PCYC Bowen had a great turnout for a series of unforgettable performances

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Bowen PCYC held an event for its Amped Up Youth Music Initiative on April 17^th, where the community came together to celebrate their young members’ musical talent.  

Amped Up Youth Music Initiative is a platform for young people to share music, receive mentoring and develop valuable performance experience.  

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“There was a strong turnout of performers and spectators with an electric atmosphere than ran through the entire afternoon,” said a PCYC spokesperson.  

The event was not short of highlights.  

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Believe Studio Whitsundays – a local performing arts studio – kicked things off with a powerful performance of ‘Ex-Wives’ from Six the Musical.  

Max performed iconic contemporary track ‘Beautiful Things’ by Benson Boone for the first time, performing with great emotion and intensity.  

The band Heavy Weight Banana Leaf performed a Nirvana-inspired set as part of their debut gig.  

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Next up, the Krusaderz kept the momentum going with a stream of classic rock hits.  

Finally, the group Sugar N Spice closed the show.  

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“Amped Up Youth Music Intiative absolutely rocked PCYC Bowen, wrapping up Youth Week with heart, talent and a whole lot of noise,” said PCYC Bowen Club Manager Paul Ellis.  

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Whitsunday Regional Council is hosting the third annual State of the Region at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre on 8 May 2026.

Following on from two years of highly successful events, this year’s forum is set to inspire and motivate, leading the conversation about the future of the Whitsunday Region.

The forum will be led by MC Natassia Wheeler, CEO Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) and will be composed of three panels spotlighting former Olympians, business leaders, industry experts and government decision makers.

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Mayor Ry Collins will lead the conversation as he outlines the state of the Whitsundays and the opportunities ahead.

“The Whitsundays is entering a serious growth phase.

“This event is your opportunity to be part of the discussions shaping our region’s future and to gain real insights into our economic future,” Mayor Collins said.

The Whitsunday Region is the fastest growing Local Government Area (LGA) in regional Queensland.

“Our region is booming, with strong economic benefits being delivered to the local economy.

“We’re eager to explore how Brisbane 2032 will contribute to this expansion in the leadup, delivery, and in the aftermath of the games,” he added.

The forum will deliver real practical tips and motivate participants to find new and exciting opportunities to grow, adapt and think bigger.

The event is free, but pre-registration is required. To reserve your spot and be part of the action, visit https://bit.ly/WRC-SOTR

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Additional Information

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Olympic Panel

• Dominique Lamb - Brisbane 2032

• Cate Campbell – Australian Olympic Gold Medallist Swimmer

• Cedric Dubler – Australian Olympic Decathlete

• Al Vinney – Australian paralympic Rower & World Championship Silver Medallist

• Sam Tait – Australian Paralympic Alpine Skier

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Industry and Investment Panel

• Bernie Hogan – Chief Executive, Queensland Hotels Association

• Stuart Field – Managing Director, Oztix

• Euan Robertson, Managing Director, Blackstone

• James Gilmour, Co-Founder & Director, Gilmour Space Technologies

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Local Leaders Panel

• Tim Booth – CEO, Tourism Whitsundays

• The Hon Dale Last MP – Member for Burdekin

• Paul McLaughlin – Chairman, Bowen Collinsville Enterprise

• Jenn Honnery – CEO Bowen Gumlu Growers Association

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Next Friday 8 May 2026, Council will be hosting the State of the Region forum at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. Bringing together business, industry and community leaders, the event will explore what’s next for our region as we position for success leading into Brisbane 2032. Panel speakers include Olympic and Paralympic athletes such as Cate Campell, and industry leaders such as Euan Robert from Blackstone.  

Visit the Proserpine Entertainment Centre’ website to learn more about the event and to reserve your free spot.  

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The Bowen Community Centre is dedicated to bringing people together

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The Bowen Community Centre is excited to announce its second Open Day, to be held on Tuesday 12^th May, 9:30am-11:30am, at the beautiful new centre at 34–40 Gregory Street. This is a special moment for the team, and they’d love for you to be part of it.  

