Hibiscus Coast District Scouts hosted a fun Open Day event, "Queensland Day with Scouts in Queens Park," on Saturday, June 11, 2023, from 10am to 3pm.

The Adventurous Activity Team had their hands full throughout the day as a staggering 156 children enthusiastically registered to partake in the diverse range of activities on offer. Among the favourites was the Rope Bridge, captivating the imaginations of the younger participants. Crate stacking emerged as an excellent test of balance and resilience, challenging individuals to reach new heights. The Bouldering Wall presented a daunting task, requiring strength and determination to navigate successfully. However, the leaders were on hand to provide varying degrees of assistance, ensuring everyone could participate. Families flocked to the popular Archery Attack, relishing the opportunity to compete against their own children on opposing teams.

An engaging Map Run activity, organized and overseen by the 21 degrees South Multi Sport Association, allowed older children to navigate the course with a friend, while younger ones led their parents through the exciting challenge.

Throughout the day, the Crime Stoppers Volunteer Committee grilled sausages and onions, offering them alongside refreshing soft drinks to satisfy the appetites of the enthusiastic participants.

Looking ahead, the much-anticipated Scout Fest is scheduled for Saturday, August 19, 2023. While the event is open to the public, there is a nominal fee associated with attending. Taking place at Rowallan Park, Scout Fest promises an array of exciting activities, including abseiling, mud courses, canoeing, rafting, mountain biking, go-karting, geocaching, damper making, crafts, and much more. Attendees can expect a remarkable time as they seize this exceptional opportunity. For additional information and to register for the event, please visit the official Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ScoutFest or access the registration portal directly at https://www.trybooking.com/CFNDL.

Contributed by Mary Wallace

‍

Australia’s hottest acrobats will visit the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) on Saturday 1 July, when Circus Trick Tease visits as part of Mackay’s Festival of Arts.

Presented by the award-winning company Circus Trick Tease, ‘Werk It’ showcases a dynamic display of acrobatics, hula hooping, and jaw dropping tricks from an all-star cast donning vibrant spandex and high-visibility hot pants.

With acrobatics overflowing with satire, wit and comedy; audience members can expect a night of equal parts skill, thrill and laughs.

Manager of MECC & Events, Andrew Bobeldyk said Werk It wasn’t a typical circus performance.

“Werk It is an adult’s circus, it contains mature themes, strong language and is strictly 18+,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“The performance received nightly standing ovations in its debut season and has generated significant buzz around Australia’s Festival scene.”

Werk It has garnered critical acclaim with sold out performances during its international tours, including three successful seasons at the prestigious Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Joining them is internationally recognised hula hoop artist Lisa Lottie who studied in Rio de Janeiro and London to obtain her degree in circus arts, and then refined her skills street performing in front of London Eye.

“The talent behind this group is substantial. If you’re looking for a night full of high-flying antics and great music, this is it,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

The team behind Werk It have 9 awards under their belt and are recognised for their comedic flair.

To avoid disappointment, Festivals Mackay highly recommends that patrons book their tickets in advance by purchasing online or via the box office.

What: Circus Trick Tease: Werk It

When: Saturday 1 July, 7.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

‍

Friday 16 June

Song Contest: The Almost Eurovision Experience

Friday, 10:30am & 7:30pm, Saturday, 2pm & 7:30pm and Sunday 2pm

Experience the outrageous excitement of Eurovision…almost! SONG CONTEST: THE ALMOST EUROVISION EXPERIENCE is a rollicking musical comedy parody of the famous song contest. And, just like the real thing, you get to decide the winner! With an over-the-top host and acts from 11 countries that have to be seen to be believed, this riotous comedy explosion is not to be missed. And, yes, there will be sequins!

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

An Arvo with Billy Moore

Friday, 5:00pm

Spend an afternoon with former Queensland NRL great, Billy Moore at the Seabreeze. Not only will you meet this Aussie icon in the flesh, you will also be able to enjoy a bev with him and partake in our auctions and raffles. All the action kicks off from 5pm and entry is free so don’t miss this golden opportunity.

