Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Friday 20 March Dancing With Heart 6:30pm A night of entertainment with a purpose, Dancing With Heart returns on Friday 20 March, bringing local personalities to the stage for a fun-filled dance competition. Guided by professional choreographers, participants will perform to raise funds for the My Hospital Foundation. Guests can enjoy dinner, vote for the People’s Choice Award and help support better outcomes for local patients and families. Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre Saturday 21 March New Moon Ultra “Off the Beaten Track” Trial Run Series 6am Test your endurance at this unique overnight trail running event held under the March new moon. Athletes can choose from 6km, 36km or 72km distances, with races starting every hour from 6pm through to 6am. Prize money is up for grabs, and participants will take on exclusive trails only open for this event — making it a one-of-a-kind challenge for runners of all levels. Rowallan Park Dads and Bubs Baby Bounce 10am Dads are invited to bond with their little ones at this fun and interactive Baby Bounce session. Featuring nursery rhymes, songs and playful activities, the session supports early language development from birth to walking age. It’s a great way to connect, create special memories and support your child’s growth. This is a free event, but bookings are essential. Dudley Denny City Library Autumn Orchid Show Saturday 8am – 4pm & Sunday 9am – 2pm The Mackay & District Orchid Society will host its annual Autumn Orchid Show on March 21–22 at the Senior Citizens Centre on Macalister Street, featuring a stunning display of flowering orchids alongside plants and gardening supplies for sale, including pots, potting medium, tags and hangers, with raffles and refreshments also available; the event runs from 8am to 4pm Saturday and 9am to 2pm Sunday, with a $2 coin entry, and further information is available by contacting President Noel Acton on 0409 637 384. Senior Citizens Centre, Macalister Street Rotary Charity Wine Dinner 5:30pm Enjoy an elegant evening of fine food and wine at the Rotary Charity Wine Dinner on Saturday 21 March. Featuring a five-course degustation with wine pairings, the night also includes a wine auction, raffle and lucky door prizes. Proceeds support charities assisting women and children impacted by domestic violence. Guests can expect a memorable night of dining, giving and community spirit. Harrup Park Country Club Sunday 22 March Cuppa With Your Neighbour – Northern Beaches 9am Connect with your community at this free “Cuppa with Your Neighbour” event on Saturday 22 March at the Northern Beaches Community Hub. Enjoy a complimentary coffee while meeting locals and making new connections in a relaxed, friendly setting. Proudly supported by the Mackay Regional Council, this welcoming event is open to everyone — whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident. Northern Beaches Community Hub Tuesday 24 March Walk and Talk Book Club 8am Combine a love of reading with the outdoors at this unique walking book club set in the Botanic Gardens. Meet fortnightly for relaxed walks, chats and book discussions, with a new title to explore each month. Stay after for a social coffee and connect with fellow book lovers. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, sun protection and water for this enjoyable, wellbeing-focused community activity. Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Wednesday 25 March Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam 6pm Enjoy a night of live music and laid-back vibes at the Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam on Wednesday 25 March at the Seabreeze Hotel. Featuring acclaimed pianist Andrew Farrell, the evening kicks off with a performance before opening the stage for a community jam session. Free entry, with dinner bookings recommended. 72 Pacific Esplanade, Mackay Thursday 26 March Wine Society March Event 6:30pm Wine lovers are invited to the first Wine Society event of 2026 at The Dispensary Mackay on Thursday 26 March. Guests will enjoy an evening of exceptional wine tastings paired with a specially designed menu, hosted by Graeme Connors. Open to both new and returning guests, this relaxed event promises great wine, food and company. The Dispensary Mackay
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The PCYC’s Awakening Spirits 2026 moved audiences on Wednesday 11 March with touching stories told through dance. An audience of more than 1000 was drawn to watch 200 performers in a sold-out session at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre. Awakening Spirits is an annual performance that brings together young people from 13 schools across Mackay, who take part in PCYC's Cultural Arts in Dance program. Since beginning in 2022, the audience has rocketed from just 175 people to a sold-out audience at the convention centre this year. The piece performed was ‘The Waterhole’, a concept and story developed by PCYC Queensland’s First Nations Coordinator and the man behind Cultural Arts In Dance, Patrick Thaiday. It is inspired by the magical stories of The Myths and Legends of the Torres Strait, a book written by the late Margaret Lawrie. The story begins with Tilly, a white sulphur-crested cockatoo, who watches as a plume of smoke rises from the canopy of the Australian outback bush lands. Indigenous warriors and hunters from communities conduct a cultural burn – a land management practice refined over thousands of years. From her vantage point, Tilly observes the hunters moving alongside the fire’s perimeter, tracking animals displaced by its flames. As the story goes on, the waterhole, long a point of convergence for countless species, begins to change. Tilly notices a dark, viscous substance appearing beneath the surface. Drawn by concern she descends to investigate. As her feet touch the water, the substance adheres to her feathers releasing harsh toxic fumes that engulf her feet. She takes flight only to be flipped over by the weight of her wings. Her bright plumage darkens rapidly, and her beak blackens under the spreading poison. When Tilly rises again, she is no longer the white cockatoo she once was. Transformed by the dark waters, she takes form of a willy wagtail – a creature associated with omens, messages, and transitions. This metamorphosis positions her within a larger conflict, linking her fate to forces that extend far beyond the waterholes edge. Now known as Willy the Wagtail, she becomes a bearer of warnings and stories, navigating a world where ancient myth and emerging threats collide. When the story of ‘The Waterhole’ ends, all performers returned to perform a choreographed dance to The Seekers song, I am Australian. We are one, but we are many And from all the lands on earth we come We'll share a dream and sing with one voice "I am, you are, we are Australian" The bright smiles, excitement, and emotion from the performers did not leave many dry eyes in the auditorium; the room filling with a feeling: this is what we want our Australia to be. Contributed with thanks to PCYC Queensland’s First Nations State Partnerships Manager Michael Cedar 1-4 - Spirits were high as Mackay’s young dancing stars took to the stage. Photos supplied.
