With Whitsunday Game Fish Club

The Whitsunday Game Fish Club is holding a Bait and Lure rigging night on Friday, 13 October from 6pm at the Marine Club in Altmann Avenue, Cannonvale.  Everyone is welcome to attend.

Club members will be demonstrating various methods of rigging a range of baits and lures to tempt fish, such as Spanish Mackerel, Sailfish, Tuna, Black Marlin, Mahi Mahi, Wahoo etc.  They will also explain the better areas and stages of the tide to find them in Whitsunday waters.

Once that 'fish of a lifetime' is on your line, boat handling plays a big part in ensuring a quick, safe opportunity to capture or tag and release it.  A few very helpful hints will be shared that may come in handy.

This should be a very informative evening, especially for those male, female, and junior anglers, vying for the wide range of prizes on offer in this year's Ben Doolin Builders Whitsunday Light Tackle Tournament, being held from 19 - 22 October.

This fun tournament is contested using 10kg monofilament line only and is open to all Club Members and anglers affiliated with GFAA.  Anyone wishing to join the Whitsunday Game Fish Club can do so on Friday, 13th October and tournament nominations close at 9pm that evening.

This is a great event, so organise your team and be part of it.

Contributed with thanks to Ashley Moore.

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The hidden alcove of Whitsunday Food Garden is amping-up the good food and great energy, with Ismi’s Kitchen Food Truck, serving the very best and most authentic Indonesian dishes.

Ismi’s Kitchen is the passion project for Ismi Small, bringing all her homestyle Indonesian recipes to Airlie Beach.

“I just love cooking,” Ismi explained.

“My husband says that my food is amazing, so we thought, ‘how about we open a food truck?’

“Since then, it has been amazing, and it’s got busier and busier.”

The entire menu and offerings have been handpicked and curated by Ismi, who keeps her recipes close to her, each ingredient is top secret and every dish is absolutely delicious.

Her magic book of recipes has pushed the venture into massive success, with Ismi able to take a step back from cooking, and now overseeing the kitchen.

“Come to recipe, I believe every hand will create something different, and I am happy if people like what I cook!” Ismi said.

“Our recipes allow us to be consistent and delivering quality meals.”

Since coming into the atmospheric Whitsunday Food Garden, who operate under the Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant umbrella, Ismi and her team have welcomed the new clientele, who love the tranquil seclusion of the food garden.

“The food garden is a beautiful spot,” Zibby Deca, Chef of Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant explained.

“We have recently opened the other side of the garden, so people can face the water at night and take in the view.

“With the fairy lights on, under the stars, in a beautiful spot.

“Everyone can grab a meal from one of the three food trucks in the garden and just enjoy a peaceful night with the spectacular views.”

Of the offerings at the Food Garden, there is definitely something for everyone.

“We always wanted to make sure the trucks complement each other,” Zibby explained.

“There is something for everyone, whether it’s gourmet Indonesian, classic Aussie burgers, or a sweet or savoury waffle.”

For Ismi, the venture has been incredibly successful.

“We try and educate the general public of Indonesian food, because it actually is both dairy and gluten free, perfect for everyone.

“Indonesian is such a healthy diet. Not only is it very tasty, but it’s a great choice for most dietary restrictions.”

And what does Ismi recommend from her fantastic menu?

“The chicken Maryland is my favourite.

“We have had a lot of people try this dish and come back for seconds.

“It is a grilled chicken with an exotic sauce, which is delicious, and everyone loves.”

Whether a seasoned Whitsunday Food Garden lover, or new to town, check out the Whitsunday Food Garden.

“I am so happy to be growing and have a good team in the Whisper kitchen and the Food Garden, I thank them all,” said Ismi.

Open seven days a week, for lunch and dinner, available for private functions, with Thursdays hosting the Night Markets and live music, making this the place to be.

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Ismi Small and her team, Gabriela Miranda and Virly Trotter. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

34 Fighters Cheered On By Crowd Of 800 At Sold Out Event

Fight Night IX A Smashing Success!

An action-packed Airlie Beach Fight Night IX had the crowd roaring in their seats last weekend as a mixture of Boxing, Muay Thai and Mixed-Partial Arts (MMA) fighters went up against each other in a series of one-on-one combat duals.

