Friday 24th May

Star Wars Unlimited Store Showdown
9am
Join us for the very first Star Wars Unlimited Store Showdown! Big prizes are up for grabs, so you don't want to miss this one! Swiss style tournament with best of one, compete to see who can take out the top prize. Cost: $25 per person including a drink
Time: Friday 24th May 6:30pm-10pm. May the Force be with you!
 75 Victoria St, Mackay 

2024 Mackay Expo
4pm
Your lifestyle, your adventure at the 2024 Mackay Expo. Join us on 24th to 26th May at Mackay Showgrounds for the region’s largest and most exciting outdoor adventure, home and lifestyle event. Learn from the experts and discover new destinations, innovative living ideas, and outdoor products and services. Enjoy the interactive displays, entertainment, and prizes.
Mackay Showgrounds

VaMa Live
6.30pm
Get ready for a night to remember!  Join us this week at the Burb for an unforgettable live performance by the incredible VaMa! Feel the vibe, enjoy the music, and make memories from 6:30pm-10:30pm. See you in the bar for a fantastic evening of entertainment!
Souths Suburban Bowls Club

‘Into The Woods’ Play
8pm
Step into a world where fairy tales collide and dreams unravel. "Into the Woods" beckons you on a captivating journey where beloved characters venture into a mysterious forest to fulfil their deepest wishes. Join Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack, and others as they confront their fears and discover the true meaning of 'happily ever after.'
Don't miss out on our incredible show! Tickets available for 24 and 25 May, 2024.
CQU Conservatorium Theatre, QLD University, Boundary Road

Saturday 25th May

Pet Food Donation Ride
9am
All welcome to join Mackay Pet Rescue’s ride and to help animals in need. Please donate any unopened cat or dog food or visit mackaypetrescueinc.com.au for their wishlist. For any monetary donation please scan the QR code to donate via PayPal. Food Drop Off point at Pet Barn, Mt Pleasant
Pet Barn, Mount Pleasant

Mackay Poultry Annual Show
9am
IT'S SHOW TIME. Mackay Poultry Club Annual Show 25th May 2024
Gather your best show birds and come along to our Poultry show.
Our FEATURE this year is BRAHMA & COCHIN'S
Mackay Showgrounds

Talking Health and Hormones
5pm
Are you struggling with low energy, stubborn weight or feeling moody? Do you feel like your hormones are out of control? If so, this short, information session is for you.
Join us for real talk on how women are losing the bloat, sleeping better and feeling more in control of their health. Seats are limited so be sure to secure your tickets online.
Rydges Mackay Suites

Glow In The Dark Party
7pm
Kooyong Glow In The Dark R&B night,
Free Entry, 18+ only. Come on down for a party at the Yong
1 Harbour Rd, North Mackay

Sunday 26th May

Laura’s Triathlon
7am
Swim | Bike | Run
Check-In - from 7.00am, Race Briefings - 7.45am, Racing with Kids from 8.00am. Adults on completion of Kids triathlon. Couse Maps and more information available at: mackaytriclub.com.au
Mackay Harbour Surf Lifesaving Club

Million Paws Walk RSPCA
8am
Animal Lovers- 30 years - Rspca Million Paws Walk - kindly support by buying a ticket and or merchandise, bring your furbaby dressed up or fluffed up and enjoy a morning together. Significant Other will entertain plus there will be awards for puppies/dogs - enrol now at https://www.millionpawswalk.com.au/mackay 
Queens Park

Mens Monthly Yoga With Chris
10am
Join Chris for his Mens only Yoga classes.
This class will be run on the 4th Sunday of most months.
Yoga offers an incredible range of benefits for men of all ages. Not only does the practice boast incredible stress-relieving qualities, but it can also help you lose weight, gain strength and muscle, improve work and sleep.
37 Boddington St, Mackay

Bushland Gelsoft Battlefield Games
1pm
Basic games & scenarios. 1pm sign in and briefings, 2-5pm games.
**Booking essential to qualify for the discount and confirm numbers**
$30pp prepaid or $40pp on the battlefield. Limited glow ready blasters are available for hire at $20 per blaster.
Rowallan Park, Farleigh

