Mayor Ry Collins cut a cake alongside Principal Jeremy Callaghan and co-organiser Sue Connors at Proserpine School (primary) Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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Last week both Proserpine State School and St Catherines Catholic College celebrated the 70^th year of Under Eights Week at their primary schools; an annual week of themed activity organised by Early Childhood Australia that promotes the importance of early learning and play, celebrating children as capable, creative and connected citizens.  

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Both schools celebrated the occasion with their own event, each featuring educational stalls from local organisations such as the Whitsunday Regional Council, State Government Office, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and Proserpine Museum Expo.  

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Primary school students were able to enjoy a host of activities such as face painting, bubble blowing, arts & crafts and music.  

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Photo source: Facebook

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This labrador cross is looking for her forever home in the Whitsundays and beyond.

Vitani is an approximately 1 year old Labrador cross, small to medium sized, and absolutely bursting with energy, love, and eagerness to learn. She is the kind of dog who will match your morning walk, your afternoon run, and still have love left over at the end of the day.

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She is friendly, playful, and great with kids and other dogs. She is still learning her manners, but that is half the fun. Vitani is eager to learn and will thrive with someone who can give her consistency, structure, and a little patience.

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She has so much love to give and she is ready to give it all to the right person.

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To adopt Vitani, DM us with your Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue your phone number and "Vitani".

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The adoption fee $400. Vitani is microchipped, desexed, vaccinated and vet checked.

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The Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry brought together business leaders from across the region to celebrate Queensland Small Business Month. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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The Whitsunday Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently held its regular business breakfast briefing at Club Whitsunday, bringing together business leaders from across the region to celebrate Queensland Small Business Month and look ahead to the future in light of the federal budget and ongoing regional expansion.

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A highlight of the morning was a guest speaker panel featuring standout winners from the 2025 Whitsunday Business Awards. Panellists included Kellee Fogg from Whitsunday Law, Elizabeth Hackett from Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach, and Sam Vanderpoel from Rolling With Netherpoel.

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The panel shared insights into their business journeys, the challenges and opportunities facing local enterprises, and the importance of innovation, resilience and community support in a growing regional economy. Speakers also reflected on the value of the Whitsunday Business Awards in recognising excellence and inspiring other local operators.

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See more photos here: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/chamber-of-commerce-breakfast-celebrates-small-business-month-and-looks-to-the-future

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1. Megan Taylor, Kellee Fogg, Fiona Erquiaga Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi  

2. Patrick Atkins – Airlie Beach Crew Clothing Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

3. Michael and Val Kimpton with Elizabeth Hackett Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

4. Executive Officer Dr Julia Evans and President Alan Milostic Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi  

5. Louise Sugrue, Leanne Abernathy, Annie Lloyd-Louis Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi

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Emily Stamatovich, Ashleen O’Neill and Claire Tobin

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Hosted by Local Eyes at Blossoms Flower Boutique.

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See more pictures here: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/social-pics/b2b-brews-in-rural-view

1. Joly Albarracin and Marti Harris  

2. Lilly Kitching and Shirlz Russell  

3. Vanessa Koster and Emma Murphy  

4. Elissa Hatherly, Zoe Barrow and Janet Ambrose  

5. Paul Beardmore and Solveig Lobo

6. Emily Stamatovich, Ashleen O’Neill and Claire Tobin

7. Ellen Madden, Erin Ryley, Gary, Kristy-Lee O’Brien and Rachel Barbeler

8. James Hunter, Joanne Sharam and Kate Stanton

9. Wendy Steindl and Katrina Burt

10. Maree Sturdy and Jenny Winton  

11. Phil Deguara, Kim Baldacchino, Frances Deguara, Lucy Deguara, Georgi Deguara. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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Friday 22^nd May  

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Mackay Outdoor Adventure plus Home and Lifestyle Expo  

8.30am - (Three Day Event - Friday-Sunday )

The Mackay Outdoor Adventure plus Home and Lifestyle Expo is set to bring together the best in travel, lifestyle and home inspiration, offering visitors a chance to explore everything from off-grid escapes to everyday home upgrades. Held as a ticketed event, the expo will showcase caravans, camper trailers, hybrids and 4x4 vehicles alongside smart camping gear, outdoor technology, home improvement ideas and décor inspiration. Visitors can also discover travel destinations, enjoy live entertainment and take advantage of exclusive expo-only deals. Designed as a one-stop destination for inspiration and planning, the event invites attendees to explore how their lifestyle and next adventure can come together in one place.

