A parade of 36 Postie bike riders have zoomed off on a week-long adventure, starting from Mackay and journeying through Eungella Dam, Lake Elphinstone, Lake Maraboon, Cania Dam, Lake Awoonga, and Lake Monduran, before making their way back to Mackay.
The endurance ride is all for a good cause with the group of riders raising vital funds for regional families facing childhood cancer.  
The Postie Bike Safari now in its 11th year will cover over 2,000kms with riders running raffles and seeking donations along the way whilst spreading awareness about Childhood Cancer Support.
Childhood Cancer Support provides free accommodation and support services for regional families who must travel to Brisbane for long-term life-saving cancer treatment.  
So far, the group has raised over $78,000 for the charity.
Childhood Cancer Support Committee Member Bert Pulman says he is proud to raise funds for such an important charity.
“Having relied on Childhood Cancer Support’s services for my own family during my son’s treatment in Brisbane, I know first-hand how important this charity is for regional families.
‘’It’s an incredibly emotional and difficult time when you’re told that your child has cancer.
“The logistics of travelling to Brisbane for long-term treatment is an added stress and burden that you just don’t have the capacity to deal with at that time,’’ Mr Pulman said.
‘’I’m very grateful to the riders and everyone who has donated.
“All the money raised in this year’s safari will go towards a new accommodation village with a further 15 units for regional families, adding an additional 5,000 nights of free accommodation each year.
‘’We have a great team of riders and support members who enjoy the week-long adventure,” he remarked.
To find out more about Childhood Cancer Support, or to donate directly online, visit ccs.org.au

Photos of their trip from Mackay to Moranbah. Photo source: Postie Bike Safari (Facebook).

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Three face painters, two glitter tattoo artists, three jumping castles, roaming entertainment from Sensory Circus, a petting zoo and a hair braider – now that’s a recipe for a party in a park!

Party in the Park, which celebrates and raises awareness of Child Protection Week each year, will be held from 9am to 11.30am in John Breen Park, Malcomson Street, North Mackay, on Wednesday, September 4.

Mayor Greg Williamson said families could connect with playgroups and children’s service providers in a fun and relaxed environment with stacks of free entertainment and activities.

“This is a free morning that highlights the tremendous children’s services and organisations Mackay has to offer for children aged up to six,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Dozens of service providers have stalls at the event and they offer fun, interactive activities and displays.

“It makes for a family-friendly morning out and is a great way for young families to network, socialise and find out what support is available to them.

“I’d encourage everyone with young children, including carers and grandparents, to bring them along, get their faces painted, enjoy the free entertainment and have some fun.”

Mackay Family Support Alliance member Christie Pearson from The Neighbourhood Hub said it was important to promote Child Protection Week.

“The theme of Child Protection Week, which runs from September 1 to 7, is ‘protecting children is everybody’s business’,” Ms Pearson said.

“Events like this are an opportunity to promote the value of children and highlight services and networks that support parents through what can be a very stressful time of life,” she said.

“There’s an old saying that raising a child takes a village, and events like this are a great way for new parents to make connections and find networks that become that village.”

For more information on the event, follow Party in the Park on Facebook.

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More than 300 participants revved up their themed cars for a week-long adventure to raise an astounding $1.5 million for children in need.

The 32nd Variety Victoria Bash officially hit the gas on August 16, shifting into high gear for an unforgettable adventure, kicking off in Swan Hill, Victoria, the convoy then travelled through New South Wales, following a pit stop at the sunshine state of Mackay before concluding their joy ride in Airlie Beach last Saturday on August 24th.

Along the way, they delivered over $100,000 in vital grants to schools and regional communities, directly benefiting children and families in these areas. In addition to the grants, the Bash also injected over $100,000 into each local town they stopped in for fuel, snacks, meals, and accommodation.

Mandy Burns, CEO of Variety Victoria, expressed her excitement and said that, “This event not only brings together a vibrant community of supporters but also makes a tangible difference in the lives of children across the country.”

Scott Watson, Motoring Events Manager has been involved in the variety bash for three years and said that the smiles on children’s faces is what drives him, and others, to keep going.

