We will all be ‘Livin’ on a Prayer’ next weekend, with one of the best Bon Jovi tribute acts gracing the Airlie Beach Hotel stage for one massive show.

Front man Ben, better known as Ben Jovi, has been leading the way with the Bon Jovi Forever show for years, with powerful and palpable prowess and dedication to the show and the performance.

Full of intimate and personal audience interaction, and backed by quality musicians, this is not a show to miss, full of all the charm of the classic legend.

Of course, we ‘Never say Goodbye’ to these legends, so ‘This Ain’t a Love Song’ and you’ll see us in the crowd at Airlie Beach Hotel, hitting every note, and keeping up with the ‘Bad Medicine’.

Satisfying every fan, the Bon Jovi Forever show has been featured on national TV, pumping the tunes across Australia, with true authenticity, passion, and high energy thrills and spills.

Nothing will be missed, with both cult classics and obscure tracks being unearthed on the Airlie Beach stage.

‘Make a Memory’ at the Airlie Beach Hotel with this show, and ‘Runaway’ with the sweet harmonies of Ben Jovi and the Bon Jovi Forever Show.

WHAT: The Australian Bon Jovi Show: Bon Jovi Forever

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday, July 29, 2pm to 5.30pm

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Ben Jovi of the Bon Jovi Forever Show embodies the classic rock legend with true authenticity

Perfect for diehard and causal fans, this performance will cruise on a Saturday afternoon. Photos supplied

The classic legend of Leonard Cohen is reimagined in this star-studded musical biographical cabaret, coming to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) this month.

Be transformed and transfixed by this fantastic and sensational seven-piece band, starring the magnificent Jonathan Anstock as Leonard Cohen himself.

Embodying the very iconic songs that pushed him into forever stardom and showcasing Leonard’s infamous life, ‘The Spirit of Leonard Cohen’ performance is intimately authentic.

Exploring the man behind ‘Hallelujah’, Jonathan and his band will travel through Leonard’s past, his poetry, song writing, spiritual journey, political motivations, depression, and the eventual passion and peace.

With beautiful renditions of Cohen’s classic ‘Suzanne’, ‘So Long Marianne’ and ‘Bird On A Wire’, Jonathan and his band will leave audiences wanting more.

Leonard Cohen rose to stardom in the 60s and 70s, with early success of his song ‘Suzanne’.

His effervescent harmonies lend themselves to the themes of faith, mortality, isolation, depression, betrayal, redemption, social and political conflict, love, regret, and loss, which permeates through his numerous tracks.

Leonard passed away in 2016, and in 2023, Rolling Stone awarded him 103rd place in their ‘200 Greatest Singers of All Time’.

WHAT: The Spirit of Leonard Cohen

WHERE: The Proserpine Entertainment Centre

WHEN: Friday, July 28 from 7pm

TICKETS: proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

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As part of the upcoming Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival, local artists are invited to create new artwork to submit into the festival’s art exhibition which will take place at a special location for the duration of the event.

Following the broader festival theme of ‘Whales’, entrants are tasked with creating an artwork with the premise: ‘The Grandeur Of Humpback Whales’.

“Many whales are born in the quiet bays of the Whitsundays,” said organiser Leigh Skead.

“Join in the fun and create your interpretation of the theme - your art can be or include the reef, the Whitsundays, and/or the environment of the whales above or below sea level.”    

An initiative of Creative Connections Whitsunday (CCW), the exhibition will take place at Beach Plaza on the Airlie Beach Esplanade for the duration of the festival – August 3-6.

Every type of artist is invited to submit their work, from amateur to abstract, and all interpretations of the theme are encouraged to create a colourful and exciting exhibition.

Entries need to be delivered to Beach Plaza on Wednesday, August 2.

Entry forms are due in on Wednesday, July 26 and are available from CreativeConnectionsWhitsunday.com.

Members of Creative Connections will pay an entry fee of $5 per artwork and non-members will need to pay $10.

It’s a People’s Choice competition which means that submissions will be judged by attendees.

