Entertainment

Explore Nature's Wonders

Explore Nature's Wonders

The Pioneer Valley, a hidden gem west of Mackay, is a place where natural beauty meets untapped potential. From the lush subtropical rainforests to the wide paddocks of sugar cane swaying in the breeze, the valley offers a serene escape into nature's embrace. The Pioneer River meanders through this landscape, providing cool, invigorating spots for a refreshing dip, while the misty Eungella Range adds a touch of mystery and allure. This region, with its cascading waterfalls and boutique artisan businesses, is on the cusp of becoming a major tourism destination. Imagine luxury eco-resorts nestled within the rainforests, offering a retreat from the everyday, or vibrant markets showcasing the rich flavours and cultural heritage of the area. The Pioneer Valley is ready to welcome visitors seeking adventure, relaxation, and a taste of the great outdoors. With new businesses emerging, job opportunities increasing, and the community thriving, the Pioneer Valley is poised to take its place as a premier destination for those looking to explore Queensland’s natural beauty. Whether you're seeking a tranquil getaway or an exciting adventure, the Pioneer Valley is where the journey begins. CAPTION: The Pioneer Valley's stunning natural landscapes, from rainforest-clad mountains to the winding Pioneer River, continues to attract visitors and showcase the region's potential as a premier nature-based tourism destination

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A Bush Walk To Sparkle Falls

A Bush Walk To Sparkle Falls

On Sunday, botanical artist Kate Bruner lead the Mackay Bushwalkers’ Club weekly outing to a remote area of Finch Hatton Gorge, known as Sparkle Falls. Twelve members hiked up, up and away onto the western branch of Finch Hatton Creek. A very steep and steady trail took them to an outstanding lookout and the first of many beautiful waterfalls. As the group continued, they were treated to a succession of picturesque cascades, numerous creek crossings, and plenty of boulder hopping through the rugged creek bed. On arrival at Sparkle Falls a few adventurous souls braved the chilly waters for a refreshing swim, while others relaxed in the sunshine and soaked up the tranquil surroundings. A long lunch was enjoyed, followed by slow walk back. It was an excellent day in the bush, filled with breath taking scenery, good company and a diverse group of friendly hikers who made the experience all the more enjoyable. For more information about the club, phone 0429 363 929. Contributed with thanks to Coral and Carole.

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Mackay & Whitsunday Events Share In NAIDOC Week Funding Boost

Mackay & Whitsunday Events Share In NAIDOC Week Funding Boost

NAIDOC Week celebrations across Mackay and the Whitsundays will receive a funding boost this year, with three local events sharing in State Government grants to mark the 50th anniversary of the annual celebration. More than $170,000 has been allocated to 59 community-led events across Queensland through the NAIDOC Grants Program, with funding designed to support activities that celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, heritage and community connections. In the Mackay region, Mackay NAIDOC Incorporated received funding for its Street Parade and Family Fun Day in East Mackay, while the George Street Neighbourhood Centre Association secured support for its NAIDOC Week at The Neighbourhood Hub event. In the Whitsundays, Yooribaya Cultural Experiences Pty Ltd was awarded funding for its "Together by the Sea: NAIDOC 2026" celebration in Airlie Beach. National NAIDOC Week will be held from the 5th to the 12th of July under the theme "50 Years of Deadly", recognising half a century of celebrating and honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culture and achievements. Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Fiona Simpson said the grants helped communities deliver meaningful local celebrations. “As we celebrate Fifty Years of Deadly, our NAIDOC Grants not only pay respect to the strength of our Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples, but they also amplify the impact of community events,” Minister Simpson said. “It is inspiring to see communities from Brisbane to Bamaga committing to coming together during NAIDOC Week to recognise and celebrate the unique cultural heritage of our First Peoples. “The Government is a proud supporter of these community-led initiatives, which celebrate the rich 50-year history and traditions of the world’s oldest continuous living culture.” The grants program provides up to $2,500 for eligible events and activities, helping local organisers deliver community celebrations, cultural activities, yarning circles and family-friendly events during NAIDOC Week. This year's celebrations carry added significance as communities across Australia mark the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, reflecting on five decades of recognising and celebrating the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Minister Simpson said the grants supported practical outcomes at a community level. “The Crisafulli Government remains committed to practical support to deliver tangible outcomes for our Aboriginal peoples and our Torres Strait Islander peoples,” she said. Local residents are encouraged to take part in NAIDOC Week events across Mackay and the Whitsundays when celebrations begin in July. CAPTION: Mackay NAIDOC Incorporated's Street Parade and Family Fun Day is among local events receiving State Government funding ahead of this year's NAIDOC Week celebrations. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council