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Follow the Sun’ to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music Xavier Rudd, Mental as Anything, The Whitlams and more on first lineup announcement for November 2026 The call is out for fans of Xavier Rudd to ‘Follow the Sun’ to the 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music from November 6-8. Set to arrive straight from a European festival tour, the popular Australian singer-songwriter says in addition to his much-loved catalogue of hits, a few surprises are in store for the Whitsunday audience, hinting: “There will be some new music at this show, which will be played for the first time in Australia”. Having visited Airlie Beach briefly on previous Australian tours, Rudd is already familiar with the region’s scenic beauty, but this will be his first time playing its signature event, dubbed a ‘party in paradise’ and the ‘ultimate music holiday’. “From the photos I’ve seen, the festival setting is amazing,” he said. “My music is definitely a celebration of our natural world, so a place like Airlie feels especially aligned with songs like ‘Follow the Sun’. “These are the kinds of shows I love, and hopefully, weather permitting, we can actually pull down the tent and play under the stars!” Equally as famous for his unwavering commitment to social and environmental activism as he is for his extraordinary gifts as a musician, the significance of playing at a destination known as the ‘Heart of the Great Barrier Reef’ isn’t lost on Rudd. “I’ve been lucky to witness some of the good work that people are doing in the world of reef regeneration and that’s inspiring,” he said. “Hopefully we can continue down that path.” Also urging festivalgoers to ‘Live it Up’ in Airlie Beach is beloved Australian band Mental As Anything, whose performance will form part of a historic 50th anniversary tour, comprising a limited number of exclusive festival appearances and select metropolitan headline shows. Original member and iconic pop artist, Reg Mombassa, is promising fans a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience the band’s timeless hits live once more, and celebrate their unique blend of songwriting, artistry, and performance flair. “We’re known for being a party band, so the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is a perfect fit,” he said. In total agreeance that there’s ‘No Aphrodisiac’ quite like it are The Whitlams, whose frontman Tim Freedman says the band is thrilled to be one of the festival’s headliners for 2026. “I’ve been wanting to return to the Whitsundays for decades and now we have the chance,” he said, adding: “it’s a great line-up, music lifts the soul, and we rock!” Other additions to the first line-up release include The Radiators, Adam Harvey, 19-Twenty, Skinny Living (UK), Little Quirks, The Mason Rack Band, The Wayward Suns, Loonaloop, Salt & Steel and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2025 Passport to Airlie competition winners Monroe. Tickets are on sale now at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au costing $325 for a three-day pass, or $1100 for a VIP package, both including entry to the opening and after parties that bookend the main event. Ends Media Enquiries: media@airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au / 0402 126 461
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On Monday 16th March, North Queensland–raised Judah Kelly attended the 98th Academy Awards in Los Angeles, where the short film he starred in, The Singers, was awarded an Oscar. The film tied for the win with another short film, in an Oscars occurrence that whilst rare, is indeed possible. This is a huge achievement that represents years of hard work, building craft and nurturing talent; Judah has no doubt made the community incredibly proud. Born in Townsville, Judah attended school in Bowen where he took part in various school choirs, an experience that inspired his musicianship and developed his performance capabilities. He continued his secondary education in Mackay before attending the Junior Academy of Country Music in Tamworth (NSW). Judah auditioned for the X Factor in 2012 and 2014. Despite not finding success, he was not deterred, deciding to audition for The Voice in 2017. After singing ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ in a blind audition he made it through the finals, where he became the official winner of the sixth season. His newest achievement is receiving the Oscar as one of the stars of short film The Singers, which received an award for Best Live Action Short at 98th Academy Awards. Directed by filmmaker Sam Davis, the film is an 18-minute musical comedy which centres around a spontaneous singing competition that breaks out amongst a group of random patrons in a dive bar. The film is based on the 1850 Ivan Turgenev story of the same name. Prior to the academy awards, the film had already won 35 awards across 50 film festivals in 2025. Judah’s inclusion in the film came out of a unique casting process. Rather than hiring actors through traditional