On Tuesday evening Eastwoods Dining in Airlie Beach hosted a lively fundraising event, during which local author Sandy Clark launched her latest book titled ‘Anyone Can Become a Princess’, donating all proceeds to charity.

Sandy has lived in Airlie Beach for eight years, but her ties to Zambia run deep. Her latest book is a memoir about her life in Zambia. She lived there as a young woman, her husband grew up in the region, and in 2019 she helped open a hospital in one of the country’s poorest and most remote areas. Since its opening, the hospital has safely delivered more than 3,500 babies, a remarkable achievement in a place that once had no roads, electricity or running water.

The evening’s event combined a fundraising auction with the launch of her memoir, which every attendee received as a gift. The book reflects on more than 20 years of volunteering, both abroad and at home in Australia, including local work with the Whitsunday Housing Company to support older homeless women.

“The book is all about volunteering,” Sandy said.

“The story behind the book is about when I started out, the direction I went in, and why I became a volunteer, and the book's been written to encourage other people to take on volunteering.

“I think it's a very humbling thing to do, and it brings all sorts of rewards.”

Her dedication to Zambia has been recognised in a very personal way, Sandy was named a princess by the tribal chief of the village where the hospital was built, a gesture that inspired the book’s title.

Now approaching her 78th birthday, Sandy says this will be her final fundraiser but not the end of her mission.

“I'll continue on, but I won’t be running events anymore,” she said.

“I'll apply for grants, I'll knock on doors, and I'll ask people to help provide support in future.

“I have to do things in a different way, it’s been the busiest year of my life. I've just done a fundraiser in Africa, a big one in Adelaide, and now here with this book launch and my husband says it’s time to slow down.”

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Co-owner of Eastwoods Jack Mason, Author Sandy Clark, and Co-owner of Eastwoods Kirsty Mason. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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“I’m bored,” said every kid, every school holidays.

Local, family-friendly activities that don’t break the bank can feel few and far between these days! That’s why Dunes Harbour Beach is excited to bring Coastal Kids back to Mackay this July. Start the school holidays with this local FREE community event happening Wednesday 2 July from 9am to 12pm. We can’t wait to bring the community together once again – save the date in your calendar!

Following the fantastic community response from the previous Coastal Kids event, we’re bringing it back again these school holidays. Create wholesome family memories with engaging outdoor, kid-friendly activities. Snap some fun pics for the photo album with everyone’s favourite – face painting! We’ll also be firing up the beachside barbecue for a classic Aussie sausage sizzle. We’ve even got your coffee cravings covered, with our talented baristas brewing all morning – enjoy a caffeinated parent pick-me-up on us!

Bringing vibrant vibes and a dance-worthy playlist, local radio legend Jake from HitFM will be broadcasting all the fun live. Don’t miss the exciting on-air giveaways happening throughout the morning!

Held at the picturesque Dunes Harbour Beach, with ocean views and lush open lawns, there’s plenty of space for the little ones to run around – and yes, it’s pet-friendly too, so bring the whole family (four-legged members included). We’ve got it all planned – put your feet up and take the morning off at one of Mackay’s most iconic coastal locations, Dunes Harbour Beach, located on Sol Drive next to the Community Square.

We’ll see you on Wednesday 2 July from 9am to 12pm for this unmissable free event connecting with the community, proudly hosted by Dunes Harbour Beach.

For more details, visit www.dunesharbourbeach.com.au.

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Dunes Harbour Beach is bringing back Coastal Kids this July 2 with a free, fun-filled morning of family activities, live radio, sausage sizzles, face painting and more! Photos supplied

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Friday 27th June

Crochet & Conversation
9am
Join a welcoming morning of crochet, coffee, and conversation with Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. All skill levels welcome—just look for the yarn to find the table. Connection and creativity guaranteed.
Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant

Farm Fun Open Day For Under 5’s
9.30am
Enjoy a special morning of story time, farm-themed fun, and hands-on learning at Absolutely 4 Kids, Level 1, 6/25 River Street. Designed especially for children aged 2 to 5, the event includes activity stations, giveaways, and a guest reading by author Nikki Townley, sharing her book No Drama Cane Farmer. Discover the Foundations 4 Prep Program or simply enjoy a playful outing with your little ones.
Absolutely 4 Kids – 6/25 River Street (Level 1)