The sold-out event saw 800 people pack the room to watch 17 different fights featuring a range of competitors from across the state and also local fighters who all had their chance to fight before a local crowd.

The encouragement from the home crowd clearly spurred the fighters on with 10 of the 17 matches won by local fighters.

Organiser Anton Zafir said that he was thrilled to see such a great turnout for the ninth Airlie Beach Fight Night.

“It was great to see the local community get behind it,” he said.

“The energy in the room was awesome and it definitely uplifted the fighters!”

“Fighter Nathan Williams was the main event and he had 800 people on their feet as he walked out and his fight was electric!”

Plans are already underway for two events next year so keep you eyes open for the updates.

Organisers would like to thank their main sponsor Reefside Electrical, all their other local sponsors, and official media partner Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper.

LOCAL WINNERS

Noah Conyers won his MMA fight by Submission.

Sarah Whitworth won her boxing fight by judges’ decision.

Scout Buchanan won her Muay Thai fight by judges’ decision.

Darcy Lowcock won his boxing fight by knock out.

Reece Hermann won his boxing fight by judges’ decision.

Isaiah Jarvis won his boxing fight by Dr Stoppage.

Damian Tse won his MMA fight by judges’ decision.

Liam Buchanan won his MMA fight by judges’ decision.

Nathan Williams won his Muay Thai Fight by judges’ decision.

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Whitsunday local fighters won 10 out of the 17 battles at Airlie Beach Fight Night. Photos supplied: Elise Walsh Photography

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The team and the guests of Queens Beach Tourist Village in Bowen have had a busy winter tourist season, having fun and raising funds for the Bowen Queensland Country Women’s Association.

Hosting live entertainment every second week throughout the peak season of winter for their guests, Peter and Jennie Greer were excited to raise funds for the local Bowen branch of the Queensland Country Women’s Association.

Over $8,300 was raised for the branch, with businesses across Bowen donating supplies and raffles to the fortnightly nights, encouraging the couple to continue hosting.

“It’s been brilliant,” Jennie said.

“It feels great to know that the money stays in the community, that it helps locals.

“The ladies do such a great job.”

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy congratulated Queen’s Beach Tourist Village for their support of local charities.

She said Bowen Tourism and Business had donated prizes for the raffles and was proud to support community organisations.

“These pancake mornings and raffles were run over the busy winter holiday period when a lot of southerners spend three months her in winter,” she said.

“These visitors provide a great boost to our local economy during their extended stay, and it is fantastic to see them also supporting local non-profit organisations.

“Well done to the team at Queens Beach Tourist Village for making this happen.”

Planning for the 2024 fundraising has already started, with Jennie excited to “ramp up the effort”.

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Jennie Greer and Gerry Tomsett from Queens Beach Tourist Village presenting the Bowen Queensland Country Women’s Association. Photo supplied

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Puppetry Of The Penis Graces Airlie Beach Hotel Stage

The capes are being donned once again, with the original and Australian leg of Puppetry of the Penis hitting the Airlie Beach Hotel Stage for one last show.

Stemming from a simple past time of a young boy playing with his bits into a full-blown live comedic performance, Puppetry of the Penis offers a unique insight into the male anatomy, giving the audience a hilarious and adrenaline pumping display of grown men showcasing their genital origami live on stage.

Puppetry of the Penis is the brainchild of Justin Morely, who now produces the performances from backstage.

Since its early days in 1998 till now, Puppetry of the Penis has shocked and awed audiences across the globe.

Justin has since hung up his cape but continues to produce and promote the show internationally.

“The show is fantastic; it’s so funny, it really gets the belly laugh out of the audience,” Justin explained.

“People laugh like it’s the funniest joke they’ve ever heard. Comedians that I’ve spoken say they’ve never had people laugh as hard as they have at Puppetry of the Penis.”

Performing all their greatest bits, this will be one of the last chances to see Puppetry of the Penis in Australia with some of the original cast.

One of the two first Puppeteers is David, ‘Friendy’, Friend, who is eager visit Airlie Beach and get some “warm weather on my genitals”.

“I’m getting my cape out of storage and dusting off the equipment,” he explained.

“Nacho and I know what we’re doing and are ready to give the genital origami lovers of Airlie Beach a show.”

His Puppeteer co-host is Greg, ‘Nacho’, Chivers, a seasoned performer of the show.

Nacho joined the roster in 2007, after hearing a radio callout advertising the position.