“We granted a couple of thousand dollars to a kindergarten and the manager was just in tears because it makes such a difference to them, being able to buy resources and things that the kids need and that’s why you do it… that’s why everybody here does it.”

Mr Watson encourages those that are interested to get involved and experience “the amazing group of humans that do this, if it’s on your bucket list, come along and join the family.”

All funds raised go directly towards supporting Variety’s mission to provide essential equipment, services and support to children facing challenging circumstances.

For more information about the Variety Victoria Bash, including event updates and ways to support this remarkable cause, please visit the Variety Victoria website.

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Over the last 32 years, the Variety Victoria Bash has travelled over 123,000 kilometres and raised more than $31 million for children. Photos supplied by Variety Victoria

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Friday 23rd August

Free Native Plant Program
9am
Free Native Plant Program open days will return on: Friday, August 23, from 9am to 3pm and Saturday, August 24, from 9am to noon. Mackay ratepayers can collect four free native plants per year. Visit the Mackay Natural Environment Centre, 6 Swayne Street, North Mackay to view the collection and pick up your plants during open days.
6 Swayne Street, North Mackay

Guided Walks In The Botanical Gardens
10am
Explore the Botanic Gardens with your Gardens Guide. Walks will differ each week in circuit and theme and are FREE to attend. Walks commence from Botanic Gardens Visitor Information (opposite the cafe) and go for one hour in duration. Walks are run every Friday morning, April to end of October. For more information, contact the gardens on phone (07) 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au
Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens

Splendour In The Arts
5.15pm
Ready to be mesmerised by the incredible talent on show by kindergarten students – Year 12 students? Roam through the art exhibition, be wowed by outdoor installations, visit the gallery, and be entertained by the talented student performances. P&F pre-show drinks on sale from 5:15pm. Performances from 5:45-8:20pm. All are welcome! 
Whitsunday Anglican School

Autobarn True Steet Car Meet
5.30pm
Autobarn are staying open late for the next Friday night meet, 5:30-8:00. Become an Autobarn member and benefit from great deals. Same as always all makes a models welcome but we do ask to please appreciate the vibe we are creating and leave the daily cars n 4x4’s across the road on the World Gym side.
Autobarn Mackay

LIVE Music
6.30pm
Get ready for the ultimate LIVE experience, featuring Anette Worthington!
Seabreeze Hotel

Saturday 24th August  

Beginner Floristry Workshop
12pm
Learn the basics of floristry from the experts. Secure your spot today and start your journey into the world of flowers!
The Florist Fourways

Mackay Twilight Makers Market
4pm
Enjoy the delicious food from the Mackay Food Trucks on Eat Street, and listen to the amazing local musicians perform. Plus, there’ll be plenty of fun activities to keep the kids entertained, whilst you explore the eclectic mix of handcrafted treasures. Adult Entry Fee is $2 - Kids 17 & under get in for FREE. Please note pre-sell tickets are not sold for events, the entry fee will be collected at the door during the event only. 
Mackay Showgrounds, The Big Shed

LIVE Music
6.30pm
Come on down for a delicious meal and a drink…or two…whilst you listen to the legendary Steve Kilbey, followed by Kylie & Ari LIVE!
Seabreeze Hotel

Sunday 25th August  

Birthing Kit Assembly Day
9am
The Birthing Kit Foundation (Australia) is a humanitarian organisation that provides birthing kits and education in clean birthing practices to women birthing at home in remote regions of the developing world. Zonta is proud to work in partnership with the Birthing Kit Foundation to pack and supply Clean Birth Kits to pregnant women living in rural communities and low-resource settings around the world. If you'd like to volunteer some time to help us pack these kits, please join us on Sunday August 25th.
Holy Spirit Collage

Second-Hand Book Sale
10am
100's of preloved books looking for their new home
12 Dustwill Street Eimeo

LIVE Music
2pm
Get ready for a great afternoon with Significant Other. Don't miss the opportunity to catch them LIVE!
Seabreeze Hotel

