Located on the beautiful Bogie River, situated between Bowen and Collinsville is Normanby Road Nature Bush Camp, a vibrant country venue which is set to host an event for all ages this Saturday 3 August.

Country Hoedown is a cash only special event for all to enjoy, with affordable prices, games, activities, live music, dancing, food and BYO alcohol.

Games will entertain young ones for hours and include tug-o-war, sack races, Jenga and other campsite games.

Normanby Road Nature Bush Camp has created a true country vibe, with hay bales, market stalls and a warm bonfire for the chilly winter nights.

Animals are allowed on leash, and generators are permitted as per set times to ensure the serenity of the property is maintained. 

The event is also a fundraiser which will be raising funds for Melanoma research through the local Buck Off Melanoma charitable organisation.

Country Hoedown is a one-day event and admission is just $2. If staying on after 6pm until late a day pass is $10. Normanby Road Nature Bush Camp encourage campers to stay overnight for $10 per person/per night and under 16’s are free.

This is the first time the event has taken place and camp owners and event organisers Paul and Tori Druery are excited to welcome everyone to the party.

“We are really excited to hold our first event, which will have a fun country vibe,” said Paul and Tori Druery.

“We've worked hard to create something from nothing, catering for young and old alike.

“We hope this event will be the first of many, showcasing Whitsunday talent while supporting our local community.”

WHAT: Country Hoedown
WHERE: 148 Normanby Road, Bogie
WHEN: Saturday 3 August, 2pm – Late

Normanby Rd Nature Bush Camp, Photo supplied

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Get ready for an unforgettable Friday night in Airlie Beach as it transforms into a dazzling spectacle of fireworks and live entertainment, courtesy of Sebel Whitsundays! The Great Barrier Reef Festival kicks off with a bang, inviting you, your family, and your friends to experience an electrifying opening night like no other.
At 8:30pm the fireworks will light up the shores casting a mesmerising glow over the Coral Sea – so bring a blanket and get cozy on the beach while the magic begins and watch the kids revel in the excitement of thrilling carnival rides.
If you aren't one for rides, lose yourself in the vibrant atmosphere with an incredible line-up of live music on the main stage that will have you dancing the night away – for a full run down of the sensational artists playing on the night see page 23.
Music is free for everyone. For front row views to the fireworks, the Taste for Treason Party at the Bali Hut Whitsunday Sailing Club will be where it’s at. Tickets are $85 and include a margarita, canapes and entertainment.

Entertainment will be spread along the foreshore with the ever-popular night markets and the Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street providing a delightful culinary experience.
If you're feeling a bit worn out from all the excitement, take a break and enjoy a screening of Finding Nemo on the big screen. Plus, keep an eye out for surprise pop-up performances that are sure to entertain and delight you!

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The Immerse Art Installations are lighting up the Great Barrier Reef Festival again this year.
Scattered across the Airlie Beach foreshore and centered beneath the iconic fig tree, the streets of Airlie will come alive with stories from the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. While the installations are visible by day, the real magic happens at night with pieces illuminated from 6-9 pm.
Beginning in 2021 as a modest segment of the festival, this event has grown significantly and now stands as a major highlight that locals eagerly anticipate each year.
The installation focuses on showcasing sculptured reef creatures and corals crafted from recycled plastic and marine debris. This project also features collaboration with indigenous storytellers from Yooribaya Cultural Experiences, who will also be presenting a traditional welcome, smoking ceremony, and dance as part of the festival's opening ceremony, on Friday at 6:30pm at the Foreshore Stage in Fairy Tree Park.
You’ll be able to explore the exceptional immersive art pieces using a map on the festival website and onsite signage. This map not only guides you through the sea creature-themed installations but also integrates educational elements and the Indigenous names of the marine life.

Animated projections put together by Donna Maire Robinson, from the Immerse Artist Group Lantern Creations, will also be present at this year's event. The signature animation will be visible on the wall of the nearby Heart Hotel.
The immersive art installations are brought to life by facilitator Margaret Burgess, alongside artists Anita Pender, Brigitte Peel, Liz Knight and Noemi Martinez, with creative direction by Margie Murphy.

