Friday 8 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Saturday 9 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Rewind 80's (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: No Scrubs DJ Night(from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Cue
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Sunday 10 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Rewind 80's (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Ash Smith
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Monday 11 August
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Tuesday 12 August
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Wednesday 13 August
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Thursday 14 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

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August

4 Author Talk Session by Marion Weatherburn, Bowen Library, 10:00am - 12:00pm

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

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

7-14 Airlie Beach Race Week

8 Airlie Beach Race Week Presents: Happy Feet, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

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

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

14 Morning Melodies - For the Love of Tony, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11:00am

16-23 Hamilton Island Race Week

16 Coral Sea Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival (day one)

17 Coral Sea Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival (day two)

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

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

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

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

26 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

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

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

September

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

5 Don River Dash 300 Day 1, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

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

6 Don River Dash 300 Day 2, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Father’s Day

7 Don River Dash 300 Day 3, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

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

9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

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

11 R U OK? Day

12 & 13 White on Whitehaven

12 Whitsunday Writers Festival 12th – 14th

12 Kung Fu Panda 4, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

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

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

17 Australian Citizenship Day

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

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

23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Shrek followed by Shrek 2, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

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

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

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Fans of classic rock are in for a treat as Creedence Clearwater Survival, Australia’s premier tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival, returns to the Airlie Beach Hotel in just a few weeks.

“We play every Creedence song,” said frontman Paul Haynes, who performs under the name John Forgery.

The Melbourne-based band is known for its faithful renditions of Creedence Clearwater Revival's most beloved hits, and this performance will be no different.

“The songs will be Bad Moon Rising, Fortunate Son, Looking Out My Back Door, Cotton Fields, Green River, Jambalaya, Lodi, The Old Man Down the Road, Have You Ever Seen the Rain, Up Around the Bend, Centerfield, Sweet Hitch-Hiker, As Long as I Can See the Light, Heard It Through the Grapevine... it just goes on."

Paul embraces the role completely, from the voice to the costume.

“I dress up in the Creedence gear with the wig and the cowboy shirt. I go by the name of John Forgery instead of John Fogerty,” he said.

“I have the voice too, I don’t know why that is. I just do.”

The band was originally called The Fortunate Sons, and Paul joined as a singer before taking up guitar duties. “They said, ‘Well, can you play guitar?’ And I said, ‘Oh, can I!’ And then there was a few Fortunate Sons around, so we changed our name to Creedence Clearwater Survival, which sounded more recognisable as a band.”

Paul and the band are no strangers to the Airlie Beach stage. They visited in March and said they had an amazing time. Paul's only complaint... was the heat!

This time the band travels to the Airlie Beach Hotel in winter, and Paul is looking forward to the milder temperatures and break from the usual heat and humidity.

Paul said crowd interaction is a key part of the show. At one point, they lead the audience in a classic baseball clap before launching into the next song.

The band has been performing for over a decade and travels regularly.

“Most weekends, we play somewhere and we mainly do it because we love it.

Paul’s passion for music begun early. He said music has always been something that touched him deeply.

“Some people like cars, some people like art. I like music... it touches my soul.”

Catch Creedence Clearwater Survival live at the Airlie Beach Hotel later this month for a night of nostalgia, energy, and rock ‘n’ roll classics.

WHAT: Creedence Clearwater Survival
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 23 August & Sunday 24 August (2pm - 5.30pm)

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The Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival wrapped its activity-packed three-day program on August 3, leaving attendees with a renewed appreciation for the Whitsundays' natural wonders.

From August 1–3, Airlie Beach came alive with thousands of locals and visitors embracing a program that continues to cement the festival as a cornerstone event for the region.

Despite a cold and soggy start on Friday night, fireworks lit up the sky just moments before rain set in. But the weather couldn’t dampen spirits, with thousands gathering on the Airlie Beach Foreshore to celebrate.

A major focus of the festival is community inclusivity, with involvement from arts organisations, environmental groups, schools, and local businesses. Reef education also featured strongly, with tourism operators and Master Reef Guides sharing their knowledge.

The Immerse art installation transformed the foreshore into an underwater wonderland, featuring recycled artworks from local and visiting artists. Indigenous language and marine life stories added further depth to the display.

