The theme Beyond Beauty asks what happens when we move into story, emotion, memory, mystery, and revelation. Photo source: Facebook

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition is set to return to Airlie Beach in 2026, bringing together artists, creatives and art lovers from across the Great Barrier Reef region for one of the Whitsundays’ leading cultural events.

Presented by Creative Connections Whitsundays, the exhibition will run from 30th July to 2nd August at the Whitsunday Sailing Club as part of the annual Great Barrier Reef Festival program.

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Now entering its fourth year, the exhibition continues to grow in both scale and participation. In 2025, the event attracted more than 1,200 visitors, including 150 guests at the opening night celebration.

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The 2026 theme, Beyond Beauty, invites artists to explore deeper ideas of story, memory, emotion and connection beyond surface appearances. Entries are open to artists aged 16 years and over living throughout the Great Barrier Reef region, from Agnes Water to Cooktown, with submissions closing on 29th June 2026.

The exhibition will showcase more than 80 selected works across painting, sculpture and photography, with entries accepted in 2D, 3D and photographic categories.

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Creative Connections Whitsundays President Glenda Brown said the exhibition provides opportunities for both established and emerging artists to showcase their work to a wide audience.

An $8,000 prize pool will be awarded across several categories, including the prestigious Best in Show Award sponsored by Whitsunday Regional Council.

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What: Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition
When: 30th July – 2nd August 2026
Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club

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Whitsunday Christian College are set to put on a  show of great music and sentimental charm. Photo source: Facebook

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Whitsunday Christian College have been hard at work rehearsing for Peter Pan Jr.  

The musical will be performed at the school both Friday 15^th May and Saturday 16^th May, with both shows commencing at 7pm.  

Adapted from J.M Barrie’s classic 1904 tale of youth, sword fights and fairies, the musical features iconic songs “I’m Flying”, “I Won’t Grow Up” and “Never Never Land”.

Tickets can be found via the QR code attached. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to leave the Whitsundays and enter a world of magic, whimsy, wonder and awe.  

https://www.trybooking.com/DLIZJ

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The money will go towards important maintenance of the Meals On Wheels Proserpine headquarters. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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The Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club have made a donation of $5000 to Proserpine’s Meals on Wheels, with funds generated through the restorer’s annual car show which is held every September and will be returning to the Whitsundays region in 2026.  

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The Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club was formed by community members with a passion for restoration and preservation of cars and motor vehicles.  

The club’s iconic annual car show allows community members to put their vintage, restored and beloved cars on display, with the most popular displays earning the Old Iron Restorers Club trophy. Money is raised through tickets, raffles and entry to the food hall.  

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The money will go towards a new coal room, asbestos removal and general upkeep. The Proserpine Meals on Wheels Organisation operates across Proserpine, Cannonvale, Airlie Beach and Jubilee Pocket, providing hot meals to those in need. As a volunteer organisation they are dependent on donations, so contributions like these are vital.  

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Meals on Wheels deliveries also come with a friendly chat and welfare check to ensure people in need receive social connection and support.  

The Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club wish to continue supporting the community through their fundraisers. To date they have also helped fund the placement of headstones for the unmarked graves of return soldiers at the Proserpine Cemetery.  

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Did you know?

Local businesses can connect with Whitsunday Regional Council procurement opportunities through Local Buy — a platform that helps councils’ source trusted suppliers for goods and services. Applications are open now until 29 May 2026 for businesses wanting to become pre-qualified suppliers and access future Council quoting opportunities.

To find out more, search for Doing Business with Council on our website.

Voting is now open for the Small Tourism Town Award and will close 24^th May Photo source: Facebook

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Airlie Beach has once again been recognised as one of Queensland’s leading visitor destinations, earning a place as a finalist in the 2026 Queensland Top Small Tourism Town Awards.

Announced by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), the awards celebrate the towns, communities and tourism ambassadors helping shape Queensland’s reputation as one of Australia’s most desirable travel destinations.

