Rattle & Hum plus Coldplay Show, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

17 Joe Camilleri & the Black Sorrows, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:30pm - 9pm

17 St Patricks Day Party, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

21 & 22 Katie Jayne LIVE, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

22 The UK Rod Stewart Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

27 FOGS Regional Tours Bowen Gala Dinner, Queens Beach Hotel, 6pm - 9pm

27 Sydney Drag Queen presents WICKED Drag Bingo, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7pm - 10pm

April
11 & 12 SOS ABBA Tribute, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

16 Morning Melodies - The Beggars sing the Seekers, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11am - 12:30pm

22 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:30pm - 9:30pm

25 Australian Rock ANZAC DAY, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm - 6pm

25 PBR Bull Pit Bull Bash, 145 Midge Point Road, Bloomsbury, from 4pm

May
1 SPOT, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm - 12.50pm

13 Luke Kidgell - Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9pm

16 & 17 Whitsunday Equestrian Group T-Shirt Competition, Cannonvalley Pony Club, 8am - 4pm

31 Creedence Clearwater Collective, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

June
11 Morning Melodies - Live at Frankie's, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11am - 12:30pm

14 Music of the Night - Australia's permier tribute to Andrew Lloyd Webber, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 2pm - 4:30pm

26 Echoes of Pink Floyd - 60 Years of Pink Floyd, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 8pm - 10.45pm

July
4 Kids Fishing Day, Lake Proserpine Holiday Park, 9am - 12pm

23 Fire and Rain: The James Taylor Songbook, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11am - 12:30pm

25 - 26 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

August
7 Room on the Broom, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 1pm - 1.55pm

9 A Taste of Ireland, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 4pm - 6pm

September
11 - 12 White on Whitsunday Long Lunch, Whitehaven Beach, from 8am

24 Morning Melodies - What's New Pussycat? - Featuring Melissa Langton & Mark Jones, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11am - 12:45pm

October
1 Viking Cup 10s, Whitsunday Sportspark, 12pm - 7pm

December
3 Morning Melodies - The Best of Buble Christmas Experience, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11am - 12:30pm

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Opening this Saturday, January 24, at Artspace Mackay is an immersive exhibition from one of Australia’s most influential and leading glass artists, Tom Moore.

‘Natural Oddity’ will showcase sophisticated and technically challenging glass hybrid characters which blur the lines between animal, plant and machine.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it’s an honour to have this exhibition in the region.

“We are thrilled and it’s a great privilege to have acclaimed artist Tom Moore and his ‘Natural Oddity’ exhibition in Mackay,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Tom’s work is a contemporary take on the ancient craft of glass blowing and has been showcased in many of Australia’s major state galleries,” he said.

Artspace Director Tracey Heathwood said the exhibition features video collaborations with Jonathan Nix and Nigel Koop, and photography by Grant Hancock.

“What sets this exhibition apart is these complex glass characters are combined with other media to bring the gallery to life – it explores the universe these creatures inhabit,” Ms Heathwood said.

“The exhibition is enlivened with dreamscape scenes, animations and soundscapes, creating an immersive experience full of whimsy to delight people of all ages,” she said.

Ms Heathwood said there will be a drawing competition, and a workshop with the artist.

“There’s interactive programs and a design competition across three age groups for the chance to have your creature brought to life in glass by Tom – a rare opportunity to see your imaginative creation transformed into reality!”

Arist Tom Moore said he’s very excited to see competition entries from all ages.

“Natural Oddity presents playful and sometimes unsettling reflections on nature and technology,” Mr Moore said.

“I’ve been drawing and creating funny characters most of my life – I am very excited to see other people’s weird and wonderful drawings and challenge myself for what I can create,” he said.

This exhibition will run alongside two others which will be open this week in Artspace’s Foundation and Foyer galleries:

   Habitat by Colleen Heathwood James will be showcased in the Foundation Gallery. These works speak of the artist’s deep connection to the natural environments of Eungella and the Pioneer Valley, concerns about climate change and importance of protecting habitat.

   Coastal Imprints by local printmaking group Printbank Mackay, in the Foyer Gallery, honours two decades of innovation, creative exploration and collaboration in Mackay’s art community. This group exhibition showcases two- dimensional and sculptural work of twelve members who have challenged the possibilities of their medium to produce vibrant interpretations of life on Mackay’s scenic coastline.

