Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Friday 24th April Conversations with Art 1.30pm Held one Friday a month at Artspace Mackay, Conversations with Art invites the community to slow down and step inside the world of creativity through relaxed, guided discussion led by gallery staff. Running from 1.30pm to 3.00pm on selected dates between April and November, the free sessions explore artworks and images from gallery and museum collections in an engaging, open format. Designed for all experience levels, from curious beginners to practising artists, the program offers an inclusive space to reflect, question and connect through art. Free tickets available. Artspace Mackay Youth Fest ‘26 2.30pm Young people across Mackay are invited to celebrate Queensland Youth Week at Youth Festival ’26, a free afternoon of entertainment, creativity and connection hosted by the Mackay Youth Council at Northern Beaches Community Hub. Running from 2.30pm to 6.00pm on Friday 24 April, the event will feature free food, live music, visual arts, games, sports and a range of interactive activities designed to bring the community together. Open to ages 11 to 18, Youth Fest ’26 offers a welcoming space to relax, meet new people and try something different in a vibrant, youth-focused atmosphere. Northern Beaches Community Hub Community Jam At Friday Flow 6pm Community members are invited to kick back and enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the river at Community Jam Friday Flow at Bluewater Quay. Running for two and a half hours, the free community gathering offers something for all ages, with children able to burn off energy on a fun gymnastics airtrack while adults unwind to live music from Jamesley. Food and drinks will also be available, creating the perfect setting to catch up with friends, enjoy the waterfront atmosphere and ease into the weekend with the local community. Bluewater Quay Saturday 25th April ANZAC Services Refer to page 10 for a full list of ANZAC Day services taking place across the Mackay and Isaac regions. A wide range of dawn, morning and commemorative services will be held, offering multiple opportunities for the community to come together, pay respects and honour those who laid their life down before us. Abundance Day 9am Come Along for Abundance Day, a celebration of sharing, connection and homegrown produce hosted by the MCG Crew. The event encourages residents to bring along excess fruit, vegetables, seeds or garden harvests, from pumpkins to citrus and everything in between, to share with others in the spirit of “people care and fair share.” Held as a relaxed community gathering, the day also includes a shared morning tea, with participants welcome to bring a plate to contribute. Abundance Day celebrates gardens of all sizes and aims to revive a simple tradition of generosity, sustainability and community spirit through the gift of fresh, seasonal produce. 7 Sarah Street, Mackay Artist Book Collective 10.30am Held on the fourth Sunday of each month, the Artist Book Collective (ABC) invites creatives across the region to connect through the art of bookmaking at Artspace Mackay. Running from 10.30am to 12.30pm in the Workshop Room within the Civic Precinct on Gordon Street, the community-led group brings artists together to share skills, exchange ideas and draw inspiration from the Mackay Regional Council Artists’ Book Collection. New members are encouraged to attend and contribute to a growing local network of book artists, fostering collaboration and creative exploration in a welcoming, hands-on environment. Free tickets available 61 Gordon Street, Mackay True Street ANZAC Day Meet 4pm Gather this ANZAC Day for the True Street Car Meet, beginning from 4.00pm by the beach at Mulherin Park, East Point Avenue near the Surf Life Saving Club. The family-friendly event offers an afternoon showcase of vehicles in a relaxed coastal setting, with space for children to play, a nearby playground, and plenty of room to unwind with a chair or picnic blanket. Attendees are encouraged to settle in and enjoy the sunset atmosphere, with a BBQ also possible on the day. The gathering offers a laid-back way for the community to come together and reflect on ANZAC Day, under the spirit of remembrance and connection. Mulherin Park, East Point Avenue near the Surf Life Saving Club Tuesday 28th April BMA Kids Space 9.30am enjoy BMA Kidspace, a free monthly program for children aged 0–5 years at Artspace Mackay. Running from 9.30am to 1.30pm one Tuesday each month, the drop-in program offers hands-on art-making, live music, singing and dancing in a relaxed, co-operative learning environment. Two art sessions and a dedicated music session allow families to come and go throughout the morning. Supported by Artspace Mackay and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, the program encourages early creativity, play and connection, with no bookings required. Artspace Mackay Free safeTALK Suicide Prevention 6pm Community members are encouraged to attend a free safeTALK Suicide Prevention training session, with bookings essential via www.grapevinegroup.org.au/safeTALK. The workshop teaches participants how to identify someone at risk of suicide, start conversations with people experiencing suicidal thoughts, and connect them with appropriate support services. Delivered by qualified LivingWorks trainers, the internationally recognised program builds practical, life-saving awareness. Places are strictly limited to 30 participants, with early booking recommended. Parents may also bring teenagers aged 15 and over to take part in the training. Ocean International
