The Bowen Polocrosse Club is preparing for a weekend to remember, with its inaugural Ladies Day event happening this Saturday, the 26th of July. Tickets to the highly anticipated event sold out weeks in advance, marking a promising start for what could become a new annual tradition.

Running from 12pm to 4pm, the ticketed event will treat 100 lucky guests to live acoustic music, prosecco, raffles, and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere alongside A and B grade polocrosse matches. With optional catering, drinks, and souvenirs included, the event offers the perfect blend of sport and socialising, all set under the Whitsunday sun.

Ladies Day is just the beginning of a full Saturday of festivities. From 8am, the Bowen Polocrosse Club will host a full day of competitive action, before transitioning into its popular Night Chukkas evening. Attendees can enjoy live music, a Calcutta, food stalls, a bar, and a Kids’ Corner, making it a great night out for families and locals alike.

The weekend-long event is expected to draw visitors from across the region, bringing both a boost to the local economy and a wave of community spirit to Bowen.

Although Ladies Day tickets are sold out, those unable to attend are encouraged to check the Bowen Polocrosse Club’s official social media pages for resale opportunities. With such strong interest, this debut event is shaping up to be a standout on the local events calendar.

What: Bowen Polocrosse Club Ladies Day
Where: Bowen Polocrosse Club
When: Saturday, 26th of July from 12pm

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July

26 2025 Mayor's Charity Ball, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 5pm - 12am, $250

27 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

27 St Catherine's Catholic College Centenary Picnic, 10am - 3pm

27 Book Launch - Wired not Weird, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 2:30pm

29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

29 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

31 Author Talk Session by Marion Weatherburn, Beach Book Boutique, from 11am

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Friday 25th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
KC's: Corey Harris (from 8pm)

Saturday 26th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon  (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Hannah Roberts (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Shae (1pm – 6pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver

Sunday 27th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Hannah Roberts (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Scotty Wilson (2pm – 6pm)
KC's: Nick di Gregorio (from 8pm)

Monday 28th July
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Tuesday 29th July
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Wednesday 30th July
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Thursday 31st July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

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Young instrumentalists from the Whitsunday region have the exciting opportunity to represent their community on the state stage this August, with invitations now open for the 2025 Oz Schools Instrumental Championships (OSIC).

Held at the State Library of Queensland in Brisbane, OSIC is a prestigious solo performance competition for school-age students, with categories including piano, strings, drums, and guitar. The event will feature Queensland’s most talented young musicians performing in a live concert and competition format, with top performers progressing to the National Final in Melbourne.

According to organisers, students who have placed at local eisteddfods may be eligible for direct entry into the state final.

“We’ve created a pathway that celebrates local achievement,” says Joe Patrick, a music educator and event director.

“Students who’ve already performed well locally can now showcase their talents on a professional stage, connect with other top musicians, and represent their town at a state level.”

Students who have not recently participated in an eisteddfod can still apply by submitting a short audition video. Past performance footage or YouTube links are accepted, and full entry details — including eligibility criteria and how to audition — are available online at www.osic.com.au.

Organisers are hopeful to see plenty of North Queensland talent featured on stage in Brisbane this August and entries for the Queensland State Final close on Sunday, the 3rd of August.

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OSIC 2024 Junior Strings Finalist (Photo Supplied)
OSIC 2024 Junior Drums Finalist (Photo Supplied)
OSIC QLD State Final Venue State Library of Queensland (Photo Supplied)

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Get ready to rewind time, Airlie Beach is set to be drenched in synths, sequins and shoulder pads when the Rewind 80s Band return for two epic shows this August.

The Melbourne-based seven-piece group, led by powerhouse vocalist and band founder Samantha Atkins, will take to the stage at the Airlie Beach.

“It’s all the greatest hits from the 80s, think Madonna, Van Halen, ABBA, Jimmy Barnes, and more,” Samantha said.

“We’re all dressed up in full costume, and the setlist is a fail safe for hitting the dance floor and to get moving.”