Saturday’s Revvin' the Reef Car Show lined the Main Street with vintage and modern vehicles, while the Rotary Street Parade brought the community out in full force, all celebrating this year’s theme, Coral Kingdom.

The Ark Energy Family Fun Day provided hands-on reef education and entertainment for families, reinforcing the importance of protecting the reef.

Festival Chair Margie Murphy said the 2025 event marked a welcome revival after a tough 2024.

“The energy from both our community and visitors was amazing,” she said. “This festival truly embodies the spirit of our region.”

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The Street Parade was an extremely popular event. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is proud to announce that the highly prestigious Shirley Treacy Awards will take centre stage in Mackay on Sunday 10 August 2025, at The Theatre at the Conservatorium of Music, providing an opportunity to celebrate and reward the region’s RAD ballet students.

Named in honour of Shirley Treacy OAM – a trailblazing Townsville-born dance educator, examiner and passionate advocate for regional dance – these Awards are among the newest on the RAD’s annual calendar. They offer young dancers an unparalleled opportunity to perform in their local community, before a live audience of family, friends, teachers and an esteemed adjudicator.

This year sees Julie-Anne Kerr, a highly experienced examiner and teacher who has seen students go onto the Prix de Lausanne, Alana Haines Awards and The Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition, travel to Mackay to adjudicate the
Awards.

This year marks an exciting new chapter for Mackay, as candidates will perform on stage for the very first time, in front of a live audience. All registered participants will take part in an open class before selected regional finalists return to perform their chosen solo variations, culminating in the announcement of Mackay’s overall Award finalists.

The overall Award finalists will contend with others from Rockhampton, Townsville and Cairns, for a range of generous prizes, as well as the extraordinary opportunity to be fast-tracked as a finalist in the prestigious 2026 Jacqueline Morland Awards — one of Australia’s most respected ballet competitions.

These Awards not only honour Shirley Treacy’s remarkable legacy but also celebrates our future generations of dancers and inspires them to share their passion with the local community.

Born in Townsville, Shirley Treacy devoted her life to nurturing young dancers and strengthening dance education across Australia. As a co-founder of the Queensland Dance School of Excellence – which has since grown into what we know as the Queensland Ballet Academy in Brisbane - a dedicated RAD examiner for over 40 years, and a Life Member and Fellow of the Royal Academy of Dance, she left an extraordinary legacy that continues to inspire.

For more information and to support these inspiring young dancers, visit www.royalacademyofdance.org/en-au/event/shirley-treacy-awards-2025/

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Queensland Symphony Orchestra Returns To Mackay For Northern Lights And Southern Stars

For the first time in over a decade, Mackay will welcome the full forces of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) for their unforgettable performance, Northern Lights & Southern Stars on Thursday 30 October 2025 at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC).

“This is the real McCoy” said Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager of MECC and Events.

“Not a chamber group, not a scaled down version, this is the full Queensland Symphony Orchestra, all 55 musicians, right here in Mackay.”

Led by conductor Sam Weller and featuring baritone Jake Lyle, QSO will enchant Mackay with a rich program including the drama of In the Hall of the Mountain King to the elegance of Ravel’s Pavane for a Dead Princess and the vibrant spirit of Chloé Charody’s My Australia.

“This is the first time in over 10 years we’ve had an orchestra of this calibre in our region, and we are thrilled to bring this level of musical excellence to our community” Mr Bobeldyk said.

Orchestral Adventures: Inspiring Mackay’s Primary And Secondary Students Through Live Music

In addition to the evening performance, local students will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the magic of live orchestral music up close with two Orchestral Adventures age-appropriate education concerts.

“This is a special opportunity for our aspiring young musicians” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“Our students in Mackay will be able to experience a world-class orchestra and learn from the best. This could be the spark that shapes a lifelong passion.”

Schools attending will also benefit from tailored learning resources to help guide students through the performance experience and enhance curriculum outcomes.

“We’re expecting tickets to fly,” Mr Bobeldyk added.

“Classical lovers, music students and first-timers alike will want to grab this rare opportunity to see a full symphony orchestra live in Mackay.”