Locals are encouraged to get involved and come along to the exhibition to cast their vote.

The Art Exhibition is proudly sponsored by PRD Realty – Whitsunday, Smart Arts, and Coral Sea Marina.

WHAT: Community Art Exhibition

WHERE: Beach Plaza, Airlie Beach Esplanade

WHEN: August 3-6

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The newest Barbie film, headlined by Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, has been kept tightly under wraps, meaning the intrigue and wonder is only building for audiences.

What we do know:

It is clear that Barbieland is not quite as perfect as Barbie believes, when her permanently arched feet, crafted for her heels, fall flat, and she is cast out of Barbieland and travels to the human world, exploring the idea that true perfection can only be discovered within.

With her is Ken, her companion who unwittingly joins her adventures into the human world.

Directed by Greta Gerwig, known for her stunning filmography of 2017 film ‘Lady Bird’, the film is set to turn heads with its satirical nonsense and true heart.

Complete with poignant undertones of social commentary, the importance of confidence, and social connections, the film also tackles many of the controversies that are associated with the Barbie Mattel brand.

One such controversary is the issue of diversity, with the film’s director Greta deciding to portray every single Barbie, including Diplomat Barbie, Author Barbie, Lawyer Barbie, and Doctor Barbie, plus so many more.

Paired with the incredible variety of Barbie is the range of Kens, which include Cowboy Ken, Country Ken, Stereotypical Ken – who acts like Margot Robbie’s Barbie right hand man, played by Ryan Gosling – and even a brief doll created, Allan, Ken’s buddy.

Playing on ideas of male representation and storytelling, not much has been shared about the roles of the Kens, with their posters containing the same line: “He’s just another Ken.”

Set with the perfectly pink backdrop that rings true to childhood memories, including the bedroom to pool slide, the film had an absolutely stunning all-star cast, including the likes of Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, Simu Liu, Kate McKinnon, Hari Nef, America Ferrera, Emma Mackey, Michael Cera, Helen Mirren and Dua Lipa, plus so many more that it’s hard to count.

Barbie is in Bowen Cinema Saturday July 22.

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Margot Robbie plays the Stereotypical Barbie, who is cast out of Barbieland

The Barbie film portraying a range of Barbies, including Mermaid Barbie and Sailor Barbie. Photos supplied

Calling all authors, this is the event for you!

Taking you through the world of self-publishing, publishing consultant 852 Press are hosting the ‘Self-Publishing Basics’ workshop.

852 Press Director Dr Julia Evans and author of nine books, Richard Evans, will go through all the ins and outs of the self-publishing world, covering all aspects of the pathway.

Get the overview of the entire process including perfecting your manuscript and discovering distribution channels.

Learn the values of having a captivating cover and book design, with industry trends and top tips, what visually appeals to readers, and how to stand out on the shelf.

Be informed on pricing strategies and be sure to price your work within the market correctly, both nationally and internationally.

And don’t worry, Julia and Richard will go over tax requirements and other financial matters and costs that pop up during the self-publishing journey as well.

And finally, Julia and Richard will detail invaluable marketing techniques on how to share your work with wider audiences, with latest marketing trends and opportunities that are attracting keen readers, as well as techniques to elevate visibility.

This workshop is completely free for aspiring authors, and a great opportunity to learn from industry professionals and receive untapped industry knowledge.

WHAT: Self-Publishing Basics Workshop

WHERE: Cannonvale Library, Whitsunday Plaza

WHEN: Friday August 4, from 9.30am to 11.30am

REGISTRATION: Call the Cannonvale Library Branch, on 07 4846 9400, to reserve a seat

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Friday 14 July

Winter Orchid Show

Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm and Saturday, 8:00am to 3:00pm

Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc Presents the Winter Orchid Show. Orchids, pots, potting mediums and tags for sale, orchid culture demonstrations, raffles and Devonshire morning and afternoon teas. $2 coin donation.

