Friday 8 September

Central Queensland Blokart Cape Hillsborough Regatta

Friday to Sunday

Watch blokarts gracefully sail down the beach at great speed at Cape Hillsborough for this popular regatta. This is the 15th time this annual event has been held and has become the second-largest blokarting competition in Australia. Free to watch, a sausage sizzle and drinks will be for sale on the beach.

Cape Hillsborough Beach

Wintermoon Springfest

Friday to Sunday

Rejoice in the joy of Spring with music, dance, yoga, meditation, camping , family time and workshops at the stunning Cameron’s Pocket.

Cameron’s Pocket

Friday Jazz @ The Con

Friday, 6:00pm

CQCM Music Staff present Friday Jazz @ the Con featuring Dr David Reaston (guitar), Dr Peter McKenzie (saxophone), Jason Smyth-Tomkins (drums). The September concert will feature vocalist, CQU alumni and staff member, Hayley Kennedy.

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

Saturday 9 September

Mackay Livin’ The Dream Expo

Saturday and Sunday

Living' The Dream Expo brings you everything you ever dreamt of owning. Your dream caravan/campervan, car, boat, bike, 4WD, ATV, trailer. Your dream spa, pool, shed. Even your dream BBQ and outdoor furniture.

Mackay Showgrounds

Meet the Artist – Linda Danvers

Saturday, 9:00am to 10:30am

Grab a cuppa and meet Linda Danvers, artist behind the latest exhibition 'Sticks & Stones and Other Inspirations' displayed in the Lagoons Gallery within the Botanic Gardens Cafe.

Linda will explain the unique way in which she created the different artworks displayed and the inspirations behind them. All artworks are for sale, all sale enquiries to be directed to the artist.

Botanic Gardens Café

Gospel Garden Party

Saturday, 2:00pm

This spring celebration promises to be a wonderful celebration of classic Gospel and Gardening glory. The members of the Mackay Anglican Community have been growing plants from their own gardens as a special project to be on display and for sale at the

event. With completely free entry, there will be an afternoon tea available. Attendees can rest and revive in the glory of our North Queensland Spring, while listening to a variety of classic Gospel entertainment from a variety of local performers from Children to Golden oldies who know those tunes so well. Some pure and simple Gospel tunes from Solo performers, duos and trios. All are invited to join. Giant checkers will be on the lawn, and blessings are available in the church. For more information, please contact either Kristi at

admin@mackayanglicans.org.au or Niki at nikipower21@gmail.com or 0411732304.

The gardens to the side of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Gordon Street, Mackay

ACO Collective | Ecstatic Dances

Saturday, 7:30pm

ACO Collective combines Australia’s most talented emerging string players with the professional musicians of the Australian Chamber Orchestra to create a high energy string orchestra.

MECC

Sunday 10 September

Australia A vs New Zealand A

Sunday, 9:30am to 5:00pm

Cricket Australia has selected the Great Barrier Reef Arena to host an exciting cricket series between Australia A and New Zealand A men's teams, finishing with a thrilling One Day game on Sunday, with free entry.

Great Barrier Reef Arena

Jazz in the Park

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Staff and students from the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music Bachelor of Music course present Jazz in the Park. This event will feature a special guest, renowned vocalist Hayley Kennedy. Relax in the beautiful surrounds of Queens Park and listen to some of Mackay’s finest up-and-coming musicians studying at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music. Free event. Bring a picnic. BYO chairs.

Queens Park

Sunday Live Music – The Feels

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.

Seabreeze Hotel

2023 Aus Poetry Slam Central Queensland Heat

Sunday, 5:00pm to 7:30pm

Think what you've got what it takes to become Australia's next Poetry Slam champion? All you need is an original poem and two minutes on the mic. Two poets chosen by the audience will go on to the Queensland state finals with the chance for a shot at the nationals. Both performers and spectators need a ticket, so grab yours today! Presented by Queensland Poetry Festival.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Light up the Lake

Sunday, 6:00pm to 8:00pm

Every year MAD Cow Coffee, Hope & Healing ‘Light up the Lake’ with lanterns to remember those we have lost to suicide in our community, show our support to those who’s stories continue and honour the survivors. Lanterns are free to anyone attending and are decorated on the night or collected prior and decorated privately with family or friends as a tribute to a loved one. Special guest appearances and live music by Hannah Roberts Music and the Lake cafe will be open. This FREE MAD Cow Coffee, Hope and Healing community event is proudly sponsored by Wake House Australia, Get It Done Training and Hannah Roberts Music.