Event Details:
• The MECC & QSO Presents Northern Lights & Southern Stars
• Thursday 3O October – 7:00pm
• The MECC & QSO Presents Orchestral Adventures
• Primary School: Thursday 30 October 10.00am – 11:00am
• Secondary School: Thursday 30 October 11:30am – 12:30pm

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For the first time in over a decade, Mackay will host the full Queensland Symphony Orchestra on October 30, 2025, featuring a captivating evening concert and special educational performances for local students. Photos supplied

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Are you ready?

Film Arts Mackay have some excellent films lined up this year, showcasing a diverse selection of cinema from around the world. Adding to the excitement, they also have a couple of exciting bonuses, Q&A sessions with the filmmakers of Road to the North and Strange Creatures.

Upcoming Films:

Friday, 1st August - BCC Mt Pleasant Cinemas
7.00pm – Holy Cow & Opening Night Event
$35pp (FAM members & Non-members) Includes wine and French- inspired finger food

Saturday, 2nd August - Bcc Mt Pleasant Cinemas
• 1.30pm Road to the North (Join Fergus Gregg after the screening to chat about the film and his experiences living in Japan.)
• 4pm Peacock (plus short film Nim and the Butterfly by Mackay born director Sarah Hope)
• 6.30pm I’m Still Here

Sunday 3rd August - BCC Mt Pleasant Cinemas
• 4pm Flow
• 6pm Strange Creatures (Join Director Henry Boffin after the screening for a Q&A)

Ticket Prices (Saturday & Sunday sessions):
FAM members / Students: $15 per person
Non-members: $20 per person
FLOW (Children aged 5-12): $10 per person

Multi-Pass Ticket:
Access all six films screening at BCC Mt Pleasant from 1 to 3 August
FAM members / Students: $95
Non-members: $120

How to Book:
Tickets are available online at www.trybooking.com/DBTRR or in person at the Film & Arts Mackay table at the cinema, starting 30 minutes before each film. Please note tickets cannot be purchased at the cinema box office. FAM members must present their membership card upon purchase.

The festival is proudly supported by Screen Queensland, Mackay Regional Council, and the Mackay Festival of Arts. Film Arts Mackay looks forward to welcoming audiences to another unforgettable Mackay International Film Festival.

For the full program, ticket bookings, and the latest updates, visit www.filmartsmackay.weebly.com.

Please Note: All screenings start promptly at the advertised times with no adverts or trailers. Audience members are encouraged to arrive at least five minutes early. If you plan to purchase food from the cinema, please allow extra time to avoid missing the start.

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Film & Arts Mackay is rolling out a world of cinema this August, with six powerful films, Q&As with acclaimed filmmakers, and a vibrant opening night—book now for the Mackay International Film Festival! Images supplied

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A Creative Workshop For Beginners

If you’ve ever wanted to write but weren’t sure where to begin, this free storytelling workshop is for you. The Essentials of Storytelling workshop will be held at the Dudley Denny Library on Saturday, 16 August, and is designed for anyone aged 15 and up who wants to explore the fundamentals of creative writing in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

This interactive two-hour session – presented by publishing consultant 852 Press director Dr Julia Evans and accomplished author of ten crime thrillers, Richard Evans – is perfect for those with little or no writing experience who are eager to discover what makes a story compelling, memorable, and meaningful.

The workshop will introduce the essential elements of storytelling—from structure and character to conflict, setting, and voice. Whether you’re interested in writing fiction, memoir, or family history, this session will help you unlock your ideas and bring them to life on the page.

Through short, practical exercises and guided discussion, participants will:
· Discover the classic three-act structure and how to use it
· Create vivid characters and dynamic settings
· Explore conflict, tension, and resolution
· Experiment with narrative voice and point of view
· No experience is necessary – just bring a notebook, pen, or your preferred writing device, and a curiosity to explore your own stories.

Event Details

What: Start Writing: A Creative Workshop for Beginners
When: 9:30am-11:30am Saturday 16 August 2025
Where: Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay
Admission: FREE. Open to ages 15+. Limited to 40 participants.
What to bring: Pen and notebook or your preferred writing device

Spots are limited, so book early with the Mackay Regional Council Libraries and take the first step toward discovering your voice as a writer.

