Every good event needs an after party and this happens every evening during Race Week when sun-kissed sailors make their pilgrimage to the Whitsunday Sailing Club lawns and the Festival Village.

Everyone in the community, whether they’ve been sailing or not, is invited to come down to the festivities where they can dine like kings from the selection of on-site food trucks, enjoy live music and a vibrant post-race atmosphere.

The main stage will be set up on the Lawn where presentations of the day’s winners will commence at 6.30pm, followed by live music from 7pm.

Mingle and mix with friends and strangers, soak up the ambience and celebrate our quintessential local sport.

For those that prefer a restaurant-style dining experience, head to 20 Degrees North at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, where you can dine inside or sit on the deck and watch the festivities below.

Evening festivities take place every night aside from Monday Lay Day and all are welcome to come and get involved.

The Airlie Beach Race Week social calendar culminates on Thursday, August 17 with the final night celebrations and a sensational firework display.

The community are welcome to watch the fireworks from anywhere along the Foreshore or come to the Festival Village.

WHAT: Festival Village

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club

WHEN: 10-17 August (not 14)

COST: Free for everyone

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Back by popular demand, Airlie Beach Race Week’s signature Long Table Lunch will delight guests with exotic flavours inspired by South American countries, brought to you with authentic tastes that excite and enliven your taste buds.

Seven decadent courses will be served, each matched with fine wine, good conversation and impeccable service.

At the helm of this elegant affair is Whitsunday Sailing Club Head Chef, Dean Atkin, who has personally designed the menu to give guests a diverse, full flavoured experience of South American cuisine.

From scallop ceviche to crispy spiced pork belly, soft shell crab and Chimmi Churri house smoked quail, each course will spark your palate and delight your senses.

Originally from the UK, Dean has spent his life travelling the world, eating different cuisine and learning from the best cooks at each destination.

When composing this menu, he felt passionate about bringing signature items from each country to life in his kitchen, ready to serve on your plate.

From Bolivia to Columbia, Argentina to Brazil, each dish will take you on a whirlwind tour of some of the world’s best cuisine.

“This is the ultimate fine-dining experience, a degustation of different tastes and flavours that everyone will enjoy,” said Dean.

“It doesn’t matter the size of your group; each course will be served individually as tasting pieces that are packed with flavour that encapsulates the essence of each one.”

An extravagant affair with sea views and a light balmy breeze, the Long Lunch will be held on the Whitsunday Sailing Club balcony where guests can watch yachts return after a day’s racing.

Soak up the ambience of Race Week and enjoy the fabulous wine pairings that make each course sing.

The final two dishes will be music to a sweet-tooth’s ear, with chocolate avocado mousse preceding a decadent custard tart.

What better way to finish a Long Lunch?

WHAT: Long Table Lunch

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club Balcony

WHEN: Sunday, August 13

TICKETS: $140pp

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Whitsunday Sailing Club Head Chef, Dean Atkin with two members of his team. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

First class service awaits at the decadent long table lunch. Photo supplied

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Bangers will soar over Bluewater Quay as the sun sets over the picturesque Pioneer River once again with the return of Rhythm and the Reef in 2023.

The unique waterfront location will welcome some of music’s biggest names while offering local acts the chance to play in front of a packed hometown crowd.

Leading the line-up this year is Sydney pop rock group Lime Cordiale, who have found success in the charts, at the ARIA Awards and in triple j’s Hottest 100 over the years.

Led by siblings Oli and Louis Leimbach, the band are currently on tour in the US, UK and Europe and will be sure to have everyone on their feet as the night takes over.

Lime Cordiale will be joined by iconic English rapper and singer Example, known for memorable hits like ‘Kickstart’ and ‘Changed the Way You Kissed Me’.

Now an Australian resident, Example returned to his home country to impress audiences at Glastonbury and Creamfields earlier this year and will be bringing the party to Mackay in September.

Emerging popstar Go-Jo has been entertaining audiences with viral hits and TikToks and gives Mackay the chance to hear his latest banger ‘Mrs. Hollywood’ and more live at Bluewater Quay.

Those looking for a boogie will be indulged by Daft Punk tribute act Discovery as they take you on a journey through the catalogue of one of dance music’s pioneer acts.

Lastly, Mackay’s Giant Palms, Clovr and Cherry plus Townsville’s Late November are all ready to wow their hometown crowds with catchy originals and craftily selected beats to make the festival a real north Queensland affair.