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Airlie Beach is one of four finalists in the Top Small Tourism Town category, which recognises towns with populations between 1,500 and 5,000 residents. The Whitsundays destination joins fellow finalists Esk, Port Douglas and Cloncurry.

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QTIC Chief Executive Officer Natassia Wheeler said the awards highlight the communities delivering memorable visitor experiences and showcasing local pride.

“Every finalist should be incredibly proud of what they represent,” Ms Wheeler said.

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The awards, presented by Airbnb, also announced Stanthorpe, the inland town famous for its wineries, gourmet food, and stunning natural scenery, as the overall winner of the 2026 Queensland Top Tourism Town Award.  

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‘Small’ and ‘Tiny’ town winners are soon to be determined, with public voting now open. Results will be announced next month.

Locals, businesses and visitors are encouraged to support Airlie Beach by casting their vote before voting closes on 24th May 2026.

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Voting details are available via the Queensland Tourism Industry Council website.

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Photo source: Mackay AG Trade Expo

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Families and industry representatives turned out in strong numbers for the 2026 Mackay Sugar Ag Trade Expo held at the Mackay Showgrounds on Saturday 18th April.

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Running from 8.30am to 3pm, the event showcased the region’s agricultural sector while providing a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Children enjoyed a range of entertainment throughout the day, including a mini Ferris wheel, merry-go-round, ice cream van and petting zoo.

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The expo brought together exhibitors, growers and community members, highlighting the importance of agriculture to the region while offering plenty of activities that ensured visitors of all ages had something to enjoy.

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With more than three decades in the real estate industry, Greg Lewis has become a cornerstone of Blacks Real Estate and the wider Mackay property market.

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Joining the agency in 1990, Greg steadily built his career, becoming a licensed real estate agent in 1998 before stepping into a leadership role as partner and licensed auctioneer in 2000. His long-standing tenure has seen him work across a broad spectrum of clients, including private sellers, companies, mortgagees, receivers and government departments.

Greg’s expertise spans a diverse range of property transactions, with a particular focus on developmental sites, en-globe land opportunities, and both residential and commercial land sales. His depth of knowledge and hands-on experience have positioned him as a trusted figure in complex and large-scale property dealings.

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As Director of Blacks Real Estate, Greg continues to play a key role in shaping the agency’s strong presence in the Mackay region, backed by decades of industry insight and a commitment to delivering results for his clients.

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Friday 8^th May

Friday Colouring and Conversations

10am

Residents are warmly invited to join Friday Colouring and Conversations, a relaxed and welcoming gathering where creativity and connection come together. Held from 10am to 12pm at 37 Brisbane Street, Mackay, the small group meets regularly to enjoy colouring, conversation and community. All materials are provided, making it easy for anyone to take part. Simply bring along a water bottle and settle in for a friendly morning of art and social connection. New faces are always welcome to join the group.

37 Brisbane Street  

Saturday 9^th May

Free Baloon Crafting Workshop  

3pm

Families are invited to celebrate Mother’s Day with a free balloon crafting workshop at the Jubilee Community Centre on Friday, 8 May from 3pm to 5pm. The creative session offers children and families the chance to make colourful balloon gifts for the special mums in their lives. It is a fun and thoughtful way to prepare a handmade surprise while enjoying time together in a relaxed community setting. Bookings are essential via Admin@FreedClass.com

Jubilee Community Centre  

Highway Country Music Family Night  

7pm

Enjoy a relaxed evening of live entertainment at the Highway Country Music Family Night on Saturday, 9 May at Bakers Creek Community Hall. Starting from 7pm, the event welcomes locals and visitors alike to enjoy great country music in a friendly community setting. Walk-up performers are encouraged, with a backing band available if needed. Entry is $5 and includes a free supper. For more information, contact Betty on 0434 911 712.

Bakers Creek Community Hall

Sunday 10^th May

Mackay Breast Cancer Support Group

10am

Community members affected by breast cancer are warmly invited to attend the monthly meeting of the Mackay Breast Cancer Support Group at the Meeting Room at the Botanic Gardens. The gathering runs from 10am to 12pm and offers a welcoming, confidential space for patients and survivors at any stage of their journey to connect, share experiences and support one another. Morning tea is provided, and attendees are encouraged to bring a small plate to share and, if they wish, wear something pink. The event is free to attend.