All three exhibitions remain on display until Sunday, 2nd April, 2026.

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Glass works by Tom Moore. Photo credit: Grant Hancock

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Friday, January 23

Exhibitions Opening Night
6pm
Mackay Regional Council and Artspace Mackay invite the community to celebrate the launch of three new exhibitions, officially opened by Mayor Greg Williamson. Featuring Tom Moore: Natural Oddity, Printbank Mackay: Coastal Imprints and Colleen Heathwood James: Habitat, the evening offers a first look at the exhibitions and the chance to connect with artists, curators and gallery staff. This free event begins at 6pm. Tickets available via Eventbrite.com
Artspace Mackay

Saturday, January 24

Book of the Month – January
10am
Discover the latest featured artist’s book at Artspace Mackay during the free Book of the Month program on Saturday 24 January, from 10am to 10:30am. This popular monthly event gives visitors the chance to explore the book up-close, page by page, with guidance from Artspace volunteers. Open to all ages and abilities, it’s an informal and inspiring way to engage with works from the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection. Free tickets available via Eventbrite.com
Artspace Mackay

Free Hip Hop Session
10.15am
Kids can get moving these school holidays with a free Hip Hop session on Saturday 24 January, 10:15–10:45am. Perfect for Prep-aged children and up, the high-energy class lets little ones bop, bounce, dance and groove. Bookings are essential, and the fun continues afterwards with free face painting, making it a great outing for the whole family.
Shop 10 & 11, 45 Evans Avenue, North Mackay

Sunday, January 25

Mackay Country & Western Club Family Afternoon
1.30pm
The Mackay Country & Western Club invites the community to a family-friendly afternoon of live music on Sunday 25 January at the Senior Citizens Hall on Macalister Street, Mackay. Kicking off at 1.30pm, the event welcomes new artists, with a backing band available for those keen to perform. Admission is $5 and everyone is welcome. For more information, phone Charlie on 0408 776 564 and enjoy a great afternoon of country and western music.
Senior Citizens Hall on Macalister Street, Mackay

Thursday, January 29

Social & Craft Day
9.30am-11.30am
QCWA Mackay Branch is holding its first Social & Craft Day for 2026. Entry is $2, which includes morning tea. Bring along your craft projects or simply come for a chat and enjoy the company of others. Small craft activities are sometimes available, but participation isn’t required. Social & Craft Days are held every fortnight, welcoming everyone looking for a friendly morning out.
QCWA Mackay Branch Hall, 43 Gordon Street,

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A Seamless Wedding Experience With Starcut Flowers

Every love story deserves to be told beautifully, and for more than four decades, Starcut Flowers has been doing exactly that, bringing romance to life for couples across Mackay and the surrounding regions.

From engagements and intimate elopements to lavish wedding celebrations, the journey to “I do” can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. With decades of experience in the wedding industry, the team at Starcut Flowers understands how to navigate every detail with calm precision, creative confidence, and genuine care.

Selecting florals is one part of the puzzle, but entrusting a team who can seamlessly bring your vision to life is what truly elevates the day. Starcut Flowers offers couples reassurance, with decades of experience, and a refined one-stop-shop approach, allowing the bride and groom to relax and savour the moments that matter most.

Each bouquet, ceremony installation, and reception detail is thoughtfully tailored to reflect the unique story of the couple at its heart. No two weddings are ever the same, and neither are their designs – whether soft and romantic, modern and minimalist, or lush and abundant.

Couples are guided from the initial consultation through to the very end with warmth and professionalism. Beyond florals, Starcut Flowers also provides styling, hire décor, and furniture, ensuring every element works together in perfect harmony.

With a strong connection to locally grown blooms and an abounding passion for the wedding industry, Starcut Flowers doesn’t simply decorate weddings. They create atmosphere, emotion, and unforgettable moments, destined to bloom!

www.starcutflowers.com.au

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It’s not every day Mackay motorists expect to share the road with a horse, but last week, locals were treated to a sight straight out of a country comedy.

A Palomino horse was spotted on the loose, wearing a coat and making a stylish dash through the Gooseponds and surrounding streets.

One local motorist stepped into the role of unlikely hero, later taking to a community page to explain the unusual driving behaviour witnessed by many commuters.

“Apologies to everyone I just cut off, stopped in front of and drove radically around the Gooseponds and surrounding streets… I was helping some poor lady find her run away horse. We can confirm Makybe diva has been found!"