Rewind 80s don’t just play the hits, they bring them to life. With multiple costume changes and magnetic stage presence, the band recreates the vibrant spirit of the decade, right down to the hair and harmonies. Audiences can expect classics like Jessie’s Girl, Living on a Prayer, Material Girl, Sledgehammer, and Sweet Child O’ Mine, songs that have stood the test of time and still fill dancefloors across the world.

The crowd can be anywhere from 25 to 65, and they will still have a blast and a great time.

“The music of the 80s is timeless, and the people who come to our shows are there to let loose, sing along, and dance like no one’s watching,” Atkins said.

“There’s something special about that generation, they’re not sitting at home on iPads, they’re out meeting people.”

The band, affectionately dubbed The New Wigs on the Block, has spent the last 14 years touring extensively across Australia. Their theatre-sized stage show, complete with lighting and video effects at some venues, has wowed crowds in cities like Cairns, Townsville, and Darwin. Their last visit to Airlie Beach earlier this year was such a hit, they couldn’t resist coming back for another round.

“We had a fantastic time doing early last time and apparently there's a lot of birthday parties that are going to be there this time around,” added Samantha.

While many acts of the era have faded into the past, Rewind 80s continues to grow in popularity thanks to their commitment to live performance and connection with audiences. During the pandemic, the group pivoted from pubs to theatre venues, expanding their reach across the country and gaining a whole new fanbase.

So if you’re a fan of neon colours, leg warmers, and unforgettable anthems, don’t miss your chance to catch Rewind 80s Band live at the Airlie Beach Hotel this August.

WHAT: Rewind 80’s
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 9 August (2pm – 5.30pm) & Sunday 10 August (2pm – 5.30pm)

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They've been hitting stages country wide
Don't Miss the performance at the Airlie Beach Hotel
They arrive in the Whitsundays soon

Photos sourced: Facebook

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One of the Whitsundays’ most cherished community events is back at the Great Barrier Reef Festival (GBRF)! Locals are already preparing their best outfits and teaming up as excitement builds for the Rotary Street Parade, set to light up Airlie Beach Main Street on Saturday, 2 August from 5pm.
As a key highlight of the festival, the parade is a colourful, high-energy celebration of creativity, reef life, and community pride. Businesses, schools, community groups and performers will bring the street to life with vibrant costumes, music, floats, and entertainment for all ages to enjoy.
This year’s theme is “Coral Kingdom”, so expect everything from sea creatures and coral castles to sky-high jellyfish and ocean-inspired characters. The parade winds through the heart of Airlie Beach, with locals and visitors lining the streets to cheer on the floats and soak up the atmosphere.
Community members are encouraged to get involved. Whether you're a sporting team, school group, business or club, this is your chance to showcase your creativity and connect with the crowd. Entries can be walking groups, vehicle floats or a mix of both. Prizes will be awarded for Best Business Entry, Best Not-for-Profit Entry, and Most Creative and Wacky.
It’s also a great team-building activity, and many participants say the preparations are just as fun as the parade itself!
Spectators can catch the action from anywhere along the route or enjoy the view from local cafés and bars. Entry deadline is Wednesday, 30 July — don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic.
Register your parade team now at: greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au
   • What: 2025 Rotary Street Parade
   • Where: Airlie Beach Main Street
   • When: Saturday 2nd August, from 5pm