Sporting Wheelies Hall

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

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

Wake House Australia

Standup Comedy - Kel Balnaves - Have A Crack

Friday, 8:00pm

Kick your weekend off with award winning standup comedy in a ripper of a pub. Kel Balnaves is heading up to QLD with a new standup show and he’s got some fantastic local support. Following a 15,000km tour of regional Australia, Kel’s back with his latest show and it’s a cracker! A show about how to steal a car and other confidence building skills. Looking for punchy, relatable, award winning Aussie standup? Have a crack at this one.

Ambassador Hotel

Brooke Schubert - ‘Burn Like Summer’ Tour

Friday, 8:00pm

Brooke Schubert returns to her CQ roots by bringing her ‘Burn Like Summer’ tour to town this July. Classed as one of Australia’s best live vocalists, celebrate the release of her new song ‘Burn Like Summer’ with her full touring band. Gather your friends and get your dancing shoes ready, you don’t want to miss this!

Seabreeze Hotel

Metal Hits McGuires

Friday, 8:00pm

Suitable presents its debut demonstration at McGuire's with Townsville local heavy weights Native Tongue, presenting punishing riffs, blistering vocals and pulse-pounding breakdowns. This demonstration marks the release of their latest single, 'Thousand-Eyes Restrict' their most mind melting release to date. Joined by Headwreck, Same Pains and Arcade Stories.

McGuires Hotel

Saturday 15 July

Wisely Wine and Food Day 2023

Saturday, 10:30am to 5:00pm

It's time to wine and dine, Mackay! Brought to you by the Mackay Festival of Arts, the ever-popular Wisely Wine and Food Day is back for another year at Queens Park. This free, family friendly event is a favourite among locals and visitors alike, celebrating an array of delicious cuisines, local produce, tasty brews and, of course, great music. Curb your hunger cravings with an abundance of local food delights from festival food trucks, cultural flavours, local restaurant pop-ups and gourmet bites. Complimented by an ample variety of craft beers, boutique wines and ciders available from our local pop-up bars, there will be something there to tantalise everyone’s tastebuds.

Queens Park

8 Ball Aitken Live

Saturday, 10:30am to 5:00pm

8 Ball Aitken is bringing his rockin' swamp-blues and slide-guitar show to the Metropolitan Hotel, Mackay on Saturday July 15. Jessy Lynch is special guest. Tickets are on sale now from Oztix.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Sunday 16 July

Kids Day Out at the Seabreeze Hotel

Sunday, 12:00pm

Mark your calendars for a fantastic family day at the Seabreeze Hotel! Join in for a fun-filled event that promises enjoyment for everyone. Let your little ones’ imaginations soar with exciting face painting sessions throughout the day. Get up close and personal with adorable animals at the petting zoo, creating unforgettable memories for the whole family. Enjoy a special $10 kids meal deal, ensuring your little adventurers are fuelled up for the day’s excitement. And to top it all off, groove to the lively tunes of the Paul Moleta band from 2pm to 6pm, providing the perfect soundtrack for a memorable afternoon. Don’t miss out on this incredible family day at the Seabreeze Hotel!

Seabreeze Hotel

Monday 17 July

DBCT Kids' Theatre Season - Possum Magic

Monday, 6:00pm and Tuesday, 9.30am and 11.30am (relaxed session)

Mem Fox and Julie Vivas’ beloved picture book ‘Possum Magic’ has enchanted children for decades and Monkey Baa Theatre Company brings the paper and ink to life on stage once again! Using a clever, nuanced palette of live action, stage magic, an original soundscape, elements of puppetry and projected animation, Monkey Baa’s award-winning creative team have translated the whimsical world of the book to a live experience for audiences 3–8 years (and their families).

MECC

Tuesday 18 July

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 co-operative 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 19 July

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 20 July

Chair Yoga in North Mackay

Every Thursday, 2:00pm

Using a chair for support (either sitting or standing) Chair Yoga is a practice of gentle movement, combined with mindful breathing & meditation. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to focus on a gentle, nurturing practice. Chair Yoga can improve your balance, flexibility, concentration & strength, while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain. Bookings are essential. Call or text your full name to 0434 940 300 or message the Wellness With Deb Facebook page.