The post quickly trotted its way through local feeds, delivering laughs alongside reassurance that the well-travelled horse had been safely found.

For those who witnessed a coat-clad horse, a determined woman in riding boots, or some questionable early-morning manoeuvres, Mackay can rest easy knowing it was all in the name of a good cause, and a very memorable morning!

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Photo source: Triple M Mackay & The Whitsundays

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From Around The World To The Big Screen

Film & Arts Mackay is proud to have assisted one of our local filmmakers in their quest to get their story to a wider audience.

Former Mackay local Fergus Gregg’s ROAD TO THE NORTH was screened as part of our Mackay International Film Festival program in 2025 and is now available for free on SBS On Demand. This fascinating documentary journeys through northern Japan, retracing the historic paths of poet Matsuo Basho, master of Haiku, as Gregg marches alongside locals in a vibrant celebration of heritage, culture and community. Catch it free on SBS on Demand: Watch Road to the North | Stream free on SBS On Demand.

Film & Arts Mackay kicks off 2026 with a diverse and thought-provoking program designed to entertain, challenge and connect audiences.

Opening with the hilarious Irish comedy FOUR MOTHERS on 6th February, Film & Arts Mackay is inviting members and film lovers back to Friday nights at the Cook Theatre at CQU in Ooralea for another year of world-class cinema and community connection.

The first three films of the year are:

• Friday, 6th February – FOUR MOTHERS - A novelist on the cusp of success must juggle an imminent book tour and caring for his own mother when he’s unexpectedly saddled with four eccentric, elderly women over one chaotic weekend. Hilarious, relatable and poignant.
• Friday, 6th March – THE STORY OF SOULEYMANE - An undocumented Guinean newcomer navigates life as a Paris food courier while preparing for his asylum interview in a Cannes-winning drama that humanely captures resilience, hope, and survival. Gripping, profound and compassionate. (SCREENING FOLLOWS THE AGM)
• Friday, 10th April – THE PRESIDENT’S CAKE - Set in 1990s Iraq, this Caméra d’Or–winning debut follows a nine-year-old girl and her grandmother on an adventurous, gently comic quest to bake a compulsory birthday cake, capturing everyday life under Saddam Hussein through a child’s hopeful eyes. Compelling, charming and entertaining.

For more information about membership and prices, please visit our website: Film & Arts Mackay or contact us at filmartsmackay@outlook.com.

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Images supplied

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Friday 16th January

Crochet and Conversation
9am
Drop in for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee, and conversation with the friendly Northern Beaches community at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own crochet tools or borrow from the communal box. Open to everyone—crafters, beginners, or anyone who enjoys coffee and connection. Enjoy working on individual or community projects while soaking up the beauty of the Esplanade. No RSVP needed—just come along and support the cafe.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade

Friday Flow
5pm
The River of Life Festival Association invites the community to a fun, interactive music experience for all ages. Hosted by Jen and Karen from Rhythm Business alongside Margy and Jamesley, first-timers can explore rhythm and find their voice. Families can enjoy free children’s activities including arts and crafts and an air track gymnastic mat, while food and drinks are available for purchase. Everyone is welcome to come along, join in the fun, and celebrate music and creativity together.
Bluewater Quay

Saturday 17th January

Girls & Women - Swans Come and Try
9.30am
Girls and women of all ages are invited to the Swans’ Come & Try AFL Day. Whether it’s your first kick or a return to footy, enjoy a fun, relaxed session with skill stations, games, prizes, and support from Swans players and coaches. A free sausage sizzle, drink, and raffle ticket are included on entry. Come solo or bring friends and family for a morning of strong women, good vibes, and great footy at Rogers Oval, East Mackay, Saturday 17th, 9:30–11am.
Rogers Oval, East Mackay

Come & Try Table Tennis
9.30am
The community is invited to a free Come & Try Table Tennis day, perfect for beating the heat in a fully air-conditioned hall. Open to kids, adults, families, and first-timers, the day encourages everyone to turn up, have a hit, and enjoy the fun—no experience required. The event includes free entry, a sausage sizzle, and the chance to take on Bouncer the Robot. Held Saturday 17 January 2026 from 9:30am to 2:30pm at 76 Bridge Road, South Mackay.
76 Bridge Road, South Mackay