Revvin’ the Reef Roars Back into Airlie Beach
What’s that rumble? It can only mean one thing… the roar of engines as cars roll into town for the inaugural Revvin’ the Reef car show!
Airlie Beach Main Street will come alive with chrome, colour, and community spirit on Saturday, 2 August, when Revvin’ the Reef makes its high-octane debut. Proudly presented by ENZED Whitsundays and Hog’s Breath Cafe Airlie Beach, this exciting new event is a celebration of horsepower and heritage.
From hot rods and muscle cars to EVs, motorbikes, classic cars, and trucks, the street will be lined with a dazzling display of vehicles from 10am to 2pm. Live music will set the tone for a fun-filled morning.
Vehicle owners are encouraged to pre-register, as spaces are limited. Entry is $15 for cars and trucks, and $10 for motorbikes, with trophies awarded to the Top 10 Vehicles, as voted by the public.
While the official Miss Pin-Up Competition is on pause this year, the vintage spirit lives on! Attendees are invited to dress in their best retro, rockabilly, or vintage-inspired outfits, with spot prizes for the most creative looks.
Whether you’re showing off your pride and joy or cheering from the sidelines, Revvin’ the Reef is a must-see celebration of community, creativity, and classic style.
   • What: Revvin’ the Reef
   • Where: Airlie Beach Main Street
   • When: Saturday 2nd August 2025, 10am–2pm

Build It, Float It, Race It – The Recyclable Regatta Returns!
Ahoy there, pirates! Get ready for a morning of chaos, creativity, and coastal fun as the Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta sails back to the Airlie Beach Foreshore on Sunday, 3 August, from 8:30am.
A firm festival favourite, this action-packed event sees schools, community groups, local businesses and brave mates build and paddle their way across the water in homemade rafts, all made entirely from recyclable materials. From milk bottles and bamboo to plastic drums and pirate costumes—anything goes as long as it’s sustainable and seaworthy!
Proudly supported by Whitsunday Escape, the regatta promises plenty of laughs and friendly competition. This year, businesses are especially encouraged to join the fun. It’s the perfect team-building challenge—build a branded raft and go head-to-head with your industry rivals for prizes and bragging rights.
There are four divisions:
   • Kids (6–12)
   • Teens (13–17)
   • Adults (18+)
   • Local Business category
Great prizes are up for grabs in each!
Rafts must be no larger than 3m x 3m, with a maximum of three crew members. Life jackets are mandatory, and the race isn’t over until your whole team runs up the beach and crosses the finish line together.
So, gather your crew, register online, and start collecting your materials. The Recyclable Regatta is a celebration of sustainability, community spirit, and good old-fashioned fun.
For full raft guidelines or advice on materials, email: marketing@whitsundayescape.com
   • What: 2025 Recyclable Regatta
   • Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore
   • When: Sunday 3rd August 2025, 8:30

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Art lovers across the region are in for a treat as the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition returns for its second year, promising a vibrant and inspiring showcase of local creativity. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday Sailing Club, the exhibition will run from July 31 to August 4 and feature 78 original artworks created by 61 talented regional artists.

With entries spanning painting, sculpture, and photography, each piece draws inspiration from the Reef’s breathtaking marine life, coral beauty, and dynamic coastal culture. The exhibition has quickly become a standout event within the annual Great Barrier Reef Festival, attracting growing interest and recognition from across Queensland and beyond.

A panel of respected local figures—including celebrated artist Carol Bell, Whitsunday Councillor Jan Clifford, and Proserpine State High’s Head of The Arts, Jenny Napier—carefully selected the finalists from an impressive array of submissions.

“The standard was incredibly high,” said Ms Bell. “It was a real challenge to choose, but the finalists represent the exceptional talent we have here in the Whitsundays.”

Artists are in the running for the prestigious $3000 Whitsunday Regional Council Acquisitive Art Prize, with the winning artwork to be added to the Council’s permanent collection. Irene Mengel, Manager of Brisbane’s Aspire Gallery, will serve as guest judge for the 2025 competition, lending her expertise and industry insight to the final decision.

The exhibition opens with a public Awards Night on Thursday, July 31 at 6:30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend, with free entry for all. Following the launch, the exhibition will remain open daily until Monday, August 4, giving locals and tourists alike the chance to enjoy the diverse collection.

Visitors are encouraged to vote for their favourite piece in the $1000 People’s Choice Award, proudly supported by Bendigo Bank. Local schools will also be offered guided educational tours, providing students with the opportunity to engage with the visual arts firsthand and learn about the Reef’s connection to artistic expression.

Returning bigger and better, the 2025 Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition is shaping up to be a major cultural highlight for the Whitsundays—a celebration of artistic talent, community spirit, and the enduring magic of the Great Barrier Reef.

