Whale from last season breaching. Photo supplied  

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By Zach Houtenville

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As whales return to Whitsunday waters for another migration season, a newly deployed underwater hydrophone will quietly listen around the clock, helping researchers learn more about the gentle giants and the marine environment they call home.  

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It's that time of year when humpback whales begin returning to Whitsunday waters, with their tell-tale spouts once again appearing off the coast. While sightings have been slower than usual, strong winds are believed to be the reason.

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“There's been a few sightings, but not as many as usual. However, we've had a lot of extreme wind,” said Kellie Leonard, Master Reef Guide and Whale of the Whitsundays member.

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Despite the slow start, Kellie is confident the season will soon pick up and potentially be better than the years before.  

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“It seems that year on year the numbers are increasing,” Kellie said.

“The Whitsundays is a wild heritage site and that's because It's a major birthing ground.  

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“So a lot of the whales that are here first are the pregnant females who are looking to find a place where they're actually going to give birth and then they stay in that area for a few weeks afterwards.”

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This has led to Dr Olaf Meynecke, who heads up the Whale & Climate Program at Griffith University, to partner with Whales of the Whitsundays and google AI, to come back for their second year to conduct their acoustic research on the East Coast humpback whale migration using hydrophone technology.  

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The technology was dropped into the ocean last week, and will use data recorded from the sounds and songs of the whales to judge the health of the ecosystem, map migration patterns, mating calls and competitive behaviours.

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“It'll be down until October and then we'll go back down and retrieve it,” said Kellie.

“It can give us an idea of these other species of whales around or what's actually in the ocean that you might not normally see.”

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This is one of eight that have been deployed on the east coast from Batemans Bay to the Ribbon Reefs off Cooktown.  

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Last year's project generated more than 10 terabytes of data across 55,000 recordings, helping train Google AI to identify whale vocalisations and other marine life.

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As the 2026 migration continues, researchers hope this year’s hydrophone will add more valuable recordings to the mix, helping protect one of Australia's most important humpback whale habitats while ensuring future generations can continue to experience the annual migration.

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How education empowers families through pregnancy, birth and beyond

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One of the biggest challenges facing modern parents isn’t a lack of information. It’s the sheer amount of it.

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A quick online search can provide thousands of answers about pregnancy, birth, feeding, sleep, and recovery. Social media, friends, and family often add even more advice.

Yet despite living in a time of endless information, many parents tell me they feel more overwhelmed than ever.

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As a pelvic floor and women’s health physiotherapist, I see the power of good education every day. Knowledge doesn’t remove every challenge that comes with pregnancy, birth, or parenthood, but it can transform how we experience them. It replaces fear with understanding, uncertainty with confidence, and confusion with informed decision-making.

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Pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period bring significant change. Understanding what’s normal, when to seek help, and what support is available can help families feel more prepared and empowered during one of life’s biggest transitions.

But not all education is created equal.

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In a world where information is available at our fingertips, it can be difficult to know what to trust. Social media can be a wonderful source of connection, but it can also expose families to misinformation, fear-based messaging, and advice that isn’t supported by research.

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That’s why access to high-quality, evidence-based education is so important. Good education doesn’t tell people what to do. Instead, it provides accurate information, explains the options available, and empowers people to make decisions that are right for themselves and their families.

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When parents have access to trusted information and local support, they are more likely to seek help early, ask questions, and feel confident raising a family.

It’s also why events that bring health professionals, support services, and families together can be so valuable.

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Recently, our community came together at the Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond Expo, where hundreds of local families connected with professionals, support groups, and businesses supporting pregnancy, birth, babies, and parenthood. Throughout the day, families had access to evidence-based information and the opportunity to ask questions directly to local professionals.

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One of the most rewarding parts of the day wasn’t simply sharing information; it was seeing conversations happen. Parents asking questions. Expectant mothers feeling reassured. Families discovering services they didn’t know existed. For many, it was a reminder that support is closer than they think.