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WAITING FOR GOD BY MICHAEL AITKENS - KUCOM THEATRE REVIEW BY MIKI PONTING-BOYD

WAITING FOR GOD BY MICHAEL AITKENS - KUCOM THEATRE REVIEW BY MIKI PONTING-BOYD

Ohhh, I do love me a good bit of quirky Bri'ish (not a typo) theatre if I do say so myself. And Kucom's latest play - a delightful adaptation of a classic BBC sitcom - is a perfectly precise, profoundly polished and pleasing production, that would make the BBC proud! Waiting for God is full to the brim with quick wit, and witty quips, providing the audience with chuckles, guffaws and a rather loud "ha!" from me that may have been a snort - yes indeed, this play will have you grinning from ear to ear. If you know Director Bronwyn Grannall (and I do), you'll know she's got a delightful sense of humour, and this shines through in all facets - from the perfect casting to the set design and even the lighting (which I’m told is a brand new system at Kucom - very exciting!) Tessa King as Diana, shines with razor-sharp cleverness and surprising warmth, Sarah Menso as Jane brings a wonderfully awkward and delightful propriety to proceedings, and Hayden White as Harvey is the kind of character you'd love to give a gentle nudge off a cliff. Then there's David Goodwin as Geoffrey, whose characterisation and accent had me in absolute stitches, and Cheryl Obst, who stepped seamlessly between Sarah Chase, the Doctor, and stepped up as understudy for Andrew Obst as Rev Dennis Sparrow. Cheryl delivered each character with such distinct flair that you'd never know she was doing the work of three. Special mention to Jeany Elliott for her fab supporting characters! And, of course, praise to Geoff Stewart-McLean, who should really be on the stage (or TV) in London, as he always exceptionally embodies every character he plays. Waiting for God is sharp and funny, and carries some rather lovely themes about life, desire, and the very wonderful reminder that it is never, ever too late to find love - or not find it! Jolly good show Bronwyn and cast. 10/10 pearls clutched in absolute delight. Book your tickets now!!! Season dates: 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 June at 7.30pm, plus Sunday matinee 21 June at 2pm Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/waiting-for-god

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Happy Easter From Woolworths

Oz-E Wild Adventures Captures Australia After Dark

June 5, 2026

Dominick Hawkes, founder of Oz-E Wild Adventures, uses photography and videography to showcase Australia’s unique nocturnal wildlife. Photo source: Oz-E Wild Adventures

By Chelsea Ravizza

Inspired by the wildlife documentaries he watched growing up in Canada, Mackay’s Dominick Hawkes now spends his nights exploring the Australian bush in search of elusive native species to photograph through his wildlife platform, Oz-E Wild Adventures.

“The sudden shift from freezing Canadian winters to the vibrant, sun-drenched atmosphere of the Southern Hemisphere instantly opened my eyes and sparked a deep want for adventure,” Mr Hawkes said.

Driven by a fascination with the nocturnal world, Mr Hawkes ventures out after dark to capture some of Australia’s rarest and most elusive creatures in their natural habitats, from cryptic pythons to gliders and native reptiles rarely seen by most people.

Through his photography and videography, he hopes to inspire greater appreciation and understanding of Australia’s wildlife and the importance of protecting the habitats they rely on.

“Every habitat in Australia is vital because our ecosystems are deeply interconnected, and an incredible 87 per cent of our mammals and 93 per cent of our reptiles exist nowhere else on Earth,” he said.

“When deforestation occurs, it doesn’t just clear trees; it destroys ancient, irreplaceable evolutionary lineages and drives unique species toward extinction.”

