
Friday 9th October Cuppa Between Chapters 9am - 10am Enjoy a relaxed morning at Dudley Denny City Library, with a warm cuppa, good company and a chance to unwind with a few chapters of your current read. Whether you're after a friendly chat, a quiet moment with a book or simply a change of scenery, this welcoming gathering is a chance to slow down and enjoy some community connection. Bring along your current read or simply come along for a cuppa and a chat. Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay Free Community Suicide Intervention Training 9am - 4pm This free training will equip participants with practical skills to recognise early warning signs of suicide, support people at risk to access available services and encourage help-seeking before a crisis occurs. The session will also provide an opportunity to build confidence in having supportive conversations, while helping participants identify their own self-care strategies. It is a practical opportunity for community members to build their knowledge and feel better prepared to support others. Northern Queensland Primary Health Network, 2/45 Victoria Street, Mackay Sunday 11th October Walk, Talk And Connect At Bucasia 8am Head to Bucasia Esplanade for a relaxed morning of walking, conversation and community connection as part of Queensland Mental Health Week 2026. The Walk & Talk will get underway at 8.15am, with no set distance or pace, making it suitable for all ages and walking abilities. Participants can enjoy the outdoors, meet fellow locals and take part in mindfulness prompts along the way, before heading to Beachfront Bar & Restaurant from 9.15am for light refreshments. Coffee will be available to purchase. Prams are welcome, as are dogs on leads, with one dog per person. Registration is appreciated for catering purposes. Bucasia Esplanade, Bucasia Highway Country Music Family Night 7pm Enjoy a fun family night of country music, friendship and good old-fashioned community spirit at the Highway Country Music Family Night. Everyone is welcome to come along, enjoy the music, catch up with friends and make some new ones in a relaxed community setting. Admission is just $5, with a delicious supper provided free on the night, making it a great opportunity to settle in and enjoy an evening of music and friendship. Bakers Creek Community Hall, Bakers Creek, via Mackay Monday 12th October Introduction To The Australian Job Market 9am - 11am The Neighbourhood Hub presents a practical workshop supporting people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to navigate the Australian employment landscape. Participants will learn about the local job market, connect with others and gain useful knowledge to help strengthen their employment prospects. Whether newly arrived in Australia or looking to build on existing employment opportunities, the session offers practical information and foundational knowledge to help participants better understand the local job market. The Neighbourhood Hub, 4 George Street, Mackay Tuesday 13th October Off The Hook: Knit And Crochet Club 9.30am - 11am Enjoy a relaxed morning of knitting, crochet, cuppas and friendly conversation at this welcoming monthly club. Materials are provided, or bring along your own project and enjoy getting creative while meeting new people. It is a chance to work on a project, pick up your needles or crochet hook and spend some time in good company. Whether you're an experienced crafter or simply looking for a relaxed morning activity, everyone is welcome. Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay
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The countdown is officially on, with less than two months to go until Mackay welcomes one of the most magical exhibitions ever to hit regional Australia. On December 4th 2026, Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic will make its Australian premiere at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, bringing more than a century of Disney imagination, storytelling and cinematic history to the region. For five magical months, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre will showcase more than a century of imagination, storytelling and cinematic history, inviting visitors to step behind the curtain of one of the world's most beloved entertainment companies. Featuring more than 120 extraordinary artefacts, costumes, props and works of art from the Walt Disney Archives, the exhibition will take visitors on an immersive journey through the stories that have captured hearts across generations. From Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to Encanto, visitors will encounter the worlds and characters they know and love, while also exploring the remarkable legacies of Pixar, Star Wars and MARVEL. Across eight imaginatively themed galleries and 12 interactive installations, Disney fans will have the opportunity to experience more than 100 years of history in a way never before seen in Australia. The exhibition has travelled the globe, captivating audiences in cities including London, Paris, Munich, Chicago, Seoul and Madrid. Now, remarkably, its next destination is Mackay. At the official launch event earlier this year, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said he hoped the announcement would encourage people from across the globe to discover exactly what makes the region so special. “Come and see it for yourself and you will understand why it’s here!” With at least 100,000 visitors expected across the five-month season, the exhibition is set to deliver an enormous boost to local tourism, hospitality and businesses, while introducing the Mackay region to audiences from across Australia and potentially around the world. For Disney fans, it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the magic behind the stories that shaped childhoods and continue to inspire new generations. It will all begin with a mouse, a dream and one very magical destination! For more information, or to book tickets, visit disney100exhibit.com/mackay WHAT: Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic WHEN: From 4th December 2026 WHERE: The Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre
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There is something quietly captivating about watching smoke slowly curl into the air, forming shapes that disappear almost as quickly as they arrive. This fitting image for the theme ‘Aromas in Focus’ from this week’s winning photographer Alissa Tominlinson, embodies those delicate whispers rising from an ornate incense burner. Surrounded by pink roses and tiny white flowers, the scene is so vivid you can smell the fragrance off the canvas. The rich colour of the petals and intricate metalwork give the eye plenty to be mesmerized with, while the drifting smoke adds a little mystery to the scene. Congratulations to this Alissa for capturing such a beautiful moment of stillness! The next theme is Glitter and Sparkles, so seek out something shiny. Thank you once again to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing another wonderful collection of images.
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New Record For Mill ? Proserpine Sugar Mill Acting General Manager, Kevin Howell predicted a record through put of 1,150,000 tonnes by the end of season, which was due to new cane varieties 1. Also heavy rainfall brought a premature end to last season leaving a standover of 90,000 tonnes. One Crash Leads To Another. A council gravel truck crashed in Kara Crescent, Airlie Beach. A crane attempting to right the truck went out of control and collided with a fire truck, a stationery MEB truck and then a boat. No-one was injured. Shute Drowning. An English tourist dived off the jetty doing a forward somersault came up then disappeared and was eventually found on the bottom about 15 minutes later. Collinsville Road Link. Plans to close the power station could put the Collinsville- Proserpine Road in doubt. Job Stats For Cannonvale. June Quarter job figures from Cannonvale CES showed that 749 people enrolled of whom 455 obtained jobs. Keep Your Cool. Anticipating hot weather in the coming months [Tuesday’s temperature was 33 degrees] local firm Smith’s Electrical took delivery of 1.5 tonnes of airconditioners valued at $30000 following another consignment 3 weeks ago worth $12000. Terraced Garden Creation. Members of Whitsunday Garden Club, Bob and Shirley Hudson have created a delightful terraced garden out of rugged terrain which contained a variety of multi coloured blooms. Daydream Development. A major development application has been made which would promote Daydream Island to the forefront of local tourism. It includes restaurants, cocktail bar, and executive suites, take 5 years to complete and cost up to $25million. South Molle Invades Bowen; on Sunday 80 Islanders steamed up the coast aboard their high speed catamaran ‘Capricornia ‘and landed on Horseshoe Bay Beach to engage locals in outrigger, paddle ski, men’s and women’s tug’o’war,and tyre tube races among numerous other contests. Tangles Visit. Special guest speaker at the WTA Dinner to be held at the Reef Gateway Hotel will be former test cricketer Max [Tangles] Walker.
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The Whitsundays will come alive with music next July as the Queensland Music Festival (QMF) presents The Reef Trail, a unique event showcasing some of Australia’s most beloved artists in unexpected, picturesque locations. From 2 to 4 July this exciting music journey will unfold across two of the region’s most stunning landscapes: Lake Proserpine and Airlie Beach Foreshore.
The Reef Trail invites locals and visitors alike to experience the Whitsundays like never before. Against the backdrop of turquoise waters and wide open skies, the event will feature intimate performances from popular Australian acts including Boy & Bear, Jem Cassar-Daley, Tjaka, Mid Drift, and Kaylee West. These performances will bring the region’s natural beauty and vibrant culture to life in a way that highlights the connection between music, landscape, and community.
QLD Music Trails, the statewide initiative behind The Reef Trail, aims to introduce music lovers to the hidden gems of Queensland, beyond the traditional venue settings. Daryl Raven, Chief Executive of QMF, explained that The Reef Trail captures the very essence of the initiative, saying, “The Reef Trail brings music into places where Queensland landscapes, regional communities, and culture do the storytelling." The event is designed to encourage people to slow down, follow the music, and discover the region through shared experiences rather than rigid itineraries.
The adventure begins inland at Lake Proserpine, where a relaxed lakeside setting will provide the perfect atmosphere for an afternoon of live music, local food, and family-friendly activities. The journey then moves to Airlie Beach Foreshore, transforming into a vibrant amphitheater where audiences can enjoy music in one of Queensland’s most iconic seaside locations.
This unique event is not only a celebration of music but also of Queensland’s rich stories, vibrant communities, and stunning landscapes.
As Queensland’s Minister for the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek, stated, “The Reef Trail audiences are set to enjoy outstanding live music experiences with popular Australian artists...in idyllic tropical locations.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said The Reef Trail is a fantastic example of how cultural tourism supports the local economy while giving visitors a new reason to explore the Whitsundays.
“From Lake Proserpine to Airlie Beach Foreshore, this Trail invites people to stay longer, experience more and connect with our Whitsunday region in a different way,” Mayor Collins said.
For those looking to enjoy world-class music in an unforgettable setting, The Reef Trail offers an incredible opportunity to experience the Whitsundays like never before. It’s a journey that promises to highlight the region’s cultural heart and natural beauty, making it an event not to be missed.
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Photo supplied

