Now is the time to check out the best of the best of motorsport and racing cars at the 2023 Whitsunday Horsepower Day this weekend, with all funds funnelled back into local mental health organisations.

Not afraid of thrills and spills, the crew behind the Monster Energy Race Car will be on the scene, along with high performance cars, corporate displays, and a fantastic display of might from the Queensland Police, Fire and Ambulance Services.

“This event is an exhibit of motorsport in all forms,” said committee member of Horsepower Heroes Victor Pozzoli.

“We have classic, modern, track cars and even crazy modified trucks, plus the helicopter doing adventure flights.”

Even V8 Supercar legend Cam Waters will be on the ground, sharing his love for the sport, as well as Nick Lange from the TA2 Racing Australia Muscle Car series.

With the crew of Blokesworld, beloved lifestyle TV show exploring all things bloke, filming all day, the event will be broadcast on TV across the nation.

Acting as a fundraiser for Horsepower Heroes Whitsunday, all funds raised will go towards community organisations, such as Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network and Kick On.

“We will have a mental health pit bay too, with all the mental health organisations in the area set up like a pit lane,” said Victor.

“We’re playing on the race theme and promoting the different organisations.”

WHAT: Whitsunday Horsepower Day

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club

WHEN: Saturday, July 15, 9.30am – 5pm

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Expect to see the very best of motorsport and racing cars at the Whitsunday Horsepower Day this Saturday. Photo supplied

Our trusty hero Indiana Jones is back in the fifth and final instalment of the franchise.

Portrayed by Harrison Ford, this newest film is reminiscent of classic Indiana Jones films, bringing high intensity action, thrills, and adventure to the big screen.

The film begins back in the end stages of World War 2, with a younger Jones racing through a train, weaving between Nazi officers, to recover a priceless and valuable artefact, and keep it out of the hands of the dreaded Nazis.

This digitally de-aged Jones retains all the charisma and charm of the classic Jones, setting up the film for its high stakes and endearing love.

Of course, this new artefact happens to be one half of the Archimedes’ dial, an ancient device that is believed to be able to predict future disaster.

An artefact long forgotten, the film cuts to the 1960s, with Jones a grumpy professor whose students no longer appreciate his reputation or esteem.

That is until his goddaughter Helena strolls into his classroom, her enemies in tow, dragging Jones out of semi-retirement to find the second half of the Archimedes’ Dial.

One such enemy is an ex-Nazi, Jurgen Voller.

Since the end of World War 2 and initially meeting Jones as he escaped with the half of the dial, Voller has become an esteemed scientist in the United States space program, however he sets out to retrieve the two pieces of the dial and travel back in time.

He ultimately wants to change history, wherein Germany is not defeated by the Axis and the German dream was revealed.

This action-packed story does not stop, bringing high energy and fantastic CGI adventure and fun.

With touchingly intimate reunions of fan favourites and throw backs to classic hero-treasure hunter stories.

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Harrison Ford returns for the fifth and final instalment of the Indiana Jones franchise

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The third Tiny Homes Project Fundraiser was a huge success last weekend with over 160 people attending a fun and frivolous event held at the Bali Hut on the Whitsunday Sailing Club lawns.

After a week of wild weather, the clouds parted and it was a cool and starry night, perfect for dancing and merriment.

An impressive $32,000 was raised on the evening, and all funds will be put directly into the Tiny Homes Project which is funding four homes for homeless women over 55 in the Whitsundays.

The total project will cost around $700,000 and the team of fundraisers are almost halfway to their target amount.

Whitsunday Regional Council has donated a plot of land in Proserpine and final plans are being put into the design of the homes, with construction expected to start before the end of the year.

The Let’s Do Latin Fundraiser was the biggest money raiser of all events so far and organiser, Sandy Clarke said she was thrilled to be part of another successful night.

“It was the most beautiful night and everyone who attended were just such lovely, giving people,” she said.

