
IMPULSE is set to light up Magnums with after-dark cabaret this New Year season. Airlie Beach is in for a bold New Year treat as IMPULSE brings a high-energy cabaret experience to Magnums Hotel, transforming the popular venue into a fully seated theatre for a limited run of shows. From the team that brought you NOSTALGIA, the eight-strong cast members have been rehearsing for the last six months to present this new and exciting cabaret show. With an atmosphere inspired by late-night glamour and burlesque flair, IMPULSE promises a fast-paced evening of powerhouse performance, seductive choreography, and crowd-pleasing entertainment designed for an adult audience looking for something different after dark. IMPULSE is going to be fast-paced, filled with back-to-back cabaret, burlesque and crowd moments, so the audience is constantly getting something new. Hosted at Magnums IMPULSE offers a fully indoor, seated theatre-style event offering air-conditioned comfort, front-row VIP tables with grazing boxes, and a private bar open throughout the show, designed for relaxed viewing, easy drinks, and a premium guest experience. The show runs for three nights only on December 30, January 1 and January 2, with doors opening ahead of the 7.30pm start time. With seating limited each night, organisers encourage locals and visitors to secure tickets online to avoid missing out. IMPULSE will be staged at Magnums Hotel, Airlie Beach. Tickets are available now via the event’s online booking link. https://www.universe.com/events/impulse-cabaret-show-tickets-1PTY0J
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Wednesday 24 December Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm) KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm) Friday 26 December Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Simon Briley (4pm - 8pm) Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm) KC's: Josiah (from 8pm) Saturday 27 December Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 7.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: DJ Sugarlips (1pm - 5pm) Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm) Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm) KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm) Sunday 28 December Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 7.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm) Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Pianoman (1pm - 5pm) Sorrento: Simon Briley (4pm - 7pm) KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm) Monday 29 December Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm) Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm) KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
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December 24 Members Christmas Eve Drinks, Club Whitsunday, 2pm - 5pm **25 Christmas Day ** **26 Boxing Day ** 28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am **31 New Year’s Eve ** February 1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm March 22 The UK Rod Stewart Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm May 1 SPOT, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm - 12.50pm 13 Luke Kidgell - Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9pm 31 Creedence Clearwater Collective, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm June 26 Echoes of Pink Floyd - 60 Years of Pink Floyd, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 8pm - 10.45pm July 25 - 26 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival August 7 Room on the Broom, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 1pm - 1.55pm 9 A Taste of Ireland, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 4pm - 6pm September 11 - 12 White on Whitsunday Long Lunch, Whitehaven Beach, from 8am
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With the New Year fast approaching, Airlie Beach Hotel is gearing up to deliver a night you won’t forget. Prepare to dance, laugh, and celebrate your way into the new year with an unforgettable performance packed with music, lights, and dazzling showmanship. Brace yourself for a fully choreographed high-end theatrical show with costumes, displays and visual mania. The New Year’s Eve celebration will be an exhilarating event split into four distinct parts, each dedicated to a different era or theme: Part 1: The 70s (7:00 pm – 7:50 pm) The night will kick off with an explosive set from Big City Beat, an 11-piece party ensemble known for their energetic performances and stunning costumes. Expect to be transported back to the 70s with classic hits brought to life through sizzling choreography and a captivating brass section. Part 2: The 80s (8:20 pm – 9:10 pm) Big City Beat will continue the journey through time with a vibrant 80s set, featuring all the unforgettable anthems from this iconic decade. Their dynamic show combines music, visuals, and choreography to keep you dancing all night. Part 3: The 90s (9:40 pm – 10:30 pm) Next, the band will take you through the 90s with another high-energy performance packed with party favourites. With a fully choreographed theatrical show enhanced by lights and visual effects, this set promises something for everyone. Part 4: The Australian Bruno Mars Show (11pm - MIDNIGHT) As the countdown to midnight begins, get ready for the electrifying Australian Bruno Mars Show. This act goes beyond just Bruno Mars’ biggest hits, paying tribute to the legendary artists who inspired him - including Michael Jackson, Prince, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, James Brown, and Justin Timberlake. Experience a spectacular fusion of funk, soul, pop, and R&B as you welcome the new year in style. With so much talent, joy, and brilliance on display, Airlie Beach Hotel promises a New Year’s Eve celebration you simply can’t miss. WHAT: New Year's Eve Show WHEN: December 31st, 7pm - MIDNIGHT WHERE: The Airlie Beach Hotel
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October
5 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
5 Adopt-A-Dog-Day, Pets Domain Bowen, from 10am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
10 Adult Roller Skating Class, PCYC Whitsunday, from 6pm
10-13 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Grand Opening
10-15 The Songwriters Festival
11 Junior Cricket Come & Try Afternoon, Proserpine Junior Cricket Grounds from 4pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
11 Rogue Traders, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sowing The Seeds Of Wellbeing, Bowen Community Garden, from 8am
12 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
12 Bowen Cup, Bowen Turf Club, from 11am
13 Pirates Open Day, Port Denison Sailing Club, from 9am
14 Whitsunday Jobs Fair, Proserpine High School, from 1pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
17 Adult Roller Skating Class, PCYC Whitsunday, from 6pm
19 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
19 Tourism Awards, Daydream Island, from 5.30pm
26 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
31 Adult Roller Skating Class, PCYC Whitsunday, from 6pm
November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
1 Vika and Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
2 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
7 Adult Roller Skating Class, PCYC Whitsunday, from 6pm
9 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
14 Adult Roller Skating Class, PCYC Whitsunday, from 6pm
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, 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
21 Adult Roller Skating Class, PCYC Whitsunday, from 6pm
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
December
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
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Young anglers get ready for Kids Fishing Day at Lake Proserpine, which is back for its second year. Promised to be a perfect opportunity for kids to learn fishing tips and tricks, participants can enjoy exciting workshops and try their hand at the Barra Cash Dash.
Last year 250 youngsters turned up to the day, and they expect numbers to be even higher this year with 42 pre-bookings already made by families in the community.
The day starts at 9am, and the organisers have 20 fishing rod sets to give away as well as lots of free ice cream and lots more giveaways. The day has some great sponsors including, Bowen Tackle World, BCF and Sunwater.
The kids will also get the opportunity to release the next generation of Barramundi, with the organisers providing Barramundi Fingerlings.
Local fishing clinic operator, Mudskippa, will also be set up with a range of fishing education and activity stations, offering his best fishing tips and tricks followed by a casting competition at 10:30am.
Craig Turner, Director, Commercial Businesses showed his excitement for the day:
“We've got lots of raffles and lots of prizes, we've got 140 lures to give away!
“What we want to do is make it an annual event where families can come, kids can come.
“It’s also about building the next generation of Fisher people.”
Come cast a line and have a good time!
What: Kids Fishing Day
Where: Lake Proserpine
When: 5th October 2024
Kids Fishing Day Lake Proserpine