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The expo was also a wonderful reminder of how fortunate we are in Mackay. We have an incredible network of professionals, organisations, educators, and businesses who genuinely care about supporting families. Seeing them together highlighted the strength of our community and the village supporting families through every stage of their journey.

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A heartfelt thank you to all the exhibitors, sponsors, and families who attended, and to our major sponsors, Daly Bay, NG Gyne Health Care, BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA), and Women’s Health Physio Mackay, whose support helped make the event possible.

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Education won’t make parenting perfect. There will still be sleepless nights and unexpected challenges. But access to trusted, evidence-based information gives families something incredibly valuable: confidence. And confidence has a way of changing everything.

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Because empowered parents don’t just build healthier families. They build stronger, healthier communities too.

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Cane Cutter Memorial. Photo source: Mackay Isaac Tourism  

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Markets

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Marian Markets

Held on the 3rd Sunday of every month from 8am to 12pm, the Marian Markets are set within the grounds of the Holy Rosary Church at Marian. Visitors can enjoy a great variety of stalls, delicious food, and a welcoming community atmosphere, making it a lovely way to spend a Sunday morning.

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Pinnacle Markets

The Pinnacle Markets are held on the 3rd Sunday of each month from 9am to 1pm at the Pinnacle Family Hotel. Featuring a range of local stalls and community spirit, the markets are a great opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy a relaxed day out. Stallholder bookings can be made by calling 4958 5207. Markets will continue monthly through to September.

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Eungella Community Markets

Held on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 9am to 1pm at the Eungella Memorial Hall, 5 North Street, Eungella, the Eungella Community Markets offer a family friendly experience in an undercover, air conditioned, all weather venue. With local stalls and picnic areas available, it is a great reason to visit the beautiful Eungella region and enjoy a day in the community.

Top 3 Attractions To Visit

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Eungella National Park

• Perched high above the plains, Eungella National Park is a mist-shrouded mountain refuge known for its rich wildlife and spectacular views over the Pioneer Valley. Visitors can enjoy rainforest walks, picnic beside Broken River, and even spot platypus in the gently flowing water while exploring one of Queensland’s most ecologically diverse parks. Located: Eungella Dam Road  

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Platypus at Eungella National Park. Photo source: parks.qld.gov.au

Finch Hatton Gorge

• Explore Finch Hatton Gorge in the breathtaking Pioneer Valley, where rainforest trails lead to stunning natural wonders including Araluen Waterfall and the dramatic Wheel of Fire Cascades. Surrounded by lush rainforest, volcanic boulders and cascading waterfalls, the gorge offers a memorable escape for those seeking beauty, adventure and a refreshing swim. Located: Finch Hatton Gorge Road

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Finch Hatton Gorge. Photo source: parks.qld.gov.au

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Cane Cutter Memorial

• Stop at the Cane Cutter Memorial in Edward Lloyd Park, beside the historic Melba House. The 1994 statue honours the pioneering families who helped shape the Marian district and celebrates the region’s rich cane farming heritage. Located: 4 Anzac Avenue, Marian

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Queensland Theatre’s Calamity Jane will give PEC audiences the chance to sit on stage inside Deadwood's famous Golden Garter Saloon, becoming part of the production itself. Photos supplied

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The Wild West comes to Proserpine this October and for some lucky audience members, the action won’t just be happening on stage.  

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Queensland Theatre's acclaimed production of Calamity Jane is heading to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, with tickets now on sale.  

Alongside traditional theatre seating, a limited number of patrons will have the chance to sit on stage inside Deadwood's famous Golden Garter Saloon, becoming part of the production itself.  

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The immersive experience places audience members as drinkers, gamblers and bystanders of a chaotic wild west saloon, blurring the lines of being a performer and a spectator.  

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Director Richard Carroll first brought this depiction to life in 2016, before adding in the colour and flare of staging when it hit the mainstage in 2018.  

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“There is such a liveliness to this show, a sense among the cast and audience that ‘we’re all in this together’,” Richard said.

“A genuine intimacy and authenticity comes from immersing the audience in the production, and making them part of the on stage action.”  

