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Friday 20 March Dancing With Heart 6:30pm A night of entertainment with a purpose, Dancing With Heart returns on Friday 20 March, bringing local personalities to the stage for a fun-filled dance competition. Guided by professional choreographers, participants will perform to raise funds for the My Hospital Foundation. Guests can enjoy dinner, vote for the People’s Choice Award and help support better outcomes for local patients and families. Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre Saturday 21 March New Moon Ultra “Off the Beaten Track” Trial Run Series 6am Test your endurance at this unique overnight trail running event held under the March new moon. Athletes can choose from 6km, 36km or 72km distances, with races starting every hour from 6pm through to 6am. Prize money is up for grabs, and participants will take on exclusive trails only open for this event — making it a one-of-a-kind challenge for runners of all levels. Rowallan Park Dads and Bubs Baby Bounce 10am Dads are invited to bond with their little ones at this fun and interactive Baby Bounce session. Featuring nursery rhymes, songs and playful activities, the session supports early language development from birth to walking age. It’s a great way to connect, create special memories and support your child’s growth. This is a free event, but bookings are essential. Dudley Denny City Library Autumn Orchid Show Saturday 8am – 4pm & Sunday 9am – 2pm The Mackay & District Orchid Society will host its annual Autumn Orchid Show on March 21–22 at the Senior Citizens Centre on Macalister Street, featuring a stunning display of flowering orchids alongside plants and gardening supplies for sale, including pots, potting medium, tags and hangers, with raffles and refreshments also available; the event runs from 8am to 4pm Saturday and 9am to 2pm Sunday, with a $2 coin entry, and further information is available by contacting President Noel Acton on 0409 637 384. Senior Citizens Centre, Macalister Street Rotary Charity Wine Dinner 5:30pm Enjoy an elegant evening of fine food and wine at the Rotary Charity Wine Dinner on Saturday 21 March. Featuring a five-course degustation with wine pairings, the night also includes a wine auction, raffle and lucky door prizes. Proceeds support charities assisting women and children impacted by domestic violence. Guests can expect a memorable night of dining, giving and community spirit. Harrup Park Country Club Sunday 22 March Cuppa With Your Neighbour – Northern Beaches 9am Connect with your community at this free “Cuppa with Your Neighbour” event on Saturday 22 March at the Northern Beaches Community Hub. Enjoy a complimentary coffee while meeting locals and making new connections in a relaxed, friendly setting. Proudly supported by the Mackay Regional Council, this welcoming event is open to everyone — whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident. Northern Beaches Community Hub Tuesday 24 March Walk and Talk Book Club 8am Combine a love of reading with the outdoors at this unique walking book club set in the Botanic Gardens. Meet fortnightly for relaxed walks, chats and book discussions, with a new title to explore each month. Stay after for a social coffee and connect with fellow book lovers. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, sun protection and water for this enjoyable, wellbeing-focused community activity. Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Wednesday 25 March Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam 6pm Enjoy a night of live music and laid-back vibes at the Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam on Wednesday 25 March at the Seabreeze Hotel. Featuring acclaimed pianist Andrew Farrell, the evening kicks off with a performance before opening the stage for a community jam session. Free entry, with dinner bookings recommended. 72 Pacific Esplanade, Mackay Thursday 26 March Wine Society March Event 6:30pm Wine lovers are invited to the first Wine Society event of 2026 at The Dispensary Mackay on Thursday 26 March. Guests will enjoy an evening of exceptional wine tastings paired with a specially designed menu, hosted by Graeme Connors. Open to both new and returning guests, this relaxed event promises great wine, food and company. The Dispensary Mackay