The festival will also feature live art from David Day, Muddy Grimes, Louis Gervais and Jungarray, as well as food and drink vendors.

Rhythm and the Reef is held in conjunction with Rumble on the Reef, regional Australia’s biggest skateboarding competition, which is held at the Sugarbowl from September 18-23.

WHAT: Rhythm and the Reef 2023

WHEN: Saturday, September 30

WHERE: Bluewater Quay

TICKETS: rhythmandthereef.com

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Sign up for this musical Contiki tour as the Mackay Choral Society takes you on the trip of a lifetime.

A musical tour of hits from around the world, both new and familiar, the program for Come Fly With Me has been in the planning for almost a year.

“Jan Whelan and I have spent many hours discussing, discarding and dissecting the repertoire selection you will hear,” said Musical Director Nicole Thomson.

“Covering eclectic styles including jazz, film, theatre and Australiana standards, we love each and every arrangement and know that you will too.”

With a long and distinguished career as an accompanist in the highest regard, Ms Whelan OAM returns to the Mackay Choral Society once more, and has been an integral part of the planning and executing of this program, aside from her accompanying role.

This is also the first solo show that Bernie Camilleri-Cheng has produced since becoming President of the Mackay Choral Society.

His enthusiasm for choral music of great quality and his energy at rehearsal has spread amongst the group throughout rehearsals.

With beautiful arrangements and a gorgeous musical blend, Come Fly With Me will have you tapping your toes and perhaps even singing along.

Visit Mackay Choral Society on Facebook for more information.

WHAT: Mackay Choral Society presents Come Fly With Me

WHEN: Saturday, August 5 at 7:30pm and Sunday, August 6 at 2:00pm

WHERE: Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music, 151 Boundary Road, Ooralea

TICKETS: www.trybooking.com/CGTYV or call 0422 264 397

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Mackay Choral Society is ready to take you on a global journey of song. Photo supplied

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Friday 4 August

Mackay Disability Expo

Friday, 9:00am

The Mackay Disability Expo will offer a crucial opportunity for people with a disability to find out about the latest products, services, technology, aids, and equipment.

Mackay Showgrounds

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

The James Morrison Quartet

Friday, 7:00pm to 9:30pm

Internationally acclaimed jazz musician and multi-instrumental virtuoso James Morrison performs live in Mackay! A Mackay Festival of Arts event - Whitsunday Anglican School Oval will transform into a major entertainment outdoor hub, with James Morrison and his renowned jazz quartet headlining on the big stage, under the stars. Supporting acts include James Morrison performing alongside the talented Whitsunday Anglican School Junior and Senior bands, and the Whitsunday Big Band.

Whitsunday Anglican School

Mackay International Film Festival

Friday, 7:00pm to Sunday

Mackay International Film Festival commences with the Opening Night Event on Friday, August 4 and a screening of ‘The Innocent’, with French-themed canapes and drinks after the film included in the $30 ticket. The festival continues Saturday with a screening of Moroccan drama ‘The Blue Caftan’ from 4:00pm and ‘Limbo’ with a live Q&A with Director Ivan Sen to follow. Sunday’s screenings include the Darren Aronofsky drama ‘The Whale’, and Spanish-Italian drama ‘Alcarras’. For tickets and more information, visit filmartsmackay.weebly.com/2023-miff.html.

BCC Cinemas Mount Pleasant

ACCA DACCA plus GUNNERS

Friday, 7:30pm

Experience the ultimate double header with this tribute to AC/DC and Guns N’ Roses.

Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

Saturday 5 August

Japanese Tea Ceremony

Saturday, 3:00pm

Experience a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony with tea expert Geeta Harmon. Geeta runs bespoke workshops with The Rabbit Studio, Brisbane. At Artspace Mackay, she will demonstrate the history and principles of Chado – the ‘Way of Tea’. Participants will be served a ‘seasonal tea sweet’ followed by a ceremonial grade Matcha Tea, learn to whisk Matcha the traditional way, and discover practical methods for preparing Matcha at home. Geeta will also guide participants through a simple meditation that may be used on a daily basis. Held during the final weekend of Artspace’s 20th Birthday Exhibition Fire and Ash: Woodfire Pottery of Arthur and Carol Rosser, this unique demonstration will inspire you to relax and bring the nourishing, calming ritual into your daily life! $30 per person, visit Eventbrite for tickets.

