Fleur McDonald Ready To Visit Bowen

Regional Australian novelist, Fleur McDonald is taking her readers back to the fantastic backdrop of regional Western Australia, with eclectic and personable sweep of characters that leave readers wanting more.

Poignant and powerful, Fleur’s newest novel ‘Voices in the Dark’ follows charming Sassi Stapleton, who rushes home following a worrying phone call from her mother. Hurrying home to Barker, she swerves to miss a kangaroo and rolls down an embarkment.

By the time she is discovered, Sassi hears the unfortunate news that her grandmother had passed away.

For the Stapleton family, it becomes clear that her grandfather is not able to live by himself, and Rasha enters the home, as his carer.

Mr Stapleton is happier than ever, however bruises begin to appear on his skin. The question is raised, but who would hurt Mr Stapleton: Sassi, his granddaughter, Amber, his daughter, or Rasha, his carer?

“The idea came when I was on my last book tour,” Fleur explained.

“I was driving on the Hume Highway, coming from Canberra, when this ute flew past me at a really rapid rate. That’s pretty keen on the Hume Highway, when I’d already seen three cop cars. Later on, I saw the ute pulled off the road, and I saw the driver, a lady, with her head on the steering wheel, upset, and I wondered what happened, to make her so suddenly upset.

“That’s where the opening scene of ‘Voices in the Dark’ came from.”

From there, the story of ‘Voices in the Dark’ appeared before Fleur.

“More often than not, it’s actually just sitting down, swearing at the computer, and knowing that what you’ve written is absolute crap, and just going back and editing it later,” Fleur laughed.

For Fleur, she attempts to make sure that every one of her over 20 books are different.

“I don’t want people to read the book thinking, ‘oh yes, I’ve read this before, but it’s just different characters so I really try to make every book different from what I’ve written before.”

What can readers expect from ‘Voices in the Dark’?

“That’s a bit of a thought-provoking question!

“’Voices in the Dark’ is a trademark Fleur McDonald, with fantastic suspense, with the quaint loveable characters, and just a really good rollicking story; our world is pretty crappy at the moment and anything that I can do to help people escape from that reality.”

Robyn Batman, from Whitsunday Libraries, says that the library team is extremely thrilled to have Fleur visiting Bowen with her new novel.

“She is much loved and widely read in our region,” she explained.

“There is so much excitement of her visit. The local newsagents will have her books ready on release day, and us at the library will have her book ready on hand for her visit.”

WHAT: Fleur McDonald ‘Voices in the Dark’

WHEN: Saturday November 4, from 10.30am

WHERE: Bowen Library

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Fleur McDonald visits Bowen on tour with her new book, ‘Voices in the Dark’. Photos supplied

The next instalment of the decadent Coral Sea Resort Long Lunch is happening soon, and everyone is invited to enjoy a relaxing and indulgent afternoon.

The wine will be flowing, and the food will be divine for the last long lunch for the year, so if you’ve been planning to go, this is the best time to get a ticket!

With the cruisy atmosphere, set on the beautiful backdrop of the Coral Sea, this long lunch has been perfectly paired with an imaginative and creative menu, created by Sous Chef Marielo Varela.

“We will again be producing a 6-course menu this time written by our talented Sous chef Mario Varela,” explained Braydon Harriott, Food and Beverage Manager.

An indulgent and decadent six course Spanish themed degustation menu, each dish has been articulately paired with beautiful wines, which complement each and every aspect of the dish.

“Mario Grew up in Galicia Spain and has been a chef for 10 years,” Braydon said.

“He is taking the opportunity to step up and show-off some of his culture for a Spanish inspired menu.”

On the wine list is a selection of Spanish wines, each carefully handpicked.

While you dine in style, allow all your worries to be washed away with the eclectic and serenading sounds of a live musician.

Wear your best white outfit and relax your Sunday away!

WHAT: Coral Sea Resort Long Lunch

WHERE: The Jetty, Coral Sea Resort

WHEN: Sunday, October 29, from 12pm

TICKETS: $150 per person available through whitsundaytickets.com.au

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Bask in the warmth of the last Coral Sea Resort Long Lunch of the season. Photo supplied

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Airlie Beach Food Truck

Secluded and intimate, the Whitsunday Food Garden is the perfect spot for an evening getaway.