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The PCYC’s Awakening Spirits 2026 moved audiences on Wednesday 11 March with touching stories told through dance. An audience of more than 1000 was drawn to watch 200 performers in a sold-out session at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre. Awakening Spirits is an annual performance that brings together young people from 13 schools across Mackay, who take part in PCYC's Cultural Arts in Dance program. Since beginning in 2022, the audience has rocketed from just 175 people to a sold-out audience at the convention centre this year. The piece performed was ‘The Waterhole’, a concept and story developed by PCYC Queensland’s First Nations Coordinator and the man behind Cultural Arts In Dance, Patrick Thaiday. It is inspired by the magical stories of The Myths and Legends of the Torres Strait, a book written by the late Margaret Lawrie. The story begins with Tilly, a white sulphur-crested cockatoo, who watches as a plume of smoke rises from the canopy of the Australian outback bush lands. Indigenous warriors and hunters from communities conduct a cultural burn – a land management practice refined over thousands of years. From her vantage point, Tilly observes the hunters moving alongside the fire’s perimeter, tracking animals displaced by its flames. As the story goes on, the waterhole, long a point of convergence for countless species, begins to change. Tilly notices a dark, viscous substance appearing beneath the surface. Drawn by concern she descends to investigate. As her feet touch the water, the substance adheres to her feathers releasing harsh toxic fumes that engulf her feet. She takes flight only to be flipped over by the weight of her wings. Her bright plumage darkens rapidly, and her beak blackens under the spreading poison. When Tilly rises again, she is no longer the white cockatoo she once was. Transformed by the dark waters, she takes form of a willy wagtail – a creature associated with omens, messages, and transitions. This metamorphosis positions her within a larger conflict, linking her fate to forces that extend far beyond the waterholes edge. Now known as Willy the Wagtail, she becomes a bearer of warnings and stories, navigating a world where ancient myth and emerging threats collide. When the story of ‘The Waterhole’ ends, all performers returned to perform a choreographed dance to The Seekers song, I am Australian. We are one, but we are many And from all the lands on earth we come We'll share a dream and sing with one voice "I am, you are, we are Australian" The bright smiles, excitement, and emotion from the performers did not leave many dry eyes in the auditorium; the room filling with a feeling: this is what we want our Australia to be. Contributed with thanks to PCYC Queensland’s First Nations State Partnerships Manager Michael Cedar 1-4 - Spirits were high as Mackay’s young dancing stars took to the stage. Photos supplied.
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Follow the Sun’ to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music Xavier Rudd, Mental as Anything, The Whitlams and more on first lineup announcement for November 2026 The call is out for fans of Xavier Rudd to ‘Follow the Sun’ to the 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music from November 6-8. Set to arrive straight from a European festival tour, the popular Australian singer-songwriter says in addition to his much-loved catalogue of hits, a few surprises are in store for the Whitsunday audience, hinting: “There will be some new music at this show, which will be played for the first time in Australia”. Having visited Airlie Beach briefly on previous Australian tours, Rudd is already familiar with the region’s scenic beauty, but this will be his first time playing its signature event, dubbed a ‘party in paradise’ and the ‘ultimate music holiday’. “From the photos I’ve seen, the festival setting is amazing,” he said. “My music is definitely a celebration of our natural world, so a place like Airlie feels especially aligned with songs like ‘Follow the Sun’. “These are the kinds of shows I love, and hopefully, weather permitting, we can actually pull down the tent and play under the stars!” Equally as famous for his unwavering commitment to social and environmental activism as he is for his extraordinary gifts as a musician, the significance of playing at a destination known as the ‘Heart of the Great Barrier Reef’ isn’t lost on Rudd. “I’ve been lucky to witness some of the good work that people are doing in the world of reef regeneration and that’s inspiring,” he said. “Hopefully we can continue down that path.” Also urging festivalgoers to ‘Live it Up’ in Airlie Beach is beloved Australian band Mental As Anything, whose performance will form part of a historic 50th anniversary tour, comprising a limited number of exclusive festival appearances and select metropolitan headline shows. Original member and iconic pop artist, Reg Mombassa, is promising fans a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience the band’s timeless hits live once more, and celebrate their unique blend of songwriting, artistry, and performance flair. “We’re known for being a party band, so the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is a perfect fit,” he said. In total agreeance that there’s ‘No Aphrodisiac’ quite like it are The Whitlams, whose frontman Tim Freedman