Friday 15 December

Mackay Show Association Christmas Mega Markets

Friday Evening 5pm – 8pm

Market & food stalls, special appearance by Santa, ham raffles. |

$2 per person

Mackay Showgrounds

Friday Night Live Music

Every Friday from 5pm

Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.

Boomerang Hotel

Christmas Holiday Kids Crafts

Friday 15 December | 10am – 2pm

Join Santa’s Elves and make your very own Christmas holiday craft at Caneland

Central. No bookings required. | Free entry.

Santa’s workshop (outside Target) | Caneland Central

Saturday 16 December

Mackay Showground Markets

Every Saturday from 6am – 10am

Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.

Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.

Mackay Showgrounds

2023 Christmas Markets

This Saturday from 8am – 4pm

Mackay Basketball will be hosting its first-ever Christmas markets this December!

Free entry.

McDonalds Mackay Stadium

Falun Gong Classes

Every Saturday from 10am

Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.

You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.

Live Music Saturdays

Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm

Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.

The Kooyong Hotel

Sunday 17 December

Sunday Bingo

Every Sunday from 7pm

Come along and you could win! | Free entry.

South Leagues Club

Monday 18 December

Trivia Night

From 6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday

Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!

Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?

Round up your friends and get your geek on!

Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club

Mackay Get It Together – Better Together Housing

10 am – 11.30 am

Better Together Housing is for women over 55 who are considering their housing options for now or in the future and would like to explore more about shared housing.

Greater Whitsunday Communities | 63 Sydney Street, Mackay

Yoga For Youth

From 4.45 pm – Every Monday

Yoga Class exclusively for teens. This class is suitable for beginners through to advanced yoga students and is safe and supportive space for teens to explore the many benefits of yoga, to connect with other teens and more importantly, yourself. BYO yoga mat and water bottle.

Mackay Northern Beaches SHS | $10 Per Student

Trivia Night

From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday

There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.

Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.

Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.

Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club

Trivia Night

From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday

Don’t miss this December’s Christmas Comedy Gala, featuring Queensland’s top comedians for an 18+ night of laughter.  Join with your colleagues, friends, or anyone for a grown-up twist on the 12 Days of Christmas.

Headliner Shayne Hunter, known for his smart and hilarious comedy, leads the lineup. Host Anna Brennan and her Drag King alter ego, Bruce Hwy, bring raw and anecdotal storytelling to the stage. Kody Maverick and Max Leishman add fresh, friendly humour to the mix. Expect an unforgettable night of laughter. | Tickets available at tickets.avclive.com.au

The Metropolitan Hotel

Tuesday 19 December

Christmas Card Creation Drop-In Session

10 am - 11 am

Join us to create Christmas cards inspired by nature! This is a free drop in, family

Friendly activity, held in the Botanic Gardens Meeting Room. Suitable for kids of all ages. | Free entry

Mackay Botanic Gardens Meeting Room

Wednesday 20 December

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30 am to 10:30 am

Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00 pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $8 for members and $10 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Christmas Decoration Creation Drop-In Session

10 am – 12 noon

Create a Christmas decoration or two inspired by nature. All materials provided. Free family-friendly activity. | Free entry.

Mackay Botanic Gardens Meeting Room

Thursday 21 December

Mackay Riverside Market

Every Thursday, 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm

Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.

Bluewater Quay

Rusty Kettle Crew Christmas Raffles

6.00 pm

1/2 ham, $100 seafood voucher, loaded meat trays by Goodes Butchers Sarina.

Koumala Hotel

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Mackay Christmas Mega Markets

Mackay Showground Market

Christmas Card Creation Drop-In Session

Christmas Holiday Kids Crafts

Christmas Decoration Creation Drop-In Session

Mackay Farmers’ Market

I’ve had that song stuck in my head for a while now!

But really, Hi, it’s me, your old friend!

I’ve been living under a motherhood rock for the past 12 months, but I’ll be back on air on Star 101.9 bright and early in January.

I actually cannot believe we are already talking about January 2024!

Time is flying by.

