Swapping hard hats for dancing shoes, Jason Mordey will vie for the winning position on stage at the upcoming Dancing With Heart competition. As Managing Director of Anything Environmental, Jason leads a locally owned family business focused on giving back to the community while creating opportunities for people to recycle materials that would otherwise end up in landfill. “We are a business that is all about supporting and giving back to our local community where we can, especially through creating opportunities for the general public to recycle materials and potentially make some money doing it, as well as helping the environment,” he says. Jason began his career as a diesel mechanic before building one of the region’s largest earthmoving and demolition operations. When the Containers for Change program launched, he seized the opportunity to bring it to Mackay. “I hope people remember me for helping create systems that make a real difference for the community and the environment,” he shares. Now turning his focus to the dance floor, Jason promises plenty of energy. “I don’t want to give too much away, but my dance is very full-on from start to finish and exhausting. I love the way it involves the audience with a high-energy performance, with fun and comedy thrown in,” he says. The most challenging part? I could lie and say the backflips, lol. What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work? My father was in the hospital for nearly two years. During that time, I saw first-hand how the Hospital Foundation do the little things to help people staying in hospital, especially long-term patients like my father. They fill in the gaps that are otherwise missed.
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Dirk Neugebauer is no stranger to stepping up for the community, but stepping onto a dance floor, complete with choreography and precise timing, is an entirely new arena. As Managing Director of Jayden Enterprises Pty Ltd, Dirk leads a well-known and established Mackay business that has consistently backed local charities, schools and events. “Jayden Enterprises is a well-known and established Mackay business that has always supported local charities, schools and events in which I get actively involved,” he says. Over the past three years, he has also poured his energy into Variety – the Children’s Charity Queensland Variety Bash, running two major fundraisers annually and promoting them across TV and radio. “My passion in supporting charities such as My Hospital Foundation, Hospital Auxiliary, Chances House and Variety comes from my experience with my own mental health challenges and how important it is to me to help those that need it the most,” he shares. “I would like to be remembered as someone who cares about the community through sharing prosperity.” Now, as a Dancing With Heart contestant, Dirk admits rehearsals have tested him. “It has been a bit of a struggle even though I love dancing… this has challenged me to learn a routine,” he says. “Learning the new moves, practicing them and then getting them right is the most enjoyable.” What have you found the most challenging so far? Getting the timing right and not jumping into my own routine. What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work? The foundation is local, directing funds to those who need it most while supporting healthcare workers that work tirelessly with essential equipment and resources.
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Bright, outgoing and always up for a laugh, Chelsea Byrne is a vibrant force in Mackay’s community scene, and chances are, you’ve seen her in action. As a Triple M Roadie, Account Coordinator, Brand Experience Specialist, and Executive Assistant, Chelsea is at the heart of connecting the station to the community. From local businesses to sporting clubs and community events, she thrives on face-to-face interaction and sharing the stories that make the region unique. “You’ll usually find me out and about in the community — visiting local businesses, events, sporting clubs, and bringing the station to the streets. I love being face-to-face with locals, having a chat, sharing a laugh, and helping promote what’s happening around our region,” she said. “It’s such a social job and I’m lucky to meet so many amazing people through it.” While she’s confident on the mic, Chelsea’s dance routine has been full of surprises. “Most people don’t know I’m probably the clumsiest dancer in the group. I can trip over nothing and still miss a count — it’s honestly impressive… But I dance with my whole heart, even if my feet don’t always cooperate. I’d love to be remembered as the girl who gave it her all, laughed at herself, and proved you don’t have to be perfect to light up the stage,” Chelsea enthuised. “I’ve really loved the upbeat sections with sharp, strong moves because you can just go full out and feel the music. That’s when I forget about being clumsy and just have fun with it.” The most challenging part? Remembering the choreography while also making it look confident and natural What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work? Knowing the impact stays right here in our local hospitals and helps people in our own community makes it incredibly meaningful, especially because healthcare touches everyone at some point in their lives.
