The  Moulin Rouge Soirée, hosted at Whisper Restaurant & Gin Bar in Airlie Beach, was a resounding success, raising $10,322 to support the construction of staff and nursing quarters at the Arthur Wina Memorial Hospital in Zambia.

The sold-out cocktail party and cabaret show, held on Friday, 15 November, welcomed 50 guests who enjoyed a dazzling performance by Georgia Darcy, a cabaret artist from Victoria.

Sandy Clark, who has been fundraising for the hospital through the Dignity Zambia initiative, shared her gratitude for the community’s ongoing support.

“The Whitsundays community has played a major role in fundraising for the hospital over the past five years and now 3,164 beautiful babies have been born with not a single loss of a birthing mother,” she said.

The soirée was the first of four planned events aimed at raising money to support the hospital in rural Zambia, which provides care for vulnerable birthing mothers. Upcoming fundraisers include another event in Airlie Beach in February, one in Adelaide in March, and a special event in Zambia in April.

The evening’s success was made possible by the contributions of local volunteers, including Fiona Donellan, Shirley Lethlean, Melissa Szalai, Suzanne Pelley, Sharon Ashman, Heather Sutton, Michael Thomas, and auctioneer Wayne Singleton of Sotheby’s Whitsundays. Special thanks also went to Amy from Whisper Restaurant & Gin Bar and Amy from Airlie Events for their professionalism in bringing the soirée to life.

With the Whitsundays community rallying behind this cause, the project to build new quarters for hospital staff is gaining vital momentum. For more information about upcoming events or to donate to the cause, keep an eye out for updates from the Dignity Zambia fundraising team.

Photos supplied

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The Mackay Festivals team are calling on locals to submit their iconic artwork design to become the front cover of the 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts program.

This artwork will be the face of the festival and will be showcased around the wider Mackay region in all shapes and sizes.

The winner of the competition will receive a $1000 cash prize and two VIP tickets to the official program launch event.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to be championing local art and artists as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts.

“The call is going out to artists, graphic designers, freelance creators, hobbyists, beginners and everyone in between – we want to see something iconic and unique,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The theme this year is ‘Uniquely Yours, Distinctively Ours – celebrating Mackay and all its uniqueness together’,” he said.

“The judges will be looking for an artwork that celebrates the Mackay region and all that makes it special.

“But the thing about our region is that what makes it special to one person, may be completely different for another.

“We all have something that we celebrate about our home, whether that’s our natural wonders, our community, our artistic and cultural heritage or our opportunities through industry and our economy.

“It’s a big ask, but we want to see that uniqueness celebrated and expressed in an artwork and we are really excited to see what our creative residents deliver.

“We have no doubt that this festival program will be a piece of art in its own right and that it will be a collectors’ item.”

Festival and Events Coordinator Phoebe Short said the Mackay Festival of Arts program design competition began in 2024 as another way to celebrate arts and culture in our region.

“We wanted our program to be a canvas to showcase amazing local talent and creativity,” Ms Short said.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for an artist to receive extensive exposure on a medium that champions art, expression and creativeness,” she said.

For design requirements, terms and conditions and to apply, visit themecc.com.au/designcomp  
Applications close on Sunday, December 15, 2024.

The Festivals and Events Team will contact each applicant once all submissions have been reviewed by the judging panel on December 17, 2024. The panel’s artwork selection will then go to public vote where the winner will be chosen by the community and announced in the New Year.  

Should you have any queries, please contact the team on 4961 9777.

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For those ‘once-a-year’ bakers, the thought of compiling festive food can be overwhelming.
But, fear not!
Fun festivity doesn’t need to be fiddly.
Check out these melted snowman cookies. Simply purchase pre-made cookies, dip the top in melted white chocolate and pop your marshmallow snowman on top. You can purchase an edible pen decorator in the baking section of your supermarket.
TIP:  It’s easier to draw the snowman faces before sticking the marshmallow onto the chocolate.
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Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Ingredients
   • 2 cups cranberry juice
   • 1 cup orange juice
   • 1/2 cup pineapple juice
   • 1/4 cup lemon juice
   • 1/4 cup sugar syrup (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
   • 1 cup ginger ale or sparkling water
   • 1/2 cup rum or vodka (optional)
   • Fresh fruit slices (orange, lemon, lime, and berries)
   • Ice cubes
Instructions
   1. In a large pitcher or punch bowl, combine cranberry juice, orange juice, pineapple juice, lemon juice, and sugar syrup (if using).
   2. Add rum or vodka if desired and stir to combine.
   3. Refrigerate for at least an hour to chill.
   4. Just before serving, add ginger ale or sparkling water and stir gently.
   5. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh fruit slices.