Tuesday 28th May

Chat and Play  
9am
Come along for a play in the park and catch up with other families. Come late, leave early, we know what it's like with small children!
John Breen Park

Pop-Up Play Spaces: Indoor Play
1pm
Drop in and explore our interactive play spaces for young children from birth to five years. These activities and experiences help support children’s physical, mental, social and emotional development.
Gordan White Library

Wednesday 29th May

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 Ct, Andergrove

Thursday 30th May

Riverside Markets
From 3pm
Come along and browse J2Fs collections of unique and colourful creations… Funky jewellery and fun kids clothing 
Bluewater Quay Mackay

YP Networking By The River    
5.30pm
YP presents: Networking by the River, supported by Mackay Regional Council.
Get set for an evening of networking by the Pioneer River at River Wharves. Learn about Mackay Regional Council’s current projects and get to know your recently declared Mayor and Councillors. Tickets are $30 (plus booking fee), which includes one welcome cocktail or mocktail. A selection of cocktails/mocktail are available for purchase at 1999 prices! A range of other drinks are also available to buy. Grab your tickets and we'll meet you there, river side!
River Wharves, River Street Mackay

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Sydney Drag Queen’s sell-out Kath and Kim Drag Bingo returns to MECC on Saturday, 29 June, hosted by two foxy morons: Prada Clutch and Conchita Grande.

Prada is one of Australia's most sought-after live-singing drag queens. She plays Kathleen "Kath" Darleen Day-Knight.

“Playing Kath came natural to me as I grew up watching the TV show on rainy days at school and I was already using Kath-isms when hosting in drag as they have become a part of Australian culture,” says Prada.

Conchita is one of Sydney's most popular gender-bending miming drag queens.  She plays Kimberly Diane "Kim" Craig (née Day).

“Playing Kim involved a lot of homework.  I had to spend a lot of time sitting on the couch at home watching TV eating lots of unhealthy snacks,” Conchita says.

Prada and Conchita have been touring the East Coast of Australia with their Kath and Kim-themed drag bingo, playing to packed houses of fanatical Kath and Kim fans—and now they’re en route to Mackay!

“We started touring the new show just as COVID-19 hit our shores,” says Prada.

“The pandemic changed our plans slightly, but despite this, we’ve been touring the show since 2020, taking the show to the poiples of Australia.”

Each night, one thousand dollars cash plus prizes are given away while punters play absolutely hilarious games of drag bingo—the type of bingo that you would expect to hear on the main stage at Fountain Gate Shopping Centre.

In addition to hosting Kath and Kim-themed drag bingo, Prada and Conchita perform a Kath and Kim favourite that you will know and love.

“Performing the chart-topping hit as seen on TV at The Logies, is definitely a hoighlight of the night for our fans,” says Prada.

“Come along dressed as your favourite Kath and Kim character for your chance to win our fancy dress proize. Who knows, you may even go home with our major $1,000 cash proize!”

If you’re looking for a fun night out that will leave you in stitches and maybe even a little more effluent, then this is the show for you,

Hornbags! Get your tickets now at www.kathandkimdragbingo.com.

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One of the country’s up and coming Opera stars, Marcus Corowa, is a Bowen boy who  spent most of his childhood in the region and is now hitting the big stage and performing in Queensland’s biggest opera productions.

But how did he get there?

Marcus grew up around music, going to the local church with his family and playing a lot of instruments.

With this passion for music at a young age, Marcus decided he wanted a career in singing and song writing.

To make this dream come true he moved to Sydney with those intentions, but other opportunities came his way.

Marcus started branching out and performing in musicals and operas, which required him to act, dance and perform.

With a new skillset and now fully immersed within the arts industry, Marcus has been performing in some of Queensland’s biggest opera productions with Opera Queensland.

Three years ago, he performed in Opera Queensland’s most successful production, ‘Are You Lonesome Tonight’, which toured regional Queensland and celebrated Opera and Country music.

