The internationally acclaimed theatrical concert The Simon & Garfunkel Story is heading to the Whitsundays, with a one-night-only performance at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Thursday, the 28th of August.

Following sold-out tours across the USA, UK, and Europe, this global sensation will bring its powerful tribute to one of music’s most iconic duos to local audiences. With performances in over 50 countries and more than 20 headline shows in London’s prestigious West End – including appearances at the world-famous London Palladium – The Simon & Garfunkel Story has cemented itself as a must-see event for fans of the era.

Telling the captivating tale of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel’s meteoric rise to fame, the production traces the duo’s journey from humble beginnings as 1950s rock 'n' roll act Tom & Jerry, through their chart-topping success, dramatic split, solo careers, and ending with a stirring recreation of their legendary 1981 Central Park reunion concert.

With a full live band, stunning 1960s imagery, video projections, and unforgettable renditions of timeless hits including Mrs Robinson, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound, Scarborough Fair, The Boxer, The Sound Of Silence, and Cecilia, the show offers a deeply immersive experience for fans old and new.

The production has been praised around the world, earning rave reviews for its emotional storytelling and world-class musical performances.

“Simply incredible,” hailed BBC Scotland, while the Burnley Express said, “The standing ovation at the end of this impressive show was a given as soon as the final note faded from the very first song.”

Even Art Garfunkel himself gave the show five stars, declaring; “What a great show.”

With tickets already in demand, patrons are encouraged to book early to avoid missing out on what promises to be a memorable evening.

Tickets are available now via www.proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au or at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre's box office. Don’t miss your chance to relive the soundtrack of a generation with this internationally celebrated show.

When: Thursday the 28th of August from 7pm to 9:20pm
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street, Proserpine

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Friday 1 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Troy Morrison(from 8pm)
KC's: Ronny Croker(from 8pm)

Saturday 2 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Whispering Jack Show (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Velvet Divan (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Two Fires Tribute (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Josiah
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Sunday 3 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: 3 Johns (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Colonial Palms Motor Inn: Live Jazz with Nick di Gregorio (2pm - 5pm)
Grand View Hotel: Alan Gumm (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Sunday Session w DJ Dan Ahri
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Monday 4 August
KC's: Jason Bull (from 8pm)

Tuesday 5 August
KC's: Jason Bull (from 8pm)

Wednesday 6 August
KC's: Nick di Gregorio (from 8pm)

Thursday 7 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

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August

1-3 Great Barrier Reef Festival

1 Author Talk Session by Marion Weatherburn, Proserpine Library, 10:30am - 12.30pm

1 Author Talk Session by Marion Weatherburn, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm - 4:00pm

1 Great Barrier Reef Festival Presents: Luca, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

3 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

4 Author Talk Session by Marion Weatherburn, Bowen Library, 10:00am - 12:00pm

5 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

6 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

7-14 Airlie Beach Race Week

8 Airlie Beach Race Week Presents: Happy Feet, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

10 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

12 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

14 Morning Melodies - For the Love of Tony, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11:00am

16-23 Hamilton Island Race Week

16 Coral Sea Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival (day one)

17 Coral Sea Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival (day two)

17 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

19 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

20 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

24 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

26 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

31 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

September

2 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

5 Don River Dash 300 Day 1, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

3 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

6 Don River Dash 300 Day 2, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Father’s Day

7 Don River Dash 300 Day 3, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

9 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

11 R U OK? Day

12 & 13 White on Whitehaven

12 Whitsunday Writers Festival 12th – 14th

12 Kung Fu Panda 4, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

16 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

17 Australian Citizenship Day

17 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

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The Australian Eagles are set to bring their signature blend of country rock back to the Airlie Beach Hotel in August, promising two laid-back afternoons packed with all the hits fans know and love.

Founder and band member Shayne Browne said the group has been playing in Airlie Beach for over six years now, with two to three performances a year, and Shane said it’s always a highlight.

“We love it,” Shayne said.

“The town, the people, the pub, it’s great. It’s just got such a relaxed vibe.

We’ve even been stranded here during a flood, but mind you it’s not a bad place to be stranded!”

The Australian Eagles show celebrates the timeless music of the legendary American band, The Eagles, who have been entertaining fans since 1972. It was The Eagles that got Shayne into music after hearing ‘Take It Easy’ back in 1972.

