March

27 FOGs Regional Tours Bowen Gala Dinner, Queens Beach Hotel, 6pm-9pm

27 Sydney Drag Queen presents WICKED Drag Bingo, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7pm-10pm

27 Speed Networking, Lumos Café 7:30-8:30am

31 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am

April

1 Social Seniors, Cannonvale Library, 9.30am

3-11 Sail Airlie Regatta

7 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am

11 & 12: SOS ABBA Tribute, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5:30pm

14 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

16 Morning Melodies – The Beggers sing the Seekers, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11am-12:30pm

21 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am

23 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am

24 Speed Networking, Lumos Café 7:30-8:30am

25 Australian Rock, ANZAC DAY, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm-6pm

28 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

May

1 SPOT, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm-12:50pm

5 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am

6 Social Seniors, Cannonvale Library, 9.30am

12 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

13 Luke Kidgell – Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:30pm

16 & 17 Whitsunday Equestrian Group T-Shirt Competition, Cannonvalley Pony Club, 8am-4pm

18 Placing of the flags, Proserpine Cemetery, 9am

19 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am

21 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am

23 Proserpine Show Ball, Proserpine Showgrounds, 6pm

26 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

29 Speed Networking, Lumos Café, 7:30-8:30am

June

3 Social Seniors, Cannonvale, 9.30am

6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Songwriting Summit, 9.30am-4pm

6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Concert & Conversation, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6pm - 8pm

9 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am

23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

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Christine Anu is set to join the lineup for the 2026 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival!

Christine Anu’s acclaimed career spans more than 27 years and includes 17 ARIA nominations, as well as the platinum-selling album Stylin’ Up. She is best known for her signature song My Island Home, originally written by Warumpi Band, which she performed at the Closing Ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.

Beyond music, Anu’s career spans film, television, and theatre. Her screen credits include appearances in Moulin Rouge! and The Matrix Reloaded, while on stage she has performed in acclaimed productions of Rent and Little Shop of Horrors. Her television roles include appearances in The Alice and Outland.

Her involvement in the 2026 festival is particularly meaningful, as her daughter, songwriter Zipporah, participated in the 2025 festival, performing alongside The Voice winner Chris Sebastian and Golden Guitarist Brad Butcher.

This year, Christine Anu joins an outstanding lineup of award-winning songwriters, instrumentalists and composers, including Mark Sholtez, Francesca de Valence and Karen Jacobsen, with more to be announced.

Supported by the Whitsundays Arts Festival, the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival has been a cultural drawcard for the region since launching in 2022 and was nominated this year in the Queensland Music Awards for Festival of the Year (People’s Choice Award).

Each year, leading Australian songwriters travel to the Whitsundays to take part in a diverse range of workshops and activities designed to nurture talent across the region.

The Songwriting Summit invites local and interstate writers to be mentored by resident artists through immersive masterclasses, skill-building workshops, and a Summit showcase where participants share their work.

The festival culminates in the intimate Concert & Conversation on Saturday, 6 June at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, where resident songwriters perform and share the stories behind the songs created during the residency.

The festival was co-founded by Queensland songwriters Karen Jacobsen and Francesca de Valence to provide regional songwriters with professional development opportunities often only available in major cities.

Since its inception, the festival has hosted an impressive roster of artists including Wendy Matthews, Toni Childs, Vika and Linda, and Graeme Connors.

The Whitsundays Songwriter Festival creative residency runs from 3–7 June 2026, with the Songwriting Summit and Concert & Conversation taking place at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on 6 June. Tickets are available via Humanitix.

The 2026 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival is made possible by the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund, which supports the arts in regional and remote Australia. The festival is presented in partnership with I Heart Songwriting Club and the Whitsundays Arts Festival.

