The Great Barrier Reef Art Exhibit has been confirmed to return in 2024, taking centre stage at the refurbished Whitsunday Sailing Club.

Scheduled for the first week of August, the exhibition will showcase a curated selection of over 70 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs, chosen by a panel of judges.

The special guest judge, Lauren Turton the Curator of Artspace Mackay, will have the honour of selecting the winning artworks, at the Opening Night on August 1.

Margie Murphy, Chairperson of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, expressed her delight at the addition of the Exhibition to the Festival. 

“The 2023 exhibition was a fantastic addition to the festival program, enhancing the artistic dimension of the event and attracting new visitors, and we can’t wait to see the new entries this year!” Ms Murphy said.

Following on from the theme of 2023’s exhibition, the theme of ‘Whitsunday Wonders: Above and Below the Surface’ has artists exploring the dual realms of the region.

Numerous art prizes await, notably the inaugural 'Cathy Knezevic Local Artist Award’, generously supported by the Whitsundays Arts Festival. 

“This prestigious recognition honours Cathy's foundational role in establishing the Whitsundays Arts Festival and her substantial contributions to the local arts community," commented Jess Begun, President of WAF. 

More awards are set to be announced, and with entries open from April 1, artists are encouraged to pick up their tools and get started.

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Guests visiting the 2023 exhibition. Photo supplied

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For Ämi Andrews, falling into a fabulous career in the kitchen was a no brainer, a move that she made with calculated decision and passion, always valuing the art of cooking and enjoying the vibrant cuisine-fuelled environment.

Having called Airlie Beach home for over four years now, Ämi initially ventured to Australia from London close to 10 years ago, travelling up the east coast before settling for a short period of time.

“When I left the UK, I knew being a chef would be great, because I can cook anywhere, and everywhere is always looking for more chefs,” Ämi explained.

Having worked in a myriad of establishments over the course of her travels, the Reef Gateway has allowed Ami’s artistic traits to flair, with her stepping into the Head Chef role soon after joining the team.

“I was initially the Sous Chef, but I was promoted quickly,” she said.

With a team of 10 chefs in her kitchen, Ämi is quick to make the team transition into a tight-knit family.

With a menu that she is proud of, Ämi loves getting behind the grill, searing up a gorgeous fillet of steak or a piece of salmon.

“We have these beautiful, marbled scotch fillets, and our salmon is served with smooth butter sauce with this crispy skin,” Ämi explained.

Come on down to the Reef Gateway and experience some of the best family-friendly dining in the Whitsundays.

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The barramundi fishing competition of the year is back, with the organisers Whitsunday Game Fish Club excited to take to the lake.

Based at Camp Kanga, the weekend starts with a briefing and registration at Camp Kanga on Friday March 22, from 7pm, for those wishing to get in on the action.

Nomination for the Barra Bash is free and prizes will be presented at the conclusion of the weekend, from 1pm, with photo on a brag mat, including the date, of the longest Barra.  Anglers can fish the lake, any time after the Briefing from a boat or the lake shoreline until noon on Sunday, 24 March. 

As well as chasing monster Barra, there will be a social tennis ball games of cricket on Saturday afternoon and tales told around the campfire with a marsh mellow or two at night.

For more details and accommodation bookings at Camp Kanga, call Bob Spees on 0417 115 855 to be part of this fun weekend.

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WHAT: Barra Bash
WHERE: Lake Proserpine
WHEN: Friday to Sunday, March 22 to 24

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With a backdrop of the Coral Sea, on the lush grass of the Coral Sea Marina, the annual Whitsunday Cruisin Car Club Show and Shine is back for another year.

The event welcomes a diverse range of classic and unique cars and bikes, with everyone invited to get their vehicle in on the fun.

“We hope to have more local entrants and as always welcome those car and bike enthusiasts displaying their own pride and joy,” Club Secretary Kerri Southee explained.

“Cars and bikes of all ages, makes and models are welcome and encouraged to join in.”

The Club is also excited with the return of the Kids Show and Shine and wish to encourage all youngsters to get involved.

“So kids, start getting your favourite car, scooter or bike ready and go in the event with the chance to win some amazing prizes,” said Kerri.

The event will also include the Rocker Cover Racing, fantastic cars on display, and various food and drink vendors available all day.

