Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Friday 9th October Cuppa Between Chapters 9am - 10am Enjoy a relaxed morning at Dudley Denny City Library, with a warm cuppa, good company and a chance to unwind with a few chapters of your current read. Whether you're after a friendly chat, a quiet moment with a book or simply a change of scenery, this welcoming gathering is a chance to slow down and enjoy some community connection. Bring along your current read or simply come along for a cuppa and a chat. Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay Free Community Suicide Intervention Training 9am - 4pm This free training will equip participants with practical skills to recognise early warning signs of suicide, support people at risk to access available services and encourage help-seeking before a crisis occurs. The session will also provide an opportunity to build confidence in having supportive conversations, while helping participants identify their own self-care strategies. It is a practical opportunity for community members to build their knowledge and feel better prepared to support others. Northern Queensland Primary Health Network, 2/45 Victoria Street, Mackay Sunday 11th October Walk, Talk And Connect At Bucasia 8am Head to Bucasia Esplanade for a relaxed morning of walking, conversation and community connection as part of Queensland Mental Health Week 2026. The Walk & Talk will get underway at 8.15am, with no set distance or pace, making it suitable for all ages and walking abilities. Participants can enjoy the outdoors, meet fellow locals and take part in mindfulness prompts along the way, before heading to Beachfront Bar & Restaurant from 9.15am for light refreshments. Coffee will be available to purchase. Prams are welcome, as are dogs on leads, with one dog per person. Registration is appreciated for catering purposes. Bucasia Esplanade, Bucasia Highway Country Music Family Night 7pm Enjoy a fun family night of country music, friendship and good old-fashioned community spirit at the Highway Country Music Family Night. Everyone is welcome to come along, enjoy the music, catch up with friends and make some new ones in a relaxed community setting. Admission is just $5, with a delicious supper provided free on the night, making it a great opportunity to settle in and enjoy an evening of music and friendship. Bakers Creek Community Hall, Bakers Creek, via Mackay Monday 12th October Introduction To The Australian Job Market 9am - 11am The Neighbourhood Hub presents a practical workshop supporting people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds to navigate the Australian employment landscape. Participants will learn about the local job market, connect with others and gain useful knowledge to help strengthen their employment prospects. Whether newly arrived in Australia or looking to build on existing employment opportunities, the session offers practical information and foundational knowledge to help participants better understand the local job market. The Neighbourhood Hub, 4 George Street, Mackay Tuesday 13th October Off The Hook: Knit And Crochet Club 9.30am - 11am Enjoy a relaxed morning of knitting, crochet, cuppas and friendly conversation at this welcoming monthly club. Materials are provided, or bring along your own project and enjoy getting creative while meeting new people. It is a chance to work on a project, pick up your needles or crochet hook and spend some time in good company. Whether you're an experienced crafter or simply looking for a relaxed morning activity, everyone is welcome. Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay
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The countdown is officially on, with less than two months to go until Mackay welcomes one of the most magical exhibitions ever to hit regional Australia. On December 4th 2026, Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic will make its Australian premiere at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, bringing more than a century of Disney imagination, storytelling and cinematic history to the region. For five magical months, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre will showcase more than a century of imagination, storytelling and cinematic history, inviting visitors to step behind the curtain of one of the world's most beloved entertainment companies. Featuring more than 120 extraordinary artefacts, costumes, props and works of art from the Walt Disney Archives, the exhibition will take visitors on an immersive journey through the stories that have captured hearts across generations. From Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs to Encanto, visitors will encounter the worlds and characters they know and love, while also exploring the remarkable legacies of Pixar, Star Wars and MARVEL. Across eight imaginatively themed galleries and 12 interactive installations, Disney fans will have the opportunity to experience more than 100 years of history in a way never before seen in Australia. The exhibition has travelled the globe, captivating audiences in cities including