Wake House Australia

Tuesday 12 September

BMA Kidspace

Tuesday, 10:00am

BMA Kidspace, Artspace Mackay’s free and ever popular toddler’s program, gives children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of cooperative learning. The program includes free artist-run craft activities in two sessions, Session 1: Anytime from 10 to 11:30am; Session 2: Anytime from 12:15 to 2pm with live musical entertainment 11:30am to 12:15pm. Bring your children along for a fun day of art-making, singing and dancing.

Artspace Mackay

Wednesday 13 September

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 14 September

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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One of the changes I’ve noticed in the way of the world is the growing trend for people to see things as either black or white, people as either good or bad. There’s no acceptance or awareness of nuance … you’re either “with us or agin’ us”.

It’s becoming a world without grey areas and some of the big issues of our time highlight what I mean.

Take climate change. If you do not totally embrace Australia’s net zero philosophy and agree 100 per cent with the government’s approach irrespective of any economic and social damage it may cause then you are a “climate change denier”.

You might support reducing emissions but believe energy security and affordability is a vital component of the transition. You might argue that we need to maintain the reliability of our network until renewables can effectively do the job … but that makes you a climate change denier because you are not with the program 100 per cent of the way.

The Voice to Parliament and Executive Government is another hot one.

The way the narrative is being presented, if you do not support the yes vote you are racist. You are either racist and voting no or not racist and voting yes.

In this new world there are only good guys and bad guys. You can’t possibly want indigenous people to be recognised and their lot to be improved and, yet, vote no to the voice because you are concerned about changing the constitution and the fact you do not understand how the voice is going to operate as a bureaucratic entity.

You might want more information, more certainty about how it will work, a better explanation of the legal and bureaucratic impact but in this world of good guys and bad guys you are racist and that’s why you’re voting no.

What does this adversarial world that lacks grey areas mean for real estate?

A listing agent like me works for the seller. The seller pays my commission and a central part of my legal and ethical obligations is that I do everything I can to get the best possible price for the seller.

Does that mean I don’t care about buyers? Do I think the buyer is an adversary, someone who has to be defeated for the sale to be considered successful? No, that would be ridiculous.

The real world is not one of adversarial conflict and extremes. The fact that I work for the seller does not mean I work against the buyer.

My first duty is absolutely to the sellers but to successfully negotiate a contract for them I need to keep the deal together … that means I need to understand and communicate the buyer’s concerns and reservations.

I need to be able to move between the buyer and seller so that the seller understands what is going on, what the obstructions might be to getting a deal done.

In a world that tries to create a simplified divide of friends/enemies, good guys/bad guys, republicans/monarchist, environmentalists/climate deniers, progressives/right-wing extremists, there is room for an agent to work all-in for a seller while creating a friendly, informative, respectful and engaging environment for the buyer.

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It’s the small things in life that we take for granted, until they’re lost. Like having access to transport, clothes on our back, the taste of clean drinking water and the one that most recently I realised was a high priority of mine, having a shower in your own home.

Now I’m not going to pretend like this isn’t a good thing, my house is getting a bathroom renovation at the moment. However, it has made me understand the privilege it is to have a shower first thing in the morning to wake me up and showering as part of my night-time wind down ritual.

I’ll be the first to admit I’m not much of a camper, my idea of slumming it is either in a caravan or a large tent with at least access to power and a toilet block close by. I’m not one to take off for the weekend on a camp just for the fun of it, but this past week I have been doing ‘camping adjacent’ by showing wherever I can. Between work and my family’s farm, it seems that this will be the next month of my life – who knew that a full bathroom makeover takes this long!!

The unfortunate consequence for the people around me as part of this adjustment I’m having to make is that I, who is always late to everything, am only going to be later to everything (SORRY BOSS). So please, for me, when you jump in the shower this morning/evening in your own bathroom in your own home - soak up how lucky you are for an extra minute.

All jokes aside there are around 122,500 homeless people in our country that don’t have access to safe accommodation let alone a shower, and a huge number in our region alone - estimated to be more than 1,200 - so don’t take for granted the access we have to life’s spoils. That’s escalated substantially since the estimated 700 homeless from the 2016 census. If you or someone you know is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, there are some great organisations in our region to reach out to, such as the Mackay Women’s Centre, Vinnies Homeless Hostel, the Salvo’s, CASA, Chances Café, Orange Sky and of course Mackay's Sleep Bus.