“It was a beautiful, organic transition,” he explained.

Having been already doing bits at hen’s nights and private parties, it was a seamless transition.

“It just grew from there – not literally! And now I’m dusting off the cobwebs and getting ready for the resurrected show.”

While he will be performing some of the classics, “Grandmaster Friendy” also has some of the newer bits up his sleeve.

Nacho’s favourite part of the show is seeing the smiles of people unable to stop laughing.

“The laughter is amazing, and seeing generations of women sharing laughter is fantastic.

“To have a giggle with your mother, and grandmother, your daughter, it’s so healthy and amazing.

“It’s put the show into a whole new light for me.”

According to Nacho, the “understated charm” of the show is what has people coming back for more.

From memory, the last time Puppetry of the Penis had been in Airlie Beach was on the first leg of their 1998 Australian tour, and Nacho and Friendy are revving to go.

“The show will be our greatest bits, with all the best classics,” Friendy said.

“It’s always funny to laugh at some genitals.

“Plenty of people want to see genitals, so we’re ready.”

Over the years, these boys and their family jewels have seen a lot and been through more than most, with Friendy even sustaining damage to his package, after plopping himself down on a lady’s lap during one show and not realising she had a corkscrew in her pocket.

After a brief stint of bedrest and taking it easy, Friendy was back at the show, and none was the wiser about the indescribable trauma.

For the Airlie Beach Hotel show, Nacho and Friendy will also be hosting Dick Trick University, welcoming anyone up on stage to learn how to perform the Hamburger, and showcase their new skill to an excited audience.

“So, get ready Airlie Beach, loosen those belts and show the audience what you’ve got,” Friendy laughed.

“We’re looking at training the next generation,” Nacho said.

With Airlie Beach warming up, Nacho and Friendy are ready to perform.

“The weather’s a bit cool in Melbourne, the shows are always a bit shorter in winter,” Friendy said.

WHAT: Puppetry of the Penis: Res-Erected

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Wednesday, October 18, from 7pm

TICKETS: whitsundaytickets.com.au

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Creators of Puppetry of the Penis David Friend and Simon Morely launched the performance in 1998

Having seen a massive success, the performance has travelled internationally

Celebrating all things penis and male genitalia, Puppetry of the Penis has shocked and surprised audiences across the globe

Supporting his infamous moustache, David Friend is ready to bare all for Airlie Beach

Through some unfortunate genital origami, the infamous Puppeteers are hard workers, and the show must go on. Photos supplied

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At Proserpine Community Market

Absolutely jampacked full of some of the best handmade and locally produced jewellery, pillows, baked goodies, crockery, and decorations, the Proserpine Community Markets are any treasure hunter’s delight.

Happening only every three months, this quarter’s community market is gearing up to be an event not to miss, with new stalls welcomed, as well as Wildlife Whitsundays Encounters bringing the weird, the wacky, and the wonderful animals for all to see and interact with.

“There is so much entertainment for kids!” Tarnia Patton, Market Coordinator, explained.

“The Wildlife Encounter is perfect for kids, and I use the term ‘kids’ loosely; it’s great for kids of all ages!”

This quarter’s fundraising recipient is Dannielle Hanns, who is running to support and raise awareness for Kidney Health with Red Socks Run.

Throughout the month of October, Dannielle will run, walk, or ride 60 kilometres for the 60 hours that people affected by kidney disease need to spend on dialysis each month.

“We find it important to support local charities and local people,” Tarnia explained.

“Dannielle shares her story, which we find inspiring, and we appreciate. She is doing something really good, and raising awareness for a health issue that is often overlooked.”

These Community Markets are the second last of the year, with the following market scheduled for December 10.

WHAT: Proserpine Community Market

WHERE: 69 Marathon Street, Proserpine (Old St Catherine’s Campus)

WHEN: Sunday October 8, from 8.30am to 12.30pm

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So much to discover and see at Proserpine Community Market this October. Photo supplied

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Over 3000 people browsed the Hand Made Markets, held at Fair Tree Park on the Airlie Beach Foreshore on Sunday, with many picking up a unique item or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere of this vibrant event.

With 32 stalls, the markets offered a variety of handmade wares including pottery, candles, jewellery, and homewares.

This year for the first time, organisers also incorporated a food element to the event.

