The Gospel Garden Party is approaching, featuring a variety of entertainment highlighting classic easy listening gospel music, from the familiar and well-loved tunes to the occasional original.

This spring celebration promises to be a wonderful afternoon of classic gospel and gardening glory.

The members of the Mackay Anglican Community have been growing plants from their own gardens as a special project to be on display and for sale at the event.

With completely free entry, there will also be an afternoon tea available, and all are invited to join.

Attendees can rest and revive in the glory of the north Queensland spring, while listening to a variety of classic gospel entertainment from a variety of local performers from children to golden oldies who know the tunes well.

Expect pure and simple gospel tunes from solo performers, duos and trios.

Giant checkers will be on the lawn, and blessings are available in the church.

For more information, please contact either Kristi at admin@mackayanglicans.org.au or Niki at nikipower21@gmail.com or 0411732304.

WHAT: Gospel Garden Party

WHEN: Saturday, September 9 from 2:00pm

WHERE: In the gardens to the side of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Gordon Street, Mackay

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Friday 1 September

M&P Services and Key Solutions Group 8th Annual Charity Golf Day

Friday, 11:00am

A charity fundraising event for corporate businesses to enjoy with work colleagues and friends to raise funds for local charities. The event is booked out every year with regular supporting sponsors.

Mackay Golf Club

Shirlz Russell Book Launch Party

Friday, 6:00pm

Join in to celebrate with Shirlz Russell, co-author of "The New Rules of Wellness" in the official hardcopy book launch held at Kitten Vintage, Mackay. The New Rules of Wellness holds 23 stories from health professionals challenging the status quo in their chosen industries, with one of these experts being Mackay local Shirlz Russell, property investment coach and founder of Build Your F’empire. Learn about her thoughts on "Embracing your inner worth; you don't need external validation to shine". Enjoy an evening of mingling with likeminded individuals, with complimentary drinks, a grazing charcuterie table, live entertainment, meet and greet, as well as a complimentary signed copy of "The New Rules of Wellness".

Kitten Vintage Mackay

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Randy Feltface // Feltopia

Friday, 6:30pm

Randy Feltface has spent the past eighteen years carving out a unique niche on the international comedy circuit. He was nominated for best comedy at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, played sold-out seasons in London and New York, and featured several times at the Montreal Just For Laughs Festival. Don’t miss Randy Feltface as he brings his Feltopia World Tour home to the Southern Hemisphere where he'll be stopping off at The Metropolitan Hotel, Mackay!

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Film & Arts Mackay September Film Night: Cairo Conspiracy

Friday, 7:30pm

The gripping and critically acclaimed new thriller from Tarik Saleh (The Nile Hilton Incident, The Contractor), follows Adam, a young man who is offered the ultimate privilege: to study at the Al-Azhar University in Cairo. Shortly after his arrival in the city, the university’s highest-ranking religious leader, the Grand Imam, suddenly dies and Adam becomes a pawn in a ruthless power struggle between Egypt’s religious and political elite. As he struggles to balance a range of competing interests that favour different leaders, he soon finds that he must fight for his very survival as the succession intensifies.

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

Mackay Musical Comedy Players presents Little Shop Of Horrors

Friday, 8:00pm and Saturday, 2:00pm and 8:00pm

Mackay Musical Comedy Players, Mackay's very own not-for-profit Musical Theatre group, have returned! A deviously delicious Broadway and Hollywood sci-fi smash musical, Little Shop Of Horrors has devoured the hearts of theatre goers for over 30 years. This popular tongue-in-cheek comedy tells the story of Seymour Krelborn who stumbles across a new breed of plant he names "Audrey II" after his co-worker crush. This carnivorous plant promises unending fame and fortune to Seymour as long as he keeps feeding it!

MECC

Saturday 2 September

QCWA Calen Branch Springtime Festival

Saturday, 1:30pm

Come on down to St Helen’s Bowls Club for the QCWA Calen Branch Springtime Festival. Free horticultural competition, best colourful spring outfit, guest speakers, afternoon tea, lucky door and more. $10.00 entry. For more information call 0421923820 or 0408694706.