After exploring all the dazzling light displays at Immerse Art Installations, dive into the excitement of Reef Trivia, hosted by the Coral Sea Academy. This special opening event for the festival will take place at the Coral Sea Marina Resort (South End) and will be an educational evening filled with marine trivia, combined with unbelievable footage and photos of wildlife and their unique behaviours.

Don’t just dip your toes in—immerse yourself in the festival fun!
Immerse – Stories from the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef” is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland

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Immersed Art Installations ready to dazzle

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On Friday night, watch as hand-crafted lanterns illuminate the town with a vibrant sea of color. Enjoy the sight of children's faces glowing with delight as they pass by.
The ever-popular event, is a festival highlight and festival organiser Margie Murphy, emphasised that the Coral Sea Marina Lantern Parade is “one of the signature events.”
The Parade departs from the The Garden Bar Bistro at Coral Sea Marina, bringing colour and light along the Bicentennial Boardwalk, past Sorrento’s Restaurant and Bar and along the foreshore at Fairy Tree Park Main Stage where the Welcome to Country and Traditional dance will commence.
This year, the festival has introduced an all-new exciting element for the Lantern Parade, elevating the event to new heights.
Titled “Light Up the Reef,” this year’s hand-printed lanterns are inspired by the vibrant and colorful life of the Great Barrier Reef. Participants are encouraged to bring along their lanterns and showcase them in the parade.
Once the parade arrives, the reef-themed printed lanterns which have been carefully made by hand, will form an entry to the Airlie Beach foreshore. The art installation and community lanterns will work side by side to create an ethereal space for festival attendees to explore and enjoy.
Prizes will be available for best Lanterns on the night in both the adult and kids' category for the most colourful and the most creative.
There are no registrations for this event, just come along to the meeting spot, and hold your lanterns proudly as the beautiful colours of our Great Barrier Reef emerge.

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Beautiful lanterns at last years’ parade. Photo credit: Tropix Photography

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While the live music is free, you can also book an exclusive VIP area at Point Bar and receive a free cocktail and nibbles with an ocean view.

In addition to its spectacular opening, the Great Barrier Reef Festival features an incredible lineup of live music and entertainment. After watching the dazzling fireworks Friday evening be sure to head on down to the mainstage to see live performances from the amazing internationally known Conrad Sewell, international DJ Charly Templar and local rock bands Gleezus and Category 5! Music and entertainment are free for everyone.
FRIDAY – Beach Vibes
Gleezus
Starting off Friday evening is Gleezus. This locally adored youth band from Bowen has been steadily making a name for themselves, weaving their distinctive sound and vibrant presence into the fabric of Whitsundays' music scene.
Gleezes provide a high-paced, crowd engaging performance that is sure to please audience members, young and old.
With epic original content and a great mix of covers from the rock, grunge and metal genres.
What: Gleezus
Where: Main Stage
When: Friday 2nd August, from 6:30pm
Charly Templar
Get ready to spin some records with International DJ Charly Templar.
Charly Templar is a pioneering open format DJ known for his eclectic mix of crowd-pleasing rhythms. His innovative style seamlessly blends diverse genres, ensuring a dynamic and unforgettable experience for every audience.
With gigs in more than 25 countries, and years of international club experience, combined with his exceptional craft and showmanship, Charly Templar guarantees a highly unique and eclectic set.
Charly Templar will also be hosting a kids DJ workshop on Sunday 4th.
What: Charly Templar
Where: Main Stage
When: Friday 2nd August, from 7:30pm
Conrad Sewell
Get ready to relax into the evening with Conrad Sewell, known for his rich, soulful vocals and poignant songwriting that have earned him international acclaim.
Bursting onto the scene with his chart-topping single "Start Again," Conrad won the ARIA Award for Song of the Year in 2015, establishing himself as a significant force in the music industry.
Conrad continues to release sensational songs, including his latest single, “All Life Long”.
What: Conrad Sewell
Where: Main Stage
When: Friday 2nd August, from 8:45pm