I feel there is something about saying ‘time is flying by’ that means you’re getting older.

I would have heard my parents and grandparents say ‘time flies’ so many times over the years, yet it’s only in the last few years (clearly a sign I’m getting old) that I’ve truly understood how accurate that saying is, and how precious every day is.

I hope you were able to be present this year, enjoy the little moments, and spend as much time as possible doing things that make you smile.

But if not, I’m sorry, and good news, is there’s a new year right around the corner, so chuck 2023 in the bin and 2024 provides a clean slate to start fresh.  

Next year brings a fresh new sound to the ‘who’ you wake up with every morning, and no I’m not talking about your partner sorry! I mean when you flick on your radio there will be a new show to wake up to! I am looking forward to welcoming my new co-host to town, and you can be sure we have got so much planned to give back to anyone that listens.

My top two favourite parts of the job is to have a chat with everyone every morning and to give away as many prizes and cash as the big boss lets me!

In the meantime, from my family to yours, Merry Christmas and see you in the New Year!

Rach

The image of the man, woman and baby in the darkened stable has a powerful hold on people’s imaginations.

Why?

Maybe because so many can identify with someone huddled in darkness, turned away from the inn, apart from family. How many feel displaced, not ‘at home’ in their surroundings? How many suffer the darkness of loneliness, betrayal and rejection? How many dwell in the shadow of illness and grief? How many live, as first-time parents, with self-doubt and anxiety about the future for the family? The material world isn’t always hospitable.

But look closer at the baby: a universal symbol of hope and love.

But there’s more: a light radiating from the baby, and the light casts out darkness which has no power against the light. The light is the sign of God in a human life, re-creating lives. The light radiates not just from human love, but is divine: the eternal power of life, love and grace that seeks to fill wherever there is darkness. This light is not of this world, but it transforms this world.

At Christmas, those who have found the glory of this joy gather to give thanks for, and share, this most wonderful inner peace.  

Come and join us and, wherever you are, may you know God’s blessings of joy.

Ven. Dr Rosemary Dunn

Archdeacon of Mission and Ministry and Archdeacon of Mackay

No matter who you are, or where you’re from, you’ve probably heard “Jingle Bells” at least once. Some people love to blast carols in the car as early as November, and others can be less enthusiastic. No matter which side of the fence you sit on, Christmas carols are an iconic celebration of the season that fit perfectly alongside the tree that finds itself a staple in the homes of so many.

Christmas carols have deep roots in cultural and religious traditions. The first carol believed to have been written is nearly 1500 years old. While the nature of the music may have changed, for many the importance of the message remains the same.

One of the most prominent carols that can be heard throughout the festive season is “Silent Night”. The history behind this iconic tune is fascinating, although there are several different opinions on how the carol originated.

The song was originally composed in the early 1800s by Austrian composer Franz Xaver Gruber and the famed lyrics were written by Father Joseph Mohr, a young catholic priest. Silent Night, or as it was then known, “Stille Nacht”, was first performed in a small Austrian parish in Oberndorf on Christmas Eve in 1818. On this fateful night, the young priest brought his writings to Gruber and pleaded with him to compose a melody and guitar accompaniment for them. This was to be done with haste, as river flooding had damaged the church organ, and an alternative was needed for that evening's mass.

The mass went off without a hitch and a new carol was born. From there the acclaimed tune travelled across the globe and was declared an “intangible cultural heritage” by UNESCO in 2011.

The tradition of singing Christmas carols is a multi-faceted celebration of joy, tradition, community, and creativity. These timeless melodies connect us to the past, illuminate the religious significance of the holiday, and foster a sense of togetherness that defines the Christmas spirit.

Christmas is a time to stop work, rest awhile, and turn to God. The good news of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world, is a message of great joy for everyone: for you and for me.

This Christmas, find your local church, attend a Christmas service, hear the good news, give your heart to Jesus, and donate to a Christmas appeal.