says the band is thrilled to be one of the festival’s headliners for 2026. “I’ve been wanting to return to the Whitsundays for decades and now we have the chance,” he said, adding: “it’s a great line-up, music lifts the soul, and we rock!” Other additions to the first line-up release include The Radiators, Adam Harvey, 19-Twenty, Skinny Living (UK), Little Quirks, The Mason Rack Band, The Wayward Suns, Loonaloop, Salt & Steel and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2025 Passport to Airlie competition winners Monroe. Tickets are on sale now at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au costing $325 for a three-day pass, or $1100 for a VIP package, both including entry to the opening and after parties that bookend the main event. Ends Media Enquiries: media@airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au / 0402 126 461
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On Monday 16th March, North Queensland–raised Judah Kelly attended the 98th Academy Awards in Los Angeles, where the short film he starred in, The Singers, was awarded an Oscar. The film tied for the win with another short film, in an Oscars occurrence that whilst rare, is indeed possible. This is a huge achievement that represents years of hard work, building craft and nurturing talent; Judah has no doubt made the community incredibly proud. Born in Townsville, Judah attended school in Bowen where he took part in various school choirs, an experience that inspired his musicianship and developed his performance capabilities. He continued his secondary education in Mackay before attending the Junior Academy of Country Music in Tamworth (NSW). Judah auditioned for the X Factor in 2012 and 2014. Despite not finding success, he was not deterred, deciding to audition for The Voice in 2017. After singing ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ in a blind audition he made it through the finals, where he became the official winner of the sixth season. His newest achievement is receiving the Oscar as one of the stars of short film The Singers, which received an award for Best Live Action Short at 98th Academy Awards. Directed by filmmaker Sam Davis, the film is an 18-minute musical comedy which centres around a spontaneous singing competition that breaks out amongst a group of random patrons in a dive bar. The film is based on the 1850 Ivan Turgenev story of the same name. Prior to the academy awards, the film had already won 35 awards across 50 film festivals in 2025. Judah’s inclusion in the film came out of a unique casting process. Rather than hiring actors through traditional means, filmmaker Sam Davis spent months scouring the internet for authentic voices he believed would bring the story to life. As a result, Judah was sought out for his raw vocal talent. “At first they emailed me to ask me to be in the film and I don’t act so I thought it was just a scam”, Judah said in an interview to Channel Nine’s Today Show prior to the ceremony. “They were very persistent with getting me to act. Then I found out everyone was a first-time actor and we all thought it was a scam. It turned out they did want us for a film – it’s about men and vulnerability”. Following the victory, Judah took to Instagram to express his joy. “We don’t even know how to act. Our film just won an Oscar!” The film tied with another short feature marking only the seventh time in Oscars’ history that a category closed with two winners. This is a fantastic achievement, and Judah should be incredibly proud of his efforts. He has certainly made communities across Bowen and Mackay immensely proud. Captions Judah Kelly, local legend fresh from Oscar win. Photo sourced: Facebook
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Every love story deserves to be told beautifully, and for more than four decades, Starcut Flowers has been doing exactly that, bringing romance to life for couples across Mackay and the surrounding regions.
From engagements and intimate elopements to lavish wedding celebrations, the journey to “I do” can be both exhilarating and overwhelming. With decades of experience in the wedding industry, the team at Starcut Flowers understands how to navigate every detail with calm precision, creative confidence, and genuine care.
Selecting florals is one part of the puzzle, but entrusting a team who can seamlessly bring your vision to life is what truly elevates the day. Starcut Flowers offers couples reassurance, with decades of experience, and a refined one-stop-shop approach, allowing the bride and groom to relax and savour the moments that matter most.
Each bouquet, ceremony installation, and reception detail is thoughtfully tailored to reflect the unique story of the couple at its heart. No two weddings are ever the same, and neither are their designs – whether soft and romantic, modern and minimalist, or lush and abundant.
