Entertainment

Mackay Ballet Talent To Shine At Royal Academy Of Dance Awards

Mackay Ballet Talent To Shine At Royal Academy Of Dance Awards

The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is proud to announce that the highly prestigious Shirley Treacy Awards will take centre stage in Mackay on Sunday 10 August 2025, at The Theatre at the Conservatorium of Music, providing an opportunity to celebrate and reward the region’s RAD ballet students. Named in honour of Shirley Treacy OAM – a trailblazing Townsville-born dance educator, examiner and passionate advocate for regional dance – these Awards are among the newest on the RAD’s annual calen

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A Rare Orchestral Event

A Rare Orchestral Event

Queensland Symphony Orchestra Returns To Mackay For Northern Lights And Southern Stars For the first time in over a decade, Mackay will welcome the full forces of the Queensland Symphony Orchestra (QSO) for their unforgettable performance, Northern Lights & Southern Stars on Thursday 30 October 2025 at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC). “This is the real McCoy” said Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager of MECC and Events. “Not a chamber group, not a scaled down version,

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Film Festival Fever Hits Mackay

Film Festival Fever Hits Mackay

Are you ready? Film Arts Mackay have some excellent films lined up this year, showcasing a diverse selection of cinema from around the world. Adding to the excitement, they also have a couple of exciting bonuses, Q&A sessions with the filmmakers of Road to the North and Strange Creatures. Upcoming Films: Friday, 1st August - BCC Mt Pleasant Cinemas 7.00pm – Holy Cow & Opening Night Event $35pp (FAM members & Non-members) Includes wine and French- inspired finger food Saturday, 2nd Augu

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Start Writing

Start Writing

A Creative Workshop For Beginners If you’ve ever wanted to write but weren’t sure where to begin, this free storytelling workshop is for you. The Essentials of Storytelling workshop will be held at the Dudley Denny Library on Saturday, 16 August, and is designed for anyone aged 15 and up who wants to explore the fundamentals of creative writing in a relaxed, welcoming setting. This interactive two-hour session – presented by publishing consultant 852 Press director Dr Julia Evans and acco

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Better Built Sheds

Local Talent And Acclaimed Artist Converge At Artspace Mackay

August 24, 2023

Artspace Mackay welcomed three new exhibitions last weekend with two local creatives showing alongside a nationally acclaimed video installation artist.

Artspace Mackay’s new suite of exhibitions are Zanny Begg: These Stories Will be Different, Kara Day: Ladylike and Stephen Homewood: Turbulence.

Zanny Begg is a video installation artist who works across drawing, film, social and spatial practice to explore questions of feminism, migration and ecological and intergenerational responsibility.

Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood said the team were excited to have Zanny Begg’s work at the gallery.

Ms Heathwood said Zanny Begg’s exhibition would appeal to a wide audience because her works told fascinating stories in creative and original ways.

“‘These Stories Will be Different’ brings together a fascinating series of works, including one that probes the unsolved murder of a high-profile anti-gentrification campaigner in Sydney in 1975.

“The work, called The Beehive (2018), looks at the story of Juanita Nielsen, who campaigned against the violent eviction of tenants from Kings Cross and Potts Point.

“Nielsen was last seen entering a venue managed by one of Sydney’s most notorious crime bosses.

“What’s fascinating about this work is how Zanny uses an algorithm to create a randomised video installation that allows more than 1344 versions of the story to unfold, each with a unique insight into this unsolved mystery.”

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to see two Mackay artists opening in the gallery alongside Zanny Begg.

“Mackay-raised artist Kara Day works across textile, sculpture and watercolour; and while the portraits in this exhibition (Kara Day: Ladylike) can be confronting, they are also really thought-provoking,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Stephen Homewood, who is also a Mackay artist, works in an experimental style that’s really colourful and abstract,” he said.

“His recent works on paper showcase turbulent waterscapes that combine two signature coastal Australia icons – the shark and the surf lifesaver.”

Zanny Begg: These stories Will be Different will be on show until November 12 and Kara Day: Ladylike and Stephen Homewood: Turbulence will be on show until November 5.