The Journey to Bethlehem movie is showing in cinemas now. The miracle of the survival of Jesus Christ, the divine Son of God, shows us God’s determination to be with us in life’s struggles. The birth of Jesus Christ is an encouragement to worship the God who ‘became flesh and dwelt among us’ (John 1:14) and to extend a helping hand to the vulnerable people of the world.

People are dying in many war-torn parts of the world. At Christmas time in 1949, the Rev. Frank Byatt, a Methodist Minister, encouraged those gathered around his meal table to give the cost of a Christmas dinner to help those recovering from the Second World War. Each year, through the National Council of Churches, for almost 75 years since then, Christian people raise more than $1.8 million for overseas aid and development. You can give at your local church or online https://christmasbowl.actforpeace.org.au/donate.

Rev. Dr Julia Pitman

St Paul’s Uniting Church

Confidently carving out a sterling reputation in the Whitsunday wedding industry for the past decade, this year was the first time Aquava Boutique Catering embarked on an awards journey, and they started right at the top!

The highly regarded wedding caterers brought home the Gold Award in the Independent Wedding Caterers category at the Australian Bridal Industry Association (ABIA) Awards which were held in Brisbane earlier this month.

The winners are measured by reviews and ratings from over 30,000 newlyweds each year and are determined by a combination of excellence in four factors: quality of product, quality of service, attitude of staff and overall value.

Aquava Boutique Catering is owned and operated by local couple, Sophie and Todd Jordan who pride themselves on their unwavering commitment to providing high-quality culinary experiences.

“Winning the award was an incredible moment for the entire team,” said Sophie and Todd.

“The sheer joy and pride were evident, marking a significant acknowledgment of our collective efforts, dedication, and passion.

“This recognition serves as a motivational boost, reinforcing our commitment to excellence and fuelling our enthusiasm for future endeavours.”

Embracing innovation and staying ahead of culinary trends, Aquava has become a sought-after and well-respected caterer, offering a range of services for almost any celebration, from weddings through to large scale events and intimate dining experiences.

With memorable menus, meticulous attention to detail, and personalised service Sophie says every element is guided by a collaborative effort that unites the strengths and passions of their highly skilled team.

“The dedication and collaboration within our team are pivotal,” they explained.

“Each team member contributes their unique talents to ensure a cohesive and quality catering service.

“We deeply appreciate the collective effort that makes our service possible.

“Our ongoing pursuit of excellence is guided by a humble acknowledgment of our strengths and areas for growth.

“We appreciate the recognition and remain committed to delivering exceptional catering experiences.”

“Our team is a close-knit group, and each member plays a vital role in our success.

“While it's challenging to single out one individual, we would like to express gratitude to every team member for their unwavering dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence.”

Bringing the award home for both the business and broader Whitsunday Wedding Industry, the couple say they love working alongside so many other skilled industry professionals.

“The shared commitment to creating magical moments for couples is what makes the local Whitsunday wedding community so special,” shared Sophie and Todd.

“We look forward to continued collaboration, learning, and collectively raising the bar for the beautiful weddings we contribute to.”

“We would like to express our deep appreciation to our couples and clients for entrusting us with their special moments. Your feedback and support have been instrumental in shaping our services.

“Keep an eye out for upcoming updates as we strive to grow, innovate, and contribute to the dynamic events industry.”

Sophie and Todd Jordan from Aquava Boutique Catering. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

Thrilled to be recognised as a Finalist in two categories at the ABIA Awards, Louise Sugrue from Divine Weddings Whitsundays, says it was a privilege to attend the industry awards held in Brisbane earlier this month.

Coming in seventh place out of 17 hopefuls in the Decorations and Styling category and fifth place out of 11 in the Independent Wedding Consultants category, Louise says she is pleased to rank so high among peers she admires.

“To get that positive feedback and score so high when going up against some of the bigger businesses is just amazing,” she shared.

“I really appreciate my clients scoring me so highly, I’m really happy with that.”

Scoring over 99 per cent in both categories, the Divine Weddings experience and standard of service is highly respected in the industry.

Specialising in boutique wedding planning packages, Divine Weddings primarily caters for elopements, intimate weddings, Whitehaven Beach ceremonies, cruise ships and on-day coordination.