Couples are guided from the initial consultation through to the very end with warmth and professionalism. Beyond florals, Starcut Flowers also provides styling, hire décor, and furniture, ensuring every element works together in perfect harmony.
With a strong connection to locally grown blooms and an abounding passion for the wedding industry, Starcut Flowers doesn’t simply decorate weddings. They create atmosphere, emotion, and unforgettable moments, destined to bloom!
www.starcutflowers.com.au
It’s not every day Mackay motorists expect to share the road with a horse, but last week, locals were treated to a sight straight out of a country comedy.
A Palomino horse was spotted on the loose, wearing a coat and making a stylish dash through the Gooseponds and surrounding streets.
One local motorist stepped into the role of unlikely hero, later taking to a community page to explain the unusual driving behaviour witnessed by many commuters.
“Apologies to everyone I just cut off, stopped in front of and drove radically around the Gooseponds and surrounding streets… I was helping some poor lady find her run away horse. We can confirm Makybe diva has been found!"
The post quickly trotted its way through local feeds, delivering laughs alongside reassurance that the well-travelled horse had been safely found.
For those who witnessed a coat-clad horse, a determined woman in riding boots, or some questionable early-morning manoeuvres, Mackay can rest easy knowing it was all in the name of a good cause, and a very memorable morning!
Photo source: Triple M Mackay & The Whitsundays
Film & Arts Mackay is proud to have assisted one of our local filmmakers in their quest to get their story to a wider audience.
Former Mackay local Fergus Gregg’s ROAD TO THE NORTH was screened as part of our Mackay International Film Festival program in 2025 and is now available for free on SBS On Demand. This fascinating documentary journeys through northern Japan, retracing the historic paths of poet Matsuo Basho, master of Haiku, as Gregg marches alongside locals in a vibrant celebration of heritage, culture and community. Catch it free on SBS on Demand: Watch Road to the North | Stream free on SBS On Demand.
Film & Arts Mackay kicks off 2026 with a diverse and thought-provoking program designed to entertain, challenge and connect audiences.
Opening with the hilarious Irish comedy FOUR MOTHERS on 6th February, Film & Arts Mackay is inviting members and film lovers back to Friday nights at the Cook Theatre at CQU in Ooralea for another year of world-class cinema and community connection.
The first three films of the year are:
For more information about membership and prices, please visit our website: Film & Arts Mackay or contact us at filmartsmackay@outlook.com.
Images supplied
Friday 16th January
Crochet and Conversation
9am
Drop in for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee, and conversation with the friendly Northern Beaches community at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own crochet tools or borrow from the communal box. Open to everyone—crafters, beginners, or anyone who enjoys coffee and connection. Enjoy working on individual or community projects while soaking up the beauty of the Esplanade. No RSVP needed—just come along and support the cafe.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade
Friday Flow
5pm
The River of Life Festival Association invites the community to a fun, interactive music experience for all ages. Hosted by Jen and Karen from Rhythm Business alongside Margy and Jamesley, first-timers can explore rhythm and find their voice. Families can enjoy free children’s activities including arts and crafts and an air track gymnastic mat, while food and drinks are available for purchase. Everyone is welcome to come along, join in the fun, and celebrate music and creativity together.
Bluewater Quay
Saturday 17th January
Girls & Women - Swans Come and Try
9.30am
Girls and women of all ages are invited to the Swans’ Come & Try AFL Day. Whether it’s your first kick or a return to footy, enjoy a fun, relaxed session with skill stations, games, prizes, and support from Swans players and coaches. A free sausage sizzle, drink, and raffle ticket are included on entry. Come solo or bring friends and family for a morning of strong women, good vibes, and great footy at Rogers Oval, East Mackay, Saturday 17th, 9:30–11am.
Rogers Oval, East Mackay
Come & Try Table Tennis
9.30am
The community is invited to a free Come & Try Table Tennis day, perfect for beating the heat in a fully air-conditioned hall. Open to kids, adults, families, and first-timers, the day encourages everyone to turn up, have a hit, and enjoy the fun—no experience required. The event includes free entry, a sausage sizzle, and the chance to take on Bouncer the Robot. Held Saturday 17 January 2026 from 9:30am to 2:30pm at 76 Bridge Road, South Mackay.