Sunday 18th January

Free Choccie Milk Run 5km or 10km
5.15am
Early risers are invited to the free Choccie Milk Run with a twist, a fun and inclusive 5km or 10km handicap event open to all abilities. Participants can arrive from 5.15am for a 5.30am start, with first-timers starting on scratch. A relaxed, free run or walk option is also available from 5.30am on the course. Choose one lap for 5km or two laps for 10km and enjoy a social, welcoming start to the day.
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club

Wednesday 21st January

Printbank Exhibition Artists’ Talk
5.30pm
Artspace Mackay invites the community to a free artist talk with members of Printbank Mackay, exploring their printmaking practice, collaborative journey, and new exhibition Coastal Imprints. Celebrating 20 years of creative innovation, the exhibition features vibrant two-dimensional and sculptural works inspired by Mackay’s coastline. The session runs from 5:30–6:30pm on Wednesday 21 January 2026 at Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct, Gordon Street. Bookings are required for this free event.
Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct, Gordon Street

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Big Laughs Head to the Whitsundays as Comedy Festival Roadshow Rolls Into Town

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is set to bring a night of laughter to the Whitsundays when it hits the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Wednesday, the 22nd of April.

Showcasing a carefully curated line-up of comedy heavyweights and rising stars from Australia and around the world, the Roadshow delivers a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud experience packed into one side-splitting show. Audiences can expect a mix of sharp wit, bold storytelling and crowd-favourite performances that capture the spirit of the renowned Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

For almost 30 years, the Festival has toured nationally, bringing its signature humour to communities far and wide, and now local audiences will have the chance to experience the country’s largest comedy festival right in their own backyard.

The performance runs from 7.30pm to 9.30pm and is recommended for audiences aged 15 years and over. Attendees are advised the show may contain coarse language, adult themes and sexual references, with smoke or haze effects also used during the performance.

Accessible seating and Companion Card bookings can be arranged by contacting the Box Office on (07) 4945 0405.

Comedy fans are encouraged to gather their friends and secure tickets early for what promises to be a standout night of entertainment in Proserpine.

What: Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow
When: Wednesday, the 22nd of April
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

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Friday 16 January

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

KCs: Michael Hayes (from 8pm)

Grandview Hotel: Simon Briley (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Kaeden McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)

Saturday 17 January

Airlie Beach Hotel: Lisa Hunt (2pm-5:30pm)

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

KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ (1pm - 5pm)

Sunday 18 January

Airlie Beach Hotel: Lisa Hunt (2pm-5:30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6:30pm - 9:30pm)

KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)

Grandview Hotel: Ronny Crocker (4pm-8pm)

Sorrento: Simon Briley (4pm-7pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: Pluto Tango (1pm - 5pm)

Monday 19 January

KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Tuesday 20 January

KCs: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Wednesday 21 January

KCs: Chris Boorof (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Thursday 22 January

Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6:30pm - 9:30pm)

KCs: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)

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January
17 & 18 Lisa Hunt - Forever Soul, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

22 Six the Musical Live, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 2pm - 3:45pm

24 North Queensland Cowboys V Mackay Cutters, Whitsunday Sports Park, 6:30am - 8:30am

24 & 25 Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Swanee and Alan Barnes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

24 The Corsairs Name Day featuring YUSSI, Boatys Airlie Beach, from 9pm

26 Aussie Day at the Club, Club Whitsunday, 11am - 2pm

26 Australia Day at the Grand View, Grand View Hotel, 11am - 8pm

26 Australia Day Fun Family Day, Queens Beach Hotel, from 12pm

26 Australia Day at the Met, Hotel Metropole Proserpine, from 12pm

26 Australia Day and Citizenship Ceremony at Bowen PCYC

26 The Wizards of OZ Australia Day, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm - 6pm

31 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

February
1 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

7 Galentine's Day, Queens Beach Hotel, 12pm - 4pm

7 Bustamento Intrepid Adventure Tour, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

8 One Love - The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am

14 & 15 Whole Lotta Rosie, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

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A celebration of Australian rock royalty is set to take over Airlie Beach, with two huge afternoons of live music featuring some of the country’s most loved anthems and familiar names.

Gold Chisel plus Power & The Passion – The Australian Midnight Oil Tribute Show will headline a massive weekend of entertainment, joined by special guests John Swan, better known as Swanee, and Alan Barnes.