Palmview Village Community Centre, via Oasis Drive / Bradford St.

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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The latest report card looking at the region’s waterway health was released earlier this week by the Mackay-Whitsunday-Isaac Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership.

The report card shows a consistent range of scores from B to D across the region, with only two grade changes from the previous reporting year.

However, Chair of the Partnership, Charlie Morgan, said the results highlighted where more information was needed; where achievements could be celebrated; and where more work could be done.

“From rivers to reef - when it comes to waterway health, it is critical that we have regular data and information to make informed decisions and good choices as a community,” Ms Morgan said.

“What this year’s information shows us is that there is an opportunity to fill some key data gaps – for example, by focusing on fish.

“There are currently no monitoring programs for estuarine fish in our region, and we know how much fish mean to those of us living in the Mackay, Whitsunday, and Isaac regions! To have more active monitoring would be valuable to our communities.”

She said one good news story that had emerged was seagrass in the Southern Inshore Marine Zone, a known dugong habitat.

“Seagrass improved in this zone from Moderate to Good, despite the overall zone grade remaining the same,” she said.

“We know this area is an important one for dugong feeding trails and seagrass meadows, so this is a significant and positive result.

“We would like to thank Daly Bay, one of our founding Partners, for investing in data collection in the Southern Inshore Marine Zone, which previously was a missing piece of the waterway health puzzle.”

Ms Morgan said it was important to note that recent monitoring of litter hot spots in Airlie Beach had identified the ‘Top 10’ culprits for rubbish flowing to the Great Barrier Reef.

“We monitored litter with our partner, Tangaroa Blue, and the number one litter item found heading into our waterways was cigarette butts,” she said.

Ms Morgan added that, importantly, the release of the latest Report Card provided a chance to reflect on waterway health and its value.

“The Mackay Whitsunday and Isaac regions are communities rich in natural beauty and reliant on our waterways, so the more we focus on this information to plan for the future, the better,” she said.

Minister for the Environment and the Great Barrier Reef, Leanne Linard, commended the Partnership on the release of their 2022 Report Card.

“It’s wonderful to see the collaboration across government, industry and community, working together to better understand and protect the health of local waterways,” Ms Linard said.

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Mackay-Whitsunday-Isaac Healthy Rivers to Reef Partnership Chair, Charlie Morgan

Agribusinesses and entrepreneurs in the Mackay and Whitsunday area will soon have the opportunity to access a training program designed to provide them with comprehensive support and practical training to succeed in the business world.  

Delivered by TAFE Queensland in partnership with the TNQ Drought Hub and supported by Reef Catchments NRM, the training will combine online content with face-to-face workshops and individual mentoring sessions.

TNQ Drought Hub Program Lead Jane Oorschot said the training had been designed to meet the growing demand for upskilling small businesses and enterprise skills in the agricultural sector, with enrolments now open for the pilot intake which will commence July 24.

“The selection of Mackay as the pilot program was driven by the specific need to deliver such upskilling in regional Queensland,” said Dr Oorschot.

“This training is a great opportunity for the agricultural sector and associated industries to increase their knowledge in the building of a business or exploring opportunities for diversification.

“In the past, the training has only been offered in Brisbane which meant participants were required to travel.”

“To combat this, we have worked with our key partners to develop a hybrid program that combines online content delivery with three face-to-face workshops in Mackay, facilitated by a mentor with experience in the agricultural sector.”

Reef Catchments Program Manager Bernie Cockayne said the training offers the opportunity to enhance and boost business profitability for participants.

“From the outset, we have worked with the TNQ Drought Hub to identify a range of practical actions that will support our agricultural sector,” said Mr Cockayne.

“Through a comprehensive mentoring program, participants will benefit from personalised one-on-one sessions and engaging group workshops. This approach ensures that what participants will learn will directly apply to their unique business challenges, rather than hypothetical situations.  

