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Friday 20 March Dancing With Heart 6:30pm A night of entertainment with a purpose, Dancing With Heart returns on Friday 20 March, bringing local personalities to the stage for a fun-filled dance competition. Guided by professional choreographers, participants will perform to raise funds for the My Hospital Foundation. Guests can enjoy dinner, vote for the People’s Choice Award and help support better outcomes for local patients and families. Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre Saturday 21 March New Moon Ultra “Off the Beaten Track” Trial Run Series 6am Test your endurance at this unique overnight trail running event held under the March new moon. Athletes can choose from 6km, 36km or 72km distances, with races starting every hour from 6pm through to 6am. Prize money is up for grabs, and participants will take on exclusive trails only open for this event — making it a one-of-a-kind challenge for runners of all levels. Rowallan Park Dads and Bubs Baby Bounce 10am Dads are invited to bond with their little ones at this fun and interactive Baby Bounce session. Featuring nursery rhymes, songs and playful activities, the session supports early language development from birth to walking age. It’s a great way to connect, create special memories and support your child’s growth. This is a free event, but bookings are essential. Dudley Denny City Library Autumn Orchid Show Saturday 8am – 4pm & Sunday 9am – 2pm The Mackay & District Orchid Society will host its annual Autumn Orchid Show on March 21–22 at the Senior Citizens Centre on Macalister Street, featuring a stunning display of flowering orchids alongside plants and gardening supplies for sale, including pots, potting medium, tags and hangers, with raffles and refreshments also available; the event runs from 8am to 4pm Saturday and 9am to 2pm Sunday, with a $2 coin entry, and further information is available by contacting President Noel Acton on 0409 637 384. Senior Citizens Centre, Macalister Street Rotary Charity Wine Dinner 5:30pm Enjoy an elegant evening of fine food and wine at the Rotary Charity Wine Dinner on Saturday 21 March. Featuring a five-course degustation with wine pairings, the night also includes a wine auction, raffle and lucky door prizes. Proceeds support charities assisting women and children impacted by domestic violence. Guests can expect a memorable night of dining, giving and community spirit. Harrup Park Country Club Sunday 22 March Cuppa With Your Neighbour – Northern Beaches 9am Connect with your community at this free “Cuppa with Your Neighbour” event on Saturday 22 March at the Northern Beaches Community Hub. Enjoy a complimentary coffee while meeting locals and making new connections in a relaxed, friendly setting. Proudly supported by the Mackay Regional Council, this welcoming event is open to everyone — whether you’re new to the area or a long-time resident. Northern Beaches Community Hub Tuesday 24 March Walk and Talk Book Club 8am Combine a love of reading with the outdoors at this unique walking book club set in the Botanic Gardens. Meet fortnightly for relaxed walks, chats and book discussions, with a new title to explore each month. Stay after for a social coffee and connect with fellow book lovers. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, sun protection and water for this enjoyable, wellbeing-focused community activity. Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens Wednesday 25 March Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam 6pm Enjoy a night of live music and laid-back vibes at the Mackay Blues Club Blues Jam on Wednesday 25 March at the Seabreeze Hotel. Featuring acclaimed pianist Andrew Farrell, the evening kicks off with a performance before opening the stage for a community jam session. Free entry, with dinner bookings recommended. 72 Pacific Esplanade, Mackay Thursday 26 March Wine Society March Event 6:30pm Wine lovers are invited to the first Wine Society event of 2026 at The Dispensary Mackay on Thursday 26 March. Guests will enjoy an evening of exceptional wine tastings paired with a specially designed menu, hosted by Graeme Connors. Open to both new and returning guests, this relaxed event promises great wine, food and company. The Dispensary Mackay
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The PCYC’s Awakening Spirits 2026 moved audiences on Wednesday 11 March with touching stories told through dance. An audience of more than 1000 was drawn to watch 200 performers in a sold-out session at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre. Awakening Spirits is an annual performance that brings together young people from 13 schools across Mackay, who take part in PCYC's Cultural Arts in Dance program. Since beginning in 2022, the audience has rocketed from just 175 people to a sold-out audience at the convention centre this year. The piece performed was ‘The Waterhole’, a concept and story developed by PCYC Queensland’s First Nations Coordinator and the man behind Cultural Arts In Dance, Patrick Thaiday. It is inspired by the magical stories of The Myths and Legends of the Torres Strait, a book written by the late Margaret Lawrie. The story begins with Tilly, a white sulphur-crested cockatoo, who