Follow Artspace Mackay on Facebook or head to artspacemackay.com.au for more information.

Zanny Begg | These Stories Will be Different is a UNSW Galleries and Museums & Galleries of NSW touring exhibition. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.

Zanny Begg, The Beehive, UNSW Galleries, Photo credit: Steven Siewert

The ‘iron-y’, putting the finishing touches on Kara Day’s exhibition, Ladylike

Artist: Stephen Homewood

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Car Park Safety Concerns

August 24, 2023

Following Near Misses With Children

Following numerous incidents at a nearby car park, Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) has shared their concern for children’s safety in an open letter to Mackay Regional Council.

The letter, penned by Eimeo SLSC President Cynthia Hegarty, suggests a risk management plan for the car park, located between the clubhouse and Eimeo beach, requesting a boom gate to be installed at the entrance.

Eimeo SLSC President Cynthia Hegarty said that the car park is often used by children to get from the clubhouse and toilet block to the beach, creating the risk of a collision with a vehicle and causing further issues for the Surf Life Saving Club’s beach patrollers.

Just last season, a campervan almost reversed over a child at a Nippers event on a Sunday morning, stopped only by the intervention of a vigilant parent.

“Over the past few years, we have had a number of near misses with vehicle to person interactions on Nippers days in the carpark directly in front of the Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club,” said Ms Hegarty.

“A core foundation of the Eimeo SLSC is rigorous risk management to protect our members and the public.

“We have consulted our members and the general public on ways we can manage the risk of vehicle to person interactions in the carpark between the club house and the beach.

“The consensus is that an Engineering Control of a boom gate is required to effectively control this risk when there are children around.

“The Club has previously used signage in an attempt to control the risk with limited effect.”

Ms Hegarty hopes the installation of a boom gate will enable the club to restrict vehicle access in the carpark during events where children are present.

The club is in the process of organising an e-petition to support the request.

Vehicle operators are reminded to be aware while navigating the car park and to do so using courtesy and caution.

Eimeo SLSC warns car park users to be vigilant on event days. Photo supplied

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Introducing Insane Cane Train

August 24, 2023

Local Band To Debut At The Brewery

If you disregard how often some of the members indulged in a cold pale ale at Red Dog Brewery, it’s a beautiful coincidence that Insane Cane Train’s first ever gig will take place at the same location the band was conceptualised.

Lead singer and guitarist Dom Pinzone is a seasoned performer at the Chain Street brewery, his sets often involving everything from Ball Park Music to Neutral Milk Hotel.

With a drum kit packed up in the corner of his apartment and a strong desire to write music with other people, Dom met Sam Gillespie and discovered he played drums and had a shed to practise in, so Mackay’s newest band was formed.

“I love playing in a band as opposed to playing solo,” Dom said.

“There is this fantastic feeling hearing each member nail their part that will ever get old.”

The pair went on to recruit their friends Lainie Tilse on the keyboard, Gilbert Gray on lead guitar, Bennett Hardwick on bass and Hannah Walsh on vocals, creating a full, tight and impactful sound that has been fine-tuned with intensive band practise, especially over recent weeks.

“We definitely had to kick preparations up a gear,” Dom laughed.

“I sprung the gig on the band only a month and a half out so I'm probably responsible for a bit of stress.”

Dom cited three motivations for what was to become Insane Cane Train: firstly, an old bandmate from Brisbane.

“I think he's a genius and I appreciate him and his insight into not only music, but all aspects of life,” Dom said.

“Second is the budding Mackay music scene – I’m constantly impressed by the events and bands around town and feel a strong pull to get involved.

“Lastly but certainly not least; the band, the mates, knowing these beautiful people who just happen to also have amazing talents and share a passion for music.”

Dom Pinzone will take the stage at Red Dog Brewery this Saturday, August 26 from 4:00pm, with Insane Cane Train to perform from 6:00pm.

“Expect songs that are infectiously conducive to good times,” he said.

“Expect unbridled bopping to the debut of our first original song.

“Expect a twist on what unimaginative people may call ‘relatively simple content.’”

