
Airlie Beach is set for a huge weekend of classic rock as the Airlie Beach Hotel hosts two massive free tribute shows celebrating the music of Foreigner and Bon Jovi. The action begins on Saturday, 28 February, when Bon Jovi Forever – The Australian Bon Jovi Show takes to the stage from 2pm to 5.30pm. Touring internationally and renowned as one of the world’s hottest Bon Jovi tribute acts, the show delivers the ultimate experience for fans of the New Jersey rock legends. Audiences can expect a high-energy afternoon packed with powerhouse hits and fan favourites from Bon Jovi, including “Livin’ on a Prayer”, “Always”, “Bed of Roses”, “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “It’s My Life”. The production has previously featured on national television programs such as The AFL Footy Show and Foxtel’s The Tribute Show, showcasing its authenticity and stage presence. Known for selling out venues across the country, the band promises an afternoon that will have diehard fans and casual listeners alike singing along. The rock celebrations continue on Sunday, March 1, with a double-header event from 2pm to 5.30pm. Kicking off the afternoon from 2pm to 3.30pm is The Australian Foreigner Show, a tribute to the chart-topping sounds of Foreigner. The show captures the feel and presence of one of rock’s most successful bands, performing classics such as “I Want to Know What Love Is”, “Cold as Ice”, “Urgent”, “Feels Like the First Time”, “Waiting for a Girl Like You”, “Hot Blooded” and “Juke Box Hero”. From 4pm to 5.30pm, the very best of Bon Jovi returns to close out the weekend in style, ensuring back-to-back anthems and a lively atmosphere. With two afternoons of free live entertainment in the heart of town, the Airlie Beach Hotel is the place to be for locals and visitors looking to enjoy great music, waterfront views and an electric party atmosphere. Saturday 28 February WHAT: Bon Jovi Forever – Australian Bon Jovi Show WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel WHEN: 2pm til 5:30pm Sunday 1 March WHAT: Double Header, Best of Bon Joni and Foreigner – Australian Bon Jovi Show and The Australian Foreigner Show WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel WHEN: 2pm til 5:30pm Captions Photo source: Facebook
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GIG GUIDE – 20th FEB Friday 20 February Airlie Beach Hotel: Jam Hot Live – Sports Bar (8am – 11pm) Grandview Hotel: Paul Fergus (from 8pm) KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm) Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm) Saturday 21 February Airlie Beach Hotel: Jam Hot Live (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Mad Mariachi (6.30pm – 9.30pm) Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm) KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm) Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm – 7pm) Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Bad Girl (1pm – 5pm) Sunday 22 February Airlie Beach Hotel: Mad Mariachi (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30-9.30pm) Coral Sea Marina Resort: Noah Davis (1pm – 5pm) KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm) Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm – 7pm) Grandview Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm) Monday 23 February KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm) Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm) Tuesday 24 February KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm) Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm) Wednesday 25 February KCs: Dylan Hammond (from 8pm) Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm) Thursday 26 February Airlie Beach Hotel: Pluto Tango (7pm – 10pm) KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm) Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)
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The Whitsundays Writers Festival returns on Sunday 13 September 2026 with a one-day celebration of local authors, regional stories, and the readers who bring them to life. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday Marine Club, Airlie Beach, the festival promises an engaging, thought-provoking, and community-focused experience for all ages. Festival-goers can look forward to two intimate panel discussions, exploring the journey from inspiration to publication, and the creative sparks that drive storytelling. Hear from talented local authors as they share insights, experiences, and advice for aspiring writers. The day will also feature author readings, the presentation of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, and Stories by the Sea — a lively book buy-and-swap event celebrating local voices and community participation. Stay tuned for full program details and ticket releases, and don’t miss your chance to be part of the region’s premier literary celebration. Save the Date When: 10:30am-4:30pm Sunday 13 September 2026 Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Ave, Airlie Beach Calling Local Authors – Expression of Interest Now Open! Are you a published author living in the Whitsundays, Central or North Queensland region? We’d love to hear from you! For the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, we’re inviting local authors to express interest in joining two engaging panel conversations. Local authors can also confirm a dedicated space to sell books directly to festival attendees. EOI deadline: 11:59pm, Saturday 28 February 2026 Complete the online form: 2026 Expression of Interest – Whitsundays Writers Start writing! 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards We’re excited to announce the 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, celebrating the next generation of Australian storytelling. This year’s awards include: Best Short Story – Adult & Under 18 divisions First prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500 Up to 3,000 words of unpublished creative fiction Poetry Prize First prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500 Up to 50 lines of unpublished poetry Judged on originality, creativity, and expressiveness Entries open 16 March to 30 June 2026 with a $20 entry fee. These awards are a vital investment in Australian literary culture, giving local and national writers the chance to have their work recognised and celebrated. Don’t miss the opportunity to join a community that champions creativity, imagination, and the power of storytelling. Contributed with thanks to Whitsundays Writers Festival.