St Helen’s Bowls Club

Sunday 3 September

Father's Day Family Fun Day

Sunday, 8:00am

Celebrate this Father's Day with the Seabreeze Hotel for a day full of food, entertainment and epic activities for everyone. Grab the Father's Day Lunch Deal or go in the draw to win our Ultimate Dad Pack, including a BBQ, meat voucher and a carton of Byron Bay Beer. Buffet breakfast, kid’s activities, smoker on the lawn, craft beer bar, face painting, Mudpuddles ice cream van, petting zoo and live entertainment from

Mick Woodbridge and Significant Other plus the Slade Point School Raffle.

Seabreeze Hotel

Rock Paper Scissors Art & Design Market

Sunday, 1:00pm to 4:00pm

Artspace Mackay's ever-popular Art & Design Market returns in 2023 in the beautiful outdoor space of the Civic Precinct. Join for a free curated market featuring a fabulous selection of stalls highlighting the talented artists, designers, makers, and foodies of our region.

Artspace Mackay

Monday 4 September

Australia A vs New Zealand A

Monday to Thursday, 2:00pm to 9:00pm

Cricket Australia has selected the Great Barrier Reef Arena to host an exciting cricket series between Australia A and New Zealand A men's teams. The four day, day-night game will take place from September 4 to 7, followed by a thrilling One Day game on Sunday September 10, all with free entry.

Great Barrier Reef Arena

Tuesday 5 September

Bell Shakespeare's Twelfth Night

Tuesday, 7:30pm

Viola is shipwrecked and believes her twin Sebastian lost to the ocean. Washed up in a strange new land, determined to survive, Viola disguises herself as a man named Cesario and finds work with Duke Orsino, only to fall head over heels in love with him. But Orsino is in love with Olivia, who – grieving for her brother – refuses all offers of romance. Until, that is, she meets Cesario for the first time. A whirlwind of passion ensues, leaving no one unaffected, not even Olivia’s prudish housekeeper Malvolia, played by Jane Montgomery Griffiths (A Midsummer Night’s Dream). Heather Fairbairn’s fresh retelling of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy is a dark collision of hidden identities and unrequited love. Featuring all-new music by Sarah Blasko, Twelfth Night ultimately asks us to find light in the darkness.

MECC

Wednesday 6 September

Party in the Park

Wednesday, 9:00am to 11:30am

Party in the Park aims to celebrate and raise awareness of Child Protection Week. The morning will showcase the wonderful children’s services and organisations Mackay has to offer for children ages 0-6 years. There will be a petting zoo thanks to Mad Animal Addiction, face painting and glitter tattooing, and three jumping castles. The Rotary Club of Mackay will also be providing a free sausage sizzle. Dozens of service providers will be holding fun interactive activities and displays.

Queens Park

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 & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. It's a space to honour the uniqueness of each individual, everyone is equal. They will be able to speak from their hearts about things that trouble, annoy, frustrate them. 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

The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce 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. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 7 September

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 desert.

Bluewater Quay

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The superstars continue taking centre-stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel, with the one and only Louie Lee Feltrin, also known as one of the best and most authentic Robbie Williams tribute performances.

And in an exciting event, the Airlie Beach Hotel is setting us up for a Friday night of fantastic entertainment, with a special evening show.

Louie has been perfecting his craft for years, stepping off the back of an unlikely start with the 2005 Channel 9 hit show ‘Starstruck’, a show dedicated to celebrity lookalikes who are transformed into the original singer and perform tributes to a panel of judges.

Now almost 20 years on, Louie has continued to follow Robbie’s path to stardom.

“It’s just steamrolled. I didn’t think I looked like Robbie, but I thought ‘I’ll give it a go’ and now here I am!” Louie explained.

In fact, it could be said that Louie is a bit too committed to the show.