Mr Hawkes said wildlife photography involved far more than simply waiting for the perfect shot, often requiring long hikes through the bush carrying equipment, tracking signs of animal activity and spending hours searching remote areas at night.

An Eungella Leaf tailed gecko captured under blacklight as featured on Oz-E Wild Adventures. Photo credit: Dominick Hawkes

“It’s trekking for miles with water and food while tracking signs of life in the bush,” he said.

“And sometimes it’s waking up the next morning only to find a hitchhiking tick you missed the night before — the price you pay for the adventure.”

Mr Hawkes said his passion for wildlife and conservation was also driven by his hopes for the future of his four-year-old daughter, Margaux, who he enjoys teaching about the animals and discoveries he encounters in the wild.

“I do have a beautiful four-year-old Australian daughter, Margaux, and I love teaching her about my findings and helping her appreciate nature and wildlife from a young age,” he said.

Mr Hawkes said he would also love the opportunity to turn his passion into meaningful conservation work in the future, whether through national parks, ranger work or working closely with regional communities.

“I’d love to get my foot in the door somewhere meaningful where I can work with communities and help look after national parks and our native wildlife,” he said.

Through Oz-E Wild Adventures, Mr Hawkes said his ultimate goal was to spark curiosity, respect and love for Australia’s wildlife and natural environment.

To see more of Dominick Hawkes’ wildlife photography and adventures, search Oz-E Wild Adventures across social media platforms.

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SEVENTY-FIVE YEARS LATER STILL FIRING ON

May 27, 2026

Main Street Fire Brigade Photos supplied

Today, we benefit from first-class emergency services such as fire and rescue - services that are easy to take for granted. Earlier last century, however, Proserpine residents had much less protection. That began to change seventy-five years ago with the arrival of the town’s first Chief Fire Officer.


In the first half of the twentieth century, there were two major fires in Proserpine’s Main Street. The first occurred in February 1928 in Mrs Deicke’s shops with almost all buildings being gutted. A bucket brigade with water from tanks from adjoining businesses, and hoses from the Palace Hotel and Proserpine Butchery Co prevented further damage.


In the 1940s, Proserpine still depended on rainwater tanks and wells. Pleas to remove grass and domestic rubbish were ignored. Another disaster was waiting to happen. Prompted by memories of the devastating 1928 fire, a public meeting was called for the purpose of taking steps to prevent and control fires in the town. However, it was reported that when the formation of a fire brigade was introduced, “nil expressed their willingness to join the voluntary fire brigade.”  


Eight months later, on July 13, 1946, the Proserpine Fire Brigade held its inaugural meeting with eight community members charged with lobbying government and organising the formation of an official fire brigade. Due to water shortages, their plans to buy a tank and trailer were delayed. The committee recessed and fire prevention rules were introduced. But these were not sufficient to avert another devastating fire.

 

At 1am on October 19, 1949 a second disaster occurred. With no official brigade or reticulated water, about 100 people, some in pyjamas, battled the blaze for two hours using buckets, boilers, basins and tubs. They smashed open rainwater tanks and coupled hoses to windmill tanks before finally bringing the fire under control at 3 am.


Almost twelve months after this second calamity, in September 1950, common sense finally prevailed. Council advertised for a part time fire chief and land for a fire station and residence was purchased in Main Street. There was still no reticulated water so an 800-gallon tank mounted on a truck was purchased and supplemented by tanks belonging to local businesses and the Sugar Mill. An alarm siren was to be installed on a 30-foot pole at the CFO’s house.
 

New fire and rescue centre Photos supplied


On 1 June 1951, Mr Chris Thieme, Proserpine’s first Chief Fire Officer arrived from Tully. In a short time, seven local auxiliary fire fighters signed up. Uniforms were to be supplied, and firefighters paid for attending fires. That year, the brigade bought its first fire truck, now on display at the Proserpine Historical Museum.

A temporary building was erected then three years later, in 1953, approval was granted for a permanent one-storey station in Main Street which was completed in 1954. Proserpine did not gain reticulated water until 1957 when the water tower was finished.