Seabreeze Hotel

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

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

Wake House Australia

IT’S THE ASHES with HEALS, KASPA, ANDY & WADE

Friday, 6:00pm

Join Star FM’s Scott van der Linden along with four of QLD’s greatest players, Ian Healy, Michael Kasprowicz, Andy Bichel and Wade Seccombe, for an evening of great Ashes moments. It’s an evening celebrating the history of the Ashes along with their thoughts on the Ashes series in 2023 while watching the first session of the opening Ashes test match. All whilst being served with exquisite Harrup Park catering.

Harrup Park

Saturday 17 June

Mackay Rainbow Pride

Saturday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Colourful signs and costumes will march across the Forgan Bridge to celebrate the LGBTI community with everyone welcome to come and support this free event.

Bluewater Quay

Mick Woodbridge Live at the Seabreeze Hotel

Saturday, 6:30pm

Don't miss Mick Woodbridge live at the Seabreeze Hotel.

Seabreeze Hotel

Charmaine Wilson - The Australian Medium

Saturday, 7:30pm

Charmaine Wilson is a world-renowned Australian medium, who has been consistently recognised for her skill and compassion since awakening to her gift in 1999. She has been dedicated to giving accurate information about the spirit world to her clients since she began her work in 2002 and is touring extensively around regional Australia.

MECC

Sunday 18 June

June Photo Walkabout - Macrophotography - What's Bugging You?

Sunday, 9:00am to 11:00am

Join for a look at bugs and flowers in this macrophotography workshop. Suitable for smart devices to DSLR cameras. Bring a tripod if you have one. Meet at the Botanic Gardens Meeting Room (opposite the cafe). To book your spot, phone the gardens on 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au These workshops are free to attend and hosted by Garden Friends Association and supported by Mackay Camera Club and the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Sunday Live Music – Raining Roses

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

Pioneer Valley Show

Sunday

An iconic event in the valley, widely regarded by fellow shows, patrons, exhibitors, site holders and entertainers throughout as the best one day show in Australia. A country-orientated fun, family day, the show consistently attracts crowds of over 16,000 people.

Finch Hatton Showgrounds

Tuesday 20 June

Mackay Show 2023

Tuesday to Thursday

The Mackay Show Society Association is excited to bring the community the 144th Annual Mackay Show. This year’s show will be held over 3 days starting at 9am Tuesday the 20th of June and will be continuing through to 4pm Thursday the 22nd of June. The Mackay Show committee and fellow volunteers are honoured to bring one of the region’s largest events for 2023. This year’s show will offer everyone's favourites including exhibits, show rides, the amazing nightly fireworks display and don't forget your Dagwood dog.

Mackay Showgrounds

BMA Kidspace

Tuesday, 10:00am

Join local artists and performers for creative art activities designed for toddlers and their adults. Drop-in anytime between 10am and 2pm (live children's music from 11.30am to 12.15pm). 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 21 June

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 22 June

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

‍

By Sam Gillespie

A local author is hoping to educate the children of Australia on ocean conservation through a series of letters written by her character Tommy the Farting Turtle.

When lockdown hit, Lisa Thompson combined her passions for ocean animals and whimsy and wrote Tommy the Farting Turtle and his Adventures, a children’s book that even ended up in the hands of George Clooney and Sarah Ferguson.

Now, she’s continuing her pursuit of ocean education, writing ‘Letters from the Ocean’, a series of letters about sea creatures who have been rescued and released back to the ocean.

“I do a lot of research and talk to lots of places that rescue sea creatures around Australia and the world,” Ms Thompson said.

“I talk to some pretty interesting people.”

Ms Thompson hopes to start a subscription service where children will receive letters from Tommy telling his tale of marine friends being rescued, sharing that message of ocean care.

Growing up in Picton, New Zealand, Ms Thompson grew up on boats and has long had a love for the ocean.

“We need to teach our next generation how to preserve our oceans and sea life because when we’re not here, who will?” she said.