“More like over committed,” he said.

“I work on it a lot, and even my tattoos are very similar. I used to get them painted on, but that was costing too much, so I just got very similar tattoos done.”

No stranger to the Airlie Beach scene, Louie is hoping for a huge crowd to rock out the best tunes of Robbie.

The Airlie Beach Hotel will be running rampant, with us having ‘No Regrets’, singing along to the best tunes and Louie’s smooth vocals.

And he doesn’t shy away from the tribute scene:

“The more you drink, the more I look like the real Robbie!”

While Robbie is quite tall and handsome, and Louie is self-reportedly not, the Robbie Williams experience is one for everyone, with the tunes and lights sure to convince you that the real Robbie Williams in performing on stage.

“It’s all the hits, to make a fun night. We make sure our show is just like if you were to see Robbie Williams live. He makes the show an experience, and so do we.

“We want people to walk away wondering if they actually just saw Robbie Williams performing or if it was just me.”

The audience will be taken on a journey, with ‘Angels’ to be the biggest highlight of the evening.

And don’t worry superfans, ‘Angels’ is permenantly on the set list, because “If I don’t play it, I get bashed.”

This is one show to check out at the Airlie Beach Hotel this September.

WHAT: The Robbie Williams Experience Friday Night Special

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Friday September 8, 7pm to 10pm

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WHAT: The Robbie Williams Experience

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday September 9, 2pm to 5.30pm

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Louie Lee Feltrin with his Angels, readying for the Airlie Beach Hotel night of nights

With almost 20 years of Robbie Williams experience, this is not the show to miss

Prepare to be amazed at Louie’s dedication and charisma, embodying Robbie Williams

The Airlie Beach Hotel is ready to shine. Photos supplied

The Whitsunday Arts Festival has just gotten better, with the highly anticipated Handmade Markets being announced, culminating in a packed week of lively arts and entertainment.

Taking on Fairy Tree Park, on the Airlie Beach Foreshore, the Handmade Markets are sure to be a treasure hunter and décor lover’s delight, with extensive stallholders with artworks, homewares, goods and gifts crafted locally, on display for all to see.

From soaps, stained-glass art, handcrafted jewellery and paintings, there is something for everyone.

But the fun doesn’t stop there, with live entertainment, workshops, and delicious food stalls sure to entice every shopper, catching with fantastic smells, and exciting creations.

A joint collective hosted by Whitsunday Arts Festival and Whitsunday Creatives, this market will be the one-stop-shop for all things home and hand made.

Celebrating the wide array of creators, artists, and merchants in our region, this Handmade Market is one of the best opportunities to talk directly with the artist and learn anything and everything about their art.

Organiser Jade Richardson, founder of Whitsunday Creatives, said that she is thrilled with the opportunity to co-host the handmade markets.

“This market represents the heart of our Whitsunday creative community and I can’t wait to see the exceptional quality of art, crafts and food vendors that will be present on the day,” she said.

“The line-up is already looking incredible! It’s going to be such a great day not to be missed!”

WHAT: Handmade Markets

WHERE: Fairy Tree Park, Airlie Beach

WHEN: Sunday September 24, 8am to 2pm

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Jade Richardson from Whitsunday Creatives will co-host the Handmade Markets. Photo supplied

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Mexican-Australian Fusion On The Airlie Esplanade

With a sea of colourful umbrellas catching the eyes of passers-by, the new location of Airlie’s popular Mexican Restaurant, Mika, is now open and ready for business.

In the heart of the Airlie Beach Esplanade, Mika can be found upstairs at Beach Plaza, extending the full length of the first floor, and offering stunning sea views from almost every table.

With large shade sails, the restaurant is completely weatherproof, and the gentle sea breeze creates a relaxing climate for all to enjoy.

Brought to you by local restauranteurs, Ivan Cortes and Aaron Paull, the foodie-duo first established their popular Mexican burrito bar, Orange Quote, over 10 years ago.

