Mackay extended a warm welcome to a group of 15 students and two chaperones hailing from its sister city, Matsuura in Japan. The students embarked on an engaging cultural exchange program, immersing themselves in the vibrant spirit of the sugar city for a week-long visit.

During their stay, these young visitors had the opportunity to delve into the heart of the region, soaking in its diverse offerings and forging connections with local families who kindly hosted them.

A highlight of their journey was the official welcome extended by the Mackay Regional Council, which took place last week. The students were warmly greeted by the council's staff, as well as Mayor Greg Williamson and CEO Scott Owen.

Throughout their stay, the students explored various facets of the region, including iconic landmarks like 'Buffy' the giant cane toad in Sarina, the Sarina Sugar Shed, and the Sarina Youth Centre. The journey also encompassed visits to the Mackay Art Society Inc and Holy Spirit College Mackay, providing the students with a glimpse into the local art and educational landscape.

As the students bid farewell to their Mackay hosts, expressions of gratitude, or "Arigatou," reverberated through the air. The cultural exchange program served as a bridge between two communities, fostering understanding, appreciation, and lifelong memories.

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Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Meanwhile In Matsuura…

This Australia-themed park is located in Matsuura City, Nagasaki Prefecture, to celebrate the sister city relationship with Mackay. Local children can learn all about Australia as they play on the kangaroo bouncer and platypus slippery-dip.

Photo source: Consulate-General of Japan, Brisbane

Join The Conversation For The Future Of Arts In Our Region

For those whose inclinations gravitate toward the cultural tapestry, the harmonies of music, the strokes of artistic ingenuity, the narratives of the theatrical realm, or the boundless expanse of creativity in all its forms, a remarkable avenue presents itself to exert influence over the shaping of our locale.

In other words, speak now or forever hold your brushstroke!

Mackay Regional Council is currently undertaking community consultation to create a new Mackay Region Arts and Culture Plan.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council was passionate about enhancing our region’s liveability.

“Arts and culture are intrinsically linked to the liveability of our region,” Mr Williamson said.

“The arts entertain us; they make our lives more vibrant, interesting and exciting; they challenge us, make us think and often evoke an emotional response.

“A region without culture or the arts would be a very dull place.

“Luckily, our region already has a vibrant arts and culture scene – we have amazing festivals, a diverse art collection, a state-of-the-art theatre showing a range of local and travelling productions and we have an arts development program that is always working to foster up-and-coming creatives.

“What this Arts and Culture Plan will do is allow us to fine tune our efforts.

“We want to identify any gaps in the region, be they geographical or types of art and culture that residents feel we don’t support sufficiently. We would also like to hear where we are doing well – so we can keep doing it.

“If you feel that your part of the region misses out, now is the time to let us know; if you feel there are better ways we could be fostering grass-roots creative projects, we want to hear them, and if you want to see more of a particular type of art, now’s the time to make your voice heard.”

Having your input on the direction of arts and culture in our region is easy – simply head to connectingmackay.com.au. Once there, you can complete a short online survey or register to join a face-to-face focus group session. The survey closes on Sunday, September 17 at 11.59pm.

Face-to-face sessions will be held on:

● September 4, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Jubilee Community Centre, Alfred Street

● September 5, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Badila Art and Craft Gallery, Elsie Nash St, Pinnacle

● September 6, from 9.30am to 11.30am at Jubilee Community Centre, Alfred Street

● September 7, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Council Client Service Centre, Broad Street, Sarina

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If you want to see more of a particular type of art, like paste-ups and street

art (pictured with artist Muddy Grimes and assistant), now is the time to make your voice heard

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The "Clean up Mackay Region" initiative got off to a strong start last weekend, with three days of successful efforts. The community came together with enthusiasm to ensure our region remains pristine. Now, three more opportunities are on the horizon, taking place this upcoming weekend and throughout the following week.

Mayor Greg Williamson praised the community's commitment, highlighting how these events help us take pride in our area and work together for its beauty. The initiative reflects our collective determination to maintain the region's appeal.

This year's initiative comes with an added appreciation from the council. For each person who participates, the council plans to plant five native trees—street trees or for revegetation.