Airlie Beach is set to turn green in the best possible way this March, as the Airlie Beach Hotel rolls out a huge weekend of live music, capped off with a St Patrick’s Day celebration that promises to be one of the liveliest yet.
Kicking things off on Saturday March 14 and Sunday March 15 is a special double-header tribute show celebrating two of the UK’s most iconic bands, U2 and Coldplay. Fans can expect all the big anthems , from “With or Without You” to “Yellow” and “Viva La Vida”, delivered with replica costumes, era-accurate instruments and the kind of stadium energy these bands are famous for.
But it’s Tuesday, March 17 that will truly shine. The hotel’s St Patrick’s Day Party brings the spotlight firmly onto Ireland’s greatest musical export, U2. Headlining the celebration is Rattle and Hum – The U2 Show, Australia’s premier U2 tribute act. Formed in 1997 and boasting more than 2000 performances, the band has built a reputation for its uncanny sound and look, even appearing on national television over the years. With an Irish Bono impersonator front and centre, audiences can expect a high-energy, hit-filled performance that captures the spirit of the real thing.
Alongside the U2 tribute set will be classic Irish rock and pop favourites, plus a special selection of Coldplay songs to keep the dancefloor packed.
Airlie Beach Hotel is putting on a fantastic set of shows you won’t want to miss.
Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th March
WHAT: U2 Rattle and Hum plus Coldplay Show, Free Show
WHEN: 2pm – 5.30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
Tuesday 17th March
WHAT: St Patricks Day Party featuring Ratte & Hum, Sports Bar Stage, Free Show
WHEN: 2pm – 5.30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
*can you make design kind of St Patrick’s Day theme, thanks

