The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) is moving offsite, with a performance from the Australian Army’s 1 RAR Band at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens on Friday, 2 March, 2024.

The decision to host the performance from Townsville’s Band of the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (known as 1 RAR Band) at the offsite venue was made following the closure of the MECC’s Auditorium, due to storm damage over the Christmas period.

Director Community and Client Services Janine McKay said the Defence unit’s strong sense of community was something the MECC could not pass up on.

“We have been collaborating with the band to bring music workshops to schools, and a preview performance at Caneland Central,” Ms McKay said.

“We’re fortunate to have skilled staff who are able to deliver offsite events; and hosting free, live music, with the talented 1RAR Band at Meadowlands Amphitheatre is something we’re proud to offer our community,” she said.

One RAR Band supports all three Brigade units, other Defence organisations, and the wider community. The band comprises a 10-piece ensemble (drums, trumpets, trombones and saxophones) alongside vocalists, playing contemporary music that blends modern beats with Australian classics. After success following their Sunset Vibes performance at the Winton Outback Festival in 2023, the band are excited to bring their music to Mackay.

The MECC are encouraging all ages to come along and enjoy this free, family-friendly night out.

“This will be a memorable night out. Bring some chairs or a blanket and pack a picnic. We will also have a variety of food trucks available for those looking for savoury or desserts options,” Ms McKay said.

FREE EVENT

WHAT: The MECC Presents Sunset Vibes with the 1 RAR Band

WHEN: Saturday 2 March, 6.30pm

WHERE: Meadowlands Amphitheatre, Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

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Caption:  A show-stopping performance from the Australian Army’s 1 RAR Band. Photos supplied

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Launched in 2020, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre is eager to bring back the 2024 instalment of the September Weekender, the popular event that keeps the entire family entertained.

Scheduled for the September School Holidays, this weekend extravaganza features the best of the best, from adults only evenings, musical icons, and circus performance.

Now, what’s on the agenda?

Day one will see award-winning cabaret, Briefs Factory, alongside celebrated songbird, Sahara Beck, return to the stage, following their sold-out shows.

Day two includes Australia Idol judge and iconic musician Marcia Hines to perform her album, ‘Still Shining’, plus many more of her hits.

Day three is kid-centric, including the Brats Carnival, a wild circus with fantastic music, acts of amazement and eye-popping party tricks, as part of the DBCT Kids Theatre Season.

Venue and Events Operations Manager, Jemma Carey, said the weekend is a celebration of live events, programmed to provide the ultimate weekend of live entertainment.

“We have programmed on these dates to encourage visitation to our region, three events over three days during the school holidays will provide both locals and visitors the chance to experience some of Australia’s best entertainers live in Mackay,” Ms Carey said.

“The first September Weekender took place over three-years ago, and we still get requests to bring it back. We’re excited by this announcement and the MECC team is excited to bring this flamboyant event to Mackay in September” Ms Carey said.

September Weekender events are currently on with tickets available at www.themecc.com.au

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SEPTEMBER WEEKENDER

Friday 20 September | Briefs Factory Bite Club

Saturday 21 September | Marcia Hines

Sunday 22 September | DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season Brats Carnival

Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

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SAVE THE DATE:

WHEN: September 20 – 22

WHERE: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

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Are you ready for a fun and engaging night out?

Then the Collinsville-Scottville Kindy have the perfect event for you!

Raising funds for their kindy program, you can party it up for a good cause, with musical bingo the main entertainment.

Adults only, you can be sure this will be a hoot, with tickets including the choice of a beer or wine on arrival, nibbles, and a music bingo card.

But the fun doesn’t stop there, with raffles and a lucky door prize sure to bring more laughs to the room.

Double your chances at a win and purchase more music bingo cards for only $10 a piece, and come home a winner.

Tickets are only available through pre-purchase, so contact the Collinsville-Scottville Kindy on 4785 5425 today to purchase your tickets and book your winning table.

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WHAT: Adults Only Music Bingo
WHERE: Collinsville FootyClub
WHEN: Friday, March 8, from 6pm

TICKETS: $30,sold through the Collinsville-Scottville Kindy, call 4785 5425

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The Australian Army’s 1RAR Band is heading to Bowen, as part of their Southern Community Engagement Tour, for a special one-night concert.

The 1st Battalion Royal Australian Regime, the 1RAR Band has been instrumental in encouraging community engagement with the Australian Army, through the positive and uplifting tunes of their music.

“We’re a 22-piece full time band, performing for the community with modern and atmospheric beats,” explained Band Sergeant Major, James Duquemin.

Based in Townsville, this Southern Tour has the band travelling as far south as Mackay, Yeppoon, and Clermont, with the Sunset Vibes concert.

“Sunset Vibes is an electrifying evening that blends modern beats with Aussie classics, courtesy of the sensational 1RAR Band,” James explained.

“This isn't your average concert – it's a music experience that transcends generations. Whether you're belting out the lyrics to your favourite tracks or dancing the evening away with friends, the 1RAR Band's talent will have you hooked from the first note.

“Bring your crew, set up the perfect picnic, and let the good times roll on at The Bowen Sound Shell.

This is your chance to immerse yourself in the quintessential beachside atmosphere while enjoying top-notch live music that's as cool as the ocean breeze.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said it was very exciting to have the 1RAR band coming to Bowen.

“This will be a great family event for locals and visitors, and everyone is looking forward to it.”

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WHAT: Sunset Vibes
WHERE: Bowen Sound Shell
WHEN: Thursday, February 29, from 6.30pm
TICKETS: Absolutely free!

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The revitalised Whitsundays Writers Festival is gaining momentum, with the recent announcement that acclaimed Australian crime writer Garry Disher will join the lineup of prestigious speakers at the highly anticipated event due to be held this September.

Garry Disher, author of the novels ‘Hell To Pay’ and ‘The Divine Wind’, is also a three-time winner of the Ned Kelly Award for Best Novel.

He is known for his captivating characters and engaging narratives and is eager to meet with fellow writers and readers at the 2024 Whitsunday Writers Festival.

Garry’s presence at the festival promises to be a highlight, as he shares insights into his award-winning career and engages with writers and readers alike.

Festival President Karen Jacobsen is thrilled to have the likes of Garry on the lineup.

"Fostering an exceptional roster of speakers for our regional writers festival is a testament to the literary richness of our nation,” she explained.

“We are honoured to have Australia's leading writers, including Garry Disher, grace our event.

"With over 50 novels to his name and a plethora of international and national accolades, Garry's presence adds a dynamic dimension to our festival."

"Stay tuned for ticketing details, set to be announced soon after the full program launch. Early bird enthusiasts are encouraged to register on our website to secure exclusive discounts."

This latest announcement means that Garry Disher joins forces with the 2023 Miles Franklin Award winner, Shankari Chandran, in spearheading this year’s Whitsundays Writers Festival. The festival is dedicated to showcasing the finest literary talents in regional Queensland at beautiful Airlie Beach.

After a seven-year hiatus, the festival's return marks a momentous occasion, promising an immersive celebration of literature, culture, and creativity. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Whitsundays, this event is poised to elevate the region's cultural landscape to new heights.

For further information and to subscribe for festival news and special offers visit: whitsundayswriters.com

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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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