Earlier this year he was involved in a fun production named ‘Do We Need Another Hero’ which came to Proserpine as part of its regional tour.

The show was filled with a variety of genres and in essence left audiences wondering what it means to be a human being in this world.

In August of this year, Marcus will be performing in another Opera Queensland production called ‘Straight from the Strait’.

This production will be the first Torres Strait Islander musical in Australia, and it pays homage to the Torres Strait Islander men and women that ventured far from their homes in pursuit of employment on the mainland.

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Marcus Corowa, Photo Supplied

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Calling all Aussie rock fans to The Pub at The Airlie Beach Hotel!

Midnight Oil and Cold Chisel tribute acts are hitting the stage and bringing with them, the iconic songs everyone loves.

You’ll hear hits like Khe Sanh, When the War is Over, Cheap Wine, Flame Trees, You Got Nothing I Want and Choir Girl from Cold Chisel.

And from Midnight Oil you’ll be belting out the hits of Power and the Passion, US Forces, Dreamworld, King of the Mountain, Forgotten Years, Beds are Burning, Blue Sky Mine and many more.

Cold Chisel tribute act main singer Andy Lutze has been performing this Cold Chisel act for 24 years.

Throughout the years he has perfected the act and pushes his voice to the limit just like the real Jimmy Barnes.

Initially, he planned to do the show for just a few years but when it became a huge hit, he decided to continue.

Drawing inspiration from the real band, Andy combined the show with a Midnight Oil tribute and together created this masterful double feature.

The real Midnight Oil used to be an opening act for Cold Chisel in the 80’s, so these two tributes thought nothing would be better than combining their tribute acts.

The two perform one after another and play hit after hit.

Both acts deliver what you expect!

Amazing songs and tracks that are great to sing along to.

Midnight Oil front man, Alexander Hell said ‘If you only get to see two shows this year, make sure it’s this one, twice!”

And if that doesn’t sell the show to you, I don’t know what will.

WHAT: Midnight Oil Tribute Act & ‘Gold Chisel’ (Cold Chisel) Tribute Act
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 1 June & Sunday 2 June (2pm – 5.30pm)
TICKETS: You don’t need any! But booking a table is recommended

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Māori man Josiah has always loved music.

Music is a big part in the Māori culture and growing up around that, Josiah developed an interest at an early age.

Despite having his first gig at 16, Josiah never imagined music would be his full-time career, but fast forward to today, and it is.

It’s been seven years since Josiah became a full-time musician and he has never looked back.

He has been hitting stages around Airlie Beach and displaying his talent.

Josiah said he primarily plays reggae, Motown and soul but also joked that when he plays pop and singalong anthems, he does it to entertain the girls.

For the past three months Josiah has had Casey Donnellan as his manager and he says he’s extremely thankful for her care and support.

Although Josiah’s career is in music, he likes to keep busy during the day, and he does the occasional day job, heading out the water or looking after accommodation.

WHAT: Josiah live on stage
WHEN: From 8pm on Saturday 24th May & Sunday 26th June
WHERE: KC’s Bar & Grill

Josiah performing on stage
Josiah

Photos supplied

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Whitsunday Regional Council is showing support for the local arts scene by sponsoring the main prize at the upcoming Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition.

They have contributed $3000 to the prize pool, affirming their commitment to fostering local artistic talent.

Mayor Collins expressed Council’s dedication to promoting a thriving arts culture in the Whitsunday region.

“It’s important we support opportunities for artists to showcase their creations and connect with local audiences,” he said.

"It not only benefits our local artists but contributes to the cultural experiences available for our community."

The organisers from Creative Connections Whitsunday Inc have welcomed Council's sponsorship, which contributed to raising the total prize money to over $8000.

Glenda Brown, Exhibition Coordinator, emphasised that art prizes play a crucial role in providing artists with exposure and opportunities for artwork sales, and a unique cultural event for locals and visitors.

To add to the event's prestige, the winning artwork will be added to the Council's curated collection.

Panellists Sandy Guy and Bonney Bombach, along with a Council member, will help with the preselection process.