The Beach Film Society is back!! After years of being closed, the society saw a successful relaunch at the end of 2025 with 30 existing members. For $55 a year, film lovers are able watch six new releases and five classic screenings that take place on either a Tuesday or Saturday once a month.
The Beach Film Society have announced their first screening of 2026. Occurring on St Patrick’s Day, the screening carries a prevailing Irish theme, as the society will showcase the 1990’s cult classic ‘The Commitments’. Set in Dublin, the film depicts the formation of a jazz band, made up entirely of the Irish working class.
The Beach Film Society will continue to showcase stunning films throughout the year. If you are interested, don’t hesitate to get in contact with the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre.
WHAT: Beach Film Society, screening of ‘The Commitments’
WHEN: Tuesday 17 March, 1:30pm sharp
WHERE: Endeavour Room, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
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Photo source: Shutterstock

Friday 6 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grandview Hotel: Graham Rix (from 8pm)
KCs: Tim Griffin (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
Saturday 7 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Late for Woodstock (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
KCs: Tim Griffin (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Sugarlips (1pm – 5pm)
Sunday 8 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Late for Woodstock (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Noah Davis (1pm – 5pm)
KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: Paul Fergus (1pm – 5pm)
Monday 9 March
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
Tuesday 10 March
KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
Wednesday 11 March
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
Thursday 12 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)