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Friday 6th December  

Crochet & Conversation  
9am
Join a friendly group of Northern Beaches locals for crocheting, coffee, and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. Everyone is welcome, whether crafting or just enjoying the vibe. Look for the yarn under the shade sails or inside, weather permitting!
Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade.

Century 21 Plaza Christmas Markets
4pm-7pm
As a part of the Mackay Councils City Heart Christmas, Century 21 will be hosting markets in the Plaza and stretching out into Ninth Lane.
Bring along the family for Music, Markets, Food, Lights & More while enjoying the Councils City Heart Christmas
68 Sydney Street, Mackay

City Heart Christmas
4pm
City Heart Christmas returns on 6th December, 4pm–8pm, offering free family fun and festive activities. Highlights include Santa’s Secret Present Search, face painting, a silent disco, live music, and late-night shopping. Enjoy Gelatissimo ice cream, The Deli Nook’s BYO cheese night, and more. Workshops, tours, and markets make this an unmissable celebration! Bookings required for select activities.
Wood Street Mackay

LIVE Music  
6-9pm
Enjoy Noah Davis LIVE at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Mr Blake At Your Service
7.30pm
The final film for 2024, Mr Blake at Your Service, is a romantic comedy-drama starring John Malkovich and Fanny Ardant. The story follows Andrew Blake, a charming British businessman who unexpectedly becomes the butler at the fading Domaine de Beauvillier estate. As Blake navigates cultural clashes and wins over the aloof Madame de Beauvillier, the film explores themes of second chances, unexpected friendships, and rediscovering happiness.  Tickets: www.trybooking.com/CWRDK
Cook Theatre (in CQU Building 1 at the end of the road)

Saturday 7th December

Santa Breakfast
8am
Santa’s Breakfast is coming to the food court on Saturday, 7th December, from 8am–9am. Join Santa for a festive morning filled with holiday cheer! Tickets are $10 per child, but spots are limited. Book now to secure your place at this special Christmas event.
Mount Pleasant Food Court

2024 Kids Triathlon
3pm
Join the Kids Aquathon & Triathlon at the Mackay Aquatic and Recreation Centre (MARC) for ages 5–12. Safe swimming, cycling, and running on state-of-the-art facilities make this a fun and active event. Registration starts at 3pm, with warm-up at 3:30pm. Distances vary by age group for both aquathon and triathlon categories. Don't miss this exciting day for young athletes.
Mackay Aquatic Recreation Complex

Christmas Scrim Event & Social Skate
4pm
Mackay City Rollers invites you to their annual Christmas Short Track Scrims to celebrate the 2024 roller derby season! Featuring junior and senior games, doors open at 4pm with derby action from 4:30pm. Skaters from near and far are welcome—register online to join. Stay tuned for schedules and team updates on the event page!
Mackay PCYC

Star and 4KM’s Carols In The Gardens
From 5.30pm
Enjoy a magical evening at Carols in the Gardens on Saturday, 7th December, from 5:30pm–8:30pm at the Meadowlands Amphitheatre, Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. Sing along to your favourite Christmas carols, enjoy festive fun, live performances, delicious food, and a visit from Santa. Bring a picnic blanket and share in the holiday cheer, proudly supported by Glencore.
Meadowlands Amphitheatre

Sunday 8th December  

“Wonder” A Christmas Spectacular
8.30am
NewLife Church is excited to invite you to "WONDER", our 2024 Christmas Spectacular. Bring your family and invite your friends and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Festivities from 5pm at 75 Evans Avenue, North Mackay, Food and Drinks for Sale, Carols with Live Band, Fun for the Kids + so much more.
Mackay PCYC

