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Mackay families are invited to enjoy an evening of activities, entertainment and history at the free Light Party at Bluewater Quay on October 31st. Running from 4pm to 9pm, the family-friendly community event offers an alternative to Halloween, with children encouraged to dress as their favourite light-themed or positive characters. This year’s program will include two 30-minute freestyle BMX performances by JC Action Sport, scheduled for 5.30pm and 7.30pm, alongside live entertainment, food trucks and free activities for children. Organisers said the event would combine fun with opportunities for families to learn about historical figures and events associated with the 31st of October. These include William Wilberforce, who was sworn into Parliament on the 31st October and went on to see slavery abolished in 1833, and the Australian Light Horsemen, whose charge at Beersheba during World War I took place on the same date. The program will also explore Martin Luther, who posted his 95 Theses on October 31st, an event associated with the beginning of the Protestant Reformation, and George Müller, who came to faith on the same date and cared for about 10,000 orphans throughout his lifetime. Children can discover these stories through hands-on activities, with fortress building, weaving, horse racing, printing, cookie decorating, light-themed craft creations and fishing among the options on offer. The event aims to bring families together for an evening of entertainment, creativity and learning, with activities designed to engage children of different ages. With free activities and live performances planned throughout the evening, families can drop by Bluewater Quay and take part in the celebrations. The Light Party will run from 4pm to 9pm on Saturday 31st October, at Bluewater Quay, Mackay. Entry and children’s activities are free, with food available from food trucks. Last year’s Light Party brought Mackay families together at Bluewater Quay for an evening of free activities, entertainment and historical storytelling as an alternative to Halloween. Photo source: Light Party Mackay
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BY GEORGIA MCDONALD Welcome back to the musical hot seat. This week we sat with Peta Richards, whose love of country music has taken her from the rodeo circuit to the Whitsundays, where she continues to perform and share her love for music with the community. Music has been part of Peta's life since the age of eight. She taught herself guitar, began writing her own songs and eventually formed a band with her cousins called Shiraz. “There was a big family bond with music,” she reflected. Shiraz travelled throughout western Queensland, performing at rodeos and camel races, as well as appearing as guest artists for country music performers Adam Brand and Beccy Cole. They also took home the Best Overall Prize at the Charters Towers Country Music Festival in 2008. Having six children meant Peta's performing days slowed down, but music was never something she walked away from completely. After moving to the Whitsundays, Peta continued performing while putting down roots in the local music scene. In 2023, she joined forces with three partners to open local karaoke bar, Lola's. One of the things Peta loves most is seeing people come out of their shells and watching shy singers grow in confidence on stage. While Peta has spent years performing covers, she's now stepping into a new chapter by releasing her own original music. Her debut single, Don't Send Me No Roses, came out in June and tells the story of betrayal and reaching the point where enough is enough. Peta also performs at venues around the Whitsundays, with her own original songs on the setlist, and is set to take to the stage at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music. Despite years of performing, Peta still gets the same enjoyment out of getting on stage. While playing in a band has its perks, performing solo means all eyes are on her, which can be both nerve-racking and rewarding. For Peta, there's nothing better than seeing a crowd enjoying themselves and connecting with the music. When it comes to her own music taste, Peta is still a country girl at heart, with Shania Twain remaining a longtime favourite. She's also loving newer artists like Ella Langley, but for Peta, music is about more than just a catchy tune, with the right song having the ability to lift someone up when they need it most. With country music, Peta has a love for the lyrics: “They actually really tell stories.” It's something she's hoping to capture in her upcoming release, Let's Make a Stand, which encourages people to reach out and support those who may be struggling. The song is also a family affair, with her daughter contributing backing vocals and harmonies. With the Airlie Beach Festival of Music just around the corner, Peta is looking forward to sharing her original music with the crowd. After years of performing covers around the Whitsundays, it's an exciting opportunity to showcase her songwriting. And with more original music on the way, there's plenty more to come from Peta! Song Recommendation For This Week: Upcoming Release: Let’s Make a Stand – Peta Richards What? Airlie Beach Festival Of Music Where? Airlie Beach When? 6-8th November