The Proserpine Fire Brigade acquired a second truck in 1975 and still operates two vehicles today. The unit is staffed by twenty auxiliary firefighters, with the last permanent firefighter transferring to the Airlie centre in 2004/05.

The Proserpine Fire Brigade Board controlled the fire service until June 30, 1990, when the state government took over the running of all fire brigades. With the opening of a station in Airlie Beach in 1986, the board changed its name to the Whitsunday Fire Brigade Board.  

The Main Street fire station served the district for more than six decades before closing in 2018 when the new Disaster and Emergency Centre opened in Hinschen Street.

Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum.

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Join the Celebration: Community Gallery Opening Date Set

June 5, 2026

For many of the artists featured in the inaugural exhibition, the opening represents a long-awaited opportunity to strengthen the visibility and sustainability of the arts in the Whitsundays.

Creative Connections Whitsundays (CCW) is inviting the community to celebrate the official opening of the Community Gallery, the first dedicated community art gallery in the Whitsunday region.

The Gallery will open at 6pm on Thursday 4th June, featuring works from more than 20 regional artists across painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and contemporary practice.

The opening marks the beginning of a new creative chapter for the region, establishing a permanent space for exhibitions, workshops, events, and artistic connection in the heart of Proserpine.

As a new cultural hub for the region, CCW's Community Gallery has been created to celebrate local artists and community creativity while providing a welcoming place to showcase local talent, foster connection, and grow the Whitsundays’ cultural life.

This represents an important step forward for the region’s creative community, creating a permanent home where artists can be seen, supported, and celebrated year-round.

CCW has acknowledged the “generous support” of local sponsors, supporters, volunteers, and community partners whose contributions have helped bring the gallery project to life; naming Whitsunday Regional Council, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm, Green Energy Technology, Sunbird Electrical, Filby’s Motors, and Bunnings Warehouse.

The opening night will bring together artists, community members, business leaders, government representatives, and supporters to celebrate the launch of a new cultural space designed for the whole Whitsunday region.

The event is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to RSVP by Tuesday 2nd June at creativeconnectionswhitsunday.com

What: Community Gallery Official Opening
When: 6:00pm–8:00pm, Thursday 4th June 2026
Where: 192 Main Street, Proserpine
RSVP:  by Tuesday 2nd June, creativeconnectionswhitsunday.com

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Creative Column – May 29th

May 27, 2026

I am saddened to announce that this is my last week working as a journalist on-the-ground in the Whitsundays for Life Publishing. Next week I will return home to Melbourne. These decisions are not made easily. I have loved the region for its beauty, and the community has been so gracious and welcoming. This has been a wonderful opportunity that I certainly won’t forget.  

At certain points in our life we have to make tough decisions that come with a lot of apprehension and doubt but ultimately are important for our wellbeing.  

I would like to thank my fellow editorial colleagues– Jacob, Victoria, Chelsea and Hannah – all rockstar journalists who inspire me through their work ethic and literary talent. I would like to give praise and thanks to our new editorial team leader – Suzanna McLoughlin who I know is going to do wonderful things for Life Publishing.  

Thank you to all staff at Life Publishing Group -- Trish, Trisha, Georgia, Taylor, Camilla, Ruandi, Tania, Sherie, Jess, Jack and Marc. Thank you to Bec and Douth for building such a brilliant business that continues to inspire the region. Above all, thank you to Rachael for being an incredible mentor and leader.  

Although my stint at Life Publishing was not the longest – it is certainly an experience that I will hold close to my heart.  

This week’s poem is from English literary icon Lord Byron. It is called ‘So We’ll Go No More a Roving.’  

Poet’s Corner

So We’ll Go No More A Roving by Lord Byron

So, we'll go no more a roving

   So late into the night,

Though the heart be still as loving,

   And the moon be still as bright.

For the sword outwears its sheath,

   And the soul wears out the breast,

And the heart must pause to breathe,

   And love itself have rest.

Though the night was made for loving,

   And the day returns too soon,

Yet we'll go no more a roving

   By the light of the moon.