Hidden in its alcove it is Ismi’s Kitchen, with lovingly crafted Indonesian dishes, Let’z Waffle with sweet and savoury options, perfect for every time of day, and finally, the Airlie Beach Food Truck, known to some as Kimbo’s Slice.

Owned and operated by Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant, the Airlie Beach Food Truck is decadent in classic Australian offerings.

“Airlie Beach Food Truck is a great combination of gourmet burgers, chicken wings and everything else that people love,” explains Kim Mullings who proudly looks after the food truck and is a crucial part of Whisper team.

Airlie Beach Food Truck was first on the scene for the Whitsunday Food Garden, with Ismi’s Kitchen following shortly behind. Since then, the Food Truck has become a staple for locals and visitors alike.

“We have the classic burgers, chicken wings and loaded fries with various toppings, but we also change up our menu seasonally, so locals can have something different to try and also keep the Truck interesting.”

Open seven days a week, for lunch and dinner, the vibes and atmosphere make for a fantastic meal in the heart of Airlie Beach Mainstreet.

“The Whitsunday Food Garden is a beautiful spot, and we’ve recently opened the other side of the Food Garden, facing the water, so now people can grab a meal and sit by the water, under the twinkling fairy light,” explained Zibby Deca, chef at Whisper, who also looks after the catering arm of the business.

“All three of the food trucks offer such different menus that we perfectly complement each other.” Everyone can just grab their favourite meal, sit down, and enjoy the view,” he said.

On the Cruise Ship days, Food Garden team ensure all food trucks are open early, servicing the thousands of people streaming into town for one single day only.

“We cater for the families, locals and tourists, for whoever wants to have a great snack, there’s always an option for someone. We have very high quality of product, and at a great affordable price, in a fantastic spot in the centre of town, so the Whitsunday Food Garden is not to be missed by anyone in town,” said Kim.

And every Thursday, don’t miss the fantastic and eclectic Night Markets, with local stallholders and buskers.

“The Night Markets are great,” said Kim. “They attract a lot of locals and tourists, and it’s a great option if someone wants to spend a few hours with the kids in a great spot. It’s also an alcohol-free zone, so families can have a great time and enjoy themselves.”

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Garin Stone, Kim Mullings, and Zibby Deca. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Now in its fifth year, Young Whitsundays Got Talent is gearing up for its Heat and Grand Final this weekend, with over 10 musicians readying themselves for the beach stage.

With seven bands and six solo vocalists, all local to Airlie Beach and Bowen, named in the line up, this will be one of the best events showcasing local, independent music.

Event organiser and coordinator, Paula Hovey, began Young Whitsundays Got Talent in 2019 after realising a gap in events for youth in the region.

“There isn’t a lot for kids to do here,” she explained.

“So, I just decided to put this together and its just blown up since then.

“It is such a good event for young people and aspiring musicians, and each and every year, the event has just gotten better and better.”

Over the years, contestants have seen fantastic progress, with the 2019 finalist, Noah Robertson, a 13-year-old who recently returned to Australia after performing alongside big names in America.

As well as this, the 2022 winner Tiffany Grace has been selected into the 2024 CMAA Academy of Country Music in Tamworth.

In fact, Tiffany will be performing this weekend at the Grand Final, alongside the 2023 contestants.

“It’s always a good day of music,” said Paula.

Prizes for the winning act include $250 prize money, one hour time slot at Lola’s Bar on November 26, guitar and stand pack from Airlie Beach Music Centre, and a backstage opportunity at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, being able to see the backstage process of professionals on the main stage.

“Everyone is welcome, with this weekend going to be extra exciting with fantastic music.”

WHAT: 2023 Young Whitsundays Got Talent Event

WHERE: Northerlies Beach Bar

WHEN: Sunday October 22, from 1pm

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2022 Contestants of Young Whitsundays Got Talent. Photo supplied

Get ready for an evening of great energy and fantastic vibes, with some of the best folk and contemporary musicians stopping by the Whitsundays on their Summer Tour.

With the likes of Assynt and Jackie Marshall, who are known for their electric music of folk, country, rock, and improvised art and music.

Produced by the team behind the world-renowned Woodford Folk Festival, this tour is heating up to be a great event for a warm summer’s night.