Back then, Mexican food was not well-known in North Queensland but over the years this has changed.

“Now everyone knows the food and loves the cuisine!” said Ivan.

Bursting with fresh, home-made sauces and salsas, everything on Mika’s menu is made from scratch and packed with mouth-watering flavours.

From sizzling Fajita plates to burrito bowls, quesadillas, and tacos, Mika offers classic Mexican dishes infused with an Australian twist.

They also serve tender steaks, Mexican parmis, crisp salads, and chicken wings.

An impressive 95 per cent of Mika’s menu is gluten free and there are also vegan options available.

Strong believers in creating all cocktails from scratch, Mika’s mixologists love creating margaritas and have seven different flavours to choose from.

They also serve a variety of other cocktails, signature sangrias, beers, wines, and other spirits.

With available seating for over 200 people, the restaurant is always lively, and the vibrant Mexican-themed mural art creates a colourful ambient setting that everyone loves.

Whether you are heading out for a budget-friendly family night, a group of friends grabbing a pre-party bite, or a couple looking for an intimate dining setting, Mika can create a special and memorable experience for you.

Did you know?

Happy Hour is daily from 4pm – 5pm

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Ivan Cortes and Aaron Paull from Mika

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Each week, there are miners, part time teachers, engineers, mums, speech pathologists, Church Leaders, GP’s, and part time chaplains who all volunteer their time to deliver Christian Religious Instruction to our local state schools – a 30-minute lesson where children can explore faith and values.

Then we have our biggest group of volunteers, our amazing retirees (with a lot of past teachers and teacher aides) who bring a lifetime's worth of experiences and seasoned lessons of faith through the approved program.

They become valued Grandparent figures in the life of a school, bringing a highly valued multi-generational element to the children’s educational experience.  

The majority of parents in our region have decided to access the program for their children, realising the importance of a holistic education.  

However, in order to continue to meet the demand, we need more instructors!!

Could this be something that you may be willing to do?  

Do you have faith in Jesus, regularly attend a church and would be willing to do the training?  

Or would you be able to allow the program to move forward?  

There are many different ways to support the Christian RI program – please contact me at jay-ellen.wright@christianri.org.au or visit https://christianri.org.au if you would like to instruct or find out how you can support Christian RI in Mackay and surrounds!

Jay-ellen Wright

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Friday 25 August

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Choirboys

Friday, 6:00pm

Don't miss this unmissable show as Choirboys perform all your favourites, all their hits, all night long. Celebrating over 4 decades together, Choirboys’ back catalogue has a swag of enduring rock anthems including Never Gonna Die, Big Bad Noise, Fireworks, Gasoline, Midnight Sun, Rendezvous, Boys Will be Boys, Struggletown and one of this country’s unofficial anthem, Run To Paradise. Doors open from 6:00pm, Choirboys from 8:00pm.

The Seabreeze Hotel

Open Mic Comedy Night

Friday, 7:00pm to 11:00pm

Last Friday of the month, Open Mic night is on again. Sammy Cole is headlining this month, and Brenden Hayles will be hosting. If you want to try stand-up comedy in a supportive environment, message Mackay Open Mic Comedy Group on Facebook.

Ambassador Hotel

Saturday 26 August

Mackay Disc Sports Come & Try League Day

Saturday, 8:00am to 12:00pm

Come along and learn/play disc golf. One or two rounds of nine baskets on the pop-up course. Prizes for different divisions thanks to sponsors Mt Pleasant Tavern and Kingfisher Disc Golf. All ages and abilities welcome. Meet at the Playground at John Breen Park (Gooseponds). $5 per person. Disc Hire is $10 refundable deposit on return of discs. Anyone under 18 will need a guardian to accompany them. Closed in shoes required.

John Breen Park

Mackay Christian College Open Day

Saturday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Join for an exciting Open Day event, where unlimited ride tickets ($35) are available for purchase at Junior and Senior Reception. Don't miss the Powerhouse Auditorium, where the school will showcase the memorabilia of their Alumni.