“As the industry faces mounting costs and evolving market demands, this program equips participants with practical strategies to ensure business in the Mackay and Whitsunday region can thrive.”

Dr Oorschot said TNQ Drought Hub will evaluate the results of the pilot program to determine if they will replicate the offering in other key regional areas.

“Our primary objective at TNQ Drought Hub is to foster the growth and skill development of individuals in regional and rural areas,” said Dr Oorschot.

“This particular initiative is one among several that we have undertaken to equip those in the agricultural sector with the tools and knowledge to thrive.

“We’re looking forward to seeing this come to life in July and we hope to replicate this in other key regional areas to ensure such knowledge and upskilling is available and accessible where it is needed most.”

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Farming for the Future Forum

It's the biggest free, all-ages day of the Mackay region social calendar.

With seven high profile acts, about 30 food vendors, 16 market stalls, dance performances and family amusements, there will be something for everyone at the Wisely Wine and Food Day.

Headlined by ARIA Song of the Year winner Conrad Sewell, the BB Print main stage will feature a stella line-up of bands and singers.

The roster will include rock/reggae band Silky Fuzz, party band The Feels, high-energy trio G Force Music, indie pop songstress KARLOU (Karrie Hayward), blues and folk artist Alex Kosenko and smooth songstress Ruby Sue.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to have a performer of a calibre of Conrad Sewell headlining the event.

“Conrad Sewell has opened arenas around the world for the likes of Ed Sheeran and Maroon 5, and his songs are regular chart toppers,” Mayor Williamson said.

“His soulful vocals will be a perfect fit for the relaxed atmosphere of the Wisely Wine and Food Day,” he said.

Mayor Williamson said festival goers would likely notice a few changes to the layout on the day.

“The things that people want every year are great views of the main stage, room to move and manageable lines for food and drink,” he said.

“Obviously, when you are talking tens of thousands of people, nothing is easy, but this year the festival's team have more than 30 food vendors signed up to attend and have changed the event layout to provide more room for seating and better views of the stages.

“There will also be more shade, plenty of amusements for the kids, a paint and sip running multiple sessions throughout the day and the amazing Fierce Creative Dance Stage filled with some wonderful dance demonstrations.”

Festivals and Events Coordinator Sarah Porter said for those wanting to take their experience to the next level, the Mingle Marquee was the place to be.

“Mingle Events Co have created a VIP area for us at the event which will be comfortable, stylish and gourmet,” Ms Porter said.

“The area will have exclusive views of the main stage and private access to a delicious spread of delicacies by the catering team at Social, Fresh and Local,” she said.

“There’s also a private bar; lots of chic seating options, like luxury lounges; complimentary touch ups at the beauty station and roving appetisers.

“Tickets for the VIP area are close to being exhausted, so I'd advise getting in quickly to avoid disappointment.”

Ms Porter had a few other tips to ensure attendees had the best day.

“While shade umbrellas and gazebos aren’t allowed into the venue, we would definitely recommend bringing hats, sunscreen and maybe a bit of mosquito spray for late in the afternoon,” she said.

“You can also bring picnic blankets and chairs, but please be mindful of those around you. We are also allowing people to bring in their own food that is not in commercial packaging.”

For more information on Wisely Wine and Food Day and updates ahead of the day, make sure you follow Mackay Festivals on Facebook or head to themecc.com.au/festivals

While last minute changes can occur, the current stage line-up is as follows:

BB Print Main Stage

● 11am - Ruby Sue

● 11.55am - Alex Kosenko

● 12.50pm - Karlou

● 1.45pm - G-Force

● 2.40pm - The Feels

● 3.35pm - Silky Fuzz

● 4.40pm - Conrad Sewell

Fierce Creative Dance Stage

● 11.45am - Embellish Bellydance Mackay

● 12.40am - Claddagh School of Irish Dance

● 1.35pm - Dance Express

● 2.30pm - Dance Fit with Elena

● 3.25pm - Dance Express

● 4.25pm - Mackay Sugar City Rock n Roll

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Wisely Wine and Food Day 2022

Headline act Conrad Sewell

The sun set over Cape Hillsborough as Busby Marou took to the beachfront stage in front of a sold-out crowd two nights in a row.