Sunday Buffet Breakfast
9am-11am
Enjoy a delicious buffet breaky with family or friends this Sunday at Goosies Sport and Recreation Club. $20 for Members or $23 for non-members. Children 12 or under $10.
Goosies Sport and Recreation Club

Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3 pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel

Christmas In The Cane
2.30pm
Celebrate the season at Carlisle's Christmas in the Cane, a free family-friendly event filled with festive fun! Enjoy live performances by talented staff and students, exciting carnival rides, delicious food stalls, and a spectacular fireworks display set to music. Bring family and friends for an evening of joy and celebration. Carnival ride tickets available online and on-site.
17 Holts Road , Mackay

Tuesday 10th December  

Chatty Cafe
9.30am
Chatty Café invites you to come along to connect, converse, and share ideas.
Chatty Café is a global movement that aims to reduce loneliness and social isolation, connecting people over a cuppa to help improve health and mental wellbeing. People can feel isolated for many reasons; living alone, parenting at home, restrictive disabilities, getting older, or being linguistically diverse to name a few. This initiative supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal Eleven: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Gordon White Library

Wednesday 11th December  

Mackay Farmers’ Market
6:30 – 10:30am
Shop local at the Mackay Farmers' Market and enjoy a morning on the Pioneer River.
Grab your reusable coffee cups, drink tumblers, water kefir bottles, produce and carry bags and stop in at the Mackay Farmers' Market every Wednesday.
Bluewater Quay

Explore A Gym
9am
Bring your child along for a morning of FUN! Explore-A-Gym is a 2 hour play session that is designed to give your child the opportunity to learn and explore in a non-structured environment. Suitable for ages 18 months to 5 years. Cost is $12/child
5 Snow Wright CRT, Beaconsfield. Mackay

Thursday 12th December  

Riverside Markets
3pm-8pm
Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!
Bluewater Quay

Christmas Door Wreath Workshop
5.30pm
Ready to elevate your Christmas table decor? Join The Florist Fourways on December 5th for a Christmas Door Wreath Workshop. From 5:30pm to 7:00pm, participants can create a stunning wreath while enjoying coffee and cake or wine and nibbles. The workshop is $150 per person, with limited spaces available. Book your spot now at www.theflorist4ways.com.au.
The Florist Fourways

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The Friends of the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) are pleased to announce the Pathways to Performance program will be delivered in 2025, with funding support by BMA and Glencore Hail Creek Mine.
Operating since 2011, Pathways to Performance is a funding program designed to assist schools with the financial costs associated with students accessing cultural opportunities at the MECC.
Since its inception, the program has assisted more than 19,000 students through the payment of transportation, and in some instances, ticketing. The news was announced at the annual MECC Educators’ Launch, which was recently hosted in the MECC’s Lynette Denny Space.
At the event, more than 60 educators enjoyed a sneak preview of the performances that are open to the funding program in 2025.
Mayor Greg Williamson said sponsorship from BMA and Glencore Hail Creek Mine will benefit schools greatly.
“This funding program has assisted 19,571 students since 2011. This is an incredible achievement of the Friends of the MECC, and would not have been possible without generous sponsors like BMA and Glencore Hail Creek Mine,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Without the Pathways to Performance program, many schools simply could not afford the costs associated with attending cultural events at the MECC,” he said.
“It’s wonderful to have these sponsors on board for another year.”
The program has seen numerous sponsors over the years, including financial support by The Friends of the MECC themselves.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the Pathways to Performance program was one of many examples of why the Friends of the MECC are such a valuable volunteer group to Mackay’s arts community.
“The Friends of the MECC have been successfully delivering volunteer services for 37 years.
“The Pathways to Performance program is one of many things this group does for our community.”
Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal also announced their continued support of DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season at the MECC Educator’s Launch, with a 2025 and 2026 partnership.
“BMA, Glencore Hail Creek Mine, and Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal have been supporting Mackay’s arts community for many years. It’s wonderful to welcome these sponsors back,” Mayor Williamson said.
The 2025 MECC Season will be launched to the wider community in the coming weeks, with the MECC’s MECCmas promotion scheduled to take place from 1-12 December.