Get ready to cast your line and reel in the prize of a lifetime with the Barra Cash Dash! The all-new community event is set to be fin-tastic.
The initiative is to help drive more tourism to the region, as well as get budding anglers off the couch and onto the lure.
Craig Turner, Director of Commercial Business at the Whitsunday Regional Council, shared exciting news about the fishing competition.
Participants have the chance to win incredible cash prizes, including a staggering $20,000 for catching a released Golden Barra. Additionally, there’s a chance to snag one of the two elusive Platinum Barras, each worth a remarkable $7,500.
“The Golden Barramundi is 1% of all Barramundi’s, it’s orange, yellow and all these amazing colours.” Craig enthused.
The fish, which will be released by the Mayor of the Whitsundays Ry Collins, will all be tagged, and the competition runs until someone catches the prized fish.
“What we want is for people to have access to fishing in Lake Proserpine, so you could go down there, camp with a $10 tent and with a cheap fishing rod and lure you could potentially catch a $20,000 Golden Barra,” Craig explained.
Launching on 5th October, this competition is open to all anglers, get your rods at the ready and reel in $20,000.
Top Tip for catching Barramundis:
They get hungry in the warmer water, so the hotter months from October to February are your best chance to catch the hungry Barras!
What: Barra Cash Dash
When: Launched 5th October and runs until someone catches the fish!
Where: Lake Proserpine
Catching the Golden Barra will win you a big cash prize