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Laughter is on its way to the Whitsundays as the Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow rolls into town, bringing a taste of Australia’s biggest comedy celebration to our own backyard. For nearly 30 years, this travelling showcase has carried the spirit of the festival far beyond the bright lights of the city, connecting regional communities with world-class performers and emerging talent alike. For Proserpine and the greater Whitsundays region, events like this matter. Hosting the Roadshow at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre reinforces the importance of investing in local arts infrastructure and ensuring our communities remain culturally vibrant. Live comedy does more than entertain. It brings people together, sparks conversation and offers a much-needed release from the pressures of daily life. When residents can gather with friends, share a laugh and support a live performance close to home, it strengthens social bonds and boosts the local economy through dining, hospitality and tourism. The Roadshow’s carefully curated line-up promises a mix of established comedy heavyweights and exciting new voices, delivering sharp wit, clever storytelling and plenty of surprises. It’s a reminder that regional Australia deserves access to the very best in live performance. For the Whitsundays, this isn’t just a night out: it’s a celebration of connection, culture and community, right here where we live. Captions Photo sourced
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This November the exquisite talents of an outstanding forty-piece orchestra will delight and impress audiences at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre with the commendable debut of My Favorite Things – Rodgers & Hammerstein Gala Concert. Lovers and appreciators of the arts are invited to treat and immerse themselves to a once in a lifetime cinematic experience celebrating the timeless work of the legendary music duo.
Along with forty professional musicians, international stars of the stage and screen will perform in the special anniversary concert filmed at London’s newly restored Theatre Royal Drury Lane. A sensational cinema screening, the performance was produced at the same venue which premiered the original West End productions of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma!, Carousel, South Pacific, and The King and I.
This unmissable screening will take place at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre at both 11am and 3pm on Wednesday 20 November with tickets costing only $20 per person. Join fellow theatre lovers for a morning or afternoon of unforgettable melodies and showstopping performances and enjoy the dazzling talents which have made Rodgers & Hammerstein beloved for generations.
What: My Favourite Things – Rodger & Hammerstein Gala Concert.
When: Wednesday 20 November, 11am & 3pm.
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street Proserpine.

Proserpine State High School's 62nd Annual Awards Night was held on Tuesday celebrating the outstanding achievements of students in academics, sports, cultural and leadership pursuits. The evening was a testament to the dedication, commitment and determination of students, made possible by the support of their families, the guidance of teachers and the contribution of the entire school community. Students have consistently shown what it means to pursue excellence, demonstrating the school values.
Photo Captions
1. Year 12 student Alice Pini received the James Cook University Top Scholar Award.
2. Year 12 student Jacob Bell was awarded the AMPOL Best All Rounder Award.
3. Year 12 student Holly Perrin received the final award of the night celebrating her success as the "2024 Student of the Year". She is pictured with Proserpine State High School P&C President Natalie Stuchbree.
4. Principal Don McDermid is pictured with Year 12 student Reid Ogden who received the Peter Maywald Quiet Achiever Award.
5. Year 12 student Steven Heath was a worthy recipient of the Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award.
6. The 2024 Dawson Medal recipient was Year 12 student Olivia Murphy who is pictured with Mayor Ry Collins.
7. Year 10 student Lillian Kelly was the recipient of the Hamilton Island Extraordinary Achievement Award.
8. Year 7 student Myka Kelly was the recipient of the 21st Century Learner Award.
9. Year 12 student Nathan Richards was the 2024 Citizenship Award recipient and is pictured with Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins on the evening.
10. Year 8 student Elyse Peterson was awarded the Encouragement Award.
11. Year 7 student Jack Oberg was named Sportsperson of the Year.
12. Year 12 students Lacey Linneweber and Sienna Thomson received the QATSIF Young Indigenous Leader Awards.
13. Year 10 students Wiremu Tairaki and Mitsuki Jaremus were named the St Vincent de Paul Scholarship recipients. They are pictured with St Vincent de Paul Cannonvale representatives Lane and Ron Telford.