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Left to Right: Andrew Bobeldyk (MECC), Mayor Greg Williamson (MRC), Telina James (MECC), Teagan Smith (MECC), Danielle Davis (DBCT), Sharon Johnston (DBCT), Jemma Carey (MECC), Serina Jones (BMA) and Leah Scheepers (BMA). Photos supplied
Over 60 educators visited the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) on Wednesday 13 November, to enjoy a sneak preview of the MECC’s 2025 School Entertainment Program
The Friends of the MECC are a volunteer group dedicated to supporting the centre by providing a large, volunteer workforce and by purchasing items of equipment for the centre

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Mackay’s City Heart will come to life with a festive two-storey light show and beautifully decorated shop windows.
The City Heart Bright Lights will see a tropical-themed Christmas light show projected onto the Masonic Hall façade from the top floor of The Dispensary.
Mayor Greg Williamson said this was a first for our region and would be a sight to see for residents.
“This spectacular light show will run most nights from December 6 to December 14 and will be a real crowd-pleaser,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Everyone is invited to come to the City Centre, enjoy a meal and watch this tremendous two-storey show,” he said.
Mayor Williamson said while in the City Centre, visitors could do some good old-fashioned window shopping and check out the Christmas decorations.
“As part of the City Heart Magical Christmas Window competition, 25 City Heart retailers have decorated their shopfronts in a bid to win a fantastic prize thanks to StarFM.
“The businesses, including restaurants, clothing retailers and other service providers, have really gone all out to bring festive cheer to their shopfronts for everyone to admire.
“Visitors to the City Centre can vote for their favourite window via a QR code which will be visible in the front of the window.
“The winning retailer will have an outside broadcast by StarFM out the front of their business, a great opportunity for them to promote their business.
“A map of the businesses participating in the City Heart Magical Christmas Window competition will be available online along with the voting form.
“And don’t forget to also get your photo with our fantastic interactive Santa decoration on Wood Street – our City Heart is the place to be!”

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The Masonic Hall on Wood Street will come to life with a tropical, festive light show as part of the City Heart Christmas celebrations

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This December 6th, the heart of Mackay City will come alive with holiday cheer as the Christmas Markets take over Century 21 Plaza from 4-7pm. A unique celebration of local talent, this festive gathering promises to bring together some of the region’s best artisans, makers, and small businesses for an unforgettable Christmas experience.
Forget the generic chain store hustle—this market is all about supporting local with a stunning range of handpicked stalls that showcase the creative spirit of Mackay. From beautifully crafted confectionery by Mint and Mauve to the eclectic offerings at The Twisted Wombat Gift Co., there’s something for everyone. The event also features Living Art Creations, T-Scrubs, Naturally Yours by D&D, and many more, offering everything from custom art and skincare to handmade clothing and accessories.
With over 30 stalls already confirmed, you’ll find plenty of gift ideas that are anything but ordinary. Whether you’re on the hunt for that perfect, one-of-a-kind present or just looking to enjoy the festive atmosphere, these markets are a must-visit.
And it’s not just about the shopping. Mystic Alchemy will be serving up fresh coffee and specialty drinks to keep your spirits high.
So, why not make it a night out? Access the event via the Sydney Street Plaza entry and explore the open retailers—Century 21 Coast to Coalfields and Huxx + Rose Hair are just some of the businesses helping to keep the city heart beating.
Support Mackay’s unique businesses this Christmas, and discover extraordinary, personal gifts crafted with love by talented locals.

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Friday 29th November

BirdLife Mackay Monthly Bird Count In The Gardens
6am
Join birdlife Mackay on the last Friday of each month for a free bird species count at the botanic gardens and lagoons. Meet at the viewing deck near the café at 6am. All are welcome to participate and learn about local birds.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Sip & Pearl
3pm
Enjoy an afternoon of creativity at sprinkles and love cake emporium. participants can design their own pearl jewellery with expert guidance from the pearl girl. the workshop includes two custom-designed pieces, such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or anklets. a medium hot or cold beverage and a sweet treat from the sprinkles sweets cabinet are also provided.
Sprinkles and Love - Cake Emporium Mackay & Whitsundays