As we collectively focus on preserving the natural beauty of our region, "Clean up Mackay Region" highlights the power of working together for a cleaner and greener community.

Clean Up events remaining:

Saturday, August 19

● Freshwater Point – 9am to 11am

Sunday, August 20

● Grasstree Beach – 9am to 11am

● North Wall Beach – 9am to 11am

Wednesday, August 23

● Harbour Beach – 9am to 11am

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Deputy Mayor Karen May was joined by staff from Mackay Airport and other volunteers to ‘clean up Mackay’ during the inaugural event

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The Collinsville community are roaring and ready to go for their ninth annual Bacon Busters event which is due to take place this weekend and is anticipated to be the biggest and best yet.

For almost a decade, Collinsville’s vibrant country culture has been displayed at it’s best through this event which brings the community together to raise funds for the local state school.

Attendees can sit back and watch a variety of events or, for those spirited and experienced in the art of pig-hunting, can participate in the Bacon Buster biggest boar competition.

Registered as pests, the wild boar in the area is free game to hunting enthusiasts and the skill of killing the beasts has become a popular sport in the area.

While some may view this as a bit barbaric, this is a staunch and accepted part of local culture.

The event, however, is more than a hunting competition, at its heart it is a fun family day out that brings everyone together.

There will be a variety of additional activities including dog-jumping, ute pulling and iron-man competitions.

Kids will also enjoy many free events and there will be plenty of entertainment, food, and merriment.

The much-anticipated Bacon Busters weigh-in, however, is a highlight of the event.

Over the past six years the local P&C organised event has raised over $100,000 for the school and proceeds are put towards funding school excursions or extra equipment.

Each year, the P&C choose a local charity to also benefit from the event and this year RACQ CQ Rescue has been selected.

WHAT: Collinsville Bacon Busters

WHERE: Collinsville Football Grounds

WHEN: Saturday, August 19

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Councillor Michelle Wright with the youngest competitor and his dad at last year’s event. Photo: Facebook

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With a newly renovated pool open for guests to enjoy, Kipara Tropical Rainforest Retreat has completed the next stage in its revitalisation, welcoming guests to indulge in the tranquil pool grounds, with new tiles, decking, and pool furniture.

Kipara also boasts a suite of new villas, which were specially designed for the Retreat and are located near the fully equipped outdoor camp kitchen and dining area which was constructed in December last year.

With three tiers of premium secluded accommodation, Kipara is only minutes away from the Airlie Beach CBD, set in the beautiful tropical rainforest setting of Jubilee Pocket.

“It’s got a serene rainforest feel and friendly wildlife like our goannas and our curlews,” explains Retreat Manager, Sarah Bowden.

Nestled in nature, but complemented with creature comforts, there is something for every guest at Kipara.

Each private room comes with its own ensuite and has plenty of features including a bar fridge, a TV and extensive storage.

Families can enjoy a two-bedroom villa with living room and fully furnished kitchen, with beautiful bespoke furniture and décor.

For smaller groups there is also the option of the one-bedroom retreat with similar features in a slightly smaller space.

No matter if you’re on a couple’s getaway, a family holiday, or a group adventure, Kipara can accommodate all your holiday dreams.

Looking after every aspect of a weekend getaway, the team has extensive local knowledge and can book dinner or lunch reservations, local tours or even just taxis to get around town.  

“We love it here and we want all our guests to love their time here, at Kipara, and in Airlie Beach,” said Sarah.

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Great Wine And The Amazing Billy Field

The Belvedere Food and Wine Bar at the Toscana Village Resort is inviting the Whitsundays to a special one night only dinner and performance featuring the iconic Billy Field.

An intimate group of 40 attendees will enjoy the sweet tunes of this iconic Australian singer-songwriter.

This is a special performance while he is in the area for the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, a unique opportunity to see the music legend in an intimate setting, away from the crowds.

Bringing you the best of his eclectic music with inspirations from rock, RnB, and jazz, and showcasing his musical talent on the resident grand piano, all of which blend to make an evening of musical delight, coupled with a taste sensation of great food.

