Weber Bros Entertainment is set to dazzle and amaze the residents of Cannonvale with the grandest circus show called – ‘THE CIRCUS’.  

Prepare to be captivated by a mesmerizing display of talent from performers hailing from all corners of the globe.  

This is an international event that promises to leave no one disappointed.

The Circus promises to be an adrenaline pumping 2-hour spectacle, featuring a lineup of extraordinary and world-class acts that includes comedians, FMX riders, BMX mega ramp, beautiful aerialists, and the show-stopping Human Cannon Ball.  

Our performers and crew are brought together from a diverse array of countries.  

Some of these acts have not been seen in Australia under The Big Top, making it an exciting opportunity for patrons to experience something truly unique and unforgettable, there is something for everyone under The Big Top.

Beyond the jaw-dropping stunts and heart-stopping performances, The Circus fosters a sense of community.  

It is a space where strangers become friends, sharing in the collective awe and wonder that unfolds before their eyes.

Laughter, gasps of amazement, and applause fill the air, creating a bond that transcends age, culture, and background.

In an age where entertainment options seem endless, The Circus stands tall as one of the few remaining art forms that can truly bring the whole family together.  

From the youngest to the oldest, everyone can find something to marvel at within the vibrant world of the circus.

So, mark your calendars and gather your loved ones for an evening of pure enchantment.  

The Circus promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe and with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Step inside the magical world of the circus, where dreams come alive, and the extraordinary becomes reality.

WHAT: Weber Bros Circus

WHERE: Opposite The Whitsunday Plaza, Cannonvale

WHEN:  August 24 – September 3 2023

Weekday shows at 7.30pm

Saturday August 26  and September 2 at 1pm and 7.30pm

Sunday August 27 at 1pm and 4pm

Sunday September 3 at 11am

TICKETS: 0452 00 22 00

ONLINE: www.iticket.com.au

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By Rose-Marie Dusting

These three words explain a lot about our extinct and endangered species.

I can’t stand by and see this continuing to happen, so I came up with the ‘Love an endangered Aussie species’ revolution.

I want all Australians to get on board and say, ‘I stand up for our endangered wildlife’.

Australia is home to some of the world’s most unique and rare species.

However, since European settlements in 1788, the country has experienced widespread habitat destruction and the introduction of non-native predators such as cats and foxes, causing more than 100 endemic species to go extinct over the past 200 years.

According to a recent study, Australia’s wildlife has also experienced unprecedented losses with 202 new animal and plant species making the list of threatened species between 2016 and 2022.

Many more animals are currently threatened or at risk of extinction as urban development, bushfires and flood events persist.

Here are just a few: bilby, koala, platypus, long-footed potoroo, greater glider, numbat, orange-bellied parrot, regent honeyeater.

Our children and their children deserve a thriving planet.

It’s not too late to make changes for a better environment for them.

I am just one person.

I need all Aussies to say, ‘I stand up for our unique wildlife.

‘I am for environment, education and action.’

The thing our children are worried about most is the environment.

So, what are we going to do to put their minds at ease?

Love and protect our precious, unique wildlife.

My much-loved character Paddles the Playful Platypus is now an endangered species. 4.5 species have become extinct every century.

It’s time for action now!

My quote of the week: I can’t be everything to everyone; I am not chocolate.

About Rose-Marie: Rose-Marie is an author, journalist, mum and nanny. She is married to Anthony and has two children, Chloe and Samuel, and grandsons Levi, Gatlin and Henry, with a new grandchild due next March.

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Friday 18 August

Conversations with Art

Friday, 1:00pm

Conversations with Art is a free and enjoyable discussion led by Artspace staff as they look at images of traditional and contemporary artworks from Gallery and Museum Collections from around the world. It’s not an art theory lesson, it’s simply a casual conversation to talk about the art, deconstructing the works, considering themes, possible techniques used by the artist, and creating links with our own personal experiences. Whether you’re an artist, an art and language lover, beginner, or expert, it’s free, interesting, thought provoking and extremely enjoyable.