Kaley

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A new second-hand clothing market is coming to Mackay this month aimed at promoting sustainability, affordability, and community engagement.

Healthy, Clean and Green is pleased to present the first Sweet Repeats, a market event that will have clothes for men, women and children.

By participating in the Sweet Repeats event, stall holders and shoppers will be actively helping the environment and supporting members of the Mackay community.

Selling and purchasing second hand clothing reduces textile waste and minimizes our carbon footprint.

By actively extending the lifecycle of clothing, we can collectively make a significant impact on the fast fashion industry which in turn will have a positive effect on the environment.

Customers can discover unique, stylish pieces that won’t break the bank, allowing them to express their individuality without compromising on their budget and stallholders can turn preloved wardrobe items that they no longer wear into cash, which for some could help to ease financial pressures.

Healthy Clean and Green advocates making better choices for the environment and as such there will be a big focus on making Sweet Repeats a low-waste event.

They are encouraging customers and stallholders to bring along their own water bottles, coffee cups and shopping bags.

MAD Cow Coffee will be in attendance on the day and will noy be providing single use takeaway cups, instead offering a ‘mug library’ that people can utilise if they forget to BYO.

For further information please contact Healthy, Clean and Green Owner/Manager Wendy Steindl at wendy@healthycleanandgreen.com.au or visit www.healthycleanandgreen.com.au.

WHAT: Sweet Repeats Second-Hand Clothing Market

WHEN: Sunday, September 17

WHERE: CQ Uni City Campus, Sydney Street, Mackay

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Healthy, Clean and Green Owner/Manager Wendy Steindl

Founded in 1964, the National Boys Choir of Australia has established itself as one of Australia’s finest treble choirs.

This month, the choir is delighted to be performing in St Paul’s Church in Mackay as part of its 2023 North Queensland Tour, joined by Artistic Director Andrew Bainbridge and Accompanist Jane Matheson.

The program will include classical, folk and popular songs, including ‘For the Beauty of the Earth’ by choir patron John Rutter, and works by Australian composers Colin Brumby, Ruth McCall, Dan Walker, Nicholas Buc, Todd McNeal and Lyn Williams.

The choir is made up of approximately 200 boys aged between seven and 15, all commencing with a two-year training period before moving into the Performing Choir.

Choristers are trained in the traditional bel canto style, their repertoire including music ranging from early motets through to contemporary commissioned works and fully staged children’s operas, as well as musical comedy, art songs and folk songs from around the world.

The choir is often called on to sing with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Opera Australia and Victorian Opera, their busy schedule including regular television, recording and major event appearances such as the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games, Grand Prix, Bledisloe Cup and Carols by Candlelight at the Myer Music Bowl since 1988.  

The National Boys Choir of Australia will be joined in Mackay by the Mackay Choral Society, directed by Nicole Thomson.

WHAT: The National Boys Choir of Australia

WHEN: Wednesday, September 20 from 6:00pm

WHERE: St Paul’s Uniting Church, 21 MacAlister Street, Mackay

TICKETS: Trybooking

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Written and released in 1969, Fortunate Son, has become one of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most famous anthems, epitomising the sound, spirit and attitude of late 60’s Rock n Roll.

Following successful tours throughout Victoria and South-East Qld in 2022, The Creedence Boys are keeping this classic and iconic music alive for everyone to reminisce and enjoy. The band can’t wait to gear up and hit the road for their North Qld fans who keep coming back to appreciate this high energy show.

World-class lead singer, Andre Lemberg, is the embodiment of brilliant songwriter, guitarist and singer, John Fogerty - legendary front-man of Creedence Clearwater Revival. He gives-his-all, delivering that powerful and emotive Fogerty voice we all love.

He is joined onstage by an all-star band of musicians who regularly play with Angry Anderson, Mark Gable of the Choirboys and have shared stages with Uriah Heep, The Offspring, Jimmy Barnes, The Angels and more. This combination is the very driving force of why this is arguably the greatest John Fogerty Tribute in the world.

As a bonus, audiences enjoy some Texas boogie to open the show, with Oz ZZ TOP ripping through a fun set of greatest hits including Sharp Dressed Man + Tush + La Grange + Gimme All Your Lovin and more!

Experience classic Rock n Roll at its best and sing along to the greatest hits of both CCR and Fogerty’s solo careers:

Bad Moon Rising + Fortunate Son + Green River + Proud Mary + Suzie Q + Run Through The Jungle + Born on the Bayou + Centerfield and many more.