WHAT: Insane Cane Train

WHEN: Saturday, August 26 from 4:00pm

WHERE: Red Dog Brewery, Chain Street

This is a free event

Local musician Dom Pinzone will front a new band performing at the brewery this weekend

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THE BALL IS IN YOUR COURT

August 24, 2023

MACKAY COUNCIL ENCOURAGES NOMINATIONS TO SPORTING HALL OF FAME

By Sinead Porter

When you hear the term ‘dedicated to sport’, who in your life instantly springs to mind?

You can now recommend your top pick from the local community to Mackay Regional Council’s Sporting Hall of Fame.

This institution has been developed to recognise the region’s residents who have made outstanding achievements in their sport.

No matter your age or skill level, if you have made an impactful contribution to your sport, the Mackay Regional Council would love to hear about it!

Mayor Greg Williamson said the hall of fame wasn’t just for athletes, but also leaders, officials, support staff and coaches.

“With our state set to host the 2032 Olympics, we decided that now was the perfect time to highlight the Mackay region as a sporting powerhouse,” Mayor Williamson said.

“We have so many tremendous athletes, coaches, support staff and officials who have represented Queensland and Australia in various sports, as well as Olympians, Paralympians and Commonwealth Games representatives,” he said.

“Not only will the hall of fame provide recognition to those who have achieved great things in their sporting endeavours, it will also provide inspiration to up-and-coming sports people.

“It will allow them to identify their role models and show them that regional athletes can make it to the highest echelons in sport.”

Mayor Williams hopes to see the Sporting Hall of Fame showcase the ‘many amazing athletes our region produces’ and ‘attract more funding for development of our coaches, athletes, officials and sporting infrastructure.’

Successful nominations will receive a certificate from the Office of the Mayor and their name, photo and achievements will be displayed on the Mackay Sporting Hall of Fame website and other council media and facilities where appropriate.

Nominations for the hall of fame are now open and the form is available online at:

mackay.qld.gov.au/halloffame

Nominations will be accepted at any time, with applications considered on a quarterly basis.

Applicants are encouraged to read the eligibility criteria before submitting a nomination.

Mayor Greg Williamson with young athletes from the North Mackay Athletics Club during construction of the ARC

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Adrenaline Junkies Get Ready

August 24, 2023

The Dittmann Bucking Bulls Returns

The high thrills and exciting spills of Dittmann Bucking Bulls is back for 2023 and promising to be a PBR not to miss.

Already a massive event on the PBR calendar, Dittmann Bucking Bulls and Bull Pit is known for having a fantastic display of human strength against these massive animals, to the sound of loud cries and even louder applause.

Prepping with rodeos in the region, these seasoned pros are more than ready to give us Whitsunday locals a fantastic show.

Expect the best of the biggest bulls and the ultimate shows of strength, determination, and grit as these courageous riders compete to beat the beasts and each other on the night.

This family friendly affair is a massive event on the PBR calendar, with camping available for keen attendees.

And don’t miss the official PBR After Party featuring Bad Influence, with a variety of food trucks, market stalls, kids rides and live music, beginning from 7pm.

WHAT: Dittmann Bucking Bulls and Bull Pit

WHERE: 145 Midge Point Road, Bloomsbury

WHEN: Saturday August 26

TICKETS: https://bit.ly/3QCD9vx

Prepare to be entertained by these courageous thrill seekers, taking on the bucking bulls. Photo supplied

Show And Shine

This Weekend

Head on down to Banjo’s Bar and Grill this Sunday for the second iteration of the Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club ‘Show and Shine’ car, bike and four-wheel drive display.

The last event, held in March this year, attracted over 45 vehicles and organisers are hoping for the same again.

WHAT: Show and Shine

WHERE: Banjo’s Bar and Grill

WHEN: Sunday, August 27

TIME: From 10am

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Matilda Jr The Musical At Cannonvale State School

August 24, 2023

Our ever-ambitious local state school is taking on, not only one of the best children’s books ever written but also one of the best musicals in the world, with its upcoming adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Matilda.

This classic children’s story was given an edgier, modern reincarnation when it was transformed into the multi-award-winning stage performance written by Dennis Kelly and Tim Minchin.