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Immerse Yourself in a Reef of Art and Imagination

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The Airlie Beach Foreshore will be transformed into an oceanic dreamscape from 1 to 3 August as the Immerse Art Installation, proudly sponsored by Tassal, makes its return for the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
Spanning the length of the foreshore and centred beneath the iconic fig tree, the installation invites festivalgoers to wander through a vibrant, reef-inspired wonderland. Created by local artists using recycled plastics, materials and marine debris, the sculptures highlight both the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and the importance of protecting it.
Visitors can expect an enchanting display of sculptured sea creatures, coral forms, and glowing lanterns. The installation continues to grow each year, now extending from the much-loved ‘Great Eight’ tree to the ‘Estuary’, with mesmerising animated projections lighting up the Heart Hotel and a glowing entrance welcoming you onto the foreshore.
Immerse is brought to life thanks to the creativity and dedication of local talents including Margaret Burgess, Anita Pender, Brigitte Peel, Liz Knight, and Margie Murphy with animated projections of artists works curated by Donna Maree Robinson.
In the lead-up to the festival new artists and craftspeople get involved with the project year-on-year, sharing skills, creating new works and growing the installations footprint.
Whether you're visiting by day or experiencing the illuminated magic at night, Immerse promises a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate the reef through art, imagination, and community connection.

Creative students from Proserpine State High School, St Catherine’s Catholic College, and Whitsunday Christian College are invited to enter the 2025 Reeflections Student Art Competition, now open to students in Years 10, 11, and 12.
This year’s theme, “Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef – Celebrating Marine Beauty and Conservation,” encourages young artists to explore the natural wonders of the region and express their connection to the reef through original artworks.
Finalists will have their pieces professionally exhibited at Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays during the Great Barrier Reef Festival, offering a unique opportunity to gain public and media recognition.
There are exciting incentives for students to get involved, including:
   • Cash prizes for winning entries
   • A finalist draw to win a luxury two-night getaway
   • Media features and gallery recognition
The competition welcomes all forms of visual art, from painting and drawing to digital media and photography.
Entries close on 26 July 2025, so students are encouraged to start creating and submit their work before the deadline.

Making Waves: GBRF Art Exhibition Returns with ‘Tides of Connection’ Theme
The Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition is returning in 2025, set to once again transform the Whitsunday Sailing Club into a stunning gallery space from 31 July to 4 August. Open to artists residing along the coast from Agnes Water to Cooktown, the curated exhibition invites creative interpretations of this year’s theme, “Tides of Connection.”
The theme explores the intricate relationships between people, culture, and the reef, inviting works that reflect on the ties between marine ecosystems, human experiences, and the reef’s past, present, and future.
Selected works will be professionally exhibited during the festival, with the Opening Night on Thursday 31 July, from 6pm to 8pm.
Exhibition hours continue through to Monday 4 August, with a final gathering on Tuesday 5 August to announce the People’s Choice Award and raffle winners.
Generous cash prizes are on offer for the exhibition, including a $3000 Best in Show award sponsored by the Whitsunday Regional Council. There are also $1000 prizes for the 2D, 3D, and Photography categories, a $500 Cathy Knezevic Local Artist Award, a $1000 People’s Choice Award, and a $200 Framing Award.
Finalist artworks must be delivered to the Sailing Club on 30 July between 9:30am and 12 noon.

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Airlie Beach will be set aglow next weekend as the annual Coral SeaMarina Lantern Parade returns to the Great Barrier Reef Festival,lighting up the Bicentennial Boardwalk in a vibrant display of colourand creativity.

In the lead-up tothe event, lantern-making workshops have given families, children andlocal artists the chance to craft glowing creations from simplematerials. These handmade lanterns will form part of a dazzlingprocession from Coral Sea Marina to the Airlie Beach foreshore.