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Come along for luckydoor prizes, meet the friendly staff, learn about their roles, and explore the programs and shop they have on site. It’s the perfect chance to see what the community centre does, and how you can get involved. The centre will also have tea, coffee, and cake available—because everything is better with a cuppa and something sweet.

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But that’s not all. The Bowen Community Centre is also proud to be part of the Community Volunteer Expo at the Sunday Markets on 24^th May. This event will bring together many of our amazing local community groups to showcase the benefits of volunteering. If you’ve been thinking about getting involved or trying something new, this is the perfect opportunity to explore a wide range of volunteering options and chat with the organisations who make a real difference.

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Whether you’re curious, communityminded, or simply looking for a way to give back, the team would love to see you. Together, Bowen can continue to build a stronger, more connected community.

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Contributed with thanks to the Bowen Community Centre.  

WHAT: Bowen Community Centre Open Day

WHEN: Tuesday 12^th May, 9.30am-11.30am

WHERE: Bowen Community Centre

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Friday 24^th April

Conversations with Art

1.30pm

Held one Friday a month at Artspace Mackay, Conversations with Art invites the community to slow down and step inside the world of creativity through relaxed, guided discussion led by gallery staff. Running from 1.30pm to 3.00pm on selected dates between April and November, the free sessions explore artworks and images from gallery and museum collections in an engaging, open format. Designed for all experience levels, from curious beginners to practising artists, the program offers an inclusive space to reflect, question and connect through art. Free tickets available.

Artspace Mackay  

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Youth Fest ‘26

2.30pm

Young people across Mackay are invited to celebrate Queensland Youth Week at Youth Festival ’26, a free afternoon of entertainment, creativity and connection hosted by the Mackay Youth Council at Northern Beaches Community Hub. Running from 2.30pm to 6.00pm on Friday 24 April, the event will feature free food, live music, visual arts, games, sports and a range of interactive activities designed to bring the community together. Open to ages 11 to 18, Youth Fest ’26 offers a welcoming space to relax, meet new people and try something different in a vibrant, youth-focused atmosphere.

Northern Beaches Community Hub

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Community Jam At Friday Flow  

6pm

Community members are invited to kick back and enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the river at Community Jam Friday Flow at Bluewater Quay. Running for two and a half hours, the free community gathering offers something for all ages, with children able to burn off energy on a fun gymnastics airtrack while adults unwind to live music from Jamesley. Food and drinks will also be available, creating the perfect setting to catch up with friends, enjoy the waterfront atmosphere and ease into the weekend with the local community.

Bluewater Quay

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Saturday 25^th April

ANZAC Services  

Refer to page 10 for a full list of ANZAC Day services taking place across the Mackay and Isaac regions. A wide range of dawn, morning and commemorative services will be held, offering multiple opportunities for the community to come together, pay respects and honour those who laid their life down before us.

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Abundance Day  

9am

Come Along for Abundance Day, a celebration of sharing, connection and homegrown produce hosted by the MCG Crew. The event encourages residents to bring along excess fruit, vegetables, seeds or garden harvests, from pumpkins to citrus and everything in between, to share with others in the spirit of “people care and fair share.” Held as a relaxed community gathering, the day also includes a shared morning tea, with participants welcome to bring a plate to contribute. Abundance Day celebrates gardens of all sizes and aims to revive a simple tradition of generosity, sustainability and community spirit through the gift of fresh, seasonal produce.

7 Sarah Street, Mackay

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Artist Book Collective  

10.30am

Held on the fourth Sunday of each month, the Artist Book Collective (ABC) invites creatives across the region to connect through the art of bookmaking at Artspace Mackay. Running from 10.30am to 12.30pm in the Workshop Room within the Civic Precinct on Gordon Street, the community-led group brings artists together to share skills, exchange ideas and draw inspiration from the Mackay Regional Council Artists’ Book Collection. New members are encouraged to attend and contribute to a growing local network of book artists, fostering collaboration and creative exploration in a welcoming, hands-on environment. Free tickets available  

61 Gordon Street, Mackay

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True Street ANZAC Day Meet

4pm

Gather this ANZAC Day for the True Street Car Meet, beginning from 4.00pm by the beach at Mulherin Park, East Point Avenue near the Surf Life Saving Club. The family-friendly event offers an afternoon showcase of vehicles in a relaxed coastal setting, with space for children to play, a nearby playground, and plenty of room to unwind with a chair or picnic blanket. Attendees are encouraged to settle in and enjoy the sunset atmosphere, with a BBQ also possible on the day. The gathering offers a laid-back way for the community to come together and reflect on ANZAC Day, under the spirit of remembrance and connection.

