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Get ready to “Twist & Shout” as Beatlemania On Tour brings its internationally acclaimed production to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Sunday 26th April 2026 at 7.30pm, for one night only. Since its launch in 2009, the Australian-based show has built a formidable global reputation, selling out performances across North America, Europe, South Africa, the Middle East, Asia and New Zealand. After a decade away from Australia’s east coast, the production is now returning with a high-energy tribute to the music that defined a generation. Audiences can expect a two-hour audio-visual spectacular featuring more than 40 of the greatest hits by The Beatles, performed live in their original keys with meticulous attention to detail. Replica costumes, period instruments and theatrical lighting combine to recreate the look and sound of the 1960s, capturing the spirit of the world’s most influential band. The setlist reads like a greatest-hits time capsule, including classics such as Hey Jude, All You Need Is Love, Yellow Submarine, Let It Be, Twist & Shout, Yesterday, Come Together, Get Back, Help!, Eleanor Rigby and Here Comes the Sun, among many others. Behind the production is a cast of seasoned musicians, including Zachary Coombs, who performs the role of John Lennon. Coombs’ connection to the music runs deeper than most. Named after Zak Starkey, son of Ringo Starr, he grew up in a musical household influenced by jazz, rock and 90s pop. He first picked up the guitar as a teenager before discovering The Beatles at 15 after receiving their 1 compilation album. “I fell in love with every single song,” Coombs recalled, describing the moment as a turning point that led him to explore the band’s entire catalogue. After years touring internationally as a solo cruise ship performer, Coombs joined Beatlemania in 2014, later stepping into the role of John Lennon. He has also performed as Paul McCartney and George Harrison in earlier productions, drawing on what he describes as “the magic within the music itself.” He says the key to portraying Lennon lies in understanding the balance of musicianship and attitude. “If the musicians are having fun on stage, it becomes infectious,” Coombes said. The show also features fellow performers portraying Ringo Starr and the rest of the iconic line-up, with attention to every musical and visual detail. For Coombs and the cast, the appeal of Beatles music lies in its universality, with songs built on themes of love, peace and connection that continue to resonate across generations. “This is more than a concert,” organisers say. “It’s a celebration of music history.” Tickets are available now. WHAT: Beatlemania On Tour WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre WHEN: Sunday 26th April, 7.30pm CAPTION: Since its launch in 2009, the Australian-based show has built a formidable global reputation, selling out performances across North America, Europe, South Africa, the Middle East, Asia and New Zealand. Photo supplied
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Airlie Beach is set to come alive with the unmistakable sound of one of Australia’s most beloved musical legacies, as acclaimed tribute artist Mike Vee brings his celebrated Whispering Jack Show to the Whitsundays for two special performances this April. For locals and visitors alike, this is a rare opportunity to experience the magic of John Farnham’s music in a relaxed, coastal setting. Mike Vee has spent nearly two decades perfecting his tribute to Farnham, earning national recognition for his powerful voice and authentic stage presence. Many will remember his standout appearance on Australia’s Got Talent, where he was praised as “the closest I’ve heard to John.” Backed by a dynamic seven-piece band, Vee delivers a high-energy performance that captures the spirit and emotion of Farnham’s iconic catalogue. The Airlie Beach shows promise more than just music — they’re a celebration of Australian culture and nostalgia. Audiences can expect all the classics, from Age of Reason and Pressure Down to A Touch of Paradise and the timeless anthem You’re the Voice. The 2025 production also introduces a refreshed playlist and new storytelling elements, offering deeper insight into Farnham’s remarkable career. Bringing an event of this calibre to Airlie Beach highlights the region’s growing reputation as a hub for live entertainment. It’s the kind of show that invites the whole community to come together — whether you’re a lifelong Farnham fan or simply looking for a great afternoon out. With its uplifting atmosphere and singalong favourites, this is more than a concert — it’s a shared experience. Pack a chair, bring some friends, and get ready to relive the soundtrack of a generation right here in Airlie Beach. WHAT: The Whispering Jack Show – A Tribute to the Music of John Farnham, 2 FREE SHOWS WHEN: Saturday April 18 & Sunday April 19, 2:00pm – 5:30pm WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel Captions Photo sourced
