This week’s winner is Dylan Wicks for this black and white action shot.

These photographs are contributed by the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Group

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By Suzanna Mcloughlin

Local blues musician Zed Charles has rocked the CD category of the Memphis Blues Challenge with his debut album, Hear My Word. His submission rose through the ranks, making it into the third round of the competition and finishing in joint sixth, over a vast number of applicants from all over the world. 

Hear My Word had already achieved Aussie acclaim, holding the no. 2 spot on the ABRAC charts for three months, and remarkably, the album was entirely self-produced. Zed performed each component, from percussion, to bass and rhythm guitar to vocals, even writing his own lyrics.

Describing his sound, Zed says “There’s traditional blues, and people who want to take the genre and evolve it a little more. I’d say I’m probably in the second category. It’s a tricky sort of thing to keep those traditional sounds and styles but also maybe add something, evolve it, or push it in a new direction. Put your stamp on it. I think that’s, believe it or not, the reason why my album did so well in the competition.”

Zed grew up in Bowen, gaining his early musical training at the conservatorium in Mackay before going to jazz school in Brisbane, staying there for most of his early career. Eventually, he joined the heavy rock band, The Royal Artillery, before Covid-19 provided a pause in which he moved back home to the Whitsundays. Here, in paradise, Zed stripped back to his roots, and dipped back into the blues.

Having played gigs across Australia (including the Airlie Beach Music Festival), and internationally, solo, in bands, and alongside names like Mungo Jerry, Zed Charles is now looking to bring his focus back home. 

He is currently working on launching a Whitsundays Blues Association, working with Mackay Blues Club to “nuture a bigger blues network in Australia… but also nurture the people who play blues, give them a platform.”

Zed’s goal is to help more people fall in love with blues music, whilst creating pathways and opportunities that show young people that they can find their success and launch their music careers right here, in the Whitsundays. He highlights Airlie Beach as a hub of live music and artistry, with its density of venues and music-lovers, that can have the potential to launch musicians just as equally as the big cities usually associated with the gig scene. “Watch this space,” he says.

With projects planned with Seth Enslow from the Crusty Demons, sponsorship from local business Poschelk Guitars, and sights set on playing stateside in Texas, Zed Charles has a big year ahead. Catch him next hosting the Porch Blues Festival in Caboolture, on 2 May.

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Zed Charles by Summer Rain Photography

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Well known Mackay photographer, Mark Fitz, excitingly announced one of his most beloved, award-winning pictures is now out in the world following the publishment of Craig Sheather’s Terry the Turtle!

Officially printed in December of 2025, the children’s fiction book features the cheeky Lady Elliot Island turtle seemingly “flipping the bird” to Fitz’ camera. Terry attracted a world of attention the moment Mark debuted the photograph in 2018, with Mark recalling the photo instantly went viral on social media, accumulating thousands of shares, millions of likes, and even a few news stories!

“When Craig came to me with the idea for a book based on Terry the Turtle featuring my photography, I loved the idea instantly,” Mark enthused.

“It’s been so exciting watching the story develop and grow and to have it out in the world now is a dream come true!”

Sheather’s feel-good book shares the untold story of the world’s cheekiest turtle and has been described as the perfect comedic tale for young animal lovers and their families.

“We hope you and your families enjoy this book as much as we have enjoyed making it and thank you again so much for all your incredible support!”

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The turtle that broke the internet now has a book! Photo source:Amazon

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They’re back! Film & Arts Mackay, Mackay’s Alternative Cinema, will be back with their monthly movies on Friday, February 6, at CQU’s Cook Theatre. Each month, Film & Arts Mackay screens award-winning movies not usually shown in commercial cinemas. February’s film is ‘Four Mothers’, an Irish movie which won the Audience Award at the BFI London Film Festival.

This sharp-edged comedy bursts onto the screen with wit, warmth, and just the right amount of chaos. Edward (James McArdle), a writer on the cusp of international success, is all set for his big U.S. book tour when life pulls the rug out from under him—his beloved mother Alma (the incomparable Fionnula Flanagan) suffers a stroke. What else can go wrong, right? Plenty!

