On Saturday, December 13th, Kas Rae launched her debut children’s book, Broncy Dingle Dandy And His Best Mate Mandy, at Proserpine Library. The book was created in collaboration with illustrator Hiruni Kariyasawa.

As a primary school teacher, Kas is incredibly passionate about spreading the joy of creativity amongst her students. “I really enjoy a book with a beautiful message”, said Kas. The book was inspired by her family dog, Broncy.

The title was based on a particular jingle that involved the phrase broncy dingle dandy, serving as the impetus for the book’s development.

Kas loved reading the book to her students both during its development and after its completion, reminiscing on the joy felt when the students retained many of the rhymes and phrases.

The book saw a fruitful collaboration with talented illustrator Hiruni, as rough sketches and ideas by Kas developed into the beautiful art now featured in the book.

The story encourages positive self-talk and resilience. “The whole book is about Broncy not giving up…the underlying theme is asking for help from friends,” explained Kas.

Overall, the book’s development stems from a deep passion for encouraging creativity amongst the youth, especially in regional areas like ours.

“Growing up here, I didn’t even think [creativity] was an option on the menu…it’s come to be that I can do this, but I’m really passionate about letting kids know that they can do this…you can create a story, you can do it.”

By extension, Kas believes creativity is important to promote in education. The hand-drawn aesthetic in the book was crafted to directly contrast with clean AI images that children are often exposed to, teaching them that handmade craft is something that should hold great value.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received, I feel really lucky.”

The release of Broncy Dingle Dandy And His Best Mate Mandy signifies a growth in creative spirit for the Whitsundays region and it is available now including the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.

‍

Photo supplied

‍

Friday 19 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Simon Briley (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Pheonix Revival (from 8pm)

Saturday 20 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Australian Eagles (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Ahri (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

Sunday 21 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Australian Eagles (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Scotty Wilson (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Simon Briley (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Noah Davis (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Monday 22 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Tuesday 23 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Wednesday 24 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

‍

December

19 74 Islands Christmas Cocktail Club, Elmenta Whitsundays, from 5pm

19 The Grinch, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

20 Proserpine Farmers Christmas Market, 10 Edward St, 8am - 12pm

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

24 Members Christmas Eve Drinks, Club Whitsunday, 2pm - 5pm

25 Christmas Day

26 Boxing Day

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

31 New Year’s Eve

February

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

March

22 The UK Rod Stewart Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

May

1 SPOT, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm - 12.50pm

13 Luke Kidgell - Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9pm

31 Creedence Clearwater Collective, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

June

26 Echoes of Pink Floyd - 60 Years of Pink Floyd, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 8pm - 10.45pm

July

25 - 26 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

August

7 Room on the Broom, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 1pm - 1.55pm

9 A Taste of Ireland, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 4pm - 6pm

September

11 - 12 White on Whitsunday Long Lunch, Whitehaven Beach, from 8am

‍

Many would shy away from such a description; however, popular music act Geed Up have embraced the idea that they can put on the ‘Worst Show Ever’.

Having performed for over 20 years, Geed Up bring a vibrant, pulsating energy to every individual performance. The Brisbane act is renowned for its vocal versatility, polished harmonies and dynamically impressive fusion of soul, funk, edge and class, blending old and new music with energetic breakdancing and airtight acrobatic choreography.

The frenetic stage act combines acrobatics, dancing, acapella and comedy to put on an incredibly unique show. The energy requires extensive individual training to maintain the demanding physicality of the presentation and the group is composed of different and varied talents, including a contortionist!

Geed Up have performed over 30 shows at Airlie Beach Hotel, with this performance representing their 4th New Year’s feature. Building on their extensive experience, Geed Up promises a spectacular series of gigs.

“We have new tricks up our sleeve”, said band member Khan. The group promises “maximum entertainment in the shortest amount of time”. With covers from the 80s, 90s and early 2000s, the performance provides an extraordinary range of music that many can enjoy. The show will be family-friendly, providing something for everyone.

The band have also proudly partnered with Beyond Blue, helping to raise mental health awareness through fundraising.