Mulherin Park, East Point Avenue near the Surf Life Saving Club

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Tuesday 28^th April

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BMA Kids Space  

9.30am

enjoy BMA Kidspace, a free monthly program for children aged 0–5 years at Artspace Mackay. Running from 9.30am to 1.30pm one Tuesday each month, the drop-in program offers hands-on art-making, live music, singing and dancing in a relaxed, co-operative learning environment. Two art sessions and a dedicated music session allow families to come and go throughout the morning. Supported by Artspace Mackay and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, the program encourages early creativity, play and connection, with no bookings required.

Artspace Mackay

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Free safeTALK Suicide Prevention   

6pm

Community members are encouraged to attend a free safeTALK Suicide Prevention training session, with bookings essential via www.grapevinegroup.org.au/safeTALK. The workshop teaches participants how to identify someone at risk of suicide, start conversations with people experiencing suicidal thoughts, and connect them with appropriate support services. Delivered by qualified LivingWorks trainers, the internationally recognised program builds practical, life-saving awareness. Places are strictly limited to 30 participants, with early booking recommended. Parents may also bring teenagers aged 15 and over to take part in the training.

Ocean International  

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Images from Pia Johnson

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Feathers will fly for Mackay audiences when Circa’s Duck Pond arrives to the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on 6 May, reimagining Swan Lake as a contemporary circus spectacular.

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Directed by Yaron Lifschitz, the production is packed with Circa’s signature physicality and a bold, playful energy.

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Replacing classical ballet with aerials, acrobatics and tightly choreographed ensemble work, Duck Pond delivers spectacle with a wink. Cheeky visual moments - including a sequinned, flipper-wearing duck army and a burlesque Black Swan - bring humour and surprise to the stage.

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While the energy is high, the story remains central. Drawing on the familiar tale of swans and hapless princes, the production balances athletic performance with warmth and wit.

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"Grappling with a masterpiece like Swan Lake is terrifying. Everyone knows the Dance of the Cygnets and the 32 fouettés," says Circa Artistic Director Yaron Lifschitz.

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"Our role is to bring them into circus and into the twenty-first century. Circus is nowhere near as precise or as refined as ballet. It tends to be shaggy, possibly more exciting, but definitely less elegant. We have to dance that line with as much grace as we can muster." said Lifschitz.

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Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager of Major Venues, said the production offered something unique for Mackay audiences.

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“Ballet and circus perform exceptionally well in Mackay, and Circa’s distinctive approach makes this production even more special,” he said.

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“We’re proud to bring Duck Pond to Mackay and strongly encourage audiences to see Circa in action,” Bobeldyk said.

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Touching, funny and thoroughly entertaining, Duck Pond is ultimately a story about identity and finding your true self - offering Mackay audiences a fresh and unexpected take on a beloved classic.

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Duck Pond by Circa will perform one show only on 6 May. Tickets are on sale now.

The MECC and Circa present – Duck Pond

Wednesday 6 May, 7.30pm

MECC Auditorium

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

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What began in 2016 as a local initiative with a clear purpose has developed into one of Mackay’s most established and impactful community fundraising events. The Key Solutions -M&P Services Annual Charity Golf Day was founded to support those in need across the region, and over the past decade it has become a consistent platform for business, community and charity to come together in a shared effort of giving.

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Since its inception, the event has raised more than $350,000 for local charities, including $75,000+ in 2025 alone, with support directed to 13 local organisations in the most recent year. The growth of the event reflects a sustained and structured commitment to community investment, underpinned by strong participation from sponsors, players and supporters across the region. In 2025 there was $35,000 in prizes and giveaways on the day plus the mega raffle of a $39,000 club house. The event is a clear winner for the biggest event of its kind in North Queensland.  

