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This Easter long weekend, head to Airlie Beach Hotel to catch some X Factor action with Andrew Wishart, star of the 2011 series.

Against the odds and as the crowd favourite, Andrew made it to the Grand Final of X-Factor Australia; to be placed runner-up in the series, missing out on winning by 1 per cent of the national vote.

Before his X Factor success Andrew worked as a sales manager for 30 years but that all changed when his children made him audition for X Factor Australia.

Despite being away from his family throughout X Factor he thoroughly enjoyed it, he added that it was pretty cool making it that far and being on national television, watched by an audience of millions.

Andrew beat more than 30,000 hopefuls to be Runner Up on the show and has since used his fame to continue the success.

Since X Factor, Andrew has started doing music full time and has been performing gigs and shows Australia wide and even playing internationally.

He has performed with the likes of Kylie Minogue, Michael Bolton, George Benson, Stevie Nicks, Delta Goodrem, Darryl Braithwaite, Adam Thompson, Glenn Shorrock, Ross Wilson, Brian Cadd, and many more

He loves performing, and although he doesn’t have a favourite song as such, he said anything with “good messages and good vocals, something people to sing along to.”

Armed with little more than his acoustic guitar and his powerfully unique voice, Andrew possesses a resonance in his performances that transcends generations.

Andrew has visited the Whitsundays before and is looking forward to coming back, he loves the blue waters and weather.

When Andrew isn’t performing, he loves to read in his spare time.

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Last Song you listened to - We Close Our Eyes by Go West

‘Cracking song’

Favourite to perform - Dakota by Stereophonics

Favourite song - Collingwood Football song

Least favourite song - Carlton Football song

What: Andrew Wishart

When: Thursday 28 March 6.30pm – 9.30p

Friday 29 March 7pm – 10pm

Saturday 30 March 6pm – 8pm

Sunday 31 March 6:30pm to 9:30pm

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Where: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

Tickets: Absolutely free but It’s Recommended To Reserve A Table!

Photos Supplied

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The line-up for the 2024 Whitsundays Writers Festival continues to generate excitement with the addition of three highly-acclaimed authors.

The Whitsundays Writers Festival proudly expands its schedule of literary luminaries with the addition of three authors: Karina Kilmore, Melissa Ashley, and Jack Roney.

President Karen Jacobsen expressed her delight and excitement.

"We have built a substantial list of authors this year as we are focused on writing excellence," Karen commented.

"This Festival will be a joy for readers, writers, and thinkers."

Karina Kilmore, Chair of the Australian Crime Writers Association, brings a wealth of experience from her background in finance journalism and extensive literary contributions. Her crime fiction debut, Where the Truth Lies, has garnered critical acclaim and nominations for various awards, showcasing her prowess as a storyteller.

Award winning Queenslander, Dr Melissa Ashley, is known for her multifaceted talents as a writer, poet, and academic. She enriches the Festival line-up with her poetic sensibilities and historical insights. Her novel The Birdman's Wife, inspired by the life of Elizabeth Gould, reflects Melissa’s dedication to meticulous research and literary craftsmanship.

Queenslander Jack Roney, drawing from his remarkable 33-year career in law enforcement, infuses his crime fiction with unparalleled authenticity and gripping realism. As a former police officer turned full-time author, Jack’s novels offer readers an immersive experience into the gritty world of crime and investigation.

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WHAT: Whitsundays Writers Festival

WHEN: Friday, September 6, to Sunday, September 8, 2024

SUBSCRIBE: whitsundayswriters.com

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Highly hilarious and extremely popular English comedian Ross Noble is coming to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre this August.

Marking his 21st solo stand up tour, Noble is launching a bunch of fresh comedy with the ‘Jibber Jabber Jamboree’.

Audiences can expect Noble to display his expertise in improv and audience participation, guaranteed to get the audiences laughing in hysterics.

Noble’s Jibber Jabber Jamboree is taking him all around Australia, from Alice Springs, to Wollongong, Mackay, and Proserpine.

Throughout his career Noble has been nominated for and won awards and he has also become the biggest selling act at Edinburgh and Melbourne comedy festivals.  

Noble’s career fame came from his television appearances, in particular interviews, and his appearances on celebrity quiz shows.

In 2007 he was voted the 10th greatest stand-up comic on Channel 4’s 100 Greatest Stand-Ups.

Also in 2007, Noble toured around Australia on his motorbike, travelling more than 26,000 kilometres and filming it on the way. The show was later aired in 2009.