Free Friday Guided Walks
10am
Join a Friday Guided Walk at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and discover the unique plants and features of this beautiful space. Led by experienced Gardens Guides, the walks run every Friday (excluding public holidays) from 10am to 11am at a relaxed pace. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre opposite the café. Don’t forget your hat, water bottle and comfy shoes. A free and informative outing for nature lovers.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

CASA Monthly BBQ
10am
Join CASA for a relaxed morning of good food and great company at their monthly BBQ. Meet out the front of the CASA Office from 10am and enjoy a freshly cooked sausage while connecting with staff and community members. Bring a friend, bring a smile, and enjoy the conversation.
4/54 Gregory Street, Mackay

LIVE Music
6-9pm
Enjoy LIVE music every Friday at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Saturday 28th June

Breakfast Ride
7.15am
A group of local motorcycle enthusiasts will gather for a Breakfast Ride on Saturday, 28 June, departing from Mackay Harley-Davidson at 7:15am. Open to riders of all experience levels, the ride promises a morning of camaraderie, community spirit, and open-road adventure. Participants are encouraged to arrive early, fueled up and ready for the journey.
26 Peel Street, Mackay

Food Forrest Fest
10am
The Mackay Community Gardens will bloom to life with the fourth annual Food Forest Fest, a vibrant day of art, kids’ craft, live music, permaculture displays, tree and flower planting, and tropical food. Set along the Pioneer River, the event invites the community to explore sustainable living while enjoying hands-on activities and garden-inspired fun. All donations collected on the day will support the continued growth and development of the community garden.
7 Sarah Street, Mackay

Country Fest Queensland
4pm
June 27th and 28th
Country Fest 2025 returns 27–28 June with two huge days of country music and rodeo action. Saturday features Casey Barnes, Tori Darke, Wade Forster, Route 33, and Mack & Cade Geiger, plus the PBR Australian Touring Pro Division in the Bull Pit. A secret US headliner for both nights will be revealed in February. Friday includes James Johnston, Shannon Noll, and more. Two-day tickets only, now on sale at www.countryfest.com.au.
Dittmann Bull Pit (Bloomsbury, QLD)

Sunday 29th June

Social Choccie Milk Run & Ocean Swim
6.30am
Start Sunday with a social run or walk followed by an ocean swim and coffee at Mackay Harbour Beach. Meet at the Surf Club at 6.20am for a 6.30am run, or 7.30am for a 7.40am swim. Open to all fitness levels, it's a relaxed and friendly morning of movement, sea breezes and conversation.
Harbour Beach

QUENDO Meet
9am
Connect over coffee with Mackay facilitator Scout at QENDO’s face-to-face support group, QENDOMeets. Open to anyone affected by endometriosis, adenomyosis, PCOS or infertility, the meet-up offers a safe and understanding space to share stories, explore treatment strategies, and find support from others who understand the challenges of chronic pelvic pain and reproductive health.
Curb, 8 Windmill Crossing Glenella

Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel

Monday 30th June

Nibble and Dabble – FREE Kids Painting
9.30am
Creative kids can paint, snack and play at the free Nibble & Dabble Art Party at Caneland Central these school holidays. Running from 30 June to 4 July, this guided 90-minute session invites little artists to explore their imaginations in a relaxed studio-style space outside Myer. Three sessions are available daily at 9.30am, 11.30am and 1.30pm. Bookings are essential. Visit: canelandcentral.com.au
Caneland Central Food Court (Outside Myer)

Parent Circle
10am
Every Monday at 10am, parents and caregivers are invited to gather for a free, welcoming Parent Circle. This judgement-free space offers open conversations, shared experiences, and practical parenting tips—plus tea, coffee, and time for little ones to enjoy the play centre. Entry is $8 per child (please advise staff if attending), while non-crawlers and adults without children attend free. Staff will supervise play while parents connect in a supportive, judgement-free environment. Whether you’re seeking advice, connection, or just a friendly chat, Parent Circle is here for you.
Cheeky Little Monkeys, 118 Wood Street, Mackay