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Feathers will fly for Mackay audiences when Circa’s Duck Pond arrives to the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on 6 May, reimagining Swan Lake as a contemporary circus spectacular. Directed by Yaron Lifschitz, the production is packed with Circa’s signature physicality and a bold, playful energy. Replacing classical ballet with aerials, acrobatics and tightly choreographed ensemble work, Duck Pond delivers spectacle with a wink. Cheeky visual moments - including a sequinned, flipper-wearing duck army and a burlesque Black Swan - bring humour and surprise to the stage. While the energy is high, the story remains central. Drawing on the familiar tale of swans and hapless princes, the production balances athletic performance with warmth and wit. "Grappling with a masterpiece like Swan Lake is terrifying. Everyone knows the Dance of the Cygnets and the 32 fouettés," says Circa Artistic Director Yaron Lifschitz. "Our role is to bring them into circus and into the twenty-first century. Circus is nowhere near as precise or as refined as ballet. It tends to be shaggy, possibly more exciting, but definitely less elegant. We have to dance that line with as much grace as we can muster." said Lifschitz. Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager of Major Venues, said the production offered something unique for Mackay audiences. “Ballet and circus perform exceptionally well in Mackay, and Circa’s distinctive approach makes this production even more special,” he said. “We’re proud to bring Duck Pond to Mackay and strongly encourage audiences to see Circa in action,” Bobeldyk said. Touching, funny and thoroughly entertaining, Duck Pond is ultimately a story about identity and finding your true self - offering Mackay audiences a fresh and unexpected take on a beloved classic. Duck Pond by Circa will perform one show only on 6 May. Tickets are on sale now. **BREAKOUT/HIGHLIGHT BOX FOR THE BELOW** The MECC and Circa present – Duck Pond Wednesday 6 May, 7.30pm MECC Auditorium Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
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What began in 2016 as a local initiative with a clear purpose has developed into one of Mackay’s most established and impactful community fundraising events. The Key Solutions -M&P Services Annual Charity Golf Day was founded to support those in need across the region, and over the past decade it has become a consistent platform for business, community and charity to come together in a shared effort of giving. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $350,000 for local charities, including $75,000+ in 2025 alone, with support directed to 13 local organisations in the most recent year. The growth of the event reflects a sustained and structured commitment to community investment, underpinned by strong participation from sponsors, players and supporters across the region. In 2025 there was $35,000 in prizes and giveaways on the day plus the mega raffle of a $39,000 club house. The event is a clear winner for the biggest event of its kind in North Queensland. Beneficiaries over the years have included a wide range of vital services and organisations such as Chances House, BMA-CQ Rescue, Ronald McDonald House, Community Accommodation Support Agency, Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, Kidney Support Network, Wildlife Rehabilitation Queensland, Mackay Netball Association, Project Pink, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Mackay Community Visitors Association, Trudy Crowley Foundation & Mackay Cutters Change the Game with a main focus of “Funds Stay Local”. The event wouldn’t be possible without the reoccurring support from some well-known local business who identify the benefits of supporting this well-known charitable event with companies like Key Solutions Group, QCCS, MM Electrical Mackay, Blacksmith Jacks, GB Electrical, RIMEX, SCIG, Harvey Norman and Penske all supporting the event year on year. The 10th Annual Charity Golf Day in 2025 marked a significant milestone, both in scale and impact. With more than 100 donated raffle prizes and auction items, alongside experiential packages valued at over $70,000, the event delivered another strong result for the community. A defining moment came when Mr Rod Allen from Inspec Industries won the $39,000 SCIG Clubhouse, before making the immediate decision to donate it directly to the Trudy Crowley Foundation – an act that captured the true meaning of the day. M&P Services has consistently acknowledged that the success of the event is driven by collective community contribution, with enduring support from sponsors, participants, volunteers and the Mackay Golf Club forming the foundation of its continued growth. Looking ahead, preparations are now underway for the 2026 M&P Services / Key Solutions Group Annual Charity Golf Day, scheduled for Friday 14th August 2026 at Mackay Golf Course. The event will once again bring together business and community leaders for a day centred on connection, competition and measurable local impact. With demand increasing each year and the event traditionally reaching capacity through returning supporters, organisers are encouraging expressions of interest via marketing@mpservices.net.au.