Friday 4th October
Art Party Afternoons
3pm
Bring your own project! Do you have an existing arts project that you are looking to finish? Are you looking to meet up socially with other artists in an accessible environment? Art Party Afternoons recognises all of the unfinished projects (crochet, painting, craft, zine, artist book, comic, scribbles…whatever you are working on!). The monthly art hangs will connect the like-minded community to get creative inspo and provide you a place to make. This is a self-led event - bring your own project and share a cup of tea and a chat!
Crossroad Arts, 55 Wood Street, Mackay
PBR Mackay
7pm
A sport unlike any other. A battle of the greatest. A competition of man vs beast where every second counts. The best in bull riding battle it out in a new Professional Bull Riders season like no other. Get ready for a premier entertainment experience at the PBR over 2 days (Friday 4th October and Saturday 5th October). Buckle up for the toughest 8 seconds in sports and find out what it means to be cowboy.
BB Print Stadium Mackay
Fremont – Film Night
7.30pm
Donya, a young Afghan who moved to Fremont, California after serving as a translator for the American army, spends her days working at a fortune cookie factory and her nights wide awake battling between her desire to rebuild her life and the overbearing guilt she carries within. In a bid to connect with the world, she sends an unconventional message through a fortune cookie. Book via trybooking.com
Cook Theatre, Building 1, CQU Mackay Campus
LIVE Music
6-9pm
Catch DJ Quincy LIVE at Ocean International – it's a performance you won’t want to miss!
Ocean International
Saturday 5th October
Pilates With Katrina At Mantra
7am
Pilates for LRC Runners after your Saturday morning run/walk. Please bring your mat and $5 to pay for your session.
Mantra Mackay
Rhythm And The Reef 2024
From 1pm
Are you ready Central Queensland! Presented by @fieldminingservicesgroup and @hitmackay, your favourite local music and arts festival is back for its fourth year with a huge line-up to be announced. Bliss N Eso, Skegss, Thelma Plum, Sneaky Sound System, Allday, Giant Palms, Jonte, The Wild Sky, Same Pains, pacey and more! Enjoy a day packed with electrifying music, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant community vibes. All ages licensed bar event.
Meadowlands Amphitheatre, Botanic Gardens, Mackay
Sunday 6th October
Mackay Swap Meet & Community Markets 2024
6am
Bringing to you a fantastic event that’s perfect for the whole community! With over 100 stalls packed with unique finds, there’s something for everyone. $5 Admission (per person) $25 Site Fee for sellers. Gates open from 6am - 12pm. What to expect: Car, truck, and bike parts. Cool memorabilia. A variety of tools for all trades. Plants, clothing, woodwork, and bric-a-brac. Whether you’re searching for that special item or just browsing, you’re sure to find something amazing! For more information contact: 0499 302 976 or email info@mackayswapmeet.org.au
Mackay Showgrounds
Boundless Book Club
12.30pm
In this digital age, nothing can take you away quite like a book. Join the group for a cup of tea to meet your local book lovers! Bring your favourite book that you would like to share with us, and $10 towards our Danishes...in the meantime, save the date and register your participation!
Kitten Vintage Mackay
Monday 7th October
Services Australia Drop In
9am
Do you require support with accessing your MyGov, or need information around payment and services with Centrelink, Medicare, and Child Support, come along to these drop-in sessions to have a face-to-face chat.
Dudley Denney City Library
Tuesday 8th October
Chatty Cafe
9.30am
Chatty Café invites you to come along to connect, converse, and share ideas.
Chatty Café is a global movement that aims to reduce loneliness and social isolation, connecting people over a cuppa to help improve health and mental wellbeing.
People can feel isolated for many reasons; living alone, parenting at home, restrictive disabilities, getting older, or being linguistically diverse to name a few.
Gordon White Library
Phoneography Workshop
3.45pm
Learn how to take better photos on your mobile phone from a professional photographer! A workshop for young people aged 12-17years. Have you ever wanted to take better photos on your mobile phone? Are you trying to master that perfect portrait, compose better TikToks or beautify your Instagram grid? Just bring your own smartphone/tablet, appropriate footwear, sun protection and your imagination as we show you some basic tips and tricks for taking better photos. This FREE event is for youth aged 12-17 years of age. In the event of wet weather, the workshop may be cancelled or postponed.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Wednesday 9th October
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
Puzzle and Chat
9.30am
A good puzzler can complete a 500-piece jigsaw in just hours! How quickly can a group of keen puzzlers put a 1000-piece jigsaw together? Join others to complete jigsaw puzzles while chatting. Drop in to Dudley Denny City Library, from 9.30am to 1pm on Wednesday, August 14
Dudley Denney City Library
Thursday 10th October
Explore A Gym
10am-12pm
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
Riverside Markets
3pm-8pm
Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations by crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!
Bluewater Quay