Monday 26th August

Discover Unique Worldwide Adventures
5.30pm
Adventure World, Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic and Star Clippers, invite you to an engaging evening with fellow travel enthusiasts. Book via www.helloworldtravelmackay.com.au
Harrup Park Country Club Mackay

Tuesday 27th August  

Pop Up Play Spaces: Indoor Play
1pm
Drop in and explore interactive play spaces for young children from birth to five years. These activities and experiences help support children’s physical, mental, social and emotional development.
Mackay Regional Council Libraries

Wednesday 28th August  

Mackay Farmers’ Market
6:30 – 10:30am
Shop local at the Mackay Farmers' Market and enjoy a morning on the Pioneer River.
Grab your reusable coffee cups, drink tumblers, water kefir bottles, produce and carry bags and stop in at the Mackay Farmers' Market every Wednesday.
Bluewater Quay

BMA CQ Rescue – Helicopter Arrival Demonstration
5.30pm
Come and be a part of history as CQ Rescue unveil their new AW139 life-saving helicopters! Watch them soar into the Mackay skies for the first time and enjoy thrilling flight demonstrations by their skilled crew. This marks the beginning of a new era for BMA CQ Rescue. Don’t miss this spectacular event!
Mackay Airport

Thursday 29th August  

Riverside Markets
3pm-8pm
Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations by crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!
Bluewater Quay

Australian Steelers Wheelchair Rugby Paralympics Watch Party
7pm
Get ready for the Australian Steelers Wheelchair Rugby Paralympics Watch Party at Harrup Park on the big screen in the Garden Bar. Starting from 7pm, watch the incredible talent from three Mackay born Paralympians that make up a ¼ of the Australian team as they battle against Great Britain.
Harrup Park Country Club

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Is Mackay’s next Aus Poetry Slam (APS) Champion among us? The CQ Heat is coming to town and it’s the perfect opportunity for aspiring poets to showcase their talent!

With just an original poem and 2 minutes on the mic, participants have the chance to impress the audience and judges. The top two poets from the event will move on to compete in the QLD State Finals in Brisbane on September 27.

For those who prefer to cheer from the sidelines, attending as part of the audience is just as important. Your support helps create an encouraging atmosphere for local wordsmiths.

Inclusivity is a priority at APS, and non-verbal poets or members of the deaf community are welcome to have an interpreter read their poem aloud, as long as the original poet stands beside the speaker.

The event will be held on Sunday, August 25, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM at the Mackay Surf Life Saving Club. Tickets are $15 and include complimentary platters with gluten-free and vegetarian options. Children under 5 are FREE.

Now is the time to secure your tickets and witness the undeniable talent that lies within our region.

Please note that some poetry content may not be suitable for younger audiences.
For more details, visit www.australianpoetryslam.com/rules
Tickets can be purchased via trybooking.com

What: Aus Poetry Slam 2024
When: Sunday 25 August 2024 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where: Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, LOT 67 E Point Dr, Mackay Harbour
Tickets: $15 - Book via trybooking.com

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Get your tickets now for the Aus Poetry Slam CQ Heat and witness the region’s rising stars as they perform their original poems for a chance to compete in the QLD State Finals! Photo source: Australian Poetry Slam

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Director Kristyn Everett has assembled an impressive cast for David Williamson’s Family Values, Kucom Theatre’s final production for the year, which opens on Thursday 24th October for a two-week season.
The play centres around Roger (played by Greg Webb), a retired judge, who is turning 70. All he wants for his birthday is some quality time with his wife Sue (Bronwyn Grannall) and their three children Lisa, Emily and Michael (Sarah Neivandt, Molly Betteridge, and Michael Brennan)—no gifts, no fuss. But the younger family members have other ideas, and the carefully planned low-key birthday party turns into something altogether different when unexpected guests Noeline and Saba (Megan Geoghegan and Nicole Pasquale) threaten to disrupt the peaceful family gathering.
Kucom Theatre said ticket sales have already been strong, “Early Bird bookings opened on Wednesday 14th August, for one week only.
“During that one week we sold just over ten per cent of all available tickets.
“But don’t worry, there are still plenty of good seats left, with a discounted rate for pensioners, students, groups of 6 or more, and an extra special discount for Kucom members (proof of membership required).”