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Founded in 1986 as a modest mechanical and panel shop, M&P Services always punched above its weight. Building on a strong reputation, the family business quickly became a trusted name within the local community. Forty years on, it has grown into an enterprise with not just regional, but national impact. What began as a hands-on service operation, built on practical skill, long hours, and a commitment to getting the job done right, has evolved into a diverse enterprise spanning fleet servicing, transport/logistics and, more recently, the manufacturing of portable buildings and homes. Managing director, Max Lamb Jr, explained: “We're making some pretty big waves against national competition, and we've got a lot of unique products that we've developed ourselves which are changing the way portables are getting utilised.” Their biggest success has been in creating mobile wheeled infrastructure, sought out by clients within mining and construction. These ‘mobile crib units’, fully equipped with all modern amenities, have become an integral part of numerous projects across Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea. The units offer rapid deployment, are easy to transport and offer superior safety, productivity and are especially popular in the current climate providing significant and measurable fuel savings on mining circuits. They cater to industries such as mining, construction, civil and remote area services, providing workers with comfortable, fully functional living and workspaces even in the most challenging environments. Dedicated to staying local, M&P Services manufactures from their purpose built 15m facility in Paget, meeting or exceeding rigorous industry standards. According to Max Jr, the company’s ability to tailor these solutions to the unique demands of clients across various sectors has been key to its ongoing success. As M&P Services expands its operations, it continues to innovate in the field of transportable and modular buildings. Looking back, the company’s success began all the way back in 1986 with Max’s father (Max Snr) and his business partner Peter Brayshaw (dec). “They were just two mates that would hang out on weekends, go fishing and skiing, and have a beer together.” Max Jr said. “At M&P they were performing both mechanical and panel repairs on vehicles, trucks, and trailers. “Fast forward to 40 years, and we're still in the service industry, but the focus has changed.” Though their output has evolved, Max pointed out, the same mentality underpins the mission as it did in 1986. “In the early days of the business, Dad built a good reputation by getting the job done, whether it be loading trucks on weekends, working weekends and all hours of the day or night, as required. “His mentality to just roll your sleeves up and get through the work laid the foundation for what we do now; we just get on with the job, working to a good time frame, and working closely with clients to make sure that they're satisfied.” The strength of M&P’s family values is evidenced by the long-standing staff who have stayed loyal to the business over decades. “The longevity of my employees a makes my job much easier and contributes to easy," Max said. “A large percentage of our staff have been with us more than five and ten years, a few over fifteen and twenty.” Max Jr himself has been with the company since 1992, taking the helm and buying into the business when Mr Brayshaw retired in 1997. “Having worked at the business as an apprentice mechanic from 1992, I've been part of the stunning transformation since," he said. “I still enjoy coming to work every day after 34 years” With his father’s hardworking genes and a vision for design and growth, Max Lamb Jr has led M&P to become one of the largest portable building manufacturers in regional Queensland, but his sights remain firm on the road ahead. What’s a business value you uphold? Giving back to the community. We’re very proud of our annual golf day; we’re holding our eleventh this year. Last year, we raised $75,000 to distribute amongst 13 different local charities. mpservices.net.au
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The vibrant spirit of live entertainment is set to shine once again across the Whitsundays, as the high-energy “SOS” tribute show brings the unforgettable music of ABBA to both locals and visitors this April. With two performances scheduled across the weekend, this event is more than just a concert—it’s a celebration of community, nostalgia, and the region’s growing cultural scene.
For a destination like Whitsundays and the ever-popular Airlie Beach, events like this play a vital role in keeping the local economy and social calendar thriving. Tourism may be the backbone of the region, but it’s experiences like live music shows that give visitors a reason to stay longer, spend more, and connect with the area on a deeper level.
“SOS” delivers a dazzling tribute to one of the world’s most beloved pop groups, combining iconic hits with the glitter and groove of 70s disco. With elaborate costumes, spot-on vocals, and infectious energy, the show offers a chance for audiences to relive the magic of a golden era in music. More importantly, it creates a shared experience—bringing together residents, hospitality workers, and tourists alike on the dance floor.
Community events like this also highlight the Whitsundays as more than just a scenic getaway. They position the region as a lively cultural hub capable of hosting quality entertainment, helping to attract future acts and build a stronger arts presence. For local businesses—from restaurants to accommodation providers—the ripple effect is significant, with increased foot traffic and a boost in weekend trade.
As the region continues to grow and evolve, embracing events like the “SOS” ABBA tribute ensures that the Whitsundays remain not only a beautiful place to visit, but an exciting place to be. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or simply looking for a fun afternoon or evening out, this is one event that promises to have the whole community saying, “Thank you for the music.”
WHAT: The Australian ABBA Tribute Show: SOS
WHEN: Saturday April 11 and Sunday April 12, 2pm-5.30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
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Photo source: Facebook
Elise Dunckis is this weeks winner, on the theme of Planet Earth. She took this wonderful photo of an incoming storm at Byerwen Coal Mine, Suttor near Glenden.
Next week’s theme is “Street Life”, and budding photographers can enter on the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook Page.
Photo contributed with thanks to the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Group.
Flower Delight featured as the March exhibition at Sarina Arts Council’s Sarina Gallery, highlighting a wonderful selection of floral-inspired artworks. Visitors can look forward to new works arriving this April.
Photo source: Sarina Arts Council, Sarina Gallery
Friday 3rd April
The Way Of The Cross
From 5pm
The community is warmly invited to gather at Bluewater Quay on 3 April at 5pm for The Way of the Cross, a reflective Good Friday event exploring the story behind one of Christianity’s most significant days. Attendees are encouraged to bring a chair and settle in for an evening of familiar songs and shared reflection. The free event will feature nothing for sale, keeping the focus on the message of the day and the meaning behind the question, “Why is Good Friday good?” Everyone is welcome to come along and be part of the experience.
Bluewater Quay
Saturday 4th April
Easter Carnival
From 9:30am
Families are invited to hop into the Easter spirit at the Easter Fun Hub this Easter Saturday, with a morning of free activities set to bring smiles to children and adults alike. Running from 9:30am to 1:30pm outside R.M. Williams, the event promises a festive atmosphere with Easter bonnet craft, face painting, balloon twisting and a fun Easter egg hunt. Children will also have the chance to meet the Easter Bunny. With no bookings required and plenty of family friendly entertainment on offer, the community is warmly encouraged to come along and join in the celebrations.