FAM’s Friday movies are followed by a supper, included in the ticket price. For membership (discount prices) and/or movie tickets, go to www.trybooking.com/DIJCZ.

Film & Arts Mackay is a not-for-profit group whose proceeds help support other local arts groups. The proceeds from one movie each year go to a nominated local charity, including the Rural Fire Brigade and Mackay Women’s Services, among others.

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Friday 6th February

U3A Mackay Open Day
9am
Retired from full-time work and ready to discover new interests with like-minded people? U3A Mackay invites the community to its Open Day — a relaxed opportunity to explore a wide range of cultural, active and creative groups. Meet friendly members, learn what’s on offer, join or renew membership, and enjoy a complimentary tea or coffee while discovering your next chapter.
Mackay & District Senior Citizens' Association Inc.

Crochet & Conversation
9am
Looking for a relaxed way to connect and get creative? Drop in for a morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation with friendly Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Everyone is welcome — from beginners to seasoned crafters, or those who simply enjoy good coffee and great company. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box and enjoy a warm, welcoming community vibe.
Beachfront Bar and Restaurant Bucasia

Film & Arts Mackay Presents: Four Mothers 
7.30pm
Film & Arts Mackay invites movie lovers to a special screening of the acclaimed comedy-drama Four Mothers at CQ University Mackay Ooralea Campus. Winner of the Audience Award at the BFI London Film Festival, this sharp, heartfelt film blends humour and humanity in a whirlwind Dublin weekend. Expect laugh-out-loud moments, emotional depth and a moving celebration of family, friendship and resilience. Rated MA 15+.
CQ University Mackay Ooralea Campus, Building 1, 351-371 Boundary Road, Ooralea

Sunday 8th February

February Swap Meet
10am
Participants are invited to bring five items to swap and take home five new-to-you treasures. It’s a fun, sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe or household items while connecting with others. Keep an eye out for further details and get ready for a great day of swapping and socialising.
The Grounds Collective Bucasia

Come & Try Pickleball
4pm
Curious about pickleball? Now’s the perfect chance to give it a go at the upcoming Pickleball Come & Try Day. Open to ages 13 and up, this fun, beginner-friendly session is a great way to get active and try something new. All equipment is supplied — just bring a drink bottle, wear activewear and joggers, and get ready for a great time. Limited spots available, so bookings are essential via the Facebook page.
Mackay Tennis Association

Tuesday 10th February

9.30am
Northern Beaches Community Playgroup invites families to its Term 1 Meet & Greet — a welcoming session for new and returning families to connect and help shape the year ahead. Learn how the playgroup operates, share ideas, explore volunteering opportunities and enjoy a relaxed morning of play and connection. With sensory play, crafts and activities for children, plus light refreshments for adults, it’s a great way to be part of a thriving, community-led playgroup.
Northern Beaches Community Hall, 24 Wallace Street, Bucasia

Thursday 12th February

Artspace Lunchbox Origami
12.30pm
Add a creative spark to your lunch break with free Lunchbox Origami sessions at Artspace Mackay this February, led by artist Karen Hurford. Enjoy a relaxed 30-minute workshop creating flower-inspired folds, while exploring Printbank Mackay’s Coastal Imprints exhibition. With beautiful local works on display and no bookings required, it’s the perfect way to refresh, recharge and get creative. All welcome.
Artspace Mackay

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By Sebastian Conidi

The iconic Whitsundays Songwriters Festival has been nominated for Festival of the Year – People’s Choice at the Queensland Music Awards. This nomination is a terrific recognition of the passion, hard work, and creative vision behind the festival, led by co-founder and Director, and local Whitsundays singer-songwriter, Karen Jacobsen, presented under the auspices of the Whitsundays Arts Festival.

The fifth Whitsundays Songwriters Festival will take place from 3 to 7 June 2026. Highlights will include the much-loved Concert and Conversation on Saturday evening, 6 June, along with three levels of songwriting workshops held during the day: Beginner, Intermediate, and Masterclass.

The songwriter’s festival emerged as part of the Whitsundays Arts Festival in 2021.

