Big Laughs Head to the Whitsundays as Comedy Festival Roadshow Rolls Into Town

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is set to bring a night of laughter to the Whitsundays when it hits the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Wednesday, the 22nd of April.

Showcasing a carefully curated line-up of comedy heavyweights and rising stars from Australia and around the world, the Roadshow delivers a fast-paced, laugh-out-loud experience packed into one side-splitting show. Audiences can expect a mix of sharp wit, bold storytelling and crowd-favourite performances that capture the spirit of the renowned Melbourne International Comedy Festival.

For almost 30 years, the Festival has toured nationally, bringing its signature humour to communities far and wide, and now local audiences will have the chance to experience the country’s largest comedy festival right in their own backyard.

The performance runs from 7.30pm to 9.30pm and is recommended for audiences aged 15 years and over. Attendees are advised the show may contain coarse language, adult themes and sexual references, with smoke or haze effects also used during the performance.

Accessible seating and Companion Card bookings can be arranged by contacting the Box Office on (07) 4945 0405.

Comedy fans are encouraged to gather their friends and secure tickets early for what promises to be a standout night of entertainment in Proserpine.

What: Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow
When: Wednesday, the 22nd of April
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

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Friday 16 January

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm-10pm)

KCs: Michael Hayes (from 8pm)

Grandview Hotel: Simon Briley (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Kaeden McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)

Saturday 17 January

Airlie Beach Hotel: Lisa Hunt (2pm-5:30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm-10pm)

KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ (1pm - 5pm)

Sunday 18 January

Airlie Beach Hotel: Lisa Hunt (2pm-5:30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6:30pm - 9:30pm)

KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)

Grandview Hotel: Ronny Crocker (4pm-8pm)

Sorrento: Simon Briley (4pm-7pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: Pluto Tango (1pm - 5pm)

Monday 19 January

KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Tuesday 20 January

KCs: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Wednesday 21 January

KCs: Chris Boorof (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Thursday 22 January

Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6:30pm - 9:30pm)

KCs: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)

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January
17 & 18 Lisa Hunt - Forever Soul, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

22 Six the Musical Live, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 2pm - 3:45pm

24 North Queensland Cowboys V Mackay Cutters, Whitsunday Sports Park, 6:30am - 8:30am

24 & 25 Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Swanee and Alan Barnes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

24 The Corsairs Name Day featuring YUSSI, Boatys Airlie Beach, from 9pm

26 Aussie Day at the Club, Club Whitsunday, 11am - 2pm

26 Australia Day at the Grand View, Grand View Hotel, 11am - 8pm

26 Australia Day Fun Family Day, Queens Beach Hotel, from 12pm

26 Australia Day at the Met, Hotel Metropole Proserpine, from 12pm

26 Australia Day and Citizenship Ceremony at Bowen PCYC

26 The Wizards of OZ Australia Day, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm - 6pm

31 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

February
1 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

7 Galentine's Day, Queens Beach Hotel, 12pm - 4pm

7 Bustamento Intrepid Adventure Tour, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

8 One Love - The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am

14 & 15 Whole Lotta Rosie, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

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A celebration of Australian rock royalty is set to take over Airlie Beach, with two huge afternoons of live music featuring some of the country’s most loved anthems and familiar names.

Gold Chisel plus Power & The Passion – The Australian Midnight Oil Tribute Show will headline a massive weekend of entertainment, joined by special guests John Swan, better known as Swanee, and Alan Barnes.

Leading the charge is Gold Chisel, who will deliver a high-energy tribute to Cold Chisel with a setlist packed full of classics including Khe Sanh, When the War Is Over, Cheap Wine, Flame Trees, You Got Nothing I Want and Choir Girl, along with plenty more fan favourites. Gold Chisel are highly acclaimed and both Alan Barnes and Swanee, brothers of Cold Chisel frontman Jimmy Barnes have nothing but praise for the tribute band. Alan even knows Gold Chisel lead singer Andy well.

Sharing the stage will be Power & The Passion – The Australian Midnight Oil Tribute Show, bringing the unmistakable sound and political punch of Midnight Oil to life. Audiences can expect to hear iconic tracks such as Power and the Passion, US Forces, Dreamworld, King of the Mountain, Forgotten Years, Beds Are Burning and Blue Sky Mine.

Adding a unique family connection to the weekend, Swanee and Alan Barnes will also take to the stage to perform a mix of original material and classic hits. They will also join Gold Chisel during their set, teaming up on stage for a few crowd-pleasing songs.