“Food is one of the most important handmade items!” said festival coordinator, Jade Richardson.

“It was so wonderful to see so many locals come on the day and there was an incredible atmosphere, a great vibe and all the stall holders told me they had a successful day.”

The Hand Made Markets operate under the umbrella of the Whitsundays Arts Festival which has moved to a bi-annual event but would usually be held around this time each year.

Jade said that following the success of their first standalone event, she is keen to organise a Christmas Markets in Proserpine later in the year.

Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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The glitz and glamour is coming to Bowen, with the annual Bowen Cup making our spring perfect.

Dressed in your best and taking to the race course, Bowen Turf Club will be the place to be.

For those wishing to ease the day away, perhaps The Field VIP Marquee package, sponsored by Filby’s Motors Mitsubishi is perfect.

Including an exclusive drinks package, gate entry, access to the VIP Marquee and so much more, as well as an up-close look at the Bowen Cup Fashions of the Field.

The Brown Brothers Premium Trackside Marquee is a great option for those who wish to be close to all the track action.

Including gate entry, access into the Trackside Marquee, and five standard drinks of beer and wine, this is a great premium package for those wishing to have a good energy day, watching the races carefully.

Outside of packages, the Bowen Turf Club has everyone covered, with six local races, a bar and a myriad of delicious food vendors, the Grand View courtesy bus, and TAB and bookmakers available onsite all day.

And don’t forget to get your ticket for the bus, ensuring no one is a designated driver and everyone can have the best time on the Bowen fields.

Get your tickets while you can, as this is sure to be an outstanding day of quality racing.

WHAT: Bowen Cup

WHERE: Bowen Turf Club

WHEN: Saturday October 14

TICKETS: whitsundaytickets.com.au and available at the gate

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October 14 is gearing up to be an awesome day at the Bowen Turf Club

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The King Is Back At Proserpine Entertainment Centre

The Proserpine Entertainment Centre is looking after the Whitsundays, with the king of swingers, Rhydian Lewis and his band, The Residuals, gracing the stage, bringing the absolute charm and perfection of Frank Sinatra with them.

Dedicating and catering his craft to lovingly recreate the charisma of Frank Sinatra, Rhydian’s performance is intimate and personal, creating the allure of times gone past.

Set against a captivating backdrop of classic and iconic stories and pictures, the audience is swept up, encompassed in the unmissable and most recognisable voice and face in American history.

Featuring and showcasing many of the hits, including Come Fly With, The Lady Is A Tramp, Fly Me To The Moon, I’ve Got You Under My Skin, That’s Life, My Way, and the theme from New York New York, this show will be a highlight of the season.

WHAT: Morning Melodies: King of the Swingers – Sinatra Through The Years

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

WHEN: Thursday, October 12, from 11am

TICKETS: proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

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Rhydian Lewis and The Residuals are pushing us back in time with classic tunes. Photo supplied

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Friday 29 September

Electric Dreams Karaoke Lounge

9pm – 1am

Where you are the star! You love to sing, McGuires has the songs.

Accepts functions and group bookings. | Free entry.

McGuires Hotel, Mackay

Full Moon Party

From 9pm

Neon lights and jelly shots, FREE glow gift on arrival, UV face painters, prizes and giveaways.

The Rabbit Hole, Mackay

Mr Q (Live) @ The Burb

6:30pm – 10:30pm

Join for a night of live music entertainment. | Free entry.

Souths Suburban Bowls Club, Mackay

Saturday 30 September

Mackay Showground Markets

6am – 10am

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

Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.

Mackay Showgrounds

Jumbo Sale

7am – 1pm

Lots of bargains, as well as stalls for plants, cakes and crafts. A sausage sizzle and morning tea will be available. All welcome, with proceeds going towards the Bowling Club. | Free entry.

Marian Bowls Club

Falun Gong Classes

Every Saturday from 10am

Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.

The meeting place is under the Mango Tree on the Tropical Sun Lawn (near the café).  Please bring a yoga mat (or similar) and wear comfortable clothing.

For more information, please contact Catherine Campbell on 0417 193 309 | Free entry.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Aeroflow Outlaw Nitro Funny Cars

Gates open 8am | Racing from 12pm – 9pm

Make sure you are here to watch these awesome machines battle it out.

NITRO passes will be at 4.00pm, 6.00pm & 8.00pm.