Mackay Showgrounds  

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Saturday 23^rd May

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Botanic Gardens Open Day   

8am

Celebrate nature at the Botanic Gardens Open Day this Saturday, May 23, from 8am to noon at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. The free event will feature community displays, workshops, native wildlife, plant sales, children’s activities and a selection of food and drink. Visitors of all ages are encouraged to come along, explore the gardens and learn more about the region’s unique plant life in a relaxed outdoor setting. For details, contact the gardens on 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

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Writing for Performance – Free Workshop  

10am

Aspiring writers and creative minds are invited to step into the world of live storytelling at a free theatre writing workshop this Saturday, May 23, at the Dudley Denny City Library. Facilitated by Cassandra Ramsay, the two-hour session will explore how to craft compelling characters, build dramatic tension and create moments designed for the stage. Supported by Mackay Regional Council Libraries and the Queensland Writers Centre, the workshop runs from 10am to noon, with beginners and experienced writers welcome. Attendance is free, but bookings are essential.

Dudley Denny City Library

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Broken Ballerina Candle Lighting Ceremony  

5pm

The Mackay community is being encouraged to come together in remembrance and solidarity at a candle lighting ceremony marking Domestic and Family Violence Prevention Month. Hosted by Broken Ballerina Inc., the event will be held at the Mackay Surf Club on Saturday, May 23 from 5pm. The ceremony will honour lives lost to domestic and family violence while supporting those impacted, with survivors, families, frontline workers and community members invited to stand together as candles are lit in remembrance and hope.

Mackay Surf Club 

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Sunday 24^th May

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Mackay Country & Western Club Family Afternoon

1.30pm

The Mackay Country & Western Club is inviting the community to enjoy an afternoon of live music and country entertainment at its Family Afternoon on Sunday, May 24, at the Senior Citizens Hall. Commencing at 1.30pm, the event features walk-up performances with backing from a live band, creating an open stage atmosphere for musicians and visitors alike. Admission is $5, with all welcome, including visitors to the region. Organisers are encouraging attendees to arrive ready for a relaxed afternoon of music, with club memberships also due on the day. For more information, contact Charlie on 0408 776 564.

Senior Citizens Hall

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Tuesday 26^th May

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The Mum Hub – Sparkly Brain Society  

10am

Mums seeking connection and understanding are invited to join a supportive neurodivergent mothers group held every Tuesday at 10am at The Mum Hub Mackay. Facilitated by founder Amanda Fenton through The Held Project, the relaxed gatherings offer a welcoming space for mums on the spectrum or those who simply feel they don’t fit the usual mould. Children are welcome, with the space suited to babies and young toddlers. Tea and coffee will be provided as mums share conversation, support and community.

10/46 Mulherin Dr, Mackay Harbour

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BMA Kidspace – Free Art, Craft & Music for Toddlers  

9.30am  

Families are invited to enjoy a vibrant morning of creativity and music at Artspace Mackay as part of the popular free toddlers’ program BMA Kidspace, designed for children aged 0–5 years. Running one Tuesday each month, the drop-in program offers two art-making sessions alongside live music designed to encourage playful, co-operative learning. Sessions run from 9.30am to 1.30pm, with families welcome to come and go throughout the day. Presented by Artspace Mackay and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, the program requires no bookings, with upcoming dates scheduled across the year for families to simply turn up and take part.