Stories range from a whale being rescued from a net in the New York harbour to pelican rescues in the southeast of Australia and are written in rhyme to appeal to a young audience.

On top of the letters, which are intended to be delivered once a month either physically or digitally, Ms Thompson dreams of travelling Australia and visiting schools, teaching children how to care for our oceans.

“I think it’d be really cool for kids who live in the middle of Australia nowhere near the beach to hopefully be inspired to become a marine biologist,” she said.

For more information or to find out how to get involved, email bridgenick@hotmail.com.

‍

Lisa Thompson hopes to teach kids how to care for our oceans. Photo supplied

The Ambassador Hotel is giving local tradespeople a fun opportunity to contribute to a serious cause with their Tradie Auction.

The Tradie Auction asks tradies to donate a day of their time, labour and services to be auctioned off, with the proceeds to go to local charity Grapevine Group.

“We’ve put a callout to local tradies, and we will promote and sell you off on the night,” said Ambassador Hotel Licensee Mike Haber.

“We’re creating awareness and raising funds for the Grapevine Group, a very important organisation that highlights suicide awareness and they need funds so we’re happy to come on board and do our little bit.”

Mr Haber is expecting 15-20 tradies and services to get involved and has already recruited services from gyms and hairdressers to electricians and seat repairers.

“We’re happy to promote the tradies because of the great support they give to us and, in turn, to such a great charity organisation as well,” he said.

One of those tradies is Brad Hehir, who will be donating the installation of an air conditioning unit to be auctioned on the night.

“Everyone in this town has been affected in some way, shape or form by this campaign especially so we’re just trying to put the word out there and help where we can,” Mr Hehir said.

To date, Grapevine Group has trained over 6,600 people throughout the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions in suicide prevention with the funds raised to go towards continuing this work.

“It also allows us to build on our awareness campaigns where we very much want the community to be educated on the warning signs of suicide, how to have a conversation with someone who’s struggling, and also the resources to be able direct them to help,” said Grapevine Group President Debbie Knight.

“We do know that the training we provide is effective, we know that it saves lives, and it’s so important that people have those skills behind them.”

Any tradespeople or service providers interested in getting involved are asked to contact admin@ambassadorhotel.net.au.

WHAT: Vassallo Constructions presents Tradie Auction 2023

WHEN: Saturday, July 1 from 6:00pm

WHERE: Ambassador Hotel

TICKETS: Eventbrite

‍

Electrician Brett Hehir, Auctioneer Trevor Chapman, Seat Repairer Jason H, Ambassador Hotel Licensee Mike Haber and Grapevine Group President Debbie Knight. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

The beach club of Airlie Beach is back for the second year running, with a party not to miss.

This two-day fiesta is bringing the good vibes, sweet tunes and the perfect relaxed party atmosphere that will keep people coming back for more.

Spreading out across the Whitsunday Sailing Club lawns with stunning panoramic views of Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays, this pop-up beach club has all you could want for a two-day party.

It’s a place where you can spend the day relaxing by the beautiful Coral Sea on white beach lounges, laying back with friends, or get amongst the action with entertainment from famous DJs Jamie Porteous and Nina Sinclair, and live musicians - show off your best dance moves on the barefoot beach dancefloor!

This Balearica Beach Club knows how to do the long weekend right, with fresh tiki bar, an extensive menu of exotic and everlasting favourite cocktails, backed by Diablo Co, and a fully stocked bar of Aussie weekend classics, including Corona and a wide variety of carefully curated and hand selected wines, including fantastic Saint Louis Champagne.

Don’t forget to check out the Spanish tapas menu, with beautifully done Pinchitos, classic Albondigas, and flaky Churros, as a sweet treat, rounding out the perfect beach club Ibiza vibes.

Encompassing all things cruising, relaxing and coastal, Balearica Beach Club is looking after the locals and visitors, with an event always marked in the calendar.

Don’t miss this good time.

WHAT: Balearica Beach Club Season Opening

WHEN: Saturday, June 24 and Sunday, June 25

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club

TICKETS: balearicabeachclub.com.au

‍

By Bronte Hodge

Ever a fan of touring and getting back to their roots, Australian-New Zealand rock legends Dragon will be gracing the Airlie Beach Festival of Music stage this November.