Artspace Mackay

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Saturday 19 August

QCCS NQ's Rock'n Country 2023

Saturday and Sunday, 8:00am to 11:00pm

Yeehaa Events are bringing the best country rock artists to Mackay for QCCS NQ's Rock'n Country music festival. On site camping is available for two-day pass holders giving you easy access to come and go as you please. There will be plenty to keep the whole family busy with kid shows and entertainment including mechanical bull, jumping castles, face painting and plenty of food and market stalls. There will be some awesome prizes up for grabs for those winners of our best dressed competition and the line dancing competition. For those feeling strong don't forget to register at the event for the City Fitness Tug-of-war! This event is proudly raising funds for Variety - the Children's Charity with a live auction held at the event. Bring along a camp chair and set yourself up for an incredible two days!

Mackay Showgrounds

ARTIST’S TALK - Award-winning artist Zanny Begg discusses her latest exhibition Saturday, 9:30am

‘These Stories Will be Different’ brings together Zanny Begg’s most significant video installations —a fascinating series of works that tell stories, but also challenge the conventions of storytelling. After Zanny’s artist’s talk, do her workshop from 12:30pm to create a wallpaper inspired by late medieval drawings used to illustrate Christine de Pizan’s manuscript The Book of The City of Ladies (1402). Working across time contemporary artist Zanny Begg will bring a feminist lens to drawings of witches, outcasts, healers, monsters and demons—exploring the European witch trials Zanny will invite you to reimagine a world beyond misogyny.

Artspace Mackay

Zing Cosplay Comp 2023

Saturday, 10:00am

As part of their fundraising for Starlight Children’s Foundation, Zing Caneland Central are hosting a Cosplay Competition. There will be a registration fee which is 100% donated to the Starlight foundation and there are prizes to be won across 12 and under, Group and Advanced categories. The Cosplay Competition location will be out the front of Target in the centre.

Caneland Central

Family Trivia Fundraiser

Saturday, 10:00am

Join the United Apostolic Volunteers Foundation for an afternoon of food, friendship and fundraising. All proceeds go to Orange Sky Australia, Ukrainian Humanitarian Aid and Kenyan Children in Need. $25 per person including afternoon tea. Tables of eight. Drinks are available to purchase, however this is an alcohol-free event.

Beaconsfield State School Hall, 1 Nadina Street, Beaconsfield

Sunday 20 August

Sunday Live Music – BarbsWired

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

Tuesday 22 August

BMA Kidspace

Tuesday, 10:00am

BMA Kidspace, Artspace Mackay’s free and ever popular toddler’s program, gives children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of co-operative learning. The program includes free artist-run craft activities in two sessions, Session 1: Anytime from 10 to 11:30am; Session 2: Anytime from 12:15 to 2pm with live musical entertainment 11:30am to 12:15pm. Bring your children along for a fun day of art-making, singing and dancing.

Artspace Mackay

DBCT Kids' Theatre Season - The Twits

Tuesday, 12:30pm to 1:30pm and 6:00pm to 7:00pm

Roald Dahl’s gruesome twosome The Twits are ready to delight and disgust, in equal measure. You’ve read the book – it’s time to experience this family classic from the wacky mind of the world’s No. 1 Storyteller live on stage. Adapted for the stage by shake & stir theatre co.

MECC

Wednesday 23 August

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 24 August

Picnic in the Gardens

Thursday, 9:30am

Celebrating Children's Book Week, dress up as your favourite book character and join us for a picnic in the Botanic Gardens, Story Time under the trees and Baby Bounce on the lawn. Join the Mackay Regional Council Libraries team for face painting, puppets, craft activities and heaps more for children from birth to five years. Bring a picnic rug, water bottle and hat.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

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

DZ Deathrays R.I.F.F. Album Tour

Thursday, 7:00pm

DZ have released their sixth studio album R.I.F.F, arguably their most experimental, enhanced and immediately resonant record yet. Heading out on the road with Press Club and Dust, these shows are sure to spark joy as well as anarchy. They inspire listeners to ignite a passion in themselves to continue to challenge and strive, making sure to always Remember It’s For Fun.

Seabreeze Hotel

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This week, students at Eimeo Road State School celebrated science week, kicking off with lots of interesting experiments on junior parade on Monday.