Artspace Mackay

Pasifika Mackay 2023

Saturday, 4:00pm

Always wanted to travel to the Pacific Islands and on? Well look no further than Pasifika Mackay! Brought to you by local and QLD pacific communities, Pasifika transports you through cultural crafts, food, song, and performing arts. This annual event allows local and regional pacific communities to work together as one team or family to celebrate pacific culture and experiences that build pride and awareness. Everyone is welcome to come and join in on the festivities!

Meadowlands Amphitheatre

Mackay Choral Society presents Come Fly With Me

Saturday, 7:30pm and Sunday, 2:00pm

Sign up for this musical Contiki tour as the Mackay Choral Society takes you on the trip of a lifetime. A musical tour of hits from around the world, both new and familiar, the program for Come Fly With Me has been in the planning for almost a year. With beautiful arrangements and a gorgeous musical blend, Come Fly With Me will have you tapping your toes and perhaps even singing along.

Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music

Sunday 6 August

Lift the Lid Walk Mackay

Sunday, 8:00am

Join Lift the Lid Walk to raise funds for mental health research. The Lift the Lid Walk event is a national initiative used to raise awareness on mental illness across Australia. It gives communities an opportunity to come together and Lift the Lid on mental illness. Everyone is welcome, including dogs, for an 8km walk & talk (it's not a race!) 8am registration for a 9am start. Cost: $32 per registration (kids 15 & under free). Participants are encouraged to bring a water bottle on the day. All proceeds will be donated to Australian Rotary Health.

Bluewater Quay

RSPCA Mackay Supporter Morning Tea

Sunday, 10:30am to 12:00pm

To thank the Mackay region for their support, RSPCA Mackay is inviting you to their Supporter Morning Tea. These events are an opportunity for like-minded animal lovers to join together for a casual morning and learn more about what the RSPCA does in the local area. The local inspector will also be in attendance. This event is free and everyone is welcome, however RSVPs are essential. Please call 07 3426 9937 or email supporterday@rspcaqld.org.au.

RSPCA Animal Care Campus

Sunday Live Music – BIG PUPS

Sunday, 2:00pm

Get ready, Mackay, because Big Pups is rolling into town! The legendary musician has embarked on his annual tour to the Cape, and this time he's bringing the Loving The Life Tour to the Seabreeze Hotel. It's an event you won't want to miss!

Seabreeze Hotel

Passport To Airlie Mackay

Sunday, 2:00pm to 7:00pm

Join Airlie Beach Festival of Music, Bricklane Brewing and The Metropolitan Hotel as they search for Australia's best live and original emerging artists and find someone from the Mackay region to head to Airlie Beach Festival of Music in November.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Monday 7 August

Homeless Week 2023

Monday to Thursday, 10:00am to 12:00pm

Visit CASA - Community Accommodation & Support Agency Inc. on Facebook to find out what’s planned for Homeless Week 2023, including Money Matters, CASA Chats, Community Day and Handy Homeless Hacks.

CASA - Community Accommodation & Support Agency Inc.

Emma Memma

Monday, 10:00am to 11:00am and 12:00pm to 1:00pm

Emma Memma is delighted to announce that she will be twirling her way to sunny Far North Queensland in her Butterfly Bus with her friends Elvin Melvin, BB Butterfly and Waffles The Wombat! Empowering the next generation through movement, creativity, inclusiveness and friendship, Emma Memma with her love of dance, sign language and music, brings visual communication to the forefront of the children’s media space and fans will get to immerse themselves in this sparkling experience on Emma Memma’s Twirly Tour. Families are encouraged to dress in Emma Memma and Elvin Melvin’s favourite colours: orange, pink and green!

BCC Cinemas Mount Pleasant

Wednesday 9 August

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. It's a space to honour the uniqueness of each individual, everyone is equal. They will be able to speak from their hearts about things that trouble, annoy, frustrate them. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 10 August

Mackay Riverside Market

Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and desert.

Bluewater Quay

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Mackay Disability Expo

James Morrison

Japanese Tea Ceremony

Pasifika Mackay

Emma Memma

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The rustic sights of the Mackay Isaac region were on display as an episode of Channel 7’s Weekender, which was filmed in the region in June, aired on Sunday, July 30.

Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Al Grundy led Weekender host Chris Parsons and his crew off the beaten track to prove there’s more to Mackay-Isaac than sugar and mining.

The episode opened at the St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend, which took place in St Lawrence, south of Mackay, from June 23 to 25.

The weekend of food, gardening, craft and music attracts crowds from across the country, and will be sure to be on everyone’s calendar after watching the episode.

The crew then headed west to what Mr Parsons described as “possibly the best caravan park I’ve ever seen”, Lotus Creek.

Hitting the road again, the crew traversed along dirt tracks, over creeks and through sorghum fields towards Dysart, taking in the breathtaking scenes of the Peak Ranges on the way.

The next stop on the road trip was the picturesque Theresa Creek Dam, followed by the historic town of Clermont.

Showcasing the town’s gold, copper, timber and sheep history, the crew paid a visit to the Clermont Historical Centre to discover the story of Clermont.

Mr Parsons farewelled the Isaac with a helicopter ride over the region before heading back to Mackay Airport, stopping at the Nebo Hotel, Mount Britton and Eungella on the way.

When asked about the trip, Mr Parsons said it was “honestly unbelievable.”

“I’m always happy to go somewhere I’ve never been before, but this region, I’ve been really intrigued to come out here,” he said.

“I can’t say how impressed I’ve been with the trip and the people we’ve met along the way.”

Rewatch the episode on demand at 7plus.com.au.

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Weekender host Chris Parsons and Clermont Historical Centre Caretaker Charlie Stranks. Photo supplied: Weekender

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Brace yourself for wormy spaghetti, bird pie and dirty beards when Roald Dahl’s nastiest couple, Mr. & Mrs. Twit head to the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) this August.

Known for their recent touring productions of Jane Eyre (2022) and Animal Farm (2021), shake & stir theatre co return with their daring adaptation of Roald Dahl’s The Twits.

Packed with Dahlicious mischief, hilarious mayhem and big belly laughs, the performance promises a visually spectacular production that will delight and disgust, in equal measure.

Co-Artistic Director of shake & stir theatre co Ross Balbuziente, expressed his excitement in directing the show.

“It’s a passion for us at Shake & Stir Theatre Co to use Dahl’s books as inspiration for reimagined theatre works for audiences of every age to enjoy.” Mr Balbuziente said.

Shake & Stir Theatre Co’s Roald Dahl productions have been seen by over 200,000 people across Australia and New Zealand and have played sold out seasons at the Sydney Opera House, Arts Centre Melbourne and QPAC.

Manager of MECC & Events, Andrew Bobeldyk encourages Mackay locals to take up the opportunity to see the award-winning theatre company in action.

“We are thrilled to welcome back Shake & Stir Theatre Co to the MECC as part of the DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“Shake & Stir is known for its exceptional stage productions, it’s an electrifying experience that one has to see to believe,” Mr Bobeldyk continued.

The MECC will host two performances of The Twits on 22 August, with the daytime performance already close to full capacity.

You’ve read the book - now experience the eye-popping stage adaptation from the wacky mind of the world’s number one storyteller. You won't believe your (glass) eyes.

What: DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season 2023 Shake & Stir Theatre Co presents ROALD DAHL’S THE TWITS Adapted for the stage by Shake & Stir Theatre Co

When: Tuesday 22 August – 12.30pm & 6pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

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Shake & Stir Theatre Co are bringing Roald Dahl's The Twits to Mackay this August

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Organisers of Mackay's premier country music festival, NQ’s Rock'n Country Festival, rallied the community's support to prevent the event's cancellation after facing a funding setback. Geoff Baguley, the festival director, expressed disappointment over the federal government's failure to fulfill their promise of increased investment in the arts, which left the event with a significant funding shortfall.

"The federal government made the decision not to support our event despite the overwhelming economic and social benefits it brings to the Mackay region," said Geoff Baguley. "We would not have gone ahead this year if we knew the government was all talk and no substance."

However, despite the challenges, the festival refused to back down and sought support from the local community.

"Some major decisions have had to be made for this year's festival as we have not received the funding as promised," Geoff Baguley acknowledged. "BUT we have received incredible support from ticket holders and local businesses, so we are happy to announce that we are able to PROCEED!"