London, Paris, Munich, Chicago, Seoul and Madrid. Now, remarkably, its next destination is Mackay. At the official launch event earlier this year, Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said he hoped the announcement would encourage people from across the globe to discover exactly what makes the region so special. “Come and see it for yourself and you will understand why it’s here!” With at least 100,000 visitors expected across the five-month season, the exhibition is set to deliver an enormous boost to local tourism, hospitality and businesses, while introducing the Mackay region to audiences from across Australia and potentially around the world. For Disney fans, it is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to explore the magic behind the stories that shaped childhoods and continue to inspire new generations. It will all begin with a mouse, a dream and one very magical destination! For more information, or to book tickets, visit disney100exhibit.com/mackay WHAT: Disney: The Exhibition – A Century of Magic WHEN: From 4th December 2026 WHERE: The Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre
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There is something quietly captivating about watching smoke slowly curl into the air, forming shapes that disappear almost as quickly as they arrive. This fitting image for the theme ‘Aromas in Focus’ from this week’s winning photographer Alissa Tominlinson, embodies those delicate whispers rising from an ornate incense burner. Surrounded by pink roses and tiny white flowers, the scene is so vivid you can smell the fragrance off the canvas. The rich colour of the petals and intricate metalwork give the eye plenty to be mesmerized with, while the drifting smoke adds a little mystery to the scene. Congratulations to this Alissa for capturing such a beautiful moment of stillness! The next theme is Glitter and Sparkles, so seek out something shiny. Thank you once again to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing another wonderful collection of images.
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New Record For Mill ? Proserpine Sugar Mill Acting General Manager, Kevin Howell predicted a record through put of 1,150,000 tonnes by the end of season, which was due to new cane varieties 1. Also heavy rainfall brought a premature end to last season leaving a standover of 90,000 tonnes. One Crash Leads To Another. A council gravel truck crashed in Kara Crescent, Airlie Beach. A crane attempting to right the truck went out of control and collided with a fire truck, a stationery MEB truck and then a boat. No-one was injured. Shute Drowning. An English tourist dived off the jetty doing a forward somersault came up then disappeared and was eventually found on the bottom about 15 minutes later. Collinsville Road Link. Plans to close the power station could put the Collinsville- Proserpine Road in doubt. Job Stats For Cannonvale. June Quarter job figures from Cannonvale CES showed that 749 people enrolled of whom 455 obtained jobs. Keep Your Cool. Anticipating hot weather in the coming months [Tuesday’s temperature was 33 degrees] local firm Smith’s Electrical took delivery of 1.5 tonnes of airconditioners valued at $30000 following another consignment 3 weeks ago worth $12000. Terraced Garden Creation. Members of Whitsunday Garden Club, Bob and Shirley Hudson have created a delightful terraced garden out of rugged terrain which contained a variety of multi coloured blooms. Daydream Development. A major development application has been made which would promote Daydream Island to the forefront of local tourism. It includes restaurants, cocktail bar, and executive suites, take 5 years to complete and cost up to $25million. South Molle Invades Bowen; on Sunday 80 Islanders steamed up the coast aboard their high speed catamaran ‘Capricornia ‘and landed on Horseshoe Bay Beach to engage locals in outrigger, paddle ski, men’s and women’s tug’o’war,and tyre tube races among numerous other contests. Tangles Visit. Special guest speaker at the WTA Dinner to be held at the Reef Gateway Hotel will be former test cricketer Max [Tangles] Walker.
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BY GEORGIA MCDONALD
This week I sat down with Ash Smith, a familiar face around the Whitsundays music scene. Originally from Lisburn in Northern Ireland, Ash had been travelling round Australia when he decided to come up to Airlie Beach. In typical Whitsundays fashion, what was supposed to be a one week visit turned into eight years.
“I came here for a week, played one gig at Magnums, stayed and got sponsorship,” he told me.
While Ash may not have planned on pursuing music as a career, music was always a part of his life. Growing up, he was in choirs, performing solos at school. He stepped away from music for a few years, before picking it back up again around the age of 18, initially just for fun.
After recording a few songs and receiving good feedback, Ash realised he might be able to make a career out it and decided to take a leap. His gigging career took him to New Zealand and the United States.