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Beneficiaries over the years have included a wide range of vital services and organisations such as Chances House, BMA-CQ Rescue, Ronald McDonald House, Community Accommodation Support Agency, Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, Kidney Support Network, Wildlife Rehabilitation Queensland, Mackay Netball Association, Project Pink, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Mackay Community Visitors Association, Trudy Crowley Foundation & Mackay Cutters Change the Game with a main focus of “Funds Stay Local”.  

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The event wouldn’t be possible without the reoccurring support from some well-known local business who identify the benefits of supporting this well-known charitable event with companies like Key Solutions Group, QCCS, MM Electrical Mackay, Blacksmith Jacks, GB Electrical, RIMEX, SCIG, Harvey Norman and Penske all supporting the event year on year.  

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The 10th Annual Charity Golf Day in 2025 marked a significant milestone, both in scale and impact. With more than 100 donated raffle prizes and auction items, alongside experiential packages valued at over $70,000, the event delivered another strong result for the community. A defining moment came when Mr Rod Allen from Inspec Industries won the $39,000 SCIG Clubhouse, before making the immediate decision to donate it directly to the Trudy Crowley Foundation – an act that captured the true meaning of the day.

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M&P Services has consistently acknowledged that the success of the event is driven by collective community contribution, with enduring support from sponsors, participants, volunteers and the Mackay Golf Club forming the foundation of its continued growth.

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Looking ahead, preparations are now underway for the 2026 M&P Services / Key Solutions Group Annual Charity Golf Day, scheduled for Friday 14th August 2026 at Mackay Golf Course. The event will once again bring together business and community leaders for a day centred on connection, competition and measurable local impact.

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With demand increasing each year and the event traditionally reaching capacity through returning supporters, organisers are encouraging expressions of interest via marketing@mpservices.net.au.

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Founded in 1986 as a modest mechanical and panel shop, M&P Services always punched above its weight. Building on a strong reputation, the family business quickly became a trusted name within the local community. Forty years on, it has grown into an enterprise with not just regional, but national impact. 

What began as a hands-on service operation, built on practical skill, long hours, and a commitment to getting the job done right, has evolved into a diverse enterprise spanning fleet servicing, transport/logistics and, more recently, the manufacturing of portable buildings and homes. 

 
Managing director, Max Lamb Jr, explained: 

“We're making some pretty big waves against national competition, and we've got a lot of unique products that we've developed ourselves which are changing the way portables are getting utilised.” 

Their biggest success has been in creating mobile wheeled infrastructure, sought out by clients within mining and construction. 

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These ‘mobile crib units’, fully equipped with all modern amenities, have become an integral part of numerous projects across Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea. 

The units offer rapid deployment, are easy to transport and offer superior safety, productivity and are especially popular in the current climate providing significant and measurable fuel savings on mining circuits. They cater to industries such as mining, construction, civil and remote area services, providing workers with comfortable, fully functional living and workspaces even in the most challenging environments. 

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Dedicated to staying local, M&P Services manufactures from their purpose built 15m facility in Paget, meeting or exceeding rigorous industry standards. 

According to Max Jr, the company’s ability to tailor these solutions to the unique demands of clients across various sectors has been key to its ongoing success. As M&P Services expands its operations, it continues to innovate in the field of transportable and modular buildings. 

Looking back, the company’s success began all the way back in 1986 with Max’s father (Max Snr) and his business partner Peter Brayshaw (dec).  

“They were just two mates that would hang out on weekends, go fishing and skiing, and have a beer together.” Max Jr said. 

“At M&P they were performing both mechanical and panel repairs on vehicles, trucks, and trailers. 

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“Fast forward to 40 years, and we're still in the service industry, but the focus has changed.” 
 
Though their output has evolved, Max pointed out, the same mentality underpins the mission as it did in 1986.  
 