The school’s resident “Mad Scientist” Mrs Bowerman conducted exciting, explosive and chemically charged experiments in front of an awe-struck crowd of students.

The week continued with lots of engaging science fun, including the Student Council Mad Scientist Disco on Wednesday, inviting students to dress as their favourite mad scientist.

As part of the school’s transition to high school program, Thursday then saw year six students walk to Mackay Northern Beaches State High School to participate in Science Week activities and experience the opportunities coming their way at high school next year.

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Eimeo Road State School Mrs Bowerman donned her Mad Scientist costume for Science Week. Photos supplied: Eimeo Road State School

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Both the creative and the culinary juices have been flowing for children in Dundula State School’s ‘Step Up 2 Prep’ program.

Last Wednesday, students used colouring pencils, glue and sparkles to create their very own rainbow fish before enjoying mini pizzas on Friday.

The program invites children aged zero to five years from across the region to enjoy a social morning of art, puzzles, stories and play, preparing them for the transition into primary schooling.

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Children created art and pizza as part of Dundula State School’s ‘Step Up 2 Prep’ program. Photos supplied: Dundula State School

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Winners Announced At Exhibition Opening

The winner of the 2023 Woollam Art on Show Award is one of many local artists to have claimed prizes following the exhibition and awards ceremony at the start of the month.

Stephen Homewood grew up in Mackay, inspired by the colours, animals and birds around him, his work ‘Step into another land’ earning him the Woollam Art on Show Award for 2023.

Read on for a full list of winners.

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Woollam Managing Director Craig Percival and overall winner of the Art on Show Award 2023 Stephen Homewood and his work titled ‘Step Into Another Land’

Melissa Broadhurst Coordinator and the Yayoi Kasuma models Baden and Phoebe

Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood and winning Artist Charlene Attard

Edie, Myra and Lisa Robeig Holmes and Jen Finn

Sarah Challen, Matteo Calisti, and Bonnie McCarthy

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert MP and Frank Gilbert

Artists Chris Langlois, Bradley Short, Tim Allen, and Rhett Brewer

Rebecca Arlott, Lauryn De Pinto, and Kristie Anderson

Vassie Comino and Geoff Daniels

Elliot Tate and Emergent Artist Hailey Said. Photo credit: Leah McLean

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On Contemporary Australian Play

Kucom Theatre’s latest production, ‘Things I Know To Be True’, is a modern Australian drama written by Andrew Bovell, a well-known Australian playwright known for co-writing the screenplay for Strictly Ballroom with Baz Luhrmann.

The story centres around what seems like a typical suburban family: Fran, Bob and their four adult children. In spite of the love they all have for each other, little by little as the seasons turn, the veneer peels away. Perfect becomes imperfect as the dramas of the children wreak havoc on the family.

Read on to find out more about the cast and crew behind Kucom Theatre’s production of ‘Things I Know To Be True’.

Victor Scott – Director

“I have a passion for Australian dramatic works, and Andrew Bovell is the best there is in my opinion. Bovell’s writing feels so natural and real.”

Sarah Neivandt – Fran Price

“I auditioned because I love Bovell’s work … His plots are complex, but his characters are so relatable. This play is particularly appealing as it is set in contemporary Australia and shows the strength of family love despite the personal issues of individual family members.”

Simon Robinson – Bob Price

“Having previously been fortunate enough to be cast in an amazing play by this author, with an awesome cast and twists and turns everywhere, I knew I had to audition for a part and I haven’t been disappointed. I see real life dramas and people, and I can identify with a number of the characters, their reactions and interactions.”

Michael Brennan – Mark / Mia Price

“I auditioned for the role of Mark/Mia because I want to explore a variety of genres. I like the role because it has some intersectionality with my own life experiences, and I am curious to see in which ways I am able to channel an authenticity into the character.”

Nicole Pasquale – Pip Price

“I enjoy plays written by Australian playwrights because I find they connect with our culture. In my role as Pip I get to play a selfish nasty version of myself. I think it will be fun.”

Gordon Lowe – Ben Price

“This play is very different from any other show I have done. It’s very serious, and real, and impactful … My role is great because Ben is very relatable to many people in where he fits in the family dynamic, as well as exploring what happens when a series of bad decisions snowballs into a crisis.”