76 Bridge Road, South Mackay
Sunday 18th January
Free Choccie Milk Run 5km or 10km
5.15am
Early risers are invited to the free Choccie Milk Run with a twist, a fun and inclusive 5km or 10km handicap event open to all abilities. Participants can arrive from 5.15am for a 5.30am start, with first-timers starting on scratch. A relaxed, free run or walk option is also available from 5.30am on the course. Choose one lap for 5km or two laps for 10km and enjoy a social, welcoming start to the day.
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club
Wednesday 21st January
Printbank Exhibition Artists’ Talk
5.30pm
Artspace Mackay invites the community to a free artist talk with members of Printbank Mackay, exploring their printmaking practice, collaborative journey, and new exhibition Coastal Imprints. Celebrating 20 years of creative innovation, the exhibition features vibrant two-dimensional and sculptural works inspired by Mackay’s coastline. The session runs from 5:30–6:30pm on Wednesday 21 January 2026 at Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct, Gordon Street. Bookings are required for this free event.
Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct, Gordon Street
The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is set to bring a night of laughter to the Whitsundays when it hits the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Wednesday, the 22nd of April.
Showcasing a carefully curated line-up of comedy heavyweights and rising stars from Australia and around the world, the Roadshow delivers a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud experience packed into one side-splitting show. Audiences can expect a mix of sharp wit, bold storytelling and crowd-favourite performances that capture the spirit of the renowned Melbourne International Comedy Festival.
For almost 30 years, the Festival has toured nationally, bringing its signature humour to communities far and wide, and now local audiences will have the chance to experience the country’s largest comedy festival right in their own backyard.
The performance runs from 7.30pm to 9.30pm and is recommended for audiences aged 15 years and over. Attendees are advised the show may contain coarse language, adult themes and sexual references, with smoke or haze effects also used during the performance.
Accessible seating and Companion Card bookings can be arranged by contacting the Box Office on (07) 4945 0405.
Comedy fans are encouraged to gather their friends and secure tickets early for what promises to be a standout night of entertainment in Proserpine.
What: Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow
When: Wednesday, the 22nd of April
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
Friday 16 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm-10pm)
KCs: Michael Hayes (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: Simon Briley (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaeden McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
Saturday 17 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Lisa Hunt (2pm-5:30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm-10pm)
KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ (1pm - 5pm)
Sunday 18 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Lisa Hunt (2pm-5:30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6:30pm - 9:30pm)
KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: Ronny Crocker (4pm-8pm)
Sorrento: Simon Briley (4pm-7pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Pluto Tango (1pm - 5pm)
Monday 19 January
KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
Tuesday 20 January
KCs: Retro Joe (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
Wednesday 21 January
KCs: Chris Boorof (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
Thursday 22 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6:30pm - 9:30pm)
KCs: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
January
17 & 18 Lisa Hunt - Forever Soul, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
22 Six the Musical Live, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 2pm - 3:45pm
24 North Queensland Cowboys V Mackay Cutters, Whitsunday Sports Park, 6:30am - 8:30am
24 & 25 Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Swanee and Alan Barnes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
24 The Corsairs Name Day featuring YUSSI, Boatys Airlie Beach, from 9pm
26 Aussie Day at the Club, Club Whitsunday, 11am - 2pm
26 Australia Day at the Grand View, Grand View Hotel, 11am - 8pm
26 Australia Day Fun Family Day, Queens Beach Hotel, from 12pm
26 Australia Day at the Met, Hotel Metropole Proserpine, from 12pm
26 Australia Day and Citizenship Ceremony at Bowen PCYC
26 The Wizards of OZ Australia Day, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm - 6pm
31 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
February
1 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm
7 Galentine's Day, Queens Beach Hotel, 12pm - 4pm
7 Bustamento Intrepid Adventure Tour, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
8 One Love - The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am
14 & 15 Whole Lotta Rosie, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
A celebration of Australian rock royalty is set to take over Airlie Beach, with two huge afternoons of live music featuring some of the country’s most loved anthems and familiar names.