The Belvedere’s culinary mastery has garnered a reputation for excellence and showcases a menu that marries the flavours of Italy and France.

This highly regarded restaurant is relaxed yet refined with a tranquil elegance, perfect for a romantic evening and musical delight.

From exquisite share-style dishes to carefully curated wine pairings, each element is meticulously crafted to delight even the most discerning palate.

The creative bartenders are equally adept, conjuring up cocktails that astonish and please.

And while enjoying the beautiful vocals of Billy Field and the impeccable service of Belvedere, stay the night in the tranquil ambiance of Toscana Village Resort.

Allow the serenity to wash over you, and prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey, where terracotta architecture, warm hospitality, and the coastal charm of Airlie Beach unite to create a truly unforgettable experience.

The resort's self-catering apartments provide spacious accommodations, ideal for both relaxation and convenience.

However, it's the panoramic vistas that truly captivate the senses.

Each apartment offers a front-row seat to the awe-inspiring beauty of the region from the large balconies.

For those seeking tranquillity amidst nature, the resort's meticulously landscaped gardens offer a serene sanctuary. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and scents of the lush flora or find a quiet nook to enjoy a good book and let time slip away.

Enjoy a beautiful evening getaway, with the sensual sounds of Billy Field, as the sun slips away, and the menu is delivered with perfect elegance and intrigue.

WHAT: Billy Field Live At The Belvedere, Toscana

WHERE: Toscana Village Resort, 10 Golden Orchid Drive

WHEN: Thursday, November 9

TICKETS: $140 per person

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Iconic Australian singer-songwriter Billy Field for one night only at The Belvedere Restaurant and Bar

Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of The Belvedere under the cascading starlight overlooking the Coral Sea with Billy Field

Beautiful accommodation with serene tranquillity, stay the night at the Toscana Village Resort to complete this romantic evening. Photo supplied

For many years, the fate of the “Llewelyn”, which disappeared off Queensland waters in 1919, remained unsolved, until ……… on August 28, 1998, ‘The Daily Mercury’ reported that a Mackay diver, Mark Earney had solved the 79-year-old maritime mystery when he discovered the wreck near Bees Island.

It was almost intact and was resting in a vertical position.  

The “Llewelyn” was an iron steamship of some 350 tons, 112ft long, 19ft 6inches wide, and 9ft 2ins deep. Built in Chester, England in 1884, it was engaged in pilot service in the port of Brisbane.

During this time, it narrowly escaped foundering in heavy seas at Cape Moreton and was declared by a well-known mariner to be unsuitable for use in heavy seas.

Consequently, the State Treasurer, Mr Barnes, took steps to safeguard the lives of seamen on this steamer by issuing instructions forbidding it to be put to sea in rough weather.

On July 16, 1919, the “Llewelyn” departed from Rockhampton enroute to Bowen, making a port of call at Cape Capricorn on July 17 and leaving there that same day.

Based on the report by Captain Wilson of the “Florant” of “a terrific sea … and wind of gale force” in the area which did not abate for “a couple of days”, it is believed that the ship struck a bad storm with strong south-easterly gales.

It appears the warnings of the ship’s unsuitability in rough seas was well-founded.

Early searches by Captain Wilson and others between Mackay and Bowen located very little wreckage despite their search lasting a week during which time they walked around the coastline of every island, each wearing through two boots in the process.

A hatch cover of the old type used on vessels such as the “Llewelyn” was found and Captain Wilson, who had served on the “Llewelyn” some years previously, was of the opinion that the wreckage was part of the ill-fated steamer.

Mr Busuttin from St Bees Island, an 18-year-old at the time, reported seeing lots of wreckage passing north around July 25, 1919, and recalled, many years later, that he had picked wreckage off the beach at St Bees as well as a bell bearing the name “Llewelyn”.  

Considering the weight of the bell and its inability to be able to float, he believed that the wreck would have had to be very close to shore.

Mr Busuttin also stated that the bell “was cursed with the number 13” - a number dreaded by sailors of earlier times who believed it would be certain cause of death and disaster.