means, filmmaker Sam Davis spent months scouring the internet for authentic voices he believed would bring the story to life. As a result, Judah was sought out for his raw vocal talent. “At first they emailed me to ask me to be in the film and I don’t act so I thought it was just a scam”, Judah said in an interview to Channel Nine’s Today Show prior to the ceremony. “They were very persistent with getting me to act. Then I found out everyone was a first-time actor and we all thought it was a scam. It turned out they did want us for a film – it’s about men and vulnerability”. Following the victory, Judah took to Instagram to express his joy. “We don’t even know how to act. Our film just won an Oscar!” The film tied with another short feature marking only the seventh time in Oscars’ history that a category closed with two winners. This is a fantastic achievement, and Judah should be incredibly proud of his efforts. He has certainly made communities across Bowen and Mackay immensely proud. Captions Judah Kelly, local legend fresh from Oscar win. Photo sourced: Facebook
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With a sea of colourful umbrellas catching the eyes of passers-by, the new location of Airlie’s popular Mexican Restaurant, Mika, is now open and ready for business.
In the heart of the Airlie Beach Esplanade, Mika can be found upstairs at Beach Plaza, extending the full length of the first floor, and offering stunning sea views from almost every table.
With large shade sails, the restaurant is completely weatherproof, and the gentle sea breeze creates a relaxing climate for all to enjoy.
Brought to you by local restauranteurs, Ivan Cortes and Aaron Paull, the foodie-duo first established their popular Mexican burrito bar, Orange Quote, over 10 years ago.
Back then, Mexican food was not well-known in North Queensland but over the years this has changed.
“Now everyone knows the food and loves the cuisine!” said Ivan.
Bursting with fresh, home-made sauces and salsas, everything on Mika’s menu is made from scratch and packed with mouth-watering flavours.
From sizzling Fajita plates to burrito bowls, quesadillas, and tacos, Mika offers classic Mexican dishes infused with an Australian twist.
They also serve tender steaks, Mexican parmis, crisp salads, and chicken wings.
An impressive 95 per cent of Mika’s menu is gluten free and there are also vegan options available.
Strong believers in creating all cocktails from scratch, Mika’s mixologists love creating margaritas and have seven different flavours to choose from.
They also serve a variety of other cocktails, signature sangrias, beers, wines, and other spirits.
With available seating for over 200 people, the restaurant is always lively, and the vibrant Mexican-themed mural art creates a colourful ambient setting that everyone loves.
Whether you are heading out for a budget-friendly family night, a group of friends grabbing a pre-party bite, or a couple looking for an intimate dining setting, Mika can create a special and memorable experience for you.
Did you know?
Happy Hour is daily from 4pm – 5pm
Ivan Cortes and Aaron Paull from Mika
Each week, there are miners, part time teachers, engineers, mums, speech pathologists, Church Leaders, GP’s, and part time chaplains who all volunteer their time to deliver Christian Religious Instruction to our local state schools – a 30-minute lesson where children can explore faith and values.
Then we have our biggest group of volunteers, our amazing retirees (with a lot of past teachers and teacher aides) who bring a lifetime's worth of experiences and seasoned lessons of faith through the approved program.
They become valued Grandparent figures in the life of a school, bringing a highly valued multi-generational element to the children’s educational experience.
The majority of parents in our region have decided to access the program for their children, realising the importance of a holistic education.
However, in order to continue to meet the demand, we need more instructors!!
Could this be something that you may be willing to do?
Do you have faith in Jesus, regularly attend a church and would be willing to do the training?
Or would you be able to allow the program to move forward?
There are many different ways to support the Christian RI program – please contact me at jay-ellen.wright@christianri.org.au or visit https://christianri.org.au if you would like to instruct or find out how you can support Christian RI in Mackay and surrounds!
Jay-ellen Wright
Friday SUN.sets
Every Friday Evening From 6pm
Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.
Wake House Australia
Choirboys
Friday, 6:00pm
Don't miss this unmissable show as Choirboys perform all your favourites, all their hits, all night long. Celebrating over 4 decades together, Choirboys’ back catalogue has a swag of enduring rock anthems including Never Gonna Die, Big Bad Noise, Fireworks, Gasoline, Midnight Sun, Rendezvous, Boys Will be Boys, Struggletown and one of this country’s unofficial anthem, Run To Paradise. Doors open from 6:00pm, Choirboys from 8:00pm.