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Lead singer-songwriter and one half of Australian pop duo Bachelor Girl, Tania Doko will join the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival from 3–7 June 2026, bringing her distinctive voice and songwriting expertise to Airlie Beach. Tania joins Christine Anu, Mark Sholtez, Francesca de Valence, and Karen Jacobsen as they come together to collaborate on new works, host a songwriting workshop for developing artists, and a live performance at Whitsunday Sailing Club. Known for her dynamic and versatile vocals, Tania was voted by the public into the top 300 of Triple M's Greatest Singers of All Time list. Best known as one half of Bachelor Girl alongside musician and arranger James Roche, Tania rose to international prominence with the hit single Buses and Trains. The track became one of Australia’s most recognisable pop songs, achieving Top 10 chart success in Australia and New Zealand, earning multiple ARIA nominations, and is listed as one of most played Australian compositions on Radio Down Under over the last 20 years. Bachelor Girl’s double platinum, ARIA Award-winning debut album produced a string of hits including Treat Me Good, Permission to Shine, and Buses and Trains, cementing Tania’s place as a defining voice in Australian pop music. “Tania’s career spans both major commercial success and creative collaboration with some of the biggest names in the industry, which makes her an incredible mentor for our Songwriting Summit participants”, said festival co-founder Francesca de Valence. This is incredibly exciting news for a festival that is shaping up to be spectacular. WHAT: Whitsunday Songwriters Festival WHERE: Airlie Beach WHEN: 3rd - 7th June Captions Photo supplied
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Crochet and Conversation 9am Drop in for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation with a friendly group of Northern Beaches locals at the Beachfront Bar and Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re an experienced crafter, a beginner, or simply keen to enjoy a chat over coffee. Bring your own crochet tools or borrow from the communal yarn box. The gathering focuses on connection, creativity and sharing experiences, with participants sometimes working on community projects or their own creations. There’s no need to RSVP — just look for the table with the yarn and come along. Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia Esplanade. Community Jam At Family Flow 6pm Families are invited to head along to the Community Jam at Friday Flow for an afternoon of fun, music, and family friendly activities. Children can enjoy free activities including the Gymnastics Airtrack, giving them the chance to bounce, tumble and burn off some energy. Live music from Jamesley will set the atmosphere, creating a relaxed community vibe for the evening. Food and drinks will also be available, making it a great opportunity to catch up with friends, bring the family along, and enjoy a lively local gathering. Everyone is welcome to come along and join in the fun. Blue Water Quay, Mackay Saturday 11th April Monthly Breast Cancer Support Group 10am The Mackay Breast Cancer Support Group invites breast cancer patients and survivors at any stage to join their monthly support meeting. The session runs from 10:00am to 12:00pm in the Botanical Gardens Meeting Room, with roadside parking along Lagoon Street. The morning includes introductions, a confidential sharing and support session, and morning tea with coffee, tea, and water provided. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small share plate and, optionally, wear something pink. This is a free event. To join, RSVP by clicking “Going” and mark your diary. Botanical Gardens Meeting Room True Street Cars meet – Rural View 6pm Car enthusiasts are invited to the next True Street Cars meet at Rural View, gathering outside The Cheesecake Shop and the McDonald’s car park. Attendees are encouraged to bring their cars, catch up with fellow enthusiasts and enjoy the atmosphere. Organisers are reminding everyone to be respectful, as surrounding businesses will still be operating, including Woolworths which remains open until 6pm. Visitors are asked to be mindful of customers and staff while attending. The meet aims to bring the local car community together for another strong turnout and an enjoyable evening. Rural View, outside The Cheesecake Shop / McDonald’s car park Sunday 12th April Tropical Treats and Orchard Tour 11am The Rare Fruit Club invites anyone interested in discovering and tasting rare tropical fruits to join their April meeting from 11am to 3pm. The session will be held at a property in