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Fresh songs and a chance to learn from some of Australia’s leading songwriters will take centre stage when the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival returns for its sixth year. The festival returns from June 2–6, 2027, with Saturday June 5 set aside for music lovers to join the fun at the Whitsunday Sailing Club through workshops and live performances. The daytime Songwriting Summit and workshops will welcome emerging and experienced songwriters, along with anyone curious about how songs come together. Visitors can hear from professional songwriter mentors about their craft, while local writers will have opportunities to showcase their own work. For event organizer Karen Jacobsen, the appeal is giving people a glimpse into a process they might rarely consider when listening to their favourite music. “We demystify that by letting people behind the curtain,” she said. “It's a true celebration of the art and craft of writing songs and being together with other people who are either doing that or love original music. “That's something we're really proud of, preserving that craft of songwriting.” Six professional songwriters will come together at Pinnacles Airlie Beach for the festival’s residency, with audiences later hearing how the songs took shape by enjoying live performances of the newly written material. “It's a very exciting, uplifting event we have because, again, it's just that palpable experience of witnessing brand new creative work performed for the first time,” Karen said. The 2027 lineup is yet to be announced, with artist announcements and ticket updates being shared through the Whitsundays Arts Festival website. Photo caption: WSF 2023 Songwriter Workshop. Photo credit: Tropix Photography
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It’s never too early to get into the Christmas spirit, and Sparkles the guinea pig is already joining the fun, with a name that makes this week’s winning photo a perfect match for the theme ‘Glitter and Sparkles’. Photographed by Shannon Faletti, her daughter’s guinea pig is bringing some festive cheer to the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group. The gleam of the Christmas baubles and glitter scattered around the tree give Sparkles’ festive setting an extra touch of shimmer, while the Santa ensemble makes quite the fashion statement. Congratulations to Shannon for sharing such a sweet photo, and to Sparkles for what looks like a really successful photoshoot! Next week's theme, eyes. Thank you to everyone in the Whitsundays Amateur Photographers Facebook group for sharing another wonderful collection of images.
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Get ready for the ultimate holiday celebration! Christmas Actually, the five-star festive smash, returns to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on December 14th and 15th, promising to be the perfect start to your Christmas season.
Led by Australian cabaret legend Libby O'Donovan OAM, this all-star cast brings the beloved holiday film Love Actually to life with an unforgettable mix of music, comedy, and charm.
Relive the magic of Christmas with iconic songs by Mariah Carey, The Beatles, Joni Mitchell, and more, performed by a star-studded lineup including Joshua Robson (Phantom of the Opera), Alisha Todd (Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves), and Joseph Naim (Come From Away, The TEN Tenors).
A rockstar band of Australia’s finest musicians will bring these festive hits to life in spectacular fashion.
Filled with quirky moments, nativity lobsters, and plenty of laughs, Christmas Actually is the ultimate feel-good show of the season. It’s a festive treat for all ages!
WHAT: Christmas Actually
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: December 14–15
Tickets: $53–$69
Friday 13 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers(7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Scotty Wilson (4pm–8pm)
Saturday 14 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sex & Chocolate (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm–8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm–6pm)
Sunday 15 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sex & Chocolate (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6:30pm–9:30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm–8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm-6pm)
Thursday 19 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm–9.30pm)
December
13 FREE Adult Christmas Craft Workshop, Cannonvale Library, from 10am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
14 Book Launch, Beach Book Boutique, Airlie Beach, from 11am
14 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
15 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
15 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 2pm & 6.30pm
18 Mada’s Magic Marvels, from 11am and 3pm
22 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
30 Dune Rats, Magnums Airlie Beach, from 7:30pm
30 New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Airlie Beach Foreshore, Bowen Foreshore, & Collinsville Showgrounds, from 8:30pm
The Whitsunday Carols on the Beach event attracted a vibrant crowd of over 1,000 attendees this year, with clear skies adding to the festive atmosphere.