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Film lovers are invited to a special screening of award-winning French drama The Story of Souleymane at CQUniversity’s Cook Theatre next month, presented by Film & Arts Mackay Inc.. Winner of the Jury Prize, Best Actor and the FIPRESCI International Critics’ Prize in the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival, as well as Best Actor and Best Sound at the European Film Awards, the 93-minute drama has become one of France’s most talked-about recent releases. Written and directed by Boris Lojkine, the film follows Souleymane, a young food delivery cyclist navigating the frenetic streets of Paris while awaiting the outcome of his asylum application. Racing against the clock to meet delivery demands, he must also prepare for a life-changing residency interview that will determine his future. The lead performance by newcomer Abou Sangaré has been widely praised, adding emotional weight to this tense and compassionate portrait of life in the gig economy. Described as a gripping social-realist thriller, the film has drawn comparisons to classic European cinema while resonating strongly with contemporary audiences. It contains coarse language and is rated M. The evening will also include the Film & Arts Mackay Annual General Meeting at 7.10pm sharp, prior to the screening. Members are encouraged to attend to help form a quorum and nominate office bearers for the year ahead. Doors open at 6.45pm for a 7.30pm start at CQUniversity Mackay, Ooralea Campus. Guests are invited to stay for snacks and wine after the screening. Tickets and 2026 memberships are available online at www.trybooking.com/DIZNV.
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The image of the man, woman and baby in the darkened stable has a powerful hold on people’s imaginations.
Why?
Maybe because so many can identify with someone huddled in darkness, turned away from the inn, apart from family. How many feel displaced, not ‘at home’ in their surroundings? How many suffer the darkness of loneliness, betrayal and rejection? How many dwell in the shadow of illness and grief? How many live, as first-time parents, with self-doubt and anxiety about the future for the family? The material world isn’t always hospitable.
But look closer at the baby: a universal symbol of hope and love.
But there’s more: a light radiating from the baby, and the light casts out darkness which has no power against the light. The light is the sign of God in a human life, re-creating lives. The light radiates not just from human love, but is divine: the eternal power of life, love and grace that seeks to fill wherever there is darkness. This light is not of this world, but it transforms this world.
At Christmas, those who have found the glory of this joy gather to give thanks for, and share, this most wonderful inner peace.
Come and join us and, wherever you are, may you know God’s blessings of joy.
Ven. Dr Rosemary Dunn
Archdeacon of Mission and Ministry and Archdeacon of Mackay
No matter who you are, or where you’re from, you’ve probably heard “Jingle Bells” at least once. Some people love to blast carols in the car as early as November, and others can be less enthusiastic. No matter which side of the fence you sit on, Christmas carols are an iconic celebration of the season that fit perfectly alongside the tree that finds itself a staple in the homes of so many.
Christmas carols have deep roots in cultural and religious traditions. The first carol believed to have been written is nearly 1500 years old. While the nature of the music may have changed, for many the importance of the message remains the same.
One of the most prominent carols that can be heard throughout the festive season is “Silent Night”. The history behind this iconic tune is fascinating, although there are several different opinions on how the carol originated.
The song was originally composed in the early 1800s by Austrian composer Franz Xaver Gruber and the famed lyrics were written by Father Joseph Mohr, a young catholic priest. Silent Night, or as it was then known, “Stille Nacht”, was first performed in a small Austrian parish in Oberndorf on Christmas Eve in 1818. On this fateful night, the young priest brought his writings to Gruber and pleaded with him to compose a melody and guitar accompaniment for them. This was to be done with haste, as river flooding had damaged the church organ, and an alternative was needed for that evening's mass.
The mass went off without a hitch and a new carol was born. From there the acclaimed tune travelled across the globe and was declared an “intangible cultural heritage” by UNESCO in 2011.
The tradition of singing Christmas carols is a multi-faceted celebration of joy, tradition, community, and creativity. These timeless melodies connect us to the past, illuminate the religious significance of the holiday, and foster a sense of togetherness that defines the Christmas spirit.
Christmas is a time to stop work, rest awhile, and turn to God. The good news of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world, is a message of great joy for everyone: for you and for me.
This Christmas, find your local church, attend a Christmas service, hear the good news, give your heart to Jesus, and donate to a Christmas appeal.
The Journey to Bethlehem movie is showing in cinemas now. The miracle of the survival of Jesus Christ, the divine Son of God, shows us God’s determination to be with us in life’s struggles. The birth of Jesus Christ is an encouragement to worship the God who ‘became flesh and dwelt among us’ (John 1:14) and to extend a helping hand to the vulnerable people of the world.
People are dying in many war-torn parts of the world. At Christmas time in 1949, the Rev. Frank Byatt, a Methodist Minister, encouraged those gathered around his meal table to give the cost of a Christmas dinner to help those recovering from the Second World War. Each year, through the National Council of Churches, for almost 75 years since then, Christian people raise more than $1.8 million for overseas aid and development. You can give at your local church or online https://christmasbowl.actforpeace.org.au/donate.