The dates come at an exciting time of year, with one show on the afternoon of New Years Eve to warm up for the big night, and one show on January 1st to celebrate the first day of 2026.

Get down to Airlie Beach for laughs, thrills and high energy. There are plenty of surprises prepared. This is not a performance you will want to miss!

WHAT: Geed Up’s ‘Worst Show Ever’
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Tuesday 30th, Wednesday 31 December & Thursday 1st January

‍

Friday 12th December

Crochet & Conversation
9am
Local residents are invited to a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on the Bucasia Esplanade. The friendly Northern Beaches group welcomes beginners and experienced crafters alike, with tools available to borrow. Held indoors during summer and outdoors in the cooler months, the gathering focuses on connection, creativity and community projects.
Beachfront Bar & Restaurant, Bucasia Esplanade

Santa’s Arrival at the Toy Shop
5pm
Santa will roll into the City Heart this week with the Mackay & District Holden & GM Club, bringing a wave of festive spirit to the community. Families are invited to gather in-store as Santa arrives by 6:30pm, with Christmas karaoke, fun games, photo opportunities on his sleigh, and plenty of gift-shopping on offer. A cheerful evening awaits all who come along.
Let The Children Play Toyshop & Games Store

Saturday 13th December

Monthly Breast Cancer Support Group
9am
The Mackay Breast Cancer Support Group will hold its monthly gathering at the meeting room in Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens, offering a confidential and welcoming space for patients and survivors to connect. Running from 9am to 12pm, the free event includes introductions, shared discussion and morning tea. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small plate to share and may wear a touch of pink.
Mackay Regional Botanical Gardens

Community Garden Christmas Party
10am
Locals are invited to gather in the gardens for a relaxed end-of-year celebration, marking a season of connection and growth. Guests are encouraged to bring a plate to share, with the woodfired oven fired up and ready for a mix of creative bites and shared flavours. It’s a chance to unwind, enjoy the setting, and celebrate the year together.
3 Sarah Street West Mackay

Christmas in the Chapel
2.30pm
Christmas in the Chapel returns to Mackay this December, offering an intimate concert of music, light and seasonal spirit inside the beautifully atmospheric St Joseph's Church. Featuring Suellen Cusack, Daniel Szesiong Todd and Jessica Savage, the performance blends classic carols with modern favourites. Audiences are invited to pause and enjoy an afternoon of shared Christmas magic. Tickets available via Eventbrite.com.
St Joseph's Church North Mackay

Sunday 14th December

Northern Beaches Community Christmas Carols
3pm
The Northern Beaches Community Christmas Carols will bring festive spirit to Bucasia Esplanade on Sunday, December 14 from 3pm to 6.30pm. Families can enjoy live music, carols, a Lions sausage sizzle, sweet treats, market stalls and free children’s activities in a relaxed beachfront setting. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or picnic rugs. The event is alcohol and drug free and supported by Mackay Regional Council’s Community Christmas Grant.
Bucasia Espl, Bucasia

Journey to Joy – Christmas Spectacular
5.30pm
Experience the hope, joy and warmth of the season at NewLife Mackay’s Christmas celebration on Sunday, December 14. Families are invited to enjoy food and festive activities from 5:30pm before a Christmas show and live carols begin at 7pm. The event will be held at 75 Evans Avenue, North Mackay. Everyone is welcome to come along and share in an evening of community and Christmas spirit.
75 Evans Ave, North Mackay

‍

As a prolific performer, Robbie Williams impersonator Louie Fee Feldrin is no stranger to the Airlie Beach Hotel. With a strong and varied musical background in both theatre and rock bands, Louie initially knew little of Robbie Williams; however, with the growing popularity of the British pop superstar, many noticed a peculiar likeness.

Opportunity struck with Channel Nine Show ‘Starstruck’, which saw contestants assume the role of stars they were deemed most alike. This experience allowed Louie to fully embrace his knack for replicating Robbie, and since then, he has performed extensively as ‘The Robbie Williams Experience’. Whether it's major hotels, corporate events or high profile celebrity shows, the tribute acts' extensive touring experience should get many excited for a hotly anticipated return to the Airlie Beach Hotel.