Event highlights included dazzling roving angels on stilts, playful hula-hooping elves, and the long-awaited return of local kindergarten children performing for the first time in years—a heartfelt moment that quickly became a crowd favourite.
There was also a wide variety of food stalls, offering a mouthwatering selection from waffles to wood-fired pizza, catering to all tastes.
With such a successful event, organisers are already gearing up for next year, promising an even grander celebration that will build on this year’s festive spirit...
The annual Whitsunday Carols on the Beach event was a resounding success, with attendees enjoying an evening of festive fun under clear skies.
Despite initial rain concerns, the event was spared.
"Everyone was obviously very happy that it didn't rain," said Caitlin McLuskey (Mrs Claus) reflecting on the good fortune of weather.
This year's carols featured an exciting mix of entertainment, including roving angels on stilts and hula-hooping elves, which received lots of positive feedback from visitors.
"Quite a few people commented that they really enjoyed the additional entertainment aspects," noted Caitlin.
One of the biggest highlights was the performance by local kindergarten children, who performed on stage for the first time in several years.
"For me, my personal highlight was seeing the little kindy kids get on stage.
“They were just so cute," Caitlin shared.
With food stalls offering everything from waffles to pizza, and more than 1,000 attendees filling the lawn, the event was a true community gathering.
"It was packed, maybe 1,000 to 2,000 people. The lawn was full," said Caitlin.
Plans are already underway for next year's event, promising even more festive cheer.
"We're looking forward to seeing everyone again next year and making it even bigger and better," Caitlin added.
Looking for activities to get yourself in the festive spirit this December?
Here are all the events you need to attend to get Christmas ready!
• CHRISTMAS LIGHTS COMPETITION– enter by 15th December 2024.
• BOWEN CHRISTMAS STREET PARTY – Friday 29 November, Bowen Town Centre, 5pm - 9pm
• MURROONA GARDENS CHRISTMAS CAROLS – Saturday 7 December, Murroona Gardens, 6pm
Library Activities:
All four of our regional libraries - Bowen, Collinsville, Cannonvale, and Proserpine - invite you to join in a week of daily self-led Christmas craft activities.
• 16 - 20 December | 9:00am - 4:30pm SELF LED CRAFT ACTIVITIES No booking required
Proserpine Entertainment Centre:
Live Shows
ANDREWS & BING CHRISTMAS SWING
Friday 6 December 11am
TONI CHILDS: A RETROSPECTIVE
Saturday 14 December, 7.30pm
Sunday 15 December 2pm
CHRISTMAS ACTUALLY: The music of love actually live on stage 7.30pm
Wednesday 18 December 11am & 3pm
MADA’S MAGIC MARVELS
Cinema
7-9 December GLADIATOR II
7-9 December WICKED
19 December - 1 January MOANA 2
19-24 December RED ONE
26 December - 8 January SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 Cinema
Many people kick off the festive season by settling in to watch Love Actually—a beloved holiday tradition. But this year, why not elevate the experience with Christmas, Actually.
Join the Proserpine Entertainment Centre for a sensational live performance of your favourite tunes from the iconic Love Actually soundtrack. This festive celebration is set to bring the magic of the holiday season to life with a rockstar band featuring some of Australia’s top musicians and vocalists, including Joshua Robson (Phantom of the Opera), Alisha Todd (Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves), and Joseph Naim (Come From Away, The TEN Tenors).
Led by Australian cabaret icon Libby O’Donovan OAM, this all-star cast will deliver the timeless hits from the beloved holiday classic Love Actually, infused with plenty of charm, comedy, and holiday cheer. It's the perfect way to make your Christmas extra special!
Bursting with nativity lobsters, cinnamon sticks and endless fun, Christmas Actually is the ultimate silly-season starter.
