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Friday 20 March Dancing With Heart 6:30pm A night of entertainment with a purpose, Dancing With Heart returns on Friday 20 March, bringing local personalities to the stage for a fun-filled dance competition. Guided by professional choreographers, participants will perform to raise funds for the My Hospital Foundation. Guests can enjoy dinner, vote for the People’s Choice Award and help support better outcomes for local patients and families. Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre Saturday 21 March New Moon Ultra “Off the Beaten Track” Trial Run Series 6am Test your endurance at this unique overnight trail running event held under the March new moon. Athletes can choose from 6km, 36km or 72km distances, with races starting every hour from 6pm through to 6am. Prize money is up for grabs, and participants will take on exclusive trails only open for this event — making it a one-of-a-kind challenge for runners of all levels. Rowallan Park Dads and Bubs Baby Bounce 10am Dads are invited to bond with their little ones at this fun and interactive Baby Bounce session. Featuring nursery rhymes, songs and playful activities, the session supports early language development from birth to walking age. It’s a great way to connect, create special memories and support your child’s growth. This is a free event, but bookings are essential. Dudley Denny City Library Autumn Orchid Show Saturday 8am – 4pm & Sunday 9am – 2pm The Mackay & District Orchid Society will host its annual Autumn Orchid Show on March 21–22 at the Senior Citizens Centre on Macalister Street, featuring a stunning display of flowering orchids alongside plants and gardening supplies for sale, including pots, potting medium, tags and hangers, with raffles and refreshments also available; the event runs from 8am to 4pm Saturday and 9am to 2pm Sunday, with a $2 coin entry, and further information is available by contacting President Noel Acton on 0409 637 384. Senior Citizens Centre, Macalister Street Rotary Charity Wine Dinner 5:30pm Enjoy an elegant evening of fine food and wine at the Rotary Charity Wine Dinner on Saturday 21 March. Featuring a five-course degustation with wine pairings, the night also includes a wine auction, raffle and lucky door prizes. Proceeds support charities assisting women and children impacted by domestic violence. Guests can expect a memorable night of dining, giving and community spirit. Harrup Park Country Club Sunday 22 March Cuppa With Your Neighbour – Northern Beaches 9am Connect with your community at this free “Cuppa with Your Neighbour” event on Saturday 22 March at the Northern Beaches Community Hub. Enjoy a complimentary coffee while meeting locals and making new connections in a relaxed, friendly setting. Proudly supported by the Mackay Regional Council, this welcoming event is open to everyone — whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident. Northern Beaches Community Hub Tuesday 24 March Walk and Talk Book Club 8am Combine a love of reading with the outdoors at this unique walking book club set in the Botanic Gardens. Meet fortnightly for relaxed walks, chats and book discussions, with a new title to explore each month. Stay after for a social coffee and connect with fellow book lovers. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, sun protection and water for this enjoyable, wellbeing-focused community activity. Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Wednesday 25 March Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam 6pm Enjoy a night of live music and laid-back vibes at the Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam on Wednesday 25 March at the Seabreeze Hotel. Featuring acclaimed pianist Andrew Farrell, the evening kicks off with a performance before opening the stage for a community jam session. Free entry, with dinner bookings recommended. 72 Pacific Esplanade, Mackay Thursday 26 March Wine Society March Event 6:30pm Wine lovers are invited to the first Wine Society event of 2026 at The Dispensary Mackay on Thursday 26 March. Guests will enjoy an evening of exceptional wine tastings paired with a specially designed menu, hosted by Graeme Connors. Open to both new and returning guests, this relaxed event promises great wine, food and company. The Dispensary Mackay
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The PCYC’s Awakening Spirits 2026 moved audiences on Wednesday 11 March with touching stories told through dance. An audience of more than 1000 was drawn to watch 200 performers in a sold-out session at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre. Awakening Spirits is an annual performance that brings together young people from 13 schools across Mackay, who take part in PCYC's Cultural Arts in Dance program. Since beginning in 2022, the audience has rocketed from just 175 people to a sold-out audience at the convention centre this year. The piece performed was ‘The Waterhole’, a concept and story developed by PCYC Queensland’s First Nations Coordinator and the man behind Cultural Arts In Dance, Patrick Thaiday. It is inspired by the magical stories of The Myths and Legends of the Torres Strait, a book written