The upcoming dates promise surprises and an exciting collaboration with ‘Kylie’ impersonator Rachel Rischin. Louie and Rachel have been performing together for some time as the 'Robbie/Kylie' duo and show no signs of slowing down with this next set of shows.

"We have a new choreographer", said Louie. The new shows will focus more choreography and lighting in conjunction with Kylie Minogue’s famously flamboyant presentation. The shows will feature music from both new and old eras, performing iconic 90s hits and freshly released Spotify singles.

“I’m looking forward to it”, said Louie. The show will be open to all ages so everyone is welcome to come for a series of electric performances to ignite the holiday season. "Robbie has been including surprises in his own show, so we would like to do that as well." The Airlie Beach Hotel anticipates a great series of shows, allowing longtime fans to be transported to the worlds of Robbie Williams and Kylie Minogue.

WHAT: The Robbie Williams Experience
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: December 27th, 28th, 29th (2pm-5:30pm)

‍

At the Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair this Friday the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry are delivering a fun Best Dressed Window Display competition.

Every business is encouraged to participate and create an eye-catching display that captures the spirit of Christmas and celebrates Proserpine’s unique character.

Store displays will be judged by The Hon. Amanda Camm MP and Mayor Ry Collins during the Fair, which runs from 5pm to 8pm on Friday, 12 December on Main Street in Proserpine.

The major prize includes a Chamber–Whitsunday Life promotional package, featuring a half-page advertisement and editorial in this newspaper, a 500-word business profile shared across the Chamber communication channels, and a Chamber subscription for winners who are not current members.

The Two runners-up will each receive a package comprising a quarter-page advertisement and editorial in this newspaper, a 250-word business profile shared across the Chamber communication channels, and a Chamber subscription if not already a member.

Chamber President Allan Milostic said “The Chamber is excited to celebrate Proserpine businesses and showcase the creativity and community spirit of the region during the festive season.”

Mayor Ry Collins said Christmas in Proserpine is all about community, and this year’s Twilight Fair is shaping up to be one of our best yet.

“Council is proud to back this event and work alongside Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP to create a magical night for families right across the district,” said Mayor Ry Collins.

“From helping coordinate the road closure and supporting local traders, to funding the children’s activities so rides are free for all, Council is ensuring the Prossie Main Street will come alive. It’s going to be a fantastic celebration of Proserpine’s spirit.”

Division 3 Councillor John Colins said he was thrilled to see so many local businesses staying open late and joining in the festivities.

“What makes Proserpine such a great place to live is that our community show up, support our locals, and make memories together,” he said.

“I hope everyone comes down, grabs a bite to eat, checks out the stalls and enjoys the Christmas atmosphere.”

Best Dressed Window Display:
Judging Criteria
Entries will be judged by The Hon. Amanda Camm MP and Mayor Ry Collins during the Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair, 5pm-8pm Friday 12 December and prizes will be awarded for:
• Creativity and originality
• Visual appeal and festive impact
• Connection to Proserpine
• Overall presentation and effort

Safety & Practicalities
• Keep walkways clear and avoid creating tripping hazards.
• Ensure electrical items are safe for use in a commercial property.
• Avoid blocking key lines of sight for staff working inside.

Community Spirit
• Incorporate elements that reflect local culture, history, or the Proserpine community where appropriate.
• Consider using locally sourced materials or products to highlight local business connections.
• Collaborative displays between neighbouring businesses are welcome.

Participation
• All Proserpine retailers and service businesses with a Main Street facing window are welcome to participate.
• Displays should ideally be ready for viewing by 12pm Friday 12 December, with judging to take place during the Fair.

