Whitsunday Christian College is excited to unveil their 2023 musical, showcasing a host of talented students who will soon be on centre stage.

Taking on the exciting screenplay, The Wizard of Oz, over 70 students ranging from Years 3 to 12 have signed on for the project, rehearsing and perfecting their performance for over nine months now.

Jade Shepherd-Smith is Dorothy and is excited to share her newfound skill and love of singing.

“I haven’t really sung on stage before, but I said I’d give it my best shot,” Jade explained.

Acting was something she’s always wished to explore, and with singing now in her repertoire, she is a force to be reckoned with.

Jade got the performing bug two years ago, when she performed in the school’s production, Seussical Jr.

In the previous show, Jade only had one line and this year she is excited to take on a lead character.

She is joined by Shannon Matthews, who plays Scarecrow, who is more than eager to showcase his skills and confidence on stage.

Having a main role in the previous musical, he is excited to perfect his own craft.

“This musical is very different from the last one,” he said.

“This time we have to learn our lines at home, so that rehearsals are mainly just acting with each other on stage.”

Lachlan Riley is a newcomer to musicals, but he has five characters to his name, and is excited to be a part of the performance.

“I only asked for a small role with a few lines, but I was asked to take on other characters, so now I’ve got five!” he explained.

Lachlan plays Guard, Crow, Tree, Poppy, and Monkey, meaning he is on stage for almost the entire performance.

“I want to be an actor, so this is great practice,” Lachlan said.

On the other hand, Evie McLoughlin wants to be a dancer and her roles of Tornado, Ozian, and Poppy are perfect.

“I like my characters because I get to move around a lot,” she said.

“It’s fun, because I do dance outside of school, and being in the Tornado, I move around and I’m not staying still.”

Pollyanna Bartlett is the Junior School Captain, and being Ozian and Poppy has encouraged her confidence and public speaking.

“The show has helped me, because I was a little shy sometimes, but now I’m very energetic and excited on the stage,” Pollyanna explained.

With over 70 students from both Junior and Senior Schools involved in the cast and backstage, the musical is a big production.

“It’s different, because you can’t always be with your friends, and you get to interact with a bunch of different students from different year levels,” Shannon explained.

Lenny Pennell is the Musical Director and school’s Arts Coordinator and is excited for the student’s hard work to be showcased to the wider community.

“It’s a classic story, with a lot of familiar songs, but with a modern twist to it.

“The production showcases all the creativity and talents of our school, and the joy the students feel when on stage, is great!” she explained.

Tickets are selling fast for this exciting production, with two show times available over two days. The College is excited to welcome Proserpine Nursing Home to enjoy a trip down memory lane as they reminisce of this classic and enjoy the first matinee performance.

WHAT: Whitsunday Christian College: Wizard of Oz Musical

WHERE: Whitsunday Christian College Auditorium

WHEN: Friday October 6 and Saturday October 7

TICKETS: www.trybooking.com/CJZAF

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The Everly Brothers And Buddy Holly Are Coming To Airlie Beach

Classic 50s and 60s rock and roll is making its way to Airlie Beach Hotel this September, with the enigmatic Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly Tribute Show.

Bringing effervescent rock and roll charm, the show will not miss the top tunes and hit tracks.

Legendary rockers and all-time stars are Rick Gauci and Steven Burns, the two iconic men behind the show.

‘It’s so easy to fall in love’ with these tunes, and the sheer appeal and stage presence of Rick and Steven, who have been perfecting their craft and their art, ensuring ‘Words of love’ will flow over us this September.

Being dedicated, life-long fans of the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly, Rick and Steven have been lovingly recreating these iconic classics, a ‘Brand New Heartache’ for us to love and enjoy, not missing a beat with the charm and charisma.

Sometimes ‘I wonder if I care as much’, because these two shows will be powerful, full of charm and electric sounds.  

‘All I have to do is dream’ about this music, and the Airlie Beach Hotel is looking after us.

But don’t worry, because Steven and Rick are also bringing the entire rock and roll discography with them, including the likes of Elvis and an extensive lineup of classic 50s and 60s rockers, sure to round out the afternoon with fantastic energy.

Full of nostalgia, fun and, ‘Maybe Baby’ charm, the Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly presence will take Airlie Beach back to the past.

Take this journey with us and celebrate the good ol’ times, with this iconic show.

With a performance synonymous with a good time, excitement, and fun, so now ‘Listen to me’, this is not a show to miss!

WHAT: The Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly Tribute Show

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday September 23 and Sunday September 24, 2pm to 5.30pm

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Steven Burns and Rick Gauci are invigorating the classic 50s and 60s rock and roll music scene

Perfecting their craft for years, Steven and Rick are ready to make Airlie Beach rock

Cruisy rock and roll for Airlie Beach Hotel this September

Authentic and honest, Everly Brothers and Buddy Holly tribute

Get prepared for a show not to miss! Photos supplied

Welcomes 1180 Players To Field

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

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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

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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

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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

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Friday 8 September

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

Saturday 9 September

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

Sunday 10 September

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

Tuesday 12 September

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

Wednesday 13 September

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 14 September

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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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Outrageous Comedic Duo Visits Airlie Beach

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

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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

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