Caneland Central
Hop & Hunt Easter Festival Extravaganza
From 3pm
Families are invited to enjoy a festive afternoon by the water when Harbour Moon Markets joins forces with the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club for a community Easter celebration on Saturday, 4 April at 67 East Point Drive. From 3pm to 6pm, visitors can enjoy free children’s activities including jumping castles, face painting, balloon fun, an Easter egg hunt and photos with the Easter Bunny, while live music from Soul Vibes and more than 30 market stalls create a lively atmosphere. Food trucks, coffee, freshly made pizzas and pies will be available, with a free sausage sizzle for the first 200 people. Adult entry is $2, supporting the club’s Nippers program.
The Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club
Sunday 5th April
Resurrection Sunday Dawn Service
5.15am
The community is warmly invited to gather for a Resurrection Sunday Dawn Service at Bluewater Quay at 5:15am on Easter Sunday, 5 April. The outdoor service will mark the Easter morning message of hope and renewal, reflecting the theme of turning darkness into glorious day. All are welcome to attend this early morning gathering by the river, offering a peaceful and meaningful way to begin Easter Sunday.
Bluewater Quay
Wednesday 8th April
School Holiday Activities At The Botanical Gardens
From 9am
Families are invited to explore the beauty of Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens these school holidays with a fun self guided activity designed to get children discovering the plants and wildlife of the gardens. Activity sheets can be collected from the Visitor Information Centre between 9am and 3pm from Wednesday to Friday, 8 to 10 April. Young explorers can take part in an “I Spy” challenge featuring the garden mural and a leaf hunt that encourages a closer look at the fascinating shapes and textures found throughout the gardens.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
What began as a simple idea to brighten a rail underpass in the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens has blossomed into a vibrant, educational landmark. The ‘Connecting Gardens Through Art’ project has transformed the tunnel along Nebo Road into a stunning showcase of the region’s native plants and wildlife, offering visitors both beauty and insight as they pass through.
The mural was made possible by the Mackay Branch of Native Plants Queensland – Society for Growing Australian Plants, which secured funding through the Regional Arts Development Fund. Local mural and botanic artist Kate Brunner brought the concept to life, supported by volunteer artists from Mackay’s Botanical Art Interest Group.
Plant species depicted in the mural include the Mount Blackwood Holly, Koumala Range Actephila, Mackay Cedar, and Leichhardt Tree. Local native wildlife also features prominently, including the Ulysses butterfly, platypus, bandicoots, Barking Owl, and Red-tailed Black Cockatoos.
Maya Harrison, chairperson of the Botanical Art Interest Group, played a pivotal role in the project.
She worked on finer details, including insects and spiders, and contributed to the background painting, such as the mountains and rivers.
Mrs Harrison highlighted the importance of representing Mackay’s unique flora.
“It’s really important because the Botanic Gardens is showcasing our regional plants. The mural connects two sections of the gardens and celebrates the forest and its native life,” she said.
The project began in August last year, with extensive preparation including cleaning the walls and applying an undercoat to ensure the paint would adhere properly.
“We thought it would take a couple of months, but once we got into the details, it just kept stretching out. We were here four out of seven days most weeks,” Mrs Harrison explained.
The mural has quickly become an interactive experience for visitors, with many stopping to admire the artwork and ask questions.
The initiative was a collaborative effort from the outset, led by Pamela Finger, who secured the grant and coordinated the participating groups.
“It’s fantastic to see the project from the application stage to fruition. Connecting the gardens through art has really brought the space together,” Mrs Finger said.
Today, the mural provides a colourful and educational pathway through the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, allowing visitors to explore and appreciate the region’s natural beauty while enjoying an immersive artistic experience. It stands as a celebration of local flora, fauna, and community creativity, inviting everyone to stop, look, and learn.
For more information on the mural, visit Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens – Connecting Gardens Through Art.
Mayor Greg Williamson with volunteer artists Barbra, Maya, Kate, Julie and Pamela, who have transformed the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens tunnel into a vibrant showcase of local flora and fauna. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Weather is no longer a barrier at Sarina Art Gallery, where they officially opened its upgraded outdoor space featuring a new roof, made possible by a community grant of over $29,000 from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank.
The opening allowed guests to view the gallery’s latest exhibition and experience the new covered space, which now provides a comfortable, protected environment for visitors.
The extension creates an all weather, sun smart area that allows the gallery to host workshops, exhibitions and performances year round, while also offering a welcoming place for the community to gather and connect.
“By supporting local arts and culture, we’re helping to build community capacity and enhancing Sarina as a place to live and to visit,” said Community Bank Sarina Board Chair, Karen May.
“This outdoor extension cover gives the gallery the opportunity to grow its programs and create more opportunities for people to come together and engage with the arts.”
Mary Ann Slater, President of the Sarina Art Gallery, said the new space has already made a significant difference.
“This project has transformed our outdoor area into a versatile, all-weather space,” Ms Slater said.
“We can now confidently plan workshops and events without worrying about the weather, creating more opportunities for people to come together, learn and be part of the gallery.”
The project was installed by a locally approved builder using eco friendly materials where possible, with ongoing maintenance scheduled in collaboration with Council to ensure long term durability.
Sarina Art Gallery is open seven days a week at Railway Square (Sarina Field of Dreams), near the Sarina Sugar Shed. To find out more about upcoming events, search ‘Sarina Arts Council, Sarina Gallery’ on Facebook.