Thanks to the overwhelming community support, NQ’s Rock'n Country Festival will go ahead, albeit in a condensed two-day format on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 August. Although not the originally planned three-day extravaganza, the festival promises to be a jam-packed weekend full of incredible music and a rock'n atmosphere that Mackay's music enthusiasts look forward to.

Highlighting the positive aspects of this year's festival, Geoff Baguley emphasized the importance of the event for various stakeholders. "This is not the outcome we had planned for 2023, but it is better than the alternative of having to cancel completely as so many people are relying on this festival, including our artists, local businesses, staff, incredible stall and food vendors, and all of our suppliers!"

NQ’s Rock'n Country headliner, Morgan Evans, is still set to kick off his Australian tour right in Mackay, further adding to the excitement and anticipation for the event.

While the festival faced challenges, the spirit of the Mackay community prevailed, making it clear that the love for country music and support for local talent runs deep. Geoff Baguley acknowledged the local community's dedication, stating, "We have received terrific business sponsorship support from the local community but Canberra-based politicians have failed us."

NQ’s Rock’n Country Sponsor Prelaunch Party

Moss on Wood

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The three-time Grammy winning ensemble, Soweto Gospel Choir will take the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre’s (MECC) stage this August with harmonies and vocals that will leave audiences mesmerised.

Formed to celebrate the unique and inspirational power of African Gospel music, Soweto Gospel Choir draws on the best talent from the many churches in and around Soweto, a township off the city of Johannesburg (South Africa).

Mackay audiences can expect songs and anthems from the Freedom movement of Nelson Mandela’s South Africa, and beautiful renditions of the protest music of the Civil Rights Movement, including works by legendary artists James Brown, Sam Cooke, Stevie Wonder, and the one-and-only Aretha Franklin.

Manager of the MECC Andrew Bobeldyk said the MECC team were thrilled to welcome the choir to Mackay.

“The Soweto Gospel Choir have incredible stage presence. These artists have performed alongside some of the biggest names in music including Stevie Wonder, Celine Dion, and Red Hot Chili Peppers,” he said.

“Their harmonies will leave you wanting more, this is African Gospel music at its very best,” he continued.

The choir is dedicated to sharing the joy of faith through music and has received critical acclaim and audience adoration for their powerful renditions of African American spirituals, gospel and folk music. The choir performed many times for the late Nelson Mandela, sadly including his state funeral in South Africa and at the subsequent commemorative service at Westminster Abbey in London.

The Soweto Gospel Choir is suited for all ages and interests, including community and school choir groups.

“I strongly encourage anyone who has also worked in or with a choir, to come along. I know you will appreciate the teamwork behind this performance,” Mr Bobeldyk commented.

Soweto Gospel Choir is a concert that will live forever in your hearts, audiences can book tickets via themecc.com.au.

What: The MECC presents Soweto Gospel Choir - Hope

When: Sunday 27 August 2023, 7.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

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The triple Grammy winners are set to stun Mackay audiences this August

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School’s Tree Day

Pioneer Valley Mountain Bike Trails, Finch Hatton

National Tree Day

Sandfly Creek Environmental Reserve, East Mackay

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Catherine McAuley College

North Eton State School

Cr Michelle Green

Colleen and Paul James

Photos supplied: Mackay Regional Council

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“Clean up Mackay Region” will be held this year over six days during August in a bid to keep our region pristine.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the events were the perfect opportunity for residents to show their community pride and help keep our region beautiful.

“This year, council will step up and show our appreciation to our volunteers for their efforts by planting five native plants, either as street trees or revegetation, for each person who participates at an event,” Mayor Williamson said.

“These events are a great opportunity for our community to be proactive and lend a hand to help keep our region looking its best by collecting harmful plastics and other rubbish before it makes its way to our beautiful beaches, protecting our local waterways and wildlife in the process,” he said.

“With the combined efforts of council and our community, this year’s events will help to make our region cleaner and greener.”

This year, council has partnered with Mackay Airport, Sarina Landcare, Conservation Volunteers Australia, Grasstree Beach Progress Association, Mackay Board Riders, Mackay Land Rover Club and CQUniversity for the 2023 clean-ups.