by the late Margaret Lawrie. The story begins with Tilly, a white sulphur-crested cockatoo, who watches as a plume of smoke rises from the canopy of the Australian outback bush lands. Indigenous warriors and hunters from communities conduct a cultural burn – a land management practice refined over thousands of years. From her vantage point, Tilly observes the hunters moving alongside the fire’s perimeter, tracking animals displaced by its flames. As the story goes on, the waterhole, long a point of convergence for countless species, begins to change. Tilly notices a dark, viscous substance appearing beneath the surface. Drawn by concern she descends to investigate. As her feet touch the water, the substance adheres to her feathers releasing harsh toxic fumes that engulf her feet. She takes flight only to be flipped over by the weight of her wings. Her bright plumage darkens rapidly, and her beak blackens under the spreading poison. When Tilly rises again, she is no longer the white cockatoo she once was. Transformed by the dark waters, she takes form of a willy wagtail – a creature associated with omens, messages, and transitions. This metamorphosis positions her within a larger conflict, linking her fate to forces that extend far beyond the waterholes edge. Now known as Willy the Wagtail, she becomes a bearer of warnings and stories, navigating a world where ancient myth and emerging threats collide. When the story of ‘The Waterhole’ ends, all performers returned to perform a choreographed dance to The Seekers song, I am Australian. We are one, but we are many And from all the lands on earth we come We'll share a dream and sing with one voice "I am, you are, we are Australian" The bright smiles, excitement, and emotion from the performers did not leave many dry eyes in the auditorium; the room filling with a feeling: this is what we want our Australia to be. Contributed with thanks to PCYC Queensland’s First Nations State Partnerships Manager Michael Cedar 1-4 - Spirits were high as Mackay’s young dancing stars took to the stage. Photos supplied.
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Follow the Sun’ to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music Xavier Rudd, Mental as Anything, The Whitlams and more on first lineup announcement for November 2026 The call is out for fans of Xavier Rudd to ‘Follow the Sun’ to the 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music from November 6-8. Set to arrive straight from a European festival tour, the popular Australian singer-songwriter says in addition to his much-loved catalogue of hits, a few surprises are in store for the Whitsunday audience, hinting: “There will be some new music at this show, which will be played for the first time in Australia”. Having visited Airlie Beach briefly on previous Australian tours, Rudd is already familiar with the region’s scenic beauty, but this will be his first time playing its signature event, dubbed a ‘party in paradise’ and the ‘ultimate music holiday’. “From the photos I’ve seen, the festival setting is amazing,” he said. “My music is definitely a celebration of our natural world, so a place like Airlie feels especially aligned with songs like ‘Follow the Sun’. “These are the kinds of shows I love, and hopefully, weather permitting, we can actually pull down the tent and play under the stars!” Equally as famous for his unwavering commitment to social and environmental activism as he is for his extraordinary gifts as a musician, the significance of playing at a destination known as the ‘Heart of the Great Barrier Reef’ isn’t lost on Rudd. “I’ve been lucky to witness some of the good work that people are doing in the world of reef regeneration and that’s inspiring,” he said. “Hopefully we can continue down that path.” Also urging festivalgoers to ‘Live it Up’ in Airlie Beach is beloved Australian band Mental As Anything, whose performance will form part of a historic 50th anniversary tour, comprising a limited number of exclusive festival appearances and select metropolitan headline shows. Original member and iconic pop artist, Reg Mombassa, is promising fans a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience the band’s timeless hits live once more, and celebrate their unique blend of songwriting, artistry, and performance flair. “We’re known for being a party band, so the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is a perfect fit,” he said. In total agreeance that there’s ‘No Aphrodisiac’ quite like it are The Whitlams, whose frontman Tim Freedman says the band is thrilled to be one of the festival’s headliners for 2026. “I’ve been wanting to return to the Whitsundays for decades and now we have the chance,” he said, adding: “it’s a great line-up, music lifts the soul, and we rock!” Other additions to the first line-up release include The Radiators, Adam Harvey, 19-Twenty, Skinny Living (UK), Little Quirks, The Mason Rack Band, The Wayward Suns, Loonaloop, Salt & Steel and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2025 Passport to Airlie competition winners Monroe. Tickets are on sale now at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au costing $325 for a three-day pass, or $1100 for a VIP package, both including entry to the opening and after parties that bookend the main event. Ends Media Enquiries: media@airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au / 0402 126 461