The parade willbegin outside The Garden Bar & Bistro and wind past Sorrento’s,finishing at Fairy Tree Park where the foreshore festivities willcontinue with live music, food stalls, and a special Welcome toCountry and Traditional Dance.

The Lantern Paradeis a highlight of the festival program inviting people of all ages tocelebrate shared imagination and community spirit.

Locals and visitorsare encouraged to line the boardwalk, take part, and experience themagic as Airlie Beach shines bright.

The Lantern Paradeis a breathtaking event where adults and children take part in thismagical procession along the waterfront, arriving at the festivalprecinct as night falls. A spectacular sight to behold.

WHAT: Lantern Parade

WHERE: Meet AtGarden Bar, Coral Sea Marina

WHEN: Friday 1^stAugust, 5.30pm

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Score front-row seats to the GBRF’s most dazzling night of the year.
Locals and visitors are invited to soak up the magic of the Great Barrier Reef Festival fireworks aboard the Camira Twilight & Fireworks Cruise, setting sail on Friday, 1 August 2025. This unforgettable evening offers a spectacular vantage point from the water, as Airlie Beach’s night sky explodes in colour.
Departing from the Cruise Whitsundays Maritime Terminal at 5:45pm, this exclusive 3-hour cruise aboard the sleek sailing catamaran Camira promises an evening of relaxed luxury, stunning views, and prime positioning for the festival’s signature fireworks display.
As the sun sets over the Whitsundays, guests will enjoy all-inclusive beverages—beer, wine, sparkling and cider—alongside a grazing-style antipasto platter while cruising across the bay. With panoramic ocean views and the vibrant lights of Airlie Beach in the distance, the cruise offers a truly unique way to experience the festival.
The real show begins when the sky lights up in a spectacular fireworks display, reflected across the water and framed by the silhouettes of the surrounding islands.
Once back on shore around 8:45pm, guests can continue the evening with a short stroll to the Airlie Beach foreshore, where the festival is in full swing with live music, Eat Street food vendors, market stalls, and the Reef Bar.
The Camira Twilight Cruise is a popular event on the festival calendar—bookings are essential.
For enquiries:
📧 events@greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au
🎟️ Book tickets: greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au

Beats on the Beach Set to Light Up Airlie’s Saturday Night
As the sun sets and the energy of the Rotary Street Parade winds down Main Street, the Airlie Beach Foreshore will come alive with music, dancing, and festival fun at Beats on the Beach—a night not to be missed!
Kicking off from 6pm on Saturday, 2 August, the at Hotel Group Stage will set the scene with local favourites Baldi & Heidi, before the high-energy trio OBISUN take over with their infectious world beats and family-fuelled fun. Expect backflips, wild drum solos, and a groove-heavy performance packed with audience participation.
The night will be headlined by none other than CARAVÃNA SUN, fresh off their European tour. Known for their surfy, ska-infused rock and euphoric dance vibes, the Sydney-based band promises a powerful performance featuring their newest track Hearts Awake.
Adding even more sparkle, festivalgoers will get a sneak peek of Magnums’ new cabaret show NOSTALGIA—a high-energy, family-friendly spectacle fusing dance, circus, and iconic hits from the 60s to 2000s.
The Reef Bar will keep drinks flowing on the foreshore, and Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street returns with plenty of eats to keep revellers fuelled.
🎟️ Tickets: $15 online or $20 at the gate
🎟️ Free entry to the foreshore for those who want to chill out on a picnic rug and enjoy the vibe.
Don’t miss the official After Party at Paddy’s Shenanigans, featuring live music and free entry for wristband holders.