SATURDAY – Beats on the Beach
Saturday night live music kicks off straight after the Rotary Club Street Parade, with Airlie Events Beats on the Beach.
The entertainment will keep you dancing through the night with four top live music acts taking to the foreshore stage. The pop-up bar will be open for beachside bevvies from 6pm and there will be an array of delicious offerings available from Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street
Matty Rogers Band
Beats on the Beach will showcase the widely acclaimed Matty Rogers, who, along with his full band, will deliver an electrifying Americana blues-rock performance infused with soulful vibes on the main stage.
The Matty Rogers Band is celebrated for their tight-knit chemistry, captivating songs, and energetic stage presence. Just one song into their set, and you’ll understand why this talented group has been a sought-after act for some of Australia’s biggest festival stages.
Perry Street Park
Also headlining, will be pop rockers Perry Street Park hailing from the thriving Brisbane music scene.
Having cultivated a sound ready to define the next era of Aussie Rock the four-piece band was Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2022 Passport to Airlie winners and are fresh from touring the East coast including Bluesfest 2024.
This special performance is part of their farewell tour so will unfortunately be one of the last times to catch the guys live.
The Diesel Gypsies
Fresh vibrant Whitsunday newcomers, The Diesel Gypsies, will be Saturday nights supporting act. The band have already made waves with their driving blend of rock and blues and healing lyrics.
Zed Charles
Blues rocker Zed Charles will also be a supporting act. The night will include tantalising fire performers.
What: Beats on the Beach
Where: Main Stage
When: Saturday 3rd August, from 6-10pm
SUNDAY
The Jam-packed weekend will conclude with Matty Rogers solo performance, supported by some local artists to help you wind down into the late afternoon.
What: Beats on the Beach
Where: Main Stage
When: Sunday 4th August, from 2-5pm

Charly Templar

Gleezus

Matty Rogers

Perry Street Park

The Diesel Gypsies

Zed Charles

The traffic of Airlie Beach Main Street will come to a halt on Saturday, for an action-packed day of colourful community events that will take over the town.
Starting with the sound of engines, the Revvin the Reef car show will dazzle spectators, with Hot Rods, Muscle and Classic Cars. Car enthusiasts from all over the region are ready to show off their unique vehicles.
Attendees will channel their inner retro enthusiasts, dressing in their finest 50s and 60s attire while enjoying classic tunes from the era.
The day will feature an array of other exciting activities, including roving street performers, engaging street demonstrations, and lively music. Don't miss bluesman Zed Charles, and some emerging youth performers, including Category 5 Duo.
At 3pm, the Wilmar Sugar Wearable Arts Parade will take to the streets, offering a vibrant display of creativity and sustainability. This unique event will feature an array of fashion pieces crafted from recyclable and renewable materials, highlighting the intersection of art and environmental responsibility.
Following shortly after athletes, local runners and anyone brave enough will be warming up for the Coral Coast Fire Magic Mile, as the streets of Airlie are transformed into a racetrack. Be an onlooker and cheer on the runners as they race past you, or why not register and participate yourself?
The afternoon will conclude with the iconic Rotary Club Street Parade, a lively and vibrant finale to the afternoon, where you can watch as creative floats pass you by.
Feeling peckish after all that captivating entertainment? Head on down to the Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street where you can enjoy a hot bed of food vans ready to sell you a range of delicious dishes and beverages.
After having a bite to eat at the Foreshore Bar, walk around the immersive art installation before gearing yourself up for Saturday night’s Beats on the Beach, where you can listen to exceptional live entertainment brought to you by Airlie Events.
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What: Saturday Street Fun
When: Airlie Beach Main Street
Where: Saturday, August 3rd – all day!

Airlie Beach main street festivities all day this Saturday

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Long before the Great Barrier Reef Festival was established, the iconic Rotary Club Street Parade had already become a vital part of Whitsunday culture and is now a key element of the festival.
There will be fun for all the family showcasing the creativity of the region’s best businesses, schools, community groups and dancers.
The parade’s theme this year is ‘Above and Below,’ which is open to interpretation by institutions, but aligns with the festival’s reef theme.
Organiser of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, Margie Murphy stated that she is really looking forward to seeing everyone’s creations this year:
“We are really excited about the amount of business registrations coming through, and can’t wait to see what they will produce.”
Around 25 entries have been recieved so far this year, but organisers expect the event to be even bigger and better than previous years.
The parade allows both children and adults to enjoy dressing in vibrant, homemade ocean-themed outfits.
Alongside the bright and fabulous outfits, there will also be numerous luminous displays, singing and, of course, lots of lollies.
Judging this year's fantastic event is Mayor Ry Collins, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, and Councillor Jan Clifford.
Festival attendees are invited to line the streets whilst waving to the floats as they pass by, and enjoy the spectacular atmosphere, while keeping a safe distance from the vehicles.
This year's festival has three winning categories, each with a prize and bragging rights up for grabs: best business, best not-for-profit and Most Creative and Wacky.
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What: Rotary Street Parade
When: Saturday, August 3 from 5-6pm
Where: Main Street, Airlie Beach

The GBRF is a non-for-profit community event run by volunteers?