This two-hour interactive session with publishing expert Dr Julia Evans and crime author Richard Evans is ideal for beginners keen to learn what makes a story truly stand out. Photo supplied

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Friday 1st August

Friday Flow
5pm
The River of Life Festival returns to the Mackay Waterfront from August 1, bringing a vibrant evening of connection and creativity every second Friday from 5pm to 8.30pm. Visitors can enjoy live music, interactive workshops, lawn games, botanical drinks from Elixir Garden Bar, and free children's art. Warm soup or dahl will also be available for purchase.
Bluewater Quay

Daryl McKenzie Kicks Off CQUniversity Schools Jazz Festival
6pm
Australian jazz icon Daryl McKenzie will perform live at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music from 6 to 7:30pm, launching the CQUniversity Schools Jazz Festival. Known for his work as Musical Director of Hey Hey It’s Saturday and collaborations with Ray Charles and Michael Bublé, McKenzie brings his signature style to Mackay for one unforgettable night. Don’t miss this rare chance to see a jazz master live. Tickets are available at cqcm.sales.ticketsearch.com.
Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music

LIVE Music
6-9pm
Enjoy LIVE music every Friday at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Art On Show
6.30pm
The Mackay Art Society is hosting an art show from 1–4 August, showcasing a vibrant collection of works by local artists. Visitors can explore a diverse range of styles and mediums throughout the exhibition.
500 Pavillion

Film & Arts Mackay Opening Night Sceening – Holy Cow
6.30pm
Film & Arts Mackay invites film lovers to the Opening Night of the Mackay International Film Festival on August 1, featuring the award-winning French drama Holy Cow. The evening includes French-inspired cuisine and refreshments. Tickets are $35 via TryBooking. Doors open 6:30pm for a 7pm start.
BCC Cinemas.

Saturday 2nd August

61st Annual Sarina Show and Rodeo 2025
From 6am, Saturday and Sunday
The Sarina Show & Rodeo returns on August 2–3, 2025, marking its 61st year with two jam-packed days of community celebration, classic show attractions, and heart-pounding rodeo action. Gates open from 6am daily, with stud cattle, poultry, fine arts, and ring events filling the showgrounds. Saturday night features live music, fireworks, and a full rodeo lineup. Discounted family passes must be pre-purchased online or from the Show Society Office. Don’t miss this regional favourite!
Sarina Showgrounds

MACK POPCON
9am
MACK POPCON 2025 is officially locked in and promises to be bigger, bolder, and geekier than ever! Save the date and prepare for epic fandom fun, creative costumes, and pop culture mayhem.
Mackay Showgrounds

Sarina Soundwaves
1.30pm
An afternoon of soulful tunes is set to delight Sarina, with Golden Guitar winner Brad Butcher, touring duo JC and the Tree, blues legend Matt Tandy, and the renowned David Flower as MC. Held in the heart of town, this live music event promises talent, storytelling, and a warm community vibe. Tickets available via trybooking.com
Sarina Cultural Hall

Majesty – A Sacred Concert Of Timeless Beauty
3pm, Saturday and Sunday
This moving performance features the Mackay Choral Society alongside the Mackay Children’s Chorus, directed by Musical Director Nicole Thomson, with Professor Judith Brown AM accompanying on piano and organ. As part of the 80th anniversary celebration series themed Present, Past and Future, Majesty honors the "Past" through its rich tradition of sacred choral music.
St Paul’s Uniting Church, Mackay

Tunes in the Dunes
3pm
Tunes in the Dunes is back on Saturday, August 2! Set against stunning ocean views at Dunes Harbour Beach, enjoy a free afternoon of live music with Zoey Mills & Leyon Milner from 3–6pm. BYO picnic and book tickets via Humanitix to secure your spot.
Dunes Harbour Beach, Sol Drive

A Night in the Canefields
4pm
Get ready for a fiery night under the stars at the Oh Deere Cane Field Burn on Saturday, August 24. Enter via Mackenzie Road off the Bruce Highway and arrive before gates close at 4:30pm. Bring a chair, torch, and something warm. Enjoy live music by Luke Miller, a real cane fire, bar and food stalls, sweet treats, face painting, John Deere merch, and kids' activities. Tickets $45 per car – limited spots. No ticket, no entry.
Oh Deere Farm Stay