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Show Season Set To Bring Community Spirit To The Whitsundays

May 27, 2026

Show season is returning to the Whitsundays, with Proserpine’s Show Whitsunday and the Bowen Show set to celebrate local agriculture, entertainment and community spirit this June. Photo source: Show Whitsunday

The Whitsundays’ much-loved show season is nearly here, with Show Whitsunday in Proserpine and the Bowen Show gearing up to deliver two huge weeks of country fun, community spirit and classic show-day excitement.

Show Whitsunday returns to the Proserpine Showgrounds on 19th and 20th for its 113th annual event, continuing a tradition that has brought locals together for more than a century.

This year’s show promises all the favourites, from livestock judging, equestrian events and woodchopping to baking, arts, crafts and photography displays, alongside the always-popular Side Show Alley, fireworks and live entertainment.

The event remains one of the region’s biggest community celebrations and a proud showcase of local industries, particularly sugar cane, with Canegrowers celebrating 100 years in 2026.

After months of wet weather, volunteers have already rolled up their sleeves to prepare the grounds, with organisers encouraging locals to get involved and be part of the long-running tradition.

Just days later, the Bowen Show will take over on Tuesday, 23rd June, bringing another packed day of rides, arena action, pavilion displays, food and family-friendly entertainment.

Bowen Show organisers say the annual event is all about celebrating local talent, agriculture and the strong community spirit that keeps country shows thriving year after year.

Residents are encouraged to mark your calendars and support the region’s iconic agricultural shows! For more information, visit showwhitsunday.com.au and bowenshow.com.au.

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GIG GUIDE – May 29th

May 27, 2026

Friday 29 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)

Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)

KCs: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

Saturday 30 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Creedence (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Grandview Hotel: The B Doubles (from 8pm)

KCs: Flying Double Front Kick (from 8pm)

Sunday 31 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Creedence (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

Grandview Hotel: Zed Charles (1pm – 5pm)

KCs: Michael Hayes (from 8pm)

Monday 1 June

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Tuesday 2 June

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Wednesday 3 June

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Thursday 4 June

Airlie Beach: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm – 7pm)

KCs: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

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The Blues Brothers Are Getting The Band Back Together This June

May 27, 2026

Get ready to dust off your sunglasses, straighten your tie, and shake your tail feather, because one of the most energetic tribute performances around is arriving for a huge weekend of live music this June.

Across Saturday 6th June and Sunday 7th June, audiences will be transported straight into the world of Jake and Elwood Blues as The Soul Men present their acclaimed Blues Brothers Tribute Show — a high-energy performance celebrating the legendary soul, rhythm and blues sounds made famous by the iconic film and soundtrack.

More than just a cover band, The Soul Men recreate the unmistakable atmosphere and charisma of the original Blues Brothers experience with incredible attention to detail. Featuring a powerhouse eight-piece band complete with dynamic horn and rhythm sections, the show delivers all the big hits audiences know and love with the same raw energy and infectious groove that made the originals famous.

“When you come to one of our shows, it is always interactive,” said band leader Greg Hill who plays Blues Brother Jake.  

“Every set we teach the audience how to dance and how to sing a song with us.”

From the moment the band hits the stage, it’s a full-scale musical production. Expect choreographed dance routines, scripted comedy, authentic costumes, and non-stop crowd interaction as Jake and Elwood take audiences on their “mission from God” through a catalogue of classic soul and blues anthems.

“The music is fantastic and it’s ingrained in our culture. The music is everywhere. It’s in movies, commercials. It’s even in the background when your favourite team scores a try.”

Entry is completely free, making it the perfect excuse to gather friends, enjoy some live music, and experience one of the most entertaining tribute acts on the circuit.

What:

The Soul Men – Blues Brothers Tribute Show, FREE EVENT

When:

Saturday 6th June & Sunday 7th June
2:00pm – 5:30pm

Where:

Airlie Beach Hotel

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What’s On From the 29th of May

June 5, 2026

May

29 Speed Networking, Lumos Café, 7:30-8:30am

29 WSPN BBQ, Shirtfront Solutions Parking, 6.30am

30 Welcome Whales, Airlie Beach Foreshore, 4.30pm

June  

3 Social Seniors, Cannonvale, 9.30am

6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Songwriting Summit, 9.30am-4pm

6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Concert & Conversation, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6pm - 8pm

9 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

16 Collinsville Open Cut Free Event

18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am

23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

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End the Day in Style: The Closing Function at Elementa Whitsundays

May 27, 2026

The Whitsundays Wedding Trail on Sunday 14th June doesn't end when the venues close their doors. For couples who want to make the most of the day, the closing function at Elementa Whitsundays is where things wrap up in the best possible way.