The whole community will get involved tomorrow in the Rotary Street Parade

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition returns in 2024, now hosted at the scenic Whitsunday Sailing Club, offering a stunning setting for the featured artworks.
Under the theme, "Whitsunday Wonders: Above and Below the Surface," artists are encouraged to explore both the land and sea of the region. Capture the stunning landscapes, skies, and coastal beauty above, or dive into the intricate marine world, highlighting the symbiotic wonders and delicate relationships that characterise the Great Barrier Reef.
All selected artworks will be on display for individuals to enjoy in Whitsunday Sailing Club from August 1 to August 5, with brilliant prizes up for grabs!

What: Creative Connections Art Exhibition
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When: EXHIBITION OPENING HOURS:
Thursday 1 August - 6pm to 8pm Opening Night
Friday, 2 August to Monday, 5 August - 9 am to 4pm
Tuesday, 6 August 9:30 am - Announcement of raffle and People's Choice

Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club

Art Show takes center stage

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Get ready, get set, and go head down to the Ark Energy Family Fun Day, one of the Great Barrier Reef festival’s well-loved events.
This jam-packed day filled with free, crazy, fun and exciting demonstrations, games, competitions and entertainment galore on Airlie Beach’s beautiful foreshore with activities and fantastic prizes up for grabs.
Donut miss the delicious donut-eating competition that kicks off the day's festive fun! Once your tummies are settled, get ready for thrilling races, exciting circus workshops, captivating juggling shows, and an interactive treasure hunt, with the treasure hunt winner being crowned at 2pm.
If that's not enough to fill your boots, International DJ Charly Templar will be hosting DJ workshops for kids, while Nick Wynne Jones will be producing some fabulous face painting.
With a focus on interactive reef education, the Eco Barge sculpture tent and various other stalls will be manned by various conservation, government and science groups. Daydream Island will be present showing the corals and information from their Living Reef and coral restoration program. Also, the Ngaro and Giya Traditional Owners will be running interactive workshops where the kids can participate in storytelling, weaving, ochre painting and having a ‘go’ at throwing a boomerang or spear among others.
Alongside all this extraordinary entertainment Ark Energy and a selection of Whitsunday local tour operators including Cruise Whitsunday’s and Ocean Rafting will be on hand to help the kids have fun learning about the reef system ending in the famous treasure hunt, with some amazing prizes.
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What: Family Fun Day
When: Sunday, August 4 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore

Enjoy some Family fun on Sun. Photo credit: Tropix Photography

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Calling all athletes, wannabe athletes and fun runners to the Coral Coast Fire Magic Mile.
This year’s event is once again hosted by the Whitsunday Running Club adding another element of fun to an already exciting day.
The event encourages anyone to participate, and the main aim of the day is to have fun!
The mile run, originating in England as a gambling distance, has persisted despite track and field's shift to metric measurements in the 1900s. It gained prominence with the quest for the four-minute mile in the 1950s and remains the only imperial distance for which the IAAF keeps an official world record. The current world record holders are Morocco's Hicham El Guerrouj and Russia's Svetlana Masterkova.
Come get stuck into some running and history with the Magic Mile Run!
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What: Magic Mile Race
When: Saturday, 3 August from 4-5pm
Where: Main Street, Airlie Beach

On your marks!