The evening kicked-off with an auction which saw over a dozen items up for grabs.

This was followed by raffle before the evening’s entertainment began.

One of Australia’s top 10 Burlesque Dancers, Kelly Ann Doll, wowed the crowd with an evocative, playful, and sexy performance that got the party started.

Afterwards Latin Madness put on a performance and then taught eager participants the basics of Latin dancing.

This got the dance floor packed, and the evening progressed into a party atmosphere with Viva and her Fiesta Band rocking out to classic tracks that everyone enjoyed.

Kandice Adlington won the Best Dressed Female and Paul Skinner won Best Dressed Male.

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Organisers Sandy Clarke and Fiona Donnellan. Photo credit: Rachael Smith and Bronte Hodge

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A Week of Gin Tastings, Neon Art, Craft (Brews) And Cultural Delights

The Mackay Festival of Arts is now in full swing, and this week’s offerings include gin tastings, the DBI Literary Dinner, the Mackay Art Studio Trail, sunset sessions and craft beer.

This Saturday, July 8, from 6pm, there will be a gin tasting night at the Seabreeze Hotel featuring a four-course meal paired with hand selected, award-winning gins.

Also on Saturday night, the Creative Art Studio is offering a Neon Night Sip and Paint session from 6pm to 8pm. Painters will be painting in the dark under UV to bring their neon artworks to life.

Mayor Greg Williamson encouraged festival goers to experience the Mackay Art Studio Trail.

“This is an amazing initiative that is a collaboration between dozens of local artists to open their studios to the public and provide tremendous workshops and experiences,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Not only can you visit artists in their studios, and see their works and learn about their processes, but there are also some amazing learning opportunities,” he said.

“For example, next Wednesday (July 12), there are beginners’ pottery lessons, and then on Thursday (July 13) there are tie dying workshops.”

For a full list of artists’ open studios, workshops and exhibitions in the program, head to www.artistsconnectinc.au.

Mayor Williamson said there was also still time to enjoy the Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub in the Civic Precinct.

“The action-packed circus show Le Coup and the hilarious High Tea with Booff are still showing until this Sunday (July 9),” he said.

“Which also means there’s still time to try Red Dog Brewery’s Mackay Festival Hub Lager, which was a recipe they created especially for the Festival Hub that you can only get at this event.”

The following events, shows and activities are also on offer during the second week of the Mackay Festival of Arts:

• DBI Literary Dinner at the MECC on Friday, July 14  Featuring a three-course meal, live music and entertainment by Annabel Crabb

• Friday Sun.set Sessions at the Wake House Enjoy different acoustic musicians every Friday from 5pm to 9pm

• Live music at Red Dog Brewery Enjoy pizza, local craft brews and live music at Red Dog Brewery on Fridays and Saturdays

• July 6 to 8 and 13 to 15 – Kucom Theatre presents Perfect Wedding A bridegroom wakes on his wedding morning in his own bridal suite, with his bride-to-be about to arrive any moment, and finds a strange girl in bed beside him. Hilarity ensues.

• Get ready for the Wisely Wine and Food Day At Queens Park on July 15 and featuring amazing acts from around Australia.

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Gin tasting at the Seabreeze Hotel

The hilarious High Tea with Booff runs until July 9 and is an intimate show for groups of just 10 people

Neon Night Paint and Sip session with the Creative Art Studio

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Friday 7 July

Between the Tides with Busby Marou

Friday and Saturday, 4:00pm to 10:00pm

Between the Tides is set along the picturesque coastline of Cape Hillsborough, a mere 40 minutes north of Mackay. In a world-first concert experience, national treasures, Busby Marou will host an intimate performance on the beach, inviting fans to an exclusive preview of their brand new album, 'Blood Red'.