Shae Robinson – Rosie Price

“The display of family, love, hurt and pain throughout the play allows a pure relation between audience and characters. I can really see parts of myself in the role. I love the depth and inner thinking that my character has and I can’t wait to explore them.”

WHAT: Kucom Theatre’s production of ‘Things I Know To Be True’

WHEN: October 19-21 and 26-28

WHERE: Kucom Theatre

TICKETS: Humanitix

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Back row L-R Michael Brennan, Simon Robinson, Gordon Lowe, Victor Scott, front row L-R Sarah Neivandt, Shae Robinson and Nicole Pasquale. Photo supplied

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Mackay extended a warm welcome to a group of 15 students and two chaperones hailing from its sister city, Matsuura in Japan. The students embarked on an engaging cultural exchange program, immersing themselves in the vibrant spirit of the sugar city for a week-long visit.

During their stay, these young visitors had the opportunity to delve into the heart of the region, soaking in its diverse offerings and forging connections with local families who kindly hosted them.

A highlight of their journey was the official welcome extended by the Mackay Regional Council, which took place last week. The students were warmly greeted by the council's staff, as well as Mayor Greg Williamson and CEO Scott Owen.

Throughout their stay, the students explored various facets of the region, including iconic landmarks like 'Buffy' the giant cane toad in Sarina, the Sarina Sugar Shed, and the Sarina Youth Centre. The journey also encompassed visits to the Mackay Art Society Inc and Holy Spirit College Mackay, providing the students with a glimpse into the local art and educational landscape.

As the students bid farewell to their Mackay hosts, expressions of gratitude, or "Arigatou," reverberated through the air. The cultural exchange program served as a bridge between two communities, fostering understanding, appreciation, and lifelong memories.

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Photo credit: Mackay Regional Council

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Meanwhile In Matsuura…

This Australia-themed park is located in Matsuura City, Nagasaki Prefecture, to celebrate the sister city relationship with Mackay. Local children can learn all about Australia as they play on the kangaroo bouncer and platypus slippery-dip.

Photo source: Consulate-General of Japan, Brisbane

Join The Conversation For The Future Of Arts In Our Region

For those whose inclinations gravitate toward the cultural tapestry, the harmonies of music, the strokes of artistic ingenuity, the narratives of the theatrical realm, or the boundless expanse of creativity in all its forms, a remarkable avenue presents itself to exert influence over the shaping of our locale.

In other words, speak now or forever hold your brushstroke!

Mackay Regional Council is currently undertaking community consultation to create a new Mackay Region Arts and Culture Plan.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council was passionate about enhancing our region’s liveability.

“Arts and culture are intrinsically linked to the liveability of our region,” Mr Williamson said.

“The arts entertain us; they make our lives more vibrant, interesting and exciting; they challenge us, make us think and often evoke an emotional response.

“A region without culture or the arts would be a very dull place.

“Luckily, our region already has a vibrant arts and culture scene – we have amazing festivals, a diverse art collection, a state-of-the-art theatre showing a range of local and travelling productions and we have an arts development program that is always working to foster up-and-coming creatives.

“What this Arts and Culture Plan will do is allow us to fine tune our efforts.

“We want to identify any gaps in the region, be they geographical or types of art and culture that residents feel we don’t support sufficiently. We would also like to hear where we are doing well – so we can keep doing it.

“If you feel that your part of the region misses out, now is the time to let us know; if you feel there are better ways we could be fostering grass-roots creative projects, we want to hear them, and if you want to see more of a particular type of art, now’s the time to make your voice heard.”

Having your input on the direction of arts and culture in our region is easy – simply head to connectingmackay.com.au. Once there, you can complete a short online survey or register to join a face-to-face focus group session. The survey closes on Sunday, September 17 at 11.59pm.