Marking its 9th tour, the 2023 iteration will see the tour explore 18 small coastal communities and welcome this fun-loving folk adventure.

WHAT: Festival of Small Halls Summer Tour

WHERE: Whitsundays PCYC

WHEN: Friday December 1, from 6.30pm

TICKETS: https://bit.ly/3QkMGXx

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Mackay Northern

Beaches State High

School Year 12 Formal

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THINGS I KNOW TO BE TRUE

Andrew Bovell's controversial play, Things I Know To Be True, is coming to Mackay for a limited season, from Thursday 19th October.

Directed by Victor Scott (When the Rain Stops Falling, Ruthless - the Musical), Things I Know To Be True  explores the complexities of the Price family - a typical suburban family on the surface, but with some interesting secrets. Described by the Globe & Mail as "quietly devastating", the play combines issues such as gender confusion, sexual inequality, redundancy, and embezzlement in a thought-provoking context that will have you looking at your own family with fresh eyes.

Bovell’s play has enjoyed international success following its 2016 premiere by the State Theatre Company South Australia, being performed in the United States (2019), Canada (2023), Britain, and Spain, as well as at the New Theatre in Sydney (2022). It has also been adapted into a miniseries for Matchbox / Amazon / Blossom Films for production in 2024.

Kucom season dates: 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 & 28 October at 7.30, with a matinee on Sunday 22 October at 2pm.

Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/things-i-know-to-be-true

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Friday 13 October

Trophy Eyes – Regional Australian Tour

7:30pm

Renowned Australian post-punk rock band, Trophy Eyes, are embarking on a mighty

Australian regional tour this October. The tour serves as a continuation of the festivities

surrounding their latest Top 10 ARIA album, Suicide and Sunshine.

Don’t miss out on seeing Trophy Eyes’ unreservedly candid and emotionally charged

storytelling, joined by special guests Dear Seattle. | Get your tickets at oztix.com.au

The Seabreeze Hotel

The Feels (Live)

9pm – 1am

Join the crew at Moss on Wood and let loose with the incredible sounds of The Feels!

Get ready to groove, sway, and dance like nobody’s watching! It’s going to be a night filled with unforgettable beats and fantastic vibes. | Free entry.

Moss on Wood

Friday Kirtan Meditation

6:30pm - 8pm

2nd and 4th Friday of the month.

Kirtan meditation is a unique experience that will transport you to a world of inspiration, peace and joy, far beyond the stress and worries of life.

Kirtan sessions weave live music with sacred yoga chants in a relaxed, uplifting atmosphere where you can easily experience spiritual connection.

Delicious chai and dessert will be served after the meditation session. | Free event, register at eventbrite.com.au - Donations are welcome

QCWA Hall

Significant Other (Live)

8pm – 12am

Experience an incredible evening of live music with Significant Other.

Come along for a great night! | Free entry.

Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

Kids Class – Stretch, Breathe and Meditate

5pm – 5:45pm

2nd and 4th Friday of the month

Fully guided kids classes, aimed at ages 7-12.

These classes cover some basic stretches to get the energy flowing, guided relaxation, mindfulness, and meditation. Our kids classes aim to provide children with simple tools to assist with calming the mind and building emotional resilience. | Free event, register at eventbrite.com.au - Donations are welcome.

QCWA Hall  

Saturday 14 October

Mackay Showground Markets

6am – 10am

Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.

Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.

Mackay Showgrounds

Mackay Orchestra and Bands Festival

9am to 3pm and Sunday 1pm – 3pm

Ensembles from over 20 schools and community groups will come together to perform a balanced program of repertoire.

There will be 42 different ensembles performing over the 2-day festival in front of an adjudicator who will be grading and providing important feedback to each band on the performance of their choice of music rather than against each other, making this a unique music competition. | ENTRY FEES: $5 - Adult, $ 2 - Child/Concession, Children under 5 - free OR $10 per family

Mackay Christian College, Faith Centre, Kings Park Campus

Rocktober

7pm

Get ready for a night of Rock ‘n’ Roll mayhem, dress up as your favourite Rock or Pop Star and join us for an unforgettable evening. Live Music: The Feels 7pm to 11pm, delivering your favourite rock and pop hits. Air Guitar Competition. Best Dressed Prizes. Courtesy bus available. | Free entry.