Mount Martin in the Pioneer Valley, featuring an orchard tour led by the host. Attendees can also take part in a raffle with garden-related prizes and bid on member-propagated plants at auction. For the address and directions, contact Kaye on 4947 5890 or Julie on 0429 002 018. Mount Martin, Pioneer Valley – contact for further details Monday 13th April Free School Holiday Lifesavers Program 11am The NextGen Lifesavers Program returns to SuperKids Aquatic Indoor Swim School, running over three consecutive days from Monday, 13 April, 11am to 1pm. This program teaches young people aged 8–15 water safety, lifesaving skills, and confidence in the pool. Participants must be able to swim 10 metres unassisted and be comfortable in water 1.2 metres deep. Open to the public, not just swim school members, the sessions are delivered by the SuperKids Aquatic Mackay team in collaboration with Royal Lifesaving Queensland. To secure a spot, call 0490 834 345. 109 Paradise Street, Mackay Tuesday 14th April Walk n Talk Book Club in the Gardens 8am The Botanic Gardens Book Club invites book lovers to combine reading, gentle walks, and social connection in the beautiful gardens. Members meet fortnightly to discuss a new title, enjoy light exercise, and stay for coffee and conversation. Each month, participants pick up a book at the start, share thoughts mid-month during a walk, and review the title at the end while discovering the next read. Meetings are held in the Botanic Gardens Meeting Room (opposite the café) on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, February to November. Participants should bring sensible walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle. To join or find out more, contact the Libraries on 4961 9387 to book a spot. Botanic Gardens Meeting Room (opposite the cafe) Thursday 16th April Coastal Kids – Dunes Harbour Beach School Holiday Event 9am Coastal Kids is back at Dunes Harbour Beach for a free, family-friendly school holiday event. On Thursday, 16 April, from 9 AM to 12 PM, families can enjoy outdoor games, kids’ face painting, giveaways, and the ever-popular Aussie sausage sizzle. HitFM’s Jake will be broadcasting live from the event, capturing all the excitement. Parents can grab a free coffee while the kids play. The event is held at Dunes Harbour Beach on Sol Drive, next to the Community Square. Join the fun, make new memories, and connect with your community at this fantastic free local event, proudly presented by Urbex. Dunes Harbour Beach
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Looking for activities to get yourself in the festive spirit this December?
Here are all the events you need to attend to get Christmas ready!
• CHRISTMAS LIGHTS COMPETITION– enter by 15th December 2024.
• BOWEN CHRISTMAS STREET PARTY – Friday 29 November, Bowen Town Centre, 5pm - 9pm
• MURROONA GARDENS CHRISTMAS CAROLS – Saturday 7 December, Murroona Gardens, 6pm
Library Activities:
All four of our regional libraries - Bowen, Collinsville, Cannonvale, and Proserpine - invite you to join in a week of daily self-led Christmas craft activities.
• 16 - 20 December | 9:00am - 4:30pm SELF LED CRAFT ACTIVITIES No booking required
Proserpine Entertainment Centre:
Live Shows
ANDREWS & BING CHRISTMAS SWING
Friday 6 December 11am
TONI CHILDS: A RETROSPECTIVE
Saturday 14 December, 7.30pm
Sunday 15 December 2pm
CHRISTMAS ACTUALLY: The music of love actually live on stage 7.30pm
Wednesday 18 December 11am & 3pm
MADA’S MAGIC MARVELS
Cinema
7-9 December GLADIATOR II
7-9 December WICKED
19 December - 1 January MOANA 2
19-24 December RED ONE
26 December - 8 January SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 Cinema
Many people kick off the festive season by settling in to watch Love Actually—a beloved holiday tradition. But this year, why not elevate the experience with Christmas, Actually.
Join the Proserpine Entertainment Centre for a sensational live performance of your favourite tunes from the iconic Love Actually soundtrack. This festive celebration is set to bring the magic of the holiday season to life with a rockstar band featuring some of Australia’s top musicians and vocalists, including Joshua Robson (Phantom of the Opera), Alisha Todd (Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves), and Joseph Naim (Come From Away, The TEN Tenors).
Led by Australian cabaret icon Libby O’Donovan OAM, this all-star cast will deliver the timeless hits from the beloved holiday classic Love Actually, infused with plenty of charm, comedy, and holiday cheer. It's the perfect way to make your Christmas extra special!
Bursting with nativity lobsters, cinnamon sticks and endless fun, Christmas Actually is the ultimate silly-season starter.
Tickets are selling fast, so don't miss out! Be sure to secure your spot by calling the friendly team at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on 0494 504 05.