Taking place between two tidal movements, Queensland Music Trails brought the central Queensland icons to Cape Hillsborough where attendees were the first to hear their new record, Blood Red, live in its entirety, with other fan favourites following.

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In the fast-moving, cyber-driven, social media-controlled world of influencers, hackers and gurus of all types, there are plenty of experts to tell you what to do, what not to do, why you’re a failure and how you can be better.

Whether it’s to do with your career, your looks, your relationships or your health, there is an expert for every scenario and advice for every occasion.

A lot of the advice is conflicting: eat meat/don’t eat meat, set the alarm for 4am and get cracking/allow your body the sleep it needs and avoid alarms …it’s a world where anyone with a phone camera and a social media account can suddenly be an expert in whatever they choose.

So take what you see and hear with a grain of salt.

However, full disclosure, I can’t help absorbing some of the noise. I watch and listen to podcasts and videos in the worlds of politics (check out Robert F Kennedy Jr), motivation (Dave Goggins tells it how it is pretty brutally) and health and fitness.

The health and fitness arena is packed with “experts” fighting for attention, producing short grabs that promise to deliver “the five most important things to prevent cancer” or “the 10 foods to avoid if you want to lose weight”.

I’m not here to promote or validate anyone but, in my view, some have more cred than others.

I quite like a bloke called Gary Brecka, described as a human biologist and functional medicine expert. Apparently he’s also a “bio-hacker” but I’ve got no idea what that is and he nearly lost me when I heard that.

Anyway, I stuck with him and one of the things he says is that “ageing is the aggressive pursuit of comfort”. He says that as we get older we should not be putting our feet up, taking it easy while we sit in front of the TV indulging in some tasty treats like pastries or cake washed down with a can of coke.

Rather, he says, we should be experiencing some discomfort … exercising, denying ourselves the pleasure of a belly full of food from the moment we wake up until the moment we go to bed, having cold baths and showers (that’s the tough one).

His point is that we should not sit back and relax and “aggressively pursue comfort” if we want to stay healthy and be at our best as the years pass.

I feel that what he says can equally be applied to business and definitely the business of selling real estate.

Once you sit back and relax in business and in real estate sales, your days are numbered. You start going backwards. You start to look old-fashioned and behind the times.

The pursuit of comfort means you are not pushing the boundaries and actively looking for the best way to present a property, not working the phones to re-connect with buyers you have come across who might be interested, not taking the time to brief the photographer about the key shots to present the property, not finding something different to set the property apart from the crowd.

If you are relaxed and comfortable you are complacent and you’re not finding innovative ways to be better and that’s not good for sellers.

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We were talking about this a while back on the radio after learning that Matthew McConaughey and his wife allowed their son to join Instagram for his 15th birthday. I respect that.

Having kids now in double digit age and soon to be negotiating teenage years, the pressure will be coming my way, although it probably already is.  

The line that we’ve heard and I’m sure a lot of other parents have heard is “My fiend (insert name here) already has (insert app/technology here)”. And you can fill those gaps with iPhone, iPad, YouTube account, Facebook, Insta… the list goes on.

Already my kids are talking with friends through games and technology like Zoom calls while playing games. What I like about that is I can hear what’s being said by the other kids, and more importantly by my own. For now, the danger of a stranger becoming involved is minimal. The messaging by typing worries me more, and we’ve had lots of conversations about that, how 12-year-old Johnny could actually be 53-year-old Peter who should be in jail.

You don’t want your kids being last to the party, but at the same time, you want to be making sure they’re smart enough to work through what’s going on once messages start coming in.

Really, it’s other people that I’m more concerned about. If my kids say or do something then I can do something about that, a stern talking to, grounding, changing the wifi password… but other people’s kids, that’s a different story.