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Based on the famous 1950s Doris Day musical film, the production takes audiences back to the American frontier, following the adventures of sharpshooter Calamity Jane, played by Queensland star Naomi Price.  

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The revival celebrates the unpredictable nature of the unconventional western women, challenging gender stereotypes while also showing true vulnerability and bravery.  

“In a time when men called the shots and a place where lawlessness ruled, Calamity was this legendary woman, a daredevil who unapologetically refused to play by anyone else’s rules,” Naomi said.  

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“To play such a pioneering woman who – decades later – is still so admired and adored is a genuine privilege,and I can’t wait to kick open the saloon doors.”  

The production also features some of musical theatre's most beloved songs, including Secret Love, The Deadwood Stage, Just Blew In From The Windy City and The Black Hills of Dakota.

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Performed through a piano-led score, the familiar tunes help breathe new life into the frontier classic while preserving the charm that has captivated audiences for more than 70 years.

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With high demand expected, particularly for the limited on-stage saloon seating, theatre-goers are encouraged to secure their place before tickets sell out.

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What: Queensland Theatre’s Calamity Jane  

Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

When: October 3rd, Tickets on sale now.

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Dirty Deeds Airlie Beach performance from 2023, Mick on the Guitar. Photo source: Dirty Deeds  

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Rock fans are set for a high-voltage start to the weekend when Australia's leading AC/DC tribute act, Dirty Deeds, takes centre stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel this July 4th and 5th.

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This sensational tribute act will get the crowd pumping with a stage-rocking performance, bringing AC/DC's iconic hits to life in a show dedicated to both frontman Bon Scott and his successor, Brian Johnson.

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“If you're looking for some good rock and roll, some authentic ACDC covers, Come down,” said Grant Allen, who rocks Bon Scott. 

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“We're a must-see, and you won't be disappointed.”

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The NSW-based tribute band has spent the past two decades touring the country, delivering a high-voltage performance and a passionate commitment to recreating the sound and spirit of one of Australia's greatest rock bands.

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“This is our era of music that we grew up with and we want to keep that spirit alive as long as possible,” said Allen. 

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“It’s all about keeping a legacy alive to make sure that the younger generation enjoy it too.”

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With Grant taking on the role of Bon Scott and Scotty stepping into the shoes of Brian Johnson, the band performs songs from every era of AC/DC, delivering a setlist packed with fan favourites spanning decades of rock history.

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Supporting them, is Michael Ward on drums as Phil Rudd, Mike Sheehan on bass as Cliff Williams and Dylan Hartas on rhythm guitar as Cliff Williams, combining decades of experience to recreate the unmistakable sound, energy and power that made AC/DC one of the world's greatest rock bands. 

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Completing the lineup is Mick Pelligrini, wielding his iconic Gibson SG in tribute to AC/DC guitarist Angus Young. Dressed in the trademark school uniform and armed with a wireless guitar system, Mick roams through the crowd under the band's "Jailbreak Spotlight", delivering the solos and high-energy stage presence that made Angus Young a rock legend.

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Their all-star list of world-wide gigs include headline appearances at the Snowy Bike Ride in Thredbo, performances at the Kidgeeridge Music Festival and Cops and Rodders charity fundraiser, as well as Australia Day celebrations, corporate events and countless pub and club shows. With years of experience bringing AC/DC's music to life on stage, Dirty Deeds draws the crowd wherever it performs. 

Whether you're a lifelong AC/DC fan or simply looking for a lively afternoon at your favourite local pub, Dirty Deeds promises a weekend of classic rock, big riffs and plenty of energy at the Airlie Beach Hotel. 

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What: Dirty Deeds AC/DC Show 

When: July 4 and 5, 2026  

Where: Airlie Beach Hotel 

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Captain W E Hood  

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How many people remember visiting the dentist in earlier times when repairing, extracting, and replacing teeth could be far more daunting than the procedures used in dental surgeries today? Yet one local dentist from more than a century ago -William Elvyn Hood - appears to have inspired confidence in his patients rather than fear.