14. Year 12 student Rio Withyman was named the Cindy Seawright Memorial Awardee. He is pictured with business sponsor Rebecca Stewart from Ecodrill.
15. Year 12 student Ebony Crighton received the 2024 Cultural Award that was presented by Proserpine State High School Head of Department The Arts Jenny Napier.
16. Year 10 student Danni Muller was the recipient of the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Youth Leadership Teamwork Award.
17. Year 9 student Millie Groom received the Junior Secondary All Rounder Award.

Bowen State High School are celebrating after their Year 8 and 9 students completed their week in Mackay at the F1 in Schools State Final.
Principal Rob Harris is proud of both teams.
“A special congratulations goes to team Farina, who came 3rd overall in the state, for the Development Class aspect of the competition, and to team Distance, for receiving multiple “Best in Category” awards for the Development Class.” Said principal Rob Harris.
Teacher of Bowen State High School’s Development Class Kayne Fayolle said despite challenges, the teams came together and he is very proud of them.
“It is not always possible for teams to get on perfectly - there are bound to be conflicts with these sort of high-stress competitive projects - but these guys really managed themselves and how they interacted with each other fantastically,” said Mr Fayolle.
“I could not be more proud of how these students handled themselves.”
In the F1 in Schools Program students integrate learning from English, Mathematics, Physics, Business, Design & ICT. Students from Bowen State High School also learn time management skills.
In semester 1 the school run F1 in School classes in their curriculum, but in semester 2 teams who are successful in reaching the State Finals have to complete their F1 projects in their own time.
Mr Fayolle is delighted with the learning they achieved.
“This year, all teams representing our school at the State Final demonstrated fantastic work ethic, flexibility, interpersonal skills, communication and time management in being able to work away from school and access our school's after-school HUB program to be able to meet deadlines,” he said.
Some participants in F1 in School are even offered employment by the industry before they complete their studies. F1 in Schools students have been head hunted by the Airbus Design Centre in the United Kingdom and others have taken roles in Formula One teams.
This program is a great opportunity for students all across the world, to have Bowen State High School students in the State Finals is a huge accomplishment.
Team Farina came 3rd overall in the state, for the Development Class aspect of the competition. Photo supplied
Team Distance received multiple “Best in Category” awards for the Development Class. Photo supplied

The Whitsunday Social Craft Group is looking for any school supplies that you do not want. Whether that's pencils, erasers, rulers, sharpeners, pens, geometry sets, unused paper or books with blank pages they want to hear from you.
The craft group like to save items from landfill and deliver them to remote island communities and schools in the Solomon Islands. Here, students do not have many resources and appreciate all the support they can get.
While Tina Everett from the Whitsunday Social Craft group has looked into donating the used items to charities in Australia, she is constantly told that they don’t collect items, just money so that parents can purchase items.
She has, therefore, taken it into her own hands to collect and deliver these much-needed items to regional area’s which otherwise would get little resources.
Tina kindly requests that all items be dropped off at the Whitsunday Social Craft Group's Boomerang Bag shop, located at the Whitsunday Shopping Centre, near the steps. She extends her heartfelt thanks to all individuals for their generous donations and continued support.
Do you have any unwanted school supplies lying around? Pop into the Whitsunday Social Craft Group’s Boomerang Bag shop or text Tina for more information on: 0409428793

Friday 8th November
Resource Industry Network Briefing
6.30am
This event is designed to offer a welcoming atmosphere for professionals in the region to connect, share insights, and cultivate meaningful relationships in an engaging environment. Taking place in the morning, November's industry event sets the perfect tone for a productive day ahead. Attendees can enjoy a leisurely networking experience over breakfast, fostering new connections and exploring potential collaborations in a relaxed setting.
Harrup Park Country Club
Crochet & Conversation
9am
Join Northern Beaches locals for a relaxed morning of crochet, coffee, and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your crochet tools or borrow from the communal box. All are welcome to connect, create, and enjoy the scenic surroundings and warm hospitality of this iconic spot.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant
LIVE Music
6-9pm
Enjoy Jan Arns LIVE 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
Downtown: The Mod Musical
7pm
DOWNTOWN! flips through the years like a musical magazine and takes you back to the music, the fashion and the freedom of the 60's! Join this non-stop journey of terrific new arrangements of such chart-topping hits as "To Sir With Love," "Downtown," "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me," "Son of A Preacher Man," and "Goldfinger"… MMCP is presenting a limited run! So don't miss out! Grab your tickets via trybooking.com
Souths Leagues Club Mackay
Saturday 9th November
Mackay Region Speech Contests
8.30am
Join the Toastmasters Area 14 Conference and cheer on their talented speakers as they compete to take home "The 'Masters Cup." This is their members' annual opportunity to showcase their speaking skills to a wider audience. Speakers from Mackay's Toastmasters clubs will be competing against each other in four contests: humorous, inspirational, constructive feedback, and impromptu. This year's theme is Melbourne Cup, so remember your best hat/fascinator - there is a prize for best dressed!