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On Monday 16th March, North Queensland–raised Judah Kelly attended the 98th Academy Awards in Los Angeles, where the short film he starred in, The Singers, was awarded an Oscar. The film tied for the win with another short film, in an Oscars occurrence that whilst rare, is indeed possible. This is a huge achievement that represents years of hard work, building craft and nurturing talent; Judah has no doubt made the community incredibly proud. Born in Townsville, Judah attended school in Bowen where he took part in various school choirs, an experience that inspired his musicianship and developed his performance capabilities. He continued his secondary education in Mackay before attending the Junior Academy of Country Music in Tamworth (NSW). Judah auditioned for the X Factor in 2012 and 2014. Despite not finding success, he was not deterred, deciding to audition for The Voice in 2017. After singing ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ in a blind audition he made it through the finals, where he became the official winner of the sixth season. His newest achievement is receiving the Oscar as one of the stars of short film The Singers, which received an award for Best Live Action Short at 98th Academy Awards. Directed by filmmaker Sam Davis, the film is an 18-minute musical comedy which centres around a spontaneous singing competition that breaks out amongst a group of random patrons in a dive bar. The film is based on the 1850 Ivan Turgenev story of the same name. Prior to the academy awards, the film had already won 35 awards across 50 film festivals in 2025. Judah’s inclusion in the film came out of a unique casting process. Rather than hiring actors through traditional means, filmmaker Sam Davis spent months scouring the internet for authentic voices he believed would bring the story to life. As a result, Judah was sought out for his raw vocal talent. “At first they emailed me to ask me to be in the film and I don’t act so I thought it was just a scam”, Judah said in an interview to Channel Nine’s Today Show prior to the ceremony. “They were very persistent with getting me to act. Then I found out everyone was a first-time actor and we all thought it was a scam. It turned out they did want us for a film – it’s about men and vulnerability”. Following the victory, Judah took to Instagram to express his joy. “We don’t even know how to act. Our film just won an Oscar!” The film tied with another short feature marking only the seventh time in Oscars’ history that a category closed with two winners. This is a fantastic achievement, and Judah should be incredibly proud of his efforts. He has certainly made communities across Bowen and Mackay immensely proud. Captions Judah Kelly, local legend fresh from Oscar win. Photo sourced: Facebook
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This Easter long weekend, head to Airlie Beach Hotel to catch some X Factor action with Andrew Wishart, star of the 2011 series.
Against the odds and as the crowd favourite, Andrew made it to the Grand Final of X-Factor Australia; to be placed runner-up in the series, missing out on winning by 1 per cent of the national vote.
Before his X Factor success Andrew worked as a sales manager for 30 years but that all changed when his children made him audition for X Factor Australia.
Despite being away from his family throughout X Factor he thoroughly enjoyed it, he added that it was pretty cool making it that far and being on national television, watched by an audience of millions.
Andrew beat more than 30,000 hopefuls to be Runner Up on the show and has since used his fame to continue the success.
Since X Factor, Andrew has started doing music full time and has been performing gigs and shows Australia wide and even playing internationally.
He has performed with the likes of Kylie Minogue, Michael Bolton, George Benson, Stevie Nicks, Delta Goodrem, Darryl Braithwaite, Adam Thompson, Glenn Shorrock, Ross Wilson, Brian Cadd, and many more
He loves performing, and although he doesn’t have a favourite song as such, he said anything with “good messages and good vocals, something people to sing along to.”
Armed with little more than his acoustic guitar and his powerfully unique voice, Andrew possesses a resonance in his performances that transcends generations.
Andrew has visited the Whitsundays before and is looking forward to coming back, he loves the blue waters and weather.
When Andrew isn’t performing, he loves to read in his spare time.
Last Song you listened to - We Close Our Eyes by Go West
‘Cracking song’
Favourite to perform - Dakota by Stereophonics
Favourite song - Collingwood Football song
Least favourite song - Carlton Football song
What: Andrew Wishart
When: Thursday 28 March 6.30pm – 9.30p
Friday 29 March 7pm – 10pm
Saturday 30 March 6pm – 8pm
Sunday 31 March 6:30pm to 9:30pm
Where: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
Tickets: Absolutely free but It’s Recommended To Reserve A Table!
