
On March 7th and 8th, Late for Woodstock will be gracing the stage to recreate the iconic music of rock history’s most celebrated performances. The tribute act formed in May 1988 in Noosa Heads to bring back the authentic sounds of the 60s and 70s. “We kind of bumped into each other at Noosa and decided to throw a band together”, said singer and guitarist Colin Germano. “We wanted a name that would reflect what we wanted to play, which was older stuff. Beatles, Stones, The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Creedence, Doobie Brothers – stuff like that”. After various hiatuses and a break during Covid, the band and back and ready for action. “We just stick to our roots. We play the stuff that we love. Nothing more than that. We play what we love and are fortunate people still want to hear that”. The band are no strangers to the Airlie Beach foreshore. “We played there back in 1985 when it was the old pub. We were part of a circuit. We’d go up there, bash it out and have a great time”. Airlie Beach remains a special place to perform. “We just love Airlie Beach. We’ve been going there all these years. When we perform here, I like to go up early and hang around town – catch up with friends – see the islands. The pub has always been really good to us. It’s a unique place”. Get excited for a wealth of timeless music as the tribute act are set to honour The Doors, CCR, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Neil Young, The Kinks, Santana, The Rolling Stones, Rodriguez and Bob Dylan among many others. WHAT: Late for Woodstock, 2 Free Shows WHEN: March 7th – 8th, 2.30-5.30pm WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel Late For Woodstock, coming soon to Airlie Beach Hotel. Photo Supplied
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Friday 27 February Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grandview Hotel: Mike Duff (from 8pm) KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm) Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (1pm – 5pm) Saturday 28 February Airlie Beach Hotel: Bon Jovi (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grandview Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm – 8pm) KCs: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm) Sorrento: Josiah (4 – 7pm) Sunday 1 March Airlie Beach Hotel: Bon Jovi & Foreigner (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm) Coral Sea Marina Resort: KCs: Sam McCann (from 8pm) Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Dan Ahri (2pm – 6pm) Monday 2 March KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm) Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm) Tuesday 3 March KCs: Paul Fergus (from 8pm) Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm) Wednesday 4 March KCs: Bear Brewer (from 8pm) Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm) Thursday 5 March Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) KCs: Josiah (from 8pm) Sorrento: Lucy Rose (1pm – 5pm)
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On Sunday 22 February, a group of writers, readers and thinkers gathered at the Whitsunday Sailing Club to explore how the Writers Festival could be improved for further iterations. Being held on 13 September, the festival has seen great success in the past, and with a passionate focus group committed to planning this year’s event, the community can expect great things, including a strong spotlight on the talent and creativity that makes up the region. Although smaller compared to larger cities, the Whitsundays has always punched above its weight when it comes to celebrating culture and creativity, and the Writers Festival is a clear sign of that. With various prompts put to the team, including a core discussion theme of What makes literary festivals important? ideas were enthusiastically thrown around. Its evident that a current priority is to consider how the festival can be geared towards children, as with the rise of technology, it is more vital than ever that children can maintain engagement with literature. Further matters were deliberated on and discussed such as: Australian, Queensland or regional local authors that people would like to see present at the festival Ideas for types of sessions and how they could be carried out Ways the festival could best celebrate and involve the unique stories, history, and people of the Whitsundays and North Queensland Little touches, surprises, or special experiences that could be added to make the festival feel unique and memorable In addition to the Writers Festival, the Whitsunday Literary Hearts Awards was also discussed. This festival contains a number of exciting categories – unpublished manuscript, short story (adult and under 18), book cover and curated publication – encouraging locals to put their work out there. The festival is committed to being a leading regional literary event on the national calendar, celebrating Queensland and Australian stories whilst championing the authors who bring them to life. This meeting represents a great start to the year, as the team will continue to discuss, plan and brainstorm ideas. These types of festivals are vital in stimulating cultural growth in the region. The region contains so many wonderful, artists, musicians, poets and general creatives and it is important to see their efforts recognised. Captions Writers, readers and thinkers gathered to discuss ideas ahead of this September's Writers Festival. Photo credit: Sebastian Conidi
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Swapping hard hats for dancing shoes, Jason Mordey will vie for the winning position on stage at the upcoming Dancing With Heart competition. As Managing Director of Anything Environmental, Jason leads a locally owned family business focused on giving back to the community while creating opportunities for people to recycle materials that would otherwise end up in landfill. “We are a business that is all about supporting and giving back to our local community where we can, especially through creating opportunities for the general public to recycle materials and potentially make some money doing it, as well as helping the environment,” he says. Jason began his career as a diesel mechanic before building one of the region’s largest earthmoving and demolition operations. When the Containers for Change program launched, he seized the opportunity to bring it to Mackay. “I hope people remember me for helping create systems that make a real difference for the community and the environment,” he shares. Now turning his focus to the dance floor, Jason promises plenty of energy. “I don’t want to give too much away, but my dance is very full-on from start to finish and exhausting. I love the way it involves the audience with a high-energy performance, with fun and comedy thrown in,” he says. The most challenging part? I could lie and say the backflips, lol. What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation’s work? My father was in the hospital for nearly two years. During that time, I saw first-hand how the Hospital Foundation do the little things to help people staying in hospital, especially long-term patients like my father. They fill in the gaps that are otherwise missed.
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The Paul Bowman Challenge Carnival is back for 2023, with more than 5000 people expected to stream into the region over the weekend.
With over 80 teams from across Queensland participating in the two-day Under 9 Rugby League Competition, Proserpine will be a hive of energy and excitement.
Proserpine has two Braham teams competing, each with 15 boys and girls per team.
Proserpine Whitsunday Junior Rugby League President Justin Follett said, “The aim of the weekend is to see more than a thousand children compete for their club, display good sportsmanship, and enjoy themselves.”
“It’s going to be a great weekend showcasing rugby league in our region, so come out to the Proserpine footy grounds and support your local team playing the greatest game of all.”
WHAT: Paul Bowman Challenge Carnival Rugby League
WHERE: Proserpine Junior Rugby League Fields
WHEN: Saturday September 16 and Sunday September 17, 2023
Thousands of spectators and competitors will stream into Proserpine for the Paul Bowman Rugby League Challenge this weekend. Photo supplied