Deadline for entry is 30 June 30 2024 and all artists are invited to enter. 

The exhibition is due to be held at the Whitsunday Sailing Club from August 1-5, 2024. The event will display a variety of 2D and 3D artworks and photographs, and attendees can participate in the 'People's Choice' Award by voting for their favourite artwork.

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WHAT: Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition
WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club
WHEN: 1-5 August

Last year’s theme was Whales and this year artists are invited to explore ‘Above and Below’ works. Photo supplied

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James Reyne from Australian Crawl is coming to town!

With him he brings his amazing band and they’ll be performing all of the classic Australian Crawl hits, that’ll have you belting out the lyrics.

From Reckless to The Boys Light up, Hammerhead and Fall of Rome – there are too many iconic tunes to list here – you’ll have to go and see the performance instead!

James and his band have been performing this tour since January of this year and so far, every show has been sold out and has rocked out.

He’s extremely eager to get to the Whitsundays and says the small rural towns do not lack in support.

James said he feeds off the crowd to enhance his performance and take it to the next level.

“It’s a two-way thing, the psychology of show business is someone on stage, pushing energy out, and energy’s coming back,” he added.

Performing for such a long time, James said he is only improving with time, and during his career he has learned valuable information about show business, song writing and personal relations.

“Being in a band it means you get to experience things that people would normally experience but you get to experience them in a really intense few years,” he said.

“You get all these life experiences, and you have to learn these life lessons quite quickly and intently about human nature and how people are, how people relate to you, how you relate to them and the world.”

It’s not just life lessons James has learned throughout his career; he understands the muse and what to do if he encounters a blank with his song writing.

“I recognise that it’s not a hard time, it’s natural part of life,” James said.

“It’s the natural ebb and flow of creative consciousness and when you do that, you serve the music, you're calling it earlier, you sit down, and you work at your craft, you start working and you start thinking.

“You start tinkering with an idea you might have had three weeks ago or an idea you might have had yesterday or two lines you might have written down six months ago and things start to happen.

“I learned to not worry about that [getting a blank in songwriting], let it slide and the so-called muse will revisit you.”

James is bringing all his expertise and experience to Magnums Hotel in Airlie Beach this June, for one night with this incredible music legend.

Alongside all the Australian Crawl hits, you can expect to hear all the song you know and love for 90 minutes of rock and roll classics.

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WHAT: James Reyne from Australian Crawl
WHERE: Magnums Hotel
WHEN: June 21

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James Reyne is coming to Airlie Beach next month
A record cover of James Reyne’s Hammerhead released in 1987

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The North Queensland Battle Of The Young Bands and Young Whitsundays Got Talent are two very special events which invite our region’s youth to showcase their musical abilities, giving them an opportunity to play live in front of big crowds.

If you’re in a local band or a solo musician this is your chance!

First-up is North Queensland Battle Of The Young Bands competition and the winner receives $1000 in prize money and a gig at Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill.

Open for young people of all ages, there are three age categories, 5-12, 13-17 and 18-21, anyone can enter!

Every registered band will perform two songs in a heat and winners of each heat will perform another song in the Grand Final.

Additionally, the event will be live streamed on Facebook, and appear on Whitsundays Got Talent’s YouTube page.

To enter, your band must have three or more band members.

This event is brought to you by Whitsundays Got Talent which is a not-for-profit local organisation that is passionate about helping young people unleash their musical abilities.

The organisation is currently looking for sponsorship so, if you are a local business or individual, and would like to support this community group, then please reach out.

WHAT: North Queensland Battle Of The Young Bands
WHERE: Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill
WHEN: Sunday 16 June, 12.30pm

WHAT: Young Whitsundays Got Talent
WHERE: Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill
WHEN: Sunday 13 October 1pm

REGISTER: info@whitsundaysgottalent.com

Gleezus won Young Battle Of The Bands last year. Photo credit: Whitsunday Life Newspaper

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St Catherine's Catholic College celebrated its annual Under Eights Day last Friday, bringing together over 200 students from kindergarten to Year 2, students from St Mary's Catholic School travelled from Bowen to also enjoy the day’s fun activities.

