Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
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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Coming to Airlie Beach Hotel next weekend is the spectacular ‘House Too Crowded’ band – this 6-piece band consists of a group of men all in their 30’s and 40’s.
Frontman, Glenn Starr, describes the band as: “fun, outgoing and very professional musos,” that are “dedicated” to getting the sound of Australian and New Zealand icons ‘Crowded House’ and ‘Split Enz’ as “close to the original recordings,” as possible.
The band started up amid the pandemic in 2019 and was put on hold during this period. However, since Covid-19, the band has been full steam ahead and has been performing now for about a year and a half.
When asked, the band’s background, Glenn, answered that they had been looking for a “gap in the market and what was needed in the cover band scene.”
Speaking to a few agents about what they think would sell, Glenn added that the response they, “got back was a good Crowded House and Split Enz show.”
Having found their niche, they got rehearsing and recording. While still in the early stages, Glenn enthused how they are building an audience and aiming to play in bigger venues.
Glenn mentioned the band’s highlights, which consist of, “sold out shows,” and them “coming to Airlie Beach,” to perform at the Airlie Beach Hotel.
“Being able to travel interstate with the band is great,” Glenn emphasised.
In their show, Glenn says how audience members can expect two Crowded House and Split Enz sets, including “all the hits and all the big songs.” The show will conclude with some party anthems consisting of a mixture of old Aussie classics and some international tunes from the 70s, 80s and 90s.
Glenn emphasised how the band is always trying to get as close to the original sound of Crowded House and Split Enz as possible:
“I think a lot of people will be blown away by how authentic the sound is.”
Despite covering much of the music from Crowded House and Split Enz, Glenn claims that they are not a tribute band but more of a “dedication.”
Outside of the band, the member’s professions range from working in logistics in the Army, to full time Musicians and Judo Instructors.
Have you been to Airlie Beach before?
“I've been to the docks of Airlie Beach while performing on a cruise ship; I've never been able to get off because I've had my show that night so I've had to rehearse, so, I'm looking forward to finally having a look around Airlie beach.”
Glenn also added how coming to Airlie Beach is, “A first for the band, and first for many of the guys.”
Glenn encourages all to come down and see House Too Crowded live in action:
“If you're a crowd house fan, or just a fan of great music and great players, you're really going to enjoy this show.”
“We do a lot of crowd banter, a lot of crowd participation, so, we get the audience involved and we just have a lot of fun.”
Head on down to Airlie Beach Hotel and enjoy a performance full of Rock n’ Roll with House Too Crowded.
What: House Too Crowded
When: 20th & 21st July 2024
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
House Too Crowded. Photo Credits: Iska Photography (@iskaphotography).
Bowen Tourism and Business is holding a networking event next week and all members are invited to come along, connect with others and enjoy a lively evening.
The event is free to all members of Bowen Tourism and Business and is being held just before National Mango Day.
The event will be held at Bird’s Fish Bar next Thursday, July 18 from 5.30pm.
It is National Mango Day each year on July 22.
It is hoped the members of Bowen Tourism and Business will take the opportunity to come along and meet other business owners and hear about what the organisation is achieving.
Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery said it had been some time since the organisation had held a networking event and the committee believed the timing was just right.
“We have just finished the financial year so we can update our members on key achievements and visitor numbers,” she said.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team of staff and volunteers were really looking forward to the event.
“This is a great chance to bring the business community together,” she said.
If members would like to attend, they should email info@tourismbowen.com.au by Monday or give the Bowen Visitor Information Centre a call on 47864222.