“It began when I performed at the closing event in concert for the Whitsundays Arts Festival in 2021 and I met the president Jess Begun”, said Karen.

“I told her that I always dreamt of a songwriter festival, and she said there’s no reason we can’t do that next year.”

In 2022, the Whitsundays Songwriters Festival debuted.

“It was co-founded with the Whitsundays Arts Festival as well as Francesca de Valence head of I Heart Songwriting in Brisbane. We created a songwriter residency, inviting six professional songwriters from around Australia to come together for four days and co-write and collaborate.”

The program has feature incredible songwriters such as Vika & Linda, Tony Childs and locals Graham Connors and Brad Butcher.

The program features a concert and Q&A interviewing the expert panel, with people performing songs they wrote the previous day.

Despite the event’s previous success, Karen reflected on the difficulties of garnering support for arts and culture in the region.

“It’s been an ongoing challenge in my capacity as an art creator in the region to access funding. Our volunteers spend hundreds of hours creating materials for grants and funding applications. I would love to see an equal level of investment in arts that we see for sports. In my experience arts are equally important, and having children and adults engaged in all manner of arts activities creates a healthy society.”

The songwriting festival has creating amazing opportunities for those enthusiastic about creativity.

“Every year, there are profound experiences in the workshops and the concert events. It’s wonderful to have the kind of feedback we have from the local community.”

The festival has seen great support from sponsors and partners.

“We are really grateful to our partners and sponsors from the previous years and, as we embark on our 2026 festival, we would love to hear from any community members interested in our programmes.”

The songwriting festival is a vital opportunity, fostering arts and creativity in the Whitsunday’s region. It is great to see the initiative continue into 2026. Best of luck to the team!!

WSF 2023 Songwriter Workshop – Photo source: Tropix Photography
WSF 2025 Brad Butcher, Cnr Jan Clifford, Mayor Ry Collins, Karen Jacobsen, Chris Sebastian, Zipporah, Francesca de Valence, Mark Sholtez, Jessica Begun – Photo source: Karen Jacobsen

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February
7 Galentine’s Day, Queens Beach Hotel, 12pm-4pm
7 Bustamento Intrepid Adventure Tour, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5.30pm
8 One Love – The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm – 5.30pm
17 Sailability Whitsunday, 9am onwards
9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am
27 Speed Networking, Lumos Café 7.30-8.30am
28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm – 5.30pm

March
3 Sailability Whitsunday, 9am onwards
7 Proserpine Lions & Lion Ladies International Womens Day, Proserpine RSL, 1pm-5pm
7&8 Late for Woodstock, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5.30pm
14&15 U2 Rattle & Hum plus Coldplay Show, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5.30pm
17 Sailability Whitsunday, 9am onwards
21&22 Katie Jayne LIVE, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5.30pm
22 The UK Rod Stewart Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm-9.45pm
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, 9am onwards

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Friday 6 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
KCs: Retro Joe (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaeden McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)
Grandview Hotel: Nite Johnson (from 8pm)

Saturday 7 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Bustamento (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
KCs: Retro Joe (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)

Sunday 8 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: One Love/Nicky Bomba (2pm-5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ (1pm – 5pm)
KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Monday 9 February
KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

Tuesday 10 February
KCs: Dave Helgi (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

Wednesday 11 February
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

Thursday 12 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30-9.30pm)
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)

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The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network will be holding a special free screening on Thursday 12 February at the Reef Gateway Hotel. The film, entitled ‘When The Dust Settles’, was made by award winning a director Stuart McKay and sheds light on the issues many men face, opening conversations around supporting community growth and change.

It is a visually striking documentary that follows three Australians forever changed by the ripple effects of suicide.

The film screening has been brought to the region by Aaron Schultz, founder of the Outback Mind Foundation. Though the film features heavy themes, it is meant to be uplifting and accessible to all, however the team will provide staff for anyone who is triggered by the content. The film is designed to be inspiring, encouraging communities to get together to support those that are impacted or bereaved by suicide, ultimately putting in future measures to prevent it.  