Seabreeze Hotel

Busby Marou – Blood Red Album Tour

6pm

Busby Marou have gained the reputation as one of Australia’s hardest working live bands, best known for their distinctly Australian storytelling and gifted musicianship.  Their 5th album, “Blood Red”, is out on July 21st, and they are taking the band on the road to celebrate.

Busby Marou will be joined by special guest Jem Cassar-Daley | Tickets available at oxtix.com.au

Harrup Park

Sheffield Shield and March Cup

Starting 10am Saturday

Featuring the Queensland and Victoria men's teams, the four day match will take place from 14th to 17th, followed by a Marsh Cup one day game on Thursday October the 19th.

Featuring some of the biggest names in Australian Cricket. | Tickets available at eventbrite.com

Great Barrier Reef Arena

Sunday 15 October

BarbsWired (Live)

11am - 2pm

Cap off your weekend with a live performance from BarbsWired. | Free entry.

Seabreeze Hotel

The Wild Sky (Live)

3pm - 7pm

End your weekend on a high note with a live performance from The Wild Sky. | Free entry.

Seabreeze Hotel

Monday 16 October

Rescue Chopper Week

Starts Monday 8:30 am

Register to hold a fundraiser, such as a sausage sizzle, free dress or crazy hair day during Rescue Chopper Week, one lucky school will win a helicopter landing on their school oval and visit from the RACQ Rescue crew!

You can also score a host of great prizes by entering the colouring and short story competitions during Rescue Chopper Week, from October 16 to 20.

Jump aboard, have some fun and raise funds! | Register at cqrescue.org.au

Mackay Healthcare Virtual Job Fair

11am – 2pm

If you are looking for a job in Mackay, Queensland then you're in the right place. Interview with multiple recruiters from Mackay's top employers. Register today and land your dream job. | Register at au.jobfairx.com

Online Event

Tuesday 17 October

Mackay Roadshow 2023

9am - 2pm

Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC) will be running a roadshow throughout North Queensland which will include visiting a large variety of education providers and industry site tours.

The roadshow will be highlighting the economic security, empowerment, and recognition of women in non-traditional roles within the construction industry through regional Queensland.

This program is aimed at female students who have shown an interest in the construction industry or may want to learn more about the construction industry as a career.

Mackay Leisure Centre

B2B Brews & Breakfast

8am – 9am

Supporting Anti-Poverty Week. Breakfast and coffee provided. Your donation of a non-perishable food item on the day is very much appreciated.

The Neighbourhood Hub, 4 George Street

Wednesday 18 October

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 19 October

Mackay Riverside Market

Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.

Bluewater Quay

Gin Appreciation Evening

6:30pm

THE DISPENSARY will be holding their last Gin Appreciation Evening for 2023!

The evening will feature 5 gin tastings with a 3 course menu designed by THE DISPENSARY head chef, Alex. If gin is your drink of choice this is one event you don’t want to miss. | Tickets available online.

The Dispensary Mackay

Sleeping Beauty – Royal Czech Ballet

7:30pm

Following their 2022 performances of Swan Lake, the Royal Czech Ballet return to Australia with their presentation of the classic masterpiece, Sleeping Beauty. | Tickets available at aumec.sales.ticketsearch.com

Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre (MECC)

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Mackay mega-band, The Wild Sky, have secured the final spot in the Passport To Airlie competition and will now join eight other finalists from all over the country in opening the mainstage at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music next month.

Over 200 people came to watch the five finalists that had been selected out of 30 local acts to perform at the Passport To Airlie Mackay Finals on Sunday afternoon at the Metropolitan Hotel.

National Coordinator of the Passport To Airlie Competition, Cherrie Hughes, said the event was a spectacular display of local talent.

“There was a real mixture of ages and cultures supporting live music,” she said.

“Music is one of these universal things that brings people together.”

Natasha Hardiman, Mackay Passport To Airlie Coordinator, said that she was also thrilled with the turnout this year.

“The Wild Sky was this year’s undeniable winner, and we can’t wait to see how these boys go in the national finals!”

The Wild Sky will perform on the opening night of the Airlie Beach Festival of Music alongside seven other musical acts from around Australia, each one the winner of their respective and highly contested heats.