The Seabreeze Hotel
Open Mic Comedy Night
Friday, 7:00pm to 11:00pm
Last Friday of the month, Open Mic night is on again. Sammy Cole is headlining this month, and Brenden Hayles will be hosting. If you want to try stand-up comedy in a supportive environment, message Mackay Open Mic Comedy Group on Facebook.
Ambassador Hotel
Mackay Disc Sports Come & Try League Day
Saturday, 8:00am to 12:00pm
Come along and learn/play disc golf. One or two rounds of nine baskets on the pop-up course. Prizes for different divisions thanks to sponsors Mt Pleasant Tavern and Kingfisher Disc Golf. All ages and abilities welcome. Meet at the Playground at John Breen Park (Gooseponds). $5 per person. Disc Hire is $10 refundable deposit on return of discs. Anyone under 18 will need a guardian to accompany them. Closed in shoes required.
John Breen Park
Mackay Christian College Open Day
Saturday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm
Join for an exciting Open Day event, where unlimited ride tickets ($35) are available for purchase at Junior and Senior Reception. Don't miss the Powerhouse Auditorium, where the school will showcase the memorabilia of their Alumni.
Mackay Christian College Junior Campus
Insane Cane Train
Saturday, 4:00pm
The Sugar Shed, the 2013 premiership winning Cutters squad and Insane Cane Train – three sugar-themed products of Mackay that the region can be proud of. When six people from differing walks of life and musical backgrounds met in a South Mackay shed to play music, they formed a bond that only playing music in a suburban shed can create. Now, months later, Insane Cane Train are excited to share what they’ve been working on at their debut gig at Red Dog Brewery on August 26. Expect a blend of rock and roll, pop, indie and good times. So, remember: Use your train brain and look out for Insane Cane Train. Dom Pinzone performs from 4:00pm and Insane Cane Train from 6:00pm.
Red Dog Brewery, Chain Street
Elvis - The Sounds Of The King
Saturday, 7:30pm
Get ready to travel back in time to the golden age of rock n roll with the Elvis: The Sounds of the King. Join the Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club on Saturday the 26th of August for a spectacular 2-hour live performance, featuring 2023 European Elvis Championship Finalist Tristan James as Elvis Presley.
Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club
Motorcycle Beach Races
Sunday, 9:00am
Join in for an exhilarating and unforgettable experience at the longest-running, pulse-pounding event in the Mackay region! For over 90 years, the Motorcycle Beach Races has been igniting the skies with the sheer thrill of methanol-fuelled action, set against the backdrop of the stunning tropical paradise. Don't miss out on this extraordinary event that has captivated generations!
The Esplanade, Grasstree Beach
Sunday Live Music – Mango Junction
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
Sunday Afternoon @River Wharves
Sunday, 3:00pm to 6:00pm
Sunday Afternoon @River Wharves, near Paxtons. A relaxed arvo of fun kid's activities, cool tunes, and yummy food. 3pm - 5pm Free Kids Activities including Carlie's Fascinating Faces Face Painting Mackay and Plaster kids - make a free Father's Day pressie. Live music from Jonte and the EST No.8 food van.
River Street, Mackay
Soweto Gospel Choir
Sunday, 7:30pm
Hope is an all-new concert by 3-time Grammy-winning Soweto Gospel Choir - celebrating songs and anthems from the Freedom movement of Nelson Mandela’s South Africa, back to the Civil Rights Movement of Martin Luther King’s 1950’s America. Formed to celebrate the unique and inspirational power of African Gospel music, Soweto Gospel Choir draws on the best talent from the many churches in and around Soweto. The choir is dedicated to sharing the joy of faith through music with audiences around the world and has received critical acclaim and audience adoration for their powerful renditions of African American spirituals, gospel, and folk music.
MECC
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 31 August
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
Choirboys
Mackay Disc Sports Come & Try League Day
Elvis - The Sounds Of The King
Motorcycle Beach Races
Soweto Gospel Choir
Film & Arts Mackay present their next film night for the month of September, a viewing of the 2022 political thriller ‘Cairo Conspiracy’.
The gripping and critically acclaimed new thriller from Swedish filmmaker Tarik Saleh (The Nile Hilton Incident, The Contractor) follows Adam, a young man who is offered the ultimate privilege: to study at the Al-Azhar University in Cairo.
Shortly after his arrival in the city, the university’s highest-ranking religious leader, the Grand Imam, suddenly dies and Adam becomes a pawn in a ruthless power struggle between Egypt’s religious and political elite.