Photos Supplied
The line-up for the 2024 Whitsundays Writers Festival continues to generate excitement with the addition of three highly-acclaimed authors.
The Whitsundays Writers Festival proudly expands its schedule of literary luminaries with the addition of three authors: Karina Kilmore, Melissa Ashley, and Jack Roney.
President Karen Jacobsen expressed her delight and excitement.
"We have built a substantial list of authors this year as we are focused on writing excellence," Karen commented.
"This Festival will be a joy for readers, writers, and thinkers."
Karina Kilmore, Chair of the Australian Crime Writers Association, brings a wealth of experience from her background in finance journalism and extensive literary contributions. Her crime fiction debut, Where the Truth Lies, has garnered critical acclaim and nominations for various awards, showcasing her prowess as a storyteller.
Award winning Queenslander, Dr Melissa Ashley, is known for her multifaceted talents as a writer, poet, and academic. She enriches the Festival line-up with her poetic sensibilities and historical insights. Her novel The Birdman's Wife, inspired by the life of Elizabeth Gould, reflects Melissa’s dedication to meticulous research and literary craftsmanship.
Queenslander Jack Roney, drawing from his remarkable 33-year career in law enforcement, infuses his crime fiction with unparalleled authenticity and gripping realism. As a former police officer turned full-time author, Jack’s novels offer readers an immersive experience into the gritty world of crime and investigation.
WHAT: Whitsundays Writers Festival
WHEN: Friday, September 6, to Sunday, September 8, 2024
SUBSCRIBE: whitsundayswriters.com
Highly hilarious and extremely popular English comedian Ross Noble is coming to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre this August.
Marking his 21st solo stand up tour, Noble is launching a bunch of fresh comedy with the ‘Jibber Jabber Jamboree’.
Audiences can expect Noble to display his expertise in improv and audience participation, guaranteed to get the audiences laughing in hysterics.
Noble’s Jibber Jabber Jamboree is taking him all around Australia, from Alice Springs, to Wollongong, Mackay, and Proserpine.
Throughout his career Noble has been nominated for and won awards and he has also become the biggest selling act at Edinburgh and Melbourne comedy festivals.
Noble’s career fame came from his television appearances, in particular interviews, and his appearances on celebrity quiz shows.
In 2007 he was voted the 10th greatest stand-up comic on Channel 4’s 100 Greatest Stand-Ups.
Also in 2007, Noble toured around Australia on his motorbike, travelling more than 26,000 kilometres and filming it on the way. The show was later aired in 2009.
Noble has also ventured from comedy and has starred in films and plays.
In 2012, he made his film debut in the comedy horror movie ‘Stitches’, where he starred as Stitches, the killer clown.
In 2015 he made his musical theatre debut in The Producers and in 2018 was nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award for his performance in Mel Brooks Young Frankenstein musical in the West End.
Melbourne’s own Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band is checking into Airlie Beach for a mammoth weekend of non-stop Creedence, which will leave us cross tie walking.
Ramble Tamble was born in 1989, from a need to celebrate the unforgettable beats of Creedence Clearwater Revival.
Still led by the three who started the band, Ramble Tamble encompasses the values that fuelled Creedence Clearwater Revival during their hay day.
Known for their impeccable stage presence, unbelievable recreation of the original sound and spot-on attention to detail, no Creedence fan will be disappointed with the calibre of this show.
With all band members having professionally toured international stages, this is sure to be a rock show like no other.
“Creedence undoubtedly changed the landscape of rock and roll forever in both the late sixties and early seventies,” Ramble Tamble front man Brendan Meyers explained.
“And cemented themselves into a commercial zenith whose legacy remains to this very day.”
Following this unbelievable legacy, Ramble Tamble invites audiences to just close your eyes and let the near prefect recreation of the classics wash over you on this weekend of non-stop rock tunes.
“It's a Creedence tribute that no die-hard Creedence fan would be disappointed with,” Brendan explained.