In the US, he travelled with two other singer-songwriters in an RV, making their way through Atlanta, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida, playing gigs and backing each other on their original songs. They didn’t generate much money from the trip, but as Ash put it: you might not make a lot of cash, but you make a lot of experiences.
One of the highlights was playing on Beale Street in Memphis, which had been a big bucket-list moment for Ash. To make the whole thing even more fitting, one of the guys performed Walking In Memphis after the trio arrived ‘in the pouring rain’.You really couldn’t have planned it better if you tried.
Now, after around eight years in the Whitsundays, Ash has settled into the local music scene and has developed a broad style that allows him to adapt to any crowd; whether it be a chilled restaurant or a jam-packed late-night gig.
A big part of Ash’s performances these days is his use of a loop pedal, which lets him build up his sound as he plays. He will layer drums, percussion, bass, backing vocals and guitar live, creating what essentially sounds like a whole band but from one person.
What he loves most is being able to change things up every time, keeping things interesting for himself as well as adapting to wherever he’s playing.
For Ash, though, it’s not just about what he can create on stage, but the crowd he’s creating it for. He says an engaging and appreciative crowd makes all the difference, with the connection between musician and audience often encouraging him to give even more.
Despite years of performing, Ash is still learning, currently teaching himself saxophone alongside the guitar, vocals, drums and flute he already plays. His advice for anyone starting out is simple: play as much as you can, practise, and take every opportunity to perform.
“Any chance you have to play with any other musician, especially ones that are better than you, you’re always learning.”
Song Recommendation Of The Week: I Can’t Make You Love Me – Bon Iver Cover
Where to catch Ash this coming week:
Grandview Hotel, Bowen Sunday 6th September 2PM – 5PM
Every Sunday night at Boaty’s 6:30PM – 9PM
Every Monday night at Boaty’s 5:30PM – 9PM
Jules, David and Kieran. Photo credit: Zach Houtenville.
The Airlie Beach Festival of Music committee held a free barbecue on Sunday, bringing the community together ahead of November’s musical extravaganza.
Held at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, the relaxed gathering welcomed families and friends for an afternoon by the water, with sausages on the barbecue and live entertainment from acts including Jackie and Dom, a duo whose vocals and guitar proved a perfect match.
The event also gave organisers an opportunity to thank the volunteers, sponsors, supporters and music lovers who continue to get behind the festival each year.
With preparations well underway, the afternoon offered a small taste of the chill atmosphere audiences can expect when the festival returns in November.
With warmer days on the way and summer starting to feel a little closer, it is time to swap the hearty winter favourites for something fresh, colourful and full of tropical flavour.
This mango and prawn salad is practically made for a Whitsunday afternoon. Sweet mango, creamy avocado and fresh prawns come together with a zesty lime dressing for an easy lunch or light dinner best enjoyed outside in the sunshine.
Tropical Mango And Prawn Salad
Ingredients
500g cooked and peeled prawns
2 ripe mangoes, diced
1 large avocado, diced
1 Lebanese cucumber, sliced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
2 cups mixed lettuce leaves
½ cup fresh coriander leaves
1 fresh chilli, finely sliced (optional)
1 lime
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper
Method
Start by placing the lettuce, cucumber, red onion, mango and avocado into a large serving bowl.
Add the cooked prawns and gently toss everything together, being careful not to break up the avocado.
For the dressing, squeeze the juice of one lime into a small bowl before whisking through the olive oil and honey. Season with a little salt and pepper.
Drizzle the dressing over the salad just before serving and finish with fresh coriander and sliced chilli for an extra kick.
Serve immediately with fresh crusty bread, or enjoy it on its own for a light tropical meal.
Fresh, simple and bursting with colour, it is the kind of dish that tastes like summer before summer has even arrived.
Whitsunday Coast Airport offers a range of accessibility services to help all passengers travel with confidence. From kerbside assistance, hearing loops and accessible parking to priority seating, dedicated baggage claim areas, the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program and even a therapy dog, Whitsunday Coast Airport is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive experience for all travellers. For more information on the airport's accessibility features, visit the Whitsunday Coast Airport website.