I’m still not sure when I’ll be allowing these apps into my kids’ lives, but when it happens, I’ll be monitoring what’s said and sent to them, and what they’re saying.  

Scotty

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Prepare your costumes, Mackay, for Mack PopCon is back in 2023.

This year’s event is shaping up to be another great convention full of pop culture, cosplay, celebrity guests and entertainment.

President Matthew Perna said there’ll be something for everyone, with cosplay workshops and competitions, games, virtual reality, exhibitors and market stalls, a photo booth and panel discussions.

“There’s a lot more to pop culture than just dressing up,” he said.

Special guests include Comic book artist Jesse Dracman of Freek Productions, cosplay guests NIX_COSPLAY and Slightly Villainous, and actors Clayton Watson from The Matrix and Lincoln Lewis from Home and Away.

Celebrity cars have also become a staple of Mack PopCon, with KITT from Knight Rider and Tow Mater from Cars on display waiting to take a photo with you.

The family-friendly event comes at a family-friendly cost, with tickets available online or at the door for $5 and children 9 and under free.

“We rely on a lot of community support to fund getting the guests and that sort of stuff,” said Mr Perna.

“The support this year has been really good, from Council and local businesses,” added Funding Coordinator Kristy Harper.

The convention is marked on the calendars of pop culture fans throughout the region as one of few platforms to network, but the Mack PopCon team hopes to grow these opportunities in the future.

“The pop culture community in Mackay is definitely there, but it’s very quiet,” said Mr Perna.

“This gives them the opportunity to get along to an event, meet others and hopefully make some friendships.”

Doors will open at 9:00am for people with sensory needs and disabilities, with general admission open from 10:00am.

“We want the whole community to be able to enjoy it,” Mr Perna said.

Visit www.mackpopcon.org.au to find more information about the cosplay competition, volunteering, tickets and guests.

WHAT: Mack PopCon 2023

WHEN: Saturday, July 22 from 9:00am to 4:00pm

WHERE: Mackay Showgrounds

TICKETS: www.mackpopcon.org.au

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Mack PopCon organisers held a cosplay promotion at Caneland Central recently. Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

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Whether you’re an amateur cultivator or an orchid expert, the Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc invites you to the annual Winter Orchid Show.

Orchids will be available for sale as well as pots, potting mediums, tags and more accessories.

Members of the Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc will present orchid culture demonstrations and be available to answer any questions and offer any advice.

Raffles will be on offer as well as Devonshire morning and afternoon teas.

It’s all happening at the Sporting Wheelies Hall on Bridge Road today, Friday, July 14 and Saturday, July 15 from 8:00am both days.

For more information, email mdos.secretary@gmail.com, contact President Dennis Farlow on 0458 043 132 or visit Mackay and District Orchids Inc on Facebook.

WHAT: Winter Orchid Show

WHEN: Friday July 14 from 8:00am to 4:00pm and Saturday July 15 from 8:00am to 3:00pm

WHERE: Sporting Wheelies Hall, 78 Bridge Road, Mackay

TICKETS: $2 coin donation

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Photo supplied: Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc

Mackay Senior Citizens recently celebrated their 50th anniversary with a luncheon at Souths Leagues Club.

Members and guests gathered to enjoy the celebrations in a lovely afternoon enjoyed by all.

Vi McFadzen, who is the oldest Life Member Mackay Senior Citizens, had the honours of cutting the anniversary cake alongside President Charlie Symons.

Entertainment was supplied by Sylvia Heideman, Alan Mackenzie, and Dennis and Faye Macrae.

Celebrations also extended to the recent 50th Anniversary Ball, held at the Senior Citizens Hall.

Life Member Vi McFadzen and President Charlie Symons cut the anniversary cake

Herman Mayer, Jan Strachan, Ted and Lyn Coburn, Lynn and John Bianchi, Pam Louis, and Wayne and Shirley Davidson enjoying themselves at the recent 50th Anniversary Ball held at the Senior Citizens Hall. Photos supplied: Lyn Coburn

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