“All this is possible thanks to the amazing team and Coral Sea Marina and Resort, without whom we could not have this family fun day event for the whole community and our local sponsors,” Kerri explained.

With more details to be announced, car enthusiast better start polishing their pride and joy!

WHAT: Whitsunday Cruisin Car Club: Car Show and Shine
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Gardens, Shingley Beach Drive
WHEN: Saturday, May 25

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Back by popular demand, the ‘Sugar Bush Shindig’, brought to you by the organisers of the Cut Out Party, is counting down the days to its next annual event which is due to be held at the Proserpine Showgrounds next month.

A celebration of our vibrant sugar industry, the family-friendly community party is a time to honour the history of our region, thank the hard-working teams that keep the industry going and also bring everyone together.

This year all proceeds will go to the Royal Flying Doctor Service Queensland Section, and the popular charity auction will once again go a long way to boosting fundraising efforts.

“This service is vital to a regional community such as ours and many people have been touched by their services over the years,” said Amanda Hadlow from the Cut Out Party Committee.

Items to be auctioned on the night include a signed Cowboys jersey (donated by Filby's motors, Proserpine), A firepit (built by Strathdickie engineering), a cattle rail (donated by Infrabuild, Mackay), some Crocodile Safari family passes, a family photo shoot with Sue Considine, a socket set and LED head torch (donated by Canegrowers) and various accommodation around the Whitsundays.

The Sugar Bush Shindig is a family event and everyone is invited to come along and celebrate what makes the industry and region special. 

During the event, the RFDS have also arranged for their flight simulator to be present and attendees will get the opportunity to give it a go.

Last year this event raised $38,000 which was donated to the RACQ CQ Rescue Service and organisers are hopeful to reach a similar target once again.

Tickets include a BBQ dinner, drinks and entertainment.

They are now on sale from Whitsunday Tickets, with adults $80 and children aged 6-17 $15 and under 6 are free.

WHAT: Sugar Bush Shindig

WHERE: Proserpine Showgrounds

WHEN: Saturday 9th March from 5pm

TICKETS: Whitsunday Tickets

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Caption: Last year’s Cut Out Party was a huge success, and the Sugar Brush Shindig is anticipated to be the same again this year. Photo supplied

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Avid writers and aspiring children’s authors from across the region are invited to Bowen Library tomorrow where they will experience an opportunity to connect with other like-minded people and learn about the ever-growing publishing industry for children’s books.

Whitsunday Creative Writers and Illustrators (WCBWI) group will host a free event, taking place at 9:30 am, on the 24th of February, titled "Publishing Houses vs. Self-Publishing.”

WCBWI President, Dr Sofia Fortunato, a local writer and illustrator of environmental children's books, will highlight the significance of understanding the nuances between traditional publishing and self-publishing in today's literary world.

“I will emphasise the rigorous process involved in traditional publishing, from manuscript submission to editorial, refinement, illustration process and eventual distribution, underscoring the invaluable role of publishing houses in shaping literary works,” said Sofia Fortunato.

Drawing inspiration from her journey, Dr. Fortunato will also illuminate the landscape for self-publishing, as well as highlight the empowering journey, from controlling the publication timeline to retaining higher royalty rates as she showcases how to maintain creative control over every aspect of the book’s production.

“Attendees will have the opportunity to exchange perspectives, and there will be an open discussion about the advantages and challenges inherent in both traditional and self-publishing routes," Dr Fortunato said.

Topics will range from editorial support and marketing strategies to royalty structures and distribution channels, offering aspiring authors invaluable insights into making informed decisions about their publishing journeys.

All material will be provided for the sessions and bookings are essential. For more information please contact the Bowen Library on 4761 3670.

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WHAT: Publishing Houses vs. Self-Publishing Workshop

WHERE: Bowen Library

WHEN: Saturday 24th February, 9.30am

Caption: WCBWI 2023 Proserpine meeting

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Coral Sea Academy offers an extensive range of events, aimed at locals and visitors alike, discussing topics that are meaningful to the Whitsundays, and to inspire the community to do more.

The Coral Sea Academy focuses on providing interactive events to consciously connect people to not only boating, but the environment and themselves, leaving them feeling inspired and empowered.

Embark on a journey that inspires you to become a part of something bigger, to make the change and be the change.