Texture Art Xmas Tree
6pm
Michelle will guide participants in crafting a 40cm x 50cm design using water-based, non-toxic texture paste. follow steps to recreate the pictured Christmas tree or design your own. all supplies are included; byo drinks and nibbles. suitable for ages 16+ with a participating adult. limited seats, bookings essential.
Shop 1, 3 Ungerer st , Mackay

LIVE Music  
6-9pm
Enjoy Significant Other LIVE at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Saturday 30th November

2024 Specials Olympics Mackay Fire Multi Sport Event
8.30am-5pm
30th November – 1st December
Special Olympics Mackay Fire welcomes Special Olympics athletes and individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism to participate in 3x3 basketball, table tennis, bocce, and tenpin bowling. Proudly sponsored by Lawford and Michelle Edwards of Increw Group, the club’s annual multi-sport sponsor for seven years, this event offers a supportive environment for athletes to enjoy and showcase their skills.
See flier attached for location and times

A Glorious Christmas 2024
3pm
Mackay audiences are invited to enjoy A Glorious Christmas, featuring beloved carols and Robert Ray’s Gospel Mass. Guest conductor Kim Kirkman returns alongside the Mackay Children's Chorus, led by Caitlyn Schurmann and Nicole Thomson. Accompanied by Professor Judith Brown AM, the choir presents a delightful program. Performances are on November 30 and December 1 at the CQU Conservatorium of Music. Tickets: Adults $35, Concession $30, Child $20. Book at trybooking.com/CVDYM or call 0422 264 397.
Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music, Ooralea

Mackay Makers Christmas Market
4pm
Discover unique handmade gifts by local businesses at the Mackay Showgrounds Big Shed on Saturday, November 30, from 4pm to 8:30pm. Enjoy delicious food from Eat Street food trucks, live music by talented local musicians, and kids’ activities, including jumping castles and face painting. Entry is $2 for adults, with free entry for kids under 17.
Mackay Showgrounds

Sunday 1st December  

Seaforth Mega Market Sunday Art POP Up
7am-12pm
The end-of-year POP UP EXHIBITION will be held at Seaforth Mega Market on December 1st. Visitors are invited to come by and explore the creations of #susanrileygee, along with the work of students and staff, showcasing what has been accomplished in 2024
Seaforth Beach

Spring Soiree Does Christmas
8.30am
Spring Soiree does Christmas – The last big market of the year, hosted by PCYC, will feature a mini market, an outdoor bike track, an indoor kids' area, Santa, and much more. It promises to be a fun-filled event for all ages, offering a festive atmosphere with plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy
Mackay PCYC

Sunday Buffet Breakfast
9am-11am
Enjoy a delicious buffet breaky with family or friends this Sunday at Goosies Sport and Recreation Club. $20 for Members or $23 for non-members. Children 12 or under $10.
Goosies Sport and Recreation Club

Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3 pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel

Monday 2nd November  

Services Australia Drop In
9am
Do you require support with accessing your MyGov, or need information around payment and services with Centrelink, Medicare, and Child Support, come along to these drop-in sessions to have a face-to-face chat
Dudley Denny City Library

Tuesday 3rd November  

BMA Kidspace
10am
BMA Kidspace at Artspace Mackay is a free and popular toddlers’ program offering children aged 0-5 years the chance to explore and enjoy art in a cooperative learning environment. The program includes two drop-in art sessions and free live music entertainment for kids. Toddlers can join in for a fun day of art-making, singing, and dancing, with sessions running from 10am to 2pm. First Art session: 10 - 11:30am. Music session: 11:30am - 12:15pm. Second Art session: 12:15 - 2pm
Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct, Gordon Steet.

Wednesday 4th November  

Mackay Farmers’ Market
6:30 – 10:30am
Shop local at the Mackay Farmers' Market and enjoy a morning on the Pioneer River.
Grab your reusable coffee cups, drink tumblers, water kefir bottles, produce and carry bags and stop in at the Mackay Farmers' Market every Wednesday.
Bluewater Quay

Explore A Gym
9am
Bring your child along for a morning of FUN! Explore-A-Gym is a 2 hour play session that is designed to give your child the opportunity to learn and explore in a non-structured environment. Suitable for ages 18 months to 5 years. Cost is $12/child
5 Snow Wright CRT, Beaconsfield. Mackay