Running from 3:30pm to 5:30pm, the event gives Trail participants the chance to slow down, take stock of the day, and continue the conversations that matter — all in one of the Whitsundays' most beautifully positioned venues. Elementa Whitsundays is a full-service wedding property offering ceremony, reception and accommodation in a setting that looks out over Airlie Beach and Whitsunday islands. The closing function is designed to give couples a genuine experience of what Elementa delivers in a hospitality context, and it makes a compelling case.

Guests are welcomed with canapés that showcase the range of Elementa's in-house catering. These aren't token finger food - they are a deliberate sample of what the venue can produce for a wedding, giving couples a real sense of the food experience they could offer their own guests. It is the kind of detail that makes a venue visit feel concrete rather than hypothetical.

The evening also features a display from 74 Islands, Elementa's onsite boutique distillery. For couples weighing up a venue that offers something beyond the standard, the presence of a working craft distillery on the property is a genuine point of difference. The closing event gives guests the chance to learn more about it firsthand.

A cash bar serves cocktails throughout the two hours, and the setting - drinks in hand, the sun dropping over the water - is a fitting close to what is a full and inspiring day. Suppliers who have been present across the Trail will also continue to be available at the function, making it as much an opportunity for ongoing planning conversations as it is a celebration.

The closing event ticket is $30 per person, inclusive of all canapés, the 74 Islands display and cash bar access, and can be added at registration via weddingswhitsundays.com/whitsundays-wedding-trail/

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Take Off: Win a Helicopter Flight to The Creek Whitsundays

May 27, 2026

There are plenty of reasons to get your tickets for the Whitsundays Wedding Trail. But this one might be the most memorable.

Every couple who registers for the Trail is entered into the draw to win a helicopter flight with Airlie Beach Helicopters - and not just any flight. The winner will arrive at The Creek Whitsundays by helicopter on Sunday 14th June, beginning their Trail day in a way that very few wedding planning experiences could ever match.

The Creek Whitsundays is one of the Trail's standout venues. A ceremony and reception property, it offers couples a setting that balances the region's natural beauty with the infrastructure required for a polished event. Arriving by helicopter - above the coastline, over the Coral Sea, and down to the venue itself - is a preview of the kind of extraordinary moments the Whitsundays makes possible. For couples dreaming of a wedding that feels genuinely different, it is a hard image to shake.

Airlie Beach Helicopters is one of the region's most experienced aerial operators, running scenic and charter flights throughout the Whitsundays for travellers and event guests alike. A helicopter transfer to a wedding venue is one of those details that sets the tone for an entire celebration, and the flight on offer gives the prize winner a first-hand taste of what that experience looks like.

The draw is open to all couples who register for the Trail before Sunday 7th June. Registration is free for the self-drive option, with bus loop access at $10 per person and the Elementa closing event at $30 per person. Every registration - regardless of ticket type -qualifies for the prize draw.

For couples who have been considering attending, the prize is a timely reason to lock in their place. The Trail itself is already worth a day out: six venues, curated suppliers at every stop, two bus loops, and a sunset closing event overlooking the water. A helicopter arrival is simply the kind of beginning the Whitsundays does best.

Register now at weddingswhitsundays.com/whitsundays-wedding-trail/

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Weddings Whitsundays: Your Complete Guide to Planning a Dream Destination Wedding

May 27, 2026

The Whitsundays has long been recognised as one of Australia’s most breathtaking wedding destinations. From crystal-clear waters and tropical islands to coastal towns overlooking the Coral Sea, the region offers an unforgettable backdrop for couples wanting something truly special. Yet for many planning from interstate or overseas, understanding where to begin can feel overwhelming.