Bliss n Eso at McGuires
7pm
Bliss n Eso are coming to McGuires Mackay on Saturday, bringing their legendary high-energy hip-hop show to the region. Loved by fans nationwide for over two decades, this iconic Australian crew promises an unforgettable night full of powerful beats and dynamic performances. Don’t miss the chance to see these crowd favourites live—joined by Melbourne’s Ivan Ooze, the Party on the Moon Tour is set to light up Mackay like never before! Tickets available via. oztix.com
McGuires Hotel Mackay

Sunday 3rd August

The BMA CQ Rescue Fun Run
6am
The BMA CQ Rescue Fun Run returns on Sunday, 3 August 2025, at Iluka Park—offering 5km and 10km distances for walkers, joggers, and runners alike. This community-driven event raises vital funds for BMA CQ Rescue, ensuring the life-saving helicopter service can continue to serve the region. Whether you're aiming for a personal best or a fun day out, every step helps keep this essential service in the sky.
Iluka Park

Race Village Market
9am
A brand-new celebration is docking at Mackay Marina Village as part of the GCCM Gold Coast Mackay Yacht Race! On race day, yachts will arrive throughout the day, with a mega market stretching from Sails Bar to the roadside, live entertainment, kids’ activities, raffles, and more. Celebrate 140 years of the Pine Islet Lighthouse with birthday cake, meet the crews, and enjoy a full day of waterfront fun and festivities.
Mackay Marina Village

Dance Fit With Elena
9am
Dance Fit with Elena is held every Sunday at 9:00am. This outdoor class encourages participants to move, laugh, and connect through joyful dance, no experience required. In case of rain, sessions relocate to CQU’s undercover sports area on Sydney Street. Entry is $5, supported by Mackay Regional Council. Just bring water, sun protection, and a smile.
Bluewater Quay, River Street, Mackay (next to Forgan Bridge)

Mackay IFF 2025 – FLOW
4pm
Winner of the Academy Award and Golden Globe for Best Animated Feature, FLOW is a visually stunning, dialogue-free adventure following a solitary cat who joins an unlikely crew of animals after a devastating flood. As they navigate a transformed, water-covered world, their survival depends on trust, courage, and cooperation. With breathtaking animation and a moving message about friendship, community, and the fragility of our planet, FLOW is a cinematic experience for all ages by Film & Arts Mackay. Tickets available via trybooking.com
BCC Mount Pleasant Cinemas

Monday 4th August

Northside Circle – Mackay Mums Circle Meet Up
9am
Northside Circle will meet this Monday at 9:00am. It’s the first gathering at this vibrant new space, which features playgrounds, picnic areas, an open lawn, and a crocodile-shaped amphitheatre—perfect for families to relax while the kids play. Bring snacks, bring a friend, and help shape what could become a regular meet-up for the community.
Northern Beaches Community Hub, (located opposite Northern Beaches High School)

Homelessness Week 2025
10am
Join CASA at the front of their office to launch a week of events aimed at raising awareness and providing support for those experiencing homelessness. Enjoy a free BBQ breakfast while connecting with friendly staff to learn about the services available and how they can help you take the next step from crisis to stability. Everyone is welcome—come along and find out how CASA can support you.
4/54 Gregory Street, Mackay

Thursday 7th August

World Breastfeeding Week – Mackay Group Chat and Play
9am
Join the community in celebrating World Breastfeeding Week with the theme ‘Prioritise Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems.’ This informal gathering offers a welcoming space for families at any stage of their breastfeeding journey, including those who are mixed or formula feeding. While parents connect and share experiences, children can enjoy playtime at the nearby Harbour Playground, featuring the Snoopy and big crocodile structures. Everyone is invited to come together to support and strengthen breastfeeding for generations to come.
Mulherin Park, Mackay Harbour

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As part of this weekend’s Great Barrier Reef Festival celebrations, music lovers are in for a special treat with The Whispering Jack Show – A Tribute to John Farnham – taking the stage at The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel, on Saturday, August 2, from 2pm to 5.30pm.

Proudly presented as a festival highlight, the live tribute adds a powerful musical punch to an already action-packed weekend. As the show unfolds, festival-goers can also enjoy the spectacle of the vibrant street parade, which will pass right by the venue mid-performance, bringing the buzz of the parade and the power of Farnham’s music together in one unforgettable afternoon.