Sunday will be a special show, depicting and performing Creedence Clearwater Revival’s hottest album, Cosmo’s Factory, the band’s fifth studio album, with six of the 11 tracks charting in the Top 5 of the Billboard Hot 100.
Ramble Tamble will also be sure to throw in key tracks from artists and bands that influenced these rockers, with their The Creedence Influence set list.
This commonly sold-out show will check into Airlie Beach for one powerful weekend, as part of their national tour across Australia.
WHAT: Australian Creedence Show with Ramble Tamble
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday March 23 and Sunday March 24, from 2pm to 5.30pm
TICKETS: Absolutely Free! But Best To Reserve A Table
Photos supplied
The Easter Bunny is about to come hopping through our region with both children and chocolate-loving adults excited for his arrival.
To celebrate the Easter weekend, two of our favourite family-friendly locals are putting on special events which are sure to entertain the kids while giving the parents time to relax with a nice cool bevvy.
Reef Gateway Hotel has created a special event – the Easter Family Fun Weekend which is due to take place on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 March.
There will be free face-painting on Saturday from 11.30am and live music from 6pm that evening.
On Sunday kids eat free from 12pm, terms and conditions apply.
All-day dining is available throughout the weekend but please note: the venue will be closed on Easter Friday.
Bring the family to The Reef for a weekend of eating, face-painting and live music!
Meanwhile at the Jubilee Tavern there is more fun to be had over the Easter long weekend.
Face-painting will take place on Sunday from 12pm-3pm and the kids colouring competition will be drawn at 3pm.
The venue will be closed on good Friday but will re-open Saturday and Sunday for all day dining with kids eat free for Sunday lunch (terms and conditions apply).
Ellie Goulding, Senior Operations Manager Mackay and Whitsundays said she is really excited about Easter and is looking forward to seeing the community come along to enjoy the free activities at both venues.
WHAT: Easter Long Weekend
WHERE: Jubilee Tavern
WHEN: 30-31 March
WHAT: Easter Fun Weekend
WHERE: Reef Gateway Hotel
WHEN: 30-31 March
Do you want to feel the electricity?
Do you want to feel the power?
Do you want a heart-stopping, head-banging performance?
Then make sure you go to see Thunderstruck, an AC/DC tribute band, at the Airlie Beach Hotel.
With a collective history spanning over 30 years, this AC/DC tribute show is bringing big beats and bigger energy for the metal heads of the Airlie Beach coast.
Often branded as one of the most authentic and accurate recreations of the iconic rockers, Thunderstruck is not a performance to miss!
We’ve got BJ Vernal as lead vocalist. With seamless beats and melodic tunes, BJ is often credited to accurately recreate the music of Brian Johnson and Bon Scott.
With melodic beats and even better tunes, close your eyes and you’ll swear you’ve heard the real deal.
Standing next to him is Shaun ‘Webby’ Webb, the Angus Young of the band, with the lead guitar, and the prowess of the seasoned performer, despite his youthful age.
Sharing at the stage with these two are Dave Ross on bass, Nick Hunt on drums and Mark ‘Cloudy’ Colautti on rhythm guitar, a crew which ensures great sound and even better heavy beats.
“It’s a long way to Melbourne if you wanna rock ‘n’ roll but it helps if it’s with Thunderstruck,” Mark Evans, formerly of AC/DC
WHAT: Thunderstuck: AC/DC Tribute
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 March, from 2pm to 5.30pm
TICKETS: Absolutely Free! But it’s best to book a table!
Photos supplied
Miss Lady Saint Diva is back, and she’s bringing her unforgettable charm for another round of Drag Queen Bingo.
And she doesn’t stop there, bringing along a special guest with her to ensure that the evening is full of non-stop laughter and excitement.
Tickets include entry, unmissable drag performances, raffle (with a selection of amazing prizes on offer) and, of course, the bingo.
Prepare for an evening of non-stop laughter, jaw-dropping drag performances and an amazing selection of prizes that will leave every bingo-er a winner.
WHAT: Drag Queen Bingo
WHERE: Reef Gateway Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, April 6 from 6pm
TICKETS: $35 available through https://bit.ly/49OqcVB
On Friday 15th March, well-known local identities will take to the stage to display their talents with the support of Choreographer Dolly Louw and back-up dancers from Fame Talent School. One participant will walk away with the coveted Mirror-Ball Trophy.