Full fields of support classes with everything from Supercharged Outlaws to Junior Dragsters!

Pits are open to all spectators. | Tickets available from mackaytickets.com.au

Palmyra Dragway

Rhythm and the Reef 2023

1pm – 9pm

Your 2023 lineup includes Lime Cordiale, Example (UK), Go-Jo, Discovery, Clovr, Giant Palms, Late November and Cherry.

Licensed for All Ages | Get tickets at rhythmandthereef.com

Bluewater Quay, Mackay

Sunday 01 October

Mackay Swap Meet and Community Markets 2023

6am - 12pm

Over one hundred stalls, bursting with all sorts of fascinating odds and ends. You’ll discover car, truck and bike parts, cool memorabilia, and a range of tools for all trades.

Not only that, but there will be plants, clothing, woodwork and bric-a-brac stalls, too! No matter what you are searching for, you’re sure to find it there.

All proceeds from this event will be donated to support local charities. | $5 entry fee

Mackay Showgrounds

Monday 02 October

Neon Sip & Paint

2pm – 4:30pm

During this fun session, draw the curtains and turn out the lights to paint under UV lights and bring neon artwork to life. All art supplies provided, with easy to follow instructions.

Shared nibbles platter included. BYO Drinks, ice and glass ware provided.

Min age 16 years and must be accompanied by participating adult. | Find tickets online.

The Creative Art Studio, Shop 1, 3 Ungerer Street, Mackay

Tuesday 03 October

Morning Melodies

11am - 1pm

Enjoy a morning of fun, food and entertainment with Morning Melodies at the Leagues Club with Anette Worthington performing live once a month!

The cafe will be open from 10am & the bistro from 12pm.

Souths Leagues Club, Mackay

Sunrise Bootcamp

5:15am

To kick start our return to group fitness classes, Double M Fitness have their Sunrise Bootcamp at Lamberts Beach.

Don't forget your towel! A post workout dip in the ocean is on the cards.

Buy tickets at doublemfitness.com.au

Lamberts Beach, Mackay

Wednesday 04 October

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

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 05 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

The Butcher’s Ghost

9pm – 10pm

Come on a haunting journey into a ghost story that lies hidden in your home town!

The Butcher's Ghost is waiting for you on this unique self-guided ghost hunt adventure.

Are you ready to follow the clues, solve the puzzles and unlock the projections that will lead on your way - all with your mobile phone?! Take the lead in a unique paranormal investigation and discover the shocking twist in the tale!

You require a fully charged, internet enabled mobile phone or tablet, headphones or earbuds, and a car to participate.

Book tickets via the-thousand-interactive-5896.myshopify.com

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Mackay Swap Meet and Community Markets 2023

Rhythm and the Reef 2023

Electric Dreams Karaoke Lounge

Full Moon Party @ The Rabbit Hole

Aeroflow Outlaw Nitro Funny Cars

Morning Melodies

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This October will mark 15 years of the Choir of Unheard Voices, who are celebrating with a concert that is not to be missed.

Margaret Ross has spent the years witnessing the power of singing, for people in our community who are dealing with mental illness and disability.

In 2008, the Choir of Unheard Voices began as a way to reach into the closed spaces of the people who came to sing. They had their very first performance that year, to mark Mental Health Week.

In 2009, the choir travelled to Sydney to open at the International Mental Health Nurses Convention, as well as performing at Parliament House in Brisbane.

Over the years, the choir organisation has performed at over 400 community events, even staying resilient through Covid-19, livestreaming to keep the sound of music alive.

Many years have passed and many challenges have presented, but Margaret has been determined to keep the choir singing, right up until now, marking fifteen years.

This week, the Choir of Unheard Voices will celebrate this incredible milestone.

They will take you on a captivating journey, with the joy and laughter that has come from singing together. The choir will weave through their fond memories in a lyrical waltz, sharing stories and songs to give you an experience where music exists and nothing else matters.

Join the Choir for their fifteen-year celebration concert on Sunday 1st October at 2pm, Northside Uniting Church on Bedford Road.

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Some of the members of the Choir of Unheard Voices, 2023.

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Created for athletes and the Mackay/Whitsunday community, Capricorn Muscle & Fitness will host a new bodybuilding competition at the MECC in October.