0258 – (L-R) Kristina Douglas, Community Bank Sarina (CBS) staff member Josie Dahtler, CBS Board Deputy Chair Maree Franettovich, Sarina Art Gallery President Mary-Ann Slater, CBS Board Chair Karen May, and CBS staff members Di Owens and Kylie Schulze at the Sarina Art Gallery opening celebration.
0090 - Sarina Art Gallery’s new all-weather outdoor area, made possible by a community grant of over $29,000 from Community Bank Sarina Bendigo Bank. Photos supplied
This week’s poem is from Kaye Cronan. Kaye said that it is for all those people who have moved to a regional area following Covid and have realised they don’t need return to a crowded and noisy city.
THE TREE CHANGE
Let’s get away from the stress of city life,
Buy a block and leave the traffic and strife.
We’ll implement a long dreamt of plan
Being self-sufficient on our bit of land.
There’ll be livestock and chooks all around
Vegies in the garden and crops in the ground
A place with water to make everything grow
If we work really hard, we’ll make it all go.
There’ll be sacrifices; we will live in the shed,
A bit rough and rustic but there’s a comfy bed.
Who needs a McMansion out here in the scrub?
There’s no stress now, away from the city hub.
Out here in the sticks there’s no one to care
When you garden topless and let the boobs air
Life is much slower and that’s just fine
We have time to enjoy a sun downer wine
Just plodding along at our own peaceful pace
It’s good to be away from the city rat race.
We’re not young anymore or so we’ve been told
We’ll just make it all happen before we get old!
Kaye Cronan
March
27 FOGs Regional Tours Bowen Gala Dinner, Queens Beach Hotel, 6pm-9pm
27 Sydney Drag Queen presents WICKED Drag Bingo, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7pm-10pm
27 Speed Networking, Lumos Café 7:30-8:30am
31 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am
April
1 Social Seniors, Cannonvale Library, 9.30am
3-11 Sail Airlie Regatta
7 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am
11 & 12: SOS ABBA Tribute, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm-5:30pm
14 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
16 Morning Melodies – The Beggers sing the Seekers, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11am-12:30pm
21 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am
23 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am
24 Speed Networking, Lumos Café 7:30-8:30am
25 Australian Rock, ANZAC DAY, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm-6pm
28 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
May
1 SPOT, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm-12:50pm
5 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am
6 Social Seniors, Cannonvale Library, 9.30am
12 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
13 Luke Kidgell – Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:30pm
16 & 17 Whitsunday Equestrian Group T-Shirt Competition, Cannonvalley Pony Club, 8am-4pm
18 Placing of the flags, Proserpine Cemetery, 9am
19 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am
21 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am
23 Proserpine Show Ball, Proserpine Showgrounds, 6pm
26 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
29 Speed Networking, Lumos Café, 7:30-8:30am
June
3 Social Seniors, Cannonvale, 9.30am
6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Songwriting Summit, 9.30am-4pm
6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Concert & Conversation, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6pm - 8pm
9 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am
23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
Christine Anu is set to join the lineup for the 2026 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival!
Christine Anu’s acclaimed career spans more than 27 years and includes 17 ARIA nominations, as well as the platinum-selling album Stylin’ Up. She is best known for her signature song My Island Home, originally written by Warumpi Band, which she performed at the Closing Ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games.
Beyond music, Anu’s career spans film, television, and theatre. Her screen credits include appearances in Moulin Rouge! and The Matrix Reloaded, while on stage she has performed in acclaimed productions of Rent and Little Shop of Horrors. Her television roles include appearances in The Alice and Outland.
Her involvement in the 2026 festival is particularly meaningful, as her daughter, songwriter Zipporah, participated in the 2025 festival, performing alongside The Voice winner Chris Sebastian and Golden Guitarist Brad Butcher.
This year, Christine Anu joins an outstanding lineup of award-winning songwriters, instrumentalists and composers, including Mark Sholtez, Francesca de Valence and Karen Jacobsen, with more to be announced.
Supported by the Whitsundays Arts Festival, the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival has been a cultural drawcard for the region since launching in 2022 and was nominated this year in the Queensland Music Awards for Festival of the Year (People’s Choice Award).
Each year, leading Australian songwriters travel to the Whitsundays to take part in a diverse range of workshops and activities designed to nurture talent across the region.
The Songwriting Summit invites local and interstate writers to be mentored by resident artists through immersive masterclasses, skill-building workshops, and a Summit showcase where participants share their work.
The festival culminates in the intimate Concert & Conversation on Saturday, 6 June at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, where resident songwriters perform and share the stories behind the songs created during the residency.
The festival was co-founded by Queensland songwriters Karen Jacobsen and Francesca de Valence to provide regional songwriters with professional development opportunities often only available in major cities.
Since its inception, the festival has hosted an impressive roster of artists including Wendy Matthews, Toni Childs, Vika and Linda, and Graeme Connors.
The Whitsundays Songwriter Festival creative residency runs from 3–7 June 2026, with the Songwriting Summit and Concert & Conversation taking place at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on 6 June. Tickets are available via Humanitix.
The 2026 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival is made possible by the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund, which supports the arts in regional and remote Australia. The festival is presented in partnership with I Heart Songwriting Club and the Whitsundays Arts Festival.