William Elvyn Hood was born in Childers, Queensland on October 6, 1900. He decided to study dentistry, but this faculty was available only in Sydney. Upon graduating from Sydney University, he was registered as a dentist on January 17, 1922. Soon after that, he commenced in the Bowen practice of dentist George Beresford.

Mr. Hood made monthly visits to Proserpine, travelling by horse and sulky. During that time, he recognised that a fulltime practice in this district was viable. In January 1923, Mr. Percival Meredith sold his Proserpine dentistry business to Mr. Hood, who began in Proserpine on February 3 of that year. In May, he set up permanently in the town, originally establishing his practice at Mrs. Beames’ shop which was situated near the Grand Central Hotel, which was first opened in the old chemist shop back in 1916. Elvyn later relocated to Chapman Street just around the corner opposite the Eldorado Picture theatre.

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He certainly aimed to please his patients, as his working hours, set out in an advertisement in 1931, were 9am to 5pm on Mondays to Fridays; 7pm to 8pm on Thursday and Saturday nights and 2pm to 3:30pm on Saturday afternoons. If none of those times were suitable, he would open for special appointments, as well as providing discounts for family work.

W E Hood married Gladys Iris Trail on March 21, 1926. At the start of WWII, his family consisted of five children, Robin, Prue, Elvyn, Vivienne and Rosemary. He enlisted for war service in June of 1940 and was commissioned as Captain in 2/11 Field Ambulance in 1941. He served at Yeppoon and Redbank before going overseas with the Australian Dental Unit in New Guinea at Milne Bay, Port Moresby and Samarai. Upon his discharge on compassionate grounds on March 1, 1945, he immediately resumed his practice.  

In his early days, he was known as Elvyn, but post-war people called him Bill. After the war, Hood engaged a dental mechanic, Mr. H Frost, who had been recently discharged from the Services.

Mr. Hood was known all over Queensland for his beautiful gold fillings. His daughter, Prue, recalled, “He made all his dentures and fillings the hard way, using plaster of Paris moulds. The workshop always seemed full of fine white powder.”

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His son, Elvyn, remembered some of the charges from those early days. Extraction of baby teeth cost 1/- (10cents) and an ordinary extraction cost 2/- (20 cents). The price from amalgam fillings was 2/6 to 5/- (25 to 50 cents), and gold inlays were from £1/1/- to £2/2/- ($2.10 to $4.20). Imagine paying 5 pounds ($10) for a full set of upper and lower dentures and 2 to 3 pounds ($4 to $6) for a partial set.

Mr. Hood was a great lover of sport. He played golf and was club champion many times. In later years, he played bowls. He enjoyed shooting ducks and quail at Goorganga, and fishing was another hobby.

William Hood died on February 14, 1964. He was 63 and had been the local dentist for 40 years. Due to his excellent work, for years many people boasted of the fillings they had – all done by the late Mr. Hood.

Story and advertisements sourced from PHMS archives and “Proserpine Guardian”. Photo sourced from National Archives war records.

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Renders of the 34 brand new rooms are giving us a peep into Airlie Beach Hotel’s latest expansion. Image supplied  

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The Airlie Beach Hotel is expanding its accommodation offering, announcing 34 new rooms available to book from 31st August.

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The renovation includes spacious private ensuites, ocean and village side options, and a new range of studio rooms with configurations to suit bookings of up to six. The decor is reported to boast neutral hues, light wood tones, minimalist bathrooms and expansive windows.

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The 34 new rooms, all located on the 1st floor, will soon be ready to welcome honeymooners exploring the Whitsundays locale, friends looking for a getaway, or families excited to soak up the sun. According to a spokesperson, “The hotel is the ideal destination.”  

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“These new rooms give guests a few more ways to stay right in the middle of it all,” said  

Sandy Muscat, Venue Manager at Airlie Beach Hotel.  

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“Close to the lagoon, the boats, the Esplanade, and the pub downstairs. People can spend the day out on the Whitsundays, come back with salty hair and sandy feet, and still make it in time for dinner, live music or the game. That’s very Airlie, and that’s what we love about this place.”