Rev. Dr Julia Pitman
St Paul’s Uniting Church
Confidently carving out a sterling reputation in the Whitsunday wedding industry for the past decade, this year was the first time Aquava Boutique Catering embarked on an awards journey, and they started right at the top!
The highly regarded wedding caterers brought home the Gold Award in the Independent Wedding Caterers category at the Australian Bridal Industry Association (ABIA) Awards which were held in Brisbane earlier this month.
The winners are measured by reviews and ratings from over 30,000 newlyweds each year and are determined by a combination of excellence in four factors: quality of product, quality of service, attitude of staff and overall value.
Aquava Boutique Catering is owned and operated by local couple, Sophie and Todd Jordan who pride themselves on their unwavering commitment to providing high-quality culinary experiences.
“Winning the award was an incredible moment for the entire team,” said Sophie and Todd.
“The sheer joy and pride were evident, marking a significant acknowledgment of our collective efforts, dedication, and passion.
“This recognition serves as a motivational boost, reinforcing our commitment to excellence and fuelling our enthusiasm for future endeavours.”
Embracing innovation and staying ahead of culinary trends, Aquava has become a sought-after and well-respected caterer, offering a range of services for almost any celebration, from weddings through to large scale events and intimate dining experiences.
With memorable menus, meticulous attention to detail, and personalised service Sophie says every element is guided by a collaborative effort that unites the strengths and passions of their highly skilled team.
“The dedication and collaboration within our team are pivotal,” they explained.
“Each team member contributes their unique talents to ensure a cohesive and quality catering service.
“We deeply appreciate the collective effort that makes our service possible.
“Our ongoing pursuit of excellence is guided by a humble acknowledgment of our strengths and areas for growth.
“We appreciate the recognition and remain committed to delivering exceptional catering experiences.”
“Our team is a close-knit group, and each member plays a vital role in our success.
“While it's challenging to single out one individual, we would like to express gratitude to every team member for their unwavering dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence.”
Bringing the award home for both the business and broader Whitsunday Wedding Industry, the couple say they love working alongside so many other skilled industry professionals.
“The shared commitment to creating magical moments for couples is what makes the local Whitsunday wedding community so special,” shared Sophie and Todd.
“We look forward to continued collaboration, learning, and collectively raising the bar for the beautiful weddings we contribute to.”
“We would like to express our deep appreciation to our couples and clients for entrusting us with their special moments. Your feedback and support have been instrumental in shaping our services.
“Keep an eye out for upcoming updates as we strive to grow, innovate, and contribute to the dynamic events industry.”
Sophie and Todd Jordan from Aquava Boutique Catering. Photo credit: R Jean Photography
Thrilled to be recognised as a Finalist in two categories at the ABIA Awards, Louise Sugrue from Divine Weddings Whitsundays, says it was a privilege to attend the industry awards held in Brisbane earlier this month.
Coming in seventh place out of 17 hopefuls in the Decorations and Styling category and fifth place out of 11 in the Independent Wedding Consultants category, Louise says she is pleased to rank so high among peers she admires.
“To get that positive feedback and score so high when going up against some of the bigger businesses is just amazing,” she shared.
“I really appreciate my clients scoring me so highly, I’m really happy with that.”
Scoring over 99 per cent in both categories, the Divine Weddings experience and standard of service is highly respected in the industry.
Specialising in boutique wedding planning packages, Divine Weddings primarily caters for elopements, intimate weddings, Whitehaven Beach ceremonies, cruise ships and on-day coordination.
Meanwhile the décor side of the business is versatile and unique, easily adapting to the couple’s chosen style, venue and size of ceremony or reception.
"We really like to incorporate fresh flowers into our styling," said Louise.
“We find them more pleasing to the eye, more natural and they and they have the most beautiful scent – we love working with the client’s chosen flowers and can match with the chosen theming.”
Whether you are looking for the perfect wedding day décor or would like to work with a professional and friendly wedding planner, Divine Weddings Whitsundays can help make your dreams come true for that special day.
Louise Sugrue from Divine Weddings Whitsundays with friend Donna Fornasiero at the ABIA Awards in Brisbane: Photo supplied
You better ‘Take a Chance on Me’ because over these two shows, we’ll have our dancing shoes on and we’ll be dancing our way to Christmas, singing every hit from ABBA’s impressive catalogue along the way.
Coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel stage is none other than SOS, one of Australia’s best ABBA tribute artists.
Samuel Bennett acts as the ineffable Bjorn, and he brings charisma, class and pizzazz like no other.
In the role for coming on seven years, Sam knows exactly what to do and how to do it - when he is up on stage, he will be sure to get the crowd going.
“I have this deep dive passion for ABBA, and I’m thrilled to be in Airlie Beach once again, bringing the sounds of ABBA.”
“We really love coming up to Airlie Beach; it’s always a good time, with the holiday crowd on holiday time. It’s nice to have the beautiful weather and to be with people who just love the music.”
No expense is spared, with SOS bringing across each and every costume, attitude, and energy, ensuring that each and every single member of the crowd has the best time of their lives.
“You can’t have an ABBA show without the ABBA costumes!” Sam explained.
More than just a show, the performance is an experience like no other.
“Our Frida loves to jump off the stage and get involved with the crowd. She’ll roam around and pick on unsuspecting audience members. I remember a time in Airlie when she was singing verses to people, and everyone was having a great time.”
Now, what gets the crowd going?
According to Sam, it’s ‘Dancing Queen’.
“Dancing Queen’ always gets the crowd going. It’d be an absolute tragedy to do an ABBA show without ‘Dancing Queen’. There was a time we were in a mining town in Queensland, to a whole bunch of these big burly mining men, and we thought that the show would be a bust. But as soon as we started playing ‘Dancing Queen’, they started dancing like they were 17 again. It was great!”
But Sam’s favourite to perform are some of the more laid-back classics.
“I love ‘Waterloo’ and ‘Knowing Me Knowing You’, but all ABBA songs are absolute bangers. Everyone knows the words and everyone sings along.”
Sure to take on the 360-degree stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel, Sam and SOS are ready to rock us into the Christmas spirit and into our holiday breaks.
WHAT: SOS: The Australian ABBA Tribute Show
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Friday December 22, 7pm to 10pm and Saturday December 23 from 2pm to 5.30pm
TICKETS: Absolutely Free
An ABBA tribute like no other, SOS will have us wanting more
Be sure to put your dancing shoes on for this one
Rock us into the holiday period. Photos supplied
Sip a celebratory cocktail and enjoy the last rays of sun for 2023, with an early evening New Years Eve Sunset Soiree at Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar.
With perfectly picturesque Coral Sea views and unforgettable entertainment, this is an event you will cherish well into 2024.
Starting at 5pm, begin your New Years celebration early with free entry into Whisper Gin Bar and enjoy a range of free canapes and a complimentary glass of bubbles on arrival, speciality gin cocktail menu, and DJ Dan on the decks with the best tracks, creating the perfect party atmosphere for a sunset soiree.
With the courtesy bus ready to pick you up from home and prepped to drop you off in Airlie Beach for the 8pm family fireworks, you can also continue the celebrations at KC’s Bar and Grill with live music until 2am.
WHAT: Sunset Soiree
WHERE: Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar
WHEN: Sunday December 31, from 5pm to 8pm
TICKETS: Free entry but to secure a seat, RSVP here www.whisperginbar.com
The party doesn’t stop at KC’s Bar and Grill, with celebrations kicking off from 11.30am for all New Years Eve early birds.
The unbelievable entertainment of Retro Joe and Phoebe Jacobs will keep the good vibes going with the unique blend of talent and energy they bring to the stage, blasting the bar with great live music well into the New Year.
What a way to welcome 2024, with a great tunes and unforgettable vocals.
With refreshing cocktails and an all-encompassing menu – including the best steaks in Airlie Beach - KC’s has your New Years Eve covered.
WHAT: Retro Party
WHERE: KC’s Bar and Grill
WHEN: Sunday December 31, from 11.30am to 2am
Get ready to get in the Christmas spirit with the Proserpine Entertainment Centre putting on the perfect event for classic Christmas movie fans.
Love Actually has evolved to become the quintessential Christmas movie, with the PEC hosting their own wine and cheese night for the lovers of all things festive and charcuterie.
Embrace the warmth of this heart-warming Christmas classic that tells the eight romantic stories of Harry and Karen, Juliet, Jamie, Colin, Karl, Sam, and David, as they navigate coming of age, changing of relationships and the new year.