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St Mary’s Catholic School in Bowen is hosting its Family Fun Day this weekend and the whole community are invited to come along to what is expected to be an entertaining day out.

There will be free wildlife encounters with Wildlife Whitsundays, and a variety of carnival rides for all ages including a chair-o-plane, inflatable obstacle course, climbing wall, super slide, mini-Jeeps and a Disney-themed jumping castle.

Several local organisations will also be present on the day, providing different types of entertainment and activities for all to enjoy.

With Emergency Service vehicles on display, a children's cake decorating competition and a Pony Poo competition – there will be plenty to do!

In addition, there will be a wide variety of stalls serving delicious food.

School Principal, Mrs Alicia Ninnes, said the school's Parents and Friends Association have been working tirelessly for the last few months to prepare for the biannual event.

"The Family Fun Day is going to be a fantastic opportunity to open our doors to the wider community, and to showcase the hard work and dedication of our parents, staff and students,” she expressed.

“It's going to be a lot of fun, with so many rides, stalls and entertainment on offer, and we are looking forward to welcoming everyone on Saturday!"

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WHAT: St Mary’s Family Fun Day
WHERE: St Mary’s Catholic School, Bowen
WHEN: Saturday 25th May – 2pm-6pm

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Friday17t^hof May

ThePub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Back to the 70’s & 80’s Band (7pm –10pm)

ReefGateway: Sam McCann (6pm – 9pm)

JubileeTavern: Erin (6pm – 9pm)

GrandView Hotel: Paul Berger (8pm – 12am)

KC’s:Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Saturday18^thof May

MiniRoller Disco, PCYC from 10am

RossWilson & the Peaceniks at the Proserpine Entertainment Centrefrom 7.30pm

ThePub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Back to the 70’s & 80’s Band (2pm –5.30pm)

ThePub, Airlie Beach Hotel: London Calling (7pm – 10pm)

ReefGateway: Kieran McCarthy (6pm – 9pm)

GrandView Hotel: RnB Night (8pm – 12am)

KC’s:Sar-rha (from 8pm)

Sunday19^thof May

ThePub, Airlie Beach Hotel: London Calling (2pm – 5.30pm)

ThePub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Lloyd Saunders (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

GrandView Hotel: Scotty Wilson (4pm – 8pm)

KC’s:Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Monday20^thof May

KC’s:Scott Wilson (from 8pm)

Tuesday21^stof May

Sailability,Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

KC’s:Scott Wilson (from 8pm)

Wednesday22^ndof May

KC’s:Tim Conlon (from 8pm)

Thursday23^rdof May

KC’s:Tim Conlon (from 8pm)

Saturday25^thof May

MiniRoller Disco, PCYC from 10am

CQRescue Charity Golf Day, Proserpine Golf Club, from 9am

StMary’s Bowen Family Fun Day, Location TBA, from 2pm

Sunday26^thof May

JazzEvent, Colonial Palms, from 3pm

Friday31^stof May  

ReconciliationWeek – Bowen Twilight Markets, Hansen Park, Horseshoe Bay Road from4pm

NationalReconciliation Week Twilight Markets & Airlie Beach Movie Night –The Last Daughter, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 5pm

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Friday17t^hof May

ThePub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Back to the 70’s & 80’s Band (7pm –10pm)

ReefGateway: Sam McCann (6pm – 9pm)

JubileeTavern: Erin (6pm – 9pm)

GrandView Hotel: Paul Berger (8pm – 12am)

KC’s:Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Saturday18^thof May

MiniRoller Disco, PCYC from 10am

RossWilson & the Peaceniks at the Proserpine Entertainment Centrefrom 7.30pm

ThePub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Back to the 70’s & 80’s Band (2pm –5.30pm)

ThePub, Airlie Beach Hotel: London Calling (7pm – 10pm)

ReefGateway: Kieran McCarthy (6pm – 9pm)

GrandView Hotel: RnB Night (8pm – 12am)