Tuesday 1st July

Young Engineers Winter Workshops In Mackay
9am
Young Engineers workshops return to Mackay these school holidays with a two-day STEM program on July 1–2. Designed for students in Years 1 to 9, the hands-on sessions explore science and engineering through LEGO, motors and sensors. Age-specific programs ensure tailored learning for all participants. Limited spots available. Bookings are essential via trybooking.com
CQUniversity Ooralea

Thursday 3rd July

Mackay Motor Show Opening Cane City Cruze
5pm
Get ready to rev up for the Mackay Motor Show with a high-octane cruise, kicking off the event in style. Hosted by the Mackay Rod and Custom Club, the cruise will depart from the Showgrounds following a 6pm drivers’ briefing at the Clubhouse. Arrivals from 5pm. Full cruise details coming soon. This unique celebration aims to fuel excitement ahead of one of Mackay’s biggest and best motor shows yet—and if it’s a hit, expect even more in 2027.
Mackay Rod and Custom Club House, (in the Mackay Showgrounds)

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With Nedd Brockmann At Whitsunday Voices Festival

Tickets are now available for one of the most anticipated events on Mackay’s cultural calendar – the DBI Literary Dinner, headlined by Australian trailblazer, homelessness advocate, and larrikin with a mission, Nedd Brockmann.

Held as part of the 2025 Whitsunday Voices Youth Literature Festival, the dinner will take place on Friday 18 July at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC), inviting the wider community to a powerful evening of storytelling, resilience, and inspiration.

Guests will enjoy a beautifully curated three-course meal under the glittering lights of the MECC, a compelling keynote by Nedd Brockmann, and live music to round out an unforgettable evening.

Nedd captured national attention when he ran 4,000 km across Australia in just 46 days, raising millions to help end homelessness.

His story has since been featured in the hit Netflix documentary RUNN, which reached the platform’s global Top 10, and his debut book Fire Up continues to inspire Australians nationwide.

Grit, heart, and a cause – Nedd Brockmann is the inspiration we all need.

“I want people to understand that they don’t need to have it all figured out to make a difference,” Nedd said.

“I didn’t have a plan – I just started running with purpose. That’s what I want to share at Whitsunday Voices: the power of showing up, digging deep, and helping others along the way.”

Festival Manager Liz Russell said this year’s Literary Dinner promises to be one of the Festival’s most powerful yet.

“Nedd’s story speaks to perseverance, generosity and using your platform for good,” she said.

“He’s real, relatable and raw – and that’s exactly what makes his message resonate so strongly.”

Now in its 21st year, Whitsunday Voices is the largest youth literature festival in regional Queensland, welcoming over 7,500 students and hosting more than 80 events across 17–18 July 2025.

Don’t miss your chance to hear Nedd Brockmann live and be part of a night that celebrates the power of purpose.

The Whitsunday Voices Festival proudly acknowledges the support of its Major Festival Partner and Key Partners: Daly Bay, Dalrymple Bay Infrastructure, BHP/BMA, Whitehaven, Mackay Regional Council, and Whitsunday Anglican School.

Tickets to the DBI Literary Dinner are limited and on sale now at: whitsundayvoices.com.au

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Tickets are now on sale for the DBI Literary Dinner featuring Nedd Brockmann, whose incredible 4,000km run across Australia to fight homelessness captured a nation and inspired a global audience. Photo supplied

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The Father is a powerful and deeply affecting play by Florian Zeller, translated into English by  Christopher Hampton. Hailed as "the most acclaimed new play of the last decade" following its premiere in September 2012, The Father explores the unsettling experience of dementia through the eyes of André, an aging man whose grasp on reality is steadily deteriorating.

This powerful and intriguing psychological drama is now coming to Kucom Theatre for a two-week season, opening on 4 September.

Director Victor Scott, whose directing credits for Kucom include When the Rain Stops Falling (2021) and Things I Know To Be True (2023), has assembled an impressive cast featuring Geoff Stewart-McLean as André, with Anzjuli Venter, Gordon Lowe, Sarah Nievandt, Michael Brennan, and Asta Ryan.

Early Bird bookings for The Father will open on Monday 23 June for one week only.

Bookings can be made via humantix.com. For all accessible seating and Companion Card purchases, please contact the Kucom bookings team on 0419756840.