Mackay Christian College Junior Campus

Insane Cane Train

Saturday, 4:00pm

The Sugar Shed, the 2013 premiership winning Cutters squad and Insane Cane Train – three sugar-themed products of Mackay that the region can be proud of. When six people from differing walks of life and musical backgrounds met in a South Mackay shed to play music, they formed a bond that only playing music in a suburban shed can create. Now, months later, Insane Cane Train are excited to share what they’ve been working on at their debut gig at Red Dog Brewery on August 26. Expect a blend of rock and roll, pop, indie and good times. So, remember: Use your train brain and look out for Insane Cane Train. Dom Pinzone performs from 4:00pm and Insane Cane Train from 6:00pm.

Red Dog Brewery, Chain Street

Elvis - The Sounds Of The King

Saturday, 7:30pm

Get ready to travel back in time to the golden age of rock n roll with the Elvis: The Sounds of the King. Join the Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club on Saturday the 26th of August for a spectacular 2-hour live performance, featuring 2023 European Elvis Championship Finalist Tristan James as Elvis Presley.

Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

Sunday 27 August

Motorcycle Beach Races

Sunday, 9:00am

Join in for an exhilarating and unforgettable experience at the longest-running, pulse-pounding event in the Mackay region! For over 90 years, the Motorcycle Beach Races has been igniting the skies with the sheer thrill of methanol-fuelled action, set against the backdrop of the stunning tropical paradise. Don't miss out on this extraordinary event that has captivated generations!

The Esplanade, Grasstree Beach

Sunday Live Music – Mango Junction

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.

Seabreeze Hotel

Sunday Afternoon @River Wharves

Sunday, 3:00pm to 6:00pm

Sunday Afternoon @River Wharves, near Paxtons. A relaxed arvo of fun kid's activities, cool tunes, and yummy food. 3pm - 5pm Free Kids Activities including Carlie's Fascinating Faces Face Painting Mackay and Plaster kids - make a free Father's Day pressie. Live music from Jonte and the EST No.8 food van.

River Street, Mackay

Soweto Gospel Choir

Sunday, 7:30pm

Hope is an all-new concert by 3-time Grammy-winning Soweto Gospel Choir - celebrating songs and anthems from the Freedom movement of Nelson Mandela’s South Africa, back to the Civil Rights Movement of Martin Luther King’s 1950’s America. Formed to celebrate the unique and inspirational power of African Gospel music, Soweto Gospel Choir draws on the best talent from the many churches in and around Soweto. The choir is dedicated to sharing the joy of faith through music with audiences around the world and has received critical acclaim and audience adoration for their powerful renditions of African American spirituals, gospel, and folk music.

MECC

Wednesday 30 August

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 & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. It's a space to honour the uniqueness of each individual, everyone is equal. They will be able to speak from their hearts about things that trouble, annoy, frustrate them. 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

The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce 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. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four-step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 31 August

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 desert.

Bluewater Quay

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Choirboys

Mackay Disc Sports Come & Try League Day

Elvis - The Sounds Of The King

Motorcycle Beach Races

Soweto Gospel Choir

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Film & Arts Mackay present their next film night for the month of September, a viewing of the 2022 political thriller ‘Cairo Conspiracy’.

The gripping and critically acclaimed new thriller from Swedish filmmaker Tarik Saleh (The Nile Hilton Incident, The Contractor) follows Adam, a young man who is offered the ultimate privilege: to study at the Al-Azhar University in Cairo.

Shortly after his arrival in the city, the university’s highest-ranking religious leader, the Grand Imam, suddenly dies and Adam becomes a pawn in a ruthless power struggle between Egypt’s religious and political elite.

As he struggles to balance a range of competing interests that favour different leaders, he soon finds that he must fight for his very survival as the succession intensifies.

Awarded best screenplay at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival, Cairo Conspiracy takes a rugged look through the lens of corruption, power, and politics in one of the epicentres of Sunni Islamic power.