Some reports say that there were thirteen aboard including two passengers - a commercial traveller, Will Bradford and Rowena Gordon who was a probationer nurse at Rockhampton Base Hospital travelling to visit friends in Proserpine then on to Bowen.

Rowena Gordon was born Rowena Sheen Ryan in 1900 but was brought up by her aunt Emily Gordon.

Her mother, Rebecca Sheen, had been in a relationship with William Harold Ryan who was a police constable in Proserpine and who went on the be the 6th Police Commissioner for Queensland.

Rebecca registered Rowena’s surname as “Sheen Ryan” making no doubt as to who the father was.

Sadly, Emily Gordon, nee Sheen, went on to commit suicide in 1944.

Rowena was well thought of as a very compassionate nurse with a bright future.

A nightie was found washed up on St Bees with the name “Gordon” stitched on it and also some dark hair in a life ring.

It was reported that she had been tied to the life ring, no doubt in the hope that her life would be saved.

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Coming off the back of wrapping up his newest project, Australian comedic icon Wil Anderson will be performing live at the Airlie Beach Hotel for one night only!

This show is set to be a roundhouse of laughter and gags, with Wil on the lookout for the best audience interactions that he’s ever faced.

In a unique first for Wil, the Airlie Beach show is set to include the best of his hilarious comedy.

“This show will actually be a bit of a combination of both scripted and improvisation, and there’ll probably be a little bit more talking to the audience,” Wil said.

“It’s quite exciting!

“We’ll just have some fun, everyone just wants to laugh, and talk about some interesting things,” said Wil.

“I try to be very conscious about not bringing old materials to new shows, and if you want to watch an entire show of mine, you can go onto ABC iView and watch it for free, but this is not that,” he said.

“This is a group of people getting out together, having an experience together, which is completely flavoured by the audience.”

With no expectations of how the show will go, Wil is excited to get a taste of Airlie Beach.

“And certainly, my intention will be to make sure it’s a really fun night for people, however that plays out,” Wil said.

“I’m happy with a few characters to be involved in the show, they’re always a bit of fun.”

Wil says he loves meeting different sorts of people and is always up for a bit of banter with the audience, especially the lively characters.

“At one of my most recent shows, I had this guy in the front row who was very proudly a plumber, and I was like ‘I cannot believe you made it to the show on time!’.”

But not to worry, Wil won’t call on you unless you look keen and eager.

“I’m not there to pick on you, I’m actually there to find out something interesting about you then refine it and have some fun with it,” he explains.

“It’s never about ‘you’re wearing a dumb shirt’ unless someone is a dickhead first and then I’m very happy to use my comedic skills to maintain a bit of authority over the room.”

“Don’t get me wrong, if they start it, I’m happy to finish it.”

“That’s the thing with comedy, it’s a conversation with the audience, it’s as much about listening as it is about talking.

“All these things are about having a conversation with the audience, and I always say, it’s a collaboration.

“We’re about to make comedy together, and the good news is, I do all the hard work, you don’t need to try to be funny, you just have to answer my questions and I’ll do the job and make it funny!”

For one night only, only at the Airlie Beach Hotel, Wil Anderson Live. Get your tickets while you can!

WHAT: Wil Anderson Live

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Wednesday August 23, from 7pm

TICKETS: www.whitsundaytickets.com.au

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For a first for Airlie Beach Hotel, the iconic Wil Anderson is coming and he is bringing his all

The laughs will keep coming, with exciting audience interaction

Be sure to not miss Wil Anderson Live at the Airlie Beach Hotel. Photos supplied

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Sound of Freedom follows Tim Ballard, a former Homeland Security Investigations operative, as he endeavours to rescue a young girl, Ricio, as she becomes embroiled with human traffickers.

Working as a Homeland Security Officer, Tim is becoming frustrated with arresting people in possession of child pornography, but not being able to rescue a single child from this situation.

After arresting a predator, Tim pretends to be a paedophile himself, in order to be able to meet with a trafficked child.

This is where he meets Miguel, a trafficked boy who is still missing his sister Ricio.

It comes to light that a nice-faced woman posed as a modelling agent and was able to separate the children from their parents.