“I was about 10 years old when I first heard Take It Easy on the radio in my mum’s car. I told her then and there I wanted to play music for a living.”

At the Airlie Beach Hotel, you can expect all the classics like ‘One of These Nights’, ‘Life in the Fast Lane’, ‘New Kid in Town’, ‘Take It Easy’, and of course ‘Hotel California’.

The group’s enduring popularity has seen them tour across Australia and internationally, including cruise ships and festivals like the Outback Festival Winton and even a five-year run at Melbourne’s Crown Casino.

The Australian Eagles Show has been running for 10 years and Shayne says the highlight of all these years is hanging back after performances and chatting to audience members and thanking them for coming.

Despite performing at major venues, Shayne says Airlie Beach remains one of the most unique places they play.

“The setup at the Airlie Beach Hotel is like nowhere else,” he said.

“People eating on one side, dancing on the other, and the public walking through the middle of it all, it’s really unique.”

Fans can catch the Australian Eagles for free on Saturday and Sunday afternoons, mid-August, at the Airlie Beach Hotel’s Beach Bar.

“It’s the only venue in Australia we play for free,” Shayne said.

For a chilled show filled with relaxing rock, the Airlie Beach Hotel will be the place to be.

WHAT: The Australian Eagles Show
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 16 August & Sunday 17 August (2pm – 5.30pm)

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Photos supplied

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Whitsundays-based spiritualist and author Marion Weatherburn is preparing to launch her second book, ‘Wired Not Weird’, this Sunday at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

Describing herself as a fourth-generation spiritualist, Marion has completed nearly 7,000 readings over 37 years and her new book, ‘Wired Not Weird’, is both memoir and manual.

“This book is a spiritual handbook. It teaches people how to hear, how to listen, and how to know, so they can connect with their own guides and loved ones,” explained Marion.

The new book focuses on empowering people to develop their own spiritual awareness. It outlines exercises like her unique ‘colours, shapes and numbers’ method to help people distinguish messages from mere thoughts.

“It's something that I've developed over many years to help people realise what part of their brain they're hearing messages in,” she said.

“Generally for most people, 85 per cent of what goes into their brain is a thought. The other 15 per cent of what goes into their brain is a message from a guide or a message from a loved one.”

Marion helps people understand the difference between a thought and a message.

Her belief is that everyone can access their spiritual guidance.

“I’d love to put psychics and mediums out of work,” she laughed.

“Not because I don’t believe in the gift but because I want people to feel it for themselves. That’s what the book helps people do.”

“Psychologists work on a mind level. I work on a soul level,” she said.

In addition to the launch event at the Sailing Club, Marion will speak at the Proserpine, Cannonvale and Bowen libraries, and at the Beach Book Boutique in Airlie Beach.

Book Launch
Whitsunday Sailing Club
Sunday 27 July from 2:30pm

Author Talk Sessions
Beach Book Boutique
Thursday 31 July from 11am

Proserpine Library
Friday 1 August from 10.30am-12.30pm

Cannonvale Library
Friday 1 August from  2-4pm

Bowen Library
Monday 4 August from 10-12pm

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Marion Weatherburn's book launch is this Sunday at the Whitsunday Sailing Club. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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Bowen is once again set to roar to life as the Don River Dash returns for its seventh year this September, promising high-octane action, community spirit, and a unique racing experience in the heart of the Whitsundays.

What started in 2019 with just 40 bikes and 30 cars has grown into a major motorsport event. Attracting around 100 vehicles, including trophy trucks, buggies, and other modified racers and over 220 bike riders and growing.

The 50-kilometre course, set in the dry Don River bed, is completed three times on both Saturday and Sunday, totalling 300 gruelling kilometres. With recent rainfall in the riverbed, competitors can expect a few wet surprises this year. Event Secretary Sue Tapp said the race continues to grow in popularity and reputation.

“The course changes every year,” Sue said. “Some years there are more whoops, big, jumpy mounds, and other years it’s more wide open and fast.

“It changes, and just because you did it last year doesn't mean it's exactly the same this year.”

Event preparations are already well underway, with track construction set to begin in August. Sue said that putting the event together takes a massive team effort, including around 200 volunteers handling everything from recovery to logistics.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Don River Dash has become one of the region’s most iconic and impactful events since first launching in 2019.