Eurovision, America’s Got Talent and The Voice (Australia) superstar Johnny Manuel joins the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival.
Johnny Manuel has an impressive 20-year career as a singer, songwriter and musician, and we get to see his skills here in the Whitsundays.
He has recently performed for United States President Joe Biden in New York City and, has appeared on America’s Got Talent, The Voice Australia and Eurovision, honing his skills and building an international fan base along the way.
Johnny Manuel will take to the stage in Airlie Beach for the Concert and Conversation held at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on Oct 12 as part of the festival’s program.
Last year’s festival Concert and Conversation sold out fast with audience members coming from all over Australia to see this unique world-class performance in a local waterfront setting.
Tickets are now on sale here to see Johnny Manuel and other festival favourites in Concert and Conversation on Saturday 12 October.
Johnny Manuel will also take part as songwriting mentor joining the festival’s Professional Faculty as part of the one-day songwriting workshop open to the public on Saturday 12 October.
Tickets are selling fast for both public events.
Johnny Manuel is joining other world class musicians in the Whitsunday Songwriters Festival, Photo supplied

Are you thinking about adding a new member to your family? Don’t miss the Adopt-A-Dog Day, which is taking place at Pets Domain in Bowen.
Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue Inc will be in-store to help you meet and learn about animals who are looking for their forever homes and encourage community members to “come along” and support them.
Whether you’re ready to adopt a furry friend or simply want to support your local rescue, this event is perfect for pet lovers of all kinds!
To make it even more special, for every bag of SavourLife dog dry food sold on the day, SavourLife will donate an equivalent bag to the local rescue group.
In addition to meeting adorable animals, enjoy delicious snag sizzles and face painting!
If you want a new furry friend, adopt don’t shop and head down to Pets Domain Bowen, where you can meet some fantastic animals who are all in need of a loving furrever home.
What: Adopt-A-Dog Day
Where: Pets Domain Bowen (79 Powell Street, Bowen QLD 4805)
When: Saturday 5th October 2024, 10am - 2pm
Help make a dog’s day by giving it a forever home!