Artspace Mackay 

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The countdown is officially on for one of the region’s most anticipated community events: the 2026 Pioneer Valley Show!

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Set to light up the Pioneer Valley Showgrounds on Sunday, 14th June 2026, this much-loved one-day spectacular is gearing up to deliver a full day of colour, excitement and country charm, welcoming more than 16,000 visitors through its gates.

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Proudly presented by the Pioneer Valley Agricultural Show Society, the event has earned its reputation as “the best one-day show in Australia,” and it’s easy to see why. From the moment gates open, the show comes alive with the sights, sounds and energy of true rural celebration.

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Families can look forward to thrilling rides, free entertainment, agricultural exhibits, competitions, live displays and an unbeatable selection of food stalls offering all the classic show day favourites. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline, exploring local talent, or simply enjoying a relaxed day out with family and friends, this is the show day for you.

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The Pioneer Valley Show is designed to bring the community together, celebrating the region’s agricultural roots while showcasing the best of local creativity, industry and entertainment. It’s a place where generations meet, where children experience the magic of the show for the first time, and adults return year after year for tradition, laughter and connection.

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Pre-purchased tickets are now available online, with savings on offer including a Family Pass (2 adults and 2 children) for $55 and bonus ride ticket sheets for $25. Show organisers are also encouraging visitors to get in early to make the most of value-packed options and avoid missing out on the day.

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Gate entry also gives visitors the chance to win major prizes, including a $1000 fuel voucher from Crokers Fuel & Oil and a family pass on a speed boat.

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So mark it in bold on the calendar: Sunday, 14th June 2026. Bring the family, bring your friends, and step into a day where the Valley comes alive with energy, community spirit and unforgettable show day magic.

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What: 2026 Pioneer Valley Show

When: Sunday, 14th June 2026

Where: Pioneer Valley Showgrounds

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Monthly Markets 

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Marian Markets
Held on the 3rd Sunday of every month from 8am to 12pm, the Marian Markets are set within the grounds of the Holy Rosary Church at Marian. Visitors can enjoy a great variety of stalls, delicious food, and a welcoming community atmosphere, making it a lovely way to spend a Sunday morning.

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Pinnacle Markets
The Pinnacle Markets are held on the 3rd Sunday of each month from 9am to 1pm at the Pinnacle Family Hotel. Featuring a range of local stalls and community spirit, the markets are a great opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy a relaxed day out. Stallholder bookings can be made by calling 4958 5207. Markets will continue monthly through to September.

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Eungella Community Markets
Held on the 2nd Sunday of every month from 9am to 1pm at the Eungella Memorial Hall, 5 North Street, Eungella, the Eungella Community Markets offer a family friendly experience in an undercover, air-conditioned, all-weather venue. With local stalls and picnic areas available, it is a great reason to visit the beautiful Eungella region and enjoy a day in the community. 

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Upcoming Events

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Sunday 31st May 

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Finch Hatton Cattle Camp 
Young people aged 5-25 across the region are encouraged to get involved in the Finch Hatton Cattle Camp on Sunday, 31 May 2026, at the Finch Hatton Showgrounds. Open to ages 5 to 25, the hands-on day will feature cattle husbandry workshops, junior judging, practical learning experiences and plenty of fun for those keen to learn more about the agricultural industry. With lunch provided and limited spots available, organisers encourage interested participants to book early and be part of a day celebrating country spirit, learning and community connection.
Finch Hatton Showgrounds 

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Sunday 14th June 

Pioneer Valley Show 
Experience the charm and excitement of the Pioneer Valley Show on Sunday 14th June from 8.30am at the picturesque grounds in Finch Hatton. This iconic one-day agricultural show attracts more than 16,000 visitors and is packed with exhibits, entertainment and family fun. Enjoy live music at the bar, food and show attractions throughout the day, with celebrations continuing into the evening. Bring cash and settle in for a classic country show experience in the heart of the valley.
Finch Hatton Showgrounds 

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Year 4 student Jack from St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School West Mackay was thrilled to receive a surprise reply from Dav Pilkey after writing him a letter about how the Dog Man books inspired him to start creating his own comics. Photo supplied

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Excitement has been building in Year 4 at St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School, West Mackay, as one student’s creativity and initiative have led to an unforgettable experience!