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Photo supplied
Friday 27 March
Eat Street and Live Music
6pm
Enjoy a vibrant day out at the upcoming Eat Street event, featuring live music, great food and family-friendly fun. Attendees can relax to the sounds of Jamesley while savouring a variety of food and drink options on offer. There will also be plenty to keep the kids entertained, including free activities and a gymnastics airtrack to burn off some energy. With something for all ages, the event promises a lively atmosphere and great night out!
Blue Water Quay, Mackay
City Heart Easter Fun
12pm
Families are invited to celebrate Easter with a fun-filled afternoon in the Mackay City Heart, hosted by Harper Bee and Mackay City and Waterfront. Running from 12pm to 5.30pm, the free event features an Easter egg hunt through local businesses, starting at Harper Bee with a clue-filled stamp card. Children can collect eggs before heading to the corner of Wood and Victoria Streets to meet the Easter Bunny. The afternoon also includes games, a colouring competition, Easter craft activities and a relaxing space for families to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
City Heart - 79 Victoria Street, Mackay
Saturday 28 March
Family Fun Day Colour Fun Run
2.30pm
Families are invited to Andergrove for a vibrant day of colour, fun and community spirit at the Family Fun Day Colour Fun Run. Hosted by Monty the Monstar, the event marks the launch of 2026 fundraising efforts for a new playground and upgraded play spaces across the school grounds. With plenty of laughter, colour and family-friendly activities, the day promises an energetic and enjoyable experience for all ages while supporting an exciting cause for the local school community.
DV Fundraiser – Broken Ballerina Inc
9am
Broken Ballerina Inc will be hosting a community fundraiser at Mount Pleasant Centre near Jamaica Blue, raising vital funds to support those impacted by domestic violence. Shoppers are encouraged to stop by and show their support, with Pete’s Caramel Slice, Jules’s Cupcakes and BBI merchandise all available for purchase. The event offers a meaningful way for the community to come together, enjoy some sweet treats and contribute to an important local cause.
Mount Pleasant Centre near Jamaica Blue
Monday 31 March
Seniors Chair Yoga
10.45am
Seniors aged 55 and over are invited to take part in the Northern Beaches Seniors Chair Yoga program, offering a gentle and accessible way to stay active, improve wellbeing and connect with others. Held on Mondays at Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia, the sessions focus on mindful movement, stretching and relaxation, all from the comfort of a chair. With a welcoming atmosphere, morning tea provided and a pay-as-you-go cost of $10, the program is ideal for those seeking a safe and social approach to fitness.
Northern Beaches Community Hall in Bucasia
Huge crowds turned out for the hotly anticipated Dancing with Heart 2026 last weekend, and they were not disappointed.
Loved ones, colleagues and sponsors watched on proudly as participants showed off their hard work, and sparked joy across the audience, dancing routines inspired by iconic performances, from Flashdance to Burlesque.
The amateur dancers became stars of the stage as they represented companies across Mackay, with contributors raising over $90,000 for the My Hospital Foundation, a local organisation dedicated to supporting patients tackling difficult health journeys at Mackay Hospital and Health Service.
Whopping $90,000 Raised at Dancing with Heart
On Friday 20th March, audiences at the MECC were wowed by Dancing with Heart’s fundraising showcase, where local businesspeople laced up their dancing shoes and gave the performance of a lifetime.
The dancers stepped and shimmied out of their comfort zones, hitting the stage to vie for the winning spot with routines developed with choreographer Dolly Louw and the talented dancers from Fame Talent School.
The event raised over $90,000 for the My Hospital Foundation, an amazing achievement made possible by the dancers, sponsors and attendees.
James Bailey from Wallace & Wallace took home the title of overall winner with an energetic routine set to Huey Lewis & The News’ Hip to Be Square. He also swept the award for highest fundraiser, raising a whopping $20,000 just on his own.
The people’s choice winner was Michael Kerr from Haymans Electrical, with an inspiring routine to Believe by Cher. All performances were exceptional, with the event cementing itself as a highlight of the Mackay community calendar.
1 - Michael Kerr representing Hayman Electrical.
2- The seasoned pros backing the amateur dancers.
3 – Michea Kerr, Dirk Nuegebauer & James Bailey.
4 – Dancers from Mackay Fame Talent School provided amazing support.
5 –Chelsea Byrne, Tégan McGovern, Dolly Louw, Sharon Johnston, Janine Jacobson.
6 - Janine Jacobson from Channel 7.
7 - Sharon Johnston from DBCT.
8- Winner James Bailey surrounded by supporters
9 – Dirk Nuegebauer cheered on by the crowd.
10 – James Bailey’s winning performance. Photo source: Facebook
Friday 20 March
Dancing With Heart
6:30pm
A night of entertainment with a purpose, Dancing With Heart returns on Friday 20 March, bringing local personalities to the stage for a fun-filled dance competition. Guided by professional choreographers, participants will perform to raise funds for the My Hospital Foundation. Guests can enjoy dinner, vote for the People’s Choice Award and help support better outcomes for local patients and families.
Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
Saturday 21 March
New Moon Ultra “Off the Beaten Track” Trial Run Series
6am
Test your endurance at this unique overnight trail running event held under the March new moon. Athletes can choose from 6km, 36km or 72km distances, with races starting every hour from 6pm through to 6am. Prize money is up for grabs, and participants will take on exclusive trails only open for this event — making it a one-of-a-kind challenge for runners of all levels.