“The Don River Dash has come a long way since it first roared to life in 2019, and last year’s event was the biggest yet with over 400 open competitor entries and crowds of more than 5,000 across four incredible days,” he said.

"The excitement of the race is just one part of the story. The real win is the economic boost it brings to our communities.

“Our economic analysis shows the 2024 event generated over $7 million in direct local impact, supporting businesses throughout Bowen, Collinsville and communities right across the Whitsundays.”

Council have produlyy supported the Bowen River Dash since day one and in 2025 they are providing financial in-kind support to help organisers grow what’s become one of the Whitsundays’ most iconic events.

Mayor Collins said the Dash puts the Whitsunday region on the map for adventure tourism and showcases the heart of the region’s inland communities, their energy, hospitality, and unique landscape.

“It draws visitors from across Queensland and interstate, and that brings real benefits to our motels, cafes, fuel stops, pubs and tourism operators.”

“Beyond the dust and adrenaline, events like this drive bookings for local operators, bring new customers through the doors of small businesses, and create flow-on benefits right across the tourism sector.

“They help build our profile as a destination and give visitors a reason to explore the full depth of what the Whitsundays has to offer.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy agreed that the Don River Dash was a fantastic event for Bowen; “This event has only been going since 2019 and it continues to grow each year, providing a huge economic boost for our region."

“At the Bowen Visitor Information Centre, we are always busy before, during and after the Dash." Leanne continued, “It is great to see so many competitors and their support crew, as well as spectators, making it a real family holiday and staying after the event to explore Bowen and the greater Whitsundays region.”

With just six weeks to go, the countdown is on to what is quickly becoming one of North Queensland’s most iconic off-road events.

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The track changes every year

There are plenty of jumps to hit

Photos supplied

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The Bowen Polocrosse Club is preparing for a weekend to remember, with its inaugural Ladies Day event happening this Saturday, the 26th of July. Tickets to the highly anticipated event sold out weeks in advance, marking a promising start for what could become a new annual tradition.

Running from 12pm to 4pm, the ticketed event will treat 100 lucky guests to live acoustic music, prosecco, raffles, and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere alongside A and B grade polocrosse matches. With optional catering, drinks, and souvenirs included, the event offers the perfect blend of sport and socialising, all set under the Whitsunday sun.

Ladies Day is just the beginning of a full Saturday of festivities. From 8am, the Bowen Polocrosse Club will host a full day of competitive action, before transitioning into its popular Night Chukkas evening. Attendees can enjoy live music, a Calcutta, food stalls, a bar, and a Kids’ Corner, making it a great night out for families and locals alike.

The weekend-long event is expected to draw visitors from across the region, bringing both a boost to the local economy and a wave of community spirit to Bowen.

Although Ladies Day tickets are sold out, those unable to attend are encouraged to check the Bowen Polocrosse Club’s official social media pages for resale opportunities. With such strong interest, this debut event is shaping up to be a standout on the local events calendar.

What: Bowen Polocrosse Club Ladies Day
Where: Bowen Polocrosse Club
When: Saturday, 26th of July from 12pm

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July

26 2025 Mayor's Charity Ball, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 5pm - 12am, $250

27 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

27 St Catherine's Catholic College Centenary Picnic, 10am - 3pm

27 Book Launch - Wired not Weird, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 2:30pm

29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

29 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

31 Author Talk Session by Marion Weatherburn, Beach Book Boutique, from 11am

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Friday 25th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
KC's: Corey Harris (from 8pm)

Saturday 26th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon  (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Hannah Roberts (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Shae (1pm – 6pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver

Sunday 27th July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Hannah Roberts (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Scotty Wilson (2pm – 6pm)
KC's: Nick di Gregorio (from 8pm)

Monday 28th July
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Tuesday 29th July
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Wednesday 30th July
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Thursday 31st July
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

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Young instrumentalists from the Whitsunday region have the exciting opportunity to represent their community on the state stage this August, with invitations now open for the 2025 Oz Schools Instrumental Championships (OSIC).

Held at the State Library of Queensland in Brisbane, OSIC is a prestigious solo performance competition for school-age students, with categories including piano, strings, drums, and guitar. The event will feature Queensland’s most talented young musicians performing in a live concert and competition format, with top performers progressing to the National Final in Melbourne.