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As part of a fast finisher activity in 4P, students were invited to choose from a selection of tasks once they had completed their classwork. One option encouraged students to write a letter to the author of a book they had enjoyed.  

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Inspired by his passion for the Dog Man series, Jack eagerly took on the challenge and wrote a heartfelt piece of fan mail to author Dav Pilkey.

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In his letter, Jack shared how the Dog Man books motivated him to start creating his own comics. With the help of Miss Plath, Jack’s letter was carefully addressed and posted all the way to America, an exciting journey that would take patience and hope!

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That patience paid off in a big way.

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Recently, Jack was thrilled to receive a reply from Dav Pilkey himself!  

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All the way from the USA, the package included a personal letter, a special bookmark, and an official Dog Man badge. The surprise brought immense joy and inspiration, reinforcing Jack’s enthusiasm for storytelling and illustration.

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Jack shared his thoughts about the experience:

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“I loved reading Dogman because I wanted to make comics when I grow up and when I started reading Dogman I thought I could start making them straight away. Because the characters George and Harold were making comics in the start of the book, I thought I’d try and do the same thing, so I made a full comic book.”

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He continued:

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“I’m starting my second one about Maya who brought a dinosaur to life and there is an Evil Dog, Catman, and a robot named ER.”

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On receiving the reply, Jack said:

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“I was very excited and I didn’t think he would write back. I’m grateful for my teacher posting the letter to Dav Pilkey for me.”

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Jack’s first comic has already impressed his teachers, featuring detailed illustrations, engaging dialogue, and imaginative storylines. Now working on his second comic, Jack is more motivated than ever to continue developing his craft.

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This wonderful story highlights the power of literacy, creativity, and taking initiative.

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A simple classroom activity has sparked a meaningful connection and inspired a young writer to pursue his passion.

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Congratulations, Jack! We can’t wait to see where your creativity takes you next.

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Cr Peter Sheedy, Mayor Greg Williamson and Curator of Botanic Areas Lisa Kermode strolling through the newly renovated Shade Garden. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara  

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A newly upgraded pathway through the Tropical Shade Garden at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens has officially reopened to the public as of last Monday, 18^th May to mark the beginning of Botanic Gardens Week.

The project replaces the former gravel pathways with 320 metres of concrete paths and 60 metres of modwood boardwalk, improving accessibility for visitors exploring one of the gardens’ most popular attractions.

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Mayor Greg Williamson said more than $420,000 had been invested in the upgrade.

“The shade garden is one of the most iconic features of our botanic gardens,” he said.

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“We have the ability now to get people of all ages and groups into here, because it used to be a pebbled pathway.

“It is now a wide shared pathway that's accessible to people with wheelchairs and people living with disabilities.”

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The improved access means visitors who previously found the area difficult to navigate can now experience the lush garden environment.

“So if you've never been to the Shade Garden before, because you couldn't access it, now you can,” Mayor Williamson said.

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He said spending time in nature also offered important wellbeing benefits.

“When you're able to access nature, and just listen to the birds and the environment around you… that does wonders for your mental health and wellbeing.”

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The new pathway also allows easier access to several garden features, including the crane sculptures gifted in 2004 by Mackay’s Japanese sister city, Matsuura.

Curator of botanic areas Lisa Kermode said the reopening formed part of a broader program of events for Botanic Gardens Week.

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“We’re really excited to be reopening the Tropical Shade Garden and welcoming visitors back,” she said.

“These are a collection of native and also exotic plants that all thrive in shady conditions,” Ms Kermode said.