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The Father, a powerful play by Florian Zeller about dementia, opens at Kucom Theatre on 4 September, directed by Victor Scott with a talented cast. Early Bird bookings start 23 June for one week. Image supplied

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At Whitsunday Multicultural Festival

On Saturday Bowen came alive with the Whitsunday Multicultural Festival. Organised by the Whitsunday Regional Council the free family-friendly event showcased traditional dance, global cuisine, music, art, storytelling and interactive activities.

The festival closed with fireworks at 8pm, lighting up the cool Whitsunday winter sky.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Whitsunday Multicultural Festival has become a signature event in the region and it is a celebration of the many cultures across the Whitsunday region.

“This region really and truly is proudly diverse. This festival today gives us a chance to honour that diversity through food, music, dance, art and storytelling, and to recognise these fantastic traditions that shape our community,” said Mayor Ry Collins.

“I encourage you all to take in the performances, try some new flavours, and connect with one another and respect the value of multiculturalism. It's what helps make the Whitsundays such a warm, dynamic and connected place that we live.”

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On Thursday over 200 people gathered at Lake Proserpine for the Queensland Music Trail's free Reef Sundowner.

Despite the poor weather in town, the evening at Lake Proserpine was chill but clear and the vibes were unmatched. Relaxing by a fire…..

The event was enjoyed by all and the performers from the I Heart Songwriting Club were exceptional and well received.

The Whitsunday Regional Council are already in talks with Queensland Music Trails to ensure that the Reef Sundowner event is secured in years to come.

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John Swan ‘Swanee’ is coming to the Airlie Beach this weekend for two afternoon shows Saturday June 21 and Sunday June 22 at the Airlie Beach Hotel.

His arrival at the Airlie Beach Hotel comes just before his new album is released. Swanee's brand new album titled ‘Believe’ will come out August 1, and it is an album that’s set to have all fans of Australian rock music in awe.

15 out of 16 tracks features an Aussie rock legend, including his two brothers Alan and Jimmy Barnes. It also features his niece Mahalia Barnes, and music royalty including:

• Kevin Borich
• Joe Camilleri
• DIESEL
• Dave Gleeson
• Colin Hay
• Jack Jonesz
• Wendy Matthews
• Russell Morris
• Ian Moss
• Melinda Schneider
• Rick Springfield

This is Swanee’s first album in 11 years, and it's almost unheard of to see an album with this many guests.

In his expansive career Swanee has joined numerous bands, climbed the national charts but in recent times he’s done work away from the spotlight.

In 2015, he was honoured as South Australia’s Senior Australian of the Year for his tireless work supporting social causes. Then in 2017, he received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM), acknowledging his contributions to both music and charitable work.

Among his many initiatives, Swanee partnered with war veteran Rob Pickersgill to launch the Warrior Music Project, a program designed to aid the mental health and wellbeing of veterans, police, and emergency service personnel through the power of music.

He is a longtime supporter of the Salvation Army, Swanee has focused on key issues such as homelessness and rehabilitation. He also co-founded the Autism Music Fund, blending his musical talent with his dedication to making a difference. In addition, he actively promotes awareness for ovarian cancer.

When Swanee arrives in Airlie Beach he is going to join forces two of Australia’s Premier Tribute shows Gold Chisel and The Power & The Passion Midnight Oil tribute. It promises to be an unforgettable weekend of rock.

Swanee will hit the stage with a set of his own crowd favourites before teaming up with Gold Chisel to deliver a few iconic Cold Chisel classics.

Gold Chisel and The Australian Midnight Oil Show are no strangers to the Airlie Beach Hotel stage, consistently putting on high-energy performances and with Swanee in the mix, this show is shaping up to be something truly special.

Make sure you order a copy of Swanee’s new album ‘Believe’ available 1st August, for more info go to www.johnswan.net.au.

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For Airlie Beach Festival Of Music

Escape the ordinary and dive into the ultimate music holiday! The Airlie Beach Festival of Music, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Great Barrier Reef, unveils its complete and sensational lineup for 2025, promising an experience that's truly more than a festival, more than a holiday.

This November 7th-9th, prepare to immerse in three days of world-class live music across 15 venues throughout the vibrant seaside town of Airlie Beach, Whitsundays. Forget massive queues; here, the music is all around, the buses are free and the vibes are relaxed.