Under the guise of a modelling contract, she was able to convince the children’s father of the legitimacy of her offer.

Vowing to find and return Ricio to her family, Tim embarks to Columbia, where he meets Vampiro, a former cartel accountant who now works to rescue children.

Setting up a team of other likeminded individuals, including a police officer, Tim is able to organise a sting operation and rescue a number of children from the modelling guise, however Ricio is not among them.

Rather, Ricio was sold to the Revolutionary Armed forces of Columbia, deep in the heart of the jungle.

Posing as doctors, the group infiltrate the army, however Tim enters the centre camp alone.

He discovers that Ricio is in the clutches of the rebel leader, known as The Scorpion, before he is able to free Ricio, and they escape into the jungle.

Tim returns Ricio to Miguel and their father, and the family go back to Honduras, with Tim returning back to the United States.

The film ends with Tim testifying before the United States Congress, which results in the American government being able to cooperate with foreign countries on trafficking investigations.

Telling the story of love, loss, and indescribable pain, Sound Of Freedom is touching and intimate.

Sound of Freedom will be released to the Bowen Cinema Friday August 25.

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Tim Ballard endeavours to rescue children from the hands of traffickers

Daly Bay Illuminate glows anew with a rescheduled date, following a weather-induced postponement during the last week of July.

The dedicated Mackay Festival of Arts team worked tirelessly to bring back the mesmerising displays to Queens Park from October 5 to 8.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the MECC and Festivals teams had done a tremendous job bringing the event back together.

“Daly Bay Illuminate features sprawling works by community artists and three big third-party displays that all needed to be available to come to our region at the same time – plus we needed a time when we could have the MECC available, so we could have a wet-weather backup,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Hats off to the team – this is going to be a fantastic event combining local, community-created artworks, the lighting magic of our MECC technicians and large-scale travelling installations,” he said.

Entry to this all-ages, illuminated wonderland will still be free.

The event will run from 6pm to 9pm each night and will feature the Lost Dogs’ Disco by ENESS as its major drawcard.

“This is an immersive installation of 16 dogs, some up to five-and-a-half metres tall,” Mayor Williamson said.

“There are four distinct characters, inspired by three dog breeds – poodles, bull terriers and dachshunds – that are curled-up, standing and even touching noses,’’ he said.

“As visitors journey through the colourful pack, the dogs’ coats light up and they greet passers-by with happy grunts to celebrate each new person’s arrival.”

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Friday 11 August

CASA Monthly BBQ

Friday, 10:00am to 12:00pm

Come down for a snag and a yarn.

CASA - Community Accommodation & Support Agency Inc.

Cinema Under the Stars

Friday, 5:30pm

Revisit the tradition of outdoor cinemas on the lawn at the Mackay Hospital Foundation’s 'Cinema Under the Stars'! This is the perfect event to gather your family and friends and roll out your picnic blanket. This Cinema Under the Stars will feature Oscar Nominated movie 'Mary Poppins Returns'! This will be a magical night not to be missed! Gates opening at 5:30pm. Tickets will be for sale at the gate for $5 each or $20 for a family. There will be amusement rides, raffles, food vendors and more! Something for the whole family.

Meadowlands Amphitheatre

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

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

Wake House Australia

Pierce Brothers 'In The Water' Single Tour

Friday, 7:00pm

Pierce Brothers are known for their high-energy performances and unique blend of folk, blues, and indie rock gaining fans all around the world. 2023 is set to be an unforgettable year for the boys, having released 'High & Unsteady' co-written by Tash Sultana in January, their follow up single 'In The Water' is set to be an absolute banger. With a setlist that includes both fan favorites and new material, this is a show that you won't want to miss. Whether you're a die-hard Pierce Brothers fan or simply looking for a great night out, this is the event for you. So grab your tickets now and get ready for an incredible night of music with the Pierce Brothers.

Seabreeze Hotel

Saturday 12 August

INXSIVE Live at Harrup Park

Saturday, 6:30pm

INXSIVE, the INXS Tribute Show appear live in concert at Harrup Park in South Mackay on Saturday the 12th of August as part of their Queensland tour, performing the greatest hits of Aussie Rock legends INXS in their high energy, audience engaging show. Book now and get set for an epic evening of INXS anthems performed live in concert by Melbourne band INXSIVE in a full production show. This is something that INXS fans and lovers of classic Australian Rock music will not want to miss!