The following activities present to you that opportunity;

ART CLASS

WEDNESDAY 21 FEB | 9am - 12pm
Unleash your inner creativity. Capture moments of joy from your day. Using the materials provided you will be able to create a colourful picture of the things that make you smile.

CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY

SUNDAY 3 MARCH | 8.30 - 10.30am
Family friendly event starting at Coral Sea Marina. Spend the morning collecting any litter you can find on land or sea. All litter will be sorted and the data will be collected for the Australian Marine Debris Initiative.

WOMEN IN BOATING

FRIDAY 8 MARCH | 2 - 3.30pm
Join us on International Women's Day for a celebration of the resilience of women. Hosted by Author and Resilience Coach Natalie Stockdale, this empowering session provides tools to navigate life's challenges. 

2nd ART CLASS

WEDNESDAY 20 MARCH | 9am - 12pm
If you can’t make the first art class… come along to this one!

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Click for full size pic

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Introducing KC’s Bourbon Bar, exclusive and enigmatic and perfect for the locals and visitors. With a slight restructure to keep locals on their toes, this imaginative Bourbon Bar will take front and centre stage of KC’s Bar and Grill restaurant, in the encompassing warmth of the main dining room.

The only bourbon bar in the Whitsundays, KC’s is taking Airlie Beach by storm, adding a layer of rich and aromatic flavours to the KC’s menu.

And the grand opening will be a sight to behold, with the team of KC’s ready to mark the night with the scent of bourbon.

Troy Fuller, Head Chef of KC’s Bar and Grill, has a specially curated menu for opening night, utilising the secret ingredient of bourbon in every aspect he can.

“We’ve tried to incorporate bourbon into our cooking as much as possible,” he explained.

“We’ve got a starter of slow cooked bourbon brisket, with a choice of chimichurri.

“For mains, we have two options. One is a 12-hour bourbon marinated rib fillet, with chip and salad and potatoes and vegetables,” Troy said.

“The second option is bourbon glazed pork ribs, with crispy apple slaw and chips.”

Satisfying your taste buds is easy at KC’s, with Troy carefully concocting the best blend of bourbon delicacies, of the sweetness of a cool bourbon steak, and the smooth finish of a bourbon on the rocks.

With 80 carefully hand selected bourbon varieties gathered from across the globe, the team of KC’s Bar and Grill are ensuring an oaky, beautifully charred flavour for locals and visitors alike to tantalise their tastebuds.

And don’t miss the cocktail specials that are setting the night alight, with rich flavours and perfectly paired with the exquisite menu, all specially crafted by special guest, cocktail connoisseur Blair Frew.

“We will have a great mix of the classic bourbon cocktails on the menu,” he explained.

“Plus a few signature originals that I have worked on just for KC’s.

“And don’t miss our fun modern twists on some old school classic cocktails, which are sure to entice everyone.”

This official opening is not to be missed.

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WHAT: Official Opening: KC’s New Bourbon Bar
WHERE: KC’s Bar and Grill
WHEN: Wednesday February 21

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Up-and-coming musician Tiffany Grace has returned from renowned Tamworth Country Music Festival Country Music Academy, extending and progressing her own skills as a solo musician, songwriting and performing.

Having launched onto the stage in recent years, Tiffany has seen great success, from winning the Young Whitsunday’s Got Talent in 2022, to performing alongside other musicians at the 2023 Whitsunday Songwriter’s Festival and being a headliner for the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

Tiffany’s acceptance at the Country Music Academy held in Tamworth in January is a testament to her hard work and dedication to her craft.

“It was absolutely amazing,” Tiffany explained.

Staying in Tamworth for the 14-day Academy, Tiffany lived every aspect of country music life, completing workshops, practicing her playing, and collaborating on her songwriting.

“We even had a songwriting workshop with Casey Chambers,” Tiffany explained.

“We were having so much fun that the time just flew by.”

“I found it so great to spend time with other musicians, where we could all relate to each other and help each other,” she explained.

“Our passions are all so similar, so now we are all connected, and we can always ring one another up and get a hand.”

Tiffany believes that attending the Academy in 2024 was perfectly timed with her skill and technical development, with her coming home with newfound confidence and energy that is translating to exciting new music and projects.

Having recently released her fifth single, entitled ‘Never Really Mine’, Tiffany continues to reflect on youth, of unrequited love, and her music is reminiscent of a longing love.