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The Airlie Beach Hotel has been operating since 1968, its long-standing success cemented by this latest expansion.  

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Guests are partly drawn to its iconic pub, which has held a reputation as a staple of Airlie Beach nightlife for over 50 years. The venue has developed a busy entertainment calendar which they credit for turning the venue into a meeting point for locals, as well as holidaymakers and guests.  

Weekly events include Musical Bingo, APL Poker and Acoustic sessions, plus a run of major gigs, tribute shows and live sport- the venue marks the NRL Grand Final on 4^th October as an upcoming highlight, with former Parramatta Eels winger Eric Grothe to be in attendance.

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A central location on the Airlie Esplanade is also a major draw.  

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“Guests enjoy the benefits of being right on the water, close to all the local amenities and stroll along the promenade.” A spokesperson shared.  

“Guests are also able to book their tours of the Whitsunday Islands through the venue.

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“Not only does the Hotel provide guests with optimal access to the Whitsunday Islands, but it is also only 500 metres away from the Airlie Beach Lagoon.

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“The pub overlooks parklands and the beach, giving guests a place to eat, drink and gather without leaving the property.  The bistro serves lunch and dinner, spanning seafood, open flame grill steaks, pizzas, burgers and pub classics.”  

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The Airlie Beach Hotel’s new rooms will be completed and ready for guests from the end of August. Bookings are open now.  

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Photo source: Mackay Festivals (Facebook)

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Two Weeks Of Festival Fun For The Whole Family In July

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Colour, movement and ancient storytelling will collide under the open sky when the 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts begins on July 4th with an Indigenous-led contemporary circus spectacular. 

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Living Sculptures: How the Birds Got Their Colours is created by ARC Circus Co in collaboration with Luther Cora and Yugambeh Aboriginal Dancers.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the first fortnight of the 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts aligns with the school holidays, providing a wide range of events for the whole family to enjoy.

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“How the Birds Got Their Colours is a fantastic family-friendly show that will be held in our beautiful Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“The show celebrates diversity, identity and shared humanity through song, dance and spectacular acrobatics,” he said.

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Also featured in the Mackay Festival of Arts’ opening weeks is the immersive family experience, Sea of Light.

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“This beautiful show allows kids and adults alike to use a UV torch as a paintbrush and paint or stencil a voyage that will leave glowing paths of light in their wake,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Sea of Light artworks have been created by Aboriginal contemporary visual artist Elizabeth Close and are painted in light across the sea floor, reflecting the connection between land, sea, earth and water,” he said.

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Sea of Light will be on Wednesday 8^th July to Saturday 11^th July, at the MECC Plenary Halls.

Another great show, just for the adults, will be the hilarious comedy showcase Late Nite PowerPoint.

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Following sell-out seasons at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Adelaide Fringe, this show features five comedians performing five different PowerPoints in a show that’s begging for technical difficulties.

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The Showcase will be on at Farview Tavern on Friday 10^th July and at Club Northern Beaches on Saturday 11^th July.

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Mackay Festival of Arts will also provide the following activities:

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• On July 1^st DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season Fractured Fairy Tales, where classic stories have been tipped upside down and are all in a muddle at the MECC Auditorium.

• On July 4^th Malta’s culinary heritage will take the spotlight in Malta on a Plate at the Vintage Farmhouse Kitchen, Marian.

• On July 6^th Cirque Nouvelle will thrill the whole family with acrobatics, juggling, aerials, balancing and jaw-dropping feats at the MECC Auditorium.

• On July 10^th  the NAIDOC Street Parade and Family Fun Day will again celebrate culture, community and connection at Queens Park.

• On July 11^th all the flare of the Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling will return to the Bluewater Quay.

• Plus, so much more.

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The second half of the festival will also be jam-packed with amazing events, including crowd favourites Wisely Wine and Food Day, Daly Bay Illuminate, Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub and the Friends of the MECC Jazz Brunch.