Gravy Train (Darwin), The Robert Cini Band (Cairns), Staremaster (Sunshine Coast), Funk Knuckle (Brisbane), Venus Fly Trap (Byron Bay), Avalanche (Newcastle) and Ally Row (Melbourne) each received a spot.

The Passport To Airlie final will be held on the main-stage in the big-top tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on Thursday, November 9 and the whole family are invited to come along and listen to these quality aspiring musicians perform.

At just $10 entry or free for three-day ticket holders, this event is open to under 18s as well and is a great way for local youth to experience festival vibes and immerse themselves in musical culture.

Each of the Passport To Airlie Finalists will also perform once a day at one of the 14 different venues around town, so there will be plenty of opportunities to see them live.

Tickets are selling fast to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music and, with leading acts such as Ian Moss, Ross Wilson, Frenzal Rhomb, Dragon, King Stingray and Billy Field, it’s easy to see why.

Attendees can choose between a single day ticket or a weekend pass and individual $10 tickets for the Passport To Airlie Finals.

With its idyllic waterfront setting in the grounds of the Whitsunday Sailing Club, and across the tropical township of Airlie Beach, there is no other music festival in Australia or globally quite like the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

From 5-star resorts to budget-friendly backpackers and camping at beautiful caravan parks, Airlie Beach has an accommodation option for everyone. Bookings during the four-day event are filling up quickly, so holidaymakers are strongly advised to book ASAP.

For more information or for tickets to the 2023 festival from November 9-12, visit www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au, and follow @airliebeachfestivalofmusic on Facebook and Instagram.

WHAT: Passport To Airlie National Showcase Final

WHERE: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Main-stage

Whitsunday Sailing Club

WHEN: Thursday, November 9 from 6pm

TICKETS: $10

WHAT: Airlie Beach Festival of Music

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club and 14 local venues

WHEN: 9 – 12 November

TICKETS: www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

Natasha Hardiamn (Soulful Entertainment - Regional Host), Michael Peters (Bass Player The Wild Sky), Ronny Croker (Vox & Lead Guitar The Wild Sky) Evan Daly (Drums & Vox The Wild Sky), Cameron Smith (Judge), Josh Notting (Judge Swoon School Of Rock), Elly Hanlon 9Airlie Beach Festival of Music)

L-R Front Row

Daniel Farmer (Judge Whitsunday Anligcan School) and Lindsay Crowley (Judge)

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With over 3000 attendees at the Mackay Seniors Expo 2023, this year's event was full of vital information for our beloved elder community.

The expo featured an array of exhibitors, including those in health and wellness, entertainment, emergency services, food vendors, and more.

Eventgoers had the opportunity to grab some goodies from various agencies and small businesses, as well as enjoy a social outing with friends and family.

Relive the Seniors Expo 2023 through these delightful social snapshots; and see you again next year!

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Photo credit: Sinead Porter

Glenice Ellis and Michelle Sparkes

Ron and Lorna Bowers, Paul and Nerell Schmidtke

Ted and Beverley Farrell

Don and Barbara Hargreaves

Peter Williams and Jan Lansbury

Warren and Shirley Sturgeon, Mackay City Bowls Club

Teresa and Denise, Mackay Fibre Arts Association Inc.

Kerry Casey, Sandra Doyle and Ian Hamilton, With One Voice Choir

Gary and Junita Alonglord

Jack and Ray

Marian, Joan, Pam & Julene, Sew Create Donate Mackay

President Robyn and Member Colin, Mackay Combined Probus Club

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It all started 36 years ago for Brian Little, when the previous Proserpine Fire Captain approached him at his Ford dealership and asked if he wanted to join and become an auxiliary firefighter.

At the time, the Proserpine Fire Station was stationed in the heart of Proserpine, on Main Street, with Brian’s dealership right next door, meaning in the case of an emergency, Brian could just jump away from his desk at a moment’s notice and help save lives.

Since then, the Fire Station has moved to a purpose-built facility in Hinschen Road, which allows the team of 18 to operate most effectively, answering calls as needed.

“There were times when I was working and I’d get the call, drop everything and attend the scene,” Brian explained.

“We average four to five phone calls a week, with about 65 per cent of those being road accidents on the highway.”

Brian has recently eased into retirement but has stuck on as an auxiliary firefighter.