This night of entertainment is all for a great cause, raising money to support the Mackay Hospital Foundation.
Over the next four weeks we will profile two dancers each week. First up, Josh and Chloe.
Chloe Gunthorpe
Chloe Gunthorpe, a Director of Next Accounting, will be busting a move at the 2024 ‘Dancing with Heart’ Mackay Hospital Foundation.
With a client-focused approach, Chloe says she finds joy in helping businesses reach their goals whilst gaining trust, and often forming friendships with her clients along the way.
As Chloe dances her way through life, she finds confidence in expressing herself through movement. While exploring various dance styles, she embraces the opportunity to step out of her comfort zone.
“A lot of my dance moves require me to feel confident about myself – so it’s been nice to explore that,” she says.
Chloe admits that navigating lefts and rights on the dance floor can sometimes prove more challenging than crunching numbers in her profession.
“I’m good with numbers, but not directions apparently,” she laughed.
Beyond her professional endeavours, Chloe values the impactful work of the Mackay Hospital Foundation.
“The Mackay Hospital Foundation is so integral to our community and the health of our community.
“I am a huge believer in supporting the community and if I get to learn a few dance moves along the way and create some more connections and memories – than bonus!”
Josh Smith
As a Senior Account Executive with Elders Insurance, Josh Smith leads a whirlwind of diversity and excitement in the world of insurance. He provides a perspective of his day-to-day life through a lens of enthusiasm and a vibrant touch to his professional journey.
“One day, we're soaking in the tranquil scenery of Collinsville, chatting with local farmers helping them with farm insurance and the next, we're diving into the bustling world of Moranbah, assisting contractors in the mining sector to navigate the labyrinth of insurance intricacies.
“It's a rollercoaster ride where predictability takes a backseat, and every day unveils a new adventure.”
When it comes to dance, Josh has embraced the challenge of keeping up with Miss Dolly from Fame Talent Dance School and acknowledged it as an inspiring fitness revolution.
Josh says he has channelled his inner Patrick Swayze and mastered the "Swayze Shuffle."
“It's a delicate blend of attempting to recreate Patrick Swayze's smooth moves from Dirty Dancing while realizing my coordination might need some serious movie magic.
“But hey, it's all in good fun, right?”
““I'm passionate about ensuring that the money raised goes where it's needed most, supporting our local hospitals and healthcare initiatives though the Mackay Hospital Foundation,” he says.
Tutti is a vocal ensemble under the direction of Jan Whelan OAM. Jan is known around Mackay, not only for her work with the Mackay Choral Society and Mackay Musical Comedy Players, but also her accompanying work with soloists, school choirs and music ministries. Jan started the group in 2002 as a small ensemble and trios and quartets. Tutti members were very proud when in 2022 Jan was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Australia Day Awards for Services to Music as an Accompanist.
Current vocalists of the group include well-known members of the community, performers, teachers and key members of other performing groups. Their knowledge and expertise in different music styles combines to create a delectable program to share with local audiences. Hot Note is filled with luscious harmonies and features guest artists Vicki Jones on vocals and Belinda Rooney on flute.
CQCM student Cameron Hollis will entertain audience members in the foyer before the show with his beautiful guitar playing and the Con Friends Bar will be open to serve drinks and snacks.
Photo Credit: Supplied by Isobel Gillman, representative of vocal ensemble Tutti
Caption 1: Group members in headshots:
Top Row: Anne Atkinson, Vanessa Dale, Caroline Galea, Lynn Gallant
2nd Row: Isobel Gillman, Cecilia Hyde, Chantal Kay, Lauren Menzies
3rd Row: Louise Mullaney, Annie Pratt, Shona Rosser, Gwyneth Rupnik
4th Row: Caitlyn Schurmann, Nicole Thomson, Jan Whelan OAM
Caption 2: Vicki Jones (Black and White Image)
Caption 3: Belinda Rooney (Coloured Image)
What: Tutti presents Hot Note
When: Sat 09 March 7:30pm and Sun 10 March at 2:00pm
Where: CQCM Theatre Building 21 University Drive, 151 Boundary Rd, Ooralea
Cost: Adult $30, Concession $25, Child $20, plus family and group specials
Tickets: trybooking.com/CNYAC or call 0415167533
The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) is moving offsite, with a performance from the Australian Army’s 1 RAR Band at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens on Friday, 2 March, 2024.