Cape Hillsborough National Park

Free Public Art Walk

Friday, 4:30pm to 5:30pm

Hosted by Artspace Mackay Public Art Officer Jennifer Dalton-Smith, this free city art walk for all ages begins at Artspace Mackay and takes you through the city centre. Along the way, participants will learn about Mackay’s iconic public art installations, and the local, and internationally acclaimed artists who created them. Whether you’re an artist, art lover, local or visitor to our lovely riverside city, you’ll find this late afternoon public art walk a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Bring friends, family members, or come by yourself - wear a hat, comfortable shoes, bring a bottle of water, and arrive promptly to Artspace Mackay as the group will depart on time.

Artspace Mackay

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

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

Wake House Australia

Film & Arts Mackay July Film Night: OLGA

Friday, 7:30pm

OLGA is the story of a young female Ukrainian gymnast, played by real-life former Ukrainian national team member Anastasia Budiashkina, who is exiled from her homeland to chase her Olympic dreams.

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

Saturday 8 July

PCYC Mackay Open Day

Saturday, 9:00am to 12:00pm

Celebrate PCYC Mackay’s 75th birthday with a FREE open day. Free events and activities for the whole family! Lucky door prizes and a draw to win a yearly gym membership. Bring your bike or scooter or borrow one as they open up the bike track. Try the beer goggles and check out the braking the cycle program. Patrick Thaiday will be running a dance workshop at 11.30am. Free sausage sizzle. Canteen will be open for snacks and drinks.

Mackay PCYC

The Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling

Saturday, 12:00pm

Join a free outdoor community concert held at the Bluewater Quay. Pipe bands, highland dancers, Piping MaD Rock band, Kathleen Campbell, Hullabaloo and much more. Starts at 12pm, massed bands will march across the Forgan Bridge at 2pm, with entertainment continuing on the River Stage until dusk. Food vendors will be on site including haggis pies, scotch pies, square sausage and other Scottish biadh. Bring a fold up chair or picnic blanket and enjoy an afternoon of Scottish music, song and dance.

Bluewater Quay

Powerhouse X

Saturday, 4:00pm to 10:00pm

Powerhouse Fight Series will be delivering their tenth event on July 8. This is a huge milestone and they have absolutely stacked the card to show their appreciation for all the support everyone has shown over the past 10 events. Tickets will sell even faster than usual so you know what to do! Get in early.

Mackay Showgrounds

Inside Lane Single Launch

Saturday, 5:00pm

Following the release of their debut single ‘Pass the Time’, local indie rockers Inside Lane are putting on a show to celebrate and inviting Alessandro along on opening duties.

Wake House Australia

Gin Tasting Night

Saturday, 6:00pm

Join for a GIN-tastic night at Seabreeze Hotel on Saturday 8th July from 6pm. Indulge in a delectable four-course meal perfectly paired with hand-selected award-winning gins from Martin Miller's, The Botanist, and Finsbury.

Seabreeze Hotel

Sunday 9 July

Sunday Live Music

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

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

Seabreeze Hotel

Wednesday 12 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 13 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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Directed by Kathryn Evans

A Mackay Festival Fringe event by Kucom Theatre

Kucom Theatre does not have a house curtain, so when the audience enters the auditorium, immediately one spies a bed on the stage. It’s a hotel room. A bridal suite. A pillow is on the floor next to the bed. A pair of women’s shoes, a man’s shirt…. a sock… his pants. Hello, you think, what’s all this then? The morning after the night before?

It most certainly is.

Two bodies in the bed start to stir…. a man sits up, looking dishevelled and confused, he sees the outline of a woman in bed beside him. She sits up, she is beautiful…. And she is also not his fiancé!

On his wedding day, Bill the Groom (Zac Trounson) enlists the help of his Best Man, Tom (Michael Brennan) to get this stunning stranger (Asta Ryan), dressed and out of the bridal suite bathroom before his Bride, Rachel (Lani Seaton) arrives. Cue the Chambermaid, Julie (Carolyn Roche), and 43 cases of mistaken identity later, by the time the Mother of the Bride, Daphne (Kristyn Everett) arrives all hell has broken loose.