“I always have big plans for 2024 and looking forward to releasing new music and sharing my music.

“The Academy has allowed me to expand my skill set, and my music is going off in a bit of a different direction, a few mixed styles.”

Listen to Tiffany’s newest track ‘Never Really Mine’ and her other music at https://www.tiffanygracemusic.com.au/

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1. Tiffany Grace on stage with other Academy participants

2 and 3. Tiffany Grace’s solo career setting new sites in 2024. Photos supplied

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This is an explosive mix that tastes so sweet with the delectable flavours of a margarita, and The Mad Mariachi Band which are sure to bring the heat!

Created in the heart of tropical Queensland, and intensely packed with the flair and beats of traditional Mexican Mariachi music, this show offers more than a dash of contemporary rhythms.

From the creative imagination of Nelson Mansilla, The Mad Mariachi Band is best described as a “spaghetti-western Mexican music”.

“We’re non-traditional,” Nelson explained.

“We have a mixture of Mexican feel with eclectic beats.”

Traditionally a 16-person band, The Mad Mariachi Band tilts Mexican music on its head, introducing a trumpet, violin and guitar which explode the beats and get the crowd moving.

“Once we’re on stage, we read the audience and make up the show from there,” Nelson explained.

“On the spot, we decide what energy the audience is giving, if they want more traditional Mexican music, but we can also perform popular contemporary music with Mexican twists.”

Sure to be a hit in Airlie Beach, with our beachy relaxed energy, The Mad Mariachi Band are bringing their best for World Margarita Day, with surprises galore up their sleeve.

“Airlie Beach, get ready!”

Visit the Airlie Beach Hotel on Thursday, and get your FREE Sombrero, El Jimador Sunglasses and Mexican Moustaches!

WHAT: WORLD MARGARITA DAY: The Mad Mariachi Band
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Thursday, February 22, from 6.30pm to 9.30pm

WHAT: The Mad Mariachi Band
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Friday, February 23, from 7pm to 10pm

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Soul Divas, Belt Out The Beats!

With a career spanning numerous years and various unbelievable professional opportunities, including being lead vocals on Dancing With the Stars, and being a guest judge on Channel 7’s All Together Now, Sarah C is a powerhouse of prowess.

With an incredible range, Sarah C is a performer not to miss, and she is bringing her brand new performance, Soul Divas, to the Airlie Beach Hotel stage.

Brand new for Airlie Beach, Soul Divas sees Sarah C take on some of the greatest voices of this century, from Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Amy Winehouse, Adele and so many more.

With a soulful voice and powerful stage presence, Sarah C and her Soul Divas production is not the show to miss.

WHAT: Soul Divas
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, February 24 and Sunday, February 25, 2pm to 5.30pm

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“Odd Couples – A Season of One Act Comedies”

Presented By Kucom Theatre

Review by Vicky Bobeldyk

Last week, Vicky reviewed The Extraordinary Revelations of Orca the Goldfish by David Tristram. This week, we explore the remaining two plays in Kucom’s three-play comedy act, Odd Couples.

Call Centre Call by Bruce Olive

Directed by James Hunter

Frustration we can all relate to is the focus of the second play on the bill, in which Henry McThistle played by Michael Brennan experiences several automated voices when on phone calls. Set in the time of flip-phones and terrible dial-up, Henry just needs to ‘talk to a real human’ about his intermittent broadband. What he receives is a never-ending stream of selections he must make on his phone.

Brennan’s third play with Kucom sees him much more at ease on the stage, his delivery is more natural as he connects, as we all can, with Henry’s mounting frustration. Two newcomers play the Voices – Jaki Pianta and Rebecca Williams. Pianta has some complex repetition which can become monotonous, but she delivers them with superb comic timing. Williams’ role is a little more complex as her role has two different versions in another case of fantasy versus reality. Which version will Henry choose?

What’s For Pudding? By David Tristram

Directed by Bronwyn Grannall

When the question is asked ‘What’s for pudding?’ frustrated Mary played by Pia Larsen explodes on her dull, accountant husband, Jack (James Hunter) of how bored she is, how boring their lives are and that it in no way involves dessert of any kind, let alone pudding. They are interrupted by the unexpected arrival of couple Maureen (Tessa King) and her husband Ted (John Irvine) and later, the hopeless Dennis (Andrew Deguara) who just wants to order some pants from Mary’s catalogue.