Meanwhile the décor side of the business is versatile and unique, easily adapting to the couple’s chosen style, venue and size of ceremony or reception.

"We really like to incorporate fresh flowers into our styling," said Louise.

“We find them more pleasing to the eye, more natural and they and they have the most beautiful scent – we love working with the client’s chosen flowers and can match with the chosen theming.”

Whether you are looking for the perfect wedding day décor or would like to work with a professional and friendly wedding planner, Divine Weddings Whitsundays can help make your dreams come true for that special day.

Louise Sugrue from Divine Weddings Whitsundays with friend Donna Fornasiero at the ABIA Awards in Brisbane: Photo supplied

You better ‘Take a Chance on Me’ because over these two shows, we’ll have our dancing shoes on and we’ll be dancing our way to Christmas, singing every hit from ABBA’s impressive catalogue along the way.

Coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel stage is none other than SOS, one of Australia’s best ABBA tribute artists.

Samuel Bennett acts as the ineffable Bjorn, and he brings charisma, class and pizzazz like no other.

In the role for coming on seven years, Sam knows exactly what to do and how to do it - when he is up on stage, he will be sure to get the crowd going.

“I have this deep dive passion for ABBA, and I’m thrilled to be in Airlie Beach once again, bringing the sounds of ABBA.”

“We really love coming up to Airlie Beach; it’s always a good time, with the holiday crowd on holiday time. It’s nice to have the beautiful weather and to be with people who just love the music.”

No expense is spared, with SOS bringing across each and every costume, attitude, and energy, ensuring that each and every single member of the crowd has the best time of their lives.

“You can’t have an ABBA show without the ABBA costumes!” Sam explained.

More than just a show, the performance is an experience like no other.

“Our Frida loves to jump off the stage and get involved with the crowd. She’ll roam around and pick on unsuspecting audience members. I remember a time in Airlie when she was singing verses to people, and everyone was having a great time.”

Now, what gets the crowd going?

According to Sam, it’s ‘Dancing Queen’.

“Dancing Queen’ always gets the crowd going. It’d be an absolute tragedy to do an ABBA show without ‘Dancing Queen’. There was a time we were in a mining town in Queensland, to a whole bunch of these big burly mining men, and we thought that the show would be a bust. But as soon as we started playing ‘Dancing Queen’, they started dancing like they were 17 again. It was great!”

But Sam’s favourite to perform are some of the more laid-back classics.

“I love ‘Waterloo’ and ‘Knowing Me Knowing You’, but all ABBA songs are absolute bangers. Everyone knows the words and everyone sings along.”

Sure to take on the 360-degree stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel, Sam and SOS are ready to rock us into the Christmas spirit and into our holiday breaks.

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WHAT: SOS: The Australian ABBA Tribute Show

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Friday December 22, 7pm to 10pm and Saturday December 23 from 2pm to 5.30pm

TICKETS: Absolutely Free

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An ABBA tribute like no other, SOS will have us wanting more

Be sure to put your dancing shoes on for this one

Rock us into the holiday period. Photos supplied

Sip a celebratory cocktail and enjoy the last rays of sun for 2023, with an early evening New Years Eve Sunset Soiree at Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar.

With perfectly picturesque Coral Sea views and unforgettable entertainment, this is an event you will cherish well into 2024.

Starting at 5pm, begin your New Years celebration early with free entry into Whisper Gin Bar and enjoy a range of free canapes and a complimentary glass of bubbles on arrival, speciality gin cocktail menu, and DJ Dan on the decks with the best tracks, creating the perfect party atmosphere for a sunset soiree.

With the courtesy bus ready to pick you up from home and prepped to drop you off in Airlie Beach for the 8pm family fireworks, you can also continue the celebrations at KC’s Bar and Grill with live music until 2am.

WHAT: Sunset Soiree

WHERE: Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar

WHEN: Sunday December 31, from 5pm to 8pm

TICKETS: Free entry but to secure a seat, RSVP here www.whisperginbar.com

A Retro Party

With KC’s Bar And Grill

The party doesn’t stop at KC’s Bar and Grill, with celebrations kicking off from 11.30am for all New Years Eve early birds.