With his natural delivery, frenetic energy, his masterful understanding of text and comic timing, Trounson’s performance is pure gold. He juggles the ‘warp-speed back-and-forth dialogue’ Perfect Wedding is known for around the world with ease, supported by the experienced and effortless performances of Roche and Everett.

It was a pleasant surprise to see three new faces with Perfect Wedding being the first performances for Brennan, Ryan and Seaton. Guided by the firm hand of director Kathryn Evans, these three newbies show much potential, with Brennan in particular, finding his groove as his character explodes across the stage.

With another impressively simple but effective set design by John Irvine, with a partial brick wall giving the illusion of two rooms without compromising sight lines, Kucom Theatre have stepped up yet again to provide Mackay audiences with a romping good time.

Season at Kucom Theatre over two weekends Thurs – Sat 6-8 July and 13-15 July.

Duration: 2 hours plus a 20 min interval.

Recommended for ages: 14 – 104.

Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/perfect-wedding

Review by Vicky Bobeldyk

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A rehearsal photo provides a sneak peek at Kucom Theatre’s performance Perfect Wedding

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Shout out to all Whitsunday Creatives!

This July, take part in the completely free workshop ‘Arts Conversation with Emily’ and learn the key foundations needed to create a sustainable and successful creative-led business.

This free workshop covers all the intricate topics of creative business ventures including:

- Collaborating

- Diversifying income and future-proofing business

- Developing network skills and building industry connections

- Social media marketing and promotion

- Financial management

- Industry bodies and supports, and their roles.

Making sure to cover grants and business planning, workshop host Emily Murphy-O’Neill will touch on every aspect of the business.

Emily has an extensive history in events and music management, and for the past 10 years, she has overseen a range of Aboriginal singers and songwriters, as well as curated immersive programs, created festivals, and contributed to professional development across Australia and Canada.

Emily has a thorough experience creating and leading events, working and developing communities with co-design projects, and leaving a long-lasting legacy wherever she goes.

She is particularly committed to community and community engagement, highly promoting inclusion, legacy, and diversity.

These workshops work as open co-designed meeting spaces, where attendees can share thoughts and ideas, and the discussions and information can be tailored to the needs of the attendees.  

WHAT: Arts Conversations with Emily Murphy-O’Neill

WHERE: 3 Little Birds Café, 402 Shute Harbour Road

WHEN: Monday July 17, 12pm to 2.30pm

TICKETS: eventbrite.com.au

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Learn all the intricacies of developing a creative business from a seasoned professional. Photo supplied

Later this month the wedding industry will be united, as suppliers and industry professionals come together with future brides and grooms at the inaugural Wedding Industry Networking and Fashion Show which will be held at Whisper Restaurant & Gin Bar.

The event will celebrate our thriving local wedding industry and provide couples with a unique insight into the range of specialist services we have in the region.

A highlight of the evening will be an extraordinary fashion show presented by DK Bridal, featuring stunning bridal gowns designed by local talent Dina Kristwati.

The fashion show promises to unveil the latest trends in bridal couture, providing guests with an up-close and personal look at exquisite craftsmanship and artistry.

The Wedding Industry Networking and Fashion Show is brought together by a collaboration between Tourism Whitsundays and Weddings Whitsunday.

"This event is a remarkable opportunity to showcase the exceptional talents and services within our wedding community," said Stacy Harvey, event coordinator.

"With the generous support of Tourism Whitsundays, we are excited to host an evening that will inspire, connect, and captivate attendees."

Rick Hamilton, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays said they are thrilled to support the event.

"The collaboration between Weddings Whitsunday and Tourism Whitsundays demonstrates our dedication to showcasing the Whitsundays as a world-class wedding destination,” he said.

“We look forward to an evening of celebration, inspiration, and forging lasting connections within the wedding community."

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A fashion show will be a highlight at the inaugural Wedding Industry event. Photo supplied

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Have we got news for you!