According to organisers, students who have placed at local eisteddfods may be eligible for direct entry into the state final.

“We’ve created a pathway that celebrates local achievement,” says Joe Patrick, a music educator and event director.

“Students who’ve already performed well locally can now showcase their talents on a professional stage, connect with other top musicians, and represent their town at a state level.”

Students who have not recently participated in an eisteddfod can still apply by submitting a short audition video. Past performance footage or YouTube links are accepted, and full entry details — including eligibility criteria and how to audition — are available online at www.osic.com.au.

Organisers are hopeful to see plenty of North Queensland talent featured on stage in Brisbane this August and entries for the Queensland State Final close on Sunday, the 3rd of August.

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OSIC 2024 Junior Strings Finalist (Photo Supplied)
OSIC 2024 Junior Drums Finalist (Photo Supplied)
OSIC QLD State Final Venue State Library of Queensland (Photo Supplied)

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Get ready to rewind time, Airlie Beach is set to be drenched in synths, sequins and shoulder pads when the Rewind 80s Band return for two epic shows this August.

The Melbourne-based seven-piece group, led by powerhouse vocalist and band founder Samantha Atkins, will take to the stage at the Airlie Beach.

“It’s all the greatest hits from the 80s, think Madonna, Van Halen, ABBA, Jimmy Barnes, and more,” Samantha said.

“We’re all dressed up in full costume, and the setlist is a fail safe for hitting the dance floor and to get moving.”

Rewind 80s don’t just play the hits, they bring them to life. With multiple costume changes and magnetic stage presence, the band recreates the vibrant spirit of the decade, right down to the hair and harmonies. Audiences can expect classics like Jessie’s Girl, Living on a Prayer, Material Girl, Sledgehammer, and Sweet Child O’ Mine, songs that have stood the test of time and still fill dancefloors across the world.

The crowd can be anywhere from 25 to 65, and they will still have a blast and a great time.

“The music of the 80s is timeless, and the people who come to our shows are there to let loose, sing along, and dance like no one’s watching,” Atkins said.

“There’s something special about that generation, they’re not sitting at home on iPads, they’re out meeting people.”

The band, affectionately dubbed The New Wigs on the Block, has spent the last 14 years touring extensively across Australia. Their theatre-sized stage show, complete with lighting and video effects at some venues, has wowed crowds in cities like Cairns, Townsville, and Darwin. Their last visit to Airlie Beach earlier this year was such a hit, they couldn’t resist coming back for another round.

“We had a fantastic time doing early last time and apparently there's a lot of birthday parties that are going to be there this time around,” added Samantha.

While many acts of the era have faded into the past, Rewind 80s continues to grow in popularity thanks to their commitment to live performance and connection with audiences. During the pandemic, the group pivoted from pubs to theatre venues, expanding their reach across the country and gaining a whole new fanbase.

So if you’re a fan of neon colours, leg warmers, and unforgettable anthems, don’t miss your chance to catch Rewind 80s Band live at the Airlie Beach Hotel this August.

WHAT: Rewind 80’s
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 9 August (2pm – 5.30pm) & Sunday 10 August (2pm – 5.30pm)

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They've been hitting stages country wide
Don't Miss the performance at the Airlie Beach Hotel
They arrive in the Whitsundays soon

Photos sourced: Facebook

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One of the Whitsundays’ most cherished community events is back at the Great Barrier Reef Festival (GBRF)! Locals are already preparing their best outfits and teaming up as excitement builds for the Rotary Street Parade, set to light up Airlie Beach Main Street on Saturday, 2 August from 5pm.
As a key highlight of the festival, the parade is a colourful, high-energy celebration of creativity, reef life, and community pride. Businesses, schools, community groups and performers will bring the street to life with vibrant costumes, music, floats, and entertainment for all ages to enjoy.
This year’s theme is “Coral Kingdom”, so expect everything from sea creatures and coral castles to sky-high jellyfish and ocean-inspired characters. The parade winds through the heart of Airlie Beach, with locals and visitors lining the streets to cheer on the floats and soak up the atmosphere.
Community members are encouraged to get involved. Whether you're a sporting team, school group, business or club, this is your chance to showcase your creativity and connect with the crowd. Entries can be walking groups, vehicle floats or a mix of both. Prizes will be awarded for Best Business Entry, Best Not-for-Profit Entry, and Most Creative and Wacky.
It’s also a great team-building activity, and many participants say the preparations are just as fun as the parade itself!
Spectators can catch the action from anywhere along the route or enjoy the view from local cafés and bars. Entry deadline is Wednesday, 30 July — don’t miss your chance to be part of the magic.
Register your parade team now at: greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au
   • What: 2025 Rotary Street Parade
   • Where: Airlie Beach Main Street
   • When: Saturday 2nd August, from 5pm