Breeze into Sunday with Music, Mates and Ocean Views
Ease into your Sunday in true Whitsundays style at Sunday Sounds, the most laid-back event of the Great Barrier Reef Festival. From 2pm, the Reef Bar becomes your beachside sanctuary, serving cold drinks, smooth tunes, and relaxed coastal vibes all the way into sunset.
Lounge on the lawn, sip something refreshing, and soak up the salty air as live music drifts across the foreshore. Whether you're winding down after a weekend of fun or keeping the good times rolling a little longer, Sunday Sounds is all about kicking back and enjoying the moment.
🎶 Live Music Line-Up:
   • Brad Butcher – Central Queensland’s soulful country storyteller with Golden Guitars to his name.
   • JC & The Tree – A Sunshine Coast duo blending folk-rock with rich acoustic layers, violin, and harmonious vocals.
   • David Flower – A bluesy, upbeat force of funk, folk, and rock whose energy sets the perfect Sunday tone.
Bring your mates, grab a drink, and settle in for an unforgettable close to the festival.
   • What: Sunday Sounds
   • Where: Foreshore Reef Bar
   • When: Sunday 3rd August 2025, from 2pm

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Mackay’s City Centre has come alive in spectacular fashion as Daly Bay Illuminate lights up the night.

Kicking off on Thursday, July 24, the city has been transformed into a glowing wonderland, with giant amphibian inflatables and large-scale projections showcasing First Nations stories and community artwork.

Running nightly from 6pm to 9pm until Sunday, July 27, the vibrant display is turning heads and drawing crowds as part of the 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Daly Bay Illuminate was a tremendous spectacle for the whole family and this year would not disappoint.

“This year, there is no start or finish point – your route is completely up to you,” Mayor Williamson said.

“With eight giant inflatable amphibians, called Night Walkers, and four spectacular large-scale projections on some of our most iconic buildings, you can take a self-guided tour through the City Centre,” he said.

“One of the projections, on the side of the old Pioneer Shire building, has been created by artist Donna Maree Robinson, whose beautiful artwork features on the front cover of this year’s Mackay Festival of Arts program.

“Why not book in for dinner in a City Centre restaurant, enjoy some live music and then do some late-night shopping as you stroll from artwork to artwork?”

MECC Festival Coordinator Phoebe Short said Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub would be on at the same time as Daly Bay Illuminate at Caneland Park.

“Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub will this year offer a blend of music, culinary delights and fun for the whole family,” Ms Short said.

“As well as some Night Walkers, a special feature at the Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub will be Shimmer – a glowing, dreamlike world inspired by tropical pond life created by the Mackay community and students,” she said.

“We’ve also got different live music playing each night, and a fantastic selection of food vendors coming to the event, offering delicious dumplings, barbecue ribs, gourmet sausages, waffles, ice cream and so much more,” she said.

“This is going to be a fantastic night out for the family and the team are excited to be able to share this wonderland of vivid colours and lights with our community and visitors to the region,” she said.

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts Festivals Australia Program.

For more information on these events and the 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts, visit themecc.com.au/festivals.

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Last week, the Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival celebrated its 21st year with a vibrant launch, immersive school activities, and a memorable keynote presentation, all encompassing the power of stories and the importance of regional voices in Australia’s literary landscape.

The festival officially opened on Wednesday night at Whitsunday Anglican School, with Principal Andrew Wheaton welcoming guests and reflecting on the significance of the event for country and regional students.

“Tonight represents the opening of the 21st Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival… with 17 outstanding authors and illustrators contributing on the world stage,” Mr Wheaton said.

“It throws students back into the great world of being immersed within a story.”

He also acknowledged the vital role of the community in making the festival possible, crediting the tremendous support of 53 local businesses and many volunteers in the Mackay and Whitsunday community.

Throughout the day on Thursday and Friday, more than 9,000 students from over 80 schools across a region spanning 100,000 square kilometres participated in workshops, author talks, and interactive sessions, seizing an extraordinary opportunity to engage directly with some of Australia’s most celebrated authors and artists.

A representative from Whitsunday Anglican School described the festival’s first day as “epic.”

“From book signings to belly laughs and lightbulb moments – the energy was off the charts!

“We loved seeing students getting stuck into workshops and sessions, asking brilliant questions, and soaking up every second of the Festival fun.”

“Day 1 of Whitsunday Voices was absolutely buzzing with energy, creativity, and excitement!

“From the moment the buses rolled in, the Festival came alive with enthusiastic students, passionate presenters, and a whole lot of literary magic.”