Captions

Photo supplied

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Friday 27 March

Eat Street and Live Music

6pm

Enjoy a vibrant day out at the upcoming Eat Street event, featuring live music, great food and family-friendly fun. Attendees can relax to the sounds of Jamesley while savouring a variety of food and drink options on offer. There will also be plenty to keep the kids entertained, including free activities and a gymnastics airtrack to burn off some energy. With something for all ages, the event promises a lively atmosphere and great night out!

Blue Water Quay, Mackay

City Heart Easter Fun

12pm

Families are invited to celebrate Easter with a fun-filled afternoon in the Mackay City Heart, hosted by Harper Bee and Mackay City and Waterfront. Running from 12pm to 5.30pm, the free event features an Easter egg hunt through local businesses, starting at Harper Bee with a clue-filled stamp card. Children can collect eggs before heading to the corner of Wood and Victoria Streets to meet the Easter Bunny. The afternoon also includes games, a colouring competition, Easter craft activities and a relaxing space for families to enjoy the festive atmosphere.

City Heart - 79 Victoria Street, Mackay

Saturday 28 March

Family Fun Day Colour Fun Run

2.30pm

Families are invited to Andergrove for a vibrant day of colour, fun and community spirit at the Family Fun Day Colour Fun Run. Hosted by Monty the Monstar, the event marks the launch of 2026 fundraising efforts for a new playground and upgraded play spaces across the school grounds. With plenty of laughter, colour and family-friendly activities, the day promises an energetic and enjoyable experience for all ages while supporting an exciting cause for the local school community.

DV Fundraiser – Broken Ballerina Inc

9am

Broken Ballerina Inc will be hosting a community fundraiser at Mount Pleasant Centre near Jamaica Blue, raising vital funds to support those impacted by domestic violence. Shoppers are encouraged to stop by and show their support, with Pete’s Caramel Slice, Jules’s Cupcakes and BBI merchandise all available for purchase. The event offers a meaningful way for the community to come together, enjoy some sweet treats and contribute to an important local cause.

Mount Pleasant Centre near Jamaica Blue

Monday 31 March

Seniors Chair Yoga

10.45am

Seniors aged 55 and over are invited to take part in the Northern Beaches Seniors Chair Yoga program, offering a gentle and accessible way to stay active, improve wellbeing and connect with others. Held on Mondays at Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia, the sessions focus on mindful movement, stretching and relaxation, all from the comfort of a chair. With a welcoming atmosphere, morning tea provided and a pay-as-you-go cost of $10, the program is ideal for those seeking a safe and social approach to fitness.

Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia

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Huge crowds turned out for the hotly anticipated Dancing with Heart 2026 last weekend, and they were not disappointed.

Loved ones, colleagues and sponsors watched on proudly as participants showed off their hard work, and sparked joy across the audience, dancing routines inspired by iconic performances, from Flashdance to Burlesque.

The amateur dancers became stars of the stage as they represented companies across Mackay, with contributors raising over $90,000 for the My Hospital Foundation, a local organisation dedicated to supporting patients tackling difficult health journeys at Mackay Hospital and Health Service.

1. Charity dancers braved the stage and raised life-changing funds

Whopping $90,000 Raised at Dancing with Heart

On Friday 20^th March, audiences at the MECC were wowed by Dancing with Heart’s fundraising showcase, where local businesspeople laced up their dancing shoes and gave the performance of a lifetime.

The dancers stepped and shimmied out of their comfort zones, hitting the stage to vie for the winning spot with routines developed with choreographer Dolly Louw and the talented dancers from Fame Talent School.

The event raised over $90,000 for the My Hospital Foundation, an amazing achievement made possible by the dancers, sponsors and attendees.

James Bailey from Wallace & Wallace took home the title of overall winner with an energetic routine set to Huey Lewis & The News’ Hip to Be Square. He also swept the award for highest fundraiser, raising a whopping $20,000 just on his own.

The people’s choice winner was Michael Kerr from Haymans Electrical, with an inspiring routine to Believe by Cher. All performances were exceptional, with the event cementing itself as a highlight of the Mackay community calendar.