Meeting Room at Botanical Gardens, Mackay

Illawong Beach Clean Up  

3pm

Community members are invited to help care for the coastline at a beach clean-up at Illawong Beach on 10 May. Volunteers will work together to remove litter while enjoying the outdoors and connecting with others who care about ocean health. Participants are encouraged to bring a hat, water bottle, enclosed shoes and sun-safe clothing. For more information contact Leah at lscoble@cva.org.au or 0436 335 037. The project is supported by BHP Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA).

Illawong Beach  

Monday 11^th May

Understanding Neurodiversity – Free Workshop  

9am

Attend a free Understanding Neurodiversity workshop with Mel from Empower 4 Success on Monday, 11 May from 9am to 11am at 43 Shakespeare Street, East Mackay. This practical session will explore how different brains think, learn and experience the world, while sharing evidence-based strategies to support wellbeing, inclusion and emotional safety at home, school and in the community. Participants will gain practical tools to better support neurodivergent individuals and build stronger connections. Places are limited and bookings are essential.

43 Shakespeare Street

Carer Drop-In Day  

9.30am

Carers are warmly invited to attend the Carer’s Drop-In Day at Gordon White Library, 54 Phillip Street, Mount Pleasant, from 9.30am to 12.30pm on Monday, 11 May. The relaxed morning offers a welcoming space to enjoy a cuppa, chat with others and take part in simple creative activities such as colouring or rock painting. There is no formal program, and carers are free to come and go at their own pace while accessing friendly support and information if needed. All carers are welcome.

Gordan White Library, Mount Pleasant  

Tuesday 12^th May

Yarning Circle With Aunty Lyn  

11am

Take part in a free Yarning Circle with Aunty Lyn on Tuesday, 12 May, from 11am to 1pm at 4 George Street, South Mackay. The relaxed gathering offers an opportunity to learn about Mackay’s local history, bush tucker and cultural traditions while sharing stories and connecting with others in a welcoming space. The session is proudly supported by the Macmahon Foundation, with registrations encouraged for those wishing to attend.

4 George St, Mackay

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Experience an inspiring evening of storytelling, reflection and celebration as Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival proudly presents The DBI Literary Dinner 2026.

The special event will be held on Friday 17th July at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre, with doors opening at 6.00pm and festivities continuing through until midnight. Guests are encouraged to secure their tickets early for what promises to be a memorable evening of powerful storytelling and elegant celebration.

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This year’s DBI Literary Dinner will feature special guest speaker Jelena Dokic, the Australian broadcaster and former international powerhouse of the tennis court, who will take centre stage to share her remarkable journey.

Jelena has emerged as a beacon of hope for many, courageously sharing her story through the pages of her two bestselling books, Unbreakable and Fearless, as well as through her multi-award-winning documentary. Through these powerful narratives, she reveals the raw realities of her childhood while reflecting on the transformative journey of reclaiming her voice and breaking free from the weight of the past.

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Her story speaks to the immense power of sharing lived experiences and the resilience that can be found when individuals confront adversity and rise beyond it. Jelena’s journey continues to resonate with audiences across the world, inspiring admiration for her courage, honesty and determination.

Guests attending the evening will enjoy welcome drinks followed by a three-course dining experience set within the elegant surrounds of the MECC. The evening will also include Jelena’s keynote address along with live entertainment, creating a vibrant and engaging atmosphere for all in attendance.

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Tickets are $225 per person, which includes welcome drinks, a three-course meal, the keynote address and live entertainment throughout the night.

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The DBI Literary Dinner has become one of the signature events of the Whitsunday Voices program, offering a unique opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the power of storytelling. The evening brings together literature, lived experience and shared inspiration in a setting that encourages connection and reflection.

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Guests are also encouraged to bring their dancing shoes, with the evening set to continue in celebratory style as the community gathers to enjoy the entertainment and atmosphere.