watches as a plume of smoke rises from the canopy of the Australian outback bush lands. Indigenous warriors and hunters from communities conduct a cultural burn – a land management practice refined over thousands of years. From her vantage point, Tilly observes the hunters moving alongside the fire’s perimeter, tracking animals displaced by its flames. As the story goes on, the waterhole, long a point of convergence for countless species, begins to change. Tilly notices a dark, viscous substance appearing beneath the surface. Drawn by concern she descends to investigate. As her feet touch the water, the substance adheres to her feathers releasing harsh toxic fumes that engulf her feet. She takes flight only to be flipped over by the weight of her wings. Her bright plumage darkens rapidly, and her beak blackens under the spreading poison. When Tilly rises again, she is no longer the white cockatoo she once was. Transformed by the dark waters, she takes form of a willy wagtail – a creature associated with omens, messages, and transitions. This metamorphosis positions her within a larger conflict, linking her fate to forces that extend far beyond the waterholes edge. Now known as Willy the Wagtail, she becomes a bearer of warnings and stories, navigating a world where ancient myth and emerging threats collide. When the story of ‘The Waterhole’ ends, all performers returned to perform a choreographed dance to The Seekers song, I am Australian. We are one, but we are many And from all the lands on earth we come We'll share a dream and sing with one voice "I am, you are, we are Australian" The bright smiles, excitement, and emotion from the performers did not leave many dry eyes in the auditorium; the room filling with a feeling: this is what we want our Australia to be. Contributed with thanks to PCYC Queensland’s First Nations State Partnerships Manager Michael Cedar 1-4 - Spirits were high as Mackay’s young dancing stars took to the stage. Photos supplied.
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Follow the Sun’ to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music Xavier Rudd, Mental as Anything, The Whitlams and more on first lineup announcement for November 2026 The call is out for fans of Xavier Rudd to ‘Follow the Sun’ to the 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music from November 6-8. Set to arrive straight from a European festival tour, the popular Australian singer-songwriter says in addition to his much-loved catalogue of hits, a few surprises are in store for the Whitsunday audience, hinting: “There will be some new music at this show, which will be played for the first time in Australia”. Having visited Airlie Beach briefly on previous Australian tours, Rudd is already familiar with the region’s scenic beauty, but this will be his first time playing its signature event, dubbed a ‘party in paradise’ and the ‘ultimate music holiday’. “From the photos I’ve seen, the festival setting is amazing,” he said. “My music is definitely a celebration of our natural world, so a place like Airlie feels especially aligned with songs like ‘Follow the Sun’. “These are the kinds of shows I love, and hopefully, weather permitting, we can actually pull down the tent and play under the stars!” Equally as famous for his unwavering commitment to social and environmental activism as he is for his extraordinary gifts as a musician, the significance of playing at a destination known as the ‘Heart of the Great Barrier Reef’ isn’t lost on Rudd. “I’ve been lucky to witness some of the good work that people are doing in the world of reef regeneration and that’s inspiring,” he said. “Hopefully we can continue down that path.” Also urging festivalgoers to ‘Live it Up’ in Airlie Beach is beloved Australian band Mental As Anything, whose performance will form part of a historic 50th anniversary tour, comprising a limited number of exclusive festival appearances and select metropolitan headline shows. Original member and iconic pop artist, Reg Mombassa, is promising fans a rare and unforgettable opportunity to experience the band’s timeless hits live once more, and celebrate their unique blend of songwriting, artistry, and performance flair. “We’re known for being a party band, so the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is a perfect fit,” he said. In total agreeance that there’s ‘No Aphrodisiac’ quite like it are The Whitlams, whose frontman Tim Freedman says the band is thrilled to be one of the festival’s headliners for 2026. “I’ve been wanting to return to the Whitsundays for decades and now we have the chance,” he said, adding: “it’s a great line-up, music lifts the soul, and we rock!” Other additions to the first line-up release include The Radiators, Adam Harvey, 19-Twenty, Skinny Living (UK), Little Quirks, The Mason Rack Band, The Wayward Suns, Loonaloop, Salt & Steel and the Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2025 Passport to Airlie competition winners Monroe. Tickets are on sale now at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au costing $325 for a three-day pass, or $1100 for a VIP package, both including entry to the opening and after parties that bookend the main event. Ends Media Enquiries: media@airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au / 0402 126 461