Face-to-face sessions will be held on:

● September 4, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Jubilee Community Centre, Alfred Street

● September 5, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Badila Art and Craft Gallery, Elsie Nash St, Pinnacle

● September 6, from 9.30am to 11.30am at Jubilee Community Centre, Alfred Street

● September 7, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at Council Client Service Centre, Broad Street, Sarina

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If you want to see more of a particular type of art, like paste-ups and street

art (pictured with artist Muddy Grimes and assistant), now is the time to make your voice heard

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The "Clean up Mackay Region" initiative got off to a strong start last weekend, with three days of successful efforts. The community came together with enthusiasm to ensure our region remains pristine. Now, three more opportunities are on the horizon, taking place this upcoming weekend and throughout the following week.

Mayor Greg Williamson praised the community's commitment, highlighting how these events help us take pride in our area and work together for its beauty. The initiative reflects our collective determination to maintain the region's appeal.

This year's initiative comes with an added appreciation from the council. For each person who participates, the council plans to plant five native trees—street trees or for revegetation.

As we collectively focus on preserving the natural beauty of our region, "Clean up Mackay Region" highlights the power of working together for a cleaner and greener community.

Clean Up events remaining:

Saturday, August 19

● Freshwater Point – 9am to 11am

Sunday, August 20

● Grasstree Beach – 9am to 11am

● North Wall Beach – 9am to 11am

Wednesday, August 23

● Harbour Beach – 9am to 11am

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Deputy Mayor Karen May was joined by staff from Mackay Airport and other volunteers to ‘clean up Mackay’ during the inaugural event

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The Collinsville community are roaring and ready to go for their ninth annual Bacon Busters event which is due to take place this weekend and is anticipated to be the biggest and best yet.

For almost a decade, Collinsville’s vibrant country culture has been displayed at it’s best through this event which brings the community together to raise funds for the local state school.

Attendees can sit back and watch a variety of events or, for those spirited and experienced in the art of pig-hunting, can participate in the Bacon Buster biggest boar competition.

Registered as pests, the wild boar in the area is free game to hunting enthusiasts and the skill of killing the beasts has become a popular sport in the area.

While some may view this as a bit barbaric, this is a staunch and accepted part of local culture.

The event, however, is more than a hunting competition, at its heart it is a fun family day out that brings everyone together.

There will be a variety of additional activities including dog-jumping, ute pulling and iron-man competitions.

Kids will also enjoy many free events and there will be plenty of entertainment, food, and merriment.

The much-anticipated Bacon Busters weigh-in, however, is a highlight of the event.

Over the past six years the local P&C organised event has raised over $100,000 for the school and proceeds are put towards funding school excursions or extra equipment.

Each year, the P&C choose a local charity to also benefit from the event and this year RACQ CQ Rescue has been selected.

WHAT: Collinsville Bacon Busters

WHERE: Collinsville Football Grounds

WHEN: Saturday, August 19

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Councillor Michelle Wright with the youngest competitor and his dad at last year’s event. Photo: Facebook

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With a newly renovated pool open for guests to enjoy, Kipara Tropical Rainforest Retreat has completed the next stage in its revitalisation, welcoming guests to indulge in the tranquil pool grounds, with new tiles, decking, and pool furniture.

Kipara also boasts a suite of new villas, which were specially designed for the Retreat and are located near the fully equipped outdoor camp kitchen and dining area which was constructed in December last year.

With three tiers of premium secluded accommodation, Kipara is only minutes away from the Airlie Beach CBD, set in the beautiful tropical rainforest setting of Jubilee Pocket.

“It’s got a serene rainforest feel and friendly wildlife like our goannas and our curlews,” explains Retreat Manager, Sarah Bowden.

Nestled in nature, but complemented with creature comforts, there is something for every guest at Kipara.

Each private room comes with its own ensuite and has plenty of features including a bar fridge, a TV and extensive storage.

Families can enjoy a two-bedroom villa with living room and fully furnished kitchen, with beautiful bespoke furniture and décor.

For smaller groups there is also the option of the one-bedroom retreat with similar features in a slightly smaller space.

No matter if you’re on a couple’s getaway, a family holiday, or a group adventure, Kipara can accommodate all your holiday dreams.

Looking after every aspect of a weekend getaway, the team has extensive local knowledge and can book dinner or lunch reservations, local tours or even just taxis to get around town.  

“We love it here and we want all our guests to love their time here, at Kipara, and in Airlie Beach,” said Sarah.