The unbelievable entertainment of Retro Joe and Phoebe Jacobs will keep the good vibes going with the unique blend of talent and energy they bring to the stage, blasting the bar with great live music well into the New Year.

What a way to welcome 2024, with a great tunes and unforgettable vocals.

With refreshing cocktails and an all-encompassing menu – including the best steaks in Airlie Beach - KC’s has your New Years Eve covered.

WHAT: Retro Party

WHERE: KC’s Bar and Grill

WHEN: Sunday December 31, from 11.30am to 2am

Get ready to get in the Christmas spirit with the Proserpine Entertainment Centre putting on the perfect event for classic Christmas movie fans.

Love Actually has evolved to become the quintessential Christmas movie, with the PEC hosting their own wine and cheese night for the lovers of all things festive and charcuterie.

Embrace the warmth of this heart-warming Christmas classic that tells the eight romantic stories of Harry and Karen, Juliet, Jamie, Colin, Karl, Sam, and David, as they navigate coming of age, changing of relationships and the new year.

In this event of the year, attendees are welcome to gush about their favourite couples, cringe at the cringiest moments, hold their breath as couples share their first kiss together and sing along to their favourite songs.

Tickets cost $25 per person, and include table seating, a glass of mulled wine, or your choice of a glass of white, red, or sparkling, or juice or soft drink, plus an individual cheese platter.

WHAT: Love Actually – Wine and Cheese Night

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street Proserpine

WHEN: Wednesday December 20, from 5.30pm

TICKETS: https://proserpine.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/116400

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Celebrate the festive season with this classic Christmas film. Image supplied

Tina Unleashed

Celebrate the enigmatic Tina Turner, the Queen of Rock and Roll, with her standout vocal, unforgettable charisma, and stunning performance at this one-of-a-kind experience.

Tina Unleashed stands as a testament to her legacy, of the unstoppable powerhouse that Tina Turner was.

And why not spend the show the Tina way, with VIP tickets, which include a bottle of red, white or sparkling wine, or a carafe of juice or soft drink, and a trio of dips, suitable for two people.

WHAT: Tina Unleashed

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street Proserpine

WHEN: Sunday December 17, from 7pm

TICKETS: https://proserpine.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/116330

Hot off its sold out 2023 UK Tour, ‘A Taste of Ireland―The Irish Music & Dance Sensation’ returns with a performance that is ‘Celtic―for this decade’. Laugh, cry and jig into the night with a show that has entertained thousands, as A Taste of Ireland returns to Mackay for the first time in 3 years.

Having performed over 300 shows since 2019, ‘A Taste of Ireland’ has merged cultural traditions, modern flair, and craic galore to deliver a performance that has brought the house down night after night. This season, join an acclaimed cast of champion Irish dancers, dazzling musicians, and a contemporary vocalist, as they blend Irish charm with mind-blowing talents to present an unforgettable night of entertainment.

Featuring revamped classics like ‘Danny Boy’ and ‘Tell Me Ma’, the show’s energetic blend of melodic folk music mash-ups, live jaw-dropping acapella tap battles, and heart-warming emotion, transports you through the story of Ireland’s tumultuous history - complemented by stunning production and lighting.

Starring dancers from Lord of the Dance alongside a treasure trove of Irish Dancing Champions, ’A Taste of Ireland’ merges international Irish dance stars with the very best talent in the nation to deliver intricate choreography that is 100% live.

With over one hundred and fifty 5-star Facebook reviews, ‘A Taste of Ireland’ is exactly what it promises: a taste of everything you love about Ireland with a generous helping of more!

Don’t miss your chance to see one of the world’s most prominent Irish dance shows before it takes off around the globe once again! ‘A Taste of Ireland’ returns in 2024, and it’s truly ‘Celtic―for this decade’.