With sing-along songs that many will remember, a feisty cast of characters and a relatable school setting, tickets are already selling fast for what is expected to be a sell-out event.

Over 200 students from every year level are participating in the musical, either as the on-stage cast or back-stage in areas such as lighting and sound.

Rehearsals have been a big part of the lives of both students and teachers over the past few months and everyone in the school community is looking forward to seeing all their dedicated hours of practice come together in front of the audience.

Matilda Jr the Musical tells the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a sharp mind and a vivid imagination, dares to take a stand to change her story with miraculous results.

She is a girl who loves reading and is inspired by her favourite teacher Miss Honey to overcome obstacles caused by her family and school and especially by the villain headmistress Miss Trunchball.

WHAT: Matilda Jr The Musical

WHERE: Cannonvale State School

WHEN: Friday, September 8 at 6.30pm

Saturday, September 9 at 2pm and 6.30pm

TICKETS: SCAN THIS CODE

The cast of Cannonvale State School is excited to perform their interpretation of Matilda Jr The Musical. Photo supplied

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The Biggest Don Yet

August 24, 2023

2023 Don River Dash Is Ready To Race

Motor cross and endurance drivers get ready, the Don River Dash is upcoming and set to be one of the biggest years for the event.

Still in its infancy, the event has seen an unprecedented explosion in its popularity, with hundreds of keen competitors flocking to Bowen for the exciting competition.

“You see all sorts of different classes, different machines, with different engine capacities,” explained Wanita Sparr, Don River Dash Event Secretary.

“It’s a unique course with a reverse grid format, meaning the smaller engine capacity cars are first, with the big machines at the back, which make for a more exciting and thrilling race.”

This two-day competition sees participants take to the Don River, completing three loops of the track on Saturday, and another three on Sunday.

But don’t forget, the motorcycle race happens after the 4-wheeled machines take on the course, making for an unpredictable ride!

“It’s a mix of enduro-long range racing and motor cross,” said Wanita.

At this stage, the Dash has almost 250 bikes nominated, with only nine racers from Bowen.

This is much the same with the car nominations, with 108 nominations, 6 from Bowen.

And don’t forget the Ironman Challenge, where competitors take part in both the car and bike competitions.

With only one nomination at this stage, with more sure to sign up, the weekend is building up to be a thrill seekers delight.

“This is like Mad Max, with great jumps, natural sloops and the bikers just have to hang on!” said Wanita.

“It’s a very technical course, and the Sunday course is next level!

“The bikers are the gladiators of The Don, having to take account of the sloops, the ground, and especially the shifting density of the sand.”

For spectators, “It’s best to just come in blind and just go ‘holy shit, these people are courageous!”

“It’s an incredible event and amazing for the region.”

In 2021, Tourism Events Queensland reported that The Dash brought in an estimated 1.138 million in economic and tourism expenditure.  

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the Don River Dash provides a great boost for the economy.

“People book accommodation months in advance for this event which continues to grow each year,” she said.

“The competitors and their support crew often come a few days prior and then stay on after the event, so they support many types of businesses in town.

“It is also a great spectator event, enhancing the experience of our visitors as well as locals.”

Over 300 competitors expected to cruise into town and Bowen will be a hive of activity, fun, and excitement – make sure you head down and check it out!

WHAT: Don River Dash

WHERE: Bowen Showground

WHEN: Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September

The Don River Dash is expecting hundreds of competitors and spectators for the exciting thrills and spills of the Dash

With an increasing motorbike division, the Don River Dash is amping up for 2023. Photo supplied

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‘Working Class Man’ Is Soul Chisel

August 24, 2023

And The ‘Good Times’ At The Airlie Beach Hotel

Airlie Beach get ready; a superstar is coming to town.

Well, one of the best looking and most lifelike resemblances of Jimmy Barnes, Soul Chisel is taking up residence on the Airlie Beach Hotel stage for a weekend of power.

Saturday September 2 and Sunday September 3, from 2 to 5.30pm, the Airlie Beach Hotel will be the place to be.

Creator and front man of Soul Chisel is Steve Callanan, a legend in his own right.

Steve, with his uncanny resemblance to Aussie legend Jimmy Barnes, has been bringing the charm and charisma of Jimmy across the nation.