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On Monday 16th March, North Queensland–raised Judah Kelly attended the 98th Academy Awards in Los Angeles, where the short film he starred in, The Singers, was awarded an Oscar. The film tied for the win with another short film, in an Oscars occurrence that whilst rare, is indeed possible. This is a huge achievement that represents years of hard work, building craft and nurturing talent; Judah has no doubt made the community incredibly proud. Born in Townsville, Judah attended school in Bowen where he took part in various school choirs, an experience that inspired his musicianship and developed his performance capabilities. He continued his secondary education in Mackay before attending the Junior Academy of Country Music in Tamworth (NSW). Judah auditioned for the X Factor in 2012 and 2014. Despite not finding success, he was not deterred, deciding to audition for The Voice in 2017. After singing ‘Tennessee Whiskey’ in a blind audition he made it through the finals, where he became the official winner of the sixth season. His newest achievement is receiving the Oscar as one of the stars of short film The Singers, which received an award for Best Live Action Short at 98th Academy Awards. Directed by filmmaker Sam Davis, the film is an 18-minute musical comedy which centres around a spontaneous singing competition that breaks out amongst a group of random patrons in a dive bar. The film is based on the 1850 Ivan Turgenev story of the same name. Prior to the academy awards, the film had already won 35 awards across 50 film festivals in 2025. Judah’s inclusion in the film came out of a unique casting process. Rather than hiring actors through traditional means, filmmaker Sam Davis spent months scouring the internet for authentic voices he believed would bring the story to life. As a result, Judah was sought out for his raw vocal talent. “At first they emailed me to ask me to be in the film and I don’t act so I thought it was just a scam”, Judah said in an interview to Channel Nine’s Today Show prior to the ceremony. “They were very persistent with getting me to act. Then I found out everyone was a first-time actor and we all thought it was a scam. It turned out they did want us for a film – it’s about men and vulnerability”. Following the victory, Judah took to Instagram to express his joy. “We don’t even know how to act. Our film just won an Oscar!” The film tied with another short feature marking only the seventh time in Oscars’ history that a category closed with two winners. This is a fantastic achievement, and Judah should be incredibly proud of his efforts. He has certainly made communities across Bowen and Mackay immensely proud. Captions Judah Kelly, local legend fresh from Oscar win. Photo sourced: Facebook
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“Clean up Mackay Region” will be held this year over six days during August in a bid to keep our region pristine.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the events were the perfect opportunity for residents to show their community pride and help keep our region beautiful.
“This year, council will step up and show our appreciation to our volunteers for their efforts by planting five native plants, either as street trees or revegetation, for each person who participates at an event,” Mayor Williamson said.
“These events are a great opportunity for our community to be proactive and lend a hand to help keep our region looking its best by collecting harmful plastics and other rubbish before it makes its way to our beautiful beaches, protecting our local waterways and wildlife in the process,” he said.
“With the combined efforts of council and our community, this year’s events will help to make our region cleaner and greener.”
This year, council has partnered with Mackay Airport, Sarina Landcare, Conservation Volunteers Australia, Grasstree Beach Progress Association, Mackay Board Riders, Mackay Land Rover Club and CQUniversity for the 2023 clean-ups.
Locations where you can join in the clean-up include:
Friday, August 11
· Shellgrit Creek, Bridge Road – 1pm to 3pm
Saturday, August 12
· Illawong Drive – 9am to 11am
· Sandfly Creek Reserve – 3pm to 5pm
Sunday, August 13
· Riverside Drive – 9am to 11am
· Hodges Road, Shoal Point – 9am to 11am
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
Members of the community are also welcome to host their own clean-up events at sites they have noticed are worthy of a clean-up. Once registered, they will be provided with bags and gloves for their clean-up event.
Volunteers are asked to wear closed-in shoes, a hat, insect repellent and sunscreen.
Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
Will you step up? Register today at www.cleanup.org.au/mackay or just turn up on the day.
For more information, contact council’s Resource Recovery Education Officer, Bruce Thompson on 0417 741 169.
Mackay residents can join the biggest community clean-up to help keep our region beautiful. Clean Up Mackay Region is being held at sites around the region during August
Get ready to twirl into a world of enchantment and laughter as the effervescent Emma Memma presents her wondrous Twirly Tour, with three shows here in Mackay.