Rowallan Park
Dads and Bubs Baby Bounce
10am
Dads are invited to bond with their little ones at this fun and interactive Baby Bounce session. Featuring nursery rhymes, songs and playful activities, the session supports early language development from birth to walking age. It’s a great way to connect, create special memories and support your child’s growth. This is a free event, but bookings are essential.
Dudley Denny City Library
Autumn Orchid Show
Saturday 8am – 4pm & Sunday 9am – 2pm
The Mackay & District Orchid Society will host its annual Autumn Orchid Show on March 21–22 at the Senior Citizens Centre on Macalister Street, featuring a stunning display of flowering orchids alongside plants and gardening supplies for sale, including pots, potting medium, tags and hangers, with raffles and refreshments also available; the event runs from 8am to 4pm Saturday and 9am to 2pm Sunday, with a $2 coin entry, and further information is available by contacting President Noel Acton on 0409 637 384.
Senior Citizens Centre, Macalister Street
Rotary Charity Wine Dinner
5:30pm
Enjoy an elegant evening of fine food and wine at the Rotary Charity Wine Dinner on Saturday 21 March. Featuring a five-course degustation with wine pairings, the night also includes a wine auction, raffle and lucky door prizes. Proceeds support charities assisting women and children impacted by domestic violence. Guests can expect a memorable night of dining, giving and community spirit.
Harrup Park Country Club
Sunday 22 March
Cuppa With Your Neighbour – Northern Beaches
9am
Connect with your community at this free “Cuppa with Your Neighbour” event on Saturday 22 March at the Northern Beaches Community Hub. Enjoy a complimentary coffee while meeting locals and making new connections in a relaxed, friendly setting. Proudly supported by the Mackay Regional Council, this welcoming event is open to everyone — whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident.
Northern Beaches Community Hub
Tuesday 24 March
Walk and Talk Book Club
8am
Combine a love of reading with the outdoors at this unique walking book club set in the Botanic Gardens. Meet fortnightly for relaxed walks, chats and book discussions, with a new title to explore each month. Stay after for a social coffee and connect with fellow book lovers. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, sun protection and water for this enjoyable, wellbeing-focused community activity.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Wednesday 25 March
Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam
6pm
Enjoy a night of live music and laid-back vibes at the Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam on Wednesday 25 March at the Seabreeze Hotel. Featuring acclaimed pianist Andrew Farrell, the evening kicks off with a performance before opening the stage for a community jam session. Free entry, with dinner bookings recommended.
72 Pacific Esplanade, Mackay
Thursday 26 March
Wine Society March Event
6:30pm
Wine lovers are invited to the first Wine Society event of 2026 at The Dispensary Mackay on Thursday 26 March. Guests will enjoy an evening of exceptional wine tastings paired with a specially designed menu, hosted by Graeme Connors. Open to both new and returning guests, this relaxed event promises great wine, food and company.
The Dispensary Mackay
The PCYC’s Awakening Spirits 2026 moved audiences on Wednesday 11 March with touching stories told through dance.
An audience of more than 1000 was drawn to watch 200 performers in a sold-out session at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.
Awakening Spirits is an annual performance that brings together young people from 13 schools across Mackay, who take part in PCYC's Cultural Arts in Dance program. Since beginning in 2022, the audience has rocketed from just 175 people to a sold-out audience at the convention centre this year.
The piece performed was ‘The Waterhole’, a concept and story developed by PCYC Queensland’s First Nations Coordinator and the man behind Cultural Arts In Dance, Patrick Thaiday. It is inspired by the magical stories of The Myths and Legends of the Torres Strait, a book written by the late Margaret Lawrie.
The story begins with Tilly, a white sulphur-crested cockatoo, who watches as a plume of smoke rises from the canopy of the Australian outback bush lands. Indigenous warriors and hunters from communities conduct a cultural burn – a land management practice refined over thousands of years. From her vantage point, Tilly observes the hunters moving alongside the fire’s perimeter, tracking animals displaced by its flames.
As the story goes on, the waterhole, long a point of convergence for countless species, begins to change. Tilly notices a dark, viscous substance appearing beneath the surface. Drawn by concern she descends to investigate. As her feet touch the water, the substance adheres to her feathers releasing harsh toxic fumes that engulf her feet. She takes flight only to be flipped over by the weight of her wings. Her bright plumage darkens rapidly, and her beak blackens under the spreading poison. When Tilly rises again, she is no longer the white cockatoo she once was. Transformed by the dark waters, she takes form of a willy wagtail – a creature associated with omens, messages, and transitions. This metamorphosis positions her within a larger conflict, linking her fate to forces that extend far beyond the waterholes edge.
Now known as Willy the Wagtail, she becomes a bearer of warnings and stories, navigating a world where ancient myth and emerging threats collide.
When the story of ‘The Waterhole’ ends, all performers returned to perform a choreographed dance to The Seekers song, I am Australian.
We are one, but we are many
And from all the lands on earth we come
We'll share a dream and sing with one voice
"I am, you are, we are Australian"
The bright smiles, excitement, and emotion from the performers did not leave many dry eyes in the auditorium; the room filling with a feeling: this is what we want our Australia to be.