Locations where you can join in the clean-up include:

Friday, August 11

·        Shellgrit Creek, Bridge Road – 1pm to 3pm

Saturday, August 12

·        Illawong Drive – 9am to 11am

·        Sandfly Creek Reserve – 3pm to 5pm

Sunday, August 13

·        Riverside Drive – 9am to 11am

·        Hodges Road, Shoal Point – 9am to 11am

Saturday, August 19

·        Freshwater Point – 9am to 11am

Sunday, August 20

·        Grasstree Beach – 9am to 11am

·        North Wall Beach – 9am to 11am

Wednesday, August 23

·        Harbour Beach – 9am to 11am

Members of the community are also welcome to host their own clean-up events at sites they have noticed are worthy of a clean-up. Once registered, they will be provided with bags and gloves for their clean-up event.

Volunteers are asked to wear closed-in shoes, a hat, insect repellent and sunscreen.

Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.

Will you step up? Register today at www.cleanup.org.au/mackay or just turn up on the day.

For more information, contact council’s Resource Recovery Education Officer, Bruce Thompson on 0417 741 169.

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Mackay residents can join the biggest community clean-up to help keep our region beautiful. Clean Up Mackay Region is being held at sites around the region during August

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By Amanda Wright

Get ready to twirl into a world of enchantment and laughter as the effervescent Emma Memma presents her wondrous Twirly Tour, with three shows here in Mackay.

With a sprinkle of magic and a dash of imagination, Emma Memma invites all young adventurers and their families on an extraordinary journey filled with joy, dancing, and delightful surprises. Join in the fun as she introduces her brand-new characters and mesmerizing dance moves that will have everyone twirling with glee.

We caught up with the fabulous Emma Watkins (Emma Memma), formerly known as the Yellow Wiggle, to get an exclusive sneak peek into what promises to be a fun and inclusive show for children of all ages.

Emma's transition from the Yellow Wiggle to a different captivating children's entertainer has been nothing short of delightful.

"Emma Memma allows me to expand upon new areas of visual communication to help achieve greater accessibility for all children," Emma shares with a twinkle in her eye. With a passion for inclusivity, she aims to create a show that is not only fun but also engaging and attainable for everyone.

One of the highlights of the Twirly Tour is the incorporation of Auslan into the performances.

"Movement is everyone's first form of communication, so we aim to build on this foundation to make our content more fun, engaging, and inclusive," Emma explains. Auslan, Australian Sign Language, plays a significant role in making the show accessible to all children. Emma and her team use Auslan throughout the entire performance, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the magic with movement.

So, what can young audiences and their families expect from the Twirly Tour?

"Audiences can expect to see everything they know and love about Emma, but now with all new characters and catchy dance actions to try for adults and children alike," Emma reveals with excitement.

The Twirly Tour will take place at BCC Cinemas, adding an extra touch of grandeur to the show. With the use of animations projected on the enormous movie screen, young adventurers will be transported to a world of magic and wonder.

"The BCC Cinema's in-house movie projector is by far the largest screen we've ever used, and we are very excited about it!" Emma exclaims.

Emma's commitment to inclusivity extends to ticket sales as well.

"Our whole show is accessible in Auslan and English, and Elvin, myself, and our dancers use Auslan throughout the entire performance," Emma shares.

For audience members who require interpretation, special Auslan tickets are available, ensuring that every child can fully experience the magic of the Twirly Tour. Additionally, photos and videos during the show are always welcome, and lucky fans may even get a snap with Emma and her friend Elvin!

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Emma Memma's shows is their appeal to all ages.

"We often see babies right through to 20-somethings and grandparents joining in the fun," Emma reveals.

The performances are gentle, calming, and perfect for little ones or audience members who may be sensitive to loud noises or strong lighting. No matter the age, everyone is invited to twirl into a world of pure imagination.

Having previously visited Mackay, Emma Memma holds fond memories of the warm reception she received. "Mackay is always so lovely and welcoming," she said.

"We can't wait for our friends in Mackay to meet BB Butterfly, Waffles the Wombat, and Elvin Melvin at our first-ever Emma Memma shows in Mackay, see you there!"

What: Emma Memma’s Twirly Tour

When: Monday August 7, 10am, 12pm, 2:30pm

Where: BCC Cinemas Mt Pleasant

Tickets: livenation.com.au/show/1431006/emma-memma/mackay

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Emma Memma and Elvin Melvin will be entertaining children in Mackay this Monday during the Twirly Tour. Photo credit: Jared Lyons

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This evening, thousands of people will gather on grassy banks, smooth rocks and sandy outcrops to watch the Friday Night Fireworks erupt into vibrant pops of colour over the bay on Airlie Beach Foreshore.