What happens when you bring local businesses together for an afternoon of friendly competition? A lot of enthusiasm, some questionable tactics and plenty of excellent sportsmanship!
The inaugural Chamber Games brought teams together for a series of fun, light-hearted challenges, with plenty of cheering, competition and laughs along the way. While everyone came ready to win, the afternoon was ultimately about connection, teamworkand having a bit of fun together.
And, of course, there were some winners!
Blocklaying Airlie Beach made history as the inaugural Chamber Games champions, claiming the gold medal and becoming the first team to lift the perpetual trophy.
Club Whitsunday secured silver after a strong performance on home turf, while Whitsunday Regional Council rounded out the podium with bronze following a competitive afternoon.
Best Dressed Team went to Accountancy Plus Whitsunday, taking team spirit to the next level with their twirling tutus.
A special thank you went to Airlie Beach Men's Shed and Whitsunday Laser Creations for bringing the Chamber Games Perpetual Trophy to life.
The trophy will now be passed from champion to champion each year, with Blocklaying Airlie Beach making history as the first team to have their name engraved.
SAVE THE DATE: Thursday 26 August 2027.
Chamber can't wait to see these teams – and plenty of new challengers – back on the field for the 2027 Chamber Games!
Photo source: Mackay Regional Council and Mackay and Whitsunday Life
Mackay Seniors Expo is set to return to The Big Shed at Mackay Showgrounds on Tuesday 15th September.
Running from 9am to 12pm, the popular annual event is expected to once again draw thousands of locals, with more than 80 exhibitors coming together to showcase the services, programs and opportunities available to older residents across the region.
Now just three weeks away, the expo offers a valuable morning out for seniors, carers, friends and family, providing the chance to discover local services, gather useful information and connect with organisations focused on supporting healthy, activeand connected lives.
With approximately 2,000 community members attending in previous years, the event has become an important fixture on Mackay’s community calendar.
From discovering new programs and support services to simply getting out, meeting people and enjoying the atmosphere, the Expo is designed to help older residents stay informed and connected.
The event forms part of the Queensland Government’s statewide Seniors Month celebrations, which promote positive attitudes towards ageing while encouraging participation, community connection and intergenerational relationships.
What: Mackay Seniors Expo:
When: Tuesday 15th September - 9am–12pm
Where: The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds
A fresh new fundraising experience is coming to the Mackay region in 2026, as My Hospital Foundation launches its inaugural Gather & Graze event. Proudly presented by Jayden Enterprises, the exclusive cocktail-style evening will take place on Saturday 19 September 2026 at Note Park Grazing Co. in Homebush, bringing together great food, entertainment and passionate community supporters, all while raising vital funds for local healthcare initiatives.
Set amongst stunning rural surrounds, Gather & Graze offers guests an exclusive experience that celebrates the very best of regional hospitality. The event will feature a premium canapé-style dining experience curated by the talented team from Sinful Kitchen, renowned for delivering fresh, creative and beautifully presented cuisine. Guests can look forward to an evening of gourmet flavours, quality local produce and impeccable service, complemented by beer, wine and basic spirits.
Beyond the food, Gather & Graze promises an unforgettable night of entertainment and fundraising. Live music will set the tone for the evening, while guests can participate in live and silent auctions, raffles, lucky envelopes and a range of exciting prize draws.
Among the standout prizes already generating excitement are a Harry Styles concert package for two, a luxurious 7-Day Oasis Health Retreat in Bali, exclusive professional photography packages, and a signed 2025 Queensland State of Origin jersey. With many more premium experiences and prizes on offer, there will be plenty of opportunities for guests to take home something special while supporting a worthy cause.
Adding to the excitement, My Hospital Foundation is thrilled to welcome Tyler Littlewood as the live auctioneer for Gather & Graze 2026. A respected stock and station agent, helicopter pilot and passionate advocate for rural Queensland, Tyler is well known for his leadership, community involvement and strong connection to the agricultural industry. His infectious energy, extensive auction experience and engaging style are guaranteed to keep the crowd entertained and the bidding competitive throughout the evening.