The second day continued the momentum, bursting with creativity, laughter and inspiration as students dived into storytelling, poetry, illustration, and big ideas. The festival’s diverse program allowed students to explore multiple facets of literature, from graphic novels and picture books to slam poetry and storytelling workshops.

“Our incredible guests kept the crowds hooked – sharing their journeys, sparking conversations, and reminding us all of the power of words,” the festival team said.

“Huge thanks to our visiting schools, speakers, sponsors, and Purple Army volunteers for making it another unforgettable day.”

On Friday evening, the festival’s highlight was the DBI Literary Dinner featuring keynote speaker Nedd Brockmann, the Australian legend whose epic 4,000-kilometre run across the country raised millions to fight homelessness. Fresh off the success of his Netflix documentary RUNN, Brockmann captivated the sold-out crowd with an honest, humorous, and heartfelt presentation. His story of grit, passion, and purpose inspired attendees and reinforced the festival’s theme of empowerment through storytelling.

Festival Manager Liz Russell reflected on the unique power of hearing stories directly from their creators.

“There’s something truly special about hearing a story straight from its creator. The Festival encourages students to explore where literature can take them – creatively, emotionally and even professionally.”

“This year’s program is bursting with talent. We’ve gathered some of Australia’s most celebrated authors and illustrators to share their stories, ideas and passion with our young readers.”

Among the star-studded lineup were international best-selling authors Amie Kaufman and Katherine Battersby, local silk artist and author Kim Michelle Toft, award-winning STEAM author Cristy Burne, the dynamic Bin Chicken series writers Kate and Jol Temple, and Chicago-born slam poetry master Miles Merrill.

Katherine Battersby, a Mackay-born author and illustrator, spoke of the personal significance of returning to her old school to ignite a new generation’s imagination.

“It’s very special to come back into the classrooms I learned in and share my passion for art and literature,” she said.

“This is my old school, so being here again is truly close to my heart.”

Battersby highlighted her popular graphic novel series Cranky Chicken, designed to support reluctant readers transitioning to chapter books.

Miles Merrill, founder of the Australian Poetry Slam, inspired students with his spoken word performances and workshops.

“I enjoy inspiring people… creating spaces where others can share their poems and stories,” Merrill said.

“We are experts in our own experience. Start there and expand outward.”

He encouraged young writers to find inspiration in everyday life.

The festival also featured two book launches, including a new “choose-your-own-adventure” novel by George Ivanoff and Amy Doak’s third book in the award-winning Eleanor Jones series, Eleanor Jones is Playing With Fire.

The event went beyond literature, incorporating live student musicians, Eat Street food stalls, a roaming puppeteer, a chess puzzle challenge, and storytelling sessions, all designed to engage and entertain the community.

Reflecting on the festival’s mission in a world dominated by digital distractions, Principal Wheaton remarked, “This festival is more than a program of events. It’s a movement.

“Regional Australia isn’t waiting for opportunity to come to us – we’re creating it.”

Mr Wheaton emphasised the festival’s unique role in providing rural and regional students with rare access to world-class creative talent.

“We’re proud to be a school that does such amazing things for the region.”

“To be able to be part of this journey, which started 21 years ago, and to continue it with such tremendous community support, is truly special.”

The festival’s success was attributed to a vast network of local support, with more than 150 student volunteers, dedicated staff, and the invaluable contribution of sponsors such as Whitehaven, BHP BMA, and the Winchester Foundation.

Mr Wheaton extended gratitude to all those who helped bring the festival to life, from teachers and IT staff to the facilities team and the “beloved Purple Army” volunteers who often give up to three full days to ensure smooth operations.

As the curtain fell on another inspiring year, the festival left a lasting legacy – one of creativity, community, and the enduring magic of stories passed from one generation to the next.