Friday 6th March
2026 Mackay Airport Twilight City Run
6pm
Lace up for the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run on Friday, March 6. This family-friendly 5km fun run will wind through the scenic Bluewater Quay and across the Pioneer River, welcoming runners and walkers of all abilities. The twilight event supports the Leukaemia Foundation and offers a great community atmosphere ahead of the BMA Mackay Marina Run in June.
Bluewater Quay
Saturday 7th march
Mens Breakfast
7.30am
Men are invited to the Iona West Men’s Breakfast at 7:30am on Saturday, March 7 at Iona West Uniting Church. Guest speaker Victor Oziegbe will share his journey migrating to Australia, reflecting on family, faith and perseverance. The relaxed morning gathering offers connection, conversation and breakfast for $5. RSVP by contacting the organisers.
Iona West Uniting Church
Soroptimist International ‘Cut and Sew’ event
10am
Locals are invited to a relaxed community sewing day supporting St. Vincent de Paul Society family support programs. Volunteers will repurpose clean, sturdy fabrics such as curtains and quilt covers into practical bags for community use. No experience or sewing machine is required, with tasks including cutting, sewing and ironing. Participants are also welcome to bring a plate to share for lunch.
Carlyle Gardens - 206 Phillip Street, North Mackay
Sunday 8th March
Social Choccie Milk Run
6am
Early risers can kickstart their Sunday with a relaxed social run departing from Curb Cafe Northpoint at NorthPoint Retail at 6am. The casual outing will follow a scenic route towards The Gooseponds, offering around 30 minutes of easy running or walking before heading back. Open to all fitness levels, the event focuses on community, conversation and fresh air, with participants encouraged to stay afterwards for a well-earned coffee or chocolate milk and a friendly catch-up at the café.
CURB, 8 Windmill Xing, Mount Pleasant
Barefoot Bowls
9am
Get active and social at Marian Bowls Club this Sunday, March 8, with Barefoot Bowls from 9am to 11am. Perfect for all ages and experience levels, bowls are provided—just wear flat-soled shoes or go barefoot and bring a hat. After the game, enjoy a classic sausage sizzle while meeting new friends. No experience is necessary. For more information, contact John on 4959 2766.
Marian Bowls Club
Wednesday 11th March
World Plumbing Day Community Breakfast
7am
Kickstart your day with Tropical Coast Plumbing at a World Plumbing Day barbecue breakfast on March 11 at their Mackay office on Gordon Street. Enjoy coffee from Papa Bens Coffee Van, a sizzling breakfast, and plenty of conversation with clients, community members, and local businesses. The morning celebrates the vital role plumbing plays in community health, safety, sustainability, and economic growth, highlighting careers, water solutions, and the innovation that keeps our communities thriving.
Tropical Coast Plumbing Mackay

On March 7th and 8th, Late for Woodstock will be gracing the stage to recreate the iconic music of rock history’s most celebrated performances. The tribute act formed in May 1988 in Noosa Heads to bring back the authentic sounds of the 60s and 70s.
“We kind of bumped into each other at Noosa and decided to throw a band together”, said singer and guitarist Colin Germano.
“We wanted a name that would reflect what we wanted to play, which was older stuff. Beatles, Stones, The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Creedence, Doobie Brothers – stuff like that”.
After various hiatuses and a break during Covid, the band and back and ready for action.
“We just stick to our roots. We play the stuff that we love. Nothing more than that. We play what we love and are fortunate people still want to hear that”.
The band are no strangers to the Airlie Beach foreshore.
“We played there back in 1985 when it was the old pub. We were part of a circuit. We’d go up there, bash it out and have a great time”.
Airlie Beach remains a special place to perform.
“We just love Airlie Beach. We’ve been going there all these years. When we perform here, I like to go up early and hang around town – catch up with friends – see the islands. The pub has always been really good to us. It’s a unique place”.
Get excited for a wealth of timeless music as the tribute act are set to honour The Doors, CCR, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Neil Young, The Kinks, Santana, The Rolling Stones, Rodriguez and Bob Dylan among many others.
WHAT: Late for Woodstock, 2 Free Shows
WHEN: March 7th – 8th, 2.30-5.30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

Friday 27 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grandview Hotel: Mike Duff (from 8pm)
KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (1pm – 5pm)
Saturday 28 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Bon Jovi (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grandview Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm – 8pm)
KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Josiah (4 – 7pm)
Sunday 1 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Bon Jovi & Foreigner (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort:
KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Dan Ahri (2pm – 6pm)
Monday 2 March
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)
Tuesday 3 March
KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)
Wednesday 4 March
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)
Thursday 5 March
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
KCs: Josiah (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (1pm – 5pm)