The film will be screened in Arabic with English subtitles.

WHAT: Film & Arts Mackay September Screening: ‘Cairo Conspiracy’

WHEN: Friday, September 1 from 7:30pm (doors open from 7:00pm)

WHERE: Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music

TICKETS: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1105738

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Calen QCWA invites you to their Springtime Festival, a celebration of horticulture, friendship and sunshine.

The Springtime Festival will incorporate a free horticultural competition across many classes, best colourful spring outfit competition, guest speakers, afternoon tea, a lucky door prize and more.

Entry is $10, which includes afternoon tea, and children are free.

There will also be a cent sale and snap raffles throughout the afternoon.

For more information, call Diane on 0421 923 820 or Gail on 0408 694 706.

WHAT: Calen QCWA Springtime Festival

WHEN: Saturday, September 2 from 1:30pm

WHERE: St Helens Bowls Club

ENTRY: $10, children enter free

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Artspace Mackay welcomed three new exhibitions last weekend with two local creatives showing alongside a nationally acclaimed video installation artist.

Artspace Mackay’s new suite of exhibitions are Zanny Begg: These Stories Will be Different, Kara Day: Ladylike and Stephen Homewood: Turbulence.

Zanny Begg is a video installation artist who works across drawing, film, social and spatial practice to explore questions of feminism, migration and ecological and intergenerational responsibility.

Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood said the team were excited to have Zanny Begg’s work at the gallery.

Ms Heathwood said Zanny Begg’s exhibition would appeal to a wide audience because her works told fascinating stories in creative and original ways.

“‘These Stories Will be Different’ brings together a fascinating series of works, including one that probes the unsolved murder of a high-profile anti-gentrification campaigner in Sydney in 1975.

“The work, called The Beehive (2018), looks at the story of Juanita Nielsen, who campaigned against the violent eviction of tenants from Kings Cross and Potts Point.

“Nielsen was last seen entering a venue managed by one of Sydney’s most notorious crime bosses.

“What’s fascinating about this work is how Zanny uses an algorithm to create a randomised video installation that allows more than 1344 versions of the story to unfold, each with a unique insight into this unsolved mystery.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to see two Mackay artists opening in the gallery alongside Zanny Begg.

“Mackay-raised artist Kara Day works across textile, sculpture and watercolour; and while the portraits in this exhibition (Kara Day: Ladylike) can be confronting, they are also really thought-provoking,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Stephen Homewood, who is also a Mackay artist, works in an experimental style that’s really colourful and abstract,” he said.

“His recent works on paper showcase turbulent waterscapes that combine two signature coastal Australia icons – the shark and the surf lifesaver.”

Zanny Begg: These stories Will be Different will be on show until November 12 and Kara Day: Ladylike and Stephen Homewood: Turbulence will be on show until November 5.

Follow Artspace Mackay on Facebook or head to artspacemackay.com.au for more information.

Zanny Begg | These Stories Will be Different is a UNSW Galleries and Museums & Galleries of NSW touring exhibition. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

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Zanny Begg, The Beehive, UNSW Galleries, Photo credit: Steven Siewert

The ‘iron-y’, putting the finishing touches on Kara Day’s exhibition, Ladylike

Artist: Stephen Homewood

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Following Near Misses With Children

Following numerous incidents at a nearby car park, Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) has shared their concern for children’s safety in an open letter to Mackay Regional Council.

The letter, penned by Eimeo SLSC President Cynthia Hegarty, suggests a risk management plan for the car park, located between the clubhouse and Eimeo beach, requesting a boom gate to be installed at the entrance.

Eimeo SLSC President Cynthia Hegarty said that the car park is often used by children to get from the clubhouse and toilet block to the beach, creating the risk of a collision with a vehicle and causing further issues for the Surf Life Saving Club’s beach patrollers.

Just last season, a campervan almost reversed over a child at a Nippers event on a Sunday morning, stopped only by the intervention of a vigilant parent.