In fact, Dragon was a headliner for the first Airlie Beach Festival of Music, back in 2013, and now 10 years on, they are honoured to be invited once again.

The boys, Todd on vocals and bass, Mark with vocals and guitar, Bruce on guitar, and Pete who is awesome on drums, have an antipodean rhythm that thrums through them, creating hit Aussie classics that everybody has to get up and dance to.

The band embodies rock and roll and rocks out in a ‘gentlemanly-like fashion’, according to Mark, who was propositioned by Todd 17 years ago to join the band.

“Of course, I said yes,” said Mark.

“I was just wondering, who calls at 10 o’clock in the morning with something so unexpected?

“And it was quite amazing.”

Dragon has transformed into a household family name, particularly in 1987 when the band toured across Europe with powerhouse Tina Turner, under the name ‘Hunter’.  

“I think that is by far a high point for the band,” said Mark.

Since then, Dragon has returned to Australia and made a local name for themselves across Australia and New Zealand.

“We went to one of those big festivals in New Zealand, Rhythm and Vines.

“And, you know, there was nobody there, nobody in the audience.

“We had only just arrived and there was somebody on stage just announcing.

“And we’re going ‘oh my god, this is going to be awful. We’re going to walk out on stage and play to nobody’ and literally within the 10 minutes before we walked on stage, thousands of people came over the hills and everywhere, and everyone came down to the stage.

“It was a phenomenal sight!”

Making their way to Airlie Beach Festival of Music is high on the band’s agenda.

“We have been wondering when we’d have the chance to come to the festival again. Every year it goes by, and every year we go ‘there it is, and there we aren’t’, but not this year!

“We are thrilled, absolutely thrilled to be coming!”

The variety of artists on the 2023 lineup continue to get bigger and better, with more headliners announced seemingly every day.

“The variety of acts is outstanding. It seems to be a lot of classics. With us, we’ll be playing the anthems that everyone knows, so we can play a chord and the audience can sing along.”

The classic timeless tunes of Dragon will not be lost on anyone at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music 2023, with every generation, young and old, rocking out to the set list.

What a way to spend a chill spring afternoon, rocking to the best of ‘April Sun in Cuba,’ ‘Are You Old Enough?’ and ‘Still in Love with You’.

WHAT: Airlie Beach Festival of Music

WHERE: Airlie Beach

WHEN: Thursday November 9 to Sunday November 12

TICKETS: airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

‍

Rock legends Dragon are touching base in Airlie Beach this November, in a performance not to miss. Photo supplied

‍

Time to get the girls and guys together for an easy-going long lunch, perfectly catered by Coral Sea Resort, paired with Bird In Hand wines, and set to the backdrop of the beautiful and effervescent Coral Sea.

With a fantastically beautiful, curated menu by Coral Sea Marina Resort Head Chef Michael Dominici, this six course degustation menu spells poise and sophistication.

Each course has been carefully paired with wine, including the very best of oysters, paired with a sauvignon blanc, king prawns with pinot gris and beautiful osso bucco gnocchi with a rose, plus so much more.

And don’t forget the absolutely delectable tiramisu as the final course to send you on your way.

With cruising live music and good energy, this afternoon has been planned to the tee and is not an event to miss.

Dressed in your best whites, this afternoon will be elegant and classy, sophisticated, and sweet.

Relax to the picture-perfect panoramic ocean views, the sound of gentle waves lapping at the jetty, the swaying palms and the cool breeze wafting through your hair.

“This event is a great way to connect with other locals,” said Anna Johnstone, Sales and Events Executive for the resort.

“Our chef has created something different from the menu and his creativity is exciting.”

WHAT: The Long Lunch

WHERE: Coral Sea Resort

WHEN: Saturday, June 25, from 12pm

TICKETS: $150 available through Whitsunday Tickets

‍

Future Dates:

July 23

August 27

September 24

October 29

‍

Food lovers have been excitedly anticipating the arrival of Lazy Joe’s authentic Mexican Restaurant and Bar on the Airlie Beach Esplanade, and it is opening next week!