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For more information on the full festival program, visit ourmackay.com.au/festivals

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Photo credit Edie Weiss

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Last Sunday’s scheduled outing saw nine members of the Bushwalkers’ Club visiting several lookouts, enjoying two sections of beach, and exploring a variety of habitats within the Slade Point Natural Resource Reserve. The group was led by Edie on a very pleasant winter’s day.

Unlike most walks undertaken by the club recently, this one was designed to be relaxing, accessible to all ability levels, and very close by. The reserve was entered from Teal Street, and the early morning light created a special atmosphere as participants followed the track which would guide them to a point between North Wall and Lambert’s Beach. Stunning views of the offshore islands, distant mountains and long stretches of sand were an incentive for the cameras to appear.

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Morning tea break was enjoyed in the luxury of a shelter with a table and seating for once, and the day was rounded off with visits to two more lookouts, another beach and lunch, before returning to the cars.

To become part of the club and participate in the range of activities on the calendar over the next few months, the number to contact is 0429 363 929. 

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Contributed by Carole Weekes

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Photo credit: Coffee and Hops

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Sponsors and supporters of BMA CQ Rescue recently gathered at the rescue service's hangar for the latest HeliCore Collective event, an initiative designed to connect supporters with the life-saving service they help make possible.

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The evening provided opportunities for networking, connection and exclusive behind-the-scenes access, with guests hearing from CEO Tim Healee and Board Member Bill Cooper.

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Attendees also enjoyed a live winching demonstration narrated by Safety Manager Danny Ullmer, with raffle winner Cheryl Green stepping into the role of patient to gain a first-hand insight into the rescue capabilities of the service.

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BMA CQ Rescue said the ongoing support of HeliCore Collective members plays an important role in helping ensure the service remains ready to respond when every second counts.

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See all photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/sponsors-gain-first-hand-look-at-rescue-operations

Saturday 27th June

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Good Life, Good Death Expo

10am

Palliative Care Queensland invites Mackay and surrounding communities to the free Good Life, Good Death Expo on Saturday 27 June 2026 at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (10am–3pm). The event offers a welcoming space to explore conversations around death, dying, grief and loss, while connecting attendees with local services and supports. Hear from experts on advance care planning, wills, palliative care and more, alongside interactive workshops and a Yarning Circle. Open to all, this free expo encourages informed, compassionate end-of-life planning.

MECC

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Sunday 28th July

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Community Meditation and Breathwork

10am

BMS Pranayam classes in Mackay offer a calming, yoga-based breathwork and energy practice designed to support mindfulness, clarity and emotional wellbeing. Held Sundays from 10–11am at Mind Psyence, Slade Point, the sessions guide participants through traditional pranayam techniques to help reduce stress, improve focus and promote a sense of balance and calm. Suitable for beginners, each class includes breathwork, meditation and time for questions and connection. Offered by experienced yoga teacher Prabha Srinivasan, attendance is free with optional donations supporting community costs.

Mind Psyence, 358 Slade Point Road, Slade Point

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‘Check Your Boobs’ Fundraiser

10.30am

A Project Pink Fundraiser will be held at Mt Pleasant Tavern on 28 June from 10.30am, bringing the community together to support those affected by breast cancer and raise vital funds for the cause. The event will feature a guest speaker from Project Pink, along with raffles, activities, and refreshments including tea, coffee and food. Open to families and friends, the fundraiser aims to build awareness and support for those impacted, with every dollar raised contributing to ongoing care, research and community assistance.

Mt Pleasant Tavern

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Jasmyne’s Big Shave

2pm

A community fundraising event will see Jasmyne shave her head at the Mackay Aero Club on Saturday 27 June at 2pm, raising funds for breast cancer research through the National Breast Cancer Foundation. The afternoon will feature a gold coin entry, raffles with prizes donated by local businesses, and opportunities for attendees to contribute $10 per ponytail cut as part of the fundraising effort. All proceeds will support vital research and services. Held at The Aero Bar, 46 Casey Avenue, South Mackay, the event invites the community to show support for a meaningful cause.