“In the early days of the business, Dad built a good reputation by getting the job done, whether it be loading trucks on weekends, working weekends and all hours of the day or night, as required. 

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“His mentality to just roll your sleeves up and get through the work laid the foundation for what we do now; we just get on with the job, working to a good time frame, and working closely with clients to make sure that they're satisfied.” 
 
The strength of M&P’s family values is evidenced by the long-standing staff who have stayed loyal to the business over decades.  
 
“The longevity of my employees a makes my job much easier and contributes to easy," Max said. 

“A large percentage of our staff have been with us more than five and ten years, a few over fifteen and twenty.” 

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Max Jr himself has been with the company since 1992, taking the helm and buying into the business when Mr Brayshaw retired in 1997. 

“Having worked at the business as an apprentice mechanic from 1992, I've been part of the stunning transformation since," he said. 

“I still enjoy coming to work every day after 34 years” 

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With his father’s hardworking genes and a vision for design and growth, Max Lamb Jr has led M&P to become one of the largest portable building manufacturers in regional Queensland, but his sights remain firm on the road ahead.

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What’s a business value you uphold? 

Giving back to the community. We’re very proud of our annual golf day; we’re holding our eleventh this year. Last year, we raised $75,000 to distribute amongst 13 different local charities. 

mpservices.net.au 

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Holy Spirit College Mackay has inspired 48 primary students through a hands-on hydraulics STEM workshop with QMEA, giving them real-world experience in engineering, design and teamwork. Photos supplied

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Holy Spirit College (HSC) Mackay has reinforced its reputation as a leader in STEM education by hosting 48 enthusiastic young engineers from eight local Catholic Primary Schools for an inspiring Heavy Hydraulics Workshop. The event, held at the Father Bucas Centre, transformed the space into a dynamic hub of innovation, collaboration, and hands-on learning.

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A Day of Engineering Excellence

The STEM Day challenged Year 5 and 6 students to step into the world of industrial design and mechanical engineering. Under expert guidance, they tackled two exciting challenges:

• Digital Prototyping: Using TinkerCAD software, students designed custom vehicle chassis, gaining confidence with cutting-edge Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools.

• Mechanical Assembly: Teams then brought their designs to life by constructing functional hydraulic arms, learning how fluid pressure can be harnessed to lift heavy loads.

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Penelope from St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School, West Mackay said, "The best part of the day was when we got to make our own hydraulic arm and then design the base in TinkerCAD.”

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Partnership Power

This high-quality learning experience was made possible through HSC’s collaboration with the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA). Their invaluable support and expertise enabled students to experience real-world engineering concepts inspired by the mining and construction industries.

Holy Spirit College Principal, Mrs Alison Wales highlighted the significance of industry partnerships: "Events like our STEM Day are a wonderful example of how we can inspire the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators, equipping them with the skills they need to succeed in the future."

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Inspiring the Next Generation

The day wasn’t just about technical skills—it was also about fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and resilience. "We had to work as a group to make the machine work, everyone had their part to do" shared Hadley from St Anne’s Catholic Primary School, Sarina showcasingthe problem-solving mindset encouraged at HSC.

As the students returned to their schools, they carried with them a deeper understanding of the engineering principles that power the modern world—and a spark of inspiration for the future.

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Holy Spirit College remains committed to nurturing young minds through initiatives like this, ensuring students are equipped for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

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Photo source: Facebook

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This month Mackay Hospital and Health Service celebrate 10 years of Deadly Choices in the region.  

A colourful community and cultural event at Victoria Park State School brought together Traditional Elders, community members, local groups and organisations and healthcare staff to mark a decade of empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to make healthy lifestyle choices.

From cultural activities and health promotion stalls to plenty of fun for families, it was a day to reflect on the growth of strong partnerships, proud achievements and the lasting impact of this incredible program.

Deadly Choices has always been supported by dedicated ambassadors, including the 10-year anniversary celebration special guest and Australian professional women’s rugby league player Tallisha Harden, who inspires Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through her leadership and advocacy.

Another highlight of the anniversary celebration was the acknowledgement of Aunty Joan, whose unwavering commitment to the program since 2015 has made a lasting impact.