But why does he do it?

“Because we are helping people during one of the most traumatic experiences ever, when we can only make things better.

“We don’t do this for the money, we do this because we care for our community and the people in it.”

New recruits simply undergo three weekend training sessions, then seven days of offsite training.

From there, they have 12 months to receive further certifications including their truck license, road safety, and hazard training, before they are fully qualified.

Additionally, each fire fighter has two-hours of training every Wednesday, to ensure up to date and consistent knowledge and training.

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Brian Little signed on to be an auxiliary fire fighter 36 years ago and has never looked back. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

It was another wonderful weekend in Proserpine, with the Proserpine Community Markets being another big hit.

“It was brilliant,” Market Coordinator Tarnia Patton said.

“The Wildlife Encounter was a big draw card for kids, and it was great to see families out and about in the community.

“The community markets always have such a good atmosphere around them.

“No matter what, we all come together and help each other. The community spirit is great.”

The community fundraiser of this spring market was for local Dannielle Hanns, who is undertaking the mammoth job of running 60 kilometres throughout October with Red Socks Run and raising support for Kidney Health.

On average, people suffering with kidney disease spend 60 hours a month on dialysis, a lifesaving procedure that cleans their blood.

Danielle Hanns is undertaking this challenge to raise awareness of the disease, having lost her sister to kidney disease.

As of the date of printing, Danielle has raised $1,582, $451 of which was gathered from the Proserpine Community Market.

“It was fantastic to raise that figure for Dannielle and her great work,” Tarnia explained.

The last Proserpine Community Market for 2023 will be the massive Christmas extravaganza, on Sunday December 10, with Tarnia already at capacity for stallholders.

“There is always such a good variety, with new stalls and regulars coming out with new products and selections to peruse,” said Tarnia.

“I suggest that you get in early, beat the heat and before all the good things are gone.”

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Wildlife Encounters adding to the fun and excitement of the Proserpine Community Markets. Photo credit: Tarnia Patton

For over 15 years, the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays has been constructing Clean Birthing Kits, to send throughout Asia, Africa, the Pacific, and the Caribbean, to give hospitals and mothers clean and sterile equipment to safely deliver their children.

In recent times, Zonta has collaborated with local schools to aid in their efforts and last week St Catherine’s Catholic College completed construction of 200 birthing kits.

Pam Harrison is a life member of Zonta Club of the Whitsundays and she worked closely with the students to make the kits.

“The students are beautiful kids. We just had so much fun!” she said.

“This is a lovely project, and it’s great for us to meet them and for them to help us in this cause.”

The outreach was organised by the school’s Z Club, who advocate for women’s health, a stop to domestic violence, and other public outreach issues.

“This is about being aware and raising awareness of issues that relate specifically to young women, and in a wider community sense, of what we can do to achieve equity and fairness,” explained the Z Club Teacher Liaison Shantae Ryle.

With over 20 students, from Year 8 to Year 12, it was a simple task to complete all 200 kits in less than two hours.

Z Club President and St Catherine’s Year 12 student Elizabeth Gill explained that the club also raise funds for the kits, alleviating some of the financial cost for Zonta.

“Normally, we do a big fundraiser, and we’ve got a big trivia night planed for next year, to help raise funds for the items used in the kits,” Elizabeth said.

St Catherine’s Principal Luke Thomson thanked the ladies of Zonta for coming in and working with students.

"This is a great service and learning opportunity for our students to give back to such a worthy cause,” he said.

“We thank the Whitsunday Zonta volunteers for coming in and working with our students over the past seven years."

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Year 8 to 12 St Catherine’s Catholic College students with the ladies of Zonta Whitsundays completing 200 clean birthing kits. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Review By Bronte Hodge

An accomplishment and an evening of enjoyment, the students of Whitsunday Christian College should be proud of the professional production they hosted last weekend.

The calibre of the performances, the professionalism of the students, and the awe of the audience culminated into a specular night.

As the nerves shifted away, and the excitement of being on stage, underneath the big lights, with loved ones in the audience grew, this was a performance of greatness.

There was Jade Shepherd-Smith as Dorothy, a role she welcomed with open arms.

Having only performed briefly in the school’s previous play, Dorothy was a new bigger challenge, one that Jade rose to fantastically, with her endearing nature.