While Gather & Graze is expected to a fantastic social experience, its purpose extends far beyond an enjoyable night out. Funds raised help My Hospital Foundation provide vital hospital equipment, patient support programs and healthcare initiatives that directly benefit patients and families across Mackay, Isaac, Whitsunday and surrounding communities. Every ticket purchased, auction bid placed and raffle entered contributes to improving healthcare outcomes for local people when they need it most.
Whether you're entertaining clients, celebrating with friends or simply wanting to give back to your community, Gather & Graze 2026 offers a unique opportunity to enjoy an exceptional evening while making a meaningful difference. With demand expected to be high, early bookings are encouraged for what promises to be one of the region's premier fundraising events of the year.
Some dads want socks. Others want steak.
This Father’s Day, give Dad the latter!
Hotel Mackay is inviting locals to gather around the table on Sunday 6th September, for a Father’s Day feast built around good food, good company and a seriously good cut of meat.
The perfect Father’s Day dish starts with the perfect cut, and the team has gone straight to the source, selecting a 400g Rib Fillet on the Bone from Five Founders before handing it over to the Hotel Mackay kitchen to do the rest.
It’s the kind of meal Dad can get properly excited about, and a good excuse to get the whole crew together.
Whether you’re bringing your dad, your grandad, your mates, or simply using Father’s Day as an opportunity to get everyone around the table, Hotel Mackay is the place to make a meal of it.
Located in Mackay’s City Heart, the locally owned and lovingly restored hotel combines more than a century of character with a fresh, welcoming atmosphere. Its traditional pub setting makes it an easy choice for a relaxed Father’s Day catch-up, whether you’re settling in for lunch or making a day of it over good food and a cold drink – or two!
Hotel Mackay’s restaurant and bar are open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, offering a place where locals and visitors can enjoy hearty pub fare in a venue steeped in Mackay history.
With a standout rib fillet on the menu and the city-centre pub atmosphere to match, this is one booking Dad will actually thank you for.
This Father’s Day, bring Dad, bring your appetite, book your table and enjoy some quality time together at Hotel Mackay!
Bookings available on 07 4863 0564
Monthly Markets
Marian Markets
Held the 3rd Sunday of each month, 8am–12pm, at Holy Rosary Church. Enjoy local stalls, food and a welcoming community atmosphere.
Pinnacle Markets
Held the 3rd Sunday monthly, 9am–1pm, at Pinnacle Family Hotel, featuring local stalls and businesses. Stallholders:4958 5207. Markets run through September.
Eungella Community Markets
Held the 2nd Sunday monthly, 9am–1pm, at Eungella Memorial Hall, 5 North St. Enjoy local stalls and a family-friendly, undercover, air-conditioned venue.
Upcoming Events
Friday 28th August
Cuppa Between Chapters
9am-10am
Enjoy a relaxed morning of good company, conversation and reading at Cuppa Between Chapters. Settle in with a warm drink, meet others from the community or simply enjoy some quiet time with your current read. Come along for a friendly start to the day — everyone is welcome.
Mirani Library, 16 Victoria St, Mirani.
Saturday 29th August
Homebush Trivia & Bingo Night
5pm–11pm
Round up your friends, family or workmates for a fun-filled 18+ night of trivia, bingo, raffles and great prizes at Homebush State School. Tickets are $30 per person and include six rounds of trivia and bingo games, with a complimentary cold platter for each table. All funds raised will support students and school resources.
Homebush State School, 1181 Homebush Road, Homebush.
Wednesday 2nd September
Paint with Kate Kennedy
11am–12pm
Unleash your creativity at Walkerston Library with local artist Kate Kennedy, who will guide participants through a vibrant acrylic painting workshop inspired by local scenes. Learn new techniques, experiment with colour and create your own bold artwork in a relaxed, social setting. Bookings are limited, so get in quick!