Gold Chisel plus Power & The Passion – The Australian Midnight Oil Tribute Show will headline a massive weekend of entertainment, joined by special guests John Swan, better known as Swanee, and Alan Barnes.
Leading the charge is Gold Chisel, who will deliver a high-energy tribute to Cold Chisel with a setlist packed full of classics including Khe Sanh, When the War Is Over, Cheap Wine, Flame Trees, You Got Nothing I Want and Choir Girl, along with plenty more fan favourites. Gold Chisel are highly acclaimed and both Alan Barnes and Swanee, brothers of Cold Chisel frontman Jimmy Barnes have nothing but praise for the tribute band. Alan even knows Gold Chisel lead singer Andy well.
Sharing the stage will be Power & The Passion – The Australian Midnight Oil Tribute Show, bringing the unmistakable sound and political punch of Midnight Oil to life. Audiences can expect to hear iconic tracks such as Power and the Passion, US Forces, Dreamworld, King of the Mountain, Forgotten Years, Beds Are Burning and Blue Sky Mine.
Adding a unique family connection to the weekend, Swanee and Alan Barnes will also take to the stage to perform a mix of original material and classic hits. They will also join Gold Chisel during their set, teaming up on stage for a few crowd-pleasing songs.
Swanee will also be performing some hits from his newest album 'Believe'. On this album is the track titled 'Brother of Mine', a moving song featuring Swanee, Alan Barnes, and Jimmy Barnes. The brother-trio pour their heart and emotion into the song. It may be played at the event, you will have to be there to find out.
With two free shows scheduled, the event promises a relaxed, high-impact celebration of Australian rock across two afternoons.
The performances will take place on Saturday, the 24th of January, and Sunday, the 25th of January, from 2pm to 5.30pm, offering music lovers the chance to soak up some of the best Australian rock ever written in a live setting.
That's not all! On Australia Day the bands plus Swanee and Alan Barnes hit the stage again in a full day celebration, from midday to six.
WHAT: Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Special Guests Swanee and Alan Barnes
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, the 24th of April & Sunday the 25th of April (2pm - 5.30pm) Plus Special Event Australia Day – Monday January 26 12pm – 6pm
Friday 9th January
Crochet and Conversation
9am
Locals are invited to drop in for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation with a friendly group of Northern Beaches residents at Beachfront Bar and Restaurant on the Bucasia Esplanade. Everyone is welcome, from experienced crafters to complete beginners, or those simply keen to enjoy a coffee and a chat. Bring your own crochet tools or borrow from the communal box, then settle in, spot the yarn and join the table.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia Esplanade
Saturday 10th January
Weekly Falun Gong (Chi Gong) Exercise and Meditation
9am
Falun Dafa (Falun Gong) exercise sessions offer a gentle, accessible way to support a healthy body and peaceful mind. The practice features five easy-to-learn exercises and is suitable for people of all ages. Sessions are always free of charge and no bookings are required. Published teachings are available to guide practitioners, with books translated into 45 languages. Those with questions are welcome to send a message via Facebook.
Monday 12th January
Seniors Mat Yoga
9am
Seniors Matwork and Standing Yoga welcomes those aged 55+ to improve flexibility, balance, strength and relaxation. Led by experienced physiotherapy and yoga specialist Cait, classes run 9.30–10.30am (meet & greet at 9am Week 1) with tea, coffee and light refreshments afterwards—a perfect opportunity to connect with others. Cost is $10 per session. Those interested in attending are encouraged to join in, with registration online via Humanitix, by email at nbcweek@gmail.com, or by calling 0417 275 321
Northern Beaches Community Hall
Tuesday 13th January
Street Science Spectacular
1pm
The Street Science Spectacular hits Centre Court outside Myer from 13–22 January 2026, offering high-energy science shows and hands-on drop-in workshops for the whole family. Daily sessions are free and no bookings are required, making it easy for locals to join in the fun. Perfect for curious minds of all ages, this interactive event promises experiments, excitement, and learning in a lively, family-friendly environment—don’t miss the chance to explore science in action these school holidays!