Tickets are selling fast, so don't miss out! Be sure to secure your spot by calling the friendly team at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on 0494 504 05.
What: Christmas Actually?
When: Saturday 14th December, 7:30pm & Sunday 15th December, 2pm.
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
Christmas Actually is coming to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre this December!
The Airlie Beach Hotel invites you to celebrate the holiday season with its mouthwatering Christmas Lunch buffet this Saturday, 7 December, from 12pm to 2:30pm. This festive feast promises a delicious variety of hot and cold dishes to suit every palate.
The Hot Selection includes classic favourites like honey-baked ham with honey mustard sauce, roast lamb with rosemary gravy, and roast chicken pieces with gravy. Indulge in comforting sides such as broccoli and cheese macaroni, garlic and rosemary roasted potatoes, minted steamed vegetables, and freshly baked bread rolls. For dessert, savour traditional Christmas pudding with custard or chocolate cherry pudding.
The Cold Selection offers creamy pasta and smoked potato salads, fresh prawns, curried mango coleslaw, and sweet treats like pavlova, mango and macadamia cheesecake, brandy snaps, ice cream with toppings, and assorted lollies.
Make this Christmas memorable with a delectable meal at the Airlie Beach Hotel!
This non-alcoholic christmas punch recipe is the perfect holiday drink. It can be made in a big batch for a christmas party or for 1.
If you're hunting for an easy, delicious non-alcoholic Christmas punch, you've found it. Planning a holiday event can be busy enough without having the additional task of preparing and serving drinks, so why not whip this up in advance and your guests can serve themselves!
INGREDIENTS
• 2 cups Low sugar cranberry juice
• 1 cup Orange juice
• 1 cup Pineapple juice
• 2 cups Sparkling apple juice or cider *see notes for low sugar option
• 1 cup Ginger ale
• Orange slices, cranberries, pomegranate seeds and/or cherries for garnish
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Mix cranberry, orange and pineapple juice in a punch bowl or large jug.
2. Add sparkling apple juice/cider and ginger ale and mix gently.
3. When you're ready to serve, add ice and fruit of your choice to garnish.
Notes: For a lower sugar option, use sparkling water or sugar free lemonade instead of sparkling apple juice.
Mindfulmocktail.com
Prep Cook Serves
20m 05m 6
As Beyoncé famously says, "I don’t think you’re ready for this jelly!" And trust me, you’ll want to be. These mini-Christmas pudding jellies are made with a surprisingly delicious chocolate jelly (yes, it sounds unusual, but it works!) and are topped with a luscious white chocolate drizzle. To add the perfect festive touch, they’re decorated with chopped spearmint lolly leaves and M&M’s Minis, making them the cutest individual Christmas desserts ever!
Ingredients (9)
• 125ml (1/2 cup) water
• 1 tbsp gelatine powder
• 110g (1/2 cups) caster sugar
• 250ml (1 cup) water
• 100g dark chocolate, chopped
• 6 Arnott’s Choc Ripple biscuits
• 50g white chocolate, melted
• Spearmint leaf lollies, chopped, to decorate
• Red M&M’s Minis, to decorate
• Step 1
Place the 125ml (1/2 cup) water in a small bowl. Sprinkle with the gelatine and stir until well combined. Place the sugar and 250ml (1 cup) water in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until the sugar dissolves. Bring to the boil then remove from heat. Add the chocolate and stir until melted and smooth.
• Step 2
Pour the gelatine mixture over the warm chocolate mixture. Stir until the gelatine dissolves. Place in the fridge, stirring occasionally, for 30-40 minutes or until slightly thickened.
• Step 3
Stir the mixture until smooth. Place a 6-hole 100ml (7cm diameter) silicone dome mould on a baking tray. Divide the mixture evenly among the holes. Place a biscuit on top of each one. Place in the fridge for 6 hours or overnight until set.