What: Kucom Theatre’s Lates Production: Family Values
When: 24, 25, 26, 31 October and 1 & 2 November at 7.30pm, with a matinee at 2pm on Sunday 27 October.
Where: 1 Snow Wright Ct, Andergrove
Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/family-values.

For further information:
Phone: 0439 684 548
Email: admin@kucom.org.au
Website: www.kucom.org.au

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The St Patrick's College Cultural Showcase is being held on Thursday 29 August at the Bluewater Quay, in conjunction with the Riverside Markets.
Join us as we celebrate the incredible talents of our students, showcasing captivating performances from a variety of college ensembles. Whether you’re a fan of rhythmic beats or melodious harmonies, the lineup has something for everyone. Including performances from the College Stage and Concert Band, Drum Corps, Choir, Strings Ensemble and the lively Dance Troupe.
Entertainment will commence from 5:30pm and will feature performances from special guests, The Bluewater Big Band!
Bring along your picnic blanket and enjoy an entertaining evening, as our students perform their award-wining routines from the past year and much more. Feel free to wander through the Riverside Markets, where you’ll find a variety of local food and craft vendors.
Whether you’re a parent, friend, or a member of the community, this is the perfect opportunity to support our students and to enjoy an evening of musical entertainment. The St Patrick's College Cultural Showcase is not just an event, it’s a celebration of creativity, passion, and accomplishment.
So, gather your family and friends and come on down to the Bluewater Quay for an evening filled with great performances and community spirit. We can’t wait to see you there!
When: Thursday, August 29
Where: Bluewater Quay in conjunction with the Riverside Markets
Time:     Entertainment commencing from 5:30pm
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Don’t forget your picnic blanket and let’s make this Cultural Showcase a night to remember!

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Friday 23 August

The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Tim Griffin (8pm – 12am)
KC’s: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Sailing Club: Live Music (5-8pm)

Saturday 24 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Beach Boys (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Chris Webb (8pm – 12am)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm)
KC’s: Sar-Rah (from 8pm)
Sailing Club: Live Music (1-8pm)

Sunday 25 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Back to the 80s (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Chris Webb (4pm – 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Accoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Sailing Club (1-4pm)

Monday 26 August
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Tuesday 27 August
KC’s Ash Smith (from 8pm)

Wednesday 28 August
KC’s: Tash (from 8pm)

Thursday 29 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Ash Smith (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC’s: Tash (from 8pm)

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August
24 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
24 Thanks Doc, Larrikin Hotel, from 5.30pm
25 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 6pm
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm
31 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
31 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete, Cyclone Shelter, Primary school, Sterry St, Proserpine. 

September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
7 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
7 Kath and Kim Drag Bingo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
8 Whitsunday Thrift Club Market, Kipara Rainforest Retreat, from 9am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
21 Mayor’s Charity Ball, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 5pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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Following last year's success, Flametree Gathering returns over the Father’s Day weekend, for a family-friendly, fun time.

Co-organiser Bronwyn Garland is excited for the weekend which is said to be a small and intimate festival due to only 200 tickets being up for purchase.

“It's an intimate festival, it is not too big so people can get to know each other, and it is family friendly,” said Bronwyn.

“We invite families to come, and children 12 and under can come for free, because it's the Father's Day weekend, we want to create a family friendly community event.”

There will be music for everyone at this year’s Flametree Gathering with many world class artists performing a wide range of genres, blues, reggae, country and more.

Harry Kemp will be returning to the Whitsundays to perform, Bec and Rachel Olsson from Innocent Eve will be performing for the first time in two years.

Other music legends will be joining the festival including Karl S.Williams & Sally Wiggins, Sky Eater, Salt n Steel and festival organiser David Flower will be hitting the stage too.

The money raised from the Flametree Gathering will be supporting turtle rehabilitation by donating to Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. as David and Bronwyn believe it is a great local charity that deserves awareness and support for all the hard work they do.

David is looking forward to this year’s Flametree Gathering and is very proud to present this gathering to the Whitsunday people.