“It so funny when people see me get on stage and whip out their phones because they think the real Jimmy’s just stepped on stage, but it’s just an old bloke who sorta looks like him and sings like him.”

Even appearing on The Voice Australia, Steve wasn’t able to turn a single mentor chair, with each star believing the real Jimmy Barnes was up on stage, belting out tunes.

Steve has got Father’s Day sorted, with his powerful show perfectly aligned with the holiday, what a treat to Aussie blokes of Airlie Beach.

“It’s a fantastic happy coincidence, that we get to make sure they’re enjoying their Father’s Day,” said Steve.

Encompassing the entire energy of Jimmy Barnes, Soul Chisel does not miss a beat, ensuring the best experience for the audience.

“We have Jim’s blessing for our show, and we’re sure to cover the party side of things!

“We play tribute and leave the impersonation to the comedians!”

No hit tune will be left out of these two back-to-back sets, covering all the very best of Jimmy Barnes.

“I love the slow Jim songs, ‘Stone Cold’, ‘Working Class Man’, and ‘Flame Trees’, ‘cause it gets people up and singing back to me.”

But don’t worry because more is always in store with Steve and Soul Chisel.

Moving through Cold Chisel, Working Class Man and Freight Train Heart, to Barnsey’s Soul Deep repertoire, there is something for everyone at this show.

Be sure to get yourself the best seat in the house, with Steve and the band sure to call for audience interaction and get you to sing along to the best hits.

“We just make sure that everyone knows that we know they’re there, and that they’re having a good time.”

WHAT: Soul Chisel, the Ultimate Jimmy Barnes Tribute

WHERE: The Pub, at the Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 September

Touching on all aspects of Jimmy Barnes’ career, Soul Chisel is perfect for any fan

Stemming from his uncanny resemblance of the Aussie legend, Steve Callanan is a legend himself

Airlie Beach Hotel is making sure that Airlie Beach knows how to rock this September

Barnsey and Barnsey with uncanny resemblance. Photos supplied

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Aussie Rockers In Bowen

August 24, 2023

A piece of Aussie music history will have a ‘Rendezvous’ at the Grand View Hotel for one night only of rock and roll!

Iconic Aussie pub-rockers, the Choirboys are prepared to give a show like no other, treating local audiences to their massive hits that took Australia by storm back in the 1980s.

With a massive discography of 13 albums, and 15 singles, no chart-topping hit will be missed.

Performing all their fan-favourites and long-loved hits, like ‘Run To Paradise’, all four decades of the Choirboys will be traversed.

Don’t miss the ‘Big Bad Noise’ at the Grand View Hotel, as all their classics will be sure to be on the set list.

Within the permeating history of Aussie pub rock, the Choirboys have cemented themselves into the rich history of classic Australian pubs, rural or city, no matter what.

We’ll be staying up till the ‘Midnight Sun’ to catch this entire set list, which is sure to impress and bring back the ‘Struggletown’ blues that we all have, with the ‘Bad Moon Rising’ over this ‘Fortunate Son’.

Experience a piece of rock history with Bowen rock enthusiasts and everyone who loves great Aussie music!

For one absolutely chockas night of legendary music, do not miss out and get your tickets tonight.

WHAT: The Choirboys

WHERE: The Grand View Hotel, Bowen

WHEN: Saturday, August 26, doors open at 6pm

TICKETS: grandviewhotelbowen.com.au at $59 each

Aussie rockers, Choirboys will be the performance of the year, at the Grand View Hotel. Photo supplied

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Get Keen For Colour Community Colour Fun Run

August 24, 2023

The community colour fun run is back for 2023, with Whitsunday Counselling and Support gearing up for a bigger event than ever.

Ready with a jumping castle, bubbles, face painting, sausage sizzle, raffles, prizes, and of course the coveted colour fun run, this absolutely free event will see smiles and laughter from everyone who attends.

Taking place during Child Protection Week, organisers aim to raise awareness that all adult community members are responsible for ensuring that our children remain safe and nurtured.