Jubilee Community Centre
Victoria Park State School P&C Christmas Fair 2024
4pm
Save the date! The Victoria Park State School P&C Christmas Fair is back in 2024 and is set to be the biggest one yet.
Victoria Park State School
RSPCA Mackay Celebrating A Decade Of Dedication
6pm
RSPCA Mackay will be holding a Cocktail evening to celebrate their 10th birthday! With a live band and canapes served throughout the evening it will be a night to remember! Guests will hear from the RSPCA Mackay's shelter manager and other speakers, and attendees can also take part in the exciting raffle and silent auction - with all proceeds directly supporting RSPCA Mackay's work with vulnerable animals. Tickets available via Eventbrite.com
Magpies Sporting Club
Sunday 10th November
Sunday Buffet Breakfast
9am-11am
Enjoy a delicious buffet breaky with family or friends this Sunday at Goosies Sport and Recreation Club. $20 for Members or $23 for non-members. Children 12 or under $10.
Goosies Sport and Recreation Club
Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3 pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel
Tuesday 12th November
BMA Kidspace
10am
BMA Kidspace at Artspace Mackay offers a free, creative play program for children 0-5 years, featuring two open art sessions and live kids' music. Drop in anytime between 10am and 2pm for art-making, singing, and dancing, and stay as long as you like! First Art session: 10 - 11:30am. Music session: 11:30am - 12:15pm. Second Art session: 12:15 - 2pm
Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct, Gordon Steet.
Book Of The Month – November
3.30pm
Artspace Mackay’s popular Book of the Month program invites visitors to enjoy a free, hands-on exploration of a featured artist’s book with guidance from Artspace Volunteers. This informal, inspiring event welcomes people of all ages and abilities to discover selected artists’ books from the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection.
Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct, Gordon Steet.
Wednesday 13th November
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
Explore A Gym
9am
Bring your child along for a morning of FUN! Explore-A-Gym is a 2 hour play session that is designed to give your child the opportunity to learn and explore in a non-structured environment. Suitable for ages 18 months to 5 years. Cost is $12/child
5 Snow Wright CRT, Beaconsfield. Mackay
Thursday 14th November
Get It Together – Better Housing Together
10am
Better Together Housing is for women over 55 who are considering their housing options for now and, in the future, and want to explore more about shared housing. Whether you own your own home or are renting, there are many benefits to sharing a home with another woman in a similar life stage as you. If you are new to Better Together Housing, give Mackay Project Worker Lauren a call to answer any questions you might have on 0419 179 495.
Building 3 Ground Floor City Campus, CQUniversity
Riverside Markets
3pm-8pm
Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!
Bluewater Quay
Mackay’s Business Networking Launch
5.45pm
Creating Collaborative Futures in Mackay - Join in on an exciting evening at the Mackay Business Networking Launch Party - a night dedicated to creating collaborative futures in the Mackay business community. Meet like-minded professionals, expand your network, and discover new opportunities in a relaxed and vibrant setting. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow with fellow entrepreneurs.
Ocean International

On Friday 15 November Proserpine Museum will be holding an Art Exhibition of established and emerging artists.
Organiser of the emerging artists art exhibition, Dawn Pearce has been an art teacher 30 years and says this art exhibition is all about helping aspiring artists and getting them on the wall.
“I want people to come out and enjoy themselves, have a little night out, and have a little think about what's out there. Giving the people a lift and an opportunity to exhibit their work, that's my most important thing,” said Dawn.
Dawn said that she likes to see art flourish and she also can see the potential that Proserpine has to offer, so she is extremely proud to be able to showcase this to the Whitsunday community.
The art expo will be opened by Councillor John Collins and will start at 6.30pm.
What: Art Exhibition of Established and Emerging Artists
Where: Proserpine Museum
When: Friday 15 November from 6.30pm
Artwork by event organiser Dawn Pearce
Wake Up Mum
Birdlife
Images supplied

It’s go-time! Your ultimate weekend escape is just a ticket away - so if you’re still dreaming of that spontaneous adventure, let the Airlie Beach Festival of Music make it a reality.