Friday 12th July
KC’s: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm-8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (6:30pm-9:30pm)
Grandview Hotel: Tim Johnstone (8pm – 12am)
Saturday 13th July
Coral Sea Resort Hotel: DJ Exceltek (2pm-6pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm-4pm)
KC’s: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: De Ja Vu (Band) (8pm – 12am)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Kiss Thiss (2pm-5:30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (7pm-10pm)
Sunday 14th July
KC’s: Noah Davies (from 8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Kiss Thiss (2pm-5:30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (6:30pm-9:30pm)
Coral Sea Resort Hotel: Simon Briley (2pm-6pm)
Grandview Hotel: Mike Duff (8pm – 12am)
Monday 15th July
KC’s: Boldy (from 8pm)
Tuesday 16th July
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Wednesday 17th July
KC’s: Ferg (from 8pm)
Thursday 18th July
KC’s: Ferg (from 8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Whits End (6:30pm-9:30pm)
July
12 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Rio, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
13 Suicide Prevention Fundraiser, Reef Gateway Hotel, from 5.30pm
16 The Sunshine Club, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
20 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 1pm
21 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6am
23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
28 Airlie Beach Triathlon, Airlie Beach Lagoon, from 5am
28 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval, from 3pm
31 The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
August
1-4 Great Barrier Reef Festival, Airlie Beach, from 9am
2 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Finding Dory, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
6 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6 Whalebone, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm and 6pm
8-15 Airlie Beach Race Week
8 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
8 Eskimo Joe, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
9 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Ice Age & Hook, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Morning Melodies – A Farewell to Doris, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 11am
15 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
20 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
25 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 6pm
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm
31 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete, Cyclone Shelter, Primary school, Sterry St, Proserpine.
September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
“We're a full makeup, full theatrical, Kiss Tribute Show”, founding member of ‘Kiss Thiss’, Lindsay West enthused.
Emulating the legendary concert experience of Kiss, four bandmates ranging from police officers to tradies in their day-to-day lives – deliver a spectacular performance complete with authentic makeup, costumes and even the same guitars used by Kiss.
“We also do the fire breathing, blood spitting and smoking guitar,” Lindsay added.
The band want their audience to have the complete Kiss experience and have all the effects and props to ensure that they get that.
Starting up due to Kiss not touring “all that much”, the die-hard fans created the band which is in its remarkable 21st year, having performed the act since 2003. Lindsay added how the band was a “good outlet” for the members.
The four band-mates are eager to showcase what they have got at the Airlie Beach Hotel where they will be performing their Kiss act, with a few additional non-kiss related songs.
After their main performance, Lindsay added that the band will “scrub their faces and get changed,” for a finishing traditional party cover set.
Lindsay reminisced over the band's highlights this year, which included touring on some international cruise lines and performing at the New Year's Eve Festival in Mackay.
The band are really excited to get over to Airlie Beach and perform at the Airlie Beach Hotel, where Lindsay says they have “never been before.”
Lindsay added, that they are excited to get out of cold Melbourne which is currently “eight degrees,” and come up to the sunny Whitsundays, which he has heard has much better weather.
The band has also been wanting to come and play in Airlie for a long time:
“We have been trying to get up to Airlie for a few years now. Now that we're being given the shot, we hope it's the first of many.”
Head on down to see Kiss Thiss live in action on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th July.
What: Kiss Thiss Tribute Band
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th July from 2pm – 5.30pm
Tickets: You don’t need them! But booking a table is recommended.
Friday 5 July
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Reef Gateway: The Hillbilly Goats (6pm – 9pm)
Jubilee Tavern: Rebelquin (6pm – 9pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dave Johan (8pm – 12am)
Saturday 6 July
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Soul Cutz (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Reef Gateway: David Flower (6pm – 9pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (8pm – 12am)
Sunday 7 July
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Soul Cutz (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Mike Vaughan (4pm – 8pm)
Thursday 11 July
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
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Situated on the beautiful Lake Proserpine the first Barra and Boots Country Music Festival was a huge success earlier this year and there is plenty more to come!
With over 500 people present at Barra and Boots it was an unforgettable experience for the country music enthusiasts who had a huge day filled with exceptional country artists.
Day trippers and campers had travelled far and wide to be there and famous acts such as Adam Brand, Sara Storer, Andrew Swift, Portia Clark all took to the stage and provided great vibes!
The atmosphere started relaxed but as the sunset provided a vibrant backdrop across the lake it picked up and people were out of their seats and hitting the dance floor.
Attendees enjoyed the backdrop of the Lake Proserpine campground which showcased its beauty and ability to host large scale events. Due to its success, discussions have commenced to bring the event back bigger and better in 2025.
Meanwhile, On Saturday 13 July, Lake Proserpine will host its next music event, the "Reef Sundowner," presented by Queensland Music Trails.
This free event is a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together and support local music.
Director of Commercial Businesses, Craig Turner, stated, "I encourage everyone interested to book a free ticket and attend. The more support we show as locals, the better we can demonstrate that Lake Proserpine is an ideal location for such great events."