Joining the already stellar roster of Australian legends, including Jessica Mauboy, The Screaming Jets, Choirboys, Diesel, The Black Sorrows, and Bachelor Girl, are even more outstanding original artists. Bringing the Airlie Beach Festival of Music total line up to over 60 acts.

Newly announced acts include Aussie favourite Pete Murray, back with his full band after a sold-out solo tour, delivering his trademark acoustic-rock sound.

Tex Perkins joins forces with Matt Walker to perform classics and new co-writes, fresh from The Cruel Sea’s 30th anniversary tour.

Festival favourites Matty Rogers and David Flower also return, bringing their soulful blues-rock and genre-blending indie-folk to the stage.

Also joining the lineup are 2014 Passport to Airlie winners The Natural Culture, Tanya George, bluesman Zed Charles, Canadian country artist Bear Brewer, and Jackson Dunn, bringing the total to 60+ artists across 15 stages in a full town music takeover.

Entries are now open for Passport to Airlie, emerging artists can compete for prizes and a shot at the main stage. Since 2013, over 3,000 acts have entered, with 13 past contenders returning in 2025—proof that success goes beyond the win.

Held in picturesque Airlie Beach, the festival offers a range of accommodation, free venue transport, and tickets from $325 for a three-day pass, plus Thursday’s pre-party and Monday’s post-party.

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Airlie Beach Festival of Music kicks off this November, 7th - 9th. Photo supplied

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Friday 13th June

BMA Fun Day
9am
Families are invited to a special BMA Fun Friday, hosted by the Northern Beaches Community Playgroup at Bucasia Esplanade. This community play morning promises outdoor fun, movement, music, stories and creativity, featuring special guests from Active Squirtz and Bunnings Craft. Proudly supported by BMA’s Benefiting My Community Fund, the event offers a joyful space for connection and play. All families welcome—bring your energy, your little ones, and join the fun!
Bucasia Esplanade

Yoga In The Gardens
9am
Experience gentle yoga in nature at Yoga in the Gardens, held on the 2nd and 4th Fridays of each month at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens. These free sessions run from 9–10am and are suitable for all ages and experience levels. Led by Anna, the class offers mindful movement, breathing, and relaxation in a peaceful outdoor setting. Bring a yoga mat if you have one—spares available. No bookings required.
Botanical Gardens Mackay

Free Friday Guided Walks
10am
Join a Friday Guided Walk at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and discover the unique plants and features of this beautiful space. Led by experienced Gardens Guides, the walks run every Friday (excluding public holidays) from 10am to 11am at a relaxed pace. Meet at the Visitor Information Centre opposite the café. Don’t forget your hat, water bottle and comfy shoes. A free and informative outing for nature lovers.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

LIVE Music
6-9pm
Enjoy LIVE music every Friday at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Saturday 14th June

2025 Finley Smith Memorial Cup
10am
Following the incredible success of past events—raising over $76,000 for epilepsy awareness—the beloved cricket fundraiser is back and aiming even higher. All proceeds support Epilepsy Queensland in memory of Finley Smith. Get ready for a day of sport, community spirit, and purpose. Donations can be made at: epilepsyqueensland.com.au.
Harrup Park

Cane City Cruzn
4pm
Car enthusiasts are invited to shine up their rides and hit the streets of Mackay for a community car cruise on Saturday, June 14. Starting from 4pm on Shakespeare Street near the TAFE/CQ Uni car park, the convoy will cruise to Rural View for food, drinks, and fun—before looping back into town. Support local, meet fellow revheads, and bring the car scene back to life.
Shakespeare Street near the TAFE/CQ Uni car park

Highway Country Music Family Night
From 7pm
The Bakers Creek Community Hall will come alive with music and community spirit at the upcoming Highway Country Music Family Night. Held on Saturday, June 14 from 7:00pm, the evening promises great country tunes and friendly vibes. Entry is just $5 and all are welcome. A general meeting for members and those interested in joining will take place beforehand at 5:45pm. Don’t miss this heart-warming night of music and mateship.
Bakers Creek Community Hall