What: Creedence – The John Fogerty Show

When: Friday 6 October Mackay, Saturday 7 October Bowen

Where: Seabreeze Hotel Mackay, Grand View Hotel Bowen

Tickets: Mackay: https://bit.ly/3rKPLX4 Bowen: https://bit.ly/3Dyqx0t

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Oktoberfest is coming to Mackay this October long weekend thanks to Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club.

Get ready to experience authentic German music, food, beer and activities for the kids at this family-friendly event – what better way to spend your long weekend?

Townsville’s Frankfurter Oompah Band will be coming down to provide authentic German entertainment and there will be a selection of Gotzinger German sausages and pretzels for sale along with other treats.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay Regional Council was pleased to support this great fundraiser through the Invest Mackay Events and Conferences Attraction Program.

“The program aims to attract visitors, generate positive economic results and foster community pride,” Mr Williamson said.

“This event is a perfect example of a community event that takes advantage of our beautiful locales and brings everyone together in the great outdoors for a day of fun.”

Oktoberfest will take place on Sunday, October 1 from 12pm to 5:30pm.

Tickets can be purchased for $20 adult and $5 child.

The adult tickets include admittance to the event and a souvenir mug to fill with German-style beer.

Kids tickets include face painting, a giant slide and rock climbing wall for the kids.

This event is one of the largest fundraisers for the Eimeo SLSC and helps to ensure lifesavers are able to patrol our beaches and provide junior activities.

If you are interested in volunteering at Oktoberfest please visit www.eimeoslsc.com.au/oktoberfest.

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If you are an orchid lover, don’t miss Mackay’s Orchid Extravaganza at Queens Park next Saturday.

The annual event will see hundreds of orchids on display at the Ken Burgess Orchid House on Saturday, September 16, from 8am to 3pm. There will also be orchid and plant sales, demonstrations and raffles.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the event would be free for the community to attend.

“Council is committed to improving the liveability of our region,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Providing more entertainment and events is crucial to achieving this goal,” he said.

“Events like this appeal to a wide range of people, from the most experienced gardeners to those who just want a chance to admire the exquisite orchids on display.

“Orchid experts will be available on the day to provide helpful tips and tricks for growing orchids in our climate and share their personal experiences.

“If you’ve ever wanted to incorporate orchids into your garden, the Orchid Extravaganza is the perfect opportunity to discover what is available and to find out what would best suit your garden and lifestyle.”

Food stalls will also be available for those who want to grab a bite to eat or a hot/cold drink at the event.

For more information visit the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens website.

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Outrageous Comedic Duo Visits Airlie Beach

Prepare to be outrageously entertained, unprecedentedly overcome with laughter, and struggling to stay in your seat, with these hilarious Australian women Ellen Briggs and Mandy Nolan performing their absolutely cracker comedy show, Women Like Us at the Airlie Beach Hotel this September.

For one night only, this comedic duo will command the stage, with fierce, sharp, and brutally honest stand up comedy.

Only occasionally self-depreciating, but 100 per cent irreverent, Ellen and Mandy will share anything and everything, from farting at yoga, being menopausal and dealing with teenage angst, and tight-lipped sales assistants.

This brand of humour is touching honest and intimately hilarious, fuelled with the warmth of comedians who understand the true nuance of Australian comedy, perfectly in tune with classic regional audience.

Growing up in Mullumbimby, a small town in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, Ellen and Mandy know the best one liners to get any small-town rolling.

With this perfect recipe, Airlie Beach will be in stitches this September.

And don’t miss Mandy’s crack ups, from her stint running for MP, as a Greens candidate for Richmond at the Federal election before she came close to winning, and realising that politics was not for her.

Selling out over 250 shows across Australia, and breaching the barriers of the Melbourne Comedy Festivals, these ladies will leave no comedic rock unturned, exploring every aspect of being the classic Aussie woman and Aussie mum.

Stemming from an idea for a novel, to the written word, to an outrageously hilarious podcast, and now the perfectly sixed travelling tour show, these women know how to make an audience laugh, no matter the medium.

Housework, turning 50, saying goodbye to the kids and becoming empty nesters, aging parents, and sex while drunk are just some of the standard topics of discussion that are sure to get the crowd falling out of their seats.

There is no topic these women won’t discus with an open and eager audience, so be sure to get involved with the show.