‍

December

12 Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair, Main St, 5pm - 8pm

12 Bowen Christmas Night Markets, Town Centre, 5pm - 9pm

12 74 Islands Christmas Cocktail Club, Elmenta Whitsundays, from 5pm

13 Ross Wilson & The Peaceniks - 50 Years Of Hits Tour, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 10.30pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

14 Kids Christmas Disco Party, Club Whitsunday, 10am - 12pm

17 A DinoMite Baby Dinosaur Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 10am - 11am

19 74 Islands Christmas Cocktail Club, Elmenta Whitsundays, from 5pm

19 The Grinch, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

20 Proserpine Farmers Christmas Market, 10 Edward St, 8am - 12pm

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

24 Members Christmas Eve Drinks, Club Whitsunday, 2pm - 5pm

25 Christmas Day

26 Boxing Day

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

31 New Year’s Eve

February

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

March

22 The UK Rod Stewart Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

May

1 SPOT, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm - 12.50pm

13 Luke Kidgell - Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9pm

31 Creedence Clearwater Collective, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

June

26 Echoes of Pink Floyd - 60 Years of Pink Floyd, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 8pm - 10.45pm

July

25 - 26 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

August

7 Room on the Broom, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 1pm - 1.55pm

9 A Taste of Ireland, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 4pm - 6pm

September

11 - 12 White on Whitsunday Long Lunch, Whitehaven Beach, from 8am

‍

Friday 12 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Ash Smith (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Saturday 13 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Xmas Party (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Zed Charles (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Bad Girl (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Sunday 14 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Xmas Party (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Zed Charles (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Noah Davis (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Monday 15 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Tuesday 16 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Michael Hayes (from 8pm)

Wednesday 17 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Thursday 18 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Nick Di Gregorio (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Pheonix Revival (from 8pm)

‍

Club Whitsunday officially kicked off their jam-packed December last weekend with an appearance from Santa Claus and The Australian Grinch.

For those that missed out, it's okay! Santa will be making weekly appearances, visiting the club every Sunday before Christmas on December 14 and 21 at 2pm - 3pm.

Next Sunday brings a highlight for local families, with a free kids’ disco hosted by DJ Bad Girl from 10am to 12pm. Parents are welcome to drop the children off for two hours of supervised entertainment while they enjoy a relaxed morning. Following the disco, Santa will be making another appearance for free photographs.

Club Whitsunday will also be hosting raffles, one on Saturday 13 December, and a special kids raffle on Sunday 21 December. The raffles have over $5000 worth of prizes.

Wrapping up December, on Christmas Eve from 2pm-5pm, Club Whitsunday are saying thank you and celebrating their members with an exclusive Members and family drinks.

Looking ahead, the club is planning a casual, family-friendly New Year’s Eve event featuring early dinner and entertainment, timed so patrons can still head into town for fireworks if they wish. A major Australia Day event is also in the works, with details to come.

With events scheduled every weekend throughout December, Club Whitsunday will be the hub for festive fun and community connection this holiday season.

‍

Carols by the Beach

On a beautiful summer Sunday afternoon, friends and family gathered to celebrate the emerging festival season. Families headed to the Airlie Beach Foreshore for an evening of music, festive cheer and good times. Cannonvale State School sang with passion and whimsy, marking the beginning of a beautiful, celebratory season. The weather was soothing, the mood was up, and the atmosphere was beaming, resulting in a fantastic event that signified the Whitsunday region's immense excitement for all things Christmas.

Find more social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/23tna62q

Georgia, Isla and Demi. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie.

‍

Following a spectacular season launch last Friday, Kucom Theatre will be holding auditions on Saturday 13 December for a season of one-act plays to be showcased in March 2026.

Titled The Ties That Bind, the program will include:

• For Whom the Southern Belle Tolls, by Christopher Durang, directed by Anzjuli Venter
• Looking at the Alps, by Yvette Wall, directed by Maureen Coleman
• The Problem, by A R Gurney, directed by John Irvine

The directors are looking for actors of all ages, and new faces are always welcome.

No preparation is required. An audition pack will be available for download from the Kucom
Theatre Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/kucomtheatre/ If you’re not on Facebook but would like to audition, you can apply for an audition pack by emailing Kucom: admin@kucom.org.au or phoning 0419 756 840.

If you would like to audition but cannot attend on the 13th, an alternative time may be arranged by contacting Kucom Theatre on 0419 756 840, or by emailing admin@kucom.org.au.

Please ensure the subject line reads: Auditions – one-act plays 2026.