The Bowen Turf Club and Hillery Group Bowen Cup is fast approaching, and this year’s Cup is even bigger, with six races! One more than last year.
Bowen Turf Club Treasurer Helen Daley is expecting another busy event with over 3000 people expected to attend and sit back and enjoy a day filled with racing, socialising and cold drinks.
“I enjoy seeing everybody having a great time,” said Helen.
“It's all about the people socialising in a fun atmosphere with the local races happening.
“I look around, and everybody is just having a good time, which is what all we want.”
Tickets for the premium marquee are sold out, and there are very limited number of table tickets available.
A table sits eight people and costs $100 - they are perfect if you fancy having a comfortable home base for the duration of the day.
It wouldn’t be a race day without high class fashion and this years Fashions On The Field at Bowen Cup is sponsored by Pilcher’s Recycling.
Fashion experts can enter the competition and there five categories this year.
Race times are yet to be confirmed but Bowen Turf Club will open their gates at 11am.
General admission tickets are available now via Oztix and are $20 plus booking fee, on the day tickets will be $25 plus booking fee.
What: Bowen Turf Club and Hillery Group Bowen Cup
Where: Bowen Turf Club
When: Saturday 12 October at 11am
Bowen Turf Club will be hosting the 2024 Bowen Cup, Photo supplied

The Grand View Hotel in Bowen is open every day and this classic pub always has something on that’ll make you want to visit.
Every Monday evening Grand View Hotel hosts a trivia night, testing your brain and spending time with friends is the best way to start the week. And why not enjoy Grand View’s Monday food special, a Pot & Parmi for $20.
On Tuesday you can enjoy 50% your second meal, so make sure you bring a friend!
Music lovers will love Wednesdays at Grand View Hotel. Test your music knowledge with Musical Bingo, there are prizes to win and what better way to break up the week than to spend time with your mates. Accompany testing your music knowledge by tucking in to a delicious steak with a massive $10 off.
Thursdays, for just $20 you can enjoy one of Grand View Hotel’s signature Burgers plus a pot of beer.
Nothing beats popping down to the local on a Friday night to celebrate reaching the weekend but at the Grand View Hotel there is something better. On Friday’s between 5pm – 7pm purchase a raffle ticket to go into a draw to win gift vouchers from Bowen meat. Buying raffle tickets helps raise funds for the different nominated not-for-profit organisations raising money that week.
The weekend really does start on Fridays at the Grand View Hotel. On Friday 8pm – 12am live musicians hit the stage and give you the perfect start to the weekend. And continuing on the good vibes, the live music celebrates the weekend with music on at 8pm – 12am at Saturday and Sunday 4pm – 8pm.
Grab a Burger and a Pot for $20 every Thursday at Grand View. Photo supplied

Port Denison Sailing Club is hosting an open day for little adventures to try out sailing.
This event is for new sailors but is also open to sailors that participated in the Port Denison Sailing Club’s Little or Big Pirates program earlier in 2024.
You are encouraged to come along, test your memory and see how your abilities have held up, just in time for the new season.
Pirate Open Day will be $10 per participant and each session following will also be $10, pay as you go.
Sailors must be between 5-10 years old and confident in the ocean. They also must bring their own stinger suit, water bottle, sunscreen and hat. The club can provide a life jacket, and bump hats are available for purchase as well.
For any enquires, message Kara Jeffrey on FB or on 0484344993.
What: Pirates Open Day
Where: Port Denison Sailing Club
When: Sunday 13 October 9am – 12pm

On Saturday 12 October witness the official launch of the Bowen Community Garden at the ‘Sowing the Seeds of Wellbeing’ event.
Starting at 8am and located at 65 Williams Street, Bowen the event is free, family-friendly and offers a unique opportunity for people of all ages to learn about the importance of mental health while connecting with nature.
The day promises to be packed with engaging activities, including gardening and wellbeing presentations led by experts, giving attendees practical tips on improving their mental and physical wellbeing
There will also be community information stalls, where local organisations will share resources and services related to health, wellness, and community support. Visitors will be treated to a free sausage sizzle and can explore a variety of options from local food vans, making it a perfect outing for the whole family.
Mayor Ry Collins will launch this new wonderful garden.
Everyone is encouraged to attend the event which is a great way to learn about mental health, experience the benefits of nature, and strengthen community ties.
Whether you're an avid gardener or simply looking for a fun and informative family day out, there will be something for everyone.
For more information, visit www.stellacommunity.org.au or contact 0456 951 980.
What: Sowing The Seeds Of Wellbeing Community Event
Where: Bowen Community Garden 66 Williams Street Bowen
When: Saturday 12 October from 8am