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1 - Michael Kerr representing Hayman Electrical.
2- The seasoned pros backing the amateur dancers.

3 – Michea Kerr, Dirk Nuegebauer & James Bailey.

4 – Dancers from Mackay Fame Talent School provided amazing support.

5 –Chelsea Byrne, Tégan McGovern, Dolly Louw,  Sharon Johnston, Janine Jacobson.

6 - Janine Jacobson from Channel 7.

7 - Sharon Johnston from DBCT.

8- Winner James Bailey surrounded by supporters

9 – Dirk Nuegebauer cheered on by the crowd.

10 – James Bailey’s winning performance. Photo source: Facebook

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Friday 20 March

Dancing With Heart

6:30pm

A night of entertainment with a purpose, Dancing With Heart returns on Friday 20 March, bringing local personalities to the stage for a fun-filled dance competition. Guided by professional choreographers, participants will perform to raise funds for the My Hospital Foundation. Guests can enjoy dinner, vote for the People’s Choice Award and help support better outcomes for local patients and families.

Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

Saturday 21 March

New Moon Ultra “Off the Beaten Track” Trial Run Series

6am

Test your endurance at this unique overnight trail running event held under the March new moon. Athletes can choose from 6km, 36km or 72km distances, with races starting every hour from 6pm through to 6am. Prize money is up for grabs, and participants will take on exclusive trails only open for this event — making it a one-of-a-kind challenge for runners of all levels.

Rowallan Park

Dads and Bubs Baby Bounce

10am

Dads are invited to bond with their little ones at this fun and interactive Baby Bounce session. Featuring nursery rhymes, songs and playful activities, the session supports early language development from birth to walking age. It’s a great way to connect, create special memories and support your child’s growth. This is a free event, but bookings are essential.

Dudley Denny City Library

Autumn Orchid Show

Saturday 8am – 4pm & Sunday 9am – 2pm

The Mackay & District Orchid Society will host its annual Autumn Orchid Show on March 21–22 at the Senior Citizens Centre on Macalister Street, featuring a stunning display of flowering orchids alongside plants and gardening supplies for sale, including pots, potting medium, tags and hangers, with raffles and refreshments also available; the event runs from 8am to 4pm Saturday and 9am to 2pm Sunday, with a $2 coin entry, and further information is available by contacting President Noel Acton on 0409 637 384.

Senior Citizens Centre, Macalister Street

Rotary Charity Wine Dinner

5:30pm

Enjoy an elegant evening of fine food and wine at the Rotary Charity Wine Dinner on Saturday 21 March. Featuring a five-course degustation with wine pairings, the night also includes a wine auction, raffle and lucky door prizes. Proceeds support charities assisting women and children impacted by domestic violence. Guests can expect a memorable night of dining, giving and community spirit.

Harrup Park Country Club

Sunday 22 March

Cuppa With Your Neighbour – Northern Beaches

9am

Connect with your community at this free “Cuppa with Your Neighbour” event on Saturday 22 March at the Northern Beaches Community Hub. Enjoy a complimentary coffee while meeting locals and making new connections in a relaxed, friendly setting. Proudly supported by the Mackay Regional Council, this welcoming event is open to everyone — whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident.

Northern Beaches Community Hub

Tuesday 24 March

Walk and Talk Book Club

8am

Combine a love of reading with the outdoors at this unique walking book club set in the Botanic Gardens. Meet fortnightly for relaxed walks, chats and book discussions, with a new title to explore each month. Stay after for a social coffee and connect with fellow book lovers. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, sun protection and water for this enjoyable, wellbeing-focused community activity.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Wednesday 25 March

Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam

6pm

Enjoy a night of live music and laid-back vibes at the Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam on Wednesday 25 March at the Seabreeze Hotel. Featuring acclaimed pianist Andrew Farrell, the evening kicks off with a performance before opening the stage for a community jam session. Free entry, with dinner bookings recommended.