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Great Wine And The Amazing Billy Field

The Belvedere Food and Wine Bar at the Toscana Village Resort is inviting the Whitsundays to a special one night only dinner and performance featuring the iconic Billy Field.

An intimate group of 40 attendees will enjoy the sweet tunes of this iconic Australian singer-songwriter.

This is a special performance while he is in the area for the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, a unique opportunity to see the music legend in an intimate setting, away from the crowds.

Bringing you the best of his eclectic music with inspirations from rock, RnB, and jazz, and showcasing his musical talent on the resident grand piano, all of which blend to make an evening of musical delight, coupled with a taste sensation of great food.

The Belvedere’s culinary mastery has garnered a reputation for excellence and showcases a menu that marries the flavours of Italy and France.

This highly regarded restaurant is relaxed yet refined with a tranquil elegance, perfect for a romantic evening and musical delight.

From exquisite share-style dishes to carefully curated wine pairings, each element is meticulously crafted to delight even the most discerning palate.

The creative bartenders are equally adept, conjuring up cocktails that astonish and please.

And while enjoying the beautiful vocals of Billy Field and the impeccable service of Belvedere, stay the night in the tranquil ambiance of Toscana Village Resort.

Allow the serenity to wash over you, and prepare to embark on an extraordinary journey, where terracotta architecture, warm hospitality, and the coastal charm of Airlie Beach unite to create a truly unforgettable experience.

The resort's self-catering apartments provide spacious accommodations, ideal for both relaxation and convenience.

However, it's the panoramic vistas that truly captivate the senses.

Each apartment offers a front-row seat to the awe-inspiring beauty of the region from the large balconies.

For those seeking tranquillity amidst nature, the resort's meticulously landscaped gardens offer a serene sanctuary. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and scents of the lush flora or find a quiet nook to enjoy a good book and let time slip away.

Enjoy a beautiful evening getaway, with the sensual sounds of Billy Field, as the sun slips away, and the menu is delivered with perfect elegance and intrigue.

WHAT: Billy Field Live At The Belvedere, Toscana

WHERE: Toscana Village Resort, 10 Golden Orchid Drive

WHEN: Thursday, November 9

TICKETS: $140 per person

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Iconic Australian singer-songwriter Billy Field for one night only at The Belvedere Restaurant and Bar

Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of The Belvedere under the cascading starlight overlooking the Coral Sea with Billy Field

Beautiful accommodation with serene tranquillity, stay the night at the Toscana Village Resort to complete this romantic evening. Photo supplied

For many years, the fate of the “Llewelyn”, which disappeared off Queensland waters in 1919, remained unsolved, until ……… on August 28, 1998, ‘The Daily Mercury’ reported that a Mackay diver, Mark Earney had solved the 79-year-old maritime mystery when he discovered the wreck near Bees Island.

It was almost intact and was resting in a vertical position.  

The “Llewelyn” was an iron steamship of some 350 tons, 112ft long, 19ft 6inches wide, and 9ft 2ins deep. Built in Chester, England in 1884, it was engaged in pilot service in the port of Brisbane.

During this time, it narrowly escaped foundering in heavy seas at Cape Moreton and was declared by a well-known mariner to be unsuitable for use in heavy seas.

Consequently, the State Treasurer, Mr Barnes, took steps to safeguard the lives of seamen on this steamer by issuing instructions forbidding it to be put to sea in rough weather.

On July 16, 1919, the “Llewelyn” departed from Rockhampton enroute to Bowen, making a port of call at Cape Capricorn on July 17 and leaving there that same day.

Based on the report by Captain Wilson of the “Florant” of “a terrific sea … and wind of gale force” in the area which did not abate for “a couple of days”, it is believed that the ship struck a bad storm with strong south-easterly gales.

It appears the warnings of the ship’s unsuitability in rough seas was well-founded.

Early searches by Captain Wilson and others between Mackay and Bowen located very little wreckage despite their search lasting a week during which time they walked around the coastline of every island, each wearing through two boots in the process.

A hatch cover of the old type used on vessels such as the “Llewelyn” was found and Captain Wilson, who had served on the “Llewelyn” some years previously, was of the opinion that the wreckage was part of the ill-fated steamer.