Celebrating the official beginning of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, the fireworks are a crowd-favourite and a symbol of exciting times ahead – with an action-packed event calendar ready to impress over the whole weekend.

Sponsored by the Whitsunday Regional Council, the fireworks are set-off from across the bay, blasting up into the night’s sky and visible from many local vantage points.

Join the party on a rooftop bar, gather the kids on a picnic blanket or walk to a grassy knoll at the edge of the lagoon – wherever you are, feel connected and liberated by the fireworks that are there for everyone and can be seen by everyone.

“Watching the fireworks is definitely one of my favourite parts of the whole event,” said Great Barrier Reef Festival President, Margie Murphy.

“It is the moment when all the plans and preparations are in place and everyone gathers together, excited for a fabulous weekend ahead!”

WHAT: Friday Night Fireworks

WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

WHEN: Friday, August 4

TIME: 8pm

Maximise Your Friday Night!

• Come down early to watch the Lantern Parade from 6pm

• Make sure you check out the Immerse Art Installation

• The kids will love the fun fair rides and side show alley

• Bring your picnic blanket for the open-air movie – Finding Nemo

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Embracing the festival-themes of community, creativity and raising awareness for the environment, the Friday evening Night Markets are a treasure trove of home-made wares, recyclable arts, and cottage industry delights.

A part of the Great Barrier Reef Festival since 2018, the Night Markets were quick to become a popular event, attracting over 60 stall holders and hundreds of browsing attendees.

Shrouded by a starry night sky, the markets are lit-up like a beacon, drawing festival-goers from along the Foreshore into the bustling arms of Eat Street and the dozens of market stalls.

Artist, Margaret Burgess, has been a stall holder since its inception and says that the addition of the markets has drawn bigger crowds to the festival year by year.

“It’s a great atmosphere at the markets,” she said.

“Plus, it gives people the opportunity to sell their wares, it’s wonderful to see so many hand-made products for sale that are also environmentally friendly.”

From hemp fabric clothes and linen by Tracey Robb to cow bone carvings by Proserpine local, Mel Burns, and of course Margaret’s reimagined China and sea glass jewellery, there is plenty to see and explore at the markets.

Discover unique locally made pottery, hand-made fragrant candles and soaps, gemstones, and original marine memorabilia.

There will also be Face painting for the children, Great Barrier Marine Festival merchandise for sale plus LED light fun products to get the party started.

WHAT: Night Markets

WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

WHEN: Friday, August 4 from 5pm

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DON’T MISS!

The Nature Celebration Area – Discover 12 different nature stalls promoting reef conservation and raising awareness for the environment

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Traffic will be halted on the bustling main street of Airlie Beach this Saturday and the steady flow of vehicles will be replaced by a plethora of colourful community events for the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Saturday Street Fun.

A hive of activity for festival goers to enjoy, the day will kick-off with Fraser Ford Revvin’ the Reef Car Show.

Car enthusiasts from all over the region have been busy polishing their ‘pride and joy’, ready to display amongst a sea of other cars, bikes, and trucks.

Beautiful Pin-Up Girls will wander through the crowd with Rock and Roll music completing the nostalgic ambiance of yesteryear.

Continuing with the leisurely yet dynamic pace, there will be continuous activities throughout the day.

Roving Street Performers will surprise and amaze, Wildlife Whitsunday will bring along native wildlife and there will be live music throughout the day.

Attendees are welcome to head to the nearby Art Expo and cast their vote for the People’s Choice award, or cruise down to the Airlie Beach Hotel for a lazy afternoon listening to some Classic Rock Legends.

Hungry? Head down to the Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street where you’ll find a hot bed of food vans selling a range of delicious treats.

Then, at 4pm the main street transforms into a racetrack for the Medibank Magic Mile, where children, adults, and everyone in between are invited to participate.

Enjoy the cheers from onlookers as you dash by at top speed and challenge yourself in this exciting event.

The day finishes with the iconic Rotary Street Parade, a colourful and worthy finale to an action-packed event.

WHAT: Saturday Street Fun

WHERE: Airlie Beach Main Street

WHEN: Saturday, August 5 – all day!

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Did You Know?

You can submit photos from the day for a chance to be published in this newspaper. Simply scan this QR code to take part.

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