Revvin’ the Reef Roars Back into Airlie Beach
What’s that rumble? It can only mean one thing… the roar of engines as cars roll into town for the inaugural Revvin’ the Reef car show!
Airlie Beach Main Street will come alive with chrome, colour, and community spirit on Saturday, 2 August, when Revvin’ the Reef makes its high-octane debut. Proudly presented by ENZED Whitsundays and Hog’s Breath Cafe Airlie Beach, this exciting new event is a celebration of horsepower and heritage.
From hot rods and muscle cars to EVs, motorbikes, classic cars, and trucks, the street will be lined with a dazzling display of vehicles from 10am to 2pm. Live music will set the tone for a fun-filled morning.
Vehicle owners are encouraged to pre-register, as spaces are limited. Entry is $15 for cars and trucks, and $10 for motorbikes, with trophies awarded to the Top 10 Vehicles, as voted by the public.
While the official Miss Pin-Up Competition is on pause this year, the vintage spirit lives on! Attendees are invited to dress in their best retro, rockabilly, or vintage-inspired outfits, with spot prizes for the most creative looks.
Whether you’re showing off your pride and joy or cheering from the sidelines, Revvin’ the Reef is a must-see celebration of community, creativity, and classic style.
   • What: Revvin’ the Reef
   • Where: Airlie Beach Main Street
   • When: Saturday 2nd August 2025, 10am–2pm

Build It, Float It, Race It – The Recyclable Regatta Returns!
Ahoy there, pirates! Get ready for a morning of chaos, creativity, and coastal fun as the Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta sails back to the Airlie Beach Foreshore on Sunday, 3 August, from 8:30am.
A firm festival favourite, this action-packed event sees schools, community groups, local businesses and brave mates build and paddle their way across the water in homemade rafts, all made entirely from recyclable materials. From milk bottles and bamboo to plastic drums and pirate costumes—anything goes as long as it’s sustainable and seaworthy!
Proudly supported by Whitsunday Escape, the regatta promises plenty of laughs and friendly competition. This year, businesses are especially encouraged to join the fun. It’s the perfect team-building challenge—build a branded raft and go head-to-head with your industry rivals for prizes and bragging rights.
There are four divisions:
   • Kids (6–12)
   • Teens (13–17)
   • Adults (18+)
   • Local Business category
Great prizes are up for grabs in each!
Rafts must be no larger than 3m x 3m, with a maximum of three crew members. Life jackets are mandatory, and the race isn’t over until your whole team runs up the beach and crosses the finish line together.
So, gather your crew, register online, and start collecting your materials. The Recyclable Regatta is a celebration of sustainability, community spirit, and good old-fashioned fun.
For full raft guidelines or advice on materials, email: marketing@whitsundayescape.com
   • What: 2025 Recyclable Regatta
   • Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore
   • When: Sunday 3rd August 2025, 8:30

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Art lovers across the region are in for a treat as the Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition returns for its second year, promising a vibrant and inspiring showcase of local creativity. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday Sailing Club, the exhibition will run from July 31 to August 4 and feature 78 original artworks created by 61 talented regional artists.

With entries spanning painting, sculpture, and photography, each piece draws inspiration from the Reef’s breathtaking marine life, coral beauty, and dynamic coastal culture. The exhibition has quickly become a standout event within the annual Great Barrier Reef Festival, attracting growing interest and recognition from across Queensland and beyond.

A panel of respected local figures—including celebrated artist Carol Bell, Whitsunday Councillor Jan Clifford, and Proserpine State High’s Head of The Arts, Jenny Napier—carefully selected the finalists from an impressive array of submissions.

“The standard was incredibly high,” said Ms Bell. “It was a real challenge to choose, but the finalists represent the exceptional talent we have here in the Whitsundays.”