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Ahoy! All aboard for sustainability. Hoist your sails, grab your ores and get ready for the Recyclable Regatta. Set to be a day of environmental fun, full of competition and creativity.
The Recyclable Regatta is one of the festival’s favourite events that brings the community together.
The rafts, which are created by recyclable materials, including bottles, plastic pipes, crates and more are prepared ahead of the event.
While rafts must be made of recyclables, any type of oar or paddle can be used during the event. Previous years have seen some great entries and 2024 is shaping up to be a great competition.  
Starting at 10 a.m. on Sunday, teams will race from Airlie Beach around a buoy and back to the finish line on the foreshore, creating an exhilarating display for spectators.
Organiser, Beth Sutherland, says she is most looking forward to seeing the kid's excitement on the day:
“Seeing the kids showing off their creations and getting the boats across the finish line still in one piece is no easy task, that's the most exciting bit for sure.”
All crew members in the raft must cross the line to complete the race.
This year, there has been an increase to 4 divisions: Children aged 6-12 and 13-17, Adults 18+, and local businesses.
May yer anchor be ever tight!

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What: Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta
Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore
When: Sunday, 4 August 9:30-11:00am
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Sustainable pirates take to the seas!

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Friday 2nd August

Public Art Walk Tour
4.30pm
Hosted by Artspace Mackay Public Art Officer, Jennifer Dalton-Smith, this free city art walk for all ages begins at Artspace Mackay and takes you through the city centre. Bring friends, family members, or come by yourself - wear a hat, comfortable shoes, bring a bottle of water, and arrive promptly to Artspace Mackay as the group will depart on time. This is an all-ages FREE event, but requires booking to secure a spot.
Artspace Mackay, 61 Gordon St, Mackay 

Art Party Afternoons
3pm
Bring your own project!
Do you have an existing arts project that you are looking to finish? Are you looking to meet up socially with other artists in an accessible environment? Art Party Afternoons recognises all of our unfinished projects (crochet, painting, craft, zine, artist book, comic, scribbles…whatever you are working on!). This event is FREE and is a self-led event. Bring your own project and share a cup of tea and a chat!
Crossroad Arts, 55 Wood St, Mackay 

MangroveWatch Launch
From 6pm-9pm
This evening will be a fantastic opportunity for the community to gather and hear from one of the mangrove experts, Jock Mackenzie. Jock will discuss the current state of mangroves and saltmarshes in the Mackay region and explore what actions we can take to support these vital ecosystems. Visit earthwatch.org.au for more information of upcoming events.
Mackay Surf Life Saving Club

Century Cricket
6pm
Get Ready for Century Cricket at the Great Barrier Reef Arena! This will be an unforgettable weekend of top-level cricket as they host the Century Cricket competition, showcasing some of the best players from across Australia including our home team, the Great Barrier Reef Rays! Entry is FREE!
Great Barrier Reef Arena, Mackay

La Chimera Opening Night Event
7pm
Get ready for the La Chimera & Opening Night Event - An enchanting romantic adventure, an ethereal spiritual journey and a ripping heist movie like no other. Saturday and Sunday will see films from France, the UK, Japan, Jordan and Mexico. FAM members & Non-members: $35pp. Includes wine and Italian-inspired finger food. Tickets available at trybooking.com
Birch Carroll & Coyle Mt Pleasant Cinemas

Saturday 3rd August  

Sarina Annual Show & Rodeo
6am
Sarina Show is back in 2024! With all the fun of the show, the exhibitors, the competitions, the food and the amusement rides along with a action packed Rodeo on the Saturday Night and Junior Rodeo on the Sunday.
Sarina Showgrounds

Come & Try Social Paddle
8.30am
COME & TRY / SOCIAL PADDLE. Save the date - 3rd August, 8.30am Eimeo Beach. Come and have some fun in the sun and try our awesome sport
Eimeo Beach Club, Esplanade, Bucasia

The Wellness Wave Mackay
9am
Join in for an informative day with passionate speakers and therapist Chelsey Jean and Mark Porter fresh back from their tour of America. Refreshments and Food will be available at the club house. There will be products for sale and some free give aways. Tickets available via Eventbrite. Cost: $22.49
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club

Screening Of ‘A Great Friend’
2pm
Vincent is a hyperactive and successful businessman and founder of the largest European dating site. Set against the stunning vistas of the Auvergne-Rhône Alps, this charming odd-couple comedy reveals that, despite fiery arguments and suppressed emotions, their friendship can thrive through differences. Tickets available via trybooking.com. Visit Film Arts Mackay online for more upcoming productions.
BCC Cinemas, Mt Pleasant