To celebrate 55 years of the Airlie Beach Hotel, hotel members have been given some of the best chances at winning $250,000 worth of prizes, with two 2023 Toyota Corolla Ascents up for grabs.

Beginning from July 1, all you have to do is be a member of the Airlie Beach Hotel and swipe your card on eligible transactions, to go into the draw.

With easy entries, you may as well up sign up now and get as many chances as possible before the first draw!

Eligible transactions include:

- $25 food and beverage spend, in The Pub and The Bar

- $25 bottle shop spend, at any Airlie Beach Hotel Bottle Shop locations, excluding cigar, cigarette, and tobacco products

- $20 turnover on gaming machines

Prizes include food and beverage vouchers, points for your membership card, that can be redeemed with The Pub and The Bar for food and beverage purchases and the ultimate prize of two 2023 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sports Hatch in Glacier White.

Members are also able to receive additional entries by participating in special promotions on allocated days, until the end of the competition.

On draw days, members must be in the gaming room, with their member card inserted in a gaming machine.

As well as this, draws to go into the chance to win the Toyota are happening eight times a week, with the first car up for grabs on Saturday December 23, just in time for Christmas.

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Legendary icons in American country and blues music, Johnny Cash and June Carter are a powerhouse couple, and highly acclaimed tribute artists, Mark and Joanne Caligiuri, who are also a loved-up couple in real life, have taken on the reins of their massive legacy and will be performing at Airlie Beach Hotel next weekend.

Hey Get Rhythm: A Tribute To Johnny Cash and June Carter blossomed from Mark and Joanne’s love of classic 1950s and 60s music, which initially drew them together in the first place.

Since 2007, Hey Get Rhythm has become a family affair, with Mark’s two sons joining the mix, with Chris on the double bass and Lucas on drums, and Mark’s cousin Adam Prozzo as the lead guitarist.

These ‘Man in Black’ know exactly how to entertain a crowd, bringing the ‘Folsom Prison Blues’, ‘Ring of Fire’ and the ‘City of New Orleans’ to the Airlie Beach Hotel.

‘One Piece At A Time’, Mark and Joanne will make the audience reminisce on simpler times, of ‘Sunday Morning Coming’, of ‘Daddy Sang Bass’.

They certainly ‘Help Me Make It Through’ and at the Airlie Beach Hotel is definitely looking after us.

With enigmatic, yet palpable, on-stage chemistry, Mark and Joanne bring an authentic and intimate performance of Johnny and June, often travelling across Australia, and honouring the late legends.

Every fan, young and old, will find something to love next weekend, from classic ‘The General Lee’ to ‘I’ve Been Everywhere’ and everything in between.

From accurate costuming, musicality and production quality, this distinct show is unique to the real thing and don’t be afraid to get up on stage with the legends, with Mark and Joanne big fans of audience participation, setting the scene for high-energy, high-octane fun for the whole family.

Nothing is to chance, with the ensemble bringing the very best of American country and blues, of ‘Cocaine Blues’, ‘Me and Bobby McGee’ and the ‘Ballad of a Teenage Queen’ soundtracks for the fantastic afternoon shows.

The Airlie Beach Hotel will be looking after the audience, with the performance completely free and it is sure to be a stand out show.

Rock out the weekend the right way, in the comfort of the Airlie Beach Hotel, with one of the best classic American blues and country ensemble serenading you away into a cruisy evening in Airlie Beach.  WHAT: Hey Get Rhythm: A Tribute to Johnny Cash and June Carter

WHERE: The Pub, at the Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, July 15 and 16, 2pm to 5.30pm

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Loved-up couple Mark and Joanne perfectly encapsulate the essence of Johnny Cash and June Carter in this expressive and unique show

Surrounded by family, this Johnny Cash and June Carter tribute show remembers a history of the family travelling and performing together on tours

With touchingly intimate costuming and accurate vocals, Hey Get Rhythm is unlike any other Johnny Cash and June Carter tribute show. Photos supplied

Reprising one of his most iconic roles Tom Cruise is back as Ethan Hunt, in another unforgettable blockbuster, set to thrill, excite, and shock audiences.