72 Pacific Esplanade, Mackay

Thursday 26 March

Wine Society March Event

6:30pm

Wine lovers are invited to the first Wine Society event of 2026 at The Dispensary Mackay on Thursday 26 March. Guests will enjoy an evening of exceptional wine tastings paired with a specially designed menu, hosted by Graeme Connors. Open to both new and returning guests, this relaxed event promises great wine, food and company.

The Dispensary Mackay

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The PCYC’s Awakening Spirits 2026 moved audiences on Wednesday 11 March with touching stories told through dance.

An audience of more than 1000 was drawn to watch 200 performers in a sold-out session at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.

Awakening Spirits is an annual performance that brings together young people from 13 schools across Mackay, who take part in PCYC's Cultural Arts in Dance program. Since beginning in 2022, the audience has rocketed from just 175 people to a sold-out audience at the convention centre this year.

The piece performed was ‘The Waterhole’, a concept and story developed by PCYC Queensland’s First Nations Coordinator and the man behind Cultural Arts In Dance, Patrick Thaiday. It is inspired by the magical stories of The Myths and Legends of the Torres Strait, a book written by the late Margaret Lawrie.

The story begins with Tilly, a white sulphur-crested cockatoo, who watches as a plume of smoke rises from the canopy of the Australian outback bush lands. Indigenous warriors and hunters from communities conduct a cultural burn – a land management practice refined over thousands of years. From her vantage point, Tilly observes the hunters moving alongside the fire’s perimeter, tracking animals displaced by its flames.

As the story goes on, the waterhole, long a point of convergence for countless species, begins to change. Tilly notices a dark, viscous substance appearing beneath the surface. Drawn by concern she descends to investigate. As her feet touch the water, the substance adheres to her feathers releasing harsh toxic fumes that engulf her feet. She takes flight only to be flipped over by the weight of her wings. Her bright plumage darkens rapidly, and her beak blackens under the spreading poison. When Tilly rises again, she is no longer the white cockatoo she once was. Transformed by the dark waters, she takes form of a willy wagtail – a creature associated with omens, messages, and transitions. This metamorphosis positions her within a larger conflict, linking her fate to forces that extend far beyond the waterholes edge.

Now known as Willy the Wagtail, she becomes a bearer of warnings and stories, navigating a world where ancient myth and emerging threats collide.

When the story of ‘The Waterhole’ ends, all performers returned to perform a choreographed dance to The Seekers song, I am Australian.

We are one, but we are many

And from all the lands on earth we come

We'll share a dream and sing with one voice

"I am, you are, we are Australian"

The bright smiles, excitement, and emotion from the performers did not leave many dry eyes in the auditorium; the room filling with a feeling: this is what we want our Australia to be.

Contributed with thanks to PCYC Queensland’s First Nations State Partnerships Manager Michael Cedar

1-4 - Spirits were high as Mackay’s young dancing stars took to the stage. Photos supplied.

Follow the Sun’ to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music

Xavier Rudd, Mental as Anything, The Whitlams and more on first lineup announcement for November 2026

The call is out for fans of Xavier Rudd to ‘Follow the Sun’ to the 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music from November 6-8.

Set to arrive straight from a European festival tour, the popular Australian singer-songwriter says in addition to his much-loved catalogue of hits, a few surprises are in store for the Whitsunday audience, hinting: “There will be some new music at this show, which will be played for the first time in Australia”.

Having visited Airlie Beach briefly on previous Australian tours, Rudd is already familiar with the region’s scenic beauty, but this will be his first time playing its signature event, dubbed a ‘party in paradise’ and the ‘ultimate music holiday’.

“From the photos I’ve seen, the festival setting is amazing,” he said.

“My music is definitely a celebration of our natural world, so a place like Airlie feels especially aligned with songs like ‘Follow the Sun’.