Thursday 5th November  

Riverside Markets
3pm-8pm
Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!
Bluewater Quay

Christmas Door Wreath Workshop
5.30pm
Ready to elevate your Christmas table decor? Join The Florist Fourways on December 5th for a Christmas Door Wreath Workshop. From 5:30pm to 7:00pm, participants can create a stunning wreath while enjoying coffee and cake or wine and nibbles. The workshop is $150 per person, with limited spaces available. Book your spot now at www.theflorist4ways.com.au.
The Florist Fourways

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Saving the best film for last, Film Arts Mackay are screening the highly anticipated romantic comedy-drama Mr Blake at Your Service featuring the dynamic duo of John Malkovich and Fanny Ardant. Malkovich's brilliant underrated comedic style is on full display as he takes on the role of the charming British businessman, Andrew Blake.

In a twist of fate, Blake becomes the butler of the Domaine de Beauvillier estate, owned by the graceful and aloof Madame de Beauvillier (Ardant). A once-distinguished manor house, the estate is now a shadow of itself, with rooms, staff, and residents all longing for better days.

Adapted and directed by the author of the bestselling French novel, Complètement Cramé!, this very sweet and humorous film explores culture clashes, unexpected friendships, and second chances at happiness.

What: Next film night: Mr Blake at Your Service
​When: 7:30pm Friday 6th December
Where: Cook Theatre (in CQU Building 1 at the end of the road)
​Tickets: www.trybooking.com/CWRDK

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An up-and-coming international phenomenon, Siena Larsson continues to climb the aBreak58 charts, opening the door to a world of exciting opportunities to advance her music career. Originally from Bowen, Siena has always held a strong passion for creating music and took advantage of each opportunity available to work towards her dream from performing in the Whitsundays to completing a Bachelor of Music at the Queensland University of Technology.
“Music has always been something that I wanted to do, even if I wasn’t sure what that would look like, and it was when I released my first song that I thought this could actually be something that I can pursue as a career,” shared Siena.
2024 has seen Siena put together a full band, allowing her to grace the stages of seven live gigs and perform her original music for audiences to enjoy, including headlining Brisbane’s sold out It’s Still a Secret.
aBreak58 provides artists with the opportunity to showcase their music across the world for listeners to cast their votes for their favourite tunes, and Siena has jumped the charts of the discovery platform, leaping from number 53 to 31 in just two weeks.
“aBreak58 is such a large radio station, and I’ve had lots of messages from people who have found me including other artists on the list who want to collaborate with me, which it just awesome,” added Siena.
“It’s opened up a lot of doors, and just being somewhere with professionals in the industry is something I’m really grateful for.”
To vote for Siena, visit https://abreakmusic.com/abreak58-playlist.

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Talented musician Siena Larsson is originally from Bowen. Photo supplied

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Airlie Beach, are you ready to embark on a musical journey like no other? The ultimate party band, Sex & Chocolate, will soon grace the Airlie Beach Hotel stage with their highly anticipated show, Motown to Millennia for two electrifying afternoons on Saturday 14 December and Sunday 15 December!
Prepare to move, groove, and sing along as the iconic band takes you on a nostalgic ride from the soulful sounds of the Motown era to the chart-topping rhythms of the new millennium.
With over twenty-five years of exceptional performances under their belt, Sex & Chocolate has been wowing audiences across Australia with its incredible vocals, electrifying talents, and expertly choreographed shows. Their latest, dynamic performance, Motown to Millennia, promises a wonderful, and effortless blend of Motown classics with funky, disco anthems, smooth RnB grooves, and top hits from the past few decades.
A performance for audiences of young and old, Sex & Chocolate promises something for everyone! Harmonies of The Temptations, The Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, and The Spinners alongside iconic sounds from Prince, Shaggy, Billy Ocean, and Bruno Mars will ignite the Airlie Beach Hotel for a December weekend to remember.
Audiences can expect to enjoy plenty of classics pared with the commendable, dazzling choreography of each of the band’s showstopping artists to keep you dancing on your feet well into the evening!
Sex & Chocolate are infamous for their high energy performances, and impeccable vocal harmonies staging four sensational, award-winning singers.
With a newly added female member to the band, Sex & Chocolate promises plenty of magic, excitement, energy, and talent as they recreate the legendary sounds of some of the greatest vocal groups of all time such as, The Jackson Five, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, and Marvin Gaye to transport you back to the golden age of music.
Each performance held on both Saturday and Sunday will run from 2pm through to 5:30pm, with both promising to celebrate music, soul, and dance to have you’re dancing shoes begging for more.
Set aside a special place in your schedule, and mark your calendars for this electrifying, and unforgettable performance!
Sex & Chocolate’s Motown to Millennia show will dazzle the Airlie Beach Hotel on the 14 and 15 of December with tickets on sale now and booking out quickly. Gather your friends and let the magic of Motown and modern hits take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