Walkerston Library, 8 Creek St, Walkerston.
Friday 4th September
Stand Up Comedy In Farleigh – James O’Connell
7.30pm–8.45pm
Brisbane comedian James O’Connell brings 16 years of stand-up experience to Farleigh for a night of laughs, sharing stories from his time on Farmer Wants a Wife, sperm donation adventures and plenty more. The 18+ show runs for around an hour — perfect for a Friday night laugh.
22 Chidlow St, Farleigh.
Comedian Daniel Connell will bring his award-winning observational comedy show Prairie Dog to Mackay’s Metropolitan Hotel on September 3rd, promising plenty of laughs and relatable takes on everyday life. Photo supplied
If you’ve ever wondered who has the time to wash their bedsheets every fortnight, comedian Daniel Connell has some thoughts – and he’s bringing them, along with plenty of other everyday observations, to Mackay.
Daniel was the recipient of the 2025 Piece of Wood Award at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, and will bring his latest show to Mackay’s Metropolitan Hotel on Thursday 3rd September.
His brand of comedy is built around the little things that get under our skin, from questionable advice and family life to the strange quirks of everyday living.
“I talk a lot about people going on TV and saying they’re an expert on something when they don’t actually know what the hell they’re talking about,” he said.
One such ‘expert’ recommended washing bedsheets every fortnight.
“I just thought this guy’s an idiot. Nobody’s got time to do that.”
Daniel’s observational humour and ability to find comedy in the mundane have made the show a hit, with around 70 performances under his belt this year.
“I think it’s stuff that everyone of all ages can relate to and get a laugh out of.”
You almost wouldn’t believe this renowned larrikin started out nervous. But before Daniel Connell was winning comedy awards and touring the country, he was a young comedian who was anything but comfortable in front of a crowd.
“I was always quite nervous when it came to public speaking, but I had a try at an open mic competition in Canberra in 2009,” he said.
“I was kind of hooked after that. It was really fun.”
His love of making people laugh actually stretches back to childhood, when he would retell jokes and funny stories to family and school friends.
“I just loved that feeling of the reaction of people laughing. I think that really planted the seed early of what I wanted to do.”
After moving to Melbourne in 2010, Daniel pursued comedy seriously, eventually becoming one of Australia’s respected stand-up comedians.
He has previously visited Mackay as part of the Sydney Comedy Festival Roadshow in 2016 or 2017, but this will be his first full-length show in the city.
Daniel said one of his favourite parts of touring regional Australia was getting to know each town before stepping on stage. He might chat to locals, visit a few shops or pick up the local newspaper, with those observations sometimes making their way into his show.
Having grown up in a small country town in New South Wales, Daniel said he particularly enjoyed regional audiences.
“Queensland crowds are pretty awesome… they’re always up for a good laugh,” he said.
A rugby league fan, he is also looking forward to performing in what he considers rugby league heartland.
Mackay audiences can expect relatable observations, plenty of laughs and perhaps a fresh perspective on how often they really need to clean the oven!
Catch Daniel Connell at the Metropolitan Hotel on Thursday 3rd September!
Tickets available via: danielconnell.com.au
Mackay’s littlest residents are set to receive a big welcome when G’day Little Queenslanders returns to Queens Park on Saturday 5th September.
Running from 9am to 12pm, this free, family-friendly event will bring together babies, toddlers and their families for a morning of entertainment, activities, connection and community celebration.
Designed for families with children aged 0–2 years, the outdoor event offers plenty to keep little ones smiling, including live children’s entertainment featuring the Bluey Live Interactive Experience, along with a range of family-friendly activities and spaces to relax and connect.
Parents, carers and grandparents will also have the opportunity to explore information stalls showcasing local health and family services, helping families discover valuable resources and support available throughout the region. Food and beverage trucks will also be on hand, making it easy to settle in and enjoy a morning at the park.
Adding a special touch to the celebrations, families can register to receive a personalised certificate officially welcoming their Little Queenslander to the community. Early birds are also in for a treat, with the first 200 little Queenslanders to arrive receiving a free kids bucket hat.