What: Christmas Actually?
When: Saturday 14th December, 7:30pm & Sunday 15th December, 2pm.
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
Christmas Actually is coming to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre this December!
The Airlie Beach Hotel invites you to celebrate the holiday season with its mouthwatering Christmas Lunch buffet this Saturday, 7 December, from 12pm to 2:30pm. This festive feast promises a delicious variety of hot and cold dishes to suit every palate.
The Hot Selection includes classic favourites like honey-baked ham with honey mustard sauce, roast lamb with rosemary gravy, and roast chicken pieces with gravy. Indulge in comforting sides such as broccoli and cheese macaroni, garlic and rosemary roasted potatoes, minted steamed vegetables, and freshly baked bread rolls. For dessert, savour traditional Christmas pudding with custard or chocolate cherry pudding.
The Cold Selection offers creamy pasta and smoked potato salads, fresh prawns, curried mango coleslaw, and sweet treats like pavlova, mango and macadamia cheesecake, brandy snaps, ice cream with toppings, and assorted lollies.
Make this Christmas memorable with a delectable meal at the Airlie Beach Hotel!
This non-alcoholic christmas punch recipe is the perfect holiday drink. It can be made in a big batch for a christmas party or for 1.
If you're hunting for an easy, delicious non-alcoholic Christmas punch, you've found it. Planning a holiday event can be busy enough without having the additional task of preparing and serving drinks, so why not whip this up in advance and your guests can serve themselves!
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups Low sugar cranberry juice
• 1 cup Orange juice
• 1 cup Pineapple juice
• 2 cups Sparkling apple juice or cider *see notes for low sugar option
• 1 cup Ginger ale
• Orange slices, cranberries, pomegranate seeds and/or cherries for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Mix cranberry, orange and pineapple juice in a punch bowl or large jug.
2. Add sparkling apple juice/cider and ginger ale and mix gently.
3. When you're ready to serve, add ice and fruit of your choice to garnish.
Notes: For a lower sugar option, use sparkling water or sugar free lemonade instead of sparkling apple juice.
Mindfulmocktail.com
Prep Cook Serves
20m 05m 6
As Beyoncé famously says, "I don’t think you’re ready for this jelly!" And trust me, you’ll want to be. These mini-Christmas pudding jellies are made with a surprisingly delicious chocolate jelly (yes, it sounds unusual, but it works!) and are topped with a luscious white chocolate drizzle. To add the perfect festive touch, they’re decorated with chopped spearmint lolly leaves and M&M’s Minis, making them the cutest individual Christmas desserts ever!
Ingredients (9)
• 125ml (1/2 cup) water
• 1 tbsp gelatine powder
• 110g (1/2 cups) caster sugar
• 250ml (1 cup) water
• 100g dark chocolate, chopped
• 6 Arnott’s Choc Ripple biscuits
• 50g white chocolate, melted
• Spearmint leaf lollies, chopped, to decorate
• Red M&M’s Minis, to decorate
• Step 1
Place the 125ml (1/2 cup) water in a small bowl. Sprinkle with the gelatine and stir until well combined. Place the sugar and 250ml (1 cup) water in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until the sugar dissolves. Bring to the boil then remove from heat. Add the chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
• Step 2
Pour the gelatine mixture over the warm chocolate mixture. Stir until the gelatine dissolves. Place in the fridge, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until slightly thickened.
• Step 3
Stir the mixture until smooth. Place a 6-hole 100ml (7cm diameter) silicone dome mould on a baking tray. Divide the mixture evenly among the holes. Place a biscuit on top of each one. Place in the fridge for 6 hours or overnight until set.
• Step 4
Gently loosen each jelly from the mould by pulling it away from the edges. Place a serving plate or board larger than the dome mould on top and flip so the mould is upside down on top of the plate or board. Gently squeeze each mould to release the jellies.
• Step 5
Drizzle a little white chocolate over each jelly then top with spearmint leaves and M&M’s to decorate.
www.taste.com.au
Prepare to rock, roll and welcome the new year like never before with an ultimate New Year’s Eve celebration at the Airlie Beach Hotel!