The Rhythms Of Life – Mackay Choral Society
2pm
Life is full of ups and downs, so come and enjoy songs that will leave you feeling on top of the world! There will be something for everyone, as you hear a mixture of music that will have you tapping your feet and singing along. There's a little swing, some classics from movies and musicals and a few pieces that may be new to your ears, but will ring true to your heart. Adult $35, Concession $30, Children $20. Book at trybooking.com or call 0422 264 397. On Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th form 2pm!
CQCM Theatre, 151 Boundary Road, Ooralea

Mackay Twilight Market
4pm-8.30pm
Visit the Mackay Twilight Market for a night of family fun, with a variety of market stalls, there's something for everyone. Enjoy live music, kids’ activities, and delicious food on Eat Street. Come along to the Mackay Showgrounds, for an outing that can't be beat! Entry Fee: $2 for Adults, FREE for Kids 17 and under.
Mackay Showgrounds

Harpertastic Event – Jeans For Genes
7.30am
JEANS FOR GENES. For the 3rd year running, Join the Harpertastic 1km Travelling Burpees. In teams of 3-5, you’ll jump up, jump down and a big jump forward for 1km to help raise awareness and funds for the Jeans for Genes Foundation, alongside many other local gyms down on the Civic Lawn, in front of the main Council building. Entry Fee: $20.50. The Jeans for Genes Foundation supports research into children’s genetic disorders and cancers. Race Starts at 7.30am. Tickets available via trybooking.com
Civic Lawn Mackay, 73 Gordon Street

Sunday 4th August  

High Tea Fundraiser
1pm
Supporting the Trudy Crowley Foundation 2024 - Funds raised at this year’s event will be donated to Trudy Crowley Foundation. Soroptimist International Mackay alternate the beneficiary to support the identified needs of the community. $65 per person.
Ocean International Hotel

LIVE Music
11.30am
Get ready for an electrifying afternoon with the Wave Raiders, followed by the Radio Clones at the Seabreeze! This dynamic trio of young punk rock prodigies will blow you away with their incredible energy and talent. Don't miss the opportunity to catch them live for FREE!
Seabreeze Hotel

TINA The Ultimate Tribute
7pm
Get the electrifying concert experience of Tina Turner with this full stage production brimming with Tina hits from the 60s, 70s, 80s & 90s. Featuring the powerful, raspy vocals and thrilling stage presence of Caroline Borole live on stage, complete with band, brass section, backing vocalists and dancers to make this the definitive tribute, and a fabulous fun night out!
The MECC

Monday 5th August

Make A Difference Monday – Homeless Week 2024
10am 
Join CASA on Monday, August 5th, 10am - 12pm, for an "All About CASA" information day at the Blue Water Quay, to help "Make a Difference". The event will be set up on the grassed area, near the Fishbones and will be providing a free sausage sizzle! So come by, have a conversation, have something to eat, and learn how CASA can support you and your families.
Blue Water Quay

Tuesday 6th August  

Talk With Us, Tuesday!
10am
Join CASA on Tuesday, August 6th, from 10am to 12pm, in front of the CASA office to mingle with guests from Chances, Orange Sky, St. Vincent DePaul's, The Men's Hostel, and the Neighbourhood Centre! The friendly team will be serving delicious hot soup to warm everyone’s bellies. So come on down, enjoy some food and engage in conversations with other organisations in our community that can offer assistance during tough times.
4/54 Gregory Street, Mackay

Wednesday 7th August  

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

Lunchbox Talks – Free Artist’s Talk With Dias Prabu
3pm
Join contemporary Indonesian artist Dias Prabu for a free artist's talk at Artspace Mackay as he discusses his exhibition 'Relentlines - Through the Windows of the Past'. Dias Prabu is an artist, painter, muralist, and creator of batik tulis (hand-drawn batik) living and working in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Reserve a spot for FREE, via Eventbrite.com
Artspace Mackay, 61 Gordon St

Thursday 8th August  

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

LIVE Music
7pm
Beddy Rays are coming to The Seabreeze! Mark your calendars and get ready for an epic night with Beddy Rays on the 8th August! With music described as "rollicking coastal punk rock," you're in for a treat! Don't miss your chance to see them live, you won't regret it!
Seabreeze Hotel

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Don't miss the Opening Night Gala screening of La Chimera, followed by Italian themed refreshments at 7:00pm, this Friday night at Birch Carroll & Coyle Mt Pleasant Cinemas!