The Mr & Ms Capricornia Bodybuilding Competition provides amateur athletes and the Mackay/Whitsunday community the chance to compete and support their favourite athletes in a local competition.

The event is organised and run by the production team from Capricorn Muscle & Fitness, a brand associated with CAPSA PTY LTD.

The team found that limited local bodybuilding competitions exist in Mackay and that both new and established bodybuilding athletes could benefit from a new local competition.

With no cost to compete as an athlete, both male and female athletes can compete in a range of discipline areas for division championships and the final titles of Mr or Ms Capricornia.

The judges are current and former bodybuilding athletes and will assess athletes throughout the day.

The day will start for ticket-holding patrons at 12.30pm on Saturday 28 October with complimentary refreshments and tea/coffee provided.

Patrons will then attend the bodybuilding competition’s remaining schedule to cheer on their favourite athlete and see who wins the titles of Mr or Ms Capricornia.

What: Mr & Ms Capricornia Bodybuilding Competition

When: Saturday 28 October 2023

Where: MECC Auditorium

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

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With the semi-finals of The Voice 2023 coming to a close, Moranbah’s sweetheart, the beautiful Bella Mackenzie was unfortunately eliminated from this years’ national singing competition.

On Sunday night, Bella performed a unique rendition of Australian icon John Farnham’s ‘Two Strong Hearts’. She dedicated her performance to her late grandfather, ‘Feno’.

On her Facebook page, Bella stated, “We found out that Pop had cancer a week before my blind audition and we lost him not long after that.”

“He taught me everything I know about dreaming big and putting in the hard work every day to chase those dreams and if someone tells you ‘no’, you’re asking the wrong person.”

Bella thanked her family for travelling to see her perform, ending her heartfelt message with: “This one is for you, Pop.”

After Bella’s incredible performance, Rita Ora exclaimed, “I am always excited to see you, I’ve always looked at you as the full package. I’m really proud of you.”

Jason Derulo went on to say, “Bella, you were on fire tonight. I’ve seen you on fire before, but tonight you knocked it out of the park.”

Guy Sebastian ultimately chose Charlie Pittman to move onto the finals, commenting, "Bella, I know there's a lot of people watching through this journey that love country music that have really connected with you.”

Guy also stated, “I really wanted Bella to just show her country heart tonight. We worked on so much through mentoring, you should be so proud.”

Bella’s main hope was to spread the message that ‘no matter where you come from, you can do anything you set your mind to.’

“I wanted to inspire rural and country kids to believe in themselves and go for their dreams!”

To keep up with Bella Mackenzie, visit her website www.bellamackenzie.com.au or find her on social media at @bellamackenzieofficial.

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Over 200 people checked into the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre’s R U OK Day celebrations, with more than 10 local organisations gathering to create a mini street in the carpark, promoting mental health and suicide prevention.

“This year, we also targeted our messaging to a male audience,” Coordinator of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, Stephanie Cora explained.

The Hillery Group attended on the day and representatives promoted Real Mates Talk, a Whitsunday, Isaac and Mackay organisation which tackles the alarming statistic that three-quarters of deaths by suicide are men.

Whitsunday Regional Councillor Michelle Wright also joined the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre team, assisting with each of the services and supporting the day.

“It is always a great event, with each service stepping up and helping out,” Cr Wright said.

The Whitsunday Regional Council is a strong supporter of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, having supported the R U OK Day celebrations for the last four years.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Julie Hall said Council have been a proud financial supporter of the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre R U OK Day event for more than four years.

"In our Whitsunday community, we believe that mental health matters every day, and that's why we're proud to stand with local groups on R U OK Day to help foster conversations that can change lives,” she said.

"As a Council, we are proud to support R U OK Day because it aligns with our community values of caring for one another. Together, we can create a culture of openness and support.

"The power of conversation is so important to break down barriers, reduce stigma, and offer hope to those who may be struggling.

"R U OK Day reminds us that a small conversation can have a big impact.”

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Mark Steen, Stephanie Cora, and Whitsunday Regional Councillor Michelle Wright

Stephanie Cora and the Bowen Neighbourhood Centre team

Liberty Rural Team rocking TradeMutt mental health shirts

Hillery Group making fresh cinnamon donuts and promoting Real Mates Talk

Stella Life Care sharing mental health within individual support. Photo Credit: Bronte Hodge

Forward-thinking and proactive, Year 10 student Jayla Battis has taken her future into her hands, following her week of work experience led by Bowen State High School.