Noble has also ventured from comedy and has starred in films and plays.

In 2012, he made his film debut in the comedy horror movie ‘Stitches’, where he starred as Stitches, the killer clown.

In 2015 he made his musical theatre debut in The Producers and in 2018 was nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award for his performance in Mel Brooks Young Frankenstein musical in the West End.

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Melbourne’s own Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band is checking into Airlie Beach for a mammoth weekend of non-stop Creedence, which will leave us cross tie walking.

Ramble Tamble was born in 1989, from a need to celebrate the unforgettable beats of Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Still led by the three who started the band, Ramble Tamble encompasses the values that fuelled Creedence Clearwater Revival during their hay day.

Known for their impeccable stage presence, unbelievable recreation of the original sound and spot-on attention to detail, no Creedence fan will be disappointed with the calibre of this show.

With all band members having professionally toured international stages, this is sure to be a rock show like no other.

“Creedence undoubtedly changed the landscape of rock and roll forever in both the late sixties and early seventies,” Ramble Tamble front man Brendan Meyers explained.

“And cemented themselves into a commercial zenith whose legacy remains to this very day.”

Following this unbelievable legacy, Ramble Tamble invites audiences to just close your eyes and let the near prefect recreation of the classics wash over you on this weekend of non-stop rock tunes.

“It's a Creedence tribute that no die-hard Creedence fan would be disappointed with,” Brendan explained.

Sunday will be a special show, depicting and performing Creedence Clearwater Revival’s hottest album, Cosmo’s Factory, the band’s fifth studio album, with six of the 11 tracks charting in the Top 5 of the Billboard Hot 100.

Ramble Tamble will also be sure to throw in key tracks from artists and bands that influenced these rockers, with their The Creedence Influence set list.

This commonly sold-out show will check into Airlie Beach for one powerful weekend, as part of their national tour across Australia.

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WHAT: Australian Creedence Show with Ramble Tamble
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday March 23 and Sunday March 24, from 2pm to 5.30pm
TICKETS: Absolutely Free! But Best To Reserve A Table

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Photos supplied

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The Easter Bunny is about to come hopping through our region with both children and chocolate-loving adults excited for his arrival.

To celebrate the Easter weekend, two of our favourite family-friendly locals are putting on special events which are sure to entertain the kids while giving the parents time to relax with a nice cool bevvy.

Reef Gateway Hotel has created a special event – the Easter Family Fun Weekend which is due to take place on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 March.

There will be free face-painting on Saturday from 11.30am and live music from 6pm that evening.

On Sunday kids eat free from 12pm, terms and conditions apply.

All-day dining is available throughout the weekend but please note: the venue will be closed on Easter Friday.

Bring the family to The Reef for a weekend of eating, face-painting and live music!

Meanwhile at the Jubilee Tavern there is more fun to be had over the Easter long weekend.

Face-painting will take place on Sunday from 12pm-3pm and the kids colouring competition will be drawn at 3pm.

The venue will be closed on good Friday but will re-open Saturday and Sunday for all day dining with kids eat free for Sunday lunch (terms and conditions apply).

Ellie Goulding, Senior Operations Manager Mackay and Whitsundays said she is really excited about Easter and is looking forward to seeing the community come along to enjoy the free activities at both venues.

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WHAT: Easter Long Weekend

WHERE: Jubilee Tavern
WHEN: 30-31 March

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WHAT: Easter Fun Weekend

WHERE: Reef Gateway Hotel

WHEN: 30-31 March

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Do you want to feel the electricity?

Do you want to feel the power?

Do you want a heart-stopping, head-banging performance?

Then make sure you go to see Thunderstruck, an AC/DC tribute band, at the Airlie Beach Hotel.

With a collective history spanning over 30 years, this AC/DC tribute show is bringing big beats and bigger energy for the metal heads of the Airlie Beach coast.

Often branded as one of the most authentic and accurate recreations of the iconic rockers, Thunderstruck is not a performance to miss!

We’ve got BJ Vernal as lead vocalist. With seamless beats and melodic tunes, BJ is often credited to accurately recreate the music of Brian Johnson and Bon Scott.

With melodic beats and even better tunes, close your eyes and you’ll swear you’ve heard the real deal.

Standing next to him is Shaun ‘Webby’ Webb, the Angus Young of the band, with the lead guitar, and the prowess of the seasoned performer, despite his youthful age.