Swanee will also be performing some hits from his newest album 'Believe'. On this album is the track titled 'Brother of Mine', a moving song featuring Swanee, Alan Barnes, and Jimmy Barnes. The brother-trio pour their heart and emotion into the song. It may be played at the event, you will have to be there to find out.

With two free shows scheduled, the event promises a relaxed, high-impact celebration of Australian rock across two afternoons.

The performances will take place on Saturday, the 24th of January, and Sunday, the 25th of January, from 2pm to 5.30pm, offering music lovers the chance to soak up some of the best Australian rock ever written in a live setting.

That's not all! On Australia Day the bands plus Swanee and Alan Barnes hit the stage again in a full day celebration, from midday to six.

WHAT: Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Special Guests Swanee and Alan Barnes
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, the 24th of April & Sunday the 25th of April (2pm - 5.30pm) Plus Special Event Australia Day – Monday January 26 12pm – 6pm

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Friday 9th January

Crochet and Conversation
9am
Locals are invited to drop in for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation with a friendly group of Northern Beaches residents at Beachfront Bar and Restaurant on the Bucasia Esplanade. Everyone is welcome, from experienced crafters to complete beginners, or those simply keen to enjoy a coffee and a chat. Bring your own crochet tools or borrow from the communal box, then settle in, spot the yarn and join the table.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia Esplanade

Saturday 10th January

Weekly Falun Gong (Chi Gong) Exercise and Meditation
9am
Falun Dafa (Falun Gong) exercise sessions offer a gentle, accessible way to support a healthy body and peaceful mind. The practice features five easy-to-learn exercises and is suitable for people of all ages. Sessions are always free of charge and no bookings are required. Published teachings are available to guide practitioners, with books translated into 45 languages. Those with questions are welcome to send a message via Facebook.

Monday 12th January

Seniors Mat Yoga
9am
Seniors Matwork and Standing Yoga welcomes those aged 55+ to improve flexibility, balance, strength and relaxation. Led by experienced physiotherapy and yoga specialist Cait, classes run 9.30–10.30am (meet & greet at 9am Week 1) with tea, coffee and light refreshments afterwards—a perfect opportunity to connect with others. Cost is $10 per session. Those interested in attending are encouraged to join in, with registration online via Humanitix, by email at nbcweek@gmail.com, or by calling 0417 275 321
Northern Beaches Community Hall

Tuesday 13th January

Street Science Spectacular
1pm
The Street Science Spectacular hits Centre Court outside Myer from 13–22 January 2026, offering high-energy science shows and hands-on drop-in workshops for the whole family. Daily sessions are free and no bookings are required, making it easy for locals to join in the fun. Perfect for curious minds of all ages, this interactive event promises experiments, excitement, and learning in a lively, family-friendly environment—don’t miss the chance to explore science in action these school holidays!
Caneland Centre Centre Court, (outside Myer)

Thursday 15th January

Mackay Harbour Mums Circle
9am
join Harbour Circle mornings at Mackay Harbour, near Riley’s BBQ, 67 E Point Drive. Enjoy a relaxed beachside morning with your little ones, grab a coffee, and connect with other local mums while the children play. There’s no sign-in or schedule—just a welcoming, friendly space to chat, share experiences, and enjoy community connection. Perfect for anyone looking to meet other new mums and make the most of mornings by the water.
Near Riley’s BBQ, 67 E Point Dr, Mackay Harbour

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Mackay-Born Gabrielle Mccarthy Shines On Love Island Australia

Gabrielle McCarthy entered Season 7 of Love Island Australia as a Bombshell, and left the Villa as a nation-wide fan favourite, capturing the hearts of viewers with her bubbly personality and infectious energy.

After growing up in Mackay, 21-year-old Gabby moved to the sun-soaked shores of the Gold Coast to peruse her career as an influencer and content creator where she shares videos and photos of her life across multiple social media channels.

Gabby was flown out of the country to indulge in a European-Summer, Love Island Australia style, in August of 2025, after being cast in the show’s seventh consecutive season.

Season 7 of Love Island Australia was filmed in Mallorca, Spain and made its debut on the 27th of October 2025. Presented by Sophie Monk and comically narrated by Eoghan McDermott, the reality-cross-competition style television show involves several contestants who are searching for love over the course of the 29-episode season.

Contestants, also referred to as Islanders, must initially couple up with another Islander at the beginning of the season, however several re-couplings tend to take place as new contestants, known as Bombshells, enter the Villa. In the show’s grand finale, the winning couple, as determined by the votes of the public, typically take home $50,000 and of course, waves of exposure that often leads to brand deals and countless other opportunities.