“Over the past few years, we have had a number of near misses with vehicle to person interactions on Nippers days in the carpark directly in front of the Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club,” said Ms Hegarty.

“A core foundation of the Eimeo SLSC is rigorous risk management to protect our members and the public.

“We have consulted our members and the general public on ways we can manage the risk of vehicle to person interactions in the carpark between the club house and the beach.

“The consensus is that an Engineering Control of a boom gate is required to effectively control this risk when there are children around.

“The Club has previously used signage in an attempt to control the risk with limited effect.”

Ms Hegarty hopes the installation of a boom gate will enable the club to restrict vehicle access in the carpark during events where children are present.

The club is in the process of organising an e-petition to support the request.

Vehicle operators are reminded to be aware while navigating the car park and to do so using courtesy and caution.

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Eimeo SLSC warns car park users to be vigilant on event days. Photo supplied

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Local Band To Debut At The Brewery

If you disregard how often some of the members indulged in a cold pale ale at Red Dog Brewery, it’s a beautiful coincidence that Insane Cane Train’s first ever gig will take place at the same location the band was conceptualised.

Lead singer and guitarist Dom Pinzone is a seasoned performer at the Chain Street brewery, his sets often involving everything from Ball Park Music to Neutral Milk Hotel.

With a drum kit packed up in the corner of his apartment and a strong desire to write music with other people, Dom met Sam Gillespie and discovered he played drums and had a shed to practise in, so Mackay’s newest band was formed.

“I love playing in a band as opposed to playing solo,” Dom said.

“There is this fantastic feeling hearing each member nail their part that will ever get old.”

The pair went on to recruit their friends Lainie Tilse on the keyboard, Gilbert Gray on lead guitar, Bennett Hardwick on bass and Hannah Walsh on vocals, creating a full, tight and impactful sound that has been fine-tuned with intensive band practise, especially over recent weeks.

“We definitely had to kick preparations up a gear,” Dom laughed.

“I sprung the gig on the band only a month and a half out so I'm probably responsible for a bit of stress.”

Dom cited three motivations for what was to become Insane Cane Train: firstly, an old bandmate from Brisbane.

“I think he's a genius and I appreciate him and his insight into not only music, but all aspects of life,” Dom said.

“Second is the budding Mackay music scene – I’m constantly impressed by the events and bands around town and feel a strong pull to get involved.

“Lastly but certainly not least; the band, the mates, knowing these beautiful people who just happen to also have amazing talents and share a passion for music.”

Dom Pinzone will take the stage at Red Dog Brewery this Saturday, August 26 from 4:00pm, with Insane Cane Train to perform from 6:00pm.

“Expect songs that are infectiously conducive to good times,” he said.

“Expect unbridled bopping to the debut of our first original song.

“Expect a twist on what unimaginative people may call ‘relatively simple content.’”

WHAT: Insane Cane Train

WHEN: Saturday, August 26 from 4:00pm

WHERE: Red Dog Brewery, Chain Street

This is a free event

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Local musician Dom Pinzone will front a new band performing at the brewery this weekend

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MACKAY COUNCIL ENCOURAGES NOMINATIONS TO SPORTING HALL OF FAME

By Sinead Porter

When you hear the term ‘dedicated to sport’, who in your life instantly springs to mind?

You can now recommend your top pick from the local community to Mackay Regional Council’s Sporting Hall of Fame.

This institution has been developed to recognise the region’s residents who have made outstanding achievements in their sport.

No matter your age or skill level, if you have made an impactful contribution to your sport, the Mackay Regional Council would love to hear about it!

Mayor Greg Williamson said the hall of fame wasn’t just for athletes, but also leaders, officials, support staff and coaches.

“With our state set to host the 2032 Olympics, we decided that now was the perfect time to highlight the Mackay region as a sporting powerhouse,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We have so many tremendous athletes, coaches, support staff and officials who have represented Queensland and Australia in various sports, as well as Olympians, Paralympians and Commonwealth Games representatives,” he said.