Caneland Centre Centre Court, (outside Myer)
Thursday 15th January
Mackay Harbour Mums Circle
9am
join Harbour Circle mornings at Mackay Harbour, near Riley’s BBQ, 67 E Point Drive. Enjoy a relaxed beachside morning with your little ones, grab a coffee, and connect with other local mums while the children play. There’s no sign-in or schedule—just a welcoming, friendly space to chat, share experiences, and enjoy community connection. Perfect for anyone looking to meet other new mums and make the most of mornings by the water.
Near Riley’s BBQ, 67 E Point Dr, Mackay Harbour
Gabrielle McCarthy entered Season 7 of Love Island Australia as a Bombshell, and left the Villa as a nation-wide fan favourite, capturing the hearts of viewers with her bubbly personality and infectious energy.
After growing up in Mackay, 21-year-old Gabby moved to the sun-soaked shores of the Gold Coast to peruse her career as an influencer and content creator where she shares videos and photos of her life across multiple social media channels.
Gabby was flown out of the country to indulge in a European-Summer, Love Island Australia style, in August of 2025, after being cast in the show’s seventh consecutive season.
Season 7 of Love Island Australia was filmed in Mallorca, Spain and made its debut on the 27th of October 2025. Presented by Sophie Monk and comically narrated by Eoghan McDermott, the reality-cross-competition style television show involves several contestants who are searching for love over the course of the 29-episode season.
Contestants, also referred to as Islanders, must initially couple up with another Islander at the beginning of the season, however several re-couplings tend to take place as new contestants, known as Bombshells, enter the Villa. In the show’s grand finale, the winning couple, as determined by the votes of the public, typically take home $50,000 and of course, waves of exposure that often leads to brand deals and countless other opportunities.
Gabby entered the Villa as the season’s first Bombshell on day one and was the first Islander to quit the dating show solo, taking herself out of the $50,000 competition on episode 27 after spending 22 days in the Villa. It’s speculated that her split with her Love Island ex, Jotham Russell, heavily influenced her decision to leave after a surprise switch left Gabby single while Jotham re-coupled on day 15.
Throughout her time on the show, Gabby certainly left her mark, however, she was turning heads even before she entered the Love Island Villa and had over 141,000 followers on TikTok and approximately 86,000 on Instagram. Since her Spanish screentime, Gabby’s fanbase has skyrocketed to over 248,000 followers on Instagram, and 362,300 on TikTok.
Post-Villa, Gabby has continued to follow the flow of her rising fame, creating content with Love Island co-star, turned best friend, Yana Marks across her socials. Over her 27 episodes of airtime, Gabby racked up several iconic moments, including one on-screen altercation with a co-star that produced the now viral quote, “If you guys think I’m here for clout, I’ve already got the clout back home. Just so you know.”, which has been used in over 10,000 videos posted to TikTok.
Gabby has rapidly projected into the higher tiers of the Aussie Influencer space since leaving the Season 7 Love Island Australia Villa, and even though her screentime ended before the finale, her impact and influence has undeniably earnt her a place amongst this generation’s most iconic creators.
An immense talent is set to perform at the Airlie Beach Hotel. Internationally renowned American singer Lisa Hunt leads with an impressive resume, designed to leave any music fan amazed. Initally beginning as a gospel singer, Lisa Hunt has sold more than a million albums as both a singer and songwriter, having performed across the globe for many decades.
She has performed along the likes of Australian legends Jimmy Barnes, Diesel, Midnight Oil as well international superstars Eric Clapton, James Brown, Dionne Warwick, Brian May, Randy Crawford, Joe Cocker, Miles Davis and Andrea Bocelli.
With an extensive history of performing alongside some of the world's greatest artists, the Airlie Beach Hotel is absolutely thrilled to have her onboard to perform a series of FREE shows on January 17th and 18th from 2pm onwards.