The much beloved Larrikin Puppets are coming to the region, sure to make these school holidays a hit for children.
Showcasing the fantastic puppets getting up to mischief, these shows are not to be missed.
And followed by an engaging and entertaining Puppetry workshop, everyone will be amused with these rowdy characters.
Friday September 22 at the Bowen QLD Country Women’s Association Hall, at 10am.
Monday September 25, at the Collinsville Community Centre, from 10am.
Tuesday September 26, at Cannonvale Library, from 10am.
Wednesday September 27, at Proserpine library, from 10am.
These completely free shows are open for all community children, with bookings essential.
Contact each library to reserve a spot.
Bowen Library – 4761 3670
Collinsville Library – 4785 5366
Cannonvale Library – 4846 9400
Proserpine Library – 4945 0275

The countdown is on for the next Tiny Homes Fundraiser and organisers are inviting the whole community to Get Lei’d at a lively Hawaiian beach party at Cape Gloucester Resort next month.
Guests will receive a cocktail and lei on arrival before a night of entertainment unfolds.
From exciting crab races to charity auctions and delicious Hawaiian cuisine, the tropical vibes will be in the air and with talented musicians, GFORCE and ViVa Acoustic playing, the dancefloor is guaranteed to be pumping.
Fancy dress is encouraged so don your most flamboyant Hawaiian shirts and grass skirts for your chance to win Best Dressed.
On the night, there will be bus transfers from Airlie Beach, Cannonvale, and Proserpine to Cape Gloucester and back home at the end of the evening.
Camping is also available.
All proceeds go towards the construction of four tiny homes in Proserpine for homeless women over the age of 55.
Get your tickets now, and guarantee a fantastic beach party, perfect for a spring night!
WHAT: Get Lei’d Hawaiian Beach Party
WHERE: Cape Gloucester Resort
WHEN: Saturday October 7, 5pm to 10pm
TICKETS: $100 per person through https://bit.ly/Lei-d_BeachParty