WHAT: Whitsunday Counselling and Support Colour Fun Run

WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Lawns

WHEN: Saturday, September 9, from 9am

PRICE: ABSOLUTELTY FREE

Covered in paint and having lots of fun! Photo supplied

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Relaxation And Delight

August 24, 2023

Coral Sea Resort Long Lunch

Get ready for a delightful afternoon of calm energy and delicious food, with Coral Sea Resort’s Long Lunch.

Set on the backdrop of the beautiful and picturesque Coral Sea, this guided experience is perfect for a Sunday afternoon, sending off a gentle weekend.

With a menu consisting of absolutely delectable high tea goodies, craftly curated by Head Chef Michael Dominici, perfectly paired indulgent wines, and sweeping live acoustics, this is not an event to miss.

WHAT: Coral Sea Resort Long Lunch

WHERE: Coral Sea Resort Jetty

WHEN: Sunday, August 27, from 12pm to 3pm

TICKETS: $150 per person, available at whitsundaytickets.com.au

Don your best white outfit and get ready for an afternoon of high class, relaxing delight. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

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The Power Of Gospel

August 24, 2023

Prepare to be amazed and blown away by the outstanding Soweto Gospel Choir, with their touching performance, ‘Hope’, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre this September.

A completely new production, Hope speaks on the Freedom movement by Nelson Mandela in South Africa and the Civil Rights Movement in America in the 1950s by Martin Luther King.

Celebrating songs and anthems from these time periods, Soweto takes audiences through the journey of liberation and fighting for freedom, beginning with intimate South African freedom songs, before moving into American freedom movements with protest music, including works from iconic artists James Brown, Sam Cooke, Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin.

Feel the powerful message sung through amazing musicians and artists, who have received critical acclaim across the globe.

Soweto Gospel Choir are triple Grammy winners, spreading their voices and words across the globe since 2002.

Celebrating the unique and powerful influence of African Gospel music, the Soweto Gospel Choir is not a performance to miss.

Feel enriched and empowered by these stand out performers and vocalists, with their outstanding renditions of African American spiritual, folk, and gospel music.

WHAT: Soweto Gospel Choir: Hope

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

WHEN: Sunday September 3, from 5pm

TICEKTS: proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

Feel the power of these African Gospel songs by Soweto Gospel Choir at the PEC. Photo supplied

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Flametree, A Festival Fundraiser

August 24, 2023

Bringing music lovers together to celebrate the reef and raise money for its protection, are at the foundations of the inaugural Flametree Gathering, brought to you by respected local musician David Flower and his partner Bronwyn Garland.

A grassroots gathering, with all proceeds going towards Eco Barge Clean Seas, the event promises to be both inspiring and empowering, a mix of music, art, soul practice, food stalls, games and fun.

A total of nine acts will perform on the day, with both local and state-wide talent handpicked and invited to bring a special flair to the event.

Featuring world class musicians from Julian James to Trilliah, Bobby Longstaff, to The Barlyshakes, the music ranges from Blues to rock folk and reggae so there’s a little bit of something for everyone.

David and Bronwyn felt inspired to raise money for Eco Barge Clean Seas and the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre when they volunteered on one of their regular beach clean missions and experienced firsthand the great work they do.

“It was incredible how much stuff we picked up from the beach - I think 250kg was collected by 10 volunteers in two hours!” he explained.

“The whole thing is run by volunteers, and it is so important we keep the boat running.”

Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge, said she is extremely grateful to hear proceeds will come to her charity organisation, and is looking forward to coming to the event and celebrating what they do with the rest of the volunteers.

“By the end of the year we will have collected 250,000 kilos of marine debris!” said Libby.

“It’s been a long journey and it’s wonderful that David has nominated us – we’re really chuffed and honoured.

“It will also be a great opportunity for many of the volunteers to come together and celebrate.”

During the event Libby will host a stall where attendees can stop for a chat, find out more about Eco Barge and volunteer their time for one of the beach clean missions.

“We have over 2,500 volunteers, but there is always room for more!” she said.

David said he has always loved the name ‘Flametree’ and has wanted to hold an event in the area for many years.

When his friend offered him the use of some private land, he knew his dream was coming true and by creating a fundraiser festival he has deepened the meaningful intention of the event.