Gabby entered the Villa as the season’s first Bombshell on day one and was the first Islander to quit the dating show solo, taking herself out of the $50,000 competition on episode 27 after spending 22 days in the Villa. It’s speculated that her split with her Love Island ex, Jotham Russell, heavily influenced her decision to leave after a surprise switch left Gabby single while Jotham re-coupled on day 15.

Throughout her time on the show, Gabby certainly left her mark, however, she was turning heads even before she entered the Love Island Villa and had over 141,000 followers on TikTok and approximately 86,000 on Instagram. Since her Spanish screentime, Gabby’s fanbase has skyrocketed to over 248,000 followers on Instagram, and 362,300 on TikTok.

Post-Villa, Gabby has continued to follow the flow of her rising fame, creating content with Love Island co-star, turned best friend, Yana Marks across her socials. Over her 27 episodes of airtime, Gabby racked up several iconic moments, including one on-screen altercation with a co-star that produced the now viral quote, “If you guys think I’m here for clout, I’ve already got the clout back home. Just so you know.”, which has been used in over 10,000 videos posted to TikTok.

Gabby has rapidly projected into the higher tiers of the Aussie Influencer space since leaving the Season 7 Love Island Australia Villa, and even though her screentime ended before the finale, her impact and influence has undeniably earnt her a place amongst this generation’s most iconic creators.

Lisa Hunt's Forever Soul

An immense talent is set to perform at the Airlie Beach Hotel. Internationally renowned American singer Lisa Hunt leads with an impressive resume, designed to leave any music fan amazed. Initally beginning as a gospel singer, Lisa Hunt has sold more than a million albums as both a singer and songwriter, having performed across the globe for many decades.

She has performed along the likes of Australian legends Jimmy Barnes, Diesel, Midnight Oil as well international superstars Eric Clapton, James Brown, Dionne Warwick, Brian May, Randy Crawford, Joe Cocker, Miles Davis and Andrea Bocelli.

With an extensive history of performing alongside some of the world's greatest artists, the Airlie Beach Hotel is absolutely thrilled to have her onboard to perform a series of FREE shows on January 17th and 18th from 2pm onwards.

Get on down to the Airlie Beach Hotel for some spellbinding sets of tightly crafted, well performed eclectic music by Australia's leading soul singer. There will be old school gospel, RnB Blues, Motown and much more.  Her powerful magnetic voice will provide the perfect ambience for a beautiful Whitsundays evening. Prepare for style, talent and lots of fun.

This is not a show you will want to miss.

WHAT: Forever Soul - Lisa Hunt, FREE Show
WHEN: Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th of January, 2pm Onwards
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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Photo sourced

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January
10 Pets Domain Bowen Monthly Market, Pets Domain Bowen, 8am - 1pm

10 & 11 Queen Rhapsody, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

14 Community Disaster Information Session, Murroona Gardens Wellness Centre, 10am - 11am

17 & 18 Lisa Hunt - Forever Soul, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

22 Six the Musical Live, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 2pm - 3:45pm

24 North Queensland Cowboys V Mackay Cutters, Whitsunday Sports Park, 6:30am - 8:30am

24 & 25 Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Swanee, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

24 The Corsairs Name Day featuring YUSSI, Boatys Airlie Beach, from 9pm

26 Aussie Day at the Club, Club Whitsunday, 11am - 2pm

26 Australia Day at the Grand View, Grand View Hotel, 11am - 8pm

26 Australia Day Fun Family Day, Queens Beach Hotel, from 12pm

26 Australia Day at the Met, Hotel Metropole Proserpine, from 12pm

26 The Wizards of OZ Australia Day, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm - 6pm

31 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

February
1 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

7 Galentine's Day, Queens Beach Hotel, 12pm - 4pm

7 Bustamento Intrepid Adventure Tour, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

8 One Love - The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am

14 & 15 Whole Lotta Rosie, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

19 The Amity Affliction National Tour, Magnums Hotel, from 7pm

28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

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Friday 9 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Nate Marks (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)

Saturday 10 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Queen Rhapsody (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dave Johan (4pm - 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: DJ (1pm - 5pm)

Sunday 11 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Queen Rhapsody (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Noah Davis (1pm - 5pm)
Grand View Hotel: Matthew Vaughan (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Monday 12 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 7.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Pianoman (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Tuesday 13 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Wednesday 14 January
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Thursday 15 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

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IMPULSE is set to light up Magnums with after-dark cabaret this New Year season.