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Last week, the 21st Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival brought together over 9,000 students, 17 acclaimed authors and illustrators, and a passionate community to celebrate the power of storytelling and the importance of regional voices in inspiring the next generation. Photo source: Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival and Hannah McNamara

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Bluewater Fling Celebrates Scottish Pride With Massed Pipes And Family Fun

This weekend, the Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling returns to the Bluewater Quay, transforming the riverside into a sea of tartan, toe-tapping tunes and highland pride. Held on Saturday, July 26 from 1.30pm to 5pm, this much-loved community event has been officially included in the Mackay Festival of Arts program, and promises to be bigger, louder, and more heartfelt than ever.

At its core, the event is a celebration of Mackay’s proud Scottish heritage, named for Scottish sea captain John Mackay, who left his legacy, and his surname, on the region. And fittingly, this year’s Fling features a powerful line-up of local and visiting pipe bands, highland dancers, Celtic musicians, and even medieval warriors in full combat.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson is encouraging locals to don a kilt, grab a picnic rug, and immerse themselves in the sound of the massed pipes.

“Since 2016, all but one year because of COVID, we’ve had the mass pipes and drums march across the Forgan Bridge, ending up here at Bluewater Quay for a great afternoon of Scottish celebration,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Just to see them and hear them marching across the bridge is absolutely outstanding.”

He said while the Bluewater Fling wasn’t designed as a tourism drawcard, it was a powerful community builder.

“It’s not about bringing people into Mackay. It’s about entertainment for locals… it’s a mark of respect for our heritage here,” he said.

Event organiser and Mackay & District Pipe Band member Deb Orr said the team was proud to welcome over half a dozen bands this year, helping celebrate the band’s 99th anniversary.

“Next year is our hundredth anniversary and we’re very proud of that.

“We even marched at the opening of the new Forgan Bridge… and the old one, too!”

“Most of our members are performing, but we also set up the Quay. The tents, vendors, the works, and then take it all down after.”

The Mackay Pipe Band, which teaches for free and runs entirely on community spirit, is always welcoming new members, and no, you don’t need to be Scottish.

“It’s all about passion,” said Deb.

“Most of our members are adult learners, and we’ve got a bunch of young learners too.”

One of those passionate players is Derek Martin, a proud Glaswegian who now calls Mackay home. Derek has been playing for 20 years and says the pipes stir deep emotion in people, including himself.

“When we play... at a lot of funerals, a lot of weddings and events... the emotion that the instrument brings… people just love it,” he said.

The event is free and family-friendly, with food trucks, Scottish vendors, re-enactment displays, and live performances from Piping MaD, Kathleen Campbell, the Mackay Highland Dancers, and more.

For more details or to get involved, email: treasurer@mackaypipeband.com.au

What: The Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling
When: This Saturday, 26 July 2025 | 1:30pm–5:00pm
Where: Bluewater Quay, Mackay
Free entry – part of the Mackay Festival of Arts

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The Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling returns this Saturday with massed pipes, dancers, medieval re-enactments and live Celtic music, celebrating local Scottish heritage as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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A powerful contemporary British tragicomedy is set to take centre stage at the Pinnacle Playhouse this Saturday as part of the Mackay International Film Festival.

Hard Truths, one of the standout films of 2024, is a darkly humorous yet emotionally resonant exploration of modern family life in London. The film follows two polar-opposite sisters as they grapple with grief, conflict, and healing in the wake of personal hardship. Tackling themes such as loss, reconciliation and the messiness of family dynamics, Hard Truths has been praised for its depth and compassion.

Audiences can expect a standout performance by Marianne Jean-Baptiste in the lead role, anchoring a film that is as thought-provoking as it is moving.

Screening will begin at 7:00pm on Saturday 26 July at Pinnacle Playhouse. Tickets are available now via trybooking.com/DBRGI, or can be purchased at the venue from the FAM table 30 minutes prior to the screening. A return coach and meal package is also available, though seats are limited.

For tickets, updates and the full MIFF program, visit:
filmartsmackay.weebly.com/film-festivals

The Mackay International Film Festival is proudly supported by Screen Queensland and Mackay Regional Council, with ongoing support from Mackay Festivals.

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