David and Bronwyn see big festivals around them cancelling and they understand that live music is under threat and it’s important for artists to keep performing and sharing their music with audiences.

What: Flametree Gathering
Where: 641 Conway Rd, Preston
When: Friday 30 August, Saturday 31 August, Sunday 1 September
Cost: 3 day pass $110, Camping $20 – Entry costs more at gate, bring cash for raffle and auctions

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Greg Andrews (Sir Elton John) has performed his tribute in over 30 countries and to this date is the only Elton John Tribute to be asked to perform at tribute festival Tribfest in Yorkshire, United Kingdom.

Tribfest is a strictly invite only festival and Greg is extremely proud of that.

“Being Australian and then being chosen to do British royalty on English soil, was a wonderful experience and the reception I got from the Brits was fantastic,” Greg added.

“It was an incredible experience performing there, it was just wonderful. It was probably the biggest crowd at a tribute festival I've performed at too.”

Tribfest is just one of the festivals Greg has performed at over the years, and it is one of his biggest achievements. Another was his invite to the Sydney premiere of the 2019 film ‘Rocketman’.

“I think since the movie, a lot of people have rekindled their love for the Elton music,” said Greg.

He also said he loves the diversity of age at his shows.

“The music of Elton John is generational. I have some people coming through that grew up with the Lion King in 94,” said Greg.

“When I do theatre shows the age group is vast, so it's not just people over 50 or 60. It is also people in their 20’s and 30’s coming to the show.”

Greg has performed at the Airlie Beach Hotel before and recalled the crowd being fantastic.

“It's going to be wonderful to see all those Elton fans come out and have a wonderful couple of days. I’m really looking forward to getting back to the beautiful Whitsundays,” Greg said.

Greg is performing on Saturday and Sunday (Father’s Day) so bring dad down to the Airlie Beach Hotel this Father’s Day for a great atmosphere and amazing songs.

What: The Elton John Experience
Where: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday 31 August & Sunday 1 September (Father’s Day)

The Elton John Experience, Photos supplied

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Whitsunday Thrift Club has announced its next market date on Sunday, September 8th at Kipara Rainforest Retreat. The club, headed by organiser Kaitlin Cavanagh is on a mission to revolutionize the pre-loved clothing market in the Whitsundays and bring the community together.
With limited local shopping options and a growing trend of online shopping, Whitsunday Thrift Club has identified the need for a space where people could find unique, quality pieces and where others could sell their preloved or vintage clothing that was too good to be destined for the op shop.
Following the resounding success of the first event in June, which showcased over 30 local sellers and drew in hundreds of excited attendees, the next event promises to be an even greater celebration of sustainable fashion and community spirit.
“This is an invitation to all fashion enthusiasts with pre-loved treasures waiting to be shared with the Whitsundays to seize this opportunity,” said Kaitlin.”
Those attending are encouraged to get in early to find the best bargains “the first thrift club market saw a few hundred keen shoppers come through the doors it was such an amazing experience to see so many locals get behind our initiative,” Kaitlin said “we are very excited about our next market.”
Interested in becoming a seller? You can apply by visiting Whitsunday Thrift Club’s website at www.whitsundaythriftclub.com.au
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What: Whitsunday Thrift Club Market
When: September 8, 2024
Where: Kipara Rainforest Retreat
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Thrift yourself happy!

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Friday 16th August

Mackay Employment Showcase
9am
You are invited to discover the wide range of employment opportunities available now at Endeavour Foundation Business Solutions – Mackay. You’ll learn about: The different jobs that might just be right for you, What it’s like to work for Endeavour Foundation and How you can be a part of #TeamPossible. This event is for you if you are: A person with disability looking for a job or Curious about the services we provide to support people with disability in the community. This is a FREE event. Refreshments will be provided.
22 David Muir St, Slade Point 

Conversations With Art
1pm
Held on the 3rd Friday of each month, 'Conversations with Art' is a free and enjoyable discussion led by Artspace staff as we look at art works and images from gallery and museum collections. Come along whether you’re an artist, an art and language lover, beginner, or expert! Bookings required via Artspace Mackay
Artspace Mackay, 61 Gordon St, Mackay 