Airlie Beach is in for a bold New Year treat as IMPULSE brings a high-energy cabaret experience to Magnums Hotel, transforming the popular venue into a fully seated theatre for a limited run of shows.

From the team that brought you NOSTALGIA, the eight-strong cast members have been rehearsing for the last six months to present this new and exciting cabaret show.

With an atmosphere inspired by late-night glamour and burlesque flair, IMPULSE promises a fast-paced evening of powerhouse performance, seductive choreography, and crowd-pleasing entertainment designed for an adult audience looking for something different after dark.

IMPULSE is going to be fast-paced, filled with back-to-back cabaret, burlesque and crowd moments, so the audience is constantly getting something new.

Hosted at Magnums IMPULSE offers a fully indoor, seated theatre-style event offering air-conditioned comfort, front-row VIP tables with grazing boxes, and a private bar open throughout the show, designed for relaxed viewing, easy drinks, and a premium guest experience.

The show runs for three nights only on December 30, January 1 and January 2, with doors opening ahead of the 7.30pm start time. With seating limited each night, organisers encourage locals and visitors to secure tickets online to avoid missing out.

IMPULSE will be staged at Magnums Hotel, Airlie Beach. Tickets are available now via the event’s online booking link.

https://www.universe.com/events/impulse-cabaret-show-tickets-1PTY0J

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Wednesday 24 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Friday 26 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Simon Briley (4pm - 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Saturday 27 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 7.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: DJ Sugarlips (1pm - 5pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Sunday 28 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 7.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Pianoman (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Simon Briley (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Monday 29 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

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December

24 Members Christmas Eve Drinks, Club Whitsunday, 2pm - 5pm

25 Christmas Day

26 Boxing Day

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

31 New Year’s Eve

February

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

March

22 The UK Rod Stewart Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

May

1 SPOT, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm - 12.50pm

13 Luke Kidgell - Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9pm

31 Creedence Clearwater Collective, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

June

26 Echoes of Pink Floyd - 60 Years of Pink Floyd, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 8pm - 10.45pm

July

25 - 26 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

August

7 Room on the Broom, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 1pm - 1.55pm

9 A Taste of Ireland, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 4pm - 6pm

September

11 - 12 White on Whitsunday Long Lunch, Whitehaven Beach, from 8am

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With the New Year fast approaching, Airlie Beach Hotel is gearing up to deliver a night you won’t forget. Prepare to dance, laugh, and celebrate your way into the new year with an unforgettable performance packed with music, lights, and dazzling showmanship. Brace yourself for a fully choreographed high-end theatrical show with costumes, displays and visual mania.

The New Year’s Eve celebration will be an exhilarating event split into four distinct parts, each dedicated to a different era or theme:

Part 1: The 70s (7:00 pm – 7:50 pm)
The night will kick off with an explosive set from Big City Beat, an 11-piece party ensemble known for their energetic performances and stunning costumes. Expect to be transported back to the 70s with classic hits brought to life through sizzling choreography and a captivating brass section.

Part 2: The 80s (8:20 pm – 9:10 pm)
Big City Beat will continue the journey through time with a vibrant 80s set, featuring all the unforgettable anthems from this iconic decade. Their dynamic show combines music, visuals, and choreography to keep you dancing all night.

Part 3: The 90s (9:40 pm – 10:30 pm)
Next, the band will take you through the 90s with another high-energy performance packed with party favourites. With a fully choreographed theatrical show enhanced by lights and visual effects, this set promises something for everyone.

Part 4: The Australian Bruno Mars Show (11pm - MIDNIGHT)
As the countdown to midnight begins, get ready for the electrifying Australian Bruno Mars Show. This act goes beyond just Bruno Mars’ biggest hits, paying tribute to the legendary artists who inspired him - including Michael Jackson, Prince, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, James Brown, and Justin Timberlake. Experience a spectacular fusion of funk, soul, pop, and R&B as you welcome the new year in style.

With so much talent, joy, and brilliance on display, Airlie Beach Hotel promises a New Year’s Eve celebration you simply can’t miss.

WHAT: New Year's Eve Show
WHEN: December 31st, 7pm - MIDNIGHT
WHERE: The Airlie Beach Hotel

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Wednesday 24th December

Walkerston Fire Station Lolly Run
3pm
Get ready for Christmas Eve fun as Santa and local firefighters hit the streets for the annual Walkerston Fire Station Lolly Run. From 3pm, families can line the streets to catch lollies and spread festive cheer. The route and donation details will be shared on social media, so keep an eye out for updates. A wonderful way for the community to celebrate the season together—don’t miss it!
Dutton Street, Walkerston, QLD

Saturday 27th December

Falun Dafa (Falun Gong) Exercises

Experience the calm and balance of Falun Dafa, a self-cultivation system promoting a healthy body and peaceful mind. Participants can learn five easy-to-follow exercises, guided by published teachings available in 45 languages. Suitable for all ages, this free session requires no bookings, simply arrive and join in. A perfect opportunity to recharge your body and mind during the holiday season.