Love was in the air and the congregation were all wearing white on Sunday afternoon when Jill and Phil held a surprise wedding ceremony on the last day of the White on Whitehaven three-day event.
The silica sands were their aisle, and the soothing sounds of the waves were the wedding day music as local celebrant, Annie Lloyd-Lewis invited everyone to share in the love story which was broadcast by loudspeaker across the beach.
Guests and strangers flocked from near and far to witness the special moment and Jill said the whole day was “just magic!”
The couple, who are both in their 60’s, met online on the ‘Silver Singles’ dating app 18 months ago and Jill described their first date at a local café as a surreal moment where they “talked for hours”.
Having both been previously married, Phil divorced for over a decade and Jill a widower, the couple were elated to find love again.
Breaking tradition, Jill proposed to Phil and he immediately agreed, but secretly planned an intimate proposal of his own a few months later.
The couple wanted to have a small, intimate wedding and when they booked tickets to return to White on Whitehaven for the second year running, they decided to make it their wedding day.
With 10 invited guests and over 100 strangers present on the day, Jill and Phil surprised everyone with their wedding plans and, as the crowd gathered, each person was quick to celebrate the special occasion.
Annie Lloyd-Lewis officiated the ceremony, which was heartfelt, humorous and emotional, tears dusting the edges of many eyes.
And after the romantic kiss and declaration of ‘husband and wife’, the couple both stripped down to their swimmers and ran hand-in-hand into the sea.
A perfect Whitehaven Beach Wedding.
Photo credit: Rachael Smith and Bronte Hodge