KC’s:Sar-rha (from 8pm)

Sunday19^thof May

ThePub, Airlie Beach Hotel: London Calling (2pm – 5.30pm)

ThePub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Lloyd Saunders (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

GrandView Hotel: Scotty Wilson (4pm – 8pm)

KC’s:Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Monday20^thof May

KC’s:Scott Wilson (from 8pm)

Tuesday21^stof May

Sailability,Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

KC’s:Scott Wilson (from 8pm)

Wednesday22^ndof May

KC’s:Tim Conlon (from 8pm)

Thursday23^rdof May

KC’s:Tim Conlon (from 8pm)

Saturday25^thof May

MiniRoller Disco, PCYC from 10am

CQRescue Charity Golf Day, Proserpine Golf Club, from 9am

StMary’s Bowen Family Fun Day, Location TBA, from 2pm

Sunday26^thof May

JazzEvent, Colonial Palms, from 3pm

Friday31^stof May  

ReconciliationWeek – Bowen Twilight Markets, Hansen Park, Horseshoe Bay Road from4pm

NationalReconciliation Week Twilight Markets & Airlie Beach Movie Night –The Last Daughter, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 5pm

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Mackay audiences will be treated to an inspiring production The Peasant Prince this June as part of the DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season.

Based on the incredible story of Mao’s Last Dancer, the autobiography of Li Cunxin and a major motion picture, the play is aimed at audiences aged seven to twelve years of age.

Following the successful performances of Possum Magic and Edward the Emu, the award-winning theatre company Monkey Baa is thrilled to bring the production The Peasant Prince to Mackay, presenting three performances in the MECC Plenary Halls.

Following the international success of Li Cunxin’s iconic autobiography, Mao’s Last Dancer, the children’s version (The Peasant Prince) won the Australian Publishers Association’s Book of the Year for Younger Children and Queensland Premier’s Literary Awards Children’s Book Award.

Now adapted for stage by Monkey Baa Theatre, this is the remarkable true story of a 10-year-old peasant boy’s journey from impoverished rural China to the international dance scene.

The play begins as a young Li Cunxin who is taken from his small rural village in Northern China to study at an elite dance academy in Beijing.

Although the training is gruelling, he is inspired by dreams of a better life for both him and his family.

When a famous ballet master from the USA visits the academy, his life is changed forever.

"It’s always my hope that my life experiences inspire young people to follow their dreams and to take advantage of the boundless opportunities in their lives,” said Li.

“I think my story proves that with hard work, dedication and determination, anything is possible. You can be successful in anything, if you are willing to go that extra mile."

Li’s courage, resilience and unwavering hope for a better life for himself and his family makes The Peasant Prince a story to ignite our own aspirations to be the best person we can be.

The first performance will take place on Monday 10 June at 6pm, followed by two performances on Tuesday 11 June at 9:30am and 12:30pm.

The 12.30pm show is a relaxed performance, targeted to anyone who would benefit from a calmer environment. During this session, there is a relaxed attitude to noise, doors remain open and lights are dimmed to create a comfortable atmosphere for all attendees.

With tickets at $18.50, the MECC highly encourages parents to book their tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

The Peasant Prince is part of the 2024 DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season, proudly sponsored by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal.

What: DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season: The Peasant Prince
A Monkey Baa Theatre Company Production
Based on the book by Li Cunxin, Illustrated by Anne Spudvilas
Adapted for the stage by Eva Di Cesare, Sandie Eldridge and Tim McGarry
When: Monday 10 June, 6pm & Tuesday 11 June, 9.30am & 12.30pm
Where: MECC – Plenary Halls
Tickets:  www.themecc.com.au

Mackay audiences are in for a treat with the inspiring production of The Peasant Prince this June, featured in the DBCT Kids' Theatre Season
 

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Friday 17th May

Conversations With Art
1pm
Held on the 3rd Friday of each month, 'Conversations with Art' is a free and enjoyable discussion led by Artspace staff as we look at art works and images from gallery and museum collections.
POP-UP VENUE*: 'Artspace in Residence' room, Dudley Denny City Library, Victoria St, Mackay

Sunset Pilates
5.30pm
Wanting to learn the fundamentals? This is a beginner experience and has been designed to show you the ropes and give you a taste of Pilates and how it should feel. PLEASE BRING: A Pilates / Yoga mat, a towel, water and mozzie repellent is suggested.
Slade Point - the grass park area at top of Albatross Street.