During her work experience week with real estate agency LJ Hooker, Jalya approached both the business and the school, proposing a school-based traineeship and Certificate III in Business.

“I was looking into real estate,” Jayla explained.

“Another student started a traineeship and I thought that was really cool, and I wanted to get into that.

“I started the work experience, and I was so nervous, but I absolutely loved it.”

Completing the traineeship alongside her school work, Jayla has a newfound appreciation for school.

“It’s made me want to go to school more, because I have something to look forward to. The rest of the week just flies by.”

“I’m loving it so much. It’s definitely an eye opener.”

By the time she graduates Bowen State High School, in two short years, Jayla will have her real estate license and a Certificate III in Business.

“My ultimate goal is to open my own real estate agency, but first I want to go overseas and work in a real estate agency overseas.”

Jayla’s proactiveness has impressed Bowen State High School principal, Robert Harris.

“We offer career expos, work experience opportunities and connections with industry for students and parents to engage with, but to have a student be so forward thinking is exciting,” he said.

“We talk how things won’t just come to you, you have to reach out, and through Jayla’s work experience, she has reached out. That confidence and forward-thinking is really cool.”

Raylene Doyle, Office Manager and Business Owner of LJ Hooker said that the system is fantastic, putting students ahead before they even graduate Year 12.

“Jayla is the youngest trainee I’ve had, and she is mature, keen, and committed. At this stage, she will be certificated by mid-Year 12, and be ahead of her classmates.”

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Bowen State High School student Jayla Battis with Raylene Doyle of LJ Hooker Bowen. Photo supplied

Fire dancers, crab races, Hawaiian food, and plenty of barefoot dancing on the sand – the upcoming Tiny Homes Project fundraiser, Get Lei’d Hawaiian Party at Cape Gloucester Resort, is shaping up to be an entertaining event for the whole community to enjoy.

Emceed by comedian Brad Elliot, the whole evening is guaranteed to be full of hilarious moments that will make raising money for such a worthy local cause even more fun.

There will be plenty of auction items up for grabs and other opportunities to donate, such as raffles and party-themed merchandise.

Tiny Homes Project is raising money to help with the construction of four tiny homes in Proserpine dedicated to housing homeless women over 55.

With the help of government grants, Whitsunday Regional Council donated land and Whitsunday Housing, who is the driving force behind the charity, the team are ready to begin building at the end of the year.

Every cent raised at the Tiny Homes Project fundraisers goes straight into the pot, helping the overall project reach its goals quicker.

Guests at the upcoming Get Lei’d fundraiser will enjoy not only a wonderful evening of dancing and merriment, but also the knowledge that every cent they spend is going to a worthy cause.

Each guest will be greeted by a cocktail on arrival and are encouraged to come along in their best Hawaiian-themed attire – the most flamboyant tropical shirt or a colourful straw skirt – and the best dressed will be celebrated with special awards for both Best Hawaiian Male and Female Outfit.

During the evening, there will also be live music from GForce and ViVa Acoustic, both bands made up of talented local musicians who always get people off their seat and the dancefloor packed.

Other entertainment includes the Crab Races, which are sponsored by KC’s Bar & Grill who are well-known for hosting exciting crab races at their lively bar in Airlie Beach and cannot wait to bring this special event to the fundraiser.

With the fire dancers twirling their flames, the live music packing the dancefloor and the crab races getting the crowd pumped, the event is set to be both thrilling and fun.

Free buses are departing Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, and Proserpine, whisking partygoers to the event which starts just before sunset at 5pm.

With the event coming to a close at 10pm, the free buses will escort everyone home safely.

For those that wish to stay, there are camping options available nearby.

Celebrated as one of the best locations for a beach party, Cape Gloucester Resort is looking forward to welcoming partygoers from across the region.

The Tiny Homes Project would like to thank their sponsors, Airlie Fitness, D & C Mechanical Electrical, Whitsunday Transit, Cape Gloucester Resort, Fierce Signage and Airlie Events.

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Cape Gloucester Resort will host the Get Lei’d Hawaiian Fundraiser. Photo supplied

‍KC’s Bar & Grill are sponsoring the evening’s Crab Races. Photo supplied

Fire dancers will entertain the crowd. Photo supplied

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