What: A Taste of Ireland

When: 22 June, 2024. 7:30pm

Where: MECC

Tickets: themecc.com.au

Friday 8 December

Churches Together Christmas Lunch

From 12pm to 2pm

All are invited to attend, with Mayor Greg Williamson featuring the launch of the Christmas Bowl Appeal of the National Council of Churches in Australia.

Discussion on the issues the churches are facing especially at Christmas, and the launch of an appeal for a NAYBA social and economic impact survey and report. | $28 per person, kids under 12 eat free!

Bookings essential by 12pm, 1st December at www.trybooking.com/CNDFF

St Paul’s Uniting Church, Macalister Street

Summer Sounds Vol. 1

From 7pm

Get ready to kick off your summer with a bang at the most exciting music event of the season, “Summer Sounds”! A stellar lineup including Systemic Machine, Inside Lane, Viper Syndicate and Giant Palms are ready to drop an incredible night of music to create a night to remember. | Get your tickets at trybooking.com

Arcadia Bar

Friday Night Live Music

Every Friday from 5pm

Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.

Boomerang Hotel

DJ Tikelz

From 9pm

Reggae | R&B | Old School | Dancehall | Island Jamz

If that’s your vibe then this night with special guest DJ TIKELZ is for you! | Ticket available at the door.

The Rabbit Hole

Saturday 9 December

Mackay Showground Markets

Every Saturday from 6am – 10am

Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.

Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.

Mackay Showgrounds

Special Olympics Mackay Fire Multi Sport Event

Saturday and Sunday from 8:30am

Special Olympics Mackay Fire invites Special Olympics athletes and those athletes with an intellectual disability to have a go at 3on3 basketball, table tennis, bocce and ten pin bowling.

Lock it in your calendar! | Tickets available online.

187 Borgs Rd, Alligator Creek

Falun Gong Classes

Every Saturday from 10am

Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.

You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.

Live Music Saturdays

Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm

Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.

The Kooyong Hotel

Sunday 10 December

Troppo Markets

7.30am to 11.30am

Monthly Event, held on the second Sunday of each month

Mackay’s Troppo Treasure Markets will keep you coming back with a never-ending variety of items for sale and plenty of entertainment and amusements too.

It’s more than just shopping… it turns your Sunday into a fun day.

Come and be a part of this major community event!

Mount Pleasant

The Memorial Swimming Centre Is Turning 60!

Sunday from 11am to 4pm

Jumping castle, merry-go-round and rock climbing wall, as well as a vintage car display, rock and roll dancers and live entertainment from The Two Māori’s. | Free entry.

Milton St, Mackay

Sunday Bingo

Every Sunday from 7pm

Come along and you could win! | Free entry.

South Leagues Club

Monday 11 December

Trivia Night

From 6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday

Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!

Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?

Round up your friends and get your geek on!

Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club

Trivia Night

From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday

There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.

Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.

Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.

Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club

Tuesday 12 December

Trivia Night

From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday

Don’t miss this December’s Christmas Comedy Gala, featuring Queensland’s top comedians for an 18+ night of laughter.  Join with your colleagues, friends, or anyone for a grown-up twist on the 12 Days of Christmas.

Headliner Shayne Hunter, known for his smart and hilarious comedy, leads the lineup. Host Anna Brennan and her Drag King alter ego, Bruce Hwy, bring raw and anecdotal storytelling to the stage. Kody Maverick and Max Leishman add fresh, friendly humour to the mix. Expect an unforgettable night of laughter. | Tickets available at tickets.avclive.com.au

The Metropolitan Hotel

Wednesday 13 December

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $8 for members and $10 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 14 December

Mackay Riverside Market

Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.

Bluewater Quay

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Summer Sounds @ Arcadia Bar

DJ Tikelz @ The Rabbit Hole

Special Olympics Multisport Event

Troppo Markets

Mackay Farmers Market

The Memorial Swimming Centre

The Mackay Bowling Club was the hub for a festive luncheon on 30th November, with 26 residents and carers from BlueCare Mackay Homefield Aged Care Facility attending the club to enjoy a Christmas lunch.

The annual event usually takes place at a local hotel, but this year, no bus was available for transport.