Picture this… an enchanting romantic adventure, an ethereal spiritual journey and a ripping heist movie like no other, this captivating new fable of lost love follows a young British archaeologist who gets caught up in an international network dealing in stolen Italian artefacts.

Saturday and Sunday will see films from France, the UK, Japan, Jordan and Mexico.

Buckle up for unforgettable adventure without leaving Mackay!

Upcoming Productions:

FRIDAY, 2ND AUGUST
7.00pm - La Chimera & Opening Night Event
FAM members & Non-members: $35pp
Includes wine and Italian-inspired finger food
SATURDAY, 3RD AUGUST
2.00pm - A Great Friend
4.00pm - The Old Oak
6.30pm - Monster
SUNDAY, 4TH AUGUST
12.00pm - Inshallah A Boy
2.30pm - Radical

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Get ready to sweat, smile, and make a difference at the Harpertastic 1km Travelling Burpees Challenge. 

Returning for its fourth year, this event is set to make an even greater impact in 2024.

This annual event, dedicated to raising funds for the Children’s Medical Research Institute, promises to be a major highlight, building on the momentum of last year’s fundraising success.

At just two years old, Harper Flynn was diagnosed with two rare gene mutations called CACNA1E and HK1, both of which are neurological based conditions. The young girl is now six-years-old, however, heavily relies on extensive care from family members and supporters in all aspects of her daily life.

Studies show that 1 in 20 children will be diagnosed with a genetic disorder or cancer, and each $50 raised funds one hour of crucial research.

Despite Harpers circumstances, relatives say her illness doesn’t stop her from doing the things she loves.

“She doesn’t really let her disability get in the way of what she wants to do every day,” said Harper’s grandmother Christine Joy.

By donating to the 'Jeans for Genes' initiative through the Harpertastic 1km Travelling Burpees Challenge, you can help support young children in their fight whilst contributing to the ultimate goal of finding a cure.

Scheduled for Saturday, August 3rd, 2024, the event will commence from 7.30am and will be located on the lawn in front of the Mackay Regional Council building.

To kickstart the morning, the children’s ‘Grayson’s Race for Research’ will be held, which is suitable for participants who are 12-year-olds and under.

As the children’s race concludes, the Harpertastic 1km Travel Burpees challenge will begin.

General Admission is $20 per adult and $10 for 12 years and younger.

Register online or via the QR code and get ready to sweat up a storm to raise funds for Children’s Medical Research. All funds raised go directly to Jeans for Genes!

WHAT: Harpertastic 1km of Travel Burpees 2024
WHEN: Saturday, August 3rd, registration from 7:30am
WHERE: Mackay Regional Council Lawn
REGISTRATION: QR code or online at Eventbrite.com

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Get ready to sweat, smile and support this year’s Harpertastic 1km Travelling Burpees Challenge at the Mackay Regional Council Lawn, from 7.30am on Saturday, August 3!

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Overview from Mackay Choral Society
Life is full of ups and downs, so come and enjoy songs that will leave you feeling on top of the world!
There will be something for everyone, as you hear a mixture of music that will have you tapping your feet and singing along. There's a little swing, some classics from movies and musicals and a few pieces that may be new to your ears, but will ring true to your heart.

The beautiful harmonies of the choir will be expertly conducted by Nicole Thomson with the very talented Jan Whelan OAM at the piano. Joining them on stage will be flautist, Belinda Rooney, no stranger to Mackay audiences. This is a family-friendly show that will provide some much-needed relief from the stresses of everyday life, so come and share in The Rhythms of Life this coming August!

Contributed by Isobel Gillman

Mackay Choral Society presents The Rhythms of Life
When: Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th August 2024 at 2:00PM
Where: CQCM Theatre, 151 Boundary Road, Ooralea Qld 4740
Ticket Prices: Adult $35, Concession $30, Children $20
Book at: www.trybooking.com/CQXCM or call 0422 264 397

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