As he struggles to balance a range of competing interests that favour different leaders, he soon finds that he must fight for his very survival as the succession intensifies.
Awarded best screenplay at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival, Cairo Conspiracy takes a rugged look through the lens of corruption, power, and politics in one of the epicentres of Sunni Islamic power.
The film will be screened in Arabic with English subtitles.
WHAT: Film & Arts Mackay September Screening: ‘Cairo Conspiracy’
WHEN: Friday, September 1 from 7:30pm (doors open from 7:00pm)
WHERE: Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music
TICKETS: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1105738
Calen QCWA invites you to their Springtime Festival, a celebration of horticulture, friendship and sunshine.
The Springtime Festival will incorporate a free horticultural competition across many classes, best colourful spring outfit competition, guest speakers, afternoon tea, a lucky door prize and more.
Entry is $10, which includes afternoon tea, and children are free.
There will also be a cent sale and snap raffles throughout the afternoon.
For more information, call Diane on 0421 923 820 or Gail on 0408 694 706.
WHAT: Calen QCWA Springtime Festival
WHEN: Saturday, September 2 from 1:30pm
WHERE: St Helens Bowls Club
ENTRY: $10, children enter free
Artspace Mackay welcomed three new exhibitions last weekend with two local creatives showing alongside a nationally acclaimed video installation artist.
Artspace Mackay’s new suite of exhibitions are Zanny Begg: These Stories Will be Different, Kara Day: Ladylike and Stephen Homewood: Turbulence.
Zanny Begg is a video installation artist who works across drawing, film, social and spatial practice to explore questions of feminism, migration and ecological and intergenerational responsibility.
Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood said the team were excited to have Zanny Begg’s work at the gallery.
Ms Heathwood said Zanny Begg’s exhibition would appeal to a wide audience because her works told fascinating stories in creative and original ways.
“‘These Stories Will be Different’ brings together a fascinating series of works, including one that probes the unsolved murder of a high-profile anti-gentrification campaigner in Sydney in 1975.
“The work, called The Beehive (2018), looks at the story of Juanita Nielsen, who campaigned against the violent eviction of tenants from Kings Cross and Potts Point.
“Nielsen was last seen entering a venue managed by one of Sydney’s most notorious crime bosses.
“What’s fascinating about this work is how Zanny uses an algorithm to create a randomised video installation that allows more than 1344 versions of the story to unfold, each with a unique insight into this unsolved mystery.”
Mayor Greg Williamson said it was tremendous to see two Mackay artists opening in the gallery alongside Zanny Begg.
“Mackay-raised artist Kara Day works across textile, sculpture and watercolour; and while the portraits in this exhibition (Kara Day: Ladylike) can be confronting, they are also really thought-provoking,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Stephen Homewood, who is also a Mackay artist, works in an experimental style that’s really colourful and abstract,” he said.
“His recent works on paper showcase turbulent waterscapes that combine two signature coastal Australia icons – the shark and the surf lifesaver.”
Zanny Begg: These stories Will be Different will be on show until November 12 and Kara Day: Ladylike and Stephen Homewood: Turbulence will be on show until November 5.
Follow Artspace Mackay on Facebook or head to artspacemackay.com.au for more information.
Zanny Begg | These Stories Will be Different is a UNSW Galleries and Museums & Galleries of NSW touring exhibition. This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council for the Arts, its arts funding and advisory body.
Zanny Begg, The Beehive, UNSW Galleries, Photo credit: Steven Siewert
The ‘iron-y’, putting the finishing touches on Kara Day’s exhibition, Ladylike
Artist: Stephen Homewood
Following numerous incidents at a nearby car park, Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) has shared their concern for children’s safety in an open letter to Mackay Regional Council.
The letter, penned by Eimeo SLSC President Cynthia Hegarty, suggests a risk management plan for the car park, located between the clubhouse and Eimeo beach, requesting a boom gate to be installed at the entrance.
Eimeo SLSC President Cynthia Hegarty said that the car park is often used by children to get from the clubhouse and toilet block to the beach, creating the risk of a collision with a vehicle and causing further issues for the Surf Life Saving Club’s beach patrollers.
Just last season, a campervan almost reversed over a child at a Nippers event on a Sunday morning, stopped only by the intervention of a vigilant parent.
“Over the past few years, we have had a number of near misses with vehicle to person interactions on Nippers days in the carpark directly in front of the Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club,” said Ms Hegarty.
“A core foundation of the Eimeo SLSC is rigorous risk management to protect our members and the public.
“We have consulted our members and the general public on ways we can manage the risk of vehicle to person interactions in the carpark between the club house and the beach.
“The consensus is that an Engineering Control of a boom gate is required to effectively control this risk when there are children around.