That’s exactly why Weddings Whitsundays was created.

Designed as a central hub for couples planning weddings or vow renewals in the region, the platform brings together trusted venues, local suppliers, practical planning advice, and destination insights all in one place. Its goal is simple: to make organising a Whitsundays wedding easier, clearer, and far less stressful.

At the centre of the platform is an extensive collection of venue listings showcasing the diversity of the Whitsundays. Couples can explore everything from secluded island retreats and luxury resorts to waterfront venues, countryside properties, and intimate tropical settings. Each listing provides the key information couples need when narrowing down options, along with direct contact details to connect with venues directly.

The vendor directory has been built with the same focus on convenience and clarity. Local photographers, celebrants, florists, stylists, caterers, transport providers, accommodation specialists and more are featured throughout the platform. These are professionals who understand the unique logistics involved in destination weddings and have experience helping celebrations run seamlessly across the Whitsundays region.

Beyond venues and suppliers, Weddings Whitsundays also offers practical planning resources tailored specifically to destination weddings. From understanding Australian marriage requirements to coordinating guests travelling from interstate, the guides address the questions couples genuinely ask when planning a wedding away from home. The advice is grounded in local knowledge and designed to help couples feel informed from the beginning.

One of the biggest surprises for many visitors is just how diverse the Whitsundays really is. The region stretches across islands, coastal communities, hinterland properties, and marina precincts, all offering completely different experiences and atmospheres. Understanding the layout of the region, travel times, accommodation options, and seasonal conditions can make a significant difference when planning a wedding, which is why destination information forms such an important part of the platform.

For couples dreaming of a Whitsundays wedding, Weddings Whitsundays provides a practical and inspiring place to start. It brings together the people, places, and information needed to turn an idea into a well-planned celebration in one of Australia’s most iconic destinations.

Discover venues, connect with local suppliers, and explore planning resources at Weddings Whitsundays

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Not Your Average Wedding Expo: The Whitsundays Wedding Trail Is Changing How Couples Plan

May 27, 2026

Planning a destination wedding is no small undertaking. The venues are unfamiliar, the suppliers are unknown names on a list, and the sheer logistics of organising a celebration in a place you've only visited for the weekend (maybe), can feel paralysing before a single decision has been made. The Whitsundays Wedding Trail, taking place on Sunday 14th June, is designed to change all of that.

Unlike a traditional wedding expo - where hundreds of suppliers pack into a convention centre and couples leave with a tote bag of brochures and little else - the Trail works entirely differently. It is an immersive, region-wide event that takes engaged couples directly to six of the Whitsundays' most stunning wedding venues, with key suppliers waiting at each stop, ready to meet them in the very spaces where they might one day be working together.

The concept is simple, but the effect is something a website or floor plan cannot replicate. Couples spend the day moving between venues - from lush country settings to waterfront estates - experiencing ceremony and reception spaces in their actual environment. They can understand the flow of a space and get a genuine feel for whether a venue matches their vision. No amount of scrolling through Instagram can achieve that.

The six venues on the Trail represent the full range of what the Whitsundays has to offer. Water's Edge Resort and Coral Sea Resort bring waterfront settings. The Garden Bar offers flexible spaces and marina views. The Creek Whitsundays offers a touch of country only 40mins from Airlie Beach. Elementa and Yangaro, round out the route with accommodation, ceremony and reception options for those who want to keep everything beautifully in the one place.

Two bus loops run throughout the day, making it straightforward for couples to move between venues without needing to nominate a driver or worry about directions. For those who prefer to set their own schedule, a self-drive option covers most of the Trail. There is no single prescribed way to experience the day - couples are encouraged to visit the venues on their wish list and linger as long as they need at each one.

What sets the Trail apart from other wedding planning events is the deliberate presence of suppliers at each venue. Photographers, celebrants, caterers, transport providers, stylists and florists are all represented, giving couples the rare opportunity to have real conversations in the very spaces where those suppliers would actually work. Meeting a photographer in a venue's garden, or a caterer in the function space, carries a very different weight to exchanging cards across a booth.