Sunday 15th June

2025 Pioneer Valley Show
From 9am
Join more than 16,000 visitors for the Pioneer Valley Show, widely regarded as Australia’s best one-day event. Held at the scenic Finch Hatton showgrounds, the day will be packed with agricultural exhibits, entertainment, food, and family-friendly attractions. Gates open early, with something for all ages. Pre-purchase tickets from May 1 at select locations to save.
Pioneer Valley Agricultural Show Society, Mackay Eungella Rd

CASA Sunday BBQ
11am
Everyone’s welcome at CASA’s weekly sausage sizzle, held every Sunday at the Blue Water Quay BBQ area. Enjoy a free bite to eat, connect with others, and bring a friend along for a relaxed and friendly start to your Sunday. Just bring a smile—everything else is sorted.
Blue Water Quay

Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel

Faith in Action Coffee and Op Shop Ministry Centre Opening
3pm
The Mackay Anglican Cluster invites the community to the Blessing and Official Opening of the Faith in Action Coffee and Op Shop Ministry Centre. This new space at Holy Trinity Parish Hall offers affordable goods, warm hospitality, and a listening ear. All are welcome to attend and celebrate the beginning of this community-focused ministry.
Holy Trinity Parish Hall

2025 Annual Bakers Creek Memorial Ceremony
3pm
The Mackay Sub Branch of the RSL, on behalf of Mackay and district citizens, invites the community to the Annual Commemorative Ceremony marking the 82nd anniversary of the 1943 Bakers Creek air crash and the 33rd anniversary of the Bakers Creek Memorial dedication. Held at the Bakers Creek Memorial, this solemn event on Sunday, 8 June 2025, honours the lives lost in one of Australia's worst military air disasters. All are encouraged to attend.
Bakers Creek Memorial

Monday 16th June

Mackay NAIDOC Community Committee Meeting
12.30pm
The Mackay NAIDOC Management Committee invites all community members to attend the upcoming NAIDOC Community Committee Meeting at the Jubilee Community Centre. This is an opportunity to connect, contribute ideas, and support the planning of this year’s NAIDOC celebrations. Everyone is welcome.
Jubilee Community Centre

Tuesday 17th June

Mackay Show 2025
9am-4pm – Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
The Mackay Show Society is proud to present the 146th Annual Mackay Show—three days of tradition, entertainment, and community pride from Tuesday 17 to Thursday 19 June. From livestock to local produce, rides to showbags, and everything in between, this iconic event promises something for all ages. Don’t miss the region’s biggest and most beloved show day celebration!
Mackay Showgrounds

Thursday 19th June

Councils Mackay Show Display
Times Vary - Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
Council is bringing the fun to the 500 Pavilion at the Mackay Show from June 17–19! Enjoy free tastings from the Sarina Sugar Shed, a photo booth, face painting, water refills, and giveaways—including the chance to win $500 in prizes. Don’t miss Ranger Ros, local artisan stalls, and a showcase of council services. Come and explore! Tuesday, June 17 – 2pm to 8pm. Wednesday, June 18 – 10:30am to 8pm. Thursday, June 19 – 9am to 4pm.
500 Pavillion

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June

13 Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:30pm

14 Botanical Bites, Club Whitsunday, 3pm - 5pm, $120

14 Multicultural Festival, Bowen Foreshore Sound Shell, 4pm - 8pm

14 Echoes of Pink Floyd - 60 years of Pink Floyd, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 8:00pm

15 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

17 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

20 Whitsundays 112th Annual Regional Show Day 1, Proserpine Showgrounds

21 Whitsundays 112th Annual Regional Show Day 2, Proserpine Showgrounds

22 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

24 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8:00am-2:00pm & Sailors/Carers 9:00am-1:00pm, Bookings Required

24 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

25 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp

27 Legends Night by Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network, Reef Gateway Hotel, 6pm - 9pm

29 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

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Friday 13th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jackson Dunn (from 8pm)

Saturday 14th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Grease vs Rocky Horror (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: (Live Music & DJ Session 1pm – 6pm)

Sunday 15th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Grease vs Rocky Horror (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30 – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jackson Dunn (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)
Colonial Palms Motor Inn: Jazz on the Deck (2pm - 5pm)

Thursday 19th June
Airlie Beach Hotel: Sam McCann (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

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Next film night June: Ghostlight

Alex Thompson and Kelly O'Sullivan’s moving, gently comic collaboration is about the power of live theater to make sense of our offstage dramas and personal narratives. Ghostlight centers on Dan (Keith Kupferer), a melancholic middle-aged construction worker grieving a family tragedy. Cut off from his devoted wife, Sharon (Tara Mallen), and talented but troubled daughter, Daisy (Katherine Mallen Kupferer), Dan finds comfort and community in a misfit company of amateur actors.