“The Club has previously used signage in an attempt to control the risk with limited effect.”
Ms Hegarty hopes the installation of a boom gate will enable the club to restrict vehicle access in the carpark during events where children are present.
The club is in the process of organising an e-petition to support the request.
Vehicle operators are reminded to be aware while navigating the car park and to do so using courtesy and caution.
Eimeo SLSC warns car park users to be vigilant on event days. Photo supplied
If you disregard how often some of the members indulged in a cold pale ale at Red Dog Brewery, it’s a beautiful coincidence that Insane Cane Train’s first ever gig will take place at the same location the band was conceptualised.
Lead singer and guitarist Dom Pinzone is a seasoned performer at the Chain Street brewery, his sets often involving everything from Ball Park Music to Neutral Milk Hotel.
With a drum kit packed up in the corner of his apartment and a strong desire to write music with other people, Dom met Sam Gillespie and discovered he played drums and had a shed to practise in, so Mackay’s newest band was formed.
“I love playing in a band as opposed to playing solo,” Dom said.
“There is this fantastic feeling hearing each member nail their part that will ever get old.”
The pair went on to recruit their friends Lainie Tilse on the keyboard, Gilbert Gray on lead guitar, Bennett Hardwick on bass and Hannah Walsh on vocals, creating a full, tight and impactful sound that has been fine-tuned with intensive band practise, especially over recent weeks.
“We definitely had to kick preparations up a gear,” Dom laughed.
“I sprung the gig on the band only a month and a half out so I'm probably responsible for a bit of stress.”
Dom cited three motivations for what was to become Insane Cane Train: firstly, an old bandmate from Brisbane.
“I think he's a genius and I appreciate him and his insight into not only music, but all aspects of life,” Dom said.
“Second is the budding Mackay music scene – I’m constantly impressed by the events and bands around town and feel a strong pull to get involved.
“Lastly but certainly not least; the band, the mates, knowing these beautiful people who just happen to also have amazing talents and share a passion for music.”
Dom Pinzone will take the stage at Red Dog Brewery this Saturday, August 26 from 4:00pm, with Insane Cane Train to perform from 6:00pm.
“Expect songs that are infectiously conducive to good times,” he said.
“Expect unbridled bopping to the debut of our first original song.
“Expect a twist on what unimaginative people may call ‘relatively simple content.’”
WHAT: Insane Cane Train
WHEN: Saturday, August 26 from 4:00pm
WHERE: Red Dog Brewery, Chain Street
This is a free event
Local musician Dom Pinzone will front a new band performing at the brewery this weekend
When you hear the term ‘dedicated to sport’, who in your life instantly springs to mind?
You can now recommend your top pick from the local community to Mackay Regional Council’s Sporting Hall of Fame.
This institution has been developed to recognise the region’s residents who have made outstanding achievements in their sport.
No matter your age or skill level, if you have made an impactful contribution to your sport, the Mackay Regional Council would love to hear about it!
Mayor Greg Williamson said the hall of fame wasn’t just for athletes, but also leaders, officials, support staff and coaches.
“With our state set to host the 2032 Olympics, we decided that now was the perfect time to highlight the Mackay region as a sporting powerhouse,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We have so many tremendous athletes, coaches, support staff and officials who have represented Queensland and Australia in various sports, as well as Olympians, Paralympians and Commonwealth Games representatives,” he said.
“Not only will the hall of fame provide recognition to those who have achieved great things in their sporting endeavours, it will also provide inspiration to up-and-coming sports people.
“It will allow them to identify their role models and show them that regional athletes can make it to the highest echelons in sport.”
Mayor Williams hopes to see the Sporting Hall of Fame showcase the ‘many amazing athletes our region produces’ and ‘attract more funding for development of our coaches, athletes, officials and sporting infrastructure.’
Successful nominations will receive a certificate from the Office of the Mayor and their name, photo and achievements will be displayed on the Mackay Sporting Hall of Fame website and other council media and facilities where appropriate.
Nominations for the hall of fame are now open and the form is available online at:
mackay.qld.gov.au/halloffame
Nominations will be accepted at any time, with applications considered on a quarterly basis.
Applicants are encouraged to read the eligibility criteria before submitting a nomination.
Mayor Greg Williamson with young athletes from the North Mackay Athletics Club during construction of the ARC
The high thrills and exciting spills of Dittmann Bucking Bulls is back for 2023 and promising to be a PBR not to miss.
Already a massive event on the PBR calendar, Dittmann Bucking Bulls and Bull Pit is known for having a fantastic display of human strength against these massive animals, to the sound of loud cries and even louder applause.
Prepping with rodeos in the region, these seasoned pros are more than ready to give us Whitsunday locals a fantastic show.