Held annually in August, the Great Barrier Reef Festival is Airlie Beach’s signature event, celebrating reef culture and tropical living. The four-day program includes everything from dazzling fireworks and reef-themed art to an eco-conscious Recyclable Regatta and plenty of family fun, all while shining a light on the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and the local lifestyle that thrives around it.

Saturday’s performance by The Whispering Jack Show is set to be a standout moment. Hailed as Australia’s premier Farnham tribute, the high-energy production has been touring nationally for nearly two decades, captivating crowds in theatres, clubs, festivals, and aboard cruise ships.

Backed by a dynamic seven-piece band, the show delivers pitch-perfect renditions of Farnham’s biggest hits, from stirring ballads like A Touch of Paradise to anthems such as You’re the Voice, Pressure Down, and Age of Reason. Adding depth to the performance, The Book of John segment weaves storytelling into the setlist, offering insight into Farnham’s life and the legacy behind his music.

Performer Mike Vee’s uncanny vocal resemblance to Farnham has drawn praise from fans and industry insiders alike. Dannii Minogue even called his voice “the closest I’ve heard to John,” after his appearance on Australia’s Got Talent.

Whether you're a lifelong Farnham fan or simply soaking up the festival atmosphere, this is one live show you won’t want to miss. Locals and visitors alike are encouraged to arrive early, grab a spot, and enjoy an afternoon of classic Aussie rock as the spirit of the reef meets the voice of a generation.

WHAT: The Whispering Jack Show – A Tribute to John Farnham
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, August 2 | 2pm – 5.30pm

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Young performers from a non-for-profit, grassroots music group, Amped Up, will take the stage this Saturday at the Great Barrier Reef Festival, performing from 2.30pm to 4.45pm on the Main Street Stage, just before the street parade.

Formed from the merger of Whitsundays Got Talent and the Music Evolution Project, Amped Up is a not-for-profit, community-driven initiative for young people aged 5 to 21.

“Amped Up is a grassroots, community-driven programme dedicated to empowering young people through the power of music and performance,” said organiser Barb Hill.

“It’s not a competition, it’s about having fun.”

Saturday’s performance will feature solo acts Willow, Dillon Poppi, Amaya and Meg. Followed by four youth bands, The Krusaderz, Sugar N Spice, and Aftershock.

Willow will be opening and will be performing their very own original song.

Popular local band Category Five, long-time participants in the youth music scene, will also perform Friday night on the festival’s main stage at 6pm.

“We’re doing this because we want to give these kids the opportunity to shine on stage,” Barb said.

“If people can actually support them, that would be magic.”

The program also has big plans for the future, with hopes of expanding into sound and event production.

Find Amped Up on social media for updates and future events, and don’t miss the group and solo performers from Amped Up at the Great Barrier Reef Festival this Saturday.

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Families, mark your calendars, the Ark Energy Family Fun Day is back and bigger than ever as part of this year’s Great Barrier Reef Festival!

Set against the stunning backdrop of Airlie Beach Foreshore, this free community event will take place from 10am to 2pm on Sunday, 3 August, offering a packed program of activities for children of all ages, as well as a chance for parents to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

From doughnut-eating competitions and crazy races to circus skills, live entertainment, and a crowd-pleasing treasure hunt, there’s no shortage of action. Face painting, reef-themed crafts, and interactive educational stalls will keep curious minds engaged throughout the day.

A strong focus on reef and cultural education will be woven throughout the event, with Eco Barge Clean Seas, Daydream Island’s Living Reef, Cruise Whitsundays, and Coral Sea Marina Resort among the many organisations bringing the reef to life for young festivalgoers.

The exciting and fun Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta kicks off the day at 8.30am. At the beach opposite the Airlie Beach Hotel, watch as everyone hits the water in their homemade recyclable water crafts.

Parents can enjoy food trucks and live music from midday at the Foreshore Pop-Up Bar, while the kids continue to burn off energy.

And don’t miss ‘Immerse’, the enchanting sculpture trail lighting up the fig trees with marine creatures made from recycled materials.

It’s a day of discovery, fun, and community spirit, and best of all, it’s completely free.