Organisers Mike Irving, John Jorgensen and Brad Robertson banded together to offer the group a suitable place to enjoy their festivities, which is right next door to their living quarters!

A delicious meal and a joyous occasion for all involved. This is the first year this option has been available, and the organisers hope to be able to continue it for Christmas in 2024.

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Organisers John Jorgensen (left) and Brad Robertson

Twenty-six residents and carers enjoyed a delicious Christmas meal

Photo credit: Sinead Porter

The team from Artspace Mackay will call the Dudley Denny City Library home over the holiday season, as the gallery undergoes critical facility maintenance works.

The team of curators will set up in the quiet space of the library, allowing them to deliver some fascinating public programs and work on the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection.

Artspace Mackay closed on Monday, December 4, and is anticipated to re-open early May 2024.

This closure will extend to both the gallery and Foodspace Café, with Foodspace relocating to the MECC during the closure period to offer takeaway service only.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Artspace Mackay was a AAA-rated, international standard gallery space that had just celebrated its 20th birthday.

“We need to ensure our regional gallery can maintain that rating and international standard, so we can continue to attract and secure high-profile exhibitions,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Building improvement works will focus on ensuring the internal cooling systems are renewed and in peak condition,” he said.

Artspace Mackay director Tracey Heathwood said during the closure the team were taking the opportunity to deliver their regular programming out in the community.

“We are investigating some alternative venues across the region, especially in rural localities,” Ms Heathwood said.

“The BMA Kidspace, Conversations with Art, Kids Art Club, Art and Memory and Artists’ Book of the Month programs will continue to run and we will update the details and locations of these on our website and social media as soon as possible.”

For more information on the upgrades, public programs or to view the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection online, head to artspacemackay.com.au

Mackay’s City Centre Offers A Treasure Trove Of Christmas Treats

Mackay Farmers Market

A weekly operator at Mackay Farmer’s Market is Venton’s Tropical Blooms, who offer a comprehensive range of heliconias, gingers and tropical foliage to beautify your home or gift on special occasions. Venton’s have an array of banana varieties, including Cavendish, Ducasse and Dwarf Ducasse.

Paw paws, papayas, passionfruit, black sapotes, carambolas, star apples, mangoes, lychees, limes and lemons are also seasonally available, as well as tropical plums, persimmons and a wide variety of avocado trees.

Mackay Music

Mackay Music have a range of hot deals this Christmas for all music enthusiasts, including the ever popular Fender Pack. This deal features the Squier Sonic Stratocaster, Squier Frontman 10 watt amp, along with accessories like a padded gig bag, 3 metre cable, strap, and picks priced at $529.

You can also find a range of beautiful music-inspired jewellery and accessories, a perfect gift or stocking stuffer leading into the festive season!

The Rug Gallery

The Rug Gallery proudly stocks a wide selection of rugs, cushions and hides made from top quality leather, supplied by NSW Leather Co. All materials are hypoallergenic, making this the best option for cowhide rugs in Australia.

The Rug Gallery source a range of luxurious cowhide, Mongolian sheepskin, goatskin and reindeer skin rugs in a variety of patterns and colour palettes that are sure to make a bold statement in your home.

Let The Children Play Toyshop

Let the Children Play Toyshop don’t only cater to the kids. The storefront stocks a dedicated array of adult board games featuring categories of strategy, logic, spelling, trivia, party and card games.

Explore vintage classics such as Axis and Allies, Sequence and Triominos, as well as modern fan-favourites including Dorfromantik, Azul and Memory Maze.

The storefront also offers deluxe wooden chess sets, bingo roller cages, poker cards and shufflers. Explore The Games Collection catalogue in-store for hot deals in the countdown to Christmas!

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Venton’s Tropical Blooms stall at the Mackay Farmers Market

The Fender Pack deal is one you don’t want to miss at Mackay Music

Explore the beauty of hide rugs with The Rug Gallery

Find an extensive collection for adults and children at Let the Children Play Toyshop

Photo credit: Sinead Porter