Harrup Park

Forest. ‘Parts Work’ Tour w/ Exotic Potion Cookies and Systematic Machine

Saturday, 7:00pm

Celebrate the launch of the new Forest. album "Parts Work" with Forest and friends at Arcadia Bar. With a killer line up of alternative and progressive heavy acts including Exotic Potion Cookies and Systematic Machine, this show is one not to be missed.

Arcadia Bar Mackay

Sunday 13 August

Clean Up, The Mackay Region - Shoal Point

Sunday, 9:00am

Welcome to #SeaToSource, a project powered by Conservation Volunteers Australia and supported locally by BMA Hay Point Services, aimed at empowering individuals and communities to take action on one of the world’s most solvable environmental issues – ocean litter. In partnership with the Mackay Regional Council, you are invited to Clean Up, The Mackay Region! Come along to Hodges Road - Shoal Point on the 13th of August and do your part for litter pollution in Mackay. Bring sun safe clothing, a hat, and a water bottle. To register online visit: Make Booking (conservationvolunteers.com.au).

Hodges Road, Shoal Point

Konvoy 4 Kids Mackay

Sunday, 10:30am to 3:00pm

Join in the family fun! Over the last 10 years the Variety teams 69, 50 & AW409 in Mackay have proudly raised over $214,000 for children in need. Their biggest event is the annual Konvoy 4 Kids, a convoy of trucks that travel from Sarina Showgrounds along the Bruce Highway to Mackay Showgrounds before celebrating with a family fair. See the trucks roll in and enjoy free rides for kids, market stalls, food vendors and prizes to be won on the day.

Mackay Showgrounds

Passport to Airlie Mackay

Sunday, 2:00pm to 7:00pm

Join Airlie Beach Festival of Music, Bricklane Brewing and The Metropolitan Hotel as they search for Australia's best live and original emerging artists and find someone from the Mackay region to head to Airlie Beach Festival of Music in November.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Sunday Live Music – The Feels

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

Wednesday 16 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 17 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

Ash Grunwald

Thursday, 7:00pm

A journeyman, storyteller, and troubadour at heart, Australia’s foremost bluesman Ash Grunwald has announced a new National Tour to promote his forthcoming record – studio sessions featuring all your favourites – curated from a career spanning twenty-years.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

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Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 9th, as the Sarina Beach Coconut Festival returns for its 5th edition. This free and family-friendly event promises a day filled with excitement, entertainment, and a celebration of all things coconut.

The festival's main focus is on the serene coastline, adorned with an abundance of coconut trees, attracting visitors from all around the region. This year's event is bigger and better than ever, featuring international kite flyers, captivating entertainment, market stalls, and a wide variety of food options to indulge in.

As you stroll through the festival, you'll find numerous activities to keep the whole family engaged. Children can enjoy free train rides, face painting, a petting zoo, and jumping castles. Local singers will entertain the crowds, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The Sarina Beach Coconut Festival aims to create a relaxing environment where families can spend the entire day together. Moreover, all funds raised during the festival will support the Sarina Beach Progress Association, contributing to future community projects.

Thanks to the generous support of various sponsors, this event promises to be a huge success. However, there's still room for more sponsors to join in. If you wish to lend a hand, you can contact Roy at 0407745140.

The festival will offer a range of coconut-related activities, including palm weaving, de-nutting and de-husking fresh coconuts, and a tropical market for local produce shopping. Keep your eyes peeled, as you might even catch a glimpse of humpback whales on their annual migration.

The Sarina Beach Coconut Festival guarantees to cater to everyone's tastes and interests, promising a memorable experience for visitors of all ages. As you join in the fun, take in the beauty of one of Queensland's most stunning beaches.

What: Sarina Beach Coconut Festival

Where: Sarina Beach

When: Saturday September 9, 1pm – 6pm

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To celebrate the 400th anniversary of William Shakespeare’s play Twelfth Night, Sydney based theatre company Bell Shakespeare, will be visiting Mackay with a fresh retelling of the romantic comedy which captured the attention of audiences in 1623.