Specialising in Mexican Street Food with a splash of Texas BBQ, this new restaurant is inspired by true Mexican street food with sauces and marinades made from traditional recipes.

Enjoy Taquitos, Nachos, Quesadillas, Enchiladas, Elotes and more at this fresh, fun, and cruisy restaurant while marvelling at their eclectic décor and furnishings, shipped straight from Mexican markets.

There will also be Frozen Margaritas, spicey cocktails, Mexican beer and an amazing Tequila range that will all be expertly created by the in-house mixologists.

With house cocktails starting at just $9.90, this exceptional Mexican experience, is priced to be affordable, accessible, and great for friends and family to enjoy together or for couples to looking for a cosy evening escape.

Located at 6/1 Airlie Esplanade, above the tattoo parlour, guests can enjoy sea views and a warm breeze from the bifold windows, with a dining experience that makes you feel like you just walked into a traditional Mexican Cantina.

‍

Head on down to the Proserpine RSL this evening for a performance by some incredible female vocalists at the Bright Lights Dinner and Show fundraiser.

Starring Lisa Stanley and three of her talented students, the evening will be a mixture of solo performances, harmonies, and group songs.

Lisa has been performing for over 20 years and she uses this experience to mentor young people in the community with her music club, Music Evolution Project.

Tonight, she will sing alongside three of her star students.

Amber Hinschen is a 15-year-old vocalist and lead singer of Category 5.

Lisa describes her as a “belting powerhouse” who has been part of the club for a year and a half.

Also singing on the night is 13-year-old Meg McKeon who has a unique voice that Lisa describes as “laid back Sunday afternoon music that you could listen to all day”.

Completing the trio of young vocalists is Dominik James who is the lead singer of MyENVY.

She came third in Young Whitsundays Got Talent last year and her band came second.

Tonight’s event will be a lively and dynamic affair with dancing, karaoke and of course the show.

Dinner will also be served to guests.

All proceeds are going directly back towards the RSL and will help fund their new kitchen.

WHAT: Bright Lights Dinner and Show fundraiser.

WHEN: Friday, June 16

WHERE: Proserpine RSL, 27 Chapman Street

TICKETS: RSL

‍

With less than six months to go, the biggest music festival in the Whitsundays is ready to deliver something to everyone again this year and organisers are excited by the latest line-up announcement.  

With 15 venues across Airlie Beach and 50 bands of all genres, Airlie Beach Festival of Music is already shaping up to be an exciting event for all to enjoy.

This year, organisers are welcoming back some classic artists who performed in the festival’s first year.

Ian Moss, iconic Aussie music icon, is “extremely excited to be playing in in 2023, along with my incredible band.”

“The Whitsundays region and the North Queensland tropics is such a beautiful part of our country, so if you can, grab a friend, get your tickets, and get along to see some great acts and music. We can’t wait!” he said.

He will be joined by classic legends Dragon, who also performed at the first festival in 2013.

Frenzal Rhomb guitarist, Lindsay McDougall, said his band dreamed of the Whitsundays when they were young.

“From Hamilton to Hayman, from Daydream to some other ones that I can’t think of right now, and now we get to play there!” he said.

“More importantly, we’re gonna be near Ian Moss! And The Superjesus, Pierce Brothers and more. And Ian Moss! Can we borrow someone’s trimaran?”

Joining this all-star lineup is Lucy Gallant, Chocolate Starfish, Billy Field, and Skunkhour.

King Stingray’s strong vocals are set to cruise through the festival, bringing imagery of connections to home and family, only stepping into the scene in 2020.

Ross Wilson is an essential addition, performing his 50 years of Eagle Rock production with band The Peaceniks.

2022 Passport to Airlie winner Perry Street Park have been making waves and are coming back to wow Airlie Beach once again.