Women’s Cricket: Australia A Takes On India A
1pm
Witness top-tier cricket action at the Great Barrier Reef Arena as Australia A takes on India A this week. FREE Entry! Come cheer on Mackay local hero Charli Knott and captain Tahlia McGrath as they battle it out on the stunning Great Barrier Reef Arena!
Great Barrier Reef Arena

Accessible Active Living Seminar
2.30pm
Get ready for the 2024 Accessible Active Living Seminar! This free seminar will be packed with informative discussions and presentations aimed at educating sporting clubs, fitness groups and recreational activity organisers on how to become more inclusive and accessible for their communities
Harrup Park Country Club

Wings and Wheels Trivia Night
6.30pm
"Wings and Wheels" Trivia Night will be hosted by the Mackay Aeroclub! If you're a fan of cars, bikes, or planes, this is the event for you. Get ready for a fun-filled evening with your fellow enthusiasts! Trivia Starts: 6:30 PM. Teams: Up to 5 members per team. Entry is FREE!
Mackay Aero Club, South Mackay

LIVE Music
6.30pm
Get ready for the ultimate experience of Hyphen Entertainment Karaoke!
Seabreeze Hotel

Saturday 17th August  

Pilates With Katrina At Laffos
7am
Pilates with Katrina for LRC Runners after your Saturday morning run / walk. Please bring mat and $5.
Undercover area opposite Laffos Bar & Pizzeria, Caneland

Broken To Brilliant Connection Walk
8am
on the 3rd Saturday of every month for the Mackay Broken to Brilliant Connection Walk, which combines the beauty of outdoor walking with a focus on connection and gratitude. The Mackay Broken to Brilliant Connection Walk offers a safe and supportive environment for domestic violence victims- survivors-thrivers, families, friends, and community members to connect with one another. Let's walk together, heal together, and shine brilliantly in the face of life's challenges!
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant

Zing Cosplay Competition 2024
9am
Zing Pop Culture Canelands and Caneland Central are hosting a Cosplay Competition to raise funds for Starlight Children’s Foundation! Categories: Children’s 12yrs and under, Beginners, Advanced (bought costumes), Advanced (made costumes), $15 to enter per person, Register in store!
Caneland Central

LIVE Music
6.30pm
Come on down for a delicious meal and a drink…or two…whilst you listen to the legendary BARBSWIRED!
Seabreeze Hotel

Sunday 18th August  

Trash & Treasure
8am
Trash & Treasure - a SECOND HAND market aimed at promoting sustainability, affordability, and community engagement. Think the town's biggest garage sale! Whether you're looking to downsize, trying to declutter or just wanting to make a quick buck you'll be wanting to host a stall at this eclectic gathering where the general community can sell their pre-loved items in a fun, market format. Stall bookings essential
CQ University Mackay City Campus

Women’s Cricket: Australia A Takes On India A
1pm
Missed Friday’s game? Come on down to the Sunday game! witness top-tier cricket action at the Great Barrier Reef Arena as Australia A takes on India A this week. FREE Entry! Come cheer on Mackay local hero Charli Knott and captain Tahlia McGrath as they battle it out on the stunning Great Barrier Reef Arena!
Great Barrier Reef Arena

LIVE Music
2pm
Get ready for a great afternoon with Significant Other. Don't miss the opportunity to catch them LIVE!
Seabreeze Hotel

Try Oztag For Free
From 2.30pm
Juniors! Come down and try oztag FOR FREE! U6-U15’s Bring a Water bottle, wear closed in shoes or football boots, Shorts with NO pockets. Registration and information available on the day!
Souths Junior Rugby league grounds 

Tuesday 20th August  

First Nations Social & Emotional Wellbeing Workshop
10am
Learn how to understand the landscape for First Nations peoples in the region. Uncover ways to best support social and emotional wellbeing for First Nations peoples in our region, work collaboratively to create a more inclusive community, Advocate for appropriate services in our region, Integrate knowledge into Workplace Policies, Procedures and Practices. This event is led by Bindal Community Elder and Traditional Owner, Aunty Dorothy Savage and Alfred Henaway. Everyone Welcome
500 Pavillion, Showgrounds Mackay