Do yourself a favour this September and get yourself a ticket for this absolute cracker of a show, set to bring Airlie Beach into a new era of witty and intelligent comedy shows that are sure to knock you sideways.

WHAT: Women Like Us

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Wednesday September 20, from 7pm

TICKETS: whitsundaytickets.com.au

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With small town roots, the comedic duo Ellen and Mandy have the perfect recipe to get Airlie Beach in stitches.

No juicy topic is off limits to these ladies

Be prepared to be laughing nonstop at ‘Women Like Us’ this September

Bringing only the best, ‘Women Like Us’ is not the show to miss. Photos supplied

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The Whitsunday Old Iron Restorer’s Club are holding their 2023 Car, 4WD and Motorcycle Show and Swap Meet, a perfect place for all car and motorbike lovers to showcase their trophy engines.

With markets, displays and a small eat street, the day is fun for the whole family.

Don’t miss the Ugly Ute Section, as well as the Stationary Engine Display, and get your picture taken with the amazing vehicles on display.

With all proceeds being donated to local charities, this is not an event to miss.

WHAT: Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club Car Show and Swap Meet

WHERE: Proserpine Show Grounds

WHEN: Saturday, September 23, from 9am

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Head to the Whitsunday Old Iron Restorer’s Car Show and Swap Meet. Photo supplied

Since 1873 St Mary’s Catholic School in Bowen has been delivering quality education to the children of Bowen.

And on their 150th birthday, St Mary’s is welcoming any and all members of the community to celebrate the milestone.

Along with an official welcome, cake cutting and blessing with Bishop Tim, the school will be offering school tours with entertainment by current and past students, and a celebration mass.

The celebrations will conclude with a meet and greet evening at Grand View Hotel.

For more information, contact St Mary’s Catholic School on 07 4786 1203.

WHAT: St Mary’s Catholic School 150th Celebrations

WHERE: St Mary’s Catholic School, 39 Poole Street, Bowen

WHEN: Saturday September 9, from 2pm

TICKETS: smbtsv.catholic.edu.au

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With just a few tickets remaining to the iconic White on Whitehaven long table lunch, locals are invited to book now for a spectacular day out, cruising the azure waters, dining on sparkling silica sand, and drinking French Champagne.

While many guests have travelled from around Australia to attend this exciting event, local residents can experience it right here at their doorstep.

A culinary delight set in a foodie’s paradise, White on Whitehaven is hosted by Fish D’vine, a local restaurant which specialises in the freshest local seafood.

From freshly shucked oysters and Atlantic salmon sashimi greeting guests as they disembark, to tiger prawns, Morton Bay Bugs and other delicacies showcased in their signature buffet.

The hot buffet includes BBQ charred sous vide Black Angus eye fillet, chicken roulade garnished and local Barramundi fillet – for a sumptuous selection of treats guaranteed to make mouths water.

And while the food is divine, so is the ambience.

Set to the dramatic backdrop of Whitehaven Beach, the row of elegant white tables that comprise the long table lunch, create an awesome site.

Roving musicians will entertain, guests can mingle at their leisure as wait staff cater to your every whim, keeping everyone topped up with a range of ice—cold beverages from Laurenti Champagne to Grainshaker and Diablo cocktails and international beers.

Enjoy a relaxing cruise through the Whitsunday Islands and your experience awaits, a table for plenty on one of the best beaches in the world.

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Airlie Beach Festival of Music Drops Daily Lineup

Airlie Beach Festival of Music is gearing up for another massive year, with the official main stage schedule released this week.

In just under two months, 50 talented bands and solo artists will descend upon the town for one wild weekend of musical mayhem spread out over 14 venues.

Every day, festival goers can wander from each venue, soaking up the eclectic vibes or they can simply head to the main stage, which is located in the large top tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club.

Boasting stunning views across the Coral Sea, the mainstage is a signature setting for a festival that promises good music, good vibes, and a holiday atmosphere.

While music plays across all venues during the day, the main stage beckons Friday and Saturday nights and throughout Sunday afternoon, with headlining acts attracting audiences from far and wide.

During the festival, the whole town is pumping with music floating out over the streets and a party atmosphere everywhere you look.

With single tickets and mammoth three day passes available, there is an option for everyone and every budget.

However, don’t forget the spectacular rockstar pass with the VIP ticket, which includes entry into the VIP bar with a daily six-hour food and alcohol package, private bathroom, and seating overlooking both the stage and the ocean.