“These are the kinds of shows I love, and hopefully, weather permitting, we can actually pull down the tent and play under the stars!”

Equally as famous for his unwavering commitment to social and environmental activism as he is for his extraordinary gifts as a musician, the significance of playing at a destination known as the ‘Heart of the Great Barrier Reef’ isn’t lost on Rudd.

“I’ve been lucky to witness some of the good work that people are doing in the world of reef regeneration and that’s inspiring,” he said.

“Hopefully we can continue down that path.”

Also urging festivalgoers to ‘Live it Up’ in Airlie Beach is beloved Australian band Mental As Anything, whose performance will form part of a historic 50^th anniversary tour, comprising a limited number of exclusive festival appearances and select metropolitan headline shows.

Original member and iconic pop artist, Reg Mombassa, is promising fans a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience the band’s timeless hits live once more, and celebrate their unique blend of songwriting, artistry, and performance flair.

“We’re known for being a party band, so the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is a perfect fit,” he said.

In total agreeance that there’s ‘No Aphrodisiac’ quite like it are The Whitlams, whose frontman Tim Freedman says the band is thrilled to be one of the festival’s headliners for 2026.

“I’ve been wanting to return to the Whitsundays for decades and now we have the chance,” he said, adding: “it’s a great line-up, music lifts the soul, and we rock!”

Other additions to the first line-up release include The Radiators, Adam Harvey, 19-Twenty, Skinny Living (UK), Little Quirks, The Mason Rack Band, The Wayward Suns, Loonaloop, Salt & Steel and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2025 Passport to Airlie competition winners Monroe.

Tickets are on sale now at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au costing $325 for a three-day pass, or $1100 for a VIP package, both including entry to the opening and after parties that bookend the main event.

Ends

Media Enquiries: media@airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au / 0402 126 461

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On Monday 16^th March, North Queensland–raised Judah Kelly attended the 98^th Academy Awards in Los Angeles, where the short film he starred in, The Singers, was awarded an Oscar.
The film tied for the win with another short film, in an Oscars occurrence that whilst rare, is indeed possible. This is a huge achievement that represents years of hard work, building craft and nurturing talent; Judah has no doubt made the community incredibly proud.

Born in Townsville, Judah attended school in Bowen where he took part in various school choirs, an experience that inspired his musicianship and developed his performance capabilities. He continued his secondary education in Mackay before attending the Junior Academy of Country Music in Tamworth (NSW).

Judah auditioned for the X Factor in 2012 and 2014. Despite not finding success, he was not deterred, deciding to audition for The Voice in 2017. After singing ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ in a blind audition he made it through the finals, where he became the official winner of the sixth season.

His newest achievement is receiving the Oscar as one of the stars of short film The Singers, which received an award for Best Live Action Short at 98^th Academy Awards.

Directed by filmmaker Sam Davis, the film is an 18-minute musical comedy which centres around a spontaneous singing competition that breaks out amongst a group of random patrons in a dive bar. The film is based on the 1850 Ivan Turgenev story of the same name.

Prior to the academy awards, the film had already won 35 awards across 50 film festivals in 2025.

Judah’s inclusion in the film came out of a unique casting process. Rather than hiring actors through traditional means, filmmaker Sam Davis spent months scouring the internet for authentic voices he believed would bring the story to life. As a result, Judah was sought out for his raw vocal talent.

“At first they emailed me to ask me to be in the film and I don’t act so I thought it was just a scam”, Judah said in an interview to Channel Nine’s Today Show prior to the ceremony.

“They were very persistent with getting me to act. Then I found out everyone was a first-time actor and we all thought it was a scam. It turned out they did want us for a film – it’s about men and vulnerability”.

Following the victory, Judah took to Instagram to express his joy.

“We don’t even know how to act. Our film just won an Oscar!”

The film tied with another short feature marking only the seventh time in Oscars’ history that a category closed with two winners.