What: “Reef Sundowner” by QLD Music Trails
Where: Lake Proserpine
When: Saturday 13 July, 3pm – 7pm
Tickets: moshtix.com.au
5 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sapphires, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
10 You Are a Doughnut, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 12pm and from 6pm
12 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Rio, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
13 Suicide Prevention Fundraiser, Reef Gateway Hotel, from 5.30pm
16 The Sunshine Club, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
20 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 1pm
21 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6am
23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
28 Airlie Beach Triathlon, Airlie Beach Lagoon, from 5am
28 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval, from 3pm
31 The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
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The Airlie Beach Festival of Music (ABFoM) is back for its 12th year and has released its line-up, which is set to be epic. Artists Rose Tattoo, Southern Sons, Reece Mastin and Sandi Thom are joining the already impressive lineup which includes Sweet (UK), Pseudo Echo, Jebediah, Thirsty Merc, Christine Anu, Ash Grunwald, 19 Twenty, Bondi Cigars and more. Proudly presented by the Whitsunday Sailing Club, ABFoM is your chance to come and party in the paradise that is Airlie Beach.
All the way from the UK, Glam Rock legends Sweet will be bringing classic tunes like "Fox On The Run" & "Ballroom Blitz" to the north QLD Tropics for the very first time.
Rock legends, Rose Tattoo, will bring their signature bluesy sound to the main stage. Fronted by the iconic Angry Anderson, the band promises a high-energy performance. Buckle up for a journey through their 47-year career filled with tales of bars, love, and everything in between.
Southern Sons will take you on a trip down memory lane with their original members reuniting to deliver their chart-topping classics such as “Hold Me in Your Arms” and “Heart in Danger”.
Remember the classic “I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (with Flowers in my Hair)”? Creative artist and pioneer of online music Sandi Thom returns to Airlie Beach with fresh and old and infectious tunes.
ABFoM has become an Airlie Beach tradition, with this year marking the 12th anniversary, promising to be the biggest one yet. From November 8th to 10th, get ready for a thrilling 3-day extravaganza that will transform Airlie Beach into a music lover's paradise.
A 3-day ticket will cost you $320 and grants you access to headliners, over 50 acts across various venues and the afterparty on Monday 11th. Free festival shuttles are included in the ticket price. VIP options are also available.
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable weekend of music, sun and fun at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.
What: Airlie Beach Festival of Music.
Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club, Airlie Beach.
When: November 8th to 10th 2024.
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The Great Barrier Reef Festival is excited to announce Australian singer-songwriter Conrad Sewell, as headliner of Friday night Fireworks on the Foreshore.
Conrad Sewell is known for his rich, soulful vocals and poignant songwriting that have earned him international acclaim. Bursting onto the scene with his chart-topping single "Start Again," Conrad won the ARIA Award for Song of the Year in 2015, establishing himself as a significant force in the music industry.
Between touring with Ed Sheeran, Maroon 5, and The Script, Conrad has earned praise from Entertainment Weekly, Teen Vogue, Vice, NBC, and Nylon who proclaimed him to be “Australia’s next great pop export”. Simultaneously, his voice has carried to nearly every corner of the globe on Kygo’s “Firestone,” reaching RIAA platinum status, generating over 1 billion streams, and entertaining audiences everywhere from Coachella to Madison Square Garden.
Conrad’s first album ‘LIFE’ debuted at number one on the ARIA charts with singles “Come Clean” and “Healing Hands”, reaching multi-platinum status in 2022. Conrad held nothing back in his song writing and lyrical storytelling in his sophomore album “Precious”, which was released on the same day as his son was born. ‘Precious’ demonstrated authentic song writing mixed with a raw, live sound.
Conrad’s latest single, “All Life Long”, showcases his ability to blend heartfelt emotions with memorable melodies makes him a standout artist in the contemporary music landscape.
The festival is set to be a fun weekend of free entertainment on Airlie Beach Foreshore so head on down to see the fantastic Conrad Sewell, and many other great artists play.
WHAT: Great Barrier Reef Festival
WHEN: 1-4 August
WHERE: Airlie Beach
A heart-warming gathering was held last Saturday at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens in support of Breast Cancer research.
A total of $3122.00 was raised with $822 worth of donations contributed on the day.