On Sunday 22 February, a group of writers, readers and thinkers gathered at the Whitsunday Sailing Club to explore how the Writers Festival could be improved for further iterations. Being held on 13 September, the festival has seen great success in the past, and with a passionate focus group committed to planning this year’s event, the community can expect great things, including a strong spotlight on the talent and creativity that makes up the region.
Although smaller compared to larger cities, the Whitsundays has always punched above its weight when it comes to celebrating culture and creativity, and the Writers Festival is a clear sign of that.
With various prompts put to the team, including a core discussion theme of What makes literary festivals important? ideas were enthusiastically thrown around. Its evident that a current priority is to consider how the festival can be geared towards children, as with the rise of technology, it is more vital than ever that children can maintain engagement with literature.
Further matters were deliberated on and discussed such as:
In addition to the Writers Festival, the Whitsunday Literary Hearts Awards was also discussed. This festival contains a number of exciting categories – unpublished manuscript, short story (adult and under 18), book cover and curated publication – encouraging locals to put their work out there.
The festival is committed to being a leading regional literary event on the national calendar, celebrating Queensland and Australian stories whilst championing the authors who bring them to life.
This meeting represents a great start to the year, as the team will continue to discuss, plan and brainstorm ideas. These types of festivals are vital in stimulating cultural growth in the region. The region contains so many wonderful, artists, musicians, poets and general creatives and it is important to see their efforts recognised.
Writers, readers and thinkers gathered to discuss ideas ahead of this September's Writers Festival. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

Swapping hard hats for dancing shoes, Jason Mordey will vie for the winning position on stage at the upcoming Dancing With Heart competition.
As Managing Director of Anything Environmental, Jason leads a locally owned family business focused on giving back to the community while creating opportunities for people to recycle materials that would otherwise end up in landfill.
“We are a business that is all about supporting and giving back to our local community where we can, especially through creating opportunities for the general public to recycle materials and potentially make some money doing it, as well as helping the environment,” he says.
Jason began his career as a diesel mechanic before building one of the region’s largest earthmoving and demolition operations. When the Containers for Change program launched, he seized the opportunity to bring it to Mackay.
“I hope people remember me for helping create systems that make a real difference for the community and the environment,” he shares.
Now turning his focus to the dance floor, Jason promises plenty of energy.
“I don’t want to give too much away, but my dance is very full-on from start to finish and exhausting. I love the way it involves the audience with a high-energy performance, with fun and comedy thrown in,” he says.
The most challenging part? I could lie and say the backflips, lol.
What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work? My father was in the hospital for nearly two years. During that time, I saw first-hand how the Hospital Foundation do the little things to help people staying in hospital, especially long-term patients like my father. They fill in the gaps that are otherwise missed.

Dirk Neugebauer is no stranger to stepping up for the community, but stepping onto a dance floor, complete with choreography and precise timing, is an entirely new arena.
As Managing Director of Jayden Enterprises Pty Ltd, Dirk leads a well-known and established Mackay business that has consistently backed local charities, schools and events.
“Jayden Enterprises is a well-known and established Mackay business that has always supported local charities, schools and events in which I get actively involved,” he says.
Over the past three years, he has also poured his energy into Variety – the Children’s Charity Queensland Variety Bash, running two major fundraisers annually and promoting them across TV and radio.
“My passion in supporting charities such as My Hospital Foundation, Hospital Auxiliary, Chances House and Variety comes from my experience with my own mental health challenges and how important it is to me to help those that need it the most,” he shares.
“I would like to be remembered as someone who cares about the community through sharing prosperity.”
Now, as a Dancing With Heart contestant, Dirk admits rehearsals have tested him.
“It has been a bit of a struggle even though I love dancing… this has challenged me to learn a routine,” he says.
“Learning the new moves, practicing them and then getting them right is the most enjoyable.”
What have you found the most challenging so far? Getting the timing right and not jumping into my own routine.
What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work? The foundation is local, directing funds to those who need it most while supporting healthcare workers that work tirelessly with essential equipment and resources.