In the seventh instalment of the Mission Impossible universe, audiences had high expectations, riding the high garnered from the nine-minute feature that was published months ago.

Ethan Hunt and his team face against a threat, perhaps one of the most dangerous they’ve ever faced.

The team must track down a powerful weapon, a weapon which, if it falls into the wrong hands, can destroy all of humanity.

It doesn’t stop there, with shadows from Ethan’s past also threatening the team and their efforts.

The mysterious and powerful new enemy alludes the team, and Ethan must face a terrifying thought, that nothing matters more than the fate of his mission.

Drawing on real world concerns, the importance that AI plays in the story line has been carefully hidden away from the trailers, adding even more intrigue to the film.

Sure to feature the very best of classic Mission Impossible stunts, the new film showcases new characters that are looking likely to breathe some fresh air into the franchise.

Tom Cruise is joined by Hayley Atwell, portraying the allusive Grace.

With fantastically rendered CGI and impressive cinematography, this film leaves audiences excited and eager for the follow up instalment, Dead Reckoning Part Two, where the stakes are even greater and are sure to leave everyone gasping at the thrills and spills.

This dual-film reprise of the franchise is a fantastic way to get fans back into the cinema, eager for the film, while allowing enough time to completely film and set the story line with appropriate pacing and staging for the audience to become completely engrossed in the action.

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Tom Cruise is back for the seventh instalment of the Mission Impossible franchise

Takes Over Be Social Fest

It’s one of the biggest days on Mackay’s social calendar and Be Social Fest returned with a bang on the weekend.

Music fans from far and wide descended onto Harrup Park as the sun shone on a perfect north Queensland winter’s day.

Local rockers The Wild Sky kicked off an epic day of world class live music, headlined by 360, Mallrat and San Cisco with Australian legends Grinspoon bringing the day to close.

Rides, activities, food and drinks kept punters entertained throughout the day before partying on into the night.

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Keen locals enjoyed a day of live music at Be Social Fest 2023. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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At Whitsunday Anglican School

Whitsunday Anglican School will welcome The James Morrison Quartet as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts in August.

Internationally acclaimed jazz musician and multi-instrumental virtuoso James Morrison will take to the stage alongside musicians from Whitsunday Anglican School before performing with his renowned jazz quartet.

The legendary jazz artist is considered a ‘genius’ on the trumpet, trombone, piano, saxophone and double bass and has played with legends including Ray Brown, Dizzy Gillespie, saying he is “One of The Best” as well as Dave Brubeck, Ray Charles and Quincy Jones.

Whitsunday Anglican School Principal Andrew Wheaton said the special performance was one of pure excitement for the school and wider community.

“The School Oval will be transformed into a major entertainment outdoor hub and we have partnered with an external event company to help bring this event to life,” he said.

“Ticket holders will be able to dine under the stars with catering options from Debbie’s Seafood and K&Co.

“There will also be food vendors and coffee carts available for purchases on the night.”

James Morrison will perform alongside Whitsunday Anglican School musicians as part of the performance event and will also host class workshops.

“This event provides an extraordinary opportunity for our students to perform alongside Jazz-great James Morrison and experience a live performance from an incredible musician,” Mr Wheaton said.

“We are incredibly proud of our Music and Music Extension programs at Whitsunday Anglican School, and our students are working very hard at their craft for this special event.

“Our students can immerse themselves in music and learn an instrument from Preparatory through to Year 12.

“We are looking forward to welcoming The James Morrison Quartet and his team to Mackay, and our remarkable School.”

Tickets and dinner packages are limited for this very special event and are on sale now.

Visit was.qld.edu.au for more details.