To round off 2024 in style, one of the hottest venues along the Whitsunday coastline is gearing up to host an unforgettable night with the Australian INXS Show - a fully immersive, “Wembley-style” tribute to one of the greatest rock bands of all time, headlining the celebrations.
Hold onto to your drumsticks because this epic event will take you on a four-hour journey through the iconic hits of INXS, Aussie rock anthems, and stadium rock classics, all set to a breathtaking original video show.
Fronted by the sensational Dellacoma Rio, whose uncanny portrayal of Michael Hutchence has captivated audiences worldwide, the Australian INXS Show promises an electrifying performance that must be seen to be believed.
With Dellacoma at the helm, the show delivers an authentic six-piece lineup, paying tribute to INXS in a way that will make you feel like you’re at a live INXS concert! Following on from an exhilarating world tour to locations including Dubai, Hawaii, and Singapore, the Melbourne-based band have become an international treasure celebrated for staging a unique, “Australian Made” rock experience for audiences to enjoy.
Paired with the outstanding talents of INXS, its clear this isn’t just any New Year’s Eve event! The night kicks off with a full INXS set, followed by the Aussie Rock Anthem Show, and culminates in a massive Stadium Rock finale. But that’s not all! There will be surprise special guest performers joining Dellacoma Rio on stage to elevate the experience, and during the break, get into the party vibe with the high-energy sounds of GEED UP!
And what's a NYE celebration without a perfect view of the fireworks? The Airlie Beach Hotel offers the best vantage point on the foreshore, so you can enjoy the spectacular fireworks display as you ring in the new year.
Seated tickets are nearly sold out, however there are still plenty of standing tickets available if you're ready to join the party and dance the night away. Don’t miss out on the biggest rock event of the year and grab your tickets for just $79 from Whitsunday Tickets.
Make your NYE 2024 unforgettable at the Airlie Beach Hotel – where the music is loud, the atmosphere is electric, and the memories will last a lifetime!
What: NYE 2024 “Australian INXS Show” plus Rock Anthem Shows and Special Guests!
When: Tuesday 31 December, 6pm.
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel.
Friday 6 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers(7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Live Music (4pm–8pm)
Saturday 7 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Xmas Party Buffet (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Live Music (4pm–8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm)Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm–6pm)
Sunday 8 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: 70s & 80s Cabaret Show (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sam McCann (6:30pm–9.30pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm-6pm)
Thursday 12 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm–9.30pm)
Embrace the true magic and spirit of the silly season this Sunday with the wonderfully festive and highly anticipated Proserpine Community Christmas Market!
A celebrated community event, the market will be held on Sunday 8 December from 8:30am through to 12:30pm at Proserpine’s Cyclone Shelter and promises attendees a world of holiday cheer for both the immediate and wider community to enjoy.
A delightful abundance of holiday treats, handmade crafts and family-friendly activities will be on offer to showcase a plethora of locally made products, with over seventy stall holders offering everything from handcrafted gifts and decorations to tasty indulgences.
Attendees will also be treated to a lively atmosphere created by the talents of the Joy Chimers and other young, local pianists, and what is a Christmas market without a visit from the big man himself? Santa will grace the shelter from 11am to 12pm to spread plenty of cheer, and joy to all.
“Christmas is all about outdoor fun, great food, and spending time with loved ones, all whilst supporting small local businesses. We’re excited to bring that spirit to life with this year’s Christmas market,” said Tarnia Patton, Coordinator of the Proserpine Community Market.
Free balloon animals, wildlife encounters, and facepainting will also be available throughout the event with organisers promising they’ll be something for everyone to enjoy from curating thoughtful gifts to soaking up the cheerful atmosphere.
What: Proserpine Community Christmas Market.
When: Sunday 8 December 8:30am to 12:30pm.
Where: Proserpine’s Cyclone Shelter.