All are encouraged to come along to the screening. The greater the participation, the more support that can be fostered for an incredibly vital cause which impacts many across the region. Whether it is individuals, council staff, sports clubs or community groups. All are welcome to come along for a great night.

It is wonderful to see that the work that is being done by the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, as they continue to push important initiatives in 2026.

WHAT: Whitsunday screening: When The Dust Settles
WHEN: Thursday February 12th, 6.45pm
WHERE: Reef Gateway Hotel, Cannonvale Function Room

Photo source: Facebook

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If you’re busy driving down the highway to hell on the weekend of February 14th and 15th don’t be afraid to take the exit towards the Airlie Beach Hotel for some high voltage rock n roll.  

Whole Lotta Rosie are one of Australia’s premiere AC/DC tribute bans, packing a heavy rock n roll punch for all to enjoy.

Whole Lotta Rosie initially formed as a supergroup of veteran musicians, all with experience playing AC/DC tunes. Having played for close to 10 years, it’s been a long way to the top, but the electric ensemble shows no signs of slowing down.

“The band have a great ear for that authentic AC/DC sound, they’re all big fans to begin with and know their gear, so when you come to a Whole Lotta Rosie gig, hearing that genuine AC/DC rock sound”, said singer Cynthia Gallie.

The band has built a strong foundation in Melbourne, developing a dedicated fanbase through consistent performances.

“We have an awesome loyal following in Melbourne who are super passionate about the music.”

Having played in Airlie before, the band are incredibly eager to return.

“A couple of years ago we were lucky enough to have a weekend of gigs at Airlie Beach Hotel and absolutely loved it. We’re all looking forward to bringing the band back for round 2!”

Despite covering a huge discography, the group are able to balance great hits with epic deep cuts.

“We try to strike a balance between delivering the well-known favourites and satisfying the more dedicated and well-versed fans with those album deep cuts.”

Cynthia clearly has some impressive chops, belting the iconic songs of both Bon Scott and Brian Johnson.

“Bon has a lot of great songs that highlight how good he was as a storyteller. These are my favourite to perform. Songs like Ride On and Rock ‘n’ Roll Singer. Then you have Brian with his incredible range so sinking my teeth into songs like Shoot To Thrill and Hells Bells is a great challenging and is very satisfying”.

Get down to Airlie Beach Hotel if you want to be thunderstruck by the power of Whole Lotta Rosie’s epic rock show.

WHAT: Whole Rotta Rosie – playing the best of AC/DC plus Rock Classics, Valentine’s Day Special

WHEN: Saturday 14th February and Sunday 15th February, 2pm til 5.30pm

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

Photo sourced

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If your dinner routine is feeling a little tired, consider this your sign to declare a full-blown taco night, but with a vegetarian twist and let the warm tortillas, and colourful fillings put your tastebuds on a direct flight to Mexico!

Creativity’s your best friend when it comes to crafting a veggie taco, but like any recipe, you must first, start with a solid base! Roasted or sautéed vegetables will be instrumental in piecing together your masterpiece; picture sweet potato tossed in smoky spices, caramelised mushrooms with that irresistible umami hit, charred corn straight off the grill, or crispy cauliflower coated in chilli and paprika. Oh and add black beans, lentils or quinoa if you want something hearty that still feels light.

A key component of crafting the perfect taco lies in the freedom to design the dish to suit your own preferences, choose-your-own-adventure style! Choose from toppings like creamy guacamole, fresh pico de gallo, mango or pineapple salsa for sweetness, pickled red onions for tang, or shredded cabbage for crunch and as a simple rule; the more textures, the better. A drizzle of chipotle mayo, yoghurt lime sauce or coriander dressing ties everything together.

Vegetarian tacos are all about intertwining several flavours to create something delicious, colourful and fun! Serve your creations family-style, squeeze over fresh lime, maybe shake up a margarita, and suddenly a weeknight dinner feels like a mini fiesta!

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Pop into the kitchen this week and whip up a delicious batch of vegetarian tacos! Photo source: Shutterstock

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Is your dog a bit restless? Too much barking and not enough fun. Well here are some great activities in the Whitsunday's region for your favourite canine friend to enjoy.