Wednesday 21st August  

Mackay Farmers’ Market
6:30 – 10:30am
Shop local at the Mackay Farmers' Market and enjoy a morning on the Pioneer River.
Grab your reusable coffee cups, drink tumblers, water kefir bottles, produce and carry bags and stop in at the Mackay Farmers' Market every Wednesday.
Bluewater Quay

Thursday 22nd August  

Riverside Markets
3pm-8pm
Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations by crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!
Bluewater Quay

Rum Jungle Live At Seabreeze
7pm
Don’t miss Rum Jungle live at Seabreeze Hotel! Presented by triple j, Cult Artists, Ripple Effect, Philter & Afends. Rum Jungle have cemented themselves as a strong live act as a result of relentless touring, domestically and internationally. Their ability to highlight both sides of the same coin is what makes Rum Jungle a cut above the rest. Tickets available via Oztix
Seabreeze Hotel

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Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens is already a magical place, but next Thursday (August 22) it will be transformed into a paradise for picture book heroes.

Keep an eye out for cats in hats, alpacas with maracas, hungry caterpillars, Wiggles, Wallys, wizards, unicorns, superheroes and fairytale characters.

Picnic in the Gardens, running from 9.30am to 11.30am, is Mackay Regional Council Libraries’ yearly Book Week blowout complete with Story Time under the trees and Baby Bounce on the lawn.

There will be lots of fun for the kids with face painting, puppets, craft activities plus heaps more.

Families are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket and kick back in the green space beside the Botanic Gardens Café.

Stalls from local children’s service providers will be set up around the edge of the parkland.

For more information on our Libraries’ Book Week celebrations, and access to the 2024 Book of the Year Shortlist, visit mackay.qld.gov.au/bookweek

About Children’s Book Week

Each year since 1945 the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) has brought children and books together across Australia through Children’s Book Week. During this time schools and public libraries spend one glorious week celebrating books and Australian children's authors and illustrators.
This year’s theme is “Reading is Magic”.  Children’s Book Week runs from August 17 to 23.
The CBCA also proudly announces the 2024 Book of the Year Shortlist. From 656 entries across six categories, 36 quality Australian children’s books are celebrated.

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Keep an eye out for hungry caterpillars, Wiggles, Wallys, wizards, unicorns, superheros, fairy-tale characters and many more book characters at the Picnic in the Park. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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Australia’s beloved musical treasure, Marcia Hines has a career spanning five decades, and the pop superstar is heading to the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on Saturday 21 September.

The visit follows Marcia’s successful return as a judge on Seven Network’s Australian Idol and her starring role in the John Frost touring production of Grease.

Accompanied by her musicians and production crew, the performance will celebrate the extraordinary output of this Australian legend.

With hits including ‘Fire and Rain’, ‘Never Knew Love Like This Before’ and ‘You’, fans can expect the performance to encapsulate Marcia’s incredible vocal range and recording career.

Since moving to Australia from Boston at the age of 16 to star in the production of ‘Hair’, Marcia has become an integral part of the Australian music and entertainment industry with 22 albums, 2.6 million in sales and countless chart-topping singles.

An inspiration to women across Australia, Marcia was inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2007 and presented with an Order of Australia in 2009.

The performance on 21 September is part of the September Weekender event taking place at the MECC, which highlights three events over three days.

The September Weekender event will also see an 18+ cabaret event and a children’s circus event taking the stage, at differing days and times.

Venue and Events Operations Manager, Jemma Carey, said September Weekender 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.

Audiences attending Marcia Hines concert can expect two hours plus of memories and musicality.

Tickets available at themecc.com.au

What: Marcia Hines
When: Saturday 21 September, 7.30pm
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

Don’t miss Australia’s pop superstar, Marcia Hines as she graces the MECC stage on Saturday, September 21, delivering a night of unforgettable hits and incredible vocal performances. Images supplied

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