Picture this: sandy toes and sunsets, non-stop music and a crowd of fans all living for the moment.
Ready to join? It’s as simple as asking your neighbour to feed the dog, rounding up your mates and dates and getting ready to party in paradise. Whether you’re in for a day, or planning a long weekend, pack your sunscreen and your dancing shoes because you’re about to have more fun than a kangaroo at a trampoline park!
Venue Hop Like a Pro! You can snag a ticket for one day from only $85, or go all in for the full three-day experience - why wouldn’t you? With main event festival tickets giving you access to all venues and free transport from our accommodation partners, they’re a total steal! Heads up: Ticket prices jump after this Thursday, so get in quick – www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au
Go VIP or Go Home! Why settle for ordinary when you can elevate your adventure? Dive into the ultimate festival experience with exclusive perks like priority entry, a food and beverage package, access to VIP area and the chance to mingle with your favourite artists!
A Town Alive with Music! Several of the 13 venues will be hosting all-ages events and this is your chance to cheer on local talent, so bring the whole crew and experience the magic of live music together - because great music knows no age limits!
Hop On and Rock Out! Enjoy the convenience of free bus services for main event ticket holders. Why not buy a ticket that gives you all-access to the festival and saves your leg power for the dance floor! Check out the website for bus timetable and other FAQ’s – www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au
Need Help Before Showtime? For any general enquiries, including accessibility, ticket inclusions and travel information, feel free to contact the team at info@airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au They’re ready to help make your festival experience seamless!
Already got your tickets? Swing by for your wristbands. Want to join last minute? Grab your tickets here:
Whitsunday Sailing Club
(Downstairs)
Thursday: 10 am – 7 pm
Friday: 9 am – 10 pm
Saturday: 9 am – 10 pm
Sunday: 9 am – 7 pm
Nomads Main Street Pop-up Office
Friday: 11:30 am – 3:30 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am - 3:30 pm
Still reading? It’s time to pack your bags, grab those tickets and unleash your inner rockstar!

The Passport to Airlie showcase which officially kicks of Airlie Beach Festival of Music this Friday, has brought together an electrifying lineup of Australia’s top emerging talent. Here’s a look at the standout finalists, each bringing their own style and energy to the stage:
Tom Neilson, the former front-man of Standby Empire and Queensland Music Award winner, has completely reinvented himself - stepping away from an electronic sound into a sound more based in folk-pop tales of love. Join him on a heartfelt exploration of love, loss and the human experience.
Phoebe Over takes inspiration from the likes of Lily Allen, Jorja Smith and Billie Eilish and the stories she shares through her music have that down-to-earth, real-life quality that makes her music instantly relatable to her growing number of fans.
Space & Ages are a Brisbane based powerhouse with a cheeky twist, proudly dubbing themselves "your mum's favourite band." The four piece have just unleashed a love-drunk indie-rock anthem, ‘Trial & Error’ and if you’re looking for music that’s both catchy and full of attitude, this band is one to watch!
Thirst Trap, the electrifying 5-piece from Australia’s Byron Bay, boast a distinctive sound that blends hip-hop rhythms, heavy rock and reggae infusions, showcasing their versatile musical palette. Their live performances are a must-see, delivering an unforgettable experience that resonates with the energy and dynamism of their unique sound.
Ana, a female fronted symphonic metal band, blend various genres and influences, culminating together in an experience that is suspenseful, mysterious, soulful, and rocking. Their songs are personal. Their songs are yours.
Noah Davis is a former Top 24 contestant on Australian Idol and brings a distinctive vocal style and original arrangements using his loop pedal. As a new upcoming artist with a dream to become a full-time singer songwriter, he believes that the music that he brings to the table is fresh, easy to listen to and has an upbeat vibe.
Hilz has been making music for longer than she can remember and her sound has been described as a fresh and modern take on pop with commanding powerhouse vocals, earwormy melodies and searing “tongue in cheek” lyrics, all augmented by an infectious punk attitude and kick ass stage presence. Hilz will draw you in and make you an instant fan.
Slippery Gypsy brings an edgy rock energy with a wild and uninhibited spirit. Their raw, gritty style channels the classic rock sound while keeping things fresh and unpredictable.