Roaring Lion / Bob Marley Tribute
8pm
Get ready to jam to the iconic sounds of Bob Marley!  Join us for a sensational 10-piece band tribute night that'll transport you straight to the heart of reggae vibes. 
Grab your tickets now!
SeaBreeze Hotel, Slade Point

Saturday 18th May

Dried Flower Artwork
10am
Come along for a beautiful morning creating, in a relaxed setting and enjoy the steps to create a dried flower artwork made by yourself. We use create our stunning designs using real dried flowers, in a 4x6 size frame. Minimum age 12+ years. Seats are limited and bookings are essential.
Shop 1/3 Ungerer St, North Mackay

BEE MINDFUL MURAL Launch
2pm
The official launch of the BEE MINDFUL MURAL.
Great photo opportunity with our artists and opening-act performers from BEE CREATIVEZZZ. Laneway themed for the opening event and feel-good moment from our placemaking doers to our community.
7 Wood St, Mackay

Mackay Twilight Market
4pm
Join us in the big shed at the Mackay Showgrounds, from 4pm until 8:30pm.
Come along and browse the many market stalls, enjoy the live music, performed by local musicians, and taste the delicious food from the Mackay Food Trucks on Eat Street. 
$2 Adult Entry Fee - Kids 17 & under get in for free.  
Mackay Showgrounds

Sunday 19th May

Colour Frenzy Fun Walk or Run
9am
Colour Frenzy is Coming Back! A Exciting and Colourful day for Everyone! 2.5km or 5km. Sunday 19th of May 2024, we will be holding the Fun Run / Walk. Fun run starting at 9:30am we have a fun Colour, Obstacles and Foam walk or run at John Breen Park. Tickets from www.colourfrenzy.com.au
John Breen Park, Centennary Place, Malcomson St, North Mackay

2024 RACQ CQ Rescue Emergency Services Day
10am
Join us at the 2024 Emergency Services Day, proudly presented by BMA! A fun-filled community day featuring police motorbikes, fire trucks, rescue helicopters and much more! Bring the family for education exhibits, hands-on demos, kids entertainment and more! Entry is by gold coin donation towards our rescue helicopter!
Harrup Park

Colossal Boardgames at the Library
10am
Join Mackay Board gaming Guild at the library for a beginner’s board game session. 
Be introduced to the exciting world of board games where there is SO much more than Monopoly! This event is for ages12 years and older.
The Dome, 134 Victoria St, Mackay

Monday 20th May

Men’s Hair Masterclass
9am
Join us for the Men’s Hair Masterclass at Renegade Barber on Monday, 20 May 2024.
Led by award-nominated barber Damien van der Merwe, this exclusive full-day workshop will equip you with advanced techniques in men's hairstyling through in-depth presentations, live demonstrations, and hands-on practice. Limited to only 8 participants, this masterclass offers a unique opportunity to refine your skills and elevate your craft
Renegade Barber

‘Unearthing’ of the 75th Anniversary Time Capsule
1.45pm
All parents and past students are most welcome to attend this unearthing. We will display the contents of this time capsule at our community open day on Sunday 11th August! for any inquiries please email smm_centenary@rok.catholic.edu.au
St Mary's Catholic Primary School, 42 Juliet Street

Tuesday 21st May

Northern Beaches Community Play Group
9.15am
Join us for play and connection at Eimeo Esplanade on Tues 21st May. We are excited to be joined by Miss Kim from Active Squirtz so get ready to move, shake, jump and show off those broccoli muscles. What to bring: Hat, water bottle, sunscreen your own morning tea and approximately a $5 donation per family
Eimeo Esplanade