Wednesday 31st December

2025 New Year’s Eve River Party
6pm
Say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026 at the NYE River Party on Wednesday, December 31, at Bluewater Quay from 6pm to 9pm. This free family-friendly event features live music, market stalls, food vendors, amusement rides, and special kids’ performances. The evening kicks off with a Welcome to Country and mayoral address, followed by entertainment for all ages, and concludes with the dazzling Muscle Garden fireworks at 9pm, with a second midnight display to ring in the New Year. Join the community for a festive celebration to start 2026 with fun, food, and fireworks!
Bluewater Quay

Thursday 1st January

Kirtan at North Wall Beach
5:30am
Start 2026 with connection and calm at North Wall Beach. This interactive meditation combines soothing instrumentals with sacred yoga chants, creating a peaceful atmosphere for all. Fresh chai will be served afterward, and you’re welcome to bring a vegan snack to share. No bookings are essential, though registering helps with preparation. Weather updates will be shared on Facebook. Everyone is warmly invited to begin the New Year with harmony and joy.
North Wall Beach

Wednesday 7th January

Mackay Mums Circle Mid-Week Reset
9.30am
Take a mid-week break with Mackay Mums Circle at John Breen Park. A relaxed, drop-in morning for mums, bring your kids, a picnic rug, and some snacks while little ones play. Chat, share a coffee, and enjoy the company of other parents—no agenda, no pressure. Optional plate to share. Stay as long as you like; leave when needed. A gentle way to recharge and connect with the local community.
John Breen Park, North Mackay

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Friday 19th December

Eat Street Mackay
4.30pm
Eat Street Mackay, in conjunction with Friday Flow, will transform Bluewater Quay into a vibrant hub of food, music and community. Locals are invited to enjoy a relaxed evening with live music and a diverse line-up of favourite food vans, including Tina’s Treats, Ziffy’s Ice-Cream, Da Sausage, Tambay Eats, Tasty Twister, Spicy n Saucy, Rubie Rush, Nonno’s Pizza and Papa Ben’s Coffee Van. The community is encouraged to come along and enjoy the atmosphere.
Blue Water Quay

Friday Flow
5pm
Friday Flow is a welcoming community gathering designed to reconnect people through creativity, movement and shared experiences. The event features a six-metre air track for children, colourful decorations, live music with interactive instruments, and a relaxed space for art and craft. With delicious food, chai and botanical drinks available, the organisers invite the community to come along, soak up the good vibes and enjoy this collective gift.
Bluewater Quay, Mackay

Christmas Light Ride
6.30pm
The community is invited to light up the night with a festive and social group bike ride, encouraging riders to decorate both bike and rider with tinsel, baubles, stars and lights, while wearing a helmet as part of the mandatory dress-up. The ride will roll at an average pace of 23km/h. Riders under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult, with one adult supervising up to four riders.
Corry Cycles

Saturday 20th December

Harbour Moon Christmas Market
4pm
The final Harbour Moon Market of the year is here! Community members are invited to enjoy a festive evening with live entertainment from Soul Vibes, fresh fruit and vegetables, plants, homemade treats, and a wide variety of market stalls. Keep an eye on the event for some exciting surprises and celebrate the season before the markets return in the new year.
The Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club

True Street Cars Christmas Meet
6pm
The final meet for 2025 will be held at the Woolworths Rural View Complex. Community members are invited to dress up, have fun, and support the last meet of the year. Attendees are encouraged to be mindful of other patrons and local businesses, which have welcomed the events warmly. Enjoy a festive and safe gathering, with positive vibes all around, and don’t forget to stop by The Cheesecake Shop.
Woolworths Rural View Complex

Sunday 21st December

Christmas Charity Fun Run
7am
Marian Multi-Sport is hosting a Christmas Fundraising Zooper Dooper Fun Run in support of Chances House Mackay. The event will be held on Sunday, 21st December, at 7am, starting from the Mackay Marina Breakwater Entrance. A $10 donation or QR code donation onsite is requested, with all proceeds supporting safe and nurturing homelessness services for the Mackay community. Zooper Doopers included!
Mackay Harbour Marina

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