What: Sex & Chocolate Presents Motown to Millennia.
When: Saturday 14 December and Sunday 15 December, 2pm to 5:30pm.
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel.
More Information: 'Motown To Millennia' Sex & Chocolate - Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th December - 'The Pub' at Airlie Beach Hotel.

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On the evening of Friday, 15 November, an abundance of imagination and creativity flooded the walls, halls, and floors of the Proserpine Museum with the exquisite talents of both novice and professional artists showcased for the community to enjoy.

A spectacular grand opening, the evening staged the debut of the 2024 Accomplished and Emerging Artists Exhibition to celebrate and commend the talents of the Whitsunday region. Councillor John Collins led the official proceedings and opened the event where he was gratefully gifted a wonderful piece of artwork painted especially for him by Dawn Pearce - the driving force responsible for making the exceptional evening possible.

“Each piece on display is a testament to the passion and vision of the artists who’ve poured their hearts into their work and some of them are seasoned artists, while others are just starting out – which they should be very proud of,” shared Cr John Collins.

The 2024 exhibition has been described as a magical mix of mediums with fabric art, painted pieces, basket weaving, jewellery, woodwork, and photography included in the showcase. Across each individual piece, the passion and talents of every artist comes alive, especially in the case of emerging artists where audiences can see a wonderful display of promise.

Dawn Pearce holds a world of teaching experience extending over three decades where she has provided countless artists with the amazing opportunity to exhibit their talents for others to see. An accomplished art teacher, her passion for sharing other people’s talents draws from her love for seeing art flourish, whilst proudly showing onlookers the potential of artists within her community.

The Proserpine Museum warmly welcomes the community to visit the showcase for themselves and witness the magical talents of their neighbours. The beautiful exhibition will be on display until Tuesday 17 December, and with so much to admire, its well worth to visit more than once.

What: 2024 Accomplished and Emerging Artists Exhibition.
When: Weekdays between 9am to 4pm Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 2pm on Friday until Tuesday 17 December.
Where: Proserpine Museum.
More Information: proserpinehistoricalmuseum.com.

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Councillor John Collins was presented with a wonderful piece of artwork painted especially for him by Dawn Pearce. Photo supplied

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Airlie Beach will be hosting a fantastic evening of Christmas Carols and Holiday Movies at the Foreshore this Sunday.
Kicking off at 4pm on the 1st of December, the evening will begin with joyful Christmas carols, where the community can join together in singing your favourite holiday tunes to spread the festive cheer together.
Following the Christmas Carols, the evening continues with a festive double movie feature under the stars!
First, watch the holiday special Merry Madagascar, followed by the classic family favourite Home Alone 2.
This free, family-friendly event is sure to bring holiday magic to everyone.
For the event you will need your festive spirit, a picnic blanket or chair and your favourite snacks or enjoy a delicious bite from the fantastic food vendors.
Both events are no smoking and alcohol-free. In the event of bad weather, the movie night will be cancelled. Check the Whitsunday Regional Council's website for updates!
Don’t miss out on the carols and this festive movie night, its set to be a night full of festive cheer.
What: Airlie Beach Christmas Carols and Holiday Movies
When: 1st December 4pm
Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore.

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Friday 29 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers (7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Wontok(4pm–8pm)

Saturday 30 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Tusk’ Fleetwood Mac (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers (7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm–8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm)Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm–6pm)

Sunday 1 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Tusk’ Fleetwood Mac (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sam McCann (6:30pm–9.30pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm-6pm)

Thursday 5 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm–9.30pm)

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