This is a fantastic achievement, and Judah should be incredibly proud of his efforts. He has certainly made communities across Bowen and Mackay immensely proud.

Captions

Judah Kelly, local legend fresh from Oscar win. Photo sourced: Facebook

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Having grown up in Germany and Switzerland, Lukas developed an early appreciation for the importance of finding the right place to call home. Having experienced relocation firsthand, he understands both the excitement and challenges that come with moving. Fluent in English and German, Lukas enjoys working with a wide range of clients and prides himself on being able to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

For the past 13 years, Lukas has proudly called the Whitsundays home. Over that time, he has developed a deep understanding of the region, its lifestyle, and its property market. His strong local knowledge allows him to guide buyers and sellers with confidence while helping them make informed decisions.

Before entering the real estate industry, Lukas earned a degree in Marine Engineering and built a successful career in the maritime sector. That experience shaped the professional approach he brings to his work today, instilling a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a practical problem-solving mindset that benefits his clients throughout their property journey.

Lukas joined the TAYLORS team in 2020 as a Sales Assistant, working closely with Brad Sobott and gaining valuable industry knowledge and market insight. In 2025, he stepped into his role as a standalone agent, bringing his experience, dedication, and enthusiasm to every transaction.

Passionate about helping people achieve their property goals, Lukas is committed to delivering a smooth, transparent, and rewarding experience for both buyers and sellers in the Whitsundays community.

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This poem from my Grandpa Bob is entitled ‘Birth’. Thanks to my parents for supplying it. I’d also like to dedicate this corner to my Mum, who lost her father and brother in a very short span of time. This week’s corner is for her.

BIRTH

this is my hand

this is my eye

wave the one

with the other’s cry

noise is anger

flood is kindness

joy is vision

fear is blindness

wet is short

dry is long

night a silence

day a song

good is a smile

bad is a frown

the first lift up

the second put down

knowing is start

not knowing is stop

interesting is pick up

boring is drop

looking is memory

hiding is forgetting

wrong is stopping

right is letting

that is wind

this is rain

there is light

here is pain

that is laughter

this a sigh

how much to know

before I die

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Rising star Katie Jayne is set to take to the stage at Airlie Beach Hotel for two free shows, guaranteed to entertain. The eclectic performer boasts an impressive resume, having given standout performances at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Deni Ute Muster, PBR Australia and major festival rodeo stages across the country.

Katie began her music career at the age of 25 when she moved to London, forming her first band Southern Junction who went on to play at the Isle of Wight Festival and London O2 Arena. After returning to Australia, Katie found her voice as a solo artist and hasn’t looked back since.

“I’m at a point now where I know who I am and what I have to say and I’m ready to just go out there and play as many shows as I can around Australia”, said Katie.

With her unique blend of modern country fire with traditional soul, Katie Jayne is fast becoming one of the most exciting new voices in modern Australian country music. With over 400,000 Spotify streams on her latest single, KIX Country Top 20 chart success and high rotation on CMC, Katie has cemented herself as a rising star.

“It’s so great to be able to put on a country show in Airlie Beach. Australian artists are often overlooked in country music so it’s wonderful to have this opportunity. I’m very excited to bring my music up there.”

Katie encourages everyone to come for an afternoon of high energy and no-nonsense country storytelling.

“Come along, even if you’re not a country fan. We don’t take ourselves too seriously. We just like to have fun and play.”

WHAT: Katie Jayne, two Free Shows

WHEN: Saturday 21^st March, Sunday 22^nd March, 2pm – 5.30pm

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

The Airlie Beach Hotel will also feature an additional special treat with the Mackay Line Dancers. This fun event will give everyone a chance to get up and have fun in between band sets, with inclusive dance party’s for everyone to get involved

WHAT: Mackay Line Dancers, Free Lessons

WHEN: Saturday 21^st March, Sunday 22^nd March, 11am-12pm, 2.50pm-3.20pm, 4.10-4.40pm

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

Captions

Rising Australian country artist Katie Jayne will perform two free shows at the Airlie Beach Hotel later this month. Photo supplied

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When the lights rise and the music begins at this year’s Dancing With Heart, one familiar local face will be stepping onto the stage with courage, glamour and a little theatrical flair.