Expect the best of the biggest bulls and the ultimate shows of strength, determination, and grit as these courageous riders compete to beat the beasts and each other on the night.
This family friendly affair is a massive event on the PBR calendar, with camping available for keen attendees.
And don’t miss the official PBR After Party featuring Bad Influence, with a variety of food trucks, market stalls, kids rides and live music, beginning from 7pm.
WHAT: Dittmann Bucking Bulls and Bull Pit
WHERE: 145 Midge Point Road, Bloomsbury
WHEN: Saturday August 26
TICKETS: https://bit.ly/3QCD9vx
Prepare to be entertained by these courageous thrill seekers, taking on the bucking bulls. Photo supplied
Head on down to Banjo’s Bar and Grill this Sunday for the second iteration of the Whitsunday Old Iron Restorers Club ‘Show and Shine’ car, bike and four-wheel drive display.
The last event, held in March this year, attracted over 45 vehicles and organisers are hoping for the same again.
WHAT: Show and Shine
WHERE: Banjo’s Bar and Grill
WHEN: Sunday, August 27
TIME: From 10am
Our ever-ambitious local state school is taking on, not only one of the best children’s books ever written but also one of the best musicals in the world, with its upcoming adaptation of Roald Dahl’s Matilda.
This classic children’s story was given an edgier, modern reincarnation when it was transformed into the multi-award-winning stage performance written by Dennis Kelly and Tim Minchin.
With sing-along songs that many will remember, a feisty cast of characters and a relatable school setting, tickets are already selling fast for what is expected to be a sell-out event.
Over 200 students from every year level are participating in the musical, either as the on-stage cast or back-stage in areas such as lighting and sound.
Rehearsals have been a big part of the lives of both students and teachers over the past few months and everyone in the school community is looking forward to seeing all their dedicated hours of practice come together in front of the audience.
Matilda Jr the Musical tells the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a sharp mind and a vivid imagination, dares to take a stand to change her story with miraculous results.
She is a girl who loves reading and is inspired by her favourite teacher Miss Honey to overcome obstacles caused by her family and school and especially by the villain headmistress Miss Trunchball.
WHAT: Matilda Jr The Musical
WHERE: Cannonvale State School
WHEN: Friday, September 8 at 6.30pm
Saturday, September 9 at 2pm and 6.30pm
TICKETS: SCAN THIS CODE
The cast of Cannonvale State School is excited to perform their interpretation of Matilda Jr The Musical. Photo supplied
Motor cross and endurance drivers get ready, the Don River Dash is upcoming and set to be one of the biggest years for the event.
Still in its infancy, the event has seen an unprecedented explosion in its popularity, with hundreds of keen competitors flocking to Bowen for the exciting competition.
“You see all sorts of different classes, different machines, with different engine capacities,” explained Wanita Sparr, Don River Dash Event Secretary.
“It’s a unique course with a reverse grid format, meaning the smaller engine capacity cars are first, with the big machines at the back, which make for a more exciting and thrilling race.”
This two-day competition sees participants take to the Don River, completing three loops of the track on Saturday, and another three on Sunday.
But don’t forget, the motorcycle race happens after the 4-wheeled machines take on the course, making for an unpredictable ride!
“It’s a mix of enduro-long range racing and motor cross,” said Wanita.
At this stage, the Dash has almost 250 bikes nominated, with only nine racers from Bowen.
This is much the same with the car nominations, with 108 nominations, 6 from Bowen.
And don’t forget the Ironman Challenge, where competitors take part in both the car and bike competitions.
With only one nomination at this stage, with more sure to sign up, the weekend is building up to be a thrill seekers delight.
“This is like Mad Max, with great jumps, natural sloops and the bikers just have to hang on!” said Wanita.
“It’s a very technical course, and the Sunday course is next level!
“The bikers are the gladiators of The Don, having to take account of the sloops, the ground, and especially the shifting density of the sand.”
For spectators, “It’s best to just come in blind and just go ‘holy shit, these people are courageous!”
“It’s an incredible event and amazing for the region.”
In 2021, Tourism Events Queensland reported that The Dash brought in an estimated 1.138 million in economic and tourism expenditure.
Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the Don River Dash provides a great boost for the economy.
“People book accommodation months in advance for this event which continues to grow each year,” she said.
“The competitors and their support crew often come a few days prior and then stay on after the event, so they support many types of businesses in town.
“It is also a great spectator event, enhancing the experience of our visitors as well as locals.”
Over 300 competitors expected to cruise into town and Bowen will be a hive of activity, fun, and excitement – make sure you head down and check it out!
WHAT: Don River Dash
WHERE: Bowen Showground
WHEN: Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September
The Don River Dash is expecting hundreds of competitors and spectators for the exciting thrills and spills of the Dash
With an increasing motorbike division, the Don River Dash is amping up for 2023. Photo supplied
Airlie Beach get ready; a superstar is coming to town.