Attendees enjoyed a Pink Picnic afternoon tea amidst live tunes by local artist Tiffany Grace who adorned the event with her single ‘Last November.’
Peter T, Kellie Maree, Graham Day and Les McSweeney also put on a show for attendees while some even got up to boogey as Rock ‘n’ Roll dancers twirled about.
Event organiser and breast cancer survivor, Kellie Watson said, “June is Go Pink For June Breast Cancer Research which I feel is really important because I wouldn’t be here today without the research.
“It’s just a great day to have a nice little gathering here in the garden.”
Kellie extends a special thanks to sponsors and contributors such as Alcorns bakery, Crustys Bakery, Coles Parkside, Woolworths Ooralea, Cliff from Botanic Gardens Cafe (Donated High tea for 2 and cushions for the picnic), Rockin Roll Dancers, Breast Screen for gazebo, Dumpling Hut and Mr Whippy.
Another Special mention to Margaret and Joy the ladies from Louisa Creek craft morning making cushion covers and decorations), 4CRM radio and 101.9 JT, local artist Tiffany Grace as well as Peter T and Kellie Maree, Graham Day and Les McSweeney.
Attendees gathered from all walks of life in support of Breast Cancer Research last Saturday. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Imagine a day devoted entirely to you—a rare opportunity to invest in your well-being, happiness, and personal growth. This is the promise of The Joy Maker Experience, held at The Ocean International. It's a Gift of a Day designed to help you pause, reflect, and realign with what truly matters in your life.
And let me just say, "You deserve it!" You deserve the time off, to focus on YOU!
In a world where we are constantly bombarded with demands and distractions, taking time for ourselves can seem like a luxury. Yet, this transformative day offers you the chance to rediscover your values, break free from limiting beliefs, master stress management, reevaluate your priorities, and, most importantly, relax and rejuvenate.
Rebecca, a past participant, described the experience as, “An interesting roller-coaster of emotions. I didn’t realize I was holding onto so much.” Similarly, Shona found it, “Refreshing. It gave me time to reflect and feel proud of what I do.”
The Joy Maker Experience is thoughtfully curated to guide you through a journey of self-discovery and renewal. The day's activities include self-reflection, journaling, guided meditation, positive affirmations, and self-awareness exercises. You will also have the opportunity to share and discuss your experiences with others, express yourself through storytelling and art, and build connections through group activities.
To make the most of your Joy Maker Experience, it's recommended that you bring a pillow or cushion and a yoga mat for comfort, a bottle of water, a light jumper in case of a chilly room, a light lunch and any snacks you may need, comfortable clothing, and a journal for recording your ideas, thoughts, and learnings. If you prefer, an eye mask for meditation can also be beneficial.
This is more than just a retreat; it's an opportunity to invest in yourself and return to your daily life with a renewed sense of purpose and joy. Whether you're looking to reconnect with your inner self, gain new perspectives, or simply take a break from the hustle and bustle, The Joy Maker Experience offers a sanctuary for your soul.
Don’t miss this chance to join a community of like-minded individuals who are ready to prioritise their well-being and joy. Book your spot today and take the first step towards a more fulfilling and balanced life.
Bookings via Sticky Tickets and on the website: www.christinedenny.com
I can’t wait to share this incredible experience with you.
See you there!
Christine Denny, aka The Joy Maker
Mackay is renowned for its vibrant seafood, tropical produce, public art, jazz scene, and festivals like the Mackay Festival of Arts and Jazz in the Park—and the culinary scene just got even more exciting.
Eariler this week, the region’s culinary landscape was majorly elevated as Adrian and Jessica launched Gypsy Burger in Mackay, bringing their famous gourmet burgers to a Queensland foodie capital.
Jess and Adrian were stoked to spill the beans for their latest gig following their grand opening last Thursday on the 4th of July located at the family business, in the car park of Sinclair Meats.
This thrilling expansion marks yet another milestone in their journey to shake up the burger game and cater to the discerning taste buds of Mackay locals.
"Our journey began humbly in 2014 with a tiny trailer at weekend markets,” said Co-owner Jessica.
“We've evolved to cater weddings and headline festivals from our truck, opened our restaurant, and now, we're bringing our burgers to Mackay."
Co-owner Adrian added that "Our uniqueness lies in our commitment to quality.
“Few, if any, burger joints raise their own beef.