Whether you’re navigating life with a newborn, chasing after an energetic toddler or supporting a growing family as a grandparent or carer, G’day Little Queenslanders offers a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the early years while connecting with the wider Mackay community.
Head along to Queens Park, Goldsmith Street, East Mackay, and join in the fun.
For more information and to register for a personalised certificate, visit the Queensland Government’s Little Queenslanders website.
G’day Little Queenslanders is proudly presented by the Queensland Government.
Mackay will come alive with music this weekend as 135 talented young musicians from more than 20 schools converge at Mackay North State High School for the State Honours Ensemble Program.
Running from Friday to Sunday, the intensive program will give regional students the opportunity to work with highly regarded specialist conductors and musicians without having to travel away from the region for the same level of specialist tuition.
Delivered by the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University, the weekend will see students rehearse across three ensembles; band, strings and vocal, under visiting specialists Sharelle Guest, Mark Sullivan and Dr Anthony Young.
A Grand Finale Concert will be held on Sunday 30th August in Mackay North State High School’s Assembly Hall. The event is free for the public to attend, with a gold coin donation appreciated.
The State Honours Ensemble Program has been running since 2001 and has involved more than 45,000 students from more than 2,000 schools.
Photo sourced: Shutterstock
Now is a great time for Whitsunday gardeners to get busy, with the weather moving towards the warmer, wetter growing season, offering plenty of opportunities to get new crops established.
For those keen to grow their own vegetables, now is a good time to start planting wet season favourites.
Tomatoes, cucumber, capsicum, chilli, eggplant, beans, pumpkin, zucchini and sweet corn are all options for tropical gardens as conditions warm up. Radishes and other quick-growing crops can also be added to the patch, giving gardeners something to harvest while longer-growing plants get established.
Herbs are another easy addition, particularly for gardeners working with smaller spaces. Basil, coriander, chives and parsley can be grown in garden beds or containers, while pots are also handy for tomatoes and chillies.
If you're looking to add colour, August is also a good time to introduce plants suited to Queensland's warm conditions. Marigolds and nasturtiums can provide colour while also making useful additions to productive gardens.
Before planting, take a little time to prepare the garden. Remove weeds, refresh tired potting mix and add compost or other organic matter to garden beds. Mulch can also help protect the soil and retain moisture as temperatures begin to climb.
It is also worth checking irrigation and watering systems before the weather gets hotter. Newly planted crops will need consistent moisture while they establish, particularly as growth begins to accelerate.
A little preparation now can set the garden up for plenty of fresh produce and colour in the months ahead.
Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes
Live music, creative workshops and lakeside fun turned Lake Proserpine into one big backyard for three days, as the Flametree Gathering returned for its fourth year.
Between Friday night’s opening performances and Sunday’s sunset finale, the gathering kept its easy-going spirit in swing, drawing the crowd into the experience.
“It was an amazing success,” said event organiser Bronwyn Garland.
“We would have had over 400 people here including artists and volunteers, and the music was just absolutely sensational.”
Collaboration remained at the heart of the weekend, with performers regularly stepping into one another’s sets and turning individual appearances into something shared.
Artists including David Flower, Matty Rogers, Paul Greene, Lecia Louise, Chris Matthews, Jesse Morris and Sky Eater joined forces across the festival, bringing different shades of folk, blues, rock, roots and reggae together on stage.
For organisers, these unplanned musical crossovers are what give the gathering its distinctive character.
“It’s this explosion on the stage where everyone gets up and they want to play along, it’s pretty awesome,” Bronwyn said.
Away from the stage, the gathering showcased its versatility with the Aussie Olympics, featuring thong throwing and esky races bringing plenty of friendly competition.
The four-legged gatherers also had their moment in the returning dog parade, while parasol painting, lantern-making, yoga and family activities ensured there was something happening across the festival grounds.
“We found different ways for people to interact and feel like they're part of it, which was pretty good,” Bronwyn said.
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