With a sprinkle of magic and a dash of imagination, Emma Memma invites all young adventurers and their families on an extraordinary journey filled with joy, dancing, and delightful surprises. Join in the fun as she introduces her brand-new characters and mesmerizing dance moves that will have everyone twirling with glee.
We caught up with the fabulous Emma Watkins (Emma Memma), formerly known as the Yellow Wiggle, to get an exclusive sneak peek into what promises to be a fun and inclusive show for children of all ages.
Emma's transition from the Yellow Wiggle to a different captivating children's entertainer has been nothing short of delightful.
"Emma Memma allows me to expand upon new areas of visual communication to help achieve greater accessibility for all children," Emma shares with a twinkle in her eye. With a passion for inclusivity, she aims to create a show that is not only fun but also engaging and attainable for everyone.
One of the highlights of the Twirly Tour is the incorporation of Auslan into the performances.
"Movement is everyone's first form of communication, so we aim to build on this foundation to make our content more fun, engaging, and inclusive," Emma explains. Auslan, Australian Sign Language, plays a significant role in making the show accessible to all children. Emma and her team use Auslan throughout the entire performance, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the magic with movement.
So, what can young audiences and their families expect from the Twirly Tour?
"Audiences can expect to see everything they know and love about Emma, but now with all new characters and catchy dance actions to try for adults and children alike," Emma reveals with excitement.
The Twirly Tour will take place at BCC Cinemas, adding an extra touch of grandeur to the show. With the use of animations projected on the enormous movie screen, young adventurers will be transported to a world of magic and wonder.
"The BCC Cinema's in-house movie projector is by far the largest screen we've ever used, and we are very excited about it!" Emma exclaims.
Emma's commitment to inclusivity extends to ticket sales as well.
"Our whole show is accessible in Auslan and English, and Elvin, myself, and our dancers use Auslan throughout the entire performance," Emma shares.
For audience members who require interpretation, special Auslan tickets are available, ensuring that every child can fully experience the magic of the Twirly Tour. Additionally, photos and videos during the show are always welcome, and lucky fans may even get a snap with Emma and her friend Elvin!
One of the most heartwarming aspects of Emma Memma's shows is their appeal to all ages.
"We often see babies right through to 20-somethings and grandparents joining in the fun," Emma reveals.
The performances are gentle, calming, and perfect for little ones or audience members who may be sensitive to loud noises or strong lighting. No matter the age, everyone is invited to twirl into a world of pure imagination.
Having previously visited Mackay, Emma Memma holds fond memories of the warm reception she received. "Mackay is always so lovely and welcoming," she said.
"We can't wait for our friends in Mackay to meet BB Butterfly, Waffles the Wombat, and Elvin Melvin at our first-ever Emma Memma shows in Mackay, see you there!"
What: Emma Memma’s Twirly Tour
When: Monday August 7, 10am, 12pm, 2:30pm
Where: BCC Cinemas Mt Pleasant
Tickets: livenation.com.au/show/1431006/emma-memma/mackay
Emma Memma and Elvin Melvin will be entertaining children in Mackay this Monday during the Twirly Tour. Photo credit: Jared Lyons
This evening, thousands of people will gather on grassy banks, smooth rocks and sandy outcrops to watch the Friday Night Fireworks erupt into vibrant pops of colour over the bay on Airlie Beach Foreshore.
Celebrating the official beginning of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, the fireworks are a crowd-favourite and a symbol of exciting times ahead – with an action-packed event calendar ready to impress over the whole weekend.
Sponsored by the Whitsunday Regional Council, the fireworks are set-off from across the bay, blasting up into the night’s sky and visible from many local vantage points.
Join the party on a rooftop bar, gather the kids on a picnic blanket or walk to a grassy knoll at the edge of the lagoon – wherever you are, feel connected and liberated by the fireworks that are there for everyone and can be seen by everyone.
“Watching the fireworks is definitely one of my favourite parts of the whole event,” said Great Barrier Reef Festival President, Margie Murphy.
“It is the moment when all the plans and preparations are in place and everyone gathers together, excited for a fabulous weekend ahead!”
WHAT: Friday Night Fireworks
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
WHEN: Friday, August 4
TIME: 8pm
Maximise Your Friday Night!