December
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
6 Toni Childs: A Retrospective, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
7 Airlie Beach parkrun’s 9th Anniversary, from 7am
7 Women in Boating – On the Reef, Coral Sea Marina, The Lookout Lounge, from 5:30pm
8 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
8 Proserpine Community Christmas Market, Proserpine Cyclone Shelter, from 8:30am
11 FREE Adult Christmas Craft Workshop, Bowen Library, from 10am
12 FREE Adult Christmas Craft Workshop, Collinsville Library, from 10am
12 FREE Adult Christmas Craft Workshop, Proserpine Library, from 10am
13 FREE Adult Christmas Craft Workshop, Cannonvale Library, from 10am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
14 Book Launch, Beach Book Boutique, Airlie Beach, from 11am
14 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
15 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
15 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 2pm & 6.30pm
18 Mada’s Magic Marvels, from 11am and 3pm
22 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
30 Dune Rats, Magnums Airlie Beach, from 7:30pm
30 New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Airlie Beach Foreshore, Bowen Foreshore, & Collinsville Showgrounds, from 8:30pm
The joy and wonder of the festive season are set to shine brightly this Saturday, 7 December, as Murroona Gardens hosts its much-anticipated 2024 Community Christmas Carols.
Held at the Murroona Gardens Wellness Centre in West Lane, Bowen, the event promises an enchanting evening of carols, community spirit, and holiday cheer. Families, friends, and locals are invited to come together to celebrate the season in a magical atmosphere filled with music, fun activities, and festive treats.
Adding to the excitement is the Christmas Carols Raffle, offering an assortment of fantastic prizes. Tickets are only $2 each or three for $5, with proceeds supporting efforts to make Christmas extra special across the Murroona Gardens care community.
Tickets are available at several local businesses, including Murroona Gardens Admin, Bowen Meat Supply, BiRite, and more. The raffle will be drawn during the event, so don’t miss your chance to win while giving back to the community.
Bring your holiday joy and join the celebration of the season. With festive music, a warm community atmosphere, and the magic of Christmas in the air, this year’s event promises to be one of Murroona Gardens’ most memorable yet.
What: Murroona Gardens Community Christmas Carols
When: Saturday 7 December, 6pm
Where: Murroona Gardens Wellness Centre, West Lane, Bowen
More Information: Contact Sally at pa@murroona.com.au
The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors had the opportunity last week to join Cherene from Driftwood Tours on a 3-hour Airlie Highlights tour. On her clean, comfortable bus, the Ambassadors were treated to a behind-the-scenes look at some of the hidden gems in the Airlie Beach area that Cherene introduces to cruise ship guests.
A highlight of the day was the stunning vista and photo ops offered by the lounge at Shute Harbour Terminal. The group also discovered some tucked-away spots at Shute Haven, where they enjoyed panoramic views of the islands. Cherene then led the group to the small reserve by the water at Mandalay, surrounded by mangroves, towering hoop pines, and a refreshing breeze. And to everyone's delight, they stumbled upon a surprise outdoor chapel—who knew! The afternoon wrapped up with a visit to the highest point on Seaview Drive, offering more breathtaking views and perfect photo opportunities of Airlie Beach and Coral Sea Marina.
Cherene, with her passion for the Whitsundays history, flora, and fauna, provided fascinating commentary throughout the tour. Even locals who had lived in The Whitsundays for years discovered some new and surprising facts.
Contributed by Cait Fleming, Industry Development & Trade Manager, Tourism Whitsundays on behalf of the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors
Cruise Ship Ambassadors on Driftwood Tour
The Whitsundays isn’t just about beautiful beaches and islands – it’s also home to a fascinating history, and you can dive into it at the region's local museums. Each one tells a unique story, from the traditions of the First Nations peoples to the area's industrial past and wartime history.
Start with the Proserpine Historical Museum, right in the heart of Proserpine. Here, you'll learn about the region’s sugar cane and cattle industries, as well as the lives of the Juru, Gia, Bira, and Ngaro peoples. You can also explore exhibits about the area's early settlers, gold mining, and the impact of World War II. Kids will enjoy the interactive activities, and there’s even a small theatre showing films about local history.
If you're heading to Collinsville, don't miss the Collinsville Coalface Experience. This hands-on museum takes you through the history of coal mining, letting you explore what life was like for the miners and how coal shaped the region.
Over in Bowen, the Bowen Historical Society & Museum is a must-see. Established in 1963, this museum has grown to be well known and loved and displays Aboriginal, pioneer and local history, giving you a real sense of what life was like for early settlers.
And for something a bit different, check out the Catalina Interpretive Centre at Front Beach, in Bowen. It honours the area where in World War II, Catalinas were maintained and serviced before being redeployed and there is also information about Bowen’s involvement in the war.