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The new playground at Woodlands District Park has drawn inspiration from the natural environment. (Image for illustrative purposes only and subject to change.) Image supplied

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Mackay Regional Council has awarded a $2.3-million contract to Fergus Builders to construct an inclusive playground at Woodlands District Park in Andergrove, marking an exciting step forward for accessible recreation in the region.

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Inspired by the pale banded snail, a species native to Mackay’s woodland areas, the playground’s design cleverly echoes the spiral of the snail’s shell.  

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Mayor Greg Williamson said, “We’ve listened closely to residents and are creating a space where families, nature lovers and people of all abilities can come together and enjoy the outdoors,” he said.

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“This new playground has been thoughtfully designed so it’s truly inclusive, allowing children of all abilities to play, explore and interact together,” he said.

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Local State Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said supporting councils to deliver vital and accessible infrastructure is at the heart of the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to Queenslanders.

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“This is not just a playground, it’s a fresh opportunity with the promise that every child, regardless of ability, has a place to play, learn and laugh within our community,” Mr Dalton said.

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The playground will feature accessible ramps, inclusive swings, a wheelchairfriendly carousel, sensory panels and two connected play towers offering a variety of challenges.

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There will be direct wheelchair access to one of the towers and a shared slide.

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There will also be a new amenities block including a Changing Places facility for people living with disabilities.

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Off-street parking at Broomdykes Drive and Schnapper Court is also included in this phase of the project.

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Construction of the playground is expected to begin in June and be completed by December 2026, weather permitting.

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Residents can stay up to date or view the project’s master plan at:
www.connectingmackay.com.au/woodlands

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This project is funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

The new playground at Woodlands District Park has drawn inspiration from the natural environment. (Image for illustrative purposes only and subject to change.) Image supplied

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Mackay Regional Council has awarded a $2.3-million contract to Fergus Builders to construct an inclusive playground at Woodlands District Park in Andergrove, marking an exciting step forward for accessible recreation in the region.

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Inspired by the pale banded snail, a species native to Mackay’s woodland areas, the playground’s design cleverly echoes the spiral of the snail’s shell.  

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Mayor Greg Williamson said, “We’ve listened closely to residents and are creating a space where families, nature lovers and people of all abilities can come together and enjoy the outdoors,” he said.

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“This new playground has been thoughtfully designed so it’s truly inclusive, allowing children of all abilities to play, explore and interact together,” he said.

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Local State Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said supporting councils to deliver vital and accessible infrastructure is at the heart of the Crisafulli Government’s commitment to Queenslanders.

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“This is not just a playground, it’s a fresh opportunity with the promise that every child, regardless of ability, has a place to play, learn and laugh within our community,” Mr Dalton said.

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The playground will feature accessible ramps, inclusive swings, a wheelchairfriendly carousel, sensory panels and two connected play towers offering a variety of challenges.

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There will be direct wheelchair access to one of the towers and a shared slide.

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There will also be a new amenities block including a Changing Places facility for people living with disabilities.

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Off-street parking at Broomdykes Drive and Schnapper Court is also included in this phase of the project.

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Construction of the playground is expected to begin in June and be completed by December 2026, weather permitting.

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Residents can stay up to date or view the project’s master plan at:
www.connectingmackay.com.au/woodlands

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This project is funded by the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland Program in association with Mackay Regional Council.

Nigel dalton, Anthony Edwards, Amy Jeffcoat, Andrea Bye and John Doyle. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara

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Volunteers from all walks of life came together at the 2026 Mackay Volunteers Expo, where the spirit of giving back was proudly on display inside the Big Shed Pavilion at the Mackay Showgrounds on May 17th. The free event attracted a strong crowd and featured dozens of local organisations, from wildlife and animal carers to rescue services, arts groups and sporting clubs.

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Visitors had the opportunity to learn about a wide range of volunteer roles and speak directly with representatives about how they could get involved. The expo highlighted the vital role volunteers play across the Mackay region and inspired many attendees to consider offering their time, skills and compassion to support important community causes.