• Come down early to watch the Lantern Parade from 6pm
• Make sure you check out the Immerse Art Installation
• The kids will love the fun fair rides and side show alley
• Bring your picnic blanket for the open-air movie – Finding Nemo
Embracing the festival-themes of community, creativity and raising awareness for the environment, the Friday evening Night Markets are a treasure trove of home-made wares, recyclable arts, and cottage industry delights.
A part of the Great Barrier Reef Festival since 2018, the Night Markets were quick to become a popular event, attracting over 60 stall holders and hundreds of browsing attendees.
Shrouded by a starry night sky, the markets are lit-up like a beacon, drawing festival-goers from along the Foreshore into the bustling arms of Eat Street and the dozens of market stalls.
Artist, Margaret Burgess, has been a stall holder since its inception and says that the addition of the markets has drawn bigger crowds to the festival year by year.
“It’s a great atmosphere at the markets,” she said.
“Plus, it gives people the opportunity to sell their wares, it’s wonderful to see so many hand-made products for sale that are also environmentally friendly.”
From hemp fabric clothes and linen by Tracey Robb to cow bone carvings by Proserpine local, Mel Burns, and of course Margaret’s reimagined China and sea glass jewellery, there is plenty to see and explore at the markets.
Discover unique locally made pottery, hand-made fragrant candles and soaps, gemstones, and original marine memorabilia.
There will also be Face painting for the children, Great Barrier Marine Festival merchandise for sale plus LED light fun products to get the party started.
WHAT: Night Markets
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
WHEN: Friday, August 4 from 5pm
Traffic will be halted on the bustling main street of Airlie Beach this Saturday and the steady flow of vehicles will be replaced by a plethora of colourful community events for the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Saturday Street Fun.
A hive of activity for festival goers to enjoy, the day will kick-off with Fraser Ford Revvin’ the Reef Car Show.
Car enthusiasts from all over the region have been busy polishing their ‘pride and joy’, ready to display amongst a sea of other cars, bikes, and trucks.
Beautiful Pin-Up Girls will wander through the crowd with Rock and Roll music completing the nostalgic ambiance of yesteryear.
Continuing with the leisurely yet dynamic pace, there will be continuous activities throughout the day.
Roving Street Performers will surprise and amaze, Wildlife Whitsunday will bring along native wildlife and there will be live music throughout the day.
Attendees are welcome to head to the nearby Art Expo and cast their vote for the People’s Choice award, or cruise down to the Airlie Beach Hotel for a lazy afternoon listening to some Classic Rock Legends.
Hungry? Head down to the Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street where you’ll find a hot bed of food vans selling a range of delicious treats.
Then, at 4pm the main street transforms into a racetrack for the Medibank Magic Mile, where children, adults, and everyone in between are invited to participate.
Enjoy the cheers from onlookers as you dash by at top speed and challenge yourself in this exciting event.
The day finishes with the iconic Rotary Street Parade, a colourful and worthy finale to an action-packed event.
WHAT: Saturday Street Fun
WHERE: Airlie Beach Main Street
WHEN: Saturday, August 5 – all day!
Along with the official opening of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, be sure to head down to the main stage to see famous headliner Reece Mastin, who will be followed by popular duo Salt and Steel.
Bringing high energy and good vibes to the opening night, quality live music sets the pace of what’s to come.
Reece Mastin gets the crowd pumping with his pop-rock tunes, while Salt and Steel offer edgy raw music that is perfectly paired with rock.
WHAT: Reece Mastin and Salt and Steel
WHERE: Beach Stage, Airlie Beach Foreshore
WHEN: Friday August 4, from 6.30pm
Relive the glory days with the Airlie Beach Hotel, hosting the fantastic rock trio of Dellacoma Rio, Shaleena Bain and Tara Graham.
Full of heart pumping tunes and classic anthems, these rockers embody the best names of the 80s and 90s, in a production full of thrills and spills.
WHAT: Classic Rock Legends of the 80s and 90s
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday August 5, 2.30pm to 5pm
With the chill tunes of Sun Salute, the Beats on the Beach is the best of Saturday night music.
Joining the Beach Stage is The Wild Sky, with classic blues beats that thrum through their soulful tunes, Mish ‘n’ Possible, with her powerful vocals and fantastically uplifting sound, and Flying Double Front Kick, Airlie Beach’s own rockers.