Bright, outgoing and always up for a laugh, Chelsea Byrne is a vibrant force in Mackay’s community scene, and chances are, you’ve seen her in action.
As a Triple M Roadie, Account Coordinator, Brand Experience Specialist, and Executive Assistant, Chelsea is at the heart of connecting the station to the community. From local businesses to sporting clubs and community events, she thrives on face-to-face interaction and sharing the stories that make the region unique.
“You’ll usually find me out and about in the community — visiting local businesses, events, sporting clubs, and bringing the station to the streets. I love being face-to-face with locals, having a chat, sharing a laugh, and helping promote what’s happening around our region,” she said.
“It’s such a social job and I’m lucky to meet so many amazing people through it.”
While she’s confident on the mic, Chelsea’s dance routine has been full of surprises.
“Most people don’t know I’m probably the clumsiest dancer in the group. I can trip over nothing and still miss a count — it’s honestly impressive… But I dance with my whole heart, even if my feet don’t always cooperate. I’d love to be remembered as the girl who gave it her all, laughed at herself, and proved you don’t have to be perfect to light up the stage,” Chelsea enthuised.
“I’ve really loved the upbeat sections with sharp, strong moves because you can just go full out and feel the music. That’s when I forget about being clumsy and just have fun with it.”
The most challenging part? Remembering the choreography while also making it look confident and natural
What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work? Knowing the impact stays right here in our local hospitals and helps people in our own community makes it incredibly meaningful, especially because healthcare touches everyone at some point in their lives.

Film lovers are invited to a special screening of award-winning French drama The Story of Souleymane at CQUniversity’s Cook Theatre next month, presented by Film & Arts Mackay Inc..
Winner of the Jury Prize, Best Actor and the FIPRESCI International Critics’ Prize in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival, as well as Best Actor and Best Sound at the European Film Awards, the 93-minute drama has become one of France’s most talked-about recent releases.
Written and directed by Boris Lojkine, the film follows Souleymane, a young food delivery cyclist navigating the frenetic streets of Paris while awaiting the outcome of his asylum application. Racing against the clock to meet delivery demands, he must also prepare for a life-changing residency interview that will determine his future. The lead performance by newcomer Abou Sangaré has been widely praised, adding emotional weight to this tense and compassionate portrait of life in the gig economy.
Described as a gripping social-realist thriller, the film has drawn comparisons to classic European cinema while resonating strongly with contemporary audiences. It contains coarse language and is rated M.
The evening will also include the Film & Arts Mackay Annual General Meeting at 7.10pm sharp, prior to the screening. Members are encouraged to attend to help form a quorum and nominate office bearers for the year ahead.
Doors open at 6.45pm for a 7.30pm start at CQUniversity Mackay, Ooralea Campus. Guests are invited to stay for snacks and wine after the screening.
Tickets and 2026 memberships are available online at www.trybooking.com/DIZNV.