When: Saturday 13 December 2025 from 2pm.
Where: Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove (opposite the Wake Park on
Beaconsfield Road).

The Ties That Bind will take the stage at Kucom Theatre on Thursday 12 March 2026 for a
two-week season.

‍

As Mackay prepares to host Exchange for Peace this December, local performers from the Mackay Choral Society are stepping into the spotlight for what promises to be one of the region’s most significant musical collaborations.

The concert, held at the MECC on 19 and 20 December, brings together an orchestra from Malaysia, local Mackay musicians and the Mackay Choral Society in a rare international partnership. With more than 100 performers on stage, the event marks a major cultural moment - and for the choir, it’s deeply personal.

For long-standing member Ken Brown, the performance carries both artistic and emotional significance.

Ken joined the Society in 2006 after being inspired by its Messiah concert the previous year.

“We’ve done so many great performances that inspire and provide great music for Mackay,” he said.

Exchange for Peace also gives Ken the chance to reconnect with Malaysian performers he met during a previous collaboration. But at the heart of it is Karl Jenkins’ powerful work, The Armed Man: A Mass for Peace.

“The Armed Man is a wonderful work and I’m excited to bring it to Mackay,” Ken said.

“My favourite movement is the Benedictus. It’s moving and sombre, and perfectly reflects a desire for peace.”

For Bernie Cheng, President of the Mackay Choral Society, the project arrives at a milestone moment.

“I’ve been a member since 2020. I joined because I love the joy of singing in community, and I’ve stayed because of the friendships, the challenge of the repertoire, and the chance to be part of something bigger than myself,” Bernie said.

Bernie says performing The Armed Man at the MECC will be unforgettable.

“I’m looking forward to that moment when the audience collectively holds its breath, and we know all the late-night rehearsals were worth it.”

What: The Culture Exchange, Mackay Choral Society Presents and The MECC Presents: Exchange for Peace
When: Friday 19 December, 7.30PM & Saturday 20 December, 7.30PM
Where: Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC)
Tickets available now: www.themecc.com

‍

Ken Brown performing for Mackay Choral Society.

Bernie Cheng performing for Mackay Choral Society. Photos supplied

‍

Friday 5th December

Free Parent Support Workshop
9.30am
Nutricula Psychology is hosting a free practical parenting workshop designed to help you better understand and support your child’s behaviour. Learn how the brain shapes daily reactions and take home simple, effective strategies to create calmer routines and stronger connections. With practical tools and time to reflect with other parents, this session offers insight and reassurance. Registration is essential as places are limited—visit their website to secure a spot.
16 Central Drive, Andergrove

City Heart Christmas
4pm
Mackay’s City Heart Christmas returns on 5 December from 4pm–8pm, bringing an evening of festive family fun to the city centre. Enjoy a moonlight family movie, Christmas carollers, kids’ activities, late-night shopping, the launch of the Bright Lights projections, Santa’s Secret Present Search, riverside markets, and more. A lively, family-friendly way to celebrate the season and support local.
Mackay City Heart

Poetry in Print Exhibition Night
5pm
Mark your calendar for the Poetry in Print Exhibition on Thursday, 5 December, from 5–8pm. Opening night will feature striking artworks, live performances from Mackay Poetry Slam, and the chance to meet the creatives behind this unique collaboration.
96 Victoria Street Mackay (Groove Moover Studio)

Xmas Cinema in the City
6.30pm
Join the community on Friday, 5 December at 6.30pm for a Free outdoor screening of the Christmas favourite Elf. Bring the family, pack a blanket and some snacks, and enjoy a relaxed night under the stars in the heart of the city. Arrive early to explore the City Heart Christmas festivities and secure your spot in the park from 5.30pm. A festive night not to be missed.
Wood Street Park

Saturday 6th September

Hawaiian XMAS Race Day
11am
Mackay Turf Club is inviting the community to its Hawaiian Xmas Race Day, promising a festive family day full of racing excitement, sunshine, and holiday cheer. Attendees are encouraged to dress in their best Hawaiian attire and enjoy friendly competition, games, and activities for all ages. Tickets are available through oztix.com.
Mackay Turf Club