The Corb are the rare combination of a father daughter duo, offering unique harmonies, rhythm and soul. Prayer Corby is a 23 year old singer/songwriter, playing festivals such as Bass in the Grass, Seabreeze Festival and more. Doug Corby is a well-known and established drummer singer with 40 years of experience playing music across the nation.
Get ready for a full-throttle blast of fresh talent! Here’s the kicker - roll into the festival grounds and enter the main tent before 4pm this Friday and you’re in the running to snag a VIP upgrade for you and a mate. That’s right - rockstar access with a food and beverage package to keep the party pumping!
For all the details, hit up www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au – your ticket to the ultimate weekend awaits!

Colonial Palms Motor Inn will transform into a live music paradise for the entire Airlie Beach Festival of Music weekend when it combines its tropical resort style atmosphere with sensational performances from a host of talented musicians.
The stunning deck area provides a beautiful setting for music, and many people will have already attended regular Jazz sessions which happen once a month on a Sunday. But this weekend is the venue’s debut at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.
With chilled out performances starting at 9am on Friday 8 November, Colonial Palms Motor Inn is welcoming many great musicians, including talented songstress Karen Jacobsen.
Performing at 11.30am on Friday 8 November at Colonial Palms Motor Inn, Karen will ignite the stage with powerful vocals and piano-driven songs.
She has released a dozen albums, including the ARIA Awards 2024 nominated Misogyny Opus.
Karen has shared the stage with industry greats like Norah Jones, Neil Sedaka, Jon English, Cyndi Lauper and Christopher Cross, and performed national anthems in front of thousands of people.
Karen has many original songs, but the Airlie Beach Festival of Music attendees will also be thrilled to hear that she will also be bringing songs from her brand-new album ‘I Was a Man’.
Karen said the 10 original songs on the album vary in depth, with themes ranging from equality, love, loss and freedom to listening to our inner voice.
With cinematic and piano driven performances by Karen, the melodies are timeless, and the recordings feature lush and layered female vocals. This body of work explores the intersection of songwriting and spirituality, with many of the songs inspired by and even arriving during Karen's meditation practice.
When asked about the message behind her music, Karen says “I am in the most creative period of my career, and on this record sharing themes of equality, love, loss, freedom and listening to our inner voice.”
Karen’s music is inspirational and as regular performer at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, she knows how to gauge the crowd.
See Karen Jacobsen light up Colonial Palms Motor Inn and other venues around Airlie Beach during this year’s Airlie Beach Festival of Music.
Karen Jacobsen with her powerful vocals, Photo credit: Mackay and Whitsunday Life
The deck at Colonial Palms Motor Inn
Photos sourced

As a first-time venue host at this year’s Airlie Beach Festival of Music, Sidewalk Cafe has numerous musical acts over the weekend, and they are all exceptional.
Known for their delicious breakfasts, friendly service, great coffee, cocktails and laid-back atmosphere, Sidewalk Cafe is an ideal spot to replenish and watch live music over the festival weekend.
Performing for the first time at Sidewalk Cafe during the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is Rebelquin, hitting the stage on Friday 8 November at 9am.
Rebelquin is a local and talented musician who is no stranger to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, having performed numerous times.
She captivates audiences with a distinctive fusion of blues and indie rock.
Rebelquin loves music and it comes through in her performance.
“Music connects us all together and is always there for us through the highs and lows,” she shared.
“If I am going through a rough time, there is always a song that makes me feel good and I know if that singer or songwriter can get through this, so can I, it reminds us we belong and that we are not alone at all.
“This is also what I love about performing, if I can connect to just one person and make them not feel alone, I have done my job.”
Don’t miss Rebelquin performing Sidewalk Cafe’s first gig at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music and stick around for more amazing artists.
Rebelquin performs regularly at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, and this year she is performing at Sidewalk Café. Photo sourced: Facebook

Bec Olsson is a mix of country grit and indie spirit, part small-town hero, part music mentor on a mission to heal. As one half of the powerhouse sister duo Innocent Eve, Bec’s as likely to be found belting out an anthem as she is serving up a backhand and some belly laughs in a pickleball match. She’s all about juicing life for every drop and she does it with her own rules, her own rhythm and a style that’s totally her own.
Bec’s story isn’t just a tale of cancer survival, it’s about showing up, singing out and redefining what it means to live life at full volume. Even as a self-proclaimed lover of solitude, she’s fiercely connected to those around her - with a knack for protecting her peace, setting boundaries and diving into one-on-one conversations that keep her grounded.