The Trail is the creation of Weddings Whitsundays, the region's dedicated wedding planning platform connecting engaged couples with venues and vendors across the area. The platform was built on a simple idea: that planning a Whitsundays wedding should feel accessible and inspiring, not overwhelming. The Wedding Trail extends that philosophy into a live, immersive experience - a curated introduction to the region for couples at any stage of their planning journey.

For those who are just beginning, it is an ideal starting point - a day to gather ideas and start understanding what the Whitsundays actually looks like in person. For couples further into their planning, it is the chance to meet suppliers they have been weighing up and see shortlisted venues side by side.

Tickets are available in three tiers. The self-drive option is free. The bus loop, which provides access to both loops throughout the day, is $10 per person. A closing event ticket at Elementa Whitsundays is $30 per person, and includes canapes, a cash bar, and the opportunity to keep meeting suppliers as the sun sets over the water.

The Whitsundays Wedding Trail begins on Sunday 14th June. Registrations are open at weddingswhitsundays.com/whitsundays-wedding-trail/

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Big Mango turns 24

May 28, 2026

Bowen Tourism and Business team members Leanne Abernethy and Cindy Tonks with the Big Mango. Photo supplied

It’s been a big week for Bowen’s iconic Big Mango, which celebrated it’s 24th birthday on May 25th.

Named Queensland’s “Best Big thing” in 2025, the tourist attraction is 10 metres tall, and is located next to the Bowen Visitor Information Centre – where you can buy a large range of mango-themed products, including Bowen’s much-loved mango sorbet.  

Bowen is the Australian birthplace of the Kensington Pride variety of mango, also known as the “Bowen Special”, introduced from India in 1871.

The Big Mango is a replica of that variety and is suitably lush in colour, having been repaired three years ago to ensure it was “ripe” for its 21st.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the Big Mango was an important tourist attraction for the Whitsundays region.

“We have welcomed a record number of people at the Bowen Visitor Information Centre in recent years and there is no doubt the Big Mango is one of the major attractions in the region,” she said.

The Big Mango was famously “stolen” in a publicity stunt by Nandos in 2014 as part of the launch of a new mango and chicken product.

As part of that promotion, Nandos had a 6-metre mango built, which they set up in Federation Square in Melbourne, claiming they had found the Big Mango.

That structure is now known as the “Little Mango” and has been installed at Bowen’s Front Beach, next to the information booth – so Bowen actually has two big mangos.

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Local Bull Rider To Compete In NSW v QLD Tournament

May 27, 2026

As a fourth generation bull rider, Ky’s passion for the sport runs deep. Photo supplied

For 21-year-old local Ky Borghero, bull riding is in the blood.  

As the youngest of sixth and a fourth-generation bull rider, Ky has been honing his skills aboard wild cattle from a very young age.

“I started riding small calves when I was two years old. My dad used to put me on them. He would hang onto me and let them around,” Ky said.  

This year, Ky will compete in the Queensland team against New South Wales for the Professional Bull Riders Monster Energy Origin II; an annual competition which pits the two states against each other to see who possesses the greatest bull riders.  

Ky cites his family as a major source of inspiration.  

“I started competing when I was twelve. We used to have 11 Brahman bulls at home, and I would jump on one every afternoon. Both my older brothers ride as well – in fact one is the coach of the Queensland team this year.”

Ky’s bull riding abilities also promise to take him around the world, with bull riding trips planned for the United States and Brazil both this year and next.  

Ky will compete for the State of Origin team in Newcastle (May 29th), Brisbane (June 6th) and Sydney (August 1st).  

“I’m super stoked to be in the team and represent our state. Let’s go win the trophy!!”  

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Did you know?

May 27, 2026

BMA CQ Rescue is the sole beneficiary for this year’s Whispers of the West Mayor’s Charity Ball.

From remote rescues to critical medical transfers, BMA CQ Rescue provides life-saving support when our community needs it most.

With the average cost of responding to a single task sitting at an incredible $13,990 per hour, every dollar raised makes a real difference.

Tickets for the ball are on sale now. Grab your friends and reserve your spot today to help us raise as much as possible for this vital service.

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