Sharing at the stage with these two are Dave Ross on bass, Nick Hunt on drums and Mark ‘Cloudy’ Colautti on rhythm guitar, a crew which ensures great sound and even better heavy beats.

“It’s a long way to Melbourne if you wanna rock ‘n’ roll but it helps if it’s with Thunderstruck,” Mark Evans, formerly of AC/DC

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WHAT: Thunderstuck: AC/DC Tribute
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 March, from 2pm to 5.30pm
TICKETS: Absolutely Free! But it’s best to book a table!

Photos supplied

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Miss Lady Saint Diva is back, and she’s bringing her unforgettable charm for another round of Drag Queen Bingo.

And she doesn’t stop there, bringing along a special guest with her to ensure that the evening is full of non-stop laughter and excitement.

Tickets include entry, unmissable drag performances, raffle (with a selection of amazing prizes on offer) and, of course, the bingo.

Prepare for an evening of non-stop laughter, jaw-dropping drag performances and an amazing selection of prizes that will leave every bingo-er a winner.

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WHAT: Drag Queen Bingo
WHERE: Reef Gateway Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, April 6 from 6pm
TICKETS: $35 available through https://bit.ly/49OqcVB

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On Friday 15th March, well-known local identities will take to the stage to display their talents with the support of Choreographer Dolly Louw and back-up dancers from Fame Talent School. One participant will walk away with the coveted Mirror-Ball Trophy.

This night of entertainment is all for a great cause, raising money to support the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

Over the next four weeks we will profile two dancers each week. First up, Josh and Chloe.

Chloe Gunthorpe

Chloe Gunthorpe, a Director of Next Accounting, will be busting a move at the 2024 ‘Dancing with Heart’ Mackay Hospital Foundation.

With a client-focused approach, Chloe says she finds joy in helping businesses reach their goals whilst gaining trust, and often forming friendships with her clients along the way.

As Chloe dances her way through life, she finds confidence in expressing herself through movement. While exploring various dance styles, she embraces the opportunity to step out of her comfort zone.

“A lot of my dance moves require me to feel confident about myself – so it’s been nice to explore that,” she says.

Chloe admits that navigating lefts and rights on the dance floor can sometimes prove more challenging than crunching numbers in her profession.

“I’m good with numbers, but not directions apparently,” she laughed.

Beyond her professional endeavours, Chloe values the impactful work of the Mackay Hospital Foundation.

“The Mackay Hospital Foundation is so integral to our community and the health of our community.

“I am a huge believer in supporting the community and if I get to learn a few dance moves along the way and create some more connections and memories – than bonus!” 

Josh Smith

As a Senior Account Executive with Elders Insurance, Josh Smith leads a whirlwind of diversity and excitement in the world of insurance. He provides a perspective of his day-to-day life through a lens of enthusiasm and a vibrant touch to his professional journey.

“One day, we're soaking in the tranquil scenery of Collinsville, chatting with local farmers helping them with farm insurance and the next, we're diving into the bustling world of Moranbah, assisting contractors in the mining sector to navigate the labyrinth of insurance intricacies.

“It's a rollercoaster ride where predictability takes a backseat, and every day unveils a new adventure.”

When it comes to dance, Josh has embraced the challenge of keeping up with Miss Dolly from Fame Talent Dance School and acknowledged it as an inspiring fitness revolution.

Josh says he has channelled his inner Patrick Swayze and mastered the "Swayze Shuffle."

“It's a delicate blend of attempting to recreate Patrick Swayze's smooth moves from Dirty Dancing while realizing my coordination might need some serious movie magic.

“But hey, it's all in good fun, right?”

““I'm passionate about ensuring that the money raised goes where it's needed most, supporting our local hospitals and healthcare initiatives though the Mackay Hospital Foundation,” he says.

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Tutti is a vocal ensemble under the direction of Jan Whelan OAM. Jan is known around Mackay, not only for her work with the Mackay Choral Society and Mackay Musical Comedy Players, but also her accompanying work with soloists, school choirs and music ministries. Jan started the group in 2002 as a small ensemble and trios and quartets. Tutti members were very proud when in 2022 Jan was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Australia Day Awards for Services to Music as an Accompanist.

Current vocalists of the group include well-known members of the community, performers, teachers and key members of other performing groups.  Their knowledge and expertise in different music styles combines to create a delectable program to share with local audiences.  Hot Note is filled with luscious harmonies and features guest artists Vicki Jones on vocals and Belinda Rooney on flute.  