Plying themselves with far too much whiskey, the cold reality of the state of both couples’ relationships and the reason behind Mary’s mood are revealed.

Larsen as ever, delivers a humorous, well-rounded, natural and relatable character as she holds the narrative together. Hunter relaxes along with his character to produce some beautiful and funny moments. Irvine and King, utilise their combined vast experience to create endearing characters but it is Deguara who once again steals the show with his superb comic timing. In a similar role to that he played in ‘The Vicar of Dibley’, Deguara maintains his focus then whips out his punchlines with joyous, thigh-slapping precision.

In all, wonderful, light-hearted evening (or matinee if that suits you better) of fun and laughter thanks to the folks at Kucom Theatre.‍

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Remaining sessions at Kucom Theatre:

Thurs - Sat 8-10 Feb at 7:30pm

Duration: 2 hours plus 2 x 20 min intervals

Contains adult content

Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/odd-couples-a-season-of-one-act-plays

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James Hunter and Jack and Pia Larsen as Mary in ‘What’s for Pudding?’

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The Soroptimists of Mackay are inviting the community to their ‘Celebrating the Connections of Community’ display, at the Jubilee Community Centre Foyer, open until the end of February.

The Soroptimists of Mackay is a group focusing on bettering women's rights, issues affecting women and girls, and creating equality for everyone, and the Mackay group concentrates on assisting vulnerable individuals in the community anyway they can.

The Mackay of the Soroptimists were established in 1976, and are an integral group to Mackay, supporting and raising funds for key Mackay organisations and services.

The group acts to advocate for women, one of their key services includes J’s Wardrobe, at the Mackay Base Hospital, which equips patients and individuals with clothing, providing them with dignity of wearing clean and supportable clothing.

Ways the community can help the Mackay Soroptimists:

   • J’s Wardrobe is always accepting casual clothing that does not have drawstring closures or belts. This is required so that the clothing can easily be put on by patients who have arrived at hospital in an emergency situation.

   • Clothing donated that is not appropriate for the hospital, the Soroptimists host pre-loved clothing stalls, which fund the purchase of new underwear.

   • Their Bags for Dignity Program consistently requires brand new personal toiletry items, including sanitary pads and tampons, shampoo and conditioner, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, soap and container, hairbrush, lip balm, face wipes, socks, water bottles, shopping bags, and backpacks.

   • Donation of pencils and pencil cases for their Smith Family Mackay.

   • Any other preloved or new materials that are not appropriate for other programmes are contributed for their Bags for Change Project, with St Vincent’s de Paul Support Service.

For those wishing to hear more about the Soroptimists of Mackay, or to donate, contact the Soroptimists on simackay@siswp.org or ring 0431 707 010.

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Whether your child dreams of a professional dance career or simply wants to get active and make friends, Dance Express has the perfect class! Here your child can find a safe space where they are free to express themselves, build friendships and set the stage for a lifetime of creativity and confidence.

From our Award-Winning Ready Set Dance Program for Preschoolers, our V.I.Prep class exclusive to Preppies and our extensive School Aged Program, we can help meet your child’s unique needs, personality and ability. We offer a full range of classes including: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Singing and Cheer.

Through their Ready Set Dance Program, Dance Express has become the go-to studio for over 120 of Mackay’s Preschoolers.

“We are so proud of our Preschool Programs and love the Confidence, Coordination and Creativity it cultivates in our Preschoolers from Walking Age to 5yrs. As a Premium Partner studio, we offer the full range of classes including: Dance, Ballet, Acro & Move which is a class designed for Toddlers and their Parents!” Karen Bishop, Director of Dance Express explains.

“We understand the busy timetables that families juggle and want dance to be a stress-free activity! From one 45-minute class a week to elite training, we have a class and time to suit all families.

“2024 is certainly the perfect year to get into dance! We have huge plans for our 20th Concert and can’t wait to celebrate with you all,” Karen says.  

After 20 years in the biz, Dance Express continues to be a home away from home for so many dancers and is proud to be a safe and stable third place for the young people of Mackay.

Dance Express will be in full force at the upcoming Mackay Sports Expo, so come and say hello to our friendly DE Team and get your child moving in 2024!

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Fun and smiles at Dance Express Mackay / Photo Credit: Dance Express (Facebook)

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