By day, Janine works as Sales Manager with Seven Network, helping local businesses connect with audiences across the region through television advertising. Many residents also recognise her from the weekly “What’s On This Weekend” segment on 7 Local News, where her vibrant personality shines as she highlights the events bringing the community together.

While her confident and bubbly nature is well known, Janine admits the journey to the dance floor has pushed her well outside her comfort zone.

“Most people see the confident bubbly side of me, but what they don’t see is how much I push through nerves and self-doubt behind the scenes.”

Her routine promises plenty of personality and theatrical flair.

“Oh, we are bringing drama! My routine is theatrical and glamorous! Think sass, storytelling, big expressions,” she says.

“And yes… I’ll be gracefully (hopefully!) making my way down the stairs. If I don’t? Well, at least it’ll be memorable and I promise I’ll fall with flair.”

What have you found the most difficult?

Remembering the choreography while my brain is busy going, “Don’t mess up, don’t mess up!”… I truly want to do it justice.

What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation?

That the funds raised stay right here in our community, directly supporting local hospital services, patients and families. You never know when you or someone you love might need that care, which makes the Foundation’s work so meaningful. It’s also incredibly inspiring to stand alongside the other contestants as we’re all stepping outside our comfort zones and working together to raise as much as we can for such an important cause.

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Known around Mackay as much for his quick wit as his business acumen, Michael Kerr has spent 26 years supplying electrical products to the local industry. Off the clock, he’s equally active on the field, coaching senior rugby league at Wests – a role that keeps him connected to the community in a very hands-on way.

“I’ve been selling electrical products to the local electrical industries for 26 years,” Michael says.

Coaching at Wests Senior Rugby League also keeps him involved with local families and players.

Now, he’s hoping to be remembered for one very special move: the worm.

“I’d like to be remembered for the worm.”

Despite not coming from a dance background, Michael has embraced rehearsals with enthusiasm.

“I’ve really enjoyed the process of learning the dance moves. I have no real style, but Dolly from Fame has found a way to move a besser block around a dance floor,” he jokes.

For Michael, the experience has been equal parts fun, community-minded, and a chance to stretch beyond his comfort zone, all for a cause that touches every local family.

What’s been the most challenging?

The soreness.

What do you value most about My Hospital Foundations work?

The funds raised by the foundation go towards purchasing new, up-to-date hospital equipment, which enables the hospital to provide better services to its patients. The more the community gets behind it, the better the hospital can serve everyone, and that’s very important, because at some stage, we all will need the hospital’s services.

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If there’s a community event happening in Mackay, chances are Sharon Johnston isn’t far away. As Manager of Public Relations at Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal Pty Ltd, known locally as Daly Bay, Sharon plays a vital role in connecting the company with the region it proudly supports.

From coordinating Daly Bay’s extensive sponsorship program to representing the organisation at events, launches and community initiatives, Sharon’s role keeps her constantly on the move.

“My job is to look after Daly Bay’s sponsorship program and community relations, along with other public relations and communication activities,” she explains.

With the company supporting a wide range of organisations across the region each year, Sharon has become a familiar face around town.

“Mayor Greg Williamson often jokes I’m following him as we’re often at the same events,” she laughs.

Beyond her professional role, Sharon also dedicates her time to the My Hospital Foundation Board, making her involvement in Dancing With Heart an easy decision.

“There was no way I was going to get away with not dancing this year!”

What have you found the most difficult?

Trying to remember everything in order has taken a bit of time. I was relieved I didn’t have to do a body roll, but unfortunately, I’m also not good at back pops, and I’ve got to do a couple of those.