CQCM student Cameron Hollis will entertain audience members in the foyer before the show with his beautiful guitar playing and the Con Friends Bar will be open to serve drinks and snacks.

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Photo Credit: Supplied by Isobel Gillman, representative of vocal ensemble Tutti

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Caption 1: Group members in headshots:

Top Row: Anne Atkinson, Vanessa Dale, Caroline Galea, Lynn Gallant

2nd Row: Isobel Gillman, Cecilia Hyde, Chantal Kay, Lauren Menzies

3rd Row: Louise Mullaney, Annie Pratt, Shona Rosser, Gwyneth Rupnik

4th Row: Caitlyn Schurmann, Nicole Thomson, Jan Whelan OAM

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Caption 2: Vicki Jones (Black and White Image)

Caption 3: Belinda Rooney (Coloured Image)

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What: Tutti presents Hot Note

When: Sat 09 March 7:30pm and Sun 10 March at 2:00pm

Where: CQCM Theatre Building 21 University Drive, 151 Boundary Rd, Ooralea

Cost: Adult $30, Concession $25, Child $20, plus family and group specials

Tickets: trybooking.com/CNYAC or call 0415167533

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The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) is moving offsite, with a performance from the Australian Army’s 1 RAR Band at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens on Friday, 2 March, 2024.

The decision to host the performance from Townsville’s Band of the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (known as 1 RAR Band) at the offsite venue was made following the closure of the MECC’s Auditorium, due to storm damage over the Christmas period.

Director Community and Client Services Janine McKay said the Defence unit’s strong sense of community was something the MECC could not pass up on.

“We have been collaborating with the band to bring music workshops to schools, and a preview performance at Caneland Central,” Ms McKay said.

“We’re fortunate to have skilled staff who are able to deliver offsite events; and hosting free, live music, with the talented 1RAR Band at Meadowlands Amphitheatre is something we’re proud to offer our community,” she said.

One RAR Band supports all three Brigade units, other Defence organisations, and the wider community. The band comprises a 10-piece ensemble (drums, trumpets, trombones and saxophones) alongside vocalists, playing contemporary music that blends modern beats with Australian classics. After success following their Sunset Vibes performance at the Winton Outback Festival in 2023, the band are excited to bring their music to Mackay.

The MECC are encouraging all ages to come along and enjoy this free, family-friendly night out.

“This will be a memorable night out. Bring some chairs or a blanket and pack a picnic. We will also have a variety of food trucks available for those looking for savoury or desserts options,” Ms McKay said.

FREE EVENT

WHAT: The MECC Presents Sunset Vibes with the 1 RAR Band

WHEN: Saturday 2 March, 6.30pm

WHERE: Meadowlands Amphitheatre, Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

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Caption:  A show-stopping performance from the Australian Army’s 1 RAR Band. Photos supplied

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Launched in 2020, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre is eager to bring back the 2024 instalment of the September Weekender, the popular event that keeps the entire family entertained.

Scheduled for the September School Holidays, this weekend extravaganza features the best of the best, from adults only evenings, musical icons, and circus performance.

Now, what’s on the agenda?

Day one will see award-winning cabaret, Briefs Factory, alongside celebrated songbird, Sahara Beck, return to the stage, following their sold-out shows.

Day two includes Australia Idol judge and iconic musician Marcia Hines to perform her album, ‘Still Shining’, plus many more of her hits.

Day three is kid-centric, including the Brats Carnival, a wild circus with fantastic music, acts of amazement and eye-popping party tricks, as part of the DBCT Kids Theatre Season.

Venue and Events Operations Manager, Jemma Carey, said the weekend is a celebration of live events, programmed to provide the ultimate weekend of live entertainment.

“We have programmed on these dates to encourage visitation to our region, three events over three days during the school holidays will provide both locals and visitors the chance to experience some of Australia’s best entertainers live in Mackay,” Ms Carey said.

“The first September Weekender took place over three-years ago, and we still get requests to bring it back. We’re excited by this announcement and the MECC team is excited to bring this flamboyant event to Mackay in September” Ms Carey said.

September Weekender events are currently on with tickets available at www.themecc.com.au

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SEPTEMBER WEEKENDER

Friday 20 September | Briefs Factory Bite Club

Saturday 21 September | Marcia Hines

Sunday 22 September | DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season Brats Carnival

Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

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SAVE THE DATE:

WHEN: September 20 – 22

WHERE: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

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