On top of the legendary main stage artists, spread out across the 14 local venues are some of the best touring acts from around the country, including Salt and Steel and Matty Rogers as well as local talent Flying Double Front Kick.

Passport to Airlie 2022 winners Perry Street Park will also be returning, bringing with them newfound success and musical sound.

WHAT: Airlie Beach Festival of Music

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club Greens plus 14 Venues Across Airlie Beach

WHEN: Thursday November 9 till Sunday November 12

TICKETS: airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

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USE CODE LOCALVIP AND GO IN THE DRAW TO WIN AN UPGRADE

FROM A GENERAL ADMISSION TICKET TO A VIP TICKET!

Winner will be picked from the first 100 to use this code, so get in quick!!!

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Open your books, put pen to paper and write down the date of the newly announced Whitsunday Writers Festival which is due to take place from September 6-8 next year.

Following an eight-year hiatus, the festival is making a triumphant return to the region and the long-awaited event promises to be a celebration of words, writers, and readers, rekindling the literary flame in the heart of Queensland.

Packed with a diverse range of engaging events, the festival promises to be a hot bed of inspiration, bridging the gap between writers and readers, fostering a sense of camaraderie among literary enthusiasts.

Festival Chair, Karen Jacobsen said she is thrilled to see the festival outline come together so everyone can start getting excited about the event.

"It is such an exciting time for arts in the Whitsundays,” she said.

“All of us involved in bringing the writers festival back in 2024 are overjoyed to be announcing the dates, for an event that will showcase our region.

“We expect it to delight readers and locals and the countdown is on!"

Commencing with an enchanting supper club-styled event entitled "A Love Letter to Queensland”, the Thursday night will set the tone for what’s to come, enthralling and enlivening the audience with spirited tales and heartfelt memories.

Featuring passionate Queenslanders, this event will give attendees a unique opportunity to connect with the soul of Queensland.

Another introduction to the newly revitalised festival itinerary is the inaugural Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, set to be a highlight of the weekend.

Launching in February 2024, these awards will culminate in a glamorous Festival event on the Saturday evening.

With various categories including poetry, short stories by adults and under 18-year-olds, and published book covers, the awards aim to recognise and celebrate the diverse talents within the literary world.

In honour of the Festival's founder, Gloria Burley, a distinguished award will be presented for the best unpublished manuscript. The Gloria Burley award comes with a prize of $2,000, acknowledging Gloria's remarkable contribution to bringing the Festival to the Whitsundays and commemorating her legacy.

Another highlight of the event is the Kids Day Out on Sunday morning, which aims to instil the love of reading and writing in the young hearts of our community.

Workshops on writing for children and young adults will also be available, nurturing the next generation of talent.

Festival Co-convenor, Richard Evans, says the festival program has been crafted to include a rich tapestry of writing genres.

“From Karaoke Poetry to a Big Book Club High Tea featuring engaging discussions with authors, a local authors' long lunch to thought-provoking panels and workshops – there's something for every literary enthusiast!” he said.

“Let's come together and celebrate the magic of words, the art of writing, and the joy of reading.

“Join us in making history once again at the Whitsundays Writers Festival.”

WHAT: Whitsunday Writers Festival 2024

WHEN: September 6-8, 2024

WHERE: Venues across the Whitsundays

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READ, GROW, INSPIRE
Picnic In The Gardens, Book Week 2023

From August 19th to 25th, Children's Book Week 2023 cast its spell on young book enthusiasts and eager learners across the nation. Orchestrated by the Children's Book Council of Australia, this annual event unfurled under the theme "Read, Grow, Inspire," placing the spotlight on the profound impact that books wield in shaping the minds of the youth.

Throughout the designated week, schools, libraries, and families actively participated in a myriad of engaging activities and creative displays that championed the sheer delight of reading. In the heart of Mackay, the Mackay Regional Council Libraries orchestrated an enchanting "Picnic in the Gardens" event, transforming the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens into a vibrant canvas of imagination. Amongst the fluttering butterflies, fearless superheroes, and regal princesses, families came together to bask in the magic of storytelling.

With each turned page, the journey of discovery and inspiration carries on, ensuring that the love for books remains an enduring legacy.

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Mackay Regional Council Libraries team at Picnic in the Gardens. L-R: Jessie Nixon, Lotte Sjoegren, Laura Ellul, Claire Grandcourt, Fiona Thackray and Kirsty Wilson. Photo credit: Tanya Youman, Mackay Regional Council