When she’s not leading a classroom or lighting up a stage with stories of hard-won truths, Bec carves out space for the simple joys - coffee on the sand, deep dives into a good book, solo sunset walks and a dose of soul-nourishing best friend moments.
Fuelled by a fierce determination to reclaim her life, Bec’s all about crafting a personalised roadmap to wellness, championing a health-promoting lifestyle while trusting her body’s incredible ability to bounce back. For her, it’s not merely about the fight against cancer - it’s about living boldly, sharing wisdom and igniting that same fire in others to take charge of their own journeys.
“I'm passionate about empowering people to take charge of their healing with confidence,” says Bec, reflecting on her mission.
“I also want to leave a legacy of music that brings comfort, but also a trail marked by faith, compassion and love.”
Olsson believes that everyone’s got their own mixtape of experiences - some tracks are upbeat, others a little off-key. Instead of critiquing the song list, she encourages us to hit play and enjoy the entire album of humanity. After all, it’s the unexpected notes that make the journey of life worth listening to.
And what’s on her bucket list? Learning to sail - something about the water, she says, feels like freedom.
Catch Bec and her sister, Rachel at Sorrento this Saturday at 10.30am, followed by Karen Jacobsen, Ben Evolent and Jackson Dunn. It’ll be a morning that celebrates resilience, connection and the beauty of a voice.
Rachel and Bec, Innocent Eve is playing at Sorrento this weekend. Image: Facebook

The Christmas Collective at the Airlie Beach Hotel is the perfect place for your Christmas party this year.
If you have a Christmas function planned, then why not come together for one giant party? The Airlie Beach Hotel can accommodate for a function of any size.
Christmas decorations will flourish, creating a beautiful Christmas theme, this is accompanied by a Christmas buffet with a wide range of hot and cold selections with of course honey-baked ham, roast lamb, roast chicken, roast vegetables, pasta salad, fresh prawns, mango coleslaw and hot and cold dessert options.
In true Airlie Beach Hotel fashion, music will be blasting, and it is brought to you by the Melbourne band, ‘Back To The 70’s & 80’s’, who are full of party spirit and surprises.
‘Back To The 70’s & 80’s’ are regulars at the Airlie Beach Hotel and each time they visit their show is full of colour, laughs and first-class entertainment.
Audiences are treated to parody acts from iconic eras and can expect to hear tunes from ABBA, The Proclaimers, Tina Turner, Village People, Brian Ferry, Queen, Meatloaf, and some great disco tracks.
References back to the past both good and bad will have you chuckling along as you see the band pay homage to the world’s biggest stars through dress up and humour.
The day is full of surprises not just from the music performance, but Christmas Carols will play and even Santa will make an appearance this year and he has some gifts to give out.
Tickets are $79 person, $39 for children 12 and under and are non-refundable.
What: Christmas Collective
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday 7 December
Tickets: $79 per adult, Children 12 & Under $39
Photos supplied

Thursday 7 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: INXS (7pm – 10pm)
Friday 8 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: INXS (2pm – 5:30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Lisa Hunt (7pm – 10pm)
Sorrento: Sophie Rose Raymond (12pm)
Sorrento: Tom Harrington (1:30pm)
Sorrento: Tom Harrington (3pm)
Sidewalk Cafe: Rebelquin (9am)
Sidewalk Cafe: Josiah Samuel (10:15am)
Sidewalk Cafe: Sam McCann (11:30am)
Sidewalk Cafe: Matt Tandy (12:45pm)
Colonial Palms: Mo McMorrow (9am)
Colonial Palms: Innocent Eve (10:15am)
Colonial Palms: Karen Jacobsen (11:30am)
Colonial Palms: Graham Rix (12:45am)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Jackson Dunn (12pm)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Ben Evolent (1:30pm)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Josiah Samuel (3pm)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Tom Harrington (10:45pm)
Saturday 9 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Lisa Hunt (2-5pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Bloom Sings Classic Rock (7-8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Bon But Not Forgotten (8-10pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm – 6pm)
Sorrento: Innocent Eve (10:30pm)
Sorrento: Karen Jacobsen (12pm)
Sorrento: Ben Evolent (1:30pm)
Sorrento: Jackson Dunn (3pm)
Sidewalk Cafe: Dave Helgi Johan (9am)
Sidewalk Cafe: Noah Davis (10:15am)
Sidewalk Cafe: Phoebe Over (11:30am)
Sidewalk Cafe: Matt Tandy (12:45pm)
Colonial Palms: Out of Abingdon (9am)
Colonial Palms: Kate Whelan (10:15am)
Colonial Palms: Tane-Rua (11:30am)