Organisers are encouraging the community to purchase tickets and be part of this iconic event where story and inspiration collide.

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Tickets are available to purchase via www.whitsundayvoices.com.au/dbi-literary-dinner

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Young artists explored creativity during the Paint with Kate school holiday workshops at Gordon White Library and Sarina Library, guided by artist Kate Kennedy. Photo source: Mackay Regional Council Libraries

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Young creatives across the region embraced colour and imagination during the recent Paint with Kate workshops hosted by Mackay Regional Council Libraries at Gordon White Library and Sarina Library.

The vibrant school holiday sessions welcomed children aged eight to 12 for a hands-on painting experience led by professional artist Kate Kennedy, who guided participants as they explored colour, creativity and self-expression.

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In a statement shared by Mackay Regional Council Libraries, the workshops were described as a bright highlight of the holiday program.

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A representative from Mackay Regional Council Libraries said, “The Paint with Kate workshops lit up both Gordon White Library and Sarina Library, filling each space with colour, imagination and big smiles.”

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Children were encouraged to experiment with paint while building confidence in a relaxed and supportive environment.

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“Kids aged 8–12 enjoyed a joyful, hands-on painting experience with professional artist Kate Kennedy, building confidence, experimenting with colour, and letting their creativity shine.”

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“Across both libraries, young artists rolled up their sleeves and proudly took home their very own masterpieces.”  

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“A huge thank you to Kate and to all our talented participants for making both libraries such vibrant places these school holidays.”

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Last year’s Festival of Arts program was launched at a special event at Artspace Mackay. Join in this year at the Civic Centre grounds on Friday 8th May. Photo supplied

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Mackay region residents are invited to get an early taste of what’s planned for the 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts at a launch event on Friday.

The event will take place at the Civic Centre lawn on Friday 8th May, at 6pm.

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Mayor Greg Williamson said residents are invited to join in the free event where they could pick up a program hot off the presses.

“Attendees on the night will be able to purchase early bird tickets to shows at a pop-up box office on site,” Mayor Williamson said.

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“Anyone who purchases a ticket on the night will go into the draw to win a fantastic prize,” he said.

“They will also be able to taste for the first time the new limited edition festival liqueur by the Sarina Sugar Shed.”

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There will be food, entertainment and a licenced bar at Foodspace, making it a fun evening for the whole family.

Mayor Williamson said the Mackay Festivals team has been working tirelessly for more than 12 months to bring together an amazing range of shows and events for 2026.

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“We keep them all under wraps until the program launch event, and I can guarantee festival goers will not be disappointed,” he said.

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The festival will run from July 1st to August 9th at venues all around the Mackay region.

The launch event is free to attend with the program available to pick up on the evening and at locations around Mackay from 13th May.

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Young people are invited to get creative and show their appreciation for first responders ahead of Thank a First Responder Day on 10^th June. Photo supplied

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Children and young people across the Mackay Shire are being invited to channel their creativity into a meaningful cause as part of this year’s Thank a First Responder Day.

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The Young Voices Art Showcase is calling on local youth to create artworks that celebrate and thank the first responders who work tirelessly to keep communities safe.

Whether it’s through a colourful painting, a striking photograph or a digital design, participants are encouraged to capture what first responders mean to them and their community.

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The competition highlights the important role emergency services play across regional areas like Mackay, where strong community ties and local support networks are essential, particularly during challenging times.

Themes include acts of kindness, appreciation and community connection, giving young people the opportunity to reflect on the impact of those who respond when it matters most.

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Two winners will each receive a $200 book voucher, but organisers say the real value lies in giving young people a voice and a way to show their appreciation.

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Entries close on 24th May, ahead of Thank a First Responder Day on 10th June. Visit fortemaustralia.org.au for more information.

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Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Glamour, generosity and a touch of 007 sophistication set the tone for the 2026 Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball, which returned in dazzling style at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre.

Widely regarded as one of the region’s most anticipated social events, the annual gala delivered an unforgettable evening of elegance, entertainment and heartfelt giving, with guests stepping out in striking Bond inspired fashion.