Leading the charge is Gold Chisel, who will deliver a high-energy tribute to Cold Chisel with a setlist packed full of classics including Khe Sanh, When the War Is Over, Cheap Wine, Flame Trees, You Got Nothing I Want and Choir Girl, along with plenty more fan favourites. Gold Chisel are highly acclaimed and both Alan Barnes and Swanee, brothers of Cold Chisel frontman Jimmy Barnes have nothing but praise for the tribute band. Alan even knows Gold Chisel lead singer Andy well.

Sharing the stage will be Power & The Passion – The Australian Midnight Oil Tribute Show, bringing the unmistakable sound and political punch of Midnight Oil to life. Audiences can expect to hear iconic tracks such as Power and the Passion, US Forces, Dreamworld, King of the Mountain, Forgotten Years, Beds Are Burning and Blue Sky Mine.

Adding a unique family connection to the weekend, Swanee and Alan Barnes will also take to the stage to perform a mix of original material and classic hits. They will also join Gold Chisel during their set, teaming up on stage for a few crowd-pleasing songs.

Swanee will also be performing some hits from his newest album 'Believe'. On this album is the track titled 'Brother of Mine', a moving song featuring Swanee, Alan Barnes, and Jimmy Barnes. The brother-trio pour their heart and emotion into the song. It may be played at the event, you will have to be there to find out.

With two free shows scheduled, the event promises a relaxed, high-impact celebration of Australian rock across two afternoons.

The performances will take place on Saturday, the 24th of January, and Sunday, the 25th of January, from 2pm to 5.30pm, offering music lovers the chance to soak up some of the best Australian rock ever written in a live setting.

That's not all! On Australia Day the bands plus Swanee and Alan Barnes hit the stage again in a full day celebration, from midday to six.

WHAT: Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Special Guests Swanee and Alan Barnes
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, the 24th of April & Sunday the 25th of April (2pm - 5.30pm) Plus Special Event Australia Day – Monday January 26 12pm – 6pm

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Friday 9th January

Crochet and Conversation
9am
Locals are invited to drop in for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation with a friendly group of Northern Beaches residents at Beachfront Bar and Restaurant on the Bucasia Esplanade. Everyone is welcome, from experienced crafters to complete beginners, or those simply keen to enjoy a coffee and a chat. Bring your own crochet tools or borrow from the communal box, then settle in, spot the yarn and join the table.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia Esplanade

Saturday 10th January

Weekly Falun Gong (Chi Gong) Exercise and Meditation
9am
Falun Dafa (Falun Gong) exercise sessions offer a gentle, accessible way to support a healthy body and peaceful mind. The practice features five easy-to-learn exercises and is suitable for people of all ages. Sessions are always free of charge and no bookings are required. Published teachings are available to guide practitioners, with books translated into 45 languages. Those with questions are welcome to send a message via Facebook.

Monday 12th January

Seniors Mat Yoga
9am
Seniors Matwork and Standing Yoga welcomes those aged 55+ to improve flexibility, balance, strength and relaxation. Led by experienced physiotherapy and yoga specialist Cait, classes run 9.30–10.30am (meet & greet at 9am Week 1) with tea, coffee and light refreshments afterwards—a perfect opportunity to connect with others. Cost is $10 per session. Those interested in attending are encouraged to join in, with registration online via Humanitix, by email at nbcweek@gmail.com, or by calling 0417 275 321
Northern Beaches Community Hall

Tuesday 13th January

Street Science Spectacular
1pm
The Street Science Spectacular hits Centre Court outside Myer from 13–22 January 2026, offering high-energy science shows and hands-on drop-in workshops for the whole family. Daily sessions are free and no bookings are required, making it easy for locals to join in the fun. Perfect for curious minds of all ages, this interactive event promises experiments, excitement, and learning in a lively, family-friendly environment—don’t miss the chance to explore science in action these school holidays!
Caneland Centre Centre Court, (outside Myer)

Thursday 15th January

Mackay Harbour Mums Circle
9am
join Harbour Circle mornings at Mackay Harbour, near Riley’s BBQ, 67 E Point Drive. Enjoy a relaxed beachside morning with your little ones, grab a coffee, and connect with other local mums while the children play. There’s no sign-in or schedule—just a welcoming, friendly space to chat, share experiences, and enjoy community connection. Perfect for anyone looking to meet other new mums and make the most of mornings by the water.
Near Riley’s BBQ, 67 E Point Dr, Mackay Harbour

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