Central Queensland Blokart Cape Hillsborough Regatta
Friday to Sunday
Watch blokarts gracefully sail down the beach at great speed at Cape Hillsborough for this popular regatta. This is the 15th time this annual event has been held and has become the second-largest blokarting competition in Australia. Free to watch, a sausage sizzle and drinks will be for sale on the beach.
Cape Hillsborough Beach
Wintermoon Springfest
Friday to Sunday
Rejoice in the joy of Spring with music, dance, yoga, meditation, camping , family time and workshops at the stunning Cameron’s Pocket.
Cameron’s Pocket
Friday Jazz @ The Con
Friday, 6:00pm
CQCM Music Staff present Friday Jazz @ the Con featuring Dr David Reaston (guitar), Dr Peter McKenzie (saxophone), Jason Smyth-Tomkins (drums). The September concert will feature vocalist, CQU alumni and staff member, Hayley Kennedy.
Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music
Mackay Livin’ The Dream Expo
Saturday and Sunday
Living' The Dream Expo brings you everything you ever dreamt of owning. Your dream caravan/campervan, car, boat, bike, 4WD, ATV, trailer. Your dream spa, pool, shed. Even your dream BBQ and outdoor furniture.
Mackay Showgrounds
Meet the Artist – Linda Danvers
Saturday, 9:00am to 10:30am
Grab a cuppa and meet Linda Danvers, artist behind the latest exhibition 'Sticks & Stones and Other Inspirations' displayed in the Lagoons Gallery within the Botanic Gardens Cafe.
Linda will explain the unique way in which she created the different artworks displayed and the inspirations behind them. All artworks are for sale, all sale enquiries to be directed to the artist.
Botanic Gardens Café
Gospel Garden Party
Saturday, 2:00pm
This spring celebration promises to be a wonderful celebration of classic Gospel and Gardening glory. The members of the Mackay Anglican Community have been growing plants from their own gardens as a special project to be on display and for sale at the
event. With completely free entry, there will be an afternoon tea available. Attendees can rest and revive in the glory of our North Queensland Spring, while listening to a variety of classic Gospel entertainment from a variety of local performers from Children to Golden oldies who know those tunes so well. Some pure and simple Gospel tunes from Solo performers, duos and trios. All are invited to join. Giant checkers will be on the lawn, and blessings are available in the church. For more information, please contact either Kristi at
admin@mackayanglicans.org.au or Niki at nikipower21@gmail.com or 0411732304.
The gardens to the side of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Gordon Street, Mackay
ACO Collective | Ecstatic Dances
Saturday, 7:30pm
ACO Collective combines Australia’s most talented emerging string players with the professional musicians of the Australian Chamber Orchestra to create a high energy string orchestra.
MECC
Australia A vs New Zealand A
Sunday, 9:30am to 5:00pm
Cricket Australia has selected the Great Barrier Reef Arena to host an exciting cricket series between Australia A and New Zealand A men's teams, finishing with a thrilling One Day game on Sunday, with free entry.
Great Barrier Reef Arena
Jazz in the Park
Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Staff and students from the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music Bachelor of Music course present Jazz in the Park. This event will feature a special guest, renowned vocalist Hayley Kennedy. Relax in the beautiful surrounds of Queens Park and listen to some of Mackay’s finest up-and-coming musicians studying at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music. Free event. Bring a picnic. BYO chairs.
Queens Park
Sunday Live Music – The Feels
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
2023 Aus Poetry Slam Central Queensland Heat
Sunday, 5:00pm to 7:30pm
Think what you've got what it takes to become Australia's next Poetry Slam champion? All you need is an original poem and two minutes on the mic. Two poets chosen by the audience will go on to the Queensland state finals with the chance for a shot at the nationals. Both performers and spectators need a ticket, so grab yours today! Presented by Queensland Poetry Festival.
The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay
Light up the Lake
Sunday, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Every year MAD Cow Coffee, Hope & Healing ‘Light up the Lake’ with lanterns to remember those we have lost to suicide in our community, show our support to those who’s stories continue and honour the survivors. Lanterns are free to anyone attending and are decorated on the night or collected prior and decorated privately with family or friends as a tribute to a loved one. Special guest appearances and live music by Hannah Roberts Music and the Lake cafe will be open. This FREE MAD Cow Coffee, Hope and Healing community event is proudly sponsored by Wake House Australia, Get It Done Training and Hannah Roberts Music.
Wake House Australia
BMA Kidspace
Tuesday, 10:00am
BMA Kidspace, Artspace Mackay’s free and ever popular toddler’s program, gives children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of cooperative 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
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
Mackay Riverside Market
Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm
Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and desert.
Bluewater Quay
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One of the changes I’ve noticed in the way of the world is the growing trend for people to see things as either black or white, people as either good or bad. There’s no acceptance or awareness of nuance … you’re either “with us or agin’ us”.
It’s becoming a world without grey areas and some of the big issues of our time highlight what I mean.
Take climate change. If you do not totally embrace Australia’s net zero philosophy and agree 100 per cent with the government’s approach irrespective of any economic and social damage it may cause then you are a “climate change denier”.
You might support reducing emissions but believe energy security and affordability is a vital component of the transition. You might argue that we need to maintain the reliability of our network until renewables can effectively do the job … but that makes you a climate change denier because you are not with the program 100 per cent of the way.
The Voice to Parliament and Executive Government is another hot one.
The way the narrative is being presented, if you do not support the yes vote you are racist. You are either racist and voting no or not racist and voting yes.
In this new world there are only good guys and bad guys. You can’t possibly want indigenous people to be recognised and their lot to be improved and, yet, vote no to the voice because you are concerned about changing the constitution and the fact you do not understand how the voice is going to operate as a bureaucratic entity.
You might want more information, more certainty about how it will work, a better explanation of the legal and bureaucratic impact but in this world of good guys and bad guys you are racist and that’s why you’re voting no.
What does this adversarial world that lacks grey areas mean for real estate?
A listing agent like me works for the seller. The seller pays my commission and a central part of my legal and ethical obligations is that I do everything I can to get the best possible price for the seller.
Does that mean I don’t care about buyers? Do I think the buyer is an adversary, someone who has to be defeated for the sale to be considered successful? No, that would be ridiculous.
The real world is not one of adversarial conflict and extremes. The fact that I work for the seller does not mean I work against the buyer.
My first duty is absolutely to the sellers but to successfully negotiate a contract for them I need to keep the deal together … that means I need to understand and communicate the buyer’s concerns and reservations.
I need to be able to move between the buyer and seller so that the seller understands what is going on, what the obstructions might be to getting a deal done.
In a world that tries to create a simplified divide of friends/enemies, good guys/bad guys, republicans/monarchist, environmentalists/climate deniers, progressives/right-wing extremists, there is room for an agent to work all-in for a seller while creating a friendly, informative, respectful and engaging environment for the buyer.