Pop-Up Play Spaces: Indoor Play
1pm
Drop in and explore our interactive play spaces for young children from birth to five years.These activities and experiences help support children’s physical, mental, social and emotional development.
Gordan White Library

Wednesday 22nd May

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 Ct, Andergrove

Thursday 23rd May

Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit    
8.30am
Greater Whitsunday Alliance and the Resources Centre of Excellence are hosting the region’s first ever decarbonisation summit in May, to help local businesses understand their role in carbon reduction. The Decarbonisation Accelerated Summit is focused on unlocking thinking around decarbonisation and to provide a platform for actionable change across our region’s businesses, industries, and economy. Tickets available through events.humanitix.com.
The MECC

Riverside Markets
From 3pm
Come along and browse J2Fs collections of unique and colourful creations… Funky jewellery and fun kids clothing 
Bluewater Quay Mackay

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Mackay Farmers’ Market

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The last thing Ben De Luca from Bowen Summergarden Cinema expected was a phone call from an Australian film icon, but that’s exactly what happened.

Wolf Creek star, John Jarratt, phoned Ben, and asked him if he could host a Meet and Greet, preview his new film, and host a Q&A at Ben’s famous little cinema in Bowen.

John Jarratt loves independent cinemas, he says they sell Australian productions with more gusto than the big cinema chains.

Being a country boy himself, John knows how exciting it can be for people to meet “the Wolf Creek guy”.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said having actor and director John Jarratt visit the town was very exciting.
 
“A lot of locals and visitors went to the meet and greet at Bowen Summergarden Cinema to meet John and he also called in at the Big Mango to say hello to the team,” Leanne said.

John wrote, produced, directed, and starred in his new film ‘What About Sal’ and he is hosting meet and greets, Q&A’s and showings in cinemas all over Australia.

‘What About Sal’ follows the story of a man with down syndrome who is losing his mother and then has to find his father.

This film has a wonderful message and John Jarratt said people with down syndrome can be much more intelligent than us.

“The main message of the film is that down syndrome people are important and they’re wonderful contributors to our societies,” he said.

“They’re emotionally more intelligent than we’ll ever be and they are capable of unconditional love, they’re quite extraordinary people.”

The film has a great cast, in the main role is Gerard Odwyer, who won Best Actor in the past.

John has heard nothing but praise about the film and says people stick around after the showings.

“No one has come up to me and said they don't like it, everyone loves it and we can't get rid of people after the show and that's always a good sign!” he added.

John tells audiences to bring tissues to their viewing but he also said there’s funny moments too.

John wants you to see this film, for your own viewing pleasure and to support Australian cinema.

“We’ve got the best actors in the world, some of the best directors but at the moment they’re not getting a fair go because there’s so many big Hollywood blockbusters flooding the market,” John said.

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Ben De Luca, John Jarratt and Former Whitsunday Mayor, Julie Hall. Photo supplied

John Jarratt starred as the serial killer in the movie Wolf Creek. Photo supplied

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Queensland's tourism industry is celebrating!

91 operators within The Whitsundays have been recognised as Best of Queensland Experiences (BOQEs) for their dedication to bringing the Queensland story to life and consistently delivering an exceptional customer experience, ensuring visitors to the region have unforgettable experiences. 

The program, launched in 2018, is the first of its kind in Australia and aims to elevate Queensland as the top holiday destination by identifying and recognising tourism products that consistently exceed expectations.

Over 2,000 experiences across the state have earned this title. 

Developed with industry partners, the program uses independent criteria to assess operators.

These include positive customer reviews, secure online bookings, active social media presence and industry accreditation.

To be recognised, businesses must achieve a high score across these categories.

Earning a BOQE status allows operators to display an official stamp, making it easier for travellers to identify these top-rated experiences. 

"A BOQE certification empowers our Whitsundays' operators," says Rick Hamilton, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays. "It equips them to deliver exceptional experiences, making every visitor feel like a VIP." 

Contributed with thanks to CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, Rick Hamilton

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Rick Hamilton, CEO Tourism Whitsundays, Photo supplied

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