The decision to host the performance from Townsville’s Band of the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (known as 1 RAR Band) at the offsite venue was made following the closure of the MECC’s Auditorium, due to storm damage over the Christmas period.
Director Community and Client Services Janine McKay said the Defence unit’s strong sense of community was something the MECC could not pass up on.
“We have been collaborating with the band to bring music workshops to schools, and a preview performance at Caneland Central,” Ms McKay said.
“We’re fortunate to have skilled staff who are able to deliver offsite events; and hosting free, live music, with the talented 1RAR Band at Meadowlands Amphitheatre is something we’re proud to offer our community,” she said.
One RAR Band supports all three Brigade units, other Defence organisations, and the wider community. The band comprises a 10-piece ensemble (drums, trumpets, trombones and saxophones) alongside vocalists, playing contemporary music that blends modern beats with Australian classics. After success following their Sunset Vibes performance at the Winton Outback Festival in 2023, the band are excited to bring their music to Mackay.
The MECC are encouraging all ages to come along and enjoy this free, family-friendly night out.
“This will be a memorable night out. Bring some chairs or a blanket and pack a picnic. We will also have a variety of food trucks available for those looking for savoury or desserts options,” Ms McKay said.
FREE EVENT
WHAT: The MECC Presents Sunset Vibes with the 1 RAR Band
WHEN: Saturday 2 March, 6.30pm
WHERE: Meadowlands Amphitheatre, Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Caption: A show-stopping performance from the Australian Army’s 1 RAR Band. Photos supplied
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Launched in 2020, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre is eager to bring back the 2024 instalment of the September Weekender, the popular event that keeps the entire family entertained.
Scheduled for the September School Holidays, this weekend extravaganza features the best of the best, from adults only evenings, musical icons, and circus performance.
Now, what’s on the agenda?
Day one will see award-winning cabaret, Briefs Factory, alongside celebrated songbird, Sahara Beck, return to the stage, following their sold-out shows.
Day two includes Australia Idol judge and iconic musician Marcia Hines to perform her album, ‘Still Shining’, plus many more of her hits.
Day three is kid-centric, including the Brats Carnival, a wild circus with fantastic music, acts of amazement and eye-popping party tricks, as part of the DBCT Kids Theatre Season.
Venue and Events Operations Manager, Jemma Carey, said the weekend is a celebration of live events, programmed to provide the ultimate weekend of live entertainment.
“We have programmed on these dates to encourage visitation to our region, three events over three days during the school holidays will provide both locals and visitors the chance to experience some of Australia’s best entertainers live in Mackay,” Ms Carey said.
“The first September Weekender took place over three-years ago, and we still get requests to bring it back. We’re excited by this announcement and the MECC team is excited to bring this flamboyant event to Mackay in September” Ms Carey said.
September Weekender events are currently on with tickets available at www.themecc.com.au
SEPTEMBER WEEKENDER
Friday 20 September | Briefs Factory Bite Club
Saturday 21 September | Marcia Hines
Sunday 22 September | DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season Brats Carnival
Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
SAVE THE DATE:
WHEN: September 20 – 22
WHERE: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
Are you ready for a fun and engaging night out?
Then the Collinsville-Scottville Kindy have the perfect event for you!
Raising funds for their kindy program, you can party it up for a good cause, with musical bingo the main entertainment.
Adults only, you can be sure this will be a hoot, with tickets including the choice of a beer or wine on arrival, nibbles, and a music bingo card.
But the fun doesn’t stop there, with raffles and a lucky door prize sure to bring more laughs to the room.
Double your chances at a win and purchase more music bingo cards for only $10 a piece, and come home a winner.
Tickets are only available through pre-purchase, so contact the Collinsville-Scottville Kindy on 4785 5425 today to purchase your tickets and book your winning table.
WHAT: Adults Only Music Bingo
WHERE: Collinsville FootyClub
WHEN: Friday, March 8, from 6pm
TICKETS: $30,sold through the Collinsville-Scottville Kindy, call 4785 5425
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