Artists are in the running for the prestigious $3000 Whitsunday Regional Council Acquisitive Art Prize, with the winning artwork to be added to the Council’s permanent collection. Irene Mengel, Manager of Brisbane’s Aspire Gallery, will serve as guest judge for the 2025 competition, lending her expertise and industry insight to the final decision.

The exhibition opens with a public Awards Night on Thursday, July 31 at 6:30pm. Everyone is welcome to attend, with free entry for all. Following the launch, the exhibition will remain open daily until Monday, August 4, giving locals and tourists alike the chance to enjoy the diverse collection.

Visitors are encouraged to vote for their favourite piece in the $1000 People’s Choice Award, proudly supported by Bendigo Bank. Local schools will also be offered guided educational tours, providing students with the opportunity to engage with the visual arts firsthand and learn about the Reef’s connection to artistic expression.

Returning bigger and better, the 2025 Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition is shaping up to be a major cultural highlight for the Whitsundays—a celebration of artistic talent, community spirit, and the enduring magic of the Great Barrier Reef.

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Immerse Yourself in a Reef of Art and Imagination

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The Airlie Beach Foreshore will be transformed into an oceanic dreamscape from 1 to 3 August as the Immerse Art Installation, proudly sponsored by Tassal, makes its return for the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
Spanning the length of the foreshore and centred beneath the iconic fig tree, the installation invites festivalgoers to wander through a vibrant, reef-inspired wonderland. Created by local artists using recycled plastics, materials and marine debris, the sculptures highlight both the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and the importance of protecting it.
Visitors can expect an enchanting display of sculptured sea creatures, coral forms, and glowing lanterns. The installation continues to grow each year, now extending from the much-loved ‘Great Eight’ tree to the ‘Estuary’, with mesmerising animated projections lighting up the Heart Hotel and a glowing entrance welcoming you onto the foreshore.
Immerse is brought to life thanks to the creativity and dedication of local talents including Margaret Burgess, Anita Pender, Brigitte Peel, Liz Knight, and Margie Murphy with animated projections of artists works curated by Donna Maree Robinson.
In the lead-up to the festival new artists and craftspeople get involved with the project year-on-year, sharing skills, creating new works and growing the installations footprint.
Whether you're visiting by day or experiencing the illuminated magic at night, Immerse promises a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate the reef through art, imagination, and community connection.

Creative students from Proserpine State High School, St Catherine’s Catholic College, and Whitsunday Christian College are invited to enter the 2025 Reeflections Student Art Competition, now open to students in Years 10, 11, and 12.
This year’s theme, “Whitsundays and the Great Barrier Reef – Celebrating Marine Beauty and Conservation,” encourages young artists to explore the natural wonders of the region and express their connection to the reef through original artworks.
Finalists will have their pieces professionally exhibited at Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays during the Great Barrier Reef Festival, offering a unique opportunity to gain public and media recognition.
There are exciting incentives for students to get involved, including:
   • Cash prizes for winning entries
   • A finalist draw to win a luxury two-night getaway
   • Media features and gallery recognition
The competition welcomes all forms of visual art, from painting and drawing to digital media and photography.
Entries close on 26 July 2025, so students are encouraged to start creating and submit their work before the deadline.

Making Waves: GBRF Art Exhibition Returns with ‘Tides of Connection’ Theme
The Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition is returning in 2025, set to once again transform the Whitsunday Sailing Club into a stunning gallery space from 31 July to 4 August. Open to artists residing along the coast from Agnes Water to Cooktown, the curated exhibition invites creative interpretations of this year’s theme, “Tides of Connection.”
The theme explores the intricate relationships between people, culture, and the reef, inviting works that reflect on the ties between marine ecosystems, human experiences, and the reef’s past, present, and future.
Selected works will be professionally exhibited during the festival, with the Opening Night on Thursday 31 July, from 6pm to 8pm.
Exhibition hours continue through to Monday 4 August, with a final gathering on Tuesday 5 August to announce the People’s Choice Award and raffle winners.
Generous cash prizes are on offer for the exhibition, including a $3000 Best in Show award sponsored by the Whitsunday Regional Council. There are also $1000 prizes for the 2D, 3D, and Photography categories, a $500 Cathy Knezevic Local Artist Award, a $1000 People’s Choice Award, and a $200 Framing Award.
Finalist artworks must be delivered to the Sailing Club on 30 July between 9:30am and 12 noon.

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