While moonlighting in a low-rent production of Shakespeare’s most protean tragedy, Dan is forced to confront his buried emotions. Real-life family Mallen, Kupferer, and Mallen Kupferer bring tenderness and authenticity to this poignant portrait, while Dolly de Leon – last seen stealing the scene in Triangle of Sadness – is hilarious as Dan’s irascible, improbable co-star.

After premiering at Sundance this year, Ghostlight has impressed audiences and critics alike with its touching and gently comic tale of the healing power of art. With 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and a high placing on Letterboxd's Top 10 films of the year, this is one you don't want to miss!

Reviews:

"One of the year’s best, most satisfying stories" - DIRECTOR'S CLUB

"An emotional, gorgeously told story" - SCREEN RANT

"A stunning fable about the healing power of art" - THE SPOKESMAN

The Listener:  “A heartwarming movie about the benefits of more drama in your life”

What: Next Film Night: Ghostlight
When: 7:30pm, Friday 6 June
Where: Cook Theatre, CQU Building 1 (at the end of the road)
Additional Information: USA / 2024 / M / 1hr 56 mins
Tickets: available via trybooking.com

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After a strong wind warning snuffed out SPARK a fortnight ago, the exciting pop-up event is set to reignite from Thursday, June 12, to Sunday, June 15.

After the event was postponed, organisers sprang into action to reorganise the dozens of activities and attractions scheduled to activate the old cinema car park on Wood and Gordon streets.

SPARK will now ignite with an evening networking event from 5pm to 7pm on Thursday, June 12, and will then be followed by three days of continuous activations and activities.

SPARK will run from 9am to 9pm on Friday (June 13) and Saturday (June 14), and on Sunday (June 15) the fun will kick on from 9am to 2pm.

The site will be buzzing with live music, art, food, kids' activities, workshops and pop-up performances – all free to attend, with a small selection of optional paid experiences.

For more information on this exciting pop-up event, make sure you follow the Mackay City Centre and Waterfront Facebook page or visit their webpage (www.mackaywaterfront.com.au).

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There’s so much happening in Mackay in July, but for the art-lover there is nothing better than Artspace Mackay’s Libris Awards.

Artspace Mackay, in partnership with Daly Bay, is delighted to announce the finalists for the 2025 Libris Awards: Australian Artists Book Prize.

The shortlisted entrants’ artworks will be exhibited at Artspace from July 5 to September 14.

The prestigious Libris Awards bring together works by leading and emerging artist book makers from across the country.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the awards were a chance to celebrate the artform and build on the gallery’s significant artist book collection through the competition’s acquisitive prizes.

“We have had a fantastic and diverse range of artists’ books submitted, which is proof that artists’ book genre is thriving,” Mayor Williams said.

“Entries have explored myriad themes, including the ongoing impacts of climate change, identity and belonging, the search for connection and intimacy and social and political issues,” he said.

“I extend a huge thanks to guest judges, Ana Estrada and Marian Macken, who have had a very difficult task of shortlisting 53 entries for display and award consideration from the 142 submitted entries.”

Artspace Director Tracey Heathwood said the 2025 awards had been reimagined, with the Tertiary Artists’ Book Prize category now an invitational award.

“Seven tertiary student finalists were commissioned to create new artists’ books for the exhibition and to vie for the overall $3000 acquisitive Tertiary Artists’ Book Prize,” Ms Heathwood said.

“With support from major sponsor Daly Bay, prize money has increased across all categories and, thanks to our wonderful partnership with the Queensland College of Art and Design’s Cobalt Editions, we will also host the 2025 abbe Conference and Artists Book Fair,” she said.

“The Artists Book Fair is an opportunity for artists, designers and makers to showcase their artists’ book and printmaking practice to gallery professionals, academics, artist peers and collectors.”

A full list of the finalists is available here https://bit.ly/4k3XxB0.

For more information on the Libris Awards and Artists Book Fair, head to artspacemackay.com.au/whats_on.

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