What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work?

My favourite piece of equipment was a Cardio Echo Machine for children. Prior to My Hospital Foundation purchasing this piece of equipment, families had to travel to Brisbane monthly for their child to have a routine scan. This outcome made a huge difference to local families. It’s what inspired me to put up my hand to be on the board.

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Friday, 13^th March

Cuppa With Your Neighbour – Marian

8am

Enjoy a free coffee and friendly conversation at “Cuppa with Your Neighbour” at Vintage Kiss, 4 Anzac Avenue, Marian, from 8am to 10am on Friday, 13 March. Proudly supported by Mackay Regional Council’s Community Programs Team, the relaxed gathering offers residents a chance to connect, meet neighbours and strengthen community ties in a welcoming setting. Everyone is encouraged

Vintage Kiss (4 Anzac Avenue, Marian)

Crochet and Conversation

9am

Locals are invited to enjoy a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Open to everyone—from experienced crafters to beginners or those simply keen for a chat—the gathering encourages community connection in a friendly setting. Bring your own crochet tools or borrow from the communal box, grab a coffee and join the group. Just look for the table with the yarn.

Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia

Eat Street and Live Music

From 5pm

Head to Bluewater Quay from 5pm for an evening of Eat Street delights, live music and family-friendly fun. Enjoy a relaxed riverside atmosphere with live entertainment from Jamesley, while children can burn off some energy with free activities, including a Gymnastics Airtrack. With plenty of food and drink available, it’s a great opportunity for locals and visitors to gather and enjoy the waterfront.

Blue Water Quay, Mackay

Saturday 14^th March

Mackay Wood Turners Craft Expo

From 9am

The Mackay Woodturners Craft Expo will return on Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 March at Snow Wright Court, off Beaconsfield Road in Andergrove. Open from 9am to 3pm both days, the free community event offers visitors the chance to explore handcrafted timber pieces, meet local woodturners and learn more about the craft in a relaxed, family-friendly setting. Everyone is welcome to come along and take a look.

Snow Wright Court, off Beaconsfield Road, Andergrove

Breast Cancer Support Group Monthly Meeting

10am

Breast cancer patients and survivors at any stage of their journey are invited to attend a supportive monthly gathering hosted by the Mackay Breast Cancer Support Group. The meeting will be held from 10am to 12pm in the Meeting Room at the Mackay Botanical Gardens, with roadside parking available along Lagoon Street. The morning includes introductions, a confidential sharing space and morning tea. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small share plate, with tea, coffee and water provided.

Mackay Botanical Gardens Meeting Room

Art Exhibition and Competition

10am

Art lovers are invited to explore the Artist and Art Exhibition and Competition, running from 14 to 22 March 2026 at 2 Snow Wright Court, Beaconsfield, Mackay. With free entry, visitors can browse a diverse range of artworks by talented artists, all available for purchase. The exhibition offers a great opportunity to support local creatives while enjoying an inspiring display of art.

2 Snow Wright Court, Beaconsfield, Mackay

Sunday 15^th March

Barefoot Bowls

9am
Try Barefoot Bowls at Marian Bowls Club on Reg Smith Street from 9am to 11am. The relaxed session welcomes beginners and experienced players alike, offering a fun way to keep active and meet new people. Bowls are supplied, and participants are encouraged to wear flat-soled shoes or go barefoot and bring a hat. A sausage sizzle will follow the game. For details, phone John on 4959 2766.

Marian Bowls Club, Reg Smith Street

Kucom Presents: The Ties That Bind

7.30pm

The Ties That Bind, a season of one-act plays, will take to the stage at Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove. Performances run Thursday 12, Friday 13 and Saturday 14 March at 7.30pm, with a Sunday matinee on 15 March at 2pm. Theatre lovers are invited to come along and enjoy an engaging evening of local live performance.

Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove

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