Tourism Whitsundays Chief Executive Officer, Rick Hamilton is looking forward to another big year of the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

“Gavin, the festival founder, and his team have put together the perfect festival that incorporates the whole town seamlessly,” he said.

“From free buses running to and from accommodation houses to having bands in 15 venues and fully-equipped seating so there’s no need for attendees to even take camping chairs, it’s a music festival unique to Airlie Beach,” he said.

“As a tourism-driver, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music has transformed the first weekend of November into the most sought-after weekend outside of school holidays.

“If you want to experience The Whitsundays and some great music acts, I encourage you to book your tickets and accommodation soon.”

WHAT: Airlie Beach Festival of Music

WHERE: Airlie Beach

WHEN: Thursday November 9 to Sunday November 12

TICKETS: airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

‍

Reformed Rockers, The Superjesus, led by frontwoman, Sarah McLeod welcomed to Airlie Beach Festival of Music 2023

Perry Street Park, winners of 2022 Passport to Airlie, set to return with massive success in tow

Rock band powerhouse Chocolate Starfish having been rocking since the 90s. Photos supplied

Back by popular demand, the second annual Whitsundays Songwriter Festival and Residency has just been announced for August 31 to September 4 this year.

Organisers are excited to provide a three-day Songwriter Residential Retreat which includes a diverse and educational program where attendees have the opportunity to learn from some of the best musical minds in the industry.

The event will culminate in a special evening performance by the professional faculty at Paradiso in Airlie Beach on the Saturday evening.

The festival is a brainchild of inspiring local musician, Karen Jacobsen, who performed her pop-orchestral piece, Misogyny Opus, at the MECC last month, and Francesca de Valance, who is the founder of I Heart Songwriting Club.

Professional Australian songwriters of diverse music genres have been invited to attend the 2023 mentorship program, with names expected to be announced soon.

Over the three days the faculty will participate in a retreat, co-writing songs, networking, and sharing their personal experiences in the music industry.

Last year 13-year-old Noah Robertson penned an entire song during the residency and went on to win the Australian National Busking Championship Awards, demonstrating the transformative power of the festival's mentorship and guidance.

Emerging songwriters are encouraged to sign-up to the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival and Residency now and discover how this revolutionary musical community can help you reach your dreams.

The festival is made possible with the support of the Queensland Government through Arts Showcase Program and Whitsunday Regional Council through the Regional Arts Development Fund.

WHAT: Whitsundays Songwriter Festival and Residency

WHEN: August 31 to September 4

WHERE: Yangaro Resort

‍

Last year’s Whitsundays Songwriter Festival and Residency was such a success that it is returning this August

‍

The whole community is invited to formally welcome the whales to our region in a special event hosted by the Traditional Owners of The Whitsundays.

Each year between June and October, thousands of whales – especially Humpbacks – migrate north from the cold waters of Antarctica to breed and give birth within our warm and calm tropical waters.

This year, the community is invited to mark the official start of the 2023 season with a family event on the Airlie Beach Foreshore from 5pm this evening.

Children are encouraged to wear blue to the ceremony and Traditional Owners will invite children to be painted in traditional markings.

They will then be guided to put their handprints on a traditional painting of a mother and calf Humpback to signify the community’s bond and connection with the whales.

In keeping with long-established First Nations ritual, a smoking ceremony will then take place, before an ancient whale chant sung by the Traditional Owners.

Representatives of the Ngaro people will then speak about their cultural connection with the whales and the deep-seated cultural significance of the season’s first whales.

During the event there will also be a pop-up workshop hosted by the Great Barrier Reef Festival and lead by artist Margaret Burgess as part of the Immerse Installation Art Presentation.

A giant whale will make the centrepiece of this activity.

After the formalities and activities, everyone is invited to relax and watch a film by Master Reef Guides about The Whitsundays and the cetaceans that live and visit the area.

This will be followed by Whitsundays Reef Guardian Council’s alfresco screening of The Snail and the Whale movie at 6pm.