Get on down to the Airlie Beach Hotel for some spellbinding sets of tightly crafted, well performed eclectic music by Australia's leading soul singer. There will be old school gospel, RnB Blues, Motown and much more. Her powerful magnetic voice will provide the perfect ambience for a beautiful Whitsundays evening. Prepare for style, talent and lots of fun.
This is not a show you will want to miss.
WHAT: Forever Soul - Lisa Hunt, FREE Show
WHEN: Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th of January, 2pm Onwards
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
Photo sourced
January
10 Pets Domain Bowen Monthly Market, Pets Domain Bowen, 8am - 1pm
10 & 11 Queen Rhapsody, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
14 Community Disaster Information Session, Murroona Gardens Wellness Centre, 10am - 11am
17 & 18 Lisa Hunt - Forever Soul, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
22 Six the Musical Live, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 2pm - 3:45pm
24 North Queensland Cowboys V Mackay Cutters, Whitsunday Sports Park, 6:30am - 8:30am
24 & 25 Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Swanee, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
24 The Corsairs Name Day featuring YUSSI, Boatys Airlie Beach, from 9pm
26 Aussie Day at the Club, Club Whitsunday, 11am - 2pm
26 Australia Day at the Grand View, Grand View Hotel, 11am - 8pm
26 Australia Day Fun Family Day, Queens Beach Hotel, from 12pm
26 Australia Day at the Met, Hotel Metropole Proserpine, from 12pm
26 The Wizards of OZ Australia Day, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm - 6pm
31 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
February
1 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm
7 Galentine's Day, Queens Beach Hotel, 12pm - 4pm
7 Bustamento Intrepid Adventure Tour, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
8 One Love - The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am
14 & 15 Whole Lotta Rosie, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
19 The Amity Affliction National Tour, Magnums Hotel, from 7pm
28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm
Friday 9 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Nate Marks (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
Saturday 10 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Queen Rhapsody (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dave Johan (4pm - 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: DJ (1pm - 5pm)
Sunday 11 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Queen Rhapsody (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Noah Davis (1pm - 5pm)
Grand View Hotel: Matthew Vaughan (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)
Monday 12 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 7.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Pianoman (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)
Tuesday 13 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)
Wednesday 14 January
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Thursday 15 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
IMPULSE is set to light up Magnums with after-dark cabaret this New Year season.
Airlie Beach is in for a bold New Year treat as IMPULSE brings a high-energy cabaret experience to Magnums Hotel, transforming the popular venue into a fully seated theatre for a limited run of shows.
From the team that brought you NOSTALGIA, the eight-strong cast members have been rehearsing for the last six months to present this new and exciting cabaret show.
With an atmosphere inspired by late-night glamour and burlesque flair, IMPULSE promises a fast-paced evening of powerhouse performance, seductive choreography, and crowd-pleasing entertainment designed for an adult audience looking for something different after dark.
IMPULSE is going to be fast-paced, filled with back-to-back cabaret, burlesque and crowd moments, so the audience is constantly getting something new.
Hosted at Magnums IMPULSE offers a fully indoor, seated theatre-style event offering air-conditioned comfort, front-row VIP tables with grazing boxes, and a private bar open throughout the show, designed for relaxed viewing, easy drinks, and a premium guest experience.
The show runs for three nights only on December 30, January 1 and January 2, with doors opening ahead of the 7.30pm start time. With seating limited each night, organisers encourage locals and visitors to secure tickets online to avoid missing out.
IMPULSE will be staged at Magnums Hotel, Airlie Beach. Tickets are available now via the event’s online booking link.
https://www.universe.com/events/impulse-cabaret-show-tickets-1PTY0J
Wednesday 24 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Friday 26 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Simon Briley (4pm - 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)
Saturday 27 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 7.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: DJ Sugarlips (1pm - 5pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)
Sunday 28 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 7.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Pianoman (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Simon Briley (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)
Monday 29 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
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