Mackay Aero Club

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Tuesday 30^th June

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Family Fun Day

8am

A Family Fun Day hosted by The Gypsy Van will be held at Bluewater Quay on Tuesday 30 June, offering free entertainment for all ages along the Mackay City and Waterfront precinct. The event will feature an inflatable obstacle course from Lets Jump, soft play by Little Reefies Soft Play Mackay, creative art and craft activities from The Tree House Jungle, and sensory play with Playallday Mackay. ViVa Acoustic will also provide live music for families to enjoy. The community event promises a relaxed day of play, creativity and entertainment for children and adults alike. 8am-4pm.

Bluewater Quay  

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Echoes of the Gorge – A Free Community Art Event invites the community to come together and shape a Creative Sunday that reflects local identity, celebrates place and strengthens connections.

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Led by volunteers, local artists, residents and businesses, the community-driven initiative is part of the Mackay Festival of Arts and aims to grow participation, support local businesses and build a shared vision for future community-led creative events and a long-term regional arts trail.

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Organised by the Finch Hatton Progress Association (FHPA), the event transforms ‘The Old Finch Hatton Railway Station – Community and Creative Hub’ into a welcoming space for creativity, culture and connection. The day encourages locals and visitors to lead and participate in free workshops (all ages), art and artisan markets, stunning art exhibition and life music by talented local buskers that reflect the unique character of the Pioneer Valley.

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Taking place on Sunday, 9 August 2026, from 9am to 3pm, The Old Finch Hatton Railway Station will come alive with colour, sound and artistic expression. Free creative workshops throughout the day will offer hands-on experiences for all ages and abilities, while an art and artisan market will showcase handcrafted goods and unique treasures from local makers and creators.

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Workshops include: collaborative canvas painting with Lisa Roebig; raffia weaving with Nitari; boho-style watercolour art with Dani Em Art; children’s drumstick and stick fairy workshops with Anneka Meeder as well as palm sheath basket (not weaving); dry needle felting jewellery, music workshop, and crochet string bag making all lead by local artists.

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Local musician Lachie will lead a music workshop and busk throughout the day, with Sami from Imagination Music also busking. Local art stall holders will present creative demonstrations, and all workshop participants will create their own uniquely crafted art piece to take home. Parents are asked to supervise children during workshops.

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The Old Finch Hatton Railway Station will also exhibit the work of local artist Anneka Meeder, whose paintings explore mystical beings and the spirit of the trees.

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Beyond The Old Finch Hatton Railway Station, visitors are encouraged to explore nearby attractions, including the ‘Mad Hatter Tea Party’ hosted by One Hungry Mumma from 11am to 2pm, the Eungella Community Markets from 9am to 1pm, ‘Build Your Own Waffle Bar’ at The Gift Shed Cafe (9am to 3pm), Badilla Art Gallery in Pinnacle is open from 9am to 12pm and live music at The Criterion Hotel from 3pm onwards.

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The event is proudly supported by Premium Sponsor Robyn Agius – Area Specialist and funding from the Mackay Regional Council helping bring this regional cultural experience to life.

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Mark your calendars for Sunday, 9 August 2026 and experience a celebration where creativity, culture and community come alive in Finch Hatton, the heart of  the Pioneer Valley.

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For more information visit: finchhatton.org.au

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The 2026 Pioneer Valley Show brought the community together for a day of competitions, entertainment, exhibits and rides, with strong support from locals helping make the annual event another success.

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Photo source: Pioneer Valley Show Society (Facebook)

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See all photos here: www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/highlights-from-the-pioneer-valley-show

By Cr Heath Paton

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Mackay will burst into life this July as the 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts returns with a packed program of performances, exhibitions and familyfriendly events right across our region.

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Now in its 39th year, the festival runs throughout July and continues to be one of the highlights on Mackay’s calendar. This year, I’m exciting to see a full program that not only introduces fresh new experiences but also welcomes back popular favourites – many of them refreshed or in new locations to make them even better for festivalgoers.