In this event of the year, attendees are welcome to gush about their favourite couples, cringe at the cringiest moments, hold their breath as couples share their first kiss together and sing along to their favourite songs.
Tickets cost $25 per person, and include table seating, a glass of mulled wine, or your choice of a glass of white, red, or sparkling, or juice or soft drink, plus an individual cheese platter.
WHAT: Love Actually – Wine and Cheese Night
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street Proserpine
WHEN: Wednesday December 20, from 5.30pm
TICKETS: https://proserpine.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/116400
Celebrate the festive season with this classic Christmas film. Image supplied
Celebrate the enigmatic Tina Turner, the Queen of Rock and Roll, with her standout vocal, unforgettable charisma, and stunning performance at this one-of-a-kind experience.
Tina Unleashed stands as a testament to her legacy, of the unstoppable powerhouse that Tina Turner was.
And why not spend the show the Tina way, with VIP tickets, which include a bottle of red, white or sparkling wine, or a carafe of juice or soft drink, and a trio of dips, suitable for two people.
WHAT: Tina Unleashed
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street Proserpine
WHEN: Sunday December 17, from 7pm
TICKETS: https://proserpine.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/116330
Hot off its sold out 2023 UK Tour, ‘A Taste of Ireland―The Irish Music & Dance Sensation’ returns with a performance that is ‘Celtic―for this decade’. Laugh, cry and jig into the night with a show that has entertained thousands, as A Taste of Ireland returns to Mackay for the first time in 3 years.
Having performed over 300 shows since 2019, ‘A Taste of Ireland’ has merged cultural traditions, modern flair, and craic galore to deliver a performance that has brought the house down night after night. This season, join an acclaimed cast of champion Irish dancers, dazzling musicians, and a contemporary vocalist, as they blend Irish charm with mind-blowing talents to present an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Featuring revamped classics like ‘Danny Boy’ and ‘Tell Me Ma’, the show’s energetic blend of melodic folk music mash-ups, live jaw-dropping acapella tap battles, and heart-warming emotion, transports you through the story of Ireland’s tumultuous history - complemented by stunning production and lighting.
Starring dancers from Lord of the Dance alongside a treasure trove of Irish Dancing Champions, ’A Taste of Ireland’ merges international Irish dance stars with the very best talent in the nation to deliver intricate choreography that is 100% live.
With over one hundred and fifty 5-star Facebook reviews, ‘A Taste of Ireland’ is exactly what it promises: a taste of everything you love about Ireland with a generous helping of more!
Don’t miss your chance to see one of the world’s most prominent Irish dance shows before it takes off around the globe once again! ‘A Taste of Ireland’ returns in 2024, and it’s truly ‘Celtic―for this decade’.
What: A Taste of Ireland
When: 22 June, 2024. 7:30pm
Where: MECC
Tickets: themecc.com.au
Friday 8 December
Churches Together Christmas Lunch
From 12pm to 2pm
All are invited to attend, with Mayor Greg Williamson featuring the launch of the Christmas Bowl Appeal of the National Council of Churches in Australia.
Discussion on the issues the churches are facing especially at Christmas, and the launch of an appeal for a NAYBA social and economic impact survey and report. | $28 per person, kids under 12 eat free!
Bookings essential by 12pm, 1st December at www.trybooking.com/CNDFF
St Paul’s Uniting Church, Macalister Street
Summer Sounds Vol. 1
From 7pm
Get ready to kick off your summer with a bang at the most exciting music event of the season, “Summer Sounds”! A stellar lineup including Systemic Machine, Inside Lane, Viper Syndicate and Giant Palms are ready to drop an incredible night of music to create a night to remember. | Get your tickets at trybooking.com
Arcadia Bar
Friday Night Live Music
Every Friday from 5pm
Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.
Boomerang Hotel
DJ Tikelz
From 9pm
Reggae | R&B | Old School | Dancehall | Island Jamz
If that’s your vibe then this night with special guest DJ TIKELZ is for you! | Ticket available at the door.
The Rabbit Hole
Saturday 9 December
Mackay Showground Markets
Every Saturday from 6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
Special Olympics Mackay Fire Multi Sport Event
Saturday and Sunday from 8:30am
Special Olympics Mackay Fire invites Special Olympics athletes and those athletes with an intellectual disability to have a go at 3on3 basketball, table tennis, bocce and ten pin bowling.
Lock it in your calendar! | Tickets available online.