Colonial Palms: The Corbs (12:45pm)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Tom Harrington (10:30am)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Jolly Jingo (12pm)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Chris Shupe (1:30pm)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Sophie Rose Raymond (3pm)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Chris Shupe (10:45pm)
Sunday 10 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Bloom Sings Classic Rock (2pm – 3pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Bon But Not Forgotten (3pm – 5:30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sam McCann (6:30pm – 9:30pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (from 2pm – 6pm)
Sorrento: Mike Elrington (10:30pm)
Sorrento: Andrew Cousins (11:45pm)
Sorrento: Woodbridge (1:00pm)
Sidewalk Cafe: Sophie Rose Raymond (9am)
Sidewalk Cafe: Jolly Jingo (10:15am)
Sidewalk Cafe: Ben Evolent (11:30am)
Sidewalk Cafe: Chris Shupe (8:30am)
Sidewalk Cafe: Dave Helgi Johan (10pm)
Colonial Palms: Matt Tandy (9am)
Colonial Palms: Josiah Samuel (10:15am)
Colonial Palms: Sam McCann (11:30am)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Out of Abingdon (10:30am)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Tane-Rua (11:45am)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Noah Davis (1pm)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Ben Evolent (8:45pm)
KC’s Bar & Grill: Timothy Johnson (10pm)
Tuesday 12 November
Thursday 14 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Ben & Mat Duo (6:30pm – 9:30pm)

November
8-10 Airlie Beach Festival of Music
8-10 36-hour Run Challenge, Whitsunday Martial Arts, from 7pm
9 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
14 Adult Roller Skating Class, PCYC Whitsunday, from 6pm
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Moulin Rouge Soiree, Whisper Gin Bar & Restaurant, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
19 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
21 Adult Roller Skating Class, PCYC Whitsunday, from 6pm
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
24 Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day, Proserpine Golf Club, from 10am
December
1 Carols by the Beach, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 4pm
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
14 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
15 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 2pm & 6.30pm
18 Mada’s Magic Marvels, from 11am and 3pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

On November 5th, the Airlie Beach Hotel will host a special event designed to make you feel like you are part of the racing action of the Melbourne Cup.
While the cup is on, get ready to moonwalk down memory lane and groove to the electrifying beats of two music legends.
You may remember returning band ‘SOULCUTZ,’ and their unforgettable journey on X Factor in 2014, where they made it to the top 12. Get ready to moonwalk down memory lane as these musical legends are back at the Airlie Beach Hotel to pay tribute to the King of Pop, Michael Jackson, and today’s pop sensation, Bruno Mars, to get you ready for the fantastic atmosphere of the Melbourne Cup.
Experience the magic of Michael Jackson’s timeless classics like “Billie Jean,” “Thriller,” and “Smooth Criminal” which SOULCUTZ will bring to life throughout the day's duration.
From the iconic dance moves to the signature fashion, it’s a journey back in time that will leave you mesmerised.
SOULCUTZ don't, stop there however, and encourage you to get your dancing shoes ready as they transition to the contemporary hits of Bruno Mars. With chart-toppers such as “Uptown Funk,” “24K Magic,” and “Just the Way You Are,” to help you get grooving to the latest pop sensations.
Soulcutz's performance kicks off at 10am, and there’s a drink package included, so be sure to arrive early!
After being taken through the times by SOULCUTZ, get ready for soul music songstress Lisa Hunt’s ‘Forever Soul’ show. Lisa will grace the stage with her powerful voice and heartfelt performances, soothing your spirit with her timeless soul tunes. But that’s not all—she’ll also have you on your feet, dancing and grooving to the irresistible rhythms to make your day even more enjoyable.
If the live music isn't enough to get you in the Melbourne Cup spirit, then the Airlie Beach Hotel also has a variety of sweeps, free raffles, phantom calls, party games, fashions of the footpaths and load of prizes and surprises throughout the day to keep you entertained.
If you are worried about getting to and from the venue, Airlie Beach Hotel has you covered providing two courtesy buses which will be running from 9 am. Additionally, the TAB will open at 8 am so you can place all your bets nice and early.
Head on down to the Airlie Beach Hotel to celebrate the Melbourne Cup in style!
WHAT: Melbourne Cup Special Event
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Tuesday 5th November 2024
Tickets: Purchase tickets at Whitsunday Tickets: https://www.whitsundaytickets.com.au/