Friday 27 February
Crochet and Conversation
9am
Locals are invited to a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee, and conversation. Participants can BYO crochet tools or borrow from the communal box. Beginners are welcome, and the group is perfect for crafters or anyone who enjoys connection over a coffee. During summer, sessions are inside with air-conditioning; in cooler months, enjoy the shade sails outside along the beautiful Bucasia Esplanade.
Beachfront Bar & Restaurant, Bucasia Esplanade
Kucom Theatre Happy Hour
6–7.30pm
Join Kucom Theatre for its February Happy Hour, featuring a licensed bar and casual social atmosphere. The event is open to all, offering a great chance to relax, mingle, and enjoy a drink before the weekend. It’s perfect for anyone looking for an easy-going evening with friends or meeting new faces from the local community.
1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove
Eat Street & Live Music
From 6pm
A fun evening for families and locals with free children’s activities including a gymnastics airtrack. Enjoy live music from Jamesley while sampling a variety of food and drinks available on site. The event combines entertainment, food, and community engagement, creating a lively atmosphere for all ages. Bring the family and soak up the vibrant waterfront energy.
Blue Water Quay, Mackay
Sunday 1 March
Clean Up Australia Day – Harbour Beach
7am
Pioneer Catchment Landcare invites the community to help keep Harbour Beach clean and rubbish-free. Bring sun-smart clothing, enclosed shoes, a hat, reusable water bottle, gloves or tongs, and snacks. Families, friends, and individuals are welcome to join. Participation helps protect local land and ocean habitats, and volunteers can make a real difference while enjoying time outdoors in a positive, community-focused environment.
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club
Barefoot Bowls
9–11am
Start the day with barefoot bowls at Marian Bowls Club, followed by a sausage sizzle. Bowls are provided, and no experience is necessary, making it perfect for beginners or social players. Participants are encouraged to wear flat-soled shoes or go barefoot and bring a hat for sun protection. It’s a friendly, active way to meet new people and enjoy a morning of fun and fitness.
Marian Bowls Club, Reg Smith Street
Sarina Country Music Family Afternoon
1pm
Enjoy a Sunday afternoon of live country music with the family at the Sarina Sporting & Services Club. Admission is $5, and new artists are welcome to perform with the available backing band. Bistro opens at 11.30am, and a free courtesy bus is available. The event is open to everyone, creating a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where locals can enjoy music, food, and community connection.
Sarina Sporting & Services Club, Brewers Road
Wednesday 4 March
Mackay Mums Circle
9.30am
Mackay Mums Circle offers a mid-week catch-up for mums and little ones (newborn to five years). The drop-in session is free and casual, with no agenda—just time to relax, chat, and connect while kids play. Bring a picnic rug, snacks, hats, and sun protection. Optional plates to share are welcome. Sessions run from 9.30–10.30am, but participants can stay as long as needed.
John Breen Park, North Mackay

Airlie Beach is set for a huge weekend of classic rock as the Airlie Beach Hotel hosts two massive free tribute shows celebrating the music of Foreigner and Bon Jovi.
The action begins on Saturday, 28 February, when Bon Jovi Forever – The Australian Bon Jovi Show takes to the stage from 2pm to 5.30pm. Touring internationally and renowned as one of the world’s hottest Bon Jovi tribute acts, the show delivers the ultimate experience for fans of the New Jersey rock legends.
Audiences can expect a high-energy afternoon packed with powerhouse hits and fan favourites from Bon Jovi, including “Livin’ on a Prayer”, “Always”, “Bed of Roses”, “You Give Love a Bad Name” and “It’s My Life”. The production has previously featured on national television programs such as The AFL Footy Show and Foxtel’s The Tribute Show, showcasing its authenticity and stage presence. Known for selling out venues across the country, the band promises an afternoon that will have diehard fans and casual listeners alike singing along.
The rock celebrations continue on Sunday, March 1, with a double-header event from 2pm to 5.30pm. Kicking off the afternoon from 2pm to 3.30pm is The Australian Foreigner Show, a tribute to the chart-topping sounds of Foreigner. The show captures the feel and presence of one of rock’s most successful bands, performing classics such as “I Want to Know What Love Is”, “Cold as Ice”, “Urgent”, “Feels Like the First Time”, “Waiting for a Girl Like You”, “Hot Blooded” and “Juke Box Hero”.
From 4pm to 5.30pm, the very best of Bon Jovi returns to close out the weekend in style, ensuring back-to-back anthems and a lively atmosphere.
With two afternoons of free live entertainment in the heart of town, the Airlie Beach Hotel is the place to be for locals and visitors looking to enjoy great music, waterfront views and an electric party atmosphere.
Saturday 28 February
WHAT: Bon Jovi Forever – Australian Bon Jovi Show
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: 2pm til 5:30pm
Sunday 1 March
WHAT: Double Header, Best of Bon Joni and Foreigner – Australian Bon Jovi Show and The Australian Foreigner Show
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: 2pm til 5:30pm
Photo source: Facebook


GIG GUIDE – 20th FEB
Friday 20 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Jam Hot Live – Sports Bar (8am – 11pm)
Grandview Hotel: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)
Saturday 21 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Jam Hot Live (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Mad Mariachi (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Bad Girl (1pm – 5pm)
Sunday 22 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Mad Mariachi (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30-9.30pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Noah Davis (1pm – 5pm)
KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm – 7pm)
Grandview Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Monday 23 February
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
Tuesday 24 February
KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
Wednesday 25 February
KCs: Dylan Hammond (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)
Thursday 26 February
Airlie Beach Hotel: Pluto Tango (7pm – 10pm)
KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)