Beside her was an array of quirky friendly characters.

Hagen Martinez plays the cowardly Lion with a performance that sells out the show. Boastful yet meek, Hagen perfectly accentuates Jade’s performance.

Lovable and dedicated, Hagen did well to bring Lion to light, creating a memorable performance on stage.  

The next of the lead ensemble is Oliver Steven as Tin Man, wishing for a heart that has the audience clutching theirs.

Delivering a performance like no other, the audience couldn’t help but wish that his dreams of getting a heart come true.

Shannon Matthews is Scarecrow, the loveable one who always seems to be mixed up in mishaps.

Even dedicating himself to a slight American accent, Shannon embodied Scarecrow throughout the entire play.

And we can’t forget the elegant Glinda the good witch, played by Bella Barker. Poignant and poised, Bella was made for this role. The soft and subtle touches of her on stage characterisation blended seamlessly with her co-stars.

Against this crew is the Wicked Witch, played to perfection by Olivia Braddock. Having the dreaded cackle down pat, her performance was legendary. The scope of this young lady is impressive, perfectly articulating the villainous nature of the Wicked Witch and her devilish ways.

Lachlan Riley, an actor of many talents took on five character roles and assisted all lead characters in pulling it altogether both on stage and off. A true all-rounder who encapsulates the essence of team.

Who can forget the man himself, The Wizard of Oz embodied by Hunter Playford. Although only in Year 7, Hunter played a remarkable role as the wise wizard portraying maturity, wit, and charm.

With imaginative storytelling, fantastic costuming, and dedication to the theatre art, this was an incredibly professional and intimate production. With almost every child having their own headset, and each voice distinct and resounding, all chorus musical pieces fantastic, with the enthusiastic singing of each student.

It was particularly warming to see one dad in the front row whip out his phone to capture his little one on stage or see little Munchkins wave to their families before the music starts for their dance, wearing their colourful and creative flower outfits.

It is clear that in the midst of Whitsunday Christian College, there are numerous future theatrical stars, that we should be ready to witness of the big screen.

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Whitsunday Christian College students showcasing their theatrical prowess on the big stage. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

The eight winners of the national Passport To Airlie competition have now been announced following the final heat which took place in Mackay over the weekend.

Gravy Train (Darwin), The Robert Cini Band (Cairns), The Wild Sky (Mackay), Staremaster (Sunshine Coast), Funk Knuckle (Brisbane), Venus Fly Trap (Byron Bay), Avalanche (Newcastle) and Ally Row (Melbourne) managed to beat 300 other musical acts from around the country to claim their spot.

The Passport To Airlie final will be held on the main-stage in the big-top tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on Thursday, November 9 and the whole family are invited to come along and listen to these quality aspiring musicians perform.

At just $10 entry or free for three-day ticket holders, this event is open to under 18s as well and is a great way for local youth to experience festival vibes and immerse themselves in musical culture.

The evening will also set the stage for what is expected to be a fantastic weekend of music.

Adding to the excitement will be Perry Street Park, last year's winners, who will headline the evening, fresh off the back from supporting The Superjesus on part of their national tour.

These talented musicians understand first-hand what it is like to be part of Passport To Airlie.

"I’ve personally been a part of Passport To Airlie twice,” said front-man Benny.

“Once as a solo project in 2019 and in 2022 with Perry Street Park.

“Passport To Airlie gives up and coming bands from all around Australia the opportunity to perform at a renowned festival on the big stage in front of industry and music lovers!

“Winning this in 2022 has led to unbelievable opportunities for Perry Street Park including touring with The Superjesus and gave us a lot of credit and proof for the work we were putting in."

For more information or for tickets to the 2023 festival from November 9-12, visit www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au, and follow @airliebeachfestivalofmusic on Facebook and Instagram.

WHAT: Passport To Airlie National Showcase Final

WHERE: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Main-stage

Whitsunday Sailing Club

WHEN: Thursday, November 9 from 6pm

TICKETS: $10

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WHAT: Airlie Beach Festival of Music

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club and 14 local venues

WHEN: 9 – 12 November

TICKETS: www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

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Perry Street Park won last years’ Passport To Airlie and will be performing on the main-stage at this years’ Airlie Beach Festival of Music. Photos supplied

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