WHAT: Beats on the Beach
WHERE: Beach Stage, Airlie Beach Foreshore
WHEN: Saturday August 5, from 6pm
The party continues on Saturday night with The Chats and Cosmic Psychos, in an unforgettable duo performance that brings young and old together under one roof.
Cosmic Psychos bring the beer-fuelled Australia punk rock, with absolutely no class, and even less cares.
While The Chats are the up-and-comers on the Aussie punk rock scene, bringing with them some ‘shed rock’ that rivals Cosmic Psychos.
WHAT: The Chats and Cosmic Psychos
WHERE: Magnums Club
WHEN: Saturday August 5, from 8pm
What a way to send off a mammoth weekend of live music, family fun, and unstoppable adventure!
Chill in the Park is one of the final events on the Great Barrier Reef Festival agenda, rounding out the event with legendary music and local artists.
The line-up includes The David Flower Band, with folk-rock music that will leave you swaying to the beat, and Erin Rues, this Airlie Beach local is an absolute powerhouse vocalist with an attitude to match.
Don’t miss Didgera, with their groovy tribal rhythmic beats of jazz and reggae, and Sam Bannink, creating an atmosphere perfect for a Sunday afternoon of sun with his guitar and soulful songs.
Send off the 2023 iteration of the Great Barrier Reef Festival with this chill afternoon of some of the best classic Airlie Beach hits.
WHAT: Chill in the Park
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
WHEN: Sunday August 6, from 1.30pm
DID YOU KNOW?
You can book a VIP area at Point Bar and receive a free cocktail and nibbles with an ocean view
Mish ‘n’ Possible will bring eclectic beats and uplifting tracks
Reece Mastin headlining Friday night will set the scene for this summer loving festival
This three-piece ensemble, The Wild Sky appears as the rock and roll blues centre of the Beats on the Beach lineup
Airlie Beach local, Flying Double Front Kick brings us home, with alternative rock tunes and beats to match
Coming back to their roots, Sun Salute will be cruising into Airlie Beach this weekend for the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
Formed in the cool snow of Falls Creek in Victoria, duo Jarrah Kurth and Tane Tokorangi moved up north to the warm climate of Airlie Beach and created the Sun Salute band with its seven other band members.
“Over the course of the last few years, we grew into a seven-piece band, as we began playing records and needed more instruments,” explains Jarrah, who is on the drums for Sun Salute.
Together, they called Airlie Beach home for five years, before each of the members made their way south, some to Byron Bay, others the Sunshine Coast, and some in Melbourne.
But the energy of the music never left them, with the members regularly travelling for shows and to record new music.
“When we do come together and play, it’s a great energy on stage,” said Jarrah.
“We love playing together and we’re all great friends, and I think people can feel that.
“It’s a special special energy, and we’re just stoked to come back to Airlie Beach.”
On the line-up is Tane Tokorangi, with melodic vocals and guitar, Airlie Beach local Dylan Hammond on bass and vocals, Saia Latau with the keyboard and vocals, and Nestor Galapia with percussion.
Chris Booroff on guitar and trumpet, and Chelsea McNeiley on saxophone, are also welcome additions.
Sun Salute have become a synonymous staple on the reggae, roots, and funk scene, with eclectic electric tunes and the perfect vibes for a Saturday night performance.
Returning to Airlie Beach almost yearly, this will be the first time the full band performs for the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
“We began in Airlie, it’s where we grew the band and we’re excited to be able to play in front of lots of familiar faces,” said Jarrah.
And lucky for Airlie Beach, Sun Salute will perform one or two of their unreleased upcoming tracks, for the crowd.
“It’s all funky reggae, good vibes, good energy, and good connection,” Jarrah said.
“To get everybody together to be able to write new music, yeah it’s a bit challenging, but this just makes it so much more special to be able to spend time together in the studio writing and playing, it’s a lot of fun.
“And everybody in the band is a songwriter, everyone’s got creativity.
“So many ideas and so much inspiration to bring to the music, we’re never short of any ideas musically, it’s just getting together and getting it recorded.”
WHAT: Sun Salute for Beats On the Beach
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore, Beach Stage
WHEN: Saturday 5 August, from 6pm
Old school fun is on the cards for this year’s Team Kerr Family Fun Day!
With a jampacked collection of events and activities running throughout the day, every member of the family will racing around to give everything a go!