Well, one of the best looking and most lifelike resemblances of Jimmy Barnes, Soul Chisel is taking up residence on the Airlie Beach Hotel stage for a weekend of power.
Saturday September 2 and Sunday September 3, from 2 to 5.30pm, the Airlie Beach Hotel will be the place to be.
Creator and front man of Soul Chisel is Steve Callanan, a legend in his own right.
Steve, with his uncanny resemblance to Aussie legend Jimmy Barnes, has been bringing the charm and charisma of Jimmy across the nation.
“It so funny when people see me get on stage and whip out their phones because they think the real Jimmy’s just stepped on stage, but it’s just an old bloke who sorta looks like him and sings like him.”
Even appearing on The Voice Australia, Steve wasn’t able to turn a single mentor chair, with each star believing the real Jimmy Barnes was up on stage, belting out tunes.
Steve has got Father’s Day sorted, with his powerful show perfectly aligned with the holiday, what a treat to Aussie blokes of Airlie Beach.
“It’s a fantastic happy coincidence, that we get to make sure they’re enjoying their Father’s Day,” said Steve.
Encompassing the entire energy of Jimmy Barnes, Soul Chisel does not miss a beat, ensuring the best experience for the audience.
“We have Jim’s blessing for our show, and we’re sure to cover the party side of things!
“We play tribute and leave the impersonation to the comedians!”
No hit tune will be left out of these two back-to-back sets, covering all the very best of Jimmy Barnes.
“I love the slow Jim songs, ‘Stone Cold’, ‘Working Class Man’, and ‘Flame Trees’, ‘cause it gets people up and singing back to me.”
But don’t worry because more is always in store with Steve and Soul Chisel.
Moving through Cold Chisel, Working Class Man and Freight Train Heart, to Barnsey’s Soul Deep repertoire, there is something for everyone at this show.
Be sure to get yourself the best seat in the house, with Steve and the band sure to call for audience interaction and get you to sing along to the best hits.
“We just make sure that everyone knows that we know they’re there, and that they’re having a good time.”
WHAT: Soul Chisel, the Ultimate Jimmy Barnes Tribute
WHERE: The Pub, at the Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 September
Touching on all aspects of Jimmy Barnes’ career, Soul Chisel is perfect for any fan
Stemming from his uncanny resemblance of the Aussie legend, Steve Callanan is a legend himself
Airlie Beach Hotel is making sure that Airlie Beach knows how to rock this September
Barnsey and Barnsey with uncanny resemblance. Photos supplied
A piece of Aussie music history will have a ‘Rendezvous’ at the Grand View Hotel for one night only of rock and roll!
Iconic Aussie pub-rockers, the Choirboys are prepared to give a show like no other, treating local audiences to their massive hits that took Australia by storm back in the 1980s.
With a massive discography of 13 albums, and 15 singles, no chart-topping hit will be missed.
Performing all their fan-favourites and long-loved hits, like ‘Run To Paradise’, all four decades of the Choirboys will be traversed.
Don’t miss the ‘Big Bad Noise’ at the Grand View Hotel, as all their classics will be sure to be on the set list.
Within the permeating history of Aussie pub rock, the Choirboys have cemented themselves into the rich history of classic Australian pubs, rural or city, no matter what.
We’ll be staying up till the ‘Midnight Sun’ to catch this entire set list, which is sure to impress and bring back the ‘Struggletown’ blues that we all have, with the ‘Bad Moon Rising’ over this ‘Fortunate Son’.
Experience a piece of rock history with Bowen rock enthusiasts and everyone who loves great Aussie music!
For one absolutely chockas night of legendary music, do not miss out and get your tickets tonight.
WHAT: The Choirboys
WHERE: The Grand View Hotel, Bowen
WHEN: Saturday, August 26, doors open at 6pm
TICKETS: grandviewhotelbowen.com.au at $59 each
Aussie rockers, Choirboys will be the performance of the year, at the Grand View Hotel. Photo supplied
The community colour fun run is back for 2023, with Whitsunday Counselling and Support gearing up for a bigger event than ever.
Ready with a jumping castle, bubbles, face painting, sausage sizzle, raffles, prizes, and of course the coveted colour fun run, this absolutely free event will see smiles and laughter from everyone who attends.
Taking place during Child Protection Week, organisers aim to raise awareness that all adult community members are responsible for ensuring that our children remain safe and nurtured.
WHAT: Whitsunday Counselling and Support Colour Fun Run
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Lawns
WHEN: Saturday, September 9, from 9am
PRICE: ABSOLUTELTY FREE
Covered in paint and having lots of fun! Photo supplied
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