It’s the small things in life that we take for granted, until they’re lost. Like having access to transport, clothes on our back, the taste of clean drinking water and the one that most recently I realised was a high priority of mine, having a shower in your own home.
Now I’m not going to pretend like this isn’t a good thing, my house is getting a bathroom renovation at the moment. However, it has made me understand the privilege it is to have a shower first thing in the morning to wake me up and showering as part of my night-time wind down ritual.
I’ll be the first to admit I’m not much of a camper, my idea of slumming it is either in a caravan or a large tent with at least access to power and a toilet block close by. I’m not one to take off for the weekend on a camp just for the fun of it, but this past week I have been doing ‘camping adjacent’ by showing wherever I can. Between work and my family’s farm, it seems that this will be the next month of my life – who knew that a full bathroom makeover takes this long!!
The unfortunate consequence for the people around me as part of this adjustment I’m having to make is that I, who is always late to everything, am only going to be later to everything (SORRY BOSS). So please, for me, when you jump in the shower this morning/evening in your own bathroom in your own home - soak up how lucky you are for an extra minute.
All jokes aside there are around 122,500 homeless people in our country that don’t have access to safe accommodation let alone a shower, and a huge number in our region alone - estimated to be more than 1,200 - so don’t take for granted the access we have to life’s spoils. That’s escalated substantially since the estimated 700 homeless from the 2016 census. If you or someone you know is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, there are some great organisations in our region to reach out to, such as the Mackay Women’s Centre, Vinnies Homeless Hostel, the Salvo’s, CASA, Chances Café, Orange Sky and of course Mackay's Sleep Bus.
Kaley

A new second-hand clothing market is coming to Mackay this month aimed at promoting sustainability, affordability, and community engagement.
Healthy, Clean and Green is pleased to present the first Sweet Repeats, a market event that will have clothes for men, women and children.
By participating in the Sweet Repeats event, stall holders and shoppers will be actively helping the environment and supporting members of the Mackay community.
Selling and purchasing second hand clothing reduces textile waste and minimizes our carbon footprint.
By actively extending the lifecycle of clothing, we can collectively make a significant impact on the fast fashion industry which in turn will have a positive effect on the environment.
Customers can discover unique, stylish pieces that won’t break the bank, allowing them to express their individuality without compromising on their budget and stallholders can turn preloved wardrobe items that they no longer wear into cash, which for some could help to ease financial pressures.
Healthy Clean and Green advocates making better choices for the environment and as such there will be a big focus on making Sweet Repeats a low-waste event.
They are encouraging customers and stallholders to bring along their own water bottles, coffee cups and shopping bags.
MAD Cow Coffee will be in attendance on the day and will noy be providing single use takeaway cups, instead offering a ‘mug library’ that people can utilise if they forget to BYO.
For further information please contact Healthy, Clean and Green Owner/Manager Wendy Steindl at wendy@healthycleanandgreen.com.au or visit www.healthycleanandgreen.com.au.
WHAT: Sweet Repeats Second-Hand Clothing Market
WHEN: Sunday, September 17
WHERE: CQ Uni City Campus, Sydney Street, Mackay
Healthy, Clean and Green Owner/Manager Wendy Steindl

Founded in 1964, the National Boys Choir of Australia has established itself as one of Australia’s finest treble choirs.
This month, the choir is delighted to be performing in St Paul’s Church in Mackay as part of its 2023 North Queensland Tour, joined by Artistic Director Andrew Bainbridge and Accompanist Jane Matheson.
The program will include classical, folk and popular songs, including ‘For the Beauty of the Earth’ by choir patron John Rutter, and works by Australian composers Colin Brumby, Ruth McCall, Dan Walker, Nicholas Buc, Todd McNeal and Lyn Williams.
The choir is made up of approximately 200 boys aged between seven and 15, all commencing with a two-year training period before moving into the Performing Choir.
Choristers are trained in the traditional bel canto style, their repertoire including music ranging from early motets through to contemporary commissioned works and fully staged children’s operas, as well as musical comedy, art songs and folk songs from around the world.
The choir is often called on to sing with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Opera Australia and Victorian Opera, their busy schedule including regular television, recording and major event appearances such as the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games, Grand Prix, Bledisloe Cup and Carols by Candlelight at the Myer Music Bowl since 1988.
The National Boys Choir of Australia will be joined in Mackay by the Mackay Choral Society, directed by Nicole Thomson.
WHAT: The National Boys Choir of Australia
WHEN: Wednesday, September 20 from 6:00pm
WHERE: St Paul’s Uniting Church, 21 MacAlister Street, Mackay
TICKETS: Trybooking