“Not only will the hall of fame provide recognition to those who have achieved great things in their sporting endeavours, it will also provide inspiration to up-and-coming sports people.

“It will allow them to identify their role models and show them that regional athletes can make it to the highest echelons in sport.”

Mayor Williams hopes to see the Sporting Hall of Fame showcase the ‘many amazing athletes our region produces’ and ‘attract more funding for development of our coaches, athletes, officials and sporting infrastructure.’

Successful nominations will receive a certificate from the Office of the Mayor and their name, photo and achievements will be displayed on the Mackay Sporting Hall of Fame website and other council media and facilities where appropriate.

Nominations for the hall of fame are now open and the form is available online at:

mackay.qld.gov.au/halloffame

Nominations will be accepted at any time, with applications considered on a quarterly basis.

Applicants are encouraged to read the eligibility criteria before submitting a nomination.

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Mayor Greg Williamson with young athletes from the North Mackay Athletics Club during construction of the ARC

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The Dittmann Bucking Bulls Returns

The high thrills and exciting spills of Dittmann Bucking Bulls is back for 2023 and promising to be a PBR not to miss.

Already a massive event on the PBR calendar, Dittmann Bucking Bulls and Bull Pit is known for having a fantastic display of human strength against these massive animals, to the sound of loud cries and even louder applause.

Prepping with rodeos in the region, these seasoned pros are more than ready to give us Whitsunday locals a fantastic show.

Expect the best of the biggest bulls and the ultimate shows of strength, determination, and grit as these courageous riders compete to beat the beasts and each other on the night.

This family friendly affair is a massive event on the PBR calendar, with camping available for keen attendees.

And don’t miss the official PBR After Party featuring Bad Influence, with a variety of food trucks, market stalls, kids rides and live music, beginning from 7pm.

WHAT: Dittmann Bucking Bulls and Bull Pit

WHERE: 145 Midge Point Road, Bloomsbury

WHEN: Saturday August 26

TICKETS: https://bit.ly/3QCD9vx

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Prepare to be entertained by these courageous thrill seekers, taking on the bucking bulls. Photo supplied

Show And Shine

This Weekend

Head on down to Banjo’s Bar and Grill this Sunday for the second iteration of the Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club ‘Show and Shine’ car, bike and four-wheel drive display.

The last event, held in March this year, attracted over 45 vehicles and organisers are hoping for the same again.

WHAT: Show and Shine

WHERE: Banjo’s Bar and Grill

WHEN: Sunday, August 27

TIME: From 10am

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Our ever-ambitious local state school is taking on, not only one of the best children’s books ever written but also one of the best musicals in the world, with its upcoming adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Matilda.

This classic children’s story was given an edgier, modern reincarnation when it was transformed into the multi-award-winning stage performance written by Dennis Kelly and Tim Minchin.

With sing-along songs that many will remember, a feisty cast of characters and a relatable school setting, tickets are already selling fast for what is expected to be a sell-out event.

Over 200 students from every year level are participating in the musical, either as the on-stage cast or back-stage in areas such as lighting and sound.

Rehearsals have been a big part of the lives of both students and teachers over the past few months and everyone in the school community is looking forward to seeing all their dedicated hours of practice come together in front of the audience.

Matilda Jr the Musical tells the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a sharp mind and a vivid imagination, dares to take a stand to change her story with miraculous results.

She is a girl who loves reading and is inspired by her favourite teacher Miss Honey to overcome obstacles caused by her family and school and especially by the villain headmistress Miss Trunchball.

WHAT: Matilda Jr The Musical

WHERE: Cannonvale State School

WHEN: Friday, September 8 at 6.30pm

Saturday, September 9 at 2pm and 6.30pm

TICKETS: SCAN THIS CODE

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The cast of Cannonvale State School is excited to perform their interpretation of Matilda Jr The Musical. Photo supplied

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