Cannonvale Beach Walk
The lovely Cannonvale Beach is pet friendly, making it a perfect haven for your dog to run free. Enjoy a great atmosphere and beautifal views of the coastline as you stroll along the shore with your beloved animal.

Bicentennial Boardwalk
The relaxed 4km coastal walking track provides scenic views with rest stops and water stations to conveniently keep your pets hydrated.

Airlie Beach Lagoon Markets
Stroll through the vibrant Saturday morning markets with your furry friend. The great event lends a pet friendly atmosphere, with the potential to purchase treats, toys and accesories from local vendours for maximum entertainment.

Shingley Beach
The quiet beach, tucked away from crowds is great for when you and your pet just want to unwind. The calm waters are safe for pets to wade in and play.

Kings Beach
Situated in Bowen, Kings Beach is a beautifal off-leash dog friendly beach - perfect to let your dog run free. A long sandy beach, with calm waters, it lends the perfect relaxing experience.

Cedar Creek Falls
Just a 25 minute drive south of Airlie Beach, the dog friendly site allows owners to bring their pets on a leash.

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Spend the weekend with your furry friend enjoying the region's abundance of dog friendly beaches! Photo source: Shutterstock

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Friday 30 January

KCs: Erin Reus (from 8pm)

Grandview Hotel: Ash Smith (from 8pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)

Sorento: Kaeden McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)

Saturday 31 January

Coral Sea Marina Resort: Noah Davis (1pm-5pm)

KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Grandview Hotel: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Hendrix (2pm - 7:30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)

Sunday 1 February

Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ (1pm-5pm)

KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6:30pm - 9:30pm)

Monday 2 February
KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Tuesday 3 February
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Wednesday 4 February
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Thursday 5 February
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6:30pm - 9:30pm)

Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)

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January
31 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

February
1 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

7 Galentine's Day, Queens Beach Hotel, 12pm - 4pm

7 Bustamento Intrepid Adventure Tour, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

8 One Love - The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am

14 & 15 Whole Lotta Rosie, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

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Legendary Australian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Nicky Bomba is set to take to the stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel, 7th February, with his exciting project Bustamento. Known as the being the driving force behind the Melbourne Ska Orchestra and drummer for the John Butler Trio, Nicky has had an eclectic career, performing from Bluesfest to Glastonbury.

His special project Bustamento shows no signs of slowing down. A combination of Nicky’s various musical cohorts, Bustamento is a collage of various sounds and styles. Bustamento harness mento music as their foundation - acoustic Jamaican folk music that influenced ska and reggae.

"Theres a special feeling about touching the seed of that music, it's very joyful, very tongue in cheek", said Nicky.

Having explored such a specific scene of music, Nicky clearly has a deep affection for its origins and significance.

"The essence of the music was making light of things. It was considered to be the voice of the people. If there were things they couldn't say in the newspaper or publicly, they could say them in the context of the song and get away with it."

With seasoned touring experience, Bustamento have added musical flavours from around the world, implementing reggae, steel pan calypso, Mowtown, pop and New Orleans boogie to their wonderfully quirky sound.

Nicky, along with his various projects, is no stranger to the Airlie Beach Hotel.

"We like to do it once or twice a year. It's a bit of a tradition now. We have lots of friends up there. The venue has a nice outdoor tropical vibe so it ties in with the music well. The atmosphere really helps with the context of the music".

Despite such an extensive career, Nicky is still learning new things.

"That's the beauty of music. I don't think I'll ever learn all the things I really want to."

The band will then reform the next day, Sunday 8th February, as ONE LOVE, playing the iconic tunes of Bob Marley and the Wailers, plus many other reggae classics.

Get down to Airlie Beach Hotel for a series of energetic, fun and enthusiastic performances.

Saturday 7th February
WHAT: Nicky Bomba's Bustamento, FREE SHOW
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: 2pm til 5:30pm

Sunday 8th February
WHAT: One Love – The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers plus Reggae Classics, FREE SHOW
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: 2pm til 5:30pm

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Photo source: Facebook

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