What: Family Fun Day
When: 3rd August 2025, 10am to 2pm
Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore

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Get ready, Whitsundays, Caravãna Sun is bringing their electric energy to the Great Barrier Reef Festival!
Known for their high-octane live performances and infectious blend of indie rock, reggae, surf-rock, and dance, this powerhouse Australian band promises a show to remember. With groove-heavy tracks, soulful sing-alongs, and moments that truly connect with the crowd, Caravãna Sun is a festival favourite for good reason.
Drawing inspiration from their coastal roots, their music pulses with sunny vibes and irresistible rhythms; their live shows are where the magic truly happens. Expect big sound, enormous energy, and even bigger crowd connection.
Hear from drummer James Smithers in a behind-the-scenes video as he dives into the band’s creative process and what makes their performances so electric.
Don’t miss your chance to see one of Australia’s most exciting live acts in action, right here in Airlie Beach.
Watch Caravãna at the Beats on the Beach on the Foreshore stage on Saturday 2 August at 9pm. Tickets are available at greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au

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The Airlie Beach Foreshore is set to sparkle and roar with colour on Friday, 1 August 2025, as the Great Barrier Reef Festival presents its much-loved Fireworks on the Foreshore event. From early evening until late, the vibrant atmosphere will draw locals and visitors alike for a night packed with entertainment, culture, and spectacular sights against the stunning backdrop of the Coral Sea.
Sponsored by the Whitsunday Regional Council, the evening kicks off with the colourful Lantern Parade winding its way from Coral Sea Marina to the foreshore, lighting up the boardwalk with creativity and community spirit. Following a traditional Welcome to Country, live music will take centre stage with performances from local favourites Category 5, the energetic family trio ObiSun, Mystic Aura Fire Show, and vibrant DJs to keep the crowd moving.
As dusk falls, the stunning Immerse Art Installation will glow to life, showcasing reef-inspired sculptures crafted from recycled marine debris — a visual tribute to the Great Barrier Reef’s beauty and fragility.
Festivalgoers can explore night markets brimming with local arts and crafts, feast on delicious street food at Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street and enjoy carnival rides, including a Ferris Wheel for all ages. Families can relax with a free outdoor screening of the animated film LUCA.
The night’s highlight comes at 8:30pm when the sky above Coral Sea explodes with a dazzling fireworks display, lighting up the coast in a breathtaking celebration.
Entry to the foreshore entertainment is free, while a small fee applies for the licensed bar area with front-row fireworks views. Book online to secure your spot.
Cap off the night at the official Reef Festival After Party at Boom Nightclub featuring Tigerlily , starting from 10pm, for more live music and dancing.

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival is set to light up Airlie Beach this August, with the much-loved Night Market and outdoor movie night returning to the foreshore on Friday, 1st August 2025, promising an evening full of colour, culture and community.
This free, family-friendly event, proudly supported by the Whitsunday Regional Council, will transform the Airlie Beach foreshore into a bustling hub of activity from late afternoon into the night. Locals and visitors alike can look forward to a vibrant Night Market filled with delicious food vendors, unique handmade goods, and local artisan stalls, the perfect place to grab a bite or pick up a special keepsake.
As the sun sets, families can gather under the stars for a magical outdoor screening of Disney and Pixar’s heart-warming film “Luca,” bringing a touch of the Italian Riviera to the tropical Whitsundays. Guests are encouraged to bring along picnic blankets and settle in for an unforgettable cinema experience by the sea.
Adding to the festive atmosphere will be cultural performances that celebrate the spirit and diversity of the region, followed by a dazzling fireworks display over the Coral Sea, lighting up the night sky in true festival fashion.
And for those after a bit of thrill, the carnival rides are sure to be a hit with kids and teens, offering fun and excitement all evening long.
The Friday foreshore festivities are just one part of the broader Great Barrier Reef Festival, which showcases the unique connection between the Whitsundays community and our World Heritage-listed reef. With events running across the weekend, the festival highlights the region’s marine wonders, local talent, and unmistakable tropical charm.
Don’t miss out on this spectacular night of family fun, live entertainment, and seaside magic, all set against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.
For more details and the full festival program, visit: www.greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au

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