Those familiar with Shakespeare’s works recognise Twelfth Night as the playwright’s most musical play. It tells the story of Viola, who finds herself washed up in a strange new land and, determined to survive, disguises herself as a man to secure a position in the household of Duke Orsino.

MECC Manager, Andrew Bobeldyk, encourages audiences who are new to Shakespeare to come along and try something different.

“Bell Shakespeare has an uncanny ability to get an audience laughing at comedy and wit that was written centuries ago,” he said.

“First timers are always surprised at how much they enjoy their renditions of Shakespeare’s plays.”

Directed by Heather Fairbairn, who has worked internationally with companies including the Royal Opera House and the Royal Court Theatre in London, the production will feature original music from Aria Award winner Sarah Blasko, bringing a unique vision to Shakespeare’s most musical play.

Ms Fairbairn said, “I’m fascinated by the enigmatic nature of Twelfth Night, which transcends time and place.

“In this production, there is no specified setting which, coupled with the haunting nature of Sarah Blasko’s music, lends an otherworldly feel to the play.”

The Sydney based theatre company is also bringing student scholarship and workshop opportunities to the region with their Regional Arts Access (RAW) and John Bell Scholarship (JBS) programs.

For more information on the performance, RAW or JBS please contact themecc.com.au.

What: Bell Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night

When: Tuesday 5 September, 7.30pm

Where: MECC – Auditorium

Tickets: themecc.com.au

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Bell Shakespeare Twelfth Night Rehearsals. Photo Credit: Brett Boardman

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Holy Spirit College’s Class of 2023 were shining like the stars of yesteryear at their Formal on Saturday August 5. With the theme ‘Golden Years of Hollywood’, the red-carpet looks were simply sensational at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre. The Formal represents a time for Year 12 students to celebrate their final year of high school.

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(Back L-R) Harry Copley, Matthew Dorl, Nikolaus Djukic, Cooper Spencer, Benjamin Schembri, Balin Burnett, Krystopher Gakowski, Lachlan Dempsey, Kynan Day, Alexander Dlask, Harry Kirkwood, Cohen Murry, Bayley Holmstrom, (Front L-R) Rylan Misztela, Riley Marshall, Matthew Castorina, Tully Dee

(L-R) Blake Luckel, Jude Busby, Luke Wells, Alex Haworth, Seth Winters, Samuel Thomas, Cody Elgar, Lachlan Kerr

Ashleigh Filtness

Noah Miosge, Taj Rowler, Jackson Casey

Nash Mallise and Hayley Woodwell

Kaede Smyth, Jacob Janssen-Groesbeek, Ashalea Loveday, Emma Coyle

Georgie Gosper and Sam Riggs

Emily Parnis and Angelina Matthews

Douglas Pace, Bronte Vella, Kalan Morris

Cate Gauci, Summer Gilroy and Ella Steel

Andrew Kirkwood and Kira Atherton

Aiva Hovinga and Harrison Dries

Courtney Brooke

Laura Allen

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After his sold-out international ‘Cheers To That Tour’, Tik Tok star Luke Kidgell is heading to Mackay with his brand new show, Happy Hour.

Luke has amassed over 3 million fans online for his viral stand-up videos, often showcasing outrageous and quick-witted crowd interactions.

Luke is also known for co-hosting the Luke and Meg and the B.L.T. Podcast and for his multiple comedy specials which feature on YouTube and Amazon Prime. He started his YouTube channel in 2013. He has gone viral with his "you don't own me" videos, in which he humorously disobeys societal norms.

Now Mackay locals can attend the brand-new stand-up show at MECC this September.

“The show is literally called happy hour, I dunno, it will be fun. Just buy a ticket” - Luke Kidgell

You've seen him on the internet, now it's time to see him in real life on 13 September at the MECC.

What: Luke Kidgell – Happy Hour

When: Wednesday 13 September 2023, 6pm

Where: MECC – Auditorium

Tickets: themecc.com.au

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