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One of the standout events, the everpopular Wisely Wine and Food Day will this year be headlined by ARIA Awardwinning Australian artist Budjerah. It’s shaping up to be a fantastic day out, combining great local food and drinks with live music and a relaxed festival atmosphere.

Daly Bay Illuminate also returns for four nights and will take centre stage in Mackay’s City Centre. Spectacular largescale light projections will transform some of our most recognisable building facades, alongside the muchloved outdoor theatre procession Whale Song, featuring enormous, illuminated whale puppets that celebrate our annual humpback whale migration.

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If you’re a business owner in the City Centre, now is the time to start planning how you can make the most of the extra foot traffic.  Why not put up some shop front lighting, offer some special deals or extend your trading hours?

Running alongside Daly Bay Illuminate will be the Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub at Bluewater Quay, bringing together local musicians, food vendors and community artwork created especially for the festival.

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The festival kicks off during the school holidays, with plenty for families to enjoy. Highlights include Living Sculptures: How the Birds Got Their Colours at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and the immersive Sea of Light experience at the MECC.

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This year the program truly offers something for everyone, from theatre and comedy to music, exhibitions, workshops and community celebrations and it's fast becoming one of my favourite events on our calendar. 

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The full 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts program is available online, with printed copies available from the MECC Box Office and locations across Mackay.

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Let’s Chat – Council Connect

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Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region.  The next session will be held at Koumala Community Hall on July 7 at 5pm.

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Living Sculptures: How the Birds Got Their Colours is a beautiful open-air performance combining traditional First Nations dance and storytelling with contemporary circus acrobatics. Photo supplied

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Colour, movement and ancient storytelling will collide under the open sky when the 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts begins on July 4th with an Indigenous-led contemporary circus spectacular. 

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Living Sculptures: How the Birds Got Their Colours is created by ARC Circus Co in collaboration with Luther Cora and Yugambeh Aboriginal Dancers.

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Mayor Greg Williamson said the first fortnight of the 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts aligns with the school holidays, providing a wide range of events for the whole family to enjoy.

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“How the Birds Got Their Colours is a fantastic family-friendly show that will be held in our beautiful Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“The show celebrates diversity, identity and shared humanity through song, dance and spectacular acrobatics,” he said.

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Also featured in the Mackay Festival of Arts’ opening weeks is the immersive family experience, Sea of Light.

“This beautiful show allows kids and adults alike to use a UV torch as a paintbrush and paint or stencil a voyage that will leave glowing paths of light in their wake,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“Sea of Light artworks have been created by Aboriginal contemporary visual artist Elizabeth Close and are painted in light across the sea floor, reflecting the connection between land, sea, earth and water,” he said.

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Sea of Light will be on Wednesday 8^th July to Saturday 11^th July, at the MECC Plenary Halls.

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Another great show, just for the adults, will be the hilarious comedy showcase Late Nite PowerPoint.

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Following sell-out seasons at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Adelaide Fringe, this show features five comedians performing five different PowerPoints in a show that’s begging for technical difficulties.

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The Showcase will be on at Farview Tavern on Friday 10^th July and at Club Northern Beaches on Saturday 11^th July.

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Mackay Festival of Arts will also provide the following activities:

• On July 1^st DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season Fractured Fairy Tales, where classic stories have been tipped upside down and are all in a muddle at the MECC Auditorium.

• On July 4^th Malta’s culinary heritage will take the spotlight in Malta on a Plate at the Vintage Farmhouse Kitchen, Marian.

• On July 6^th Cirque Nouvelle will thrill the whole family with acrobatics, juggling, aerials, balancing and jaw-dropping feats at the MECC Auditorium.

• On July 10^th  the NAIDOC Street Parade and Family Fun Day will again celebrate culture, community and connection at Queens Park.

• On July 11^th all the flare of the Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling will return to the Bluewater Quay.

• Plus, so much more.

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The second half of the festival will also be jam-packed with amazing events, including crowd favourites Wisely Wine and Food Day, Daly Bay Illuminate, Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub and the Friends of the MECC Jazz Brunch.

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For more information on the full festival program, visit ourmackay.com.au/festivals

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