These museums are a great way to learn more about The Whitsundays and its colourful history – a perfect addition to any trip!
Contributed by Tourism Whitsundays
Coalface Experience museum
The Moulin Rouge Soirée, hosted at Whisper Restaurant & Gin Bar in Airlie Beach, was a resounding success, raising $10,322 to support the construction of staff and nursing quarters at the Arthur Wina Memorial Hospital in Zambia.
The sold-out cocktail party and cabaret show, held on Friday, 15 November, welcomed 50 guests who enjoyed a dazzling performance by Georgia Darcy, a cabaret artist from Victoria.
Sandy Clark, who has been fundraising for the hospital through the Dignity Zambia initiative, shared her gratitude for the community’s ongoing support.
“The Whitsundays community has played a major role in fundraising for the hospital over the past five years and now 3,164 beautiful babies have been born with not a single loss of a birthing mother,” she said.
The soirée was the first of four planned events aimed at raising money to support the hospital in rural Zambia, which provides care for vulnerable birthing mothers. Upcoming fundraisers include another event in Airlie Beach in February, one in Adelaide in March, and a special event in Zambia in April.
The evening’s success was made possible by the contributions of local volunteers, including Fiona Donellan, Shirley Lethlean, Melissa Szalai, Suzanne Pelley, Sharon Ashman, Heather Sutton, Michael Thomas, and auctioneer Wayne Singleton of Sotheby’s Whitsundays. Special thanks also went to Amy from Whisper Restaurant & Gin Bar and Amy from Airlie Events for their professionalism in bringing the soirée to life.
With the Whitsundays community rallying behind this cause, the project to build new quarters for hospital staff is gaining vital momentum. For more information about upcoming events or to donate to the cause, keep an eye out for updates from the Dignity Zambia fundraising team.
Photos supplied
The Mackay Festivals team are calling on locals to submit their iconic artwork design to become the front cover of the 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts program.
This artwork will be the face of the festival and will be showcased around the wider Mackay region in all shapes and sizes.
The winner of the competition will receive a $1000 cash prize and two VIP tickets to the official program launch event.
Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to be championing local art and artists as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts.
“The call is going out to artists, graphic designers, freelance creators, hobbyists, beginners and everyone in between – we want to see something iconic and unique,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The theme this year is ‘Uniquely Yours, Distinctively Ours – celebrating Mackay and all its uniqueness together’,” he said.
“The judges will be looking for an artwork that celebrates the Mackay region and all that makes it special.
“But the thing about our region is that what makes it special to one person, may be completely different for another.
“We all have something that we celebrate about our home, whether that’s our natural wonders, our community, our artistic and cultural heritage or our opportunities through industry and our economy.
“It’s a big ask, but we want to see that uniqueness celebrated and expressed in an artwork and we are really excited to see what our creative residents deliver.
“We have no doubt that this festival program will be a piece of art in its own right and that it will be a collectors’ item.”
Festival and Events Coordinator Phoebe Short said the Mackay Festival of Arts program design competition began in 2024 as another way to celebrate arts and culture in our region.
“We wanted our program to be a canvas to showcase amazing local talent and creativity,” Ms Short said.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for an artist to receive extensive exposure on a medium that champions art, expression and creativeness,” she said.
For design requirements, terms and conditions and to apply, visit themecc.com.au/designcomp
Applications close on Sunday, December 15, 2024.
The Festivals and Events Team will contact each applicant once all submissions have been reviewed by the judging panel on December 17, 2024. The panel’s artwork selection will then go to public vote where the winner will be chosen by the community and announced in the New Year.
Should you have any queries, please contact the team on 4961 9777.
For those ‘once-a-year’ bakers, the thought of compiling festive food can be overwhelming.
But, fear not!
Fun festivity doesn’t need to be fiddly.
Check out these melted snowman cookies. Simply purchase pre-made cookies, dip the top in melted white chocolate and pop your marshmallow snowman on top. You can purchase an edible pen decorator in the baking section of your supermarket.
TIP: It’s easier to draw the snowman faces before sticking the marshmallow onto the chocolate.
Photo credit: Amanda Wright
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