187 Borgs Rd, Alligator Creek
Falun Gong Classes
Every Saturday from 10am
Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.
You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.
Live Music Saturdays
Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm
Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.
The Kooyong Hotel
Sunday 10 December
Troppo Markets
7.30am to 11.30am
Monthly Event, held on the second Sunday of each month
Mackay’s Troppo Treasure Markets will keep you coming back with a never-ending variety of items for sale and plenty of entertainment and amusements too.
It’s more than just shopping… it turns your Sunday into a fun day.
Come and be a part of this major community event!
Mount Pleasant
The Memorial Swimming Centre Is Turning 60!
Sunday from 11am to 4pm
Jumping castle, merry-go-round and rock climbing wall, as well as a vintage car display, rock and roll dancers and live entertainment from The Two Māori’s. | Free entry.
Milton St, Mackay
Sunday Bingo
Every Sunday from 7pm
Come along and you could win! | Free entry.
South Leagues Club
Monday 11 December
Trivia Night
From 6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!
Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?
Round up your friends and get your geek on!
Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club
Trivia Night
From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.
Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.
Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.
Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club
Tuesday 12 December
Trivia Night
From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Don’t miss this December’s Christmas Comedy Gala, featuring Queensland’s top comedians for an 18+ night of laughter. Join with your colleagues, friends, or anyone for a grown-up twist on the 12 Days of Christmas.
Headliner Shayne Hunter, known for his smart and hilarious comedy, leads the lineup. Host Anna Brennan and her Drag King alter ego, Bruce Hwy, bring raw and anecdotal storytelling to the stage. Kody Maverick and Max Leishman add fresh, friendly humour to the mix. Expect an unforgettable night of laughter. | Tickets available at tickets.avclive.com.au
The Metropolitan Hotel
Wednesday 13 December
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 and learn from each other. 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
Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy 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. $8 for members and $10 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Thursday 14 December
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 dessert.
Bluewater Quay
Summer Sounds @ Arcadia Bar
DJ Tikelz @ The Rabbit Hole
Special Olympics Multisport Event
Troppo Markets
Mackay Farmers Market
The Memorial Swimming Centre
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The Mackay Bowling Club was the hub for a festive luncheon on 30th November, with 26 residents and carers from BlueCare Mackay Homefield Aged Care Facility attending the club to enjoy a Christmas lunch.
The annual event usually takes place at a local hotel, but this year, no bus was available for transport.
Organisers Mike Irving, John Jorgensen and Brad Robertson banded together to offer the group a suitable place to enjoy their festivities, which is right next door to their living quarters!
A delicious meal and a joyous occasion for all involved. This is the first year this option has been available, and the organisers hope to be able to continue it for Christmas in 2024.
Organisers John Jorgensen (left) and Brad Robertson
Twenty-six residents and carers enjoyed a delicious Christmas meal
Photo credit: Sinead Porter
The team from Artspace Mackay will call the Dudley Denny City Library home over the holiday season, as the gallery undergoes critical facility maintenance works.
The team of curators will set up in the quiet space of the library, allowing them to deliver some fascinating public programs and work on the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection.
Artspace Mackay closed on Monday, December 4, and is anticipated to re-open early May 2024.
This closure will extend to both the gallery and Foodspace Café, with Foodspace relocating to the MECC during the closure period to offer takeaway service only.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Artspace Mackay was a AAA-rated, international standard gallery space that had just celebrated its 20th birthday.
“We need to ensure our regional gallery can maintain that rating and international standard, so we can continue to attract and secure high-profile exhibitions,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Building improvement works will focus on ensuring the internal cooling systems are renewed and in peak condition,” he said.
Artspace Mackay director Tracey Heathwood said during the closure the team were taking the opportunity to deliver their regular programming out in the community.
“We are investigating some alternative venues across the region, especially in rural localities,” Ms Heathwood said.
“The BMA Kidspace, Conversations with Art, Kids Art Club, Art and Memory and Artists’ Book of the Month programs will continue to run and we will update the details and locations of these on our website and social media as soon as possible.”
For more information on the upgrades, public programs or to view the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection online, head to artspacemackay.com.au
A weekly operator at Mackay Farmer’s Market is Venton’s Tropical Blooms, who offer a comprehensive range of heliconias, gingers and tropical foliage to beautify your home or gift on special occasions. Venton’s have an array of banana varieties, including Cavendish, Ducasse and Dwarf Ducasse.