Get ready to ignite your senses with the sizzling sounds of The Mad Mariachi. Straight from the heart of Queensland, Mad Mariachi are ready to bring unmistakable flavour and flair to the Airlie Beach Hotel.
Having played together for over 10 years, and regularly playing in Brisbane at their Mariachi Mondays, the band is well equipped to provide you with a sensational Mexican tequila chaser to draw a close to Oktoberfest-ivities.
Leading the charge is multi-talented Nelson Mansilla, whose guitar and vocals transport audiences into a world of musical enchantment. Nelson says for audience members to be prepared as it is going to be a fun one:
“It's going to be a twist on your traditional Oktoberfest and we do have some surprises there, so be ready for some quirky competitions, and get ready to enjoy.”
The band have played for a wide variety of audiences including guitarist of Powderfinger Ian Hawk’s birthday, which Nelson said was a fantastic highlight of their career.
Nelson says he and the band can’t wait to head to Airlie Beach and play at Oktoberfest:
“We are very excited; the plan is to try and find the best fish and chips in Airlie Beach!”
Mad Mariachi love playing for regional crowds like Airlie Beach:
“We love playing for regional crowds as they are quite responsive and super curious,” Nelson enthused.
“We also feel a little bit of a responsibility when, we go around calling ourselves mariachis, because it’s also an educational thing for people.”
The passion and energy of The Mad Mariachi are irresistible and contagious, making every performance a fiesta of joy and celebration, where you can sing, dance and party Oktoberfest away.
“Audience members will be able to participate with us in some surprise little events that we are going to be preparing for them and there might even be a pinata,” Nelson explained.
Head down for a Marg with Mad Mariachi for Oktoberfiesta!
What: Mad Mariachi
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel Oktoberfest
When: Evening – Saturday October 5 from 7pm; Afternoon – Sunday October 6 from 2pm
Mad Mariachi are ready to shake up Airlie Beach Hotel at Oktoberfest
Grab a Marg and head to the Airlie Beach Hotel

Kicking off Oktoberfest at the Airlie Beach Hotel is Oompah Loompah, who are going to bring, a whole load of fun to the weekend festivities, with their oompah and polka style pop covers on Friday night and Saturday Afternoon.
Expect to hear 500 miles, Billie Jean, Bohemian Rapsody and their all-time favourite song ‘Livin on a prayer’, all mixed in with traditional style music, helping you get your Trachten shoes warmed up for a day full of games, drinking and competitions.
Oompah Loompah consists of five fantastic jazz musicians, who grew up in Wollongong, and are very excited for their first ever performance in Airlie Beach, where they can't wait to explore on their time off.
Starting out Oktoberfest on a high-note the band will be also putting on a yodelling competition, to ensure guests leave with sore throats!
The band will be kitted out in full lederhosen, in the spirit of the festivities, and encourage audience members to do the same.
Band leader and trumpeter Kyle Eardley, states that Oompah Loompah love playing to regional crowds:
“Coming from a more rural area ourselves, it’s nice to see people really enjoy the music and just get into it.
“Just seeing everyone enjoy it as much as we do is really thrilling for us!”
Audiences can expect one big party when they head down to watch Oompah Loompah in action:
“It’s just going to be one big party; we are really excited to come to Airlie Beach.”
Oompah Loompah always have a great time, whether on stage or roving, and want the audience to be a part of the experience. Whether you dance, sing or just smile it doesn’t matter.
This fantastic performance can’t be missed, grab a stein and have a good time!
What: Oompah Loompah
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel Oktoberfest
When: Friday October 4th from 7pm; Afternoon – Saturday October 5th from 2pm
Oompah Loompah are dancing their way to the Airlie Beach Hotel at Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest Airlie Beach Hotel style