WHAT: The James Morrison Quartet at Whitsunday Anglican School

WHEN: Friday, August 4 from 7:00pm to 9:30pm

WHERE: Whitsunday Anglican School

TICKETS: Humanitix

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Esteemed jazz musician James Morrison brings his quartet to Mackay in August

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By Sam Gillespie

A group of local comedians are bringing their monthly Open Mic Night to the Ambassador Hotel today, June 30, and are inviting the community to have a crack.

The event has run on the last Friday of the month for over two years, giving locals a platform to expand their performance skills while offering Mackay an alternative for their Friday night’s entertainment.

Mackay Open Mic Comedy Group formed after a course was hosted by comedians Anna Brennan and Mandy Brown, where they met and began their monthly shows.

Brenden Hayles and Michelle Byrne had both always wanted to perform stand-up but weren’t seeing many opportunities in Mackay until then.

“I learnt the structure of a joke, understanding how to interact with a crowd and working with material on the spot,” said Mr Hayles.

“It isn’t just about getting up in front of a mic, there are a few processes with your writing and timing,” added Ms Byrne.

“We learnt so much and we got to put it into play at the end of our course when we put on our first show; we all felt like we’d hit the big time.”

The group has been hosting open mic nights ever since, rotating their roles from emcee to headliner, and inviting out-of-town guests to mix up each show.

On Friday, Ms Byrne, who had been hosting friends’ events for six years and had always been told she was funny, will bring her relatable brand of comedy to the stage as emcee.

“We cruise through the day without looking back and having a laugh,” she said.

“It’s true, laughter is the best medicine and it’s great for your health.

“These days, I think we need to find that funny side of things because we’re all too serious.”

Mr Hayles will also perform alongside headliner Deanne from Nth Queensland, with the invitation open for anyone else to come up and crack a gag.

“Anybody can have a go,” Mr Hayles said.

“You can come and do five minutes and try your best dad joke.

“We always encourage people to come up.”

The pair urge anyone who’s ever considered themselves a comedian to have a try, promising a safe, non-judgemental space full of laughs.

“We can laugh at ourselves, we can laugh with each other,” said Ms Byrne.

“Hearing the laughter in the room, especially if you’ve got that one person who has that odd laugh, it’s a nice pat on the back.

“You never know, it might be just the thing that you keep wanting to do.”

WHAT: Open Mic Night

WHEN: Friday, June 30 from 7:00pm

WHERE: The Ambassador Hotel Lush Bar

TICKETS: $10 at the door

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Michelle Byrne will emcee Friday night’s Open Mic Night. Photo supplied

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Perfect Wedding is the most globally performed comedy by British playwright Robin Hawdon, and it’s easy to see why. The play opens with the groom waking up on his wedding day beside a woman who is not his bride. Then we embark on a twisting turning tale with misunderstandings, mistaken identity and a very prominent toilet brush.

And it’s all coming to Kucom Theatre in July, for two weeks only, as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts Fringe program.

Here’s a personal invitation from the Director, Kathryn Evans. How can you refuse?

“You are cordially invited to the wedding day of Bill and Rachel.

“‘Perfect Wedding’ by Robin Hawdon is the Festival Fringe offering from Kucom Theatre. We all dream of having the Perfect Wedding and this one is a door slamming, laugh-a-minute farce.

“Starring some well-known faces and featuring some exciting new ones, this promises to be a night of fun and frivolity.”

Regular Kucom theatre goers will recognise some familiar faces from recent productions - Zachary Trounson (The Vicar of Dibley, When the Rain Stops Falling), Carolyn Roche (The Foreigner), Kristyn Everett (Five Women Wearing the Same Dress) – and give a warm welcome to newcomers Asta Ryan, Lani Seaton, and Michael Brennan.

What: Perfect Wedding

When: Thursday 6th, Friday 7th, Saturday 18th, Thursday 13th, Friday 14th, Saturday 15th July.

Where: Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove.

Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/perfect-wedding

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