Mr Busuttin from St Bees Island, an 18-year-old at the time, reported seeing lots of wreckage passing north around July 25, 1919, and recalled, many years later, that he had picked wreckage off the beach at St Bees as well as a bell bearing the name “Llewelyn”.  

Considering the weight of the bell and its inability to be able to float, he believed that the wreck would have had to be very close to shore.

Mr Busuttin also stated that the bell “was cursed with the number 13” - a number dreaded by sailors of earlier times who believed it would be certain cause of death and disaster.

Some reports say that there were thirteen aboard including two passengers - a commercial traveller, Will Bradford and Rowena Gordon who was a probationer nurse at Rockhampton Base Hospital travelling to visit friends in Proserpine then on to Bowen.

Rowena Gordon was born Rowena Sheen Ryan in 1900 but was brought up by her aunt Emily Gordon.

Her mother, Rebecca Sheen, had been in a relationship with William Harold Ryan who was a police constable in Proserpine and who went on the be the 6th Police Commissioner for Queensland.

Rebecca registered Rowena’s surname as “Sheen Ryan” making no doubt as to who the father was.

Sadly, Emily Gordon, nee Sheen, went on to commit suicide in 1944.

Rowena was well thought of as a very compassionate nurse with a bright future.

A nightie was found washed up on St Bees with the name “Gordon” stitched on it and also some dark hair in a life ring.

It was reported that she had been tied to the life ring, no doubt in the hope that her life would be saved.

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Coming off the back of wrapping up his newest project, Australian comedic icon Wil Anderson will be performing live at the Airlie Beach Hotel for one night only!

This show is set to be a roundhouse of laughter and gags, with Wil on the lookout for the best audience interactions that he’s ever faced.

In a unique first for Wil, the Airlie Beach show is set to include the best of his hilarious comedy.

“This show will actually be a bit of a combination of both scripted and improvisation, and there’ll probably be a little bit more talking to the audience,” Wil said.

“It’s quite exciting!

“We’ll just have some fun, everyone just wants to laugh, and talk about some interesting things,” said Wil.

“I try to be very conscious about not bringing old materials to new shows, and if you want to watch an entire show of mine, you can go onto ABC iView and watch it for free, but this is not that,” he said.

“This is a group of people getting out together, having an experience together, which is completely flavoured by the audience.”

With no expectations of how the show will go, Wil is excited to get a taste of Airlie Beach.

“And certainly, my intention will be to make sure it’s a really fun night for people, however that plays out,” Wil said.

“I’m happy with a few characters to be involved in the show, they’re always a bit of fun.”

Wil says he loves meeting different sorts of people and is always up for a bit of banter with the audience, especially the lively characters.

“At one of my most recent shows, I had this guy in the front row who was very proudly a plumber, and I was like ‘I cannot believe you made it to the show on time!’.”

But not to worry, Wil won’t call on you unless you look keen and eager.

“I’m not there to pick on you, I’m actually there to find out something interesting about you then refine it and have some fun with it,” he explains.

“It’s never about ‘you’re wearing a dumb shirt’ unless someone is a dickhead first and then I’m very happy to use my comedic skills to maintain a bit of authority over the room.”

“Don’t get me wrong, if they start it, I’m happy to finish it.”

“That’s the thing with comedy, it’s a conversation with the audience, it’s as much about listening as it is about talking.

“All these things are about having a conversation with the audience, and I always say, it’s a collaboration.

“We’re about to make comedy together, and the good news is, I do all the hard work, you don’t need to try to be funny, you just have to answer my questions and I’ll do the job and make it funny!”

For one night only, only at the Airlie Beach Hotel, Wil Anderson Live. Get your tickets while you can!

WHAT: Wil Anderson Live

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Wednesday August 23, from 7pm

TICKETS: www.whitsundaytickets.com.au

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For a first for Airlie Beach Hotel, the iconic Wil Anderson is coming and he is bringing his all

The laughs will keep coming, with exciting audience interaction

Be sure to not miss Wil Anderson Live at the Airlie Beach Hotel. Photos supplied

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