Gather your mates and dust off your lederhosen for an action-packed weekend of delicious beers, authentic German delights, traditional Oktoberfest games. There will also be a special performance from Oompah Loompah and loads of competitions – so be sure to dress to impress!
Continuing with the fun on Saturday, the Airlie Beach Hotel spins off into a Spanish fiesta with a Mexican-themed Tequila Chaser that's sure to pack a punch. Oktober-fiesta will feature the Mad Mariachi Band who will be performing Saturday night and Sunday afternoon to help you get your Margarita on. The festivities also feature Mexican food specials, FREE Sombreros alongside Moustaches, Tequila Toasts and Margs for everyone.
In the spirit of Oktoberfest, the Airlie Beach Hotel is thrilled to host a Stein Holding competition at 3pm and a Pretzel Eating contest at 4pm on Saturday, October 5th, in The Sports Bar.
On Sunday, they will hold a Chili Eating competition at 4pm, also in The Sports Bar. All competitions will be hosted by the hilarious Comedian Mad Mike Bennett. Participants can sign up starting at noon—just see the bar staff for details.
Over the weekend there are also some great food specials in theme with the performances. There is a taco food special, where you can enjoy two traditional Mexican slow braised beef tacos with a spicy salsa. If German is more your style, there are two options for you. A German slow braised pork knuckle with beer gravy & creamy mash, or a traditional bratwurst served on a fresh bread roll with sauerkraut, mustard & ketchup and house seasoned fries.
It's promised to be a fantastic German style weekend, who doesn't love beer, bands and bratwurst!

Friday 27 September
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Hannah Roberts (from 8pm)
Saturday 28 September
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Lisa Hunt (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Darcy David (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm – 6pm)
Sunday 29 September
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Lisa Hunt (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Colonial Palms Motor Inn: Nick Di Gregorio and Dylan Hammond (from 3pm)
Grand View Hotel: Hannah Roberts (4pm – 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Chill Acoustic Session (from 2pm – 6pm)

Airlie Beach locals have taken to Facebook in hopes of securing a performance from singer-songwriter Tones and I.
Many people may know the famous singer for her song ‘Dance Monkey,’ which helped raise her to fame in May 2019.
One particular fan of the artist, Kristel Risteski, set up the facebook page: ‘Tones and I comes to Paradise!’, in hopes of getting Tones and I to come to the beautiful Airlie Beach.
“She’s an amazing artist, she came from nothing, which has made a lot of people drawn to her, including myself.”
“She sings, writes, produces and composes all of her music, what else can you say about her? When someone as talented as her is in the area, why wouldn't we want her here?”
After seeing her a few weeks ago in Townsville during part of her Queensland stint, Krystal jumped on the Facebook trend, where fans create pages encouraging the artist to visit their area.
Getting Tones and I to Airlie Beach would be great for the community, as Airlie Beach often isn’t on the tour list for many artists:
“’I’m really excited to bring the community together to support something I believe is amazing,” Krystal added.
“Her music resonates deeply with younger audiences—especially kids. She’s become a bit of an idol for them.”
“Her spirit is so community-oriented; she rose from humble beginnings as a busker and made it on her own. Many young people look up to her story.”
Airlie Beach community members have rallied together in a bid to get the singer to come to the region, with the beautifully located Northerlies even raising their hand to host the concert if the singer accepts.
Please come and have some fun in the sun Tones and I, the Airlie Beach community are crossing their fingers!
Locals plead Tones and I to come to Airlie Beach