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Hosted by Australian comedian Dave O'Neil and featuring live music from Beccy & The Jets, the evening sparkled with high energy performances, lively auctions, casino style fundraising games and a dance floor that kept the celebration going late into the night.

Presented by Mackay Regional Council, the much-loved event once again showcased Mackay’s generous spirit, raising vital funds for two deserving charities.

Stylish, spirited and purpose driven, the 2026 ball proved the region’s signature red carpet event is only getting better with time!

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A Licence To Thrill For A Powerful Community Cause

At The 2026 Mayors Charity Ball

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Last Saturday evening, the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre shimmered with glitz and glamour as guests dressed in sharp tuxedos and 007-inspired gowns arrived for the 2026 Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball.

The Casino Royale–themed evening transformed the venue into a scene of elegance and intrigue, where every raised glass supported a greater cause. Guests stepped into a world of Bond-style mystery, with many agreeing the night was the best yet as attendees eagerly pursued clues in the interactive “Assassin” mission game.  

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Determined detectives studied their mission cards, scanning the room for subtle hints in hopes of identifying the hidden assassin and claiming the coveted prize.

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Beyond the intrigue, the evening served a powerful purpose, raising vital funds for The Salvation Army Family Violence Service and The Neighbourhood Community Hub Food Diversion Program.

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Guests enjoyed a three-course gala dinner with drinks flowing throughout the evening, while Brisbane band Beccy & The Jets kept the atmosphere vibrant on the dance floor. Much-loved comedian Dave O'Neil delivered laughs as master of ceremonies, blending humour, crowd interaction and sharp observations.

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With auctions, raffles and casino-style fundraising games adding to the excitement, the evening proved once again that Mackay certainly knows how to combine glamour with generosity!

See the rest of the photos in the gallery here:

Part 1: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/a-licence-to-thrill-for-a-powerful-community-cause-at-the-2026-mayors-charity-ball-part-1

Part 2: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/a-licence-to-thrill-for-a-powerful-community-cause-at-the-2026-mayors-charity-ball-part-2

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Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox attended the Buck Off Melanoma event held in Bowen over the weekend. Photo supplied  

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Engines roared and spirits soared as Bowen came alive for its annual Buck Off Melanoma fundraiser last Sunday. This year’s highlight, the Convoy 4 Melanoma, united the community in a powerful display of support, with trucks and vehicles of all sizes parading through town, horns blaring and crowds cheering.  

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox joined the celebration, praising its uplifting energy. Organisers worked tirelessly to expand the event’s reach, making it more inclusive and impactful than ever. With live music, family activities, and unwavering community backing, the day drove home one vital message: together, we can fight melanoma.

Read the rest of the story here: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/article/buck-off-melanoma

Photo source: Facebook

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Queensland’s luxury property market continues to reach new heights, with Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty at the centre of the region’s latest milestone sale.

The agency has set a new benchmark in the Whitsundays, surpassing its own 2024 record with the recent sale of Element Hill on Hamilton Island. This achievement follows the high-profile transaction of Villa De La Mer in Airlie Beach, which sold for close to $15 million.

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Known for handling some of the region’s most prestigious properties, Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty has played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of the Whitsundays as a destination for luxury real estate. Their strategic marketing campaigns, extensive buyer networks and persistence throughout lengthy sales campaigns have proven critical in securing premium outcomes.

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The earlier sale of Villa De La Mer exemplified this approach, attracting strong national interest and multiple offers over an extended period. By maintaining confidence in the property’s value and targeting the right buyers, the agency was able to achieve a record-breaking result that exceeded previous regional benchmarks.

This latest sale further cements Sotheby’s reputation as a leader in the prestige property sector, not just within Queensland but across Australia. As demand for high-end coastal homes continues to grow, their influence is helping to reshape expectations and pricing across the Whitsundays.

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For the local community, these results signal increasing confidence in the region’s property market and reinforce its standing on the national stage.

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Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty has set a new Whitsundays property record with the sale of Element Hill on Hamilton Island, surpassing its own 2024 benchmark.

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