“We meticulously select top-notch ingredients, from local produce to Martin's potato buns and we’re so excited to be launching in Mackay."
Gypsy Burger is all about serving up that signature Gypsy vibe, with a special focus on mouth-watering food.
Jess and Adrian are dead set on spreading their love for top-notch, drool-worthy grub to a whole new QLD crowd, and expanding to Mackay shows just how serious they are.
With their track record of culinary brilliance and a commitment to keeping customers grinning, they're set to shake things up big time in the local dining scene.
Open every Wednesday to Sunday from 5-8 pm at 54 Alfred Street, Mackay City (Sinclair Meats Carpark)
Menu highlights:
Angus Beef & Bacon Burger
Southern-Fried Chicken Burgers
Fish Butty
Loaded Fries
$22 Combo (burger, chips & drink)
$70 family pack (4 x burgers, large chips & 1.25L soft drink)
Mackay locals fled to the Sinclair Meats carpark last Thursday for the grand opening of Gypsy Burger to experience Melbourne’s finest gourmet take-out! Images supplied
Step into a world of playful indulgence with the Chupa Chup Cocktail, a whimsical creation that captures the essence of everyone's favourite childhood lollipop in a sophisticated adult beverage.
Crafted with precision by the skilled hands at The Dispensary, this cocktail is a must-try for those seeking a blend of nostalgia and modern appeal.
To create this delightful refresher, the mixologists start with a base of premium vodka, lending a smooth yet robust foundation. Next, a dash of butterscotch schnapps adds a rich, caramelised sweetness, perfectly complemented by a splash of tangy lemon juice that balances the flavours with a refreshing zing. Last but not least, the secret ingredient - watermelon syrup, infuses the cocktail with a burst of fruity vibrancy, reminiscent of the iconic Chupa Chups lollipops.
Each sip is a journey through layers of taste, carefully designed to evoke memories of carefree days and summer afternoons.
Part of The Dispensary’s exclusive signature cocktail range, the Chupa Chup Cocktail stands out among classics like the inventive creations such as the lychee martini and sour Gary.
Picture this: you’re savouring this unique blend during The Dispensary’s renowned cocktail hours, where expertly curated cocktail cards offer a selection of six drinks of your choice every Friday and Saturday from 4 pm to 7 pm!
It’s an opportunity to experience mixology at its finest, guided by Aniish, the esteemed Bar Supervisor whose expertise and passion have been instrumental in the quality of The Dispensary’s most loved beverages over the past two years.
Visit The Dispensary today and treat yourself to a tantalising Chupa Chup Cocktail – because some flavours are simply too good to resist.
But wait… there’s more! Take advantage of Pasta Night every Tuesday evening, where you can indulge in freshly baked house bread, your favourite pasta dish and a complimentary glass of wine, all for just $40!
What are you waiting for?
Chupa Chup Cocktail:
- Vodka
- Butterscotch schnapps
- Lemon juice
- Watermelon syrup
Come down to the Dispensary and indulge in a delicious Chupa Chup cocktail, crafted by only the best mixologists in town! Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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From the creators of “The Alphabet of Awesome Science” comes a brand-new multi-award-winning family show, You Are a Doughnut.
Audiences will join biology teachers Oesoph A. Gus and Dewey Dean as they embark upon an utterly brilliant all singing, all-dancing (and all-clowning!) exploration of every twisting tube and remarkable organ — with sketches, songs and sensational science.
Along the way there will be a frenzy of enzyme powered ping pong balls, a sing along with a rainbow collection of poop puppets, and weirdest poetry performance they have ever seen.
“You Are a Doughnut” is a ‘riot of fun’ (The Clothesline) and a ‘sure winner for the whole family’ (Glam Adelaide) — presented by the ‘masters of educational entertainment’ (Play & Go).
It’s a little bit gross — and a ‘hole’ lotta fun, you might even learn something!
You Are a Doughnut is part of the 2024 DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season, proudly sponsored by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal.
Three performances will take place at NewLife Church on 11 & 12 July. With tickets at $18.50, it’s recommended for parents to book their tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
What: DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season: You Are A Doughnut
When: 11 & 12 July 2024
Where: NewLife Church
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
Get ready for a ‘hole’ lot of fun at DVCT Kid’s Theatre Season featuring ‘You Are A Doughnut.’ Book your tickets now! Image supplied
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