“It’s a family friendly event and kids under 12 go free!” said David.

“There will be games, activities and of course back-to-back live music,”

Well-known regional artist La Lune Croker will be creating some art for the event and there will also be soul practice sessions by event co-organiser Bronwyn Garland of Garland of Hope.

A burger bar run by Eco Barge and their volunteers will keep the crowds well-fed and a charity raffle will include prizes from Cruise Whitsundays, Goodness Gracious and tickets to Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

Kicking off at 10am, live music at the inaugural Flametree Gathering will begin at 12pm and continue until the event close at 10pm.

Please note, this is a BYO event and organisers are promoting responsible drinking.

WHAT: Flametree Gathering

WHERE: 65a Jasinique Drive, Flametree

WHEN: Saturday, September 2

TIME: 10am – 10pm

TICKETS: $85

David Flower will be performing at the inaugural Flametree Gathering.

Festival co-founders David Flower and Bronwyn Garland with Eco Barge Clean Seas founder, Libby Edge, on the boat trip that inspired the partnership.

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Collinsville QCWA Welcome New Hall

August 24, 2023

The Collinsville branch of Queensland Country Women’s Association is excited to unveil their brand-new hall, with official Grand Opening celebrations scheduled for September.

As part of a five-year plan, the construction of the new hall has been an eager upgrade for the ladies.

Constructed by Bowen local Lowcocks Builders, the hall was aided by numerous local businesses being a part of the project.

The official grand opening will include an extensive morning market, with fantastic handmade and local produce and goodies.

The Collinsville Country Women will also hold their ‘Sconversation Day’, encouraging everyone to purchase a scone and a cuppa for only $5.

The ladies have been busy beautifying the hall, as well as putting together a wide array of garden beds in the front yard, ensuring the hall is perfect on the day.

With excitement in the air for the Collinsville ladies, this is set to be a day of happiness and fun.

WHAT: QCWA Collinsville Grand Opening of Hall

WHERE: 33 Conway Street, Collinsville

WHEN: Saturday September 23, Markets begin at 9am, with the official Grand Opening beginning at 10am

The eager QCWA Collinsville ladies on the night they received the keys to the new hall. Photo supplied

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Step Right Up To The Spectacular Circus Extravaganza!

August 24, 2023

Weber Bros Entertainment is set to dazzle and amaze the residents of Cannonvale with the grandest circus show called – ‘THE CIRCUS’.  

Prepare to be captivated by a mesmerizing display of talent from performers hailing from all corners of the globe.  

This is an international event that promises to leave no one disappointed.

The Circus promises to be an adrenaline pumping 2-hour spectacle, featuring a lineup of extraordinary and world-class acts that includes comedians, FMX riders, BMX mega ramp, beautiful aerialists, and the show-stopping Human Cannon Ball.  

Our performers and crew are brought together from a diverse array of countries.  

Some of these acts have not been seen in Australia under The Big Top, making it an exciting opportunity for patrons to experience something truly unique and unforgettable, there is something for everyone under The Big Top.

Beyond the jaw-dropping stunts and heart-stopping performances, The Circus fosters a sense of community.  

It is a space where strangers become friends, sharing in the collective awe and wonder that unfolds before their eyes.

Laughter, gasps of amazement, and applause fill the air, creating a bond that transcends age, culture, and background.

In an age where entertainment options seem endless, The Circus stands tall as one of the few remaining art forms that can truly bring the whole family together.  

From the youngest to the oldest, everyone can find something to marvel at within the vibrant world of the circus.

So, mark your calendars and gather your loved ones for an evening of pure enchantment.  

The Circus promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe and with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Step inside the magical world of the circus, where dreams come alive, and the extraordinary becomes reality.

WHAT: Weber Bros Circus

WHERE: Opposite The Whitsunday Plaza, Cannonvale

WHEN:  August 24 – September 3 2023

Weekday shows at 7.30pm

Saturday August 26  and September 2 at 1pm and 7.30pm

Sunday August 27 at 1pm and 4pm

Sunday September 3 at 11am

TICKETS: 0452 00 22 00

ONLINE: www.iticket.com.au

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