Written and released in 1969, Fortunate Son, has become one of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most famous anthems, epitomising the sound, spirit and attitude of late 60’s Rock n Roll.
Following successful tours throughout Victoria and South-East Qld in 2022, The Creedence Boys are keeping this classic and iconic music alive for everyone to reminisce and enjoy. The band can’t wait to gear up and hit the road for their North Qld fans who keep coming back to appreciate this high energy show.
World-class lead singer, Andre Lemberg, is the embodiment of brilliant songwriter, guitarist and singer, John Fogerty - legendary front-man of Creedence Clearwater Revival. He gives-his-all, delivering that powerful and emotive Fogerty voice we all love.
He is joined onstage by an all-star band of musicians who regularly play with Angry Anderson, Mark Gable of the Choirboys and have shared stages with Uriah Heep, The Offspring, Jimmy Barnes, The Angels and more. This combination is the very driving force of why this is arguably the greatest John Fogerty Tribute in the world.
As a bonus, audiences enjoy some Texas boogie to open the show, with Oz ZZ TOP ripping through a fun set of greatest hits including Sharp Dressed Man + Tush + La Grange + Gimme All Your Lovin and more!
Experience classic Rock n Roll at its best and sing along to the greatest hits of both CCR and Fogerty’s solo careers:
Bad Moon Rising + Fortunate Son + Green River + Proud Mary + Suzie Q + Run Through The Jungle + Born on the Bayou + Centerfield and many more.
What: Creedence – The John Fogerty Show
When: Friday 6 October Mackay, Saturday 7 October Bowen
Where: Seabreeze Hotel Mackay, Grand View Hotel Bowen
Tickets: Mackay: https://bit.ly/3rKPLX4 Bowen: https://bit.ly/3Dyqx0t

Oktoberfest is coming to Mackay this October long weekend thanks to Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club.
Get ready to experience authentic German music, food, beer and activities for the kids at this family-friendly event – what better way to spend your long weekend?
Townsville’s Frankfurter Oompah Band will be coming down to provide authentic German entertainment and there will be a selection of Gotzinger German sausages and pretzels for sale along with other treats.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay Regional Council was pleased to support this great fundraiser through the Invest Mackay Events and Conferences Attraction Program.
“The program aims to attract visitors, generate positive economic results and foster community pride,” Mr Williamson said.
“This event is a perfect example of a community event that takes advantage of our beautiful locales and brings everyone together in the great outdoors for a day of fun.”
Oktoberfest will take place on Sunday, October 1 from 12pm to 5:30pm.
Tickets can be purchased for $20 adult and $5 child.
The adult tickets include admittance to the event and a souvenir mug to fill with German-style beer.
Kids tickets include face painting, a giant slide and rock climbing wall for the kids.
This event is one of the largest fundraisers for the Eimeo SLSC and helps to ensure lifesavers are able to patrol our beaches and provide junior activities.
If you are interested in volunteering at Oktoberfest please visit www.eimeoslsc.com.au/oktoberfest.

If you are an orchid lover, don’t miss Mackay’s Orchid Extravaganza at Queens Park next Saturday.
The annual event will see hundreds of orchids on display at the Ken Burgess Orchid House on Saturday, September 16, from 8am to 3pm. There will also be orchid and plant sales, demonstrations and raffles.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the event would be free for the community to attend.
“Council is committed to improving the liveability of our region,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Providing more entertainment and events is crucial to achieving this goal,” he said.
“Events like this appeal to a wide range of people, from the most experienced gardeners to those who just want a chance to admire the exquisite orchids on display.
“Orchid experts will be available on the day to provide helpful tips and tricks for growing orchids in our climate and share their personal experiences.
“If you’ve ever wanted to incorporate orchids into your garden, the Orchid Extravaganza is the perfect opportunity to discover what is available and to find out what would best suit your garden and lifestyle.”
Food stalls will also be available for those who want to grab a bite to eat or a hot/cold drink at the event.
For more information visit the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens website.