Contributed with thanks to PCYC Queensland’s First Nations State Partnerships Manager Michael Cedar
1-4 - Spirits were high as Mackay’s young dancing stars took to the stage. Photos supplied.
Follow the Sun’ to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music
Xavier Rudd, Mental as Anything, The Whitlams and more on first lineup announcement for November 2026
The call is out for fans of Xavier Rudd to ‘Follow the Sun’ to the 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music from November 6-8.
Set to arrive straight from a European festival tour, the popular Australian singer-songwriter says in addition to his much-loved catalogue of hits, a few surprises are in store for the Whitsunday audience, hinting: “There will be some new music at this show, which will be played for the first time in Australia”.
Having visited Airlie Beach briefly on previous Australian tours, Rudd is already familiar with the region’s scenic beauty, but this will be his first time playing its signature event, dubbed a ‘party in paradise’ and the ‘ultimate music holiday’.
“From the photos I’ve seen, the festival setting is amazing,” he said.
“My music is definitely a celebration of our natural world, so a place like Airlie feels especially aligned with songs like ‘Follow the Sun’.
“These are the kinds of shows I love, and hopefully, weather permitting, we can actually pull down the tent and play under the stars!”
Equally as famous for his unwavering commitment to social and environmental activism as he is for his extraordinary gifts as a musician, the significance of playing at a destination known as the ‘Heart of the Great Barrier Reef’ isn’t lost on Rudd.
“I’ve been lucky to witness some of the good work that people are doing in the world of reef regeneration and that’s inspiring,” he said.
“Hopefully we can continue down that path.”
Also urging festivalgoers to ‘Live it Up’ in Airlie Beach is beloved Australian band Mental As Anything, whose performance will form part of a historic 50th anniversary tour, comprising a limited number of exclusive festival appearances and select metropolitan headline shows.
Original member and iconic pop artist, Reg Mombassa, is promising fans a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience the band’s timeless hits live once more, and celebrate their unique blend of songwriting, artistry, and performance flair.
“We’re known for being a party band, so the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is a perfect fit,” he said.
In total agreeance that there’s ‘No Aphrodisiac’ quite like it are The Whitlams, whose frontman Tim Freedman says the band is thrilled to be one of the festival’s headliners for 2026.
“I’ve been wanting to return to the Whitsundays for decades and now we have the chance,” he said, adding: “it’s a great line-up, music lifts the soul, and we rock!”
Other additions to the first line-up release include The Radiators, Adam Harvey, 19-Twenty, Skinny Living (UK), Little Quirks, The Mason Rack Band, The Wayward Suns, Loonaloop, Salt & Steel and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2025 Passport to Airlie competition winners Monroe.
Tickets are on sale now at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au costing $325 for a three-day pass, or $1100 for a VIP package, both including entry to the opening and after parties that bookend the main event.
Ends
Media Enquiries: media@airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au / 0402 126 461
On Monday 16th March, North Queensland–raised Judah Kelly attended the 98th Academy Awards in Los Angeles, where the short film he starred in, The Singers, was awarded an Oscar.
The film tied for the win with another short film, in an Oscars occurrence that whilst rare, is indeed possible. This is a huge achievement that represents years of hard work, building craft and nurturing talent; Judah has no doubt made the community incredibly proud.
Born in Townsville, Judah attended school in Bowen where he took part in various school choirs, an experience that inspired his musicianship and developed his performance capabilities. He continued his secondary education in Mackay before attending the Junior Academy of Country Music in Tamworth (NSW).
Judah auditioned for the X Factor in 2012 and 2014. Despite not finding success, he was not deterred, deciding to audition for The Voice in 2017. After singing ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ in a blind audition he made it through the finals, where he became the official winner of the sixth season.
His newest achievement is receiving the Oscar as one of the stars of short film The Singers, which received an award for Best Live Action Short at 98th Academy Awards.
Directed by filmmaker Sam Davis, the film is an 18-minute musical comedy which centres around a spontaneous singing competition that breaks out amongst a group of random patrons in a dive bar. The film is based on the 1850 Ivan Turgenev story of the same name.
Prior to the academy awards, the film had already won 35 awards across 50 film festivals in 2025.
Judah’s inclusion in the film came out of a unique casting process. Rather than hiring actors through traditional means, filmmaker Sam Davis spent months scouring the internet for authentic voices he believed would bring the story to life. As a result, Judah was sought out for his raw vocal talent.
“At first they emailed me to ask me to be in the film and I don’t act so I thought it was just a scam”, Judah said in an interview to Channel Nine’s Today Show prior to the ceremony.
“They were very persistent with getting me to act. Then I found out everyone was a first-time actor and we all thought it was a scam. It turned out they did want us for a film – it’s about men and vulnerability”.
Following the victory, Judah took to Instagram to express his joy.
“We don’t even know how to act. Our film just won an Oscar!”
The film tied with another short feature marking only the seventh time in Oscars’ history that a category closed with two winners.
This is a fantastic achievement, and Judah should be incredibly proud of his efforts. He has certainly made communities across Bowen and Mackay immensely proud.
Captions
Judah Kelly, local legend fresh from Oscar win. Photo sourced: Facebook
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