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Image for illustrative purposes only. Photo supplied

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A Mackay couple are celebrating a life-changing windfall after a spontaneous decision to buy a last-minute lottery ticket turned into a $2 million prize over the weekend.

The North Queensland pair held one of the five division one winning entries nationally in Saturday Gold Lotto draw 4677, drawn on Saturday 16th May. Each division one winning entry pocketed $2 million.

Despite having known about their multi-million-dollar windfall for several days, the couple said the news was still sinking in.

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“We’ve been patiently waiting for this phone call since Saturday!” the winning wife laughed.

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“It’s absolutely life-changing! We’re pretty excited.

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“Around 6pm on Saturday night we saw that $10 million was on offer in the draw and we decided to put on a last-minute ticket.

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“Then hubby frantically came in around 9pm on Saturday night with the The Lott app open and said, ‘Is this true? Did we win $2 million?’.

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“It’s come at the most perfect time. We were going through a bit, and we were worried for our family.

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“We can now pay off the mortgage, complete home renovations and go on an overseas holiday!

“We’re keen to go to Scotland and do a trip around Australia.

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“There will definitely be some celebrations tonight.

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“Thank you! Thank you!”

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The winning numbers in Saturday Gold Lotto draw 4677 were 32, 10, 3, 39, 33 and 23, while the supplementary numbers were 42 and 37.

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Across Australia, there were five division one winning entries in the draw, with three in Queensland and one each in New South Wales and Western Australia.

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In 2025, more than 121.6 million winners took home more than $3.93 billion in prize money.
 
Last financial year, Australia’s official lotteries contributed more than $1.66 billion via state lottery taxes and donations to help community initiatives, such as hospitals, health research, disaster relief and education.  As part of its commitment to supporting the community, The Lott proudly supports Play For Purpose, the not-for-profit charity raffle that gives Australians the chance to win while helping more than 500 causes across the country.

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I would like to include one of my own poems this week entitled ‘Voyager in the Darkness’. I wrote it a few years ago, but I find myself coming back to it because it always seems to resonate at different points in my life. Navigating your early twenties really can feel like being a ‘voyager in the darkness’. You’re trying to figure out and make sense of a world that is constantly changing. Things that once seemed so clear become blurred, ideas that you were certain on become riddled with doubt.  

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As a songwriter, poetry is something I’ve always loved to engage in. That’s what really prompted me to start the creative corner. Poetry is one of the oldest forms of artistic human expression. It’s much older than the novel which only dates back about a thousand years. Some of our oldest most influential stories such as the Iliad or the Odyssey by Homer, were told in verse, not prose.  

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People always wonder what it is that distinguishes us from animals. Cruelty? Compassion? Intelligence?  

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I think the only thing that truly differentiates us from other animals is our ability to tell stories. They are the essence of what it means to be human. The fabric of our society is built on storytelling. We tell stories on dates, at dinner parties, during work morning teas. Life’s most significant landmarks, whether they are weddings or funerals – are celebrated and mourned through stories.  

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Poetry is one of the oldest forms of storytelling and one of the most important. It grants us permission to express things in ways that grammatical rules and conventional sentence structure may not allow.  

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Poet’s Corner

Voyager in the Darkness

The sun that timidly kissed the ambivalent glass in the afternoon,

The baby-faced moon that haunted the ripples of water in the evening,

A journey of joy, stress and laughter,

Whose beauty is burdened by a tinge of sadness,

At the knowledge it signifies the end of a grand chapter,

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Prepared yet apprehensive,

Excited yet terrified,  

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A melancholic spirit,  

The seconds that move into hours and then days,

Days that will mark the end and beginning of everything,

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A plunge into the violent abyss,

Letting nature carve its path,

The apathetic endless sea,

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Into the night,  

The land of new on the horizon,

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This week’s winner is Shantal Cornford for the theme of comfort.

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Shantal took this photo of two baby birds sitting comfortably in their nest in a bush at Port of Airlie.

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Next week’s theme is Window View.

Contributed with thanks to Whitsunday Amateur Photography.

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