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To see more photos visit: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/mackay-hospital-celebrates-a-decade-of-deadly-choices

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The exhibition program at Artspace Mackay runs through until June 21, with Matters of Time: Contemporary Metal Practices anchoring the Main Gallery and highlighting an extended season of contemporary, cultural and international works on display. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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Three new exhibitions were previewed last Friday at Artspace Mackay ahead of their official opening on Saturday 18th April, offering an early look at works spanning contemporary metal practice, cultural heritage and contemporary visual storytelling.

At the centre of the new program is Matters of Time: Contemporary Metal Practices, which will be presented in the Main Gallery until June 21. The exhibition explores the evolving role of metal in contemporary art and its relationship with time, bridging traditional smithing techniques with modern metalworking approaches.

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Curator Catherine Woolley said the exhibition was developed to strengthen connections between contemporary artists and regional audiences.

“This particular exhibition was really interested in connecting contemporary artists with regional areas,” she said.

The exhibition features artists from across Australia as well as international contributors, with metal itself central to the exhibition’s themes due to its transformative nature.

“It’s such an incredibly transformative material. It can be melted down, it can be reused. It also responds to atmospheric conditions, so it rusts and erodes and weathers.”

She said the artists draw on these qualities to explore ideas around time, change and environmental impact.

“The artists are also questioning around extraction, metals and material that’s mined from the earth, so they’re often thinking about more sustainable ways that we can work with this material through both art and design practices.”

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Also now open to the public is Poco a poco, se va lejos (Little by little, you go far) by Joshua Searle in the Foyer Gallery, alongside Skeletons by Judy Watson in the Foundation Gallery.

Searle said his work draws on traditional ceramic forms from Colombia alongside a personal exploration of family history.

“They were taken from traditional ceramic forms in Colombia,” he said. “A couple of years ago I was fortunate enough to work with museums and archaeologists in Colombia for a few months, looking at my family’s history and the traditional histories and sculpture practices of Colombia.”

He said presenting the work in Mackay had been a meaningful experience.

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“I’m super excited to be here in Mackay. We’ve had the pleasure of getting to experience a lot of the beautiful natural areas that Mackay’s got to offer.”

Searle also praised the collaboration with the gallery team.

“It’s been an amazing opportunity to work with the whole team at Artspace Mackay. It’s just a pleasure to share this work with the community up here.”

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Even during installation, the exhibition prompted early public engagement, with two encounters leaving a lasting impression.

“A wonderful woman who works in the café next door was coming in with some Spanish tongue twisters associated with the artwork.”

“There was also another woman whose husband had just been diagnosed with quite severe illness and she said that seeing that work at this time meant so much to her,” Mr Searle said.  

“That really stuck with me.”

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Mackay Regional Councillor Heath Paton said the exhibitions marked an important cultural step for the region.

“We’ve always had beautiful pieces on display, but having these works here of this calibre is just a great step in the right direction for us as a region,” he said.

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From circus-style spectacle to nostalgic musicals and laugh-out-loud comedy, May is shaping up to be a packed month at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, with something on the calendar for every kind of night out.

Kicking things off in style is the Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball on 2 May, transforming the venue into a James Bond-inspired evening of glamour, entertainment and fundraising. Guests can expect a three-course gala dinner, live music from Brisbane band Beccy & The Jets, and plenty of action throughout the night, from auctions and raffles to casino-style games, all in support of The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service and The Neighbourhood Community Hub’s Food Diversion Program.

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Just days later, the stage is set for a bold reimagining of a classic, with Duck Pond arriving on 6 May. Presented by Circa, the performance puts a playful, contemporary twist on Swan Lake, blending acrobatics, aerials and humour into a high-energy circus spectacular suitable for all ages.

Comedy fans won’t want to miss Luke Kidgell, who brings his Good Intentions tour to Mackay on 7 May. Known for his viral crowd work and unfiltered humour, Kidgell’s latest show promises plenty of unexpected moments and adult-themed laughs.