Paw paws, papayas, passionfruit, black sapotes, carambolas, star apples, mangoes, lychees, limes and lemons are also seasonally available, as well as tropical plums, persimmons and a wide variety of avocado trees.
Mackay Music have a range of hot deals this Christmas for all music enthusiasts, including the ever popular Fender Pack. This deal features the Squier Sonic Stratocaster, Squier Frontman 10 watt amp, along with accessories like a padded gig bag, 3 metre cable, strap, and picks priced at $529.
You can also find a range of beautiful music-inspired jewellery and accessories, a perfect gift or stocking stuffer leading into the festive season!
The Rug Gallery proudly stocks a wide selection of rugs, cushions and hides made from top quality leather, supplied by NSW Leather Co. All materials are hypoallergenic, making this the best option for cowhide rugs in Australia.
The Rug Gallery source a range of luxurious cowhide, Mongolian sheepskin, goatskin and reindeer skin rugs in a variety of patterns and colour palettes that are sure to make a bold statement in your home.
Let the Children Play Toyshop don’t only cater to the kids. The storefront stocks a dedicated array of adult board games featuring categories of strategy, logic, spelling, trivia, party and card games.
Explore vintage classics such as Axis and Allies, Sequence and Triominos, as well as modern fan-favourites including Dorfromantik, Azul and Memory Maze.
The storefront also offers deluxe wooden chess sets, bingo roller cages, poker cards and shufflers. Explore The Games Collection catalogue in-store for hot deals in the countdown to Christmas!
Venton’s Tropical Blooms stall at the Mackay Farmers Market
The Fender Pack deal is one you don’t want to miss at Mackay Music
Explore the beauty of hide rugs with The Rug Gallery
Find an extensive collection for adults and children at Let the Children Play Toyshop
Photo credit: Sinead Porter
Last week, approximately 100 stakeholders from the port industry and local community gathered at the Mackay Surf Club to celebrate their collective achievements at the North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) End of Year Stakeholder Event.
This year amongst the achievements was a bumper trade year at the Port of Mackay thanks to strong sugar, grain and fuel trade, strong environmental results and $120,000 donated across NQBP’s port communities.
Thank you to all stakeholders for their support and the commitment of NQBP’s people, port partners, customers, and port communities.
As a Queensland Government-owned port authority, NQBP is responsible for the ports of Mackay, Abbot Point, Hay Point, and Weipa in far north Queensland.
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb, Mackay Isaac Tourism’s Andrea Davis, Wisely Group’s Chris Bugeja
NQBP Board Chair Jane McTaggart, NQBP Board Director Jorgen Gullestrup and NQBP Board Director Lynn Smart
AECOM’s Bart Wassink and NQBP Board Director Paul Heagney
NQBP Board Director Monica McKendry and Mackay Regional Council Cr Fran Mann
Auriga Group’s Keith Thompson and NQBP’s Darren Brownsey
NQBP’s Kevin Kane and Mackay and Whitsunday Life’s Zach Thomas and Jessica Clark
Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Cr Karen May, Greater Whitsunday Alliance’s Kylie Porter and Greater Whitsunday Communities Antoinette du Toit
Vassallo Constructions’ Jared Vassallo and Marcus Fossey with NQBP’s Kingo Gan and Hossein Saadai
NQBP CEO Brendan Webb welcomes guests
Yuwi representative Uncle Philip Kemp provided a Welcome to Country
The Jubilee Community Centre is buzzing with excitement as it hosts a series of vibrant celebrations to mark the International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) this week and the next. Under the theme "Working Together for a Fairer World," this year's IDPwD aims to create a more inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.
Organised by the Bee Creativezzz team and backed by council support, a spectrum of engaging workshops and activities are captivating participants at the Jubilee Community Centre. Councillors Bonaventura, Jones and Green joined in on the fun of a drumming workshop.
The festivities don't end here! Next week, a delightful array of bee-themed craft activities is set to enchant visitors of all ages. Everyone is invited to partake in these imaginative sessions, embracing the spirit of creativity and inclusivity.
For those eager to be a part of these upcoming events or seeking more information, feel free to reach out to Fiona Vuibeqa at fiona.vuibeqa@mackay.qld.gov.au. Be part of this heartwarming celebration and contribute to fostering a more diverse and inclusive world for everyone.
Songs, poem readings, drum workshops and arts and crafts have been part of the fun so far celebrating International Day of People with Disability
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