Prepare to be outrageously entertained, unprecedentedly overcome with laughter, and struggling to stay in your seat, with these hilarious Australian women Ellen Briggs and Mandy Nolan performing their absolutely cracker comedy show, Women Like Us at the Airlie Beach Hotel this September.
For one night only, this comedic duo will command the stage, with fierce, sharp, and brutally honest stand up comedy.
Only occasionally self-depreciating, but 100 per cent irreverent, Ellen and Mandy will share anything and everything, from farting at yoga, being menopausal and dealing with teenage angst, and tight-lipped sales assistants.
This brand of humour is touching honest and intimately hilarious, fuelled with the warmth of comedians who understand the true nuance of Australian comedy, perfectly in tune with classic regional audience.
Growing up in Mullumbimby, a small town in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales, Ellen and Mandy know the best one liners to get any small-town rolling.
With this perfect recipe, Airlie Beach will be in stitches this September.
And don’t miss Mandy’s crack ups, from her stint running for MP, as a Greens candidate for Richmond at the Federal election before she came close to winning, and realising that politics was not for her.
Selling out over 250 shows across Australia, and breaching the barriers of the Melbourne Comedy Festivals, these ladies will leave no comedic rock unturned, exploring every aspect of being the classic Aussie woman and Aussie mum.
Stemming from an idea for a novel, to the written word, to an outrageously hilarious podcast, and now the perfectly sixed travelling tour show, these women know how to make an audience laugh, no matter the medium.
Housework, turning 50, saying goodbye to the kids and becoming empty nesters, aging parents, and sex while drunk are just some of the standard topics of discussion that are sure to get the crowd falling out of their seats.
There is no topic these women won’t discus with an open and eager audience, so be sure to get involved with the show.
Do yourself a favour this September and get yourself a ticket for this absolute cracker of a show, set to bring Airlie Beach into a new era of witty and intelligent comedy shows that are sure to knock you sideways.
WHAT: Women Like Us
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Wednesday September 20, from 7pm
TICKETS: whitsundaytickets.com.au
With small town roots, the comedic duo Ellen and Mandy have the perfect recipe to get Airlie Beach in stitches.
No juicy topic is off limits to these ladies
Be prepared to be laughing nonstop at ‘Women Like Us’ this September
Bringing only the best, ‘Women Like Us’ is not the show to miss. Photos supplied

The Whitsunday Old Iron Restorer’s Club are holding their 2023 Car, 4WD and Motorcycle Show and Swap Meet, a perfect place for all car and motorbike lovers to showcase their trophy engines.
With markets, displays and a small eat street, the day is fun for the whole family.
Don’t miss the Ugly Ute Section, as well as the Stationary Engine Display, and get your picture taken with the amazing vehicles on display.
With all proceeds being donated to local charities, this is not an event to miss.
WHAT: Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club Car Show and Swap Meet
WHERE: Proserpine Show Grounds
WHEN: Saturday, September 23, from 9am
Head to the Whitsunday Old Iron Restorer’s Car Show and Swap Meet. Photo supplied

Since 1873 St Mary’s Catholic School in Bowen has been delivering quality education to the children of Bowen.
And on their 150th birthday, St Mary’s is welcoming any and all members of the community to celebrate the milestone.
Along with an official welcome, cake cutting and blessing with Bishop Tim, the school will be offering school tours with entertainment by current and past students, and a celebration mass.
The celebrations will conclude with a meet and greet evening at Grand View Hotel.
For more information, contact St Mary’s Catholic School on 07 4786 1203.
WHAT: St Mary’s Catholic School 150th Celebrations
WHERE: St Mary’s Catholic School, 39 Poole Street, Bowen
WHEN: Saturday September 9, from 2pm
TICKETS: smbtsv.catholic.edu.au