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Later in the month, musical lovers can take their pick between singing along or sitting back and soaking up the show, as Grease hits the stage from 21 to 23 May. The production includes a special singalong performance, inviting audiences to belt out classics like Summer Nights and Greased Lightnin’, alongside traditional showings of the beloved story set at Rydell High.

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Families are also well catered for, with Pevan & Sarah in Concert bringing high-energy, interactive fun to the stage on 29 May. The popular duo blends music, education and plenty of laughs in a show designed to entertain both kids and their grown-ups.

Rounding out the month is The Big Chill Out on 30 May, a feel-good tribute concert celebrating the iconic soundtrack that helped revive Motown. Featuring hits from legendary artists like Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin and Smokey Robinson, the show promises a night of soul, nostalgia and timeless music performed live by a 10-piece band.

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With a mix of theatre, music, comedy and community events, the MECC’s May program offers plenty of reasons to get out and experience Mackay’s thriving arts and entertainment scene.

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Manyia Vale (right) emphasises the importance of yoga in its ability to heal both the body and mind Photo source: Facebook

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Vibe Yoga Pilates was born from both intuition and a gap in the Whitsundays wellness scene. At the time, Airlie Beach had no infrared hot yoga or Pilates studio, despite the powerful benefits of these practices. Having already opened three studios on the Sunshine Coast, ManyiaVale knew the impact such a space could have on a community.

The opportunity came unexpectedly. After leaving the Whitsundays, a former massage client reached out with a studio space. With no real plans to return, Manyia followed instinct and said yes—bringing hot yoga and Pilates to Airlie Beach. Nearly four years on, that vision continues to grow.

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Manyia’s journey began as a competitive runner from the age of eight, leading to marathons and triathlons before a serious hip injury changed everything. During recovery, she discovered original hot Hatha yoga. Despite her fitness, the practice was challenging—but transformative. Through consistency, she released physical tension and mental stress, gaining strength, clarity, and connection.

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This led to teacher training with Bikram Choudhury in the United States in 2000 and years of study across the world, always returning to hot yoga, alongside Pilates.

For Manyia, yoga is not about flexibility or perfection—it’s about healing. It connects breath and movement to restore balance physically, mentally, and emotionally.

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“It’s never too late to start again,” said Manyia.

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“It’s sharing something so powerful because you feel it yourself. The most rewarding part is watching people transform. It’s not just about teaching yoga – it’s about holding space. It’s about helping people come back to themselves, find their true self, and heal their body and mind so they can live a healthier, more pain-free, amazing life.”

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Karen Hill Floral Design: More than just a business. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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For the past 11 years, Karen Hill Floral Design has been more than just a floral business — it has been built on passion, resilience, creativity, and community.

What began as a love for flowers has grown into a trusted name, woven into the lives of so many people through life’s most meaningful moments. From celebrations and weddings to sympathy flowers and everyday gestures of love, every arrangement has been created with heart and purpose.

Flowers have always been more than something beautiful. They tell stories, bring comfort, celebrate milestones, and say what words sometimes cannot.

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A New Chapter — Opening in Proserpine

“Now, after more than a decade in business, I am incredibly proud to be opening a new store in Proserpine, Queensland.

This is more than opening a shopfront — it is the beginning of an exciting new chapter. The new Proserpine store is a space created for the community — a welcoming place where locals can connect, share their stories, and find flowers designed with care and authenticity.

This store represents growth, dedication, and the support of the people who have stood beside Karen Hill Floral Design over the years.”

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Built by Community

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“No business reaches 11 years without the support of its people.

To every customer, friend, family member, and local supporter who has trusted and encouraged this journey — thank you. Your support has helped shape Karen Hill Floral Design into what it is today.

This new store is not just mine. It belongs to the community that helped build it.

Here’s to the next chapter in Proserpine, and many more years of creating beauty, connection, and unforgettable moments.”

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This week’s poem is from Suzy Gordon, a talented local artist and regular participant in the Whitsunday creative scene.  

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Rainbow Lorikeet

dusky confederation
hot treat

flame tree bough
populous retreat

configure, noise
indenture, flight

dread colour harvest
swooning, cacophonous night

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