• Step 4
Gently loosen each jelly from the mould by pulling it away from the edges. Place a serving plate or board larger than the dome mould on top and flip so the mould is upside down on top of the plate or board. Gently squeeze each mould to release the jellies.
• Step 5
Drizzle a little white chocolate over each jelly then top with spearmint leaves and M&M’s to decorate.
www.taste.com.au
Prepare to rock, roll and welcome the new year like never before with an ultimate New Year’s Eve celebration at the Airlie Beach Hotel!
To round off 2024 in style, one of the hottest venues along the Whitsunday coastline is gearing up to host an unforgettable night with the Australian INXS Show - a fully immersive, “Wembley-style” tribute to one of the greatest rock bands of all time, headlining the celebrations.
Hold onto to your drumsticks because this epic event will take you on a four-hour journey through the iconic hits of INXS, Aussie rock anthems, and stadium rock classics, all set to a breathtaking original video show.
Fronted by the sensational Dellacoma Rio, whose uncanny portrayal of Michael Hutchence has captivated audiences worldwide, the Australian INXS Show promises an electrifying performance that must be seen to be believed.
With Dellacoma at the helm, the show delivers an authentic six-piece lineup, paying tribute to INXS in a way that will make you feel like you’re at a live INXS concert! Following on from an exhilarating world tour to locations including Dubai, Hawaii, and Singapore, the Melbourne-based band have become an international treasure celebrated for staging a unique, “Australian Made” rock experience for audiences to enjoy.
Paired with the outstanding talents of INXS, its clear this isn’t just any New Year’s Eve event! The night kicks off with a full INXS set, followed by the Aussie Rock Anthem Show, and culminates in a massive Stadium Rock finale. But that’s not all! There will be surprise special guest performers joining Dellacoma Rio on stage to elevate the experience, and during the break, get into the party vibe with the high-energy sounds of GEED UP!
And what's a NYE celebration without a perfect view of the fireworks? The Airlie Beach Hotel offers the best vantage point on the foreshore, so you can enjoy the spectacular fireworks display as you ring in the new year.
Seated tickets are nearly sold out, however there are still plenty of standing tickets available if you're ready to join the party and dance the night away. Don’t miss out on the biggest rock event of the year and grab your tickets for just $79 from Whitsunday Tickets.
Make your NYE 2024 unforgettable at the Airlie Beach Hotel – where the music is loud, the atmosphere is electric, and the memories will last a lifetime!
What: NYE 2024 “Australian INXS Show” plus Rock Anthem Shows and Special Guests!
When: Tuesday 31 December, 6pm.
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel.
Friday 6 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers(7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Live Music (4pm–8pm)
Saturday 7 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Xmas Party Buffet (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Live Music (4pm–8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm)Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm–6pm)
Sunday 8 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: 70s & 80s Cabaret Show (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sam McCann (6:30pm–9.30pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm-6pm)
Thursday 12 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm–9.30pm)
Embrace the true magic and spirit of the silly season this Sunday with the wonderfully festive and highly anticipated Proserpine Community Christmas Market!
A celebrated community event, the market will be held on Sunday 8 December from 8:30am through to 12:30pm at Proserpine’s Cyclone Shelter and promises attendees a world of holiday cheer for both the immediate and wider community to enjoy.
A delightful abundance of holiday treats, handmade crafts and family-friendly activities will be on offer to showcase a plethora of locally made products, with over seventy stall holders offering everything from handcrafted gifts and decorations to tasty indulgences.
Attendees will also be treated to a lively atmosphere created by the talents of the Joy Chimers and other young, local pianists, and what is a Christmas market without a visit from the big man himself? Santa will grace the shelter from 11am to 12pm to spread plenty of cheer, and joy to all.
“Christmas is all about outdoor fun, great food, and spending time with loved ones, all whilst supporting small local businesses. We’re excited to bring that spirit to life with this year’s Christmas market,” said Tarnia Patton, Coordinator of the Proserpine Community Market.