Crafternoon
1pm
ThinkingThrifty is hosting a Crafternoon at Lighthouse Church Mackay, offering a fun, creative afternoon of card making, junk journalling, and a cuppa with friends. The free event runs on Saturday, 6 December, from 1–4pm at 1–3 O’Loughlin Street, with all supplies provided. Participants can also purchase junk journals and pre-made cards on the day. RSVP by contacting Liz on 0413 765 776.
Lighthouse Church Mackay

Star & 4MK’s Carols in the Gardens
4.30pm
Star & 4MK’s Carols in the Gardens, presented by Glencore, is back for 2025! Join the family on Saturday, 6 December, from 4:30pm to 8:30pm at Meadowlands Amphitheatre for a magical evening of festive fun. Enjoy sing-along carols, local stage performances, Adventureland rides, a spectacular LED Christmas tree light show, and delicious food trucks. Bring your picnic rug and make memories at this free community event for all ages!
Meadowlands Ampitheatre

Crossroads Arts Presents Loose Ends
7pm
Crossroad Arts Inc. and the MECC present LOOSE ENDS in celebration of International Day of People with Disability. This lively night of performance, music, dance, and live art showcases the creativity of the community. The event takes place on Saturday, 6 December 2025 at the MECC, featuring a fundraiser, prizes, giveaways, and raffles. Enjoy a night full of laughs, heart, and unforgettable performances.
MECC

Sunday 7th December

Puzzlin’ Fun
9am
Puzzlin’ Fun invites the community to a day of puzzle-filled fun on 7th December at the Jubilee Community Centre, RM4 Mackay Meeting Room. Enjoy a puzzle swap table, try 50–500 piece puzzles, and test your skills with Puzzle Hustle. Exclusive puzzles from state, national, and world competitions will be on display, with a 1,000-piece puzzle as a lucky door prize. Fun for all ages—free to attend!
Jubilee Community Centre

Christmas in the Cane
2.30pm
Carlisle’s Christmas in the Cane invites the community to a festive evening of fun for all ages. Families and friends can enjoy delicious food, market stalls, exciting carnival rides, live performances by local talent, and a spectacular fireworks display set to music. Tickets for carnival rides are available on-site and online. This is a free, family-friendly event—perfect for celebrating the season together!

Thursday 11th December

Stand-up Comedy Night
6pm
The Live Lounge is bringing comedy back to Mackay with its first-ever monthly Stand-Up Comedy Night. Featuring seven top comedians, including performers from the Adelaide and Edinburgh Fringe, it promises a night of laughs not to be missed. Bring your mates, a BYO drink, and enjoy snacks on-site. Escape reality and enjoy a night of heartwarming hilarity. Suggested donation: $10.
104 Victoria St, Mackay

‍

THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift Music – is set to begin its Australian tour this January, taking in dates across QLD, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory.

The Proserpine Entertainment Centre is one of the lucky venues to watch the show live on Sunday February 1st.

“There’s a lot of buzz at the moment. We’re expecting audiences to be extra excited and engaged, and that’s great because it makes for really fun and memorable shows,” says producer Johnny Van Grinsven.

The production, which debuted just this year has already toured to South Africa, Canada and New Zealand with the Australian tour to kick start the new year.

The show is lead by New Zealand singer-songwriter and recording artist Josette. She considers herself a huge swiftie and she bears resemblance too. Josette will show off her skills as a multi-instrumentalist in the lead role, performing live on vocals, guitar and piano, accompanied by an international cast of musicians and dancers who will be recreating the most memorable moments from Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour, complete with all the famous sparkly costumes and cosmic stage production.

Touted as a ‘joyous and effervescent’ concert experience where fans are encouraged to dance and sing along, the show features over 20 exquisite renditions of Taylor’s biggest hits from every era of her career, including Shake It Off, Anti-Hero, Cruel Summer, You Belong With Me, Love Story, I Knew You Were Trouble, Blank Space, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, Bad Blood, Our Song, Lover and more.

Tickets are available now via the Proserpine Entertainment Centre's website.

‍