WHAT: Welcome To The Whales Ceremony

WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

WHEN: Friday, June 16

TIME: From 5pm-6pm

TICKETS: Free to the community

‍

Come and join the Welcome To Whales event at the Airlie Beach Foreshore this evening. Photo supplied

‍

Internationally renowned superstar comedian Jimeoin is coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel for a massive one night only this July and it will be an evening of unforgettable fun, and non-stop laughter.

This Irish comedian has performed here, there, and everywhere, and next up on his national tour is the one and only, and completely unforgettable, Airlie Beach Hotel.

He is infamous for declaring a tour then adding little spots along the way to share the laughter with and Jimeoin only recently added Airlie Beach to the mix, making this show sure to be a hoot and a half of a production.

Now, Airlie Beach is always set with an eager, engaged, and excited audience, and Jimeoin has already been receiving high praise and accolades for visiting our little neck of the Australian woods, with just over one long month to go before his arrival.

Being a regular face on Aussie television since the early 90s, often performing at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, featuring at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe each and every year, and having insanely popular live tours, Jimeoin will be taking on Airlie Beach and people are excited.

He is known, famous, and beloved for his absolutely cracking one liners, his intimate and personal stand-up comedy, and his charming and witty observations of everyday people and life.

Charming a crowd comes easy to Jimeoin and what a better place to be charmed than at the Airlie Beach Hotel.

Oh, and what will he say about our local Airlie Beach and Whitsundays area, where shoes are sometimes – more like often - optional, a tan is mandatory, and a cool and refreshing beverage on a summer’s day is a must?

Get your ticket now and find out in person what he observed and what he shares!

Jimeoin’s newest tour showcases the very best of his talents, drawing upon two of his beloved classic productions, The Craic and Who’s Your Man?!, both unbelievably funny performances each in their own right.

Combining fantastic elements of these hit shows, Jimeoin has created a show that is the best of the very best, and something not to miss.

Long time fans of Jimeoin will not be disappointed, and newcomers to the comedian’s work will be left stunned and impressed, and all will be coming back for more, you can guarantee that.

Catch this comedic superstar live, up close and in person, at the Airlie Beach Hotel for one night only!

And don’t worry, the Airlie Beach Hotel will look after you, with both seated and standing tickets available, ready for anyone and everyone to catch a peek of this absolutely knee slapping, wickedly exhilarating show.

WHAT: Jimeoin Live

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Wednesday, July 19, from 7pm

TICKETS: https://bit.ly/3VSJqU8

‍

Hilarious crack up Jimeoin makes the trek to Airlie Beach on his national tour

Powerhouse in stand-up, Jimeoin will get everyone slapping their knees and bent sideways with laughter

No one is safe in a live audience with Jimeoin. Be prepared! Photos supplied

‍

Elemental sees the reprise of classic Pixar and Disney animation and inspired storyboards, with a touching tale of unlikely love in a world of living elements.

The main storyline follows Ember, a Fire Person, who works in her father’s corner store, and is struggling with being socially ridiculed for wanting to explore outside her home, Fire Town.

However, one day, she breaks a pipe in her father’s store, flooding the basement.

In with the water cames City Inspector Wade, who is a water person and has been investigating Fire Town’s rundown water system which threatens all of Fire Town.

In a rush decision, Ember joins forces with Wade, to save her father’s shop from going under.

Together, her and Wade work as a team to solve the mystery of what’s going wrong in Fire Town and this partnership marks the beginning of an unlikely yet endearing love story between two characters who could not be more different.

With a touching and intimate soundtrack and stunning visuals, audiences can’t help but root for Ember and Wade’s happy ending, and the resolution and recognition of Fire People, who are often forcibly reserved to only remain in Fire Town and are looked down upon when outside their city.

Employing nuisance ideas of immigration and racial stigmatism, the sustained metaphor of Elementals is subtle and discrete, allowing audiences to think further on modern-day racial tensions.

With no true antagonist to the film, it is solely Wade and Ember’s bittersweet romance that propels audiences through to the end.

Elemental opens in Bowen Cinema on Friday June 16.

‍

This beautiful and endearing love story is full of stunning visuals and touching moments

‍