Free balloon animals, wildlife encounters, and facepainting will also be available throughout the event with organisers promising they’ll be something for everyone to enjoy from curating thoughtful gifts to soaking up the cheerful atmosphere.
What: Proserpine Community Christmas Market.
When: Sunday 8 December 8:30am to 12:30pm.
Where: Proserpine’s Cyclone Shelter.
December
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
6 Toni Childs: A Retrospective, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
7 Airlie Beach parkrun’s 9th Anniversary, from 7am
7 Women in Boating – On the Reef, Coral Sea Marina, The Lookout Lounge, from 5:30pm
8 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
8 Proserpine Community Christmas Market, Proserpine Cyclone Shelter, from 8:30am
11 FREE Adult Christmas Craft Workshop, Bowen Library, from 10am
12 FREE Adult Christmas Craft Workshop, Collinsville Library, from 10am
12 FREE Adult Christmas Craft Workshop, Proserpine Library, from 10am
13 FREE Adult Christmas Craft Workshop, Cannonvale Library, from 10am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
14 Book Launch, Beach Book Boutique, Airlie Beach, from 11am
14 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
15 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
15 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 2pm & 6.30pm
18 Mada’s Magic Marvels, from 11am and 3pm
22 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
30 Dune Rats, Magnums Airlie Beach, from 7:30pm
30 New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Airlie Beach Foreshore, Bowen Foreshore, & Collinsville Showgrounds, from 8:30pm
The joy and wonder of the festive season are set to shine brightly this Saturday, 7 December, as Murroona Gardens hosts its much-anticipated 2024 Community Christmas Carols.
Held at the Murroona Gardens Wellness Centre in West Lane, Bowen, the event promises an enchanting evening of carols, community spirit, and holiday cheer. Families, friends, and locals are invited to come together to celebrate the season in a magical atmosphere filled with music, fun activities, and festive treats.
Adding to the excitement is the Christmas Carols Raffle, offering an assortment of fantastic prizes. Tickets are only $2 each or three for $5, with proceeds supporting efforts to make Christmas extra special across the Murroona Gardens care community.
Tickets are available at several local businesses, including Murroona Gardens Admin, Bowen Meat Supply, BiRite, and more. The raffle will be drawn during the event, so don’t miss your chance to win while giving back to the community.
Bring your holiday joy and join the celebration of the season. With festive music, a warm community atmosphere, and the magic of Christmas in the air, this year’s event promises to be one of Murroona Gardens’ most memorable yet.
What: Murroona Gardens Community Christmas Carols
When: Saturday 7 December, 6pm
Where: Murroona Gardens Wellness Centre, West Lane, Bowen
More Information: Contact Sally at pa@murroona.com.au
The Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors had the opportunity last week to join Cherene from Driftwood Tours on a 3-hour Airlie Highlights tour. On her clean, comfortable bus, the Ambassadors were treated to a behind-the-scenes look at some of the hidden gems in the Airlie Beach area that Cherene introduces to cruise ship guests.
A highlight of the day was the stunning vista and photo ops offered by the lounge at Shute Harbour Terminal. The group also discovered some tucked-away spots at Shute Haven, where they enjoyed panoramic views of the islands. Cherene then led the group to the small reserve by the water at Mandalay, surrounded by mangroves, towering hoop pines, and a refreshing breeze. And to everyone's delight, they stumbled upon a surprise outdoor chapel—who knew! The afternoon wrapped up with a visit to the highest point on Seaview Drive, offering more breathtaking views and perfect photo opportunities of Airlie Beach and Coral Sea Marina.
Cherene, with her passion for the Whitsundays history, flora, and fauna, provided fascinating commentary throughout the tour. Even locals who had lived in The Whitsundays for years discovered some new and surprising facts.
Contributed by Cait Fleming, Industry Development & Trade Manager, Tourism Whitsundays on behalf of the Volunteer Cruise Ship Ambassadors
Cruise Ship Ambassadors on Driftwood Tour
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