What is on offer?
Check out the Eco Barge Sculpture tent and chat with representatives from the Master Reef Guides and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority who will be there all day alongside a Daydream Island display about the living reef.
The Ngaro and Giya Traditional Owners will also be hosting events, teaching everyone the art of storytelling, weaving, ochre painting and the perfect way to throw a boomerang.
Grab your treasure hunt card, and get stamped at each and every stall for your chance to win in the treasure chest prize draw, where kids will learn about the environment in a fun way.
Try your hand at the always popular donut eating competition, get involved with the circus workshops and other free kid’s activities.
Be sure to stick around for the foam party, sandcastle competition and good old sack and three-legged races which are sure to cause laughter and smiles for all involved, with the Recyclable Regatta to round out the fun.
WHAT: Team Kerr Family Fun Day
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
WHEN: Sunday August 6, from 10am to 2pm
Get your running shoes on, the Medibank Magic Mile is back for the 2023 Great Barrier Reef Festival!
Hosted by the Whitsunday Running Club, the event takes place along the Airlie Beach Main Street.
No matter the ability, everyone is encouraged to give it a go, with cash prizes up for grabs for the adults.
“It’s always a great day,” said Andrea Farley, from the Whitsunday Running Club.
“The lead up is always exciting, and it’s so cool to be able to run down the main street.
“I want everyone to give it a red-hot crack and try and win some cash!”
WHAT: Medibank Magic Mile
WHERE: Airlie Beach Main Street
WHEN: Saturday August 6, at 4pm
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Get your swimmers on, it’s time for the unforgettable Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta.
A fan favourite for the Great Barrier Reef Festival, the Recyclable Regatta tests patience, determination, and communication, and is always a laugh for spectators and other competitors.
High-sea pirate shenanigans are sure to ensue, with all sorts of community groups and school groups getting in on the fun of the event.
And what have you got to do?
Make your raft out of recycled materials and find a crew of up to three.
Now, all you’ve gotta do is paddle it around the course and be sure not to lose a crewmember!
Register your raft at greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au.
WHAT: Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
WHEN: Sunday August 6, 2pm to 3pm
Speeding to the Whitsundays for a whirlwind visit before his next race on the Queensland Race Way is professional racing car driver, Nick Lange, who will be attending the Fraser Ford Revvin’ the Reef car show on Saturday.
A previous Whitsunday local, Nick lived in Airlie Beach for 15 years and loves returning to the region to give back to the community and say thank you to his local sponsors.
On the day, he will be parked outside KC’s Bar and Grill with his brand-new Chevvy Camaro, one of 100 cars of this kind that participate in Production Car Racing in Australia.
Nick is a self-funded motor enthusiast who has worked his way up the ranks to compete alongside some of the best racers in the country.
“It’s good to be up against the big names now,’ he said.
“To be rubbing shoulders with the best of the best is pretty awesome!”
Nick started his career in the early 2000s and worked his way up to driving in Production Car Racing, competing in the Bathurst 12-hour endurance race.
He has also worked as support crews for the V8 Super Cars and travelled the country for the sport.
He is now looking forward to bringing it home for the Whitsunday community and excited to participate in this weekend’s car show.
“I’ve got heaps of posters to sign and giveaway,” he said.
“And I’ll be happy to answer any questions about the motorsports industry, let people sit in the car and get a photo with me.”
Professional racing car driver, Nick Lange. Photo supplied
With almost 50 submissions, the inaugural Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Show is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the event this year.
Embracing the broader festival theme, the art show ‘Grandeur of the Humpback Whales’ invited submissions comprising of whales, the reef, the Whitsundays and the environment above and below sea level.
Organiser, Leigh Skead from Creative Connections Whitsundays, said she was “totally floored” by the number of entrees.
“We pulled it together at the last minute and so many local artists came out of the woodwork,” she explained.
“We are very pleased with the response, and it is great to see young kids right through to people who could command thousands of dollars for their artwork participate.”
The Art Show is being held at Beach Plaza, next to La Tabella Restaurant on the Airlie Beach Esplanade, and will be open throughout the festivities.
Build upon community connection, the judging for the best artwork is entirely ‘people’s choice’ with everyone encouraged to come and take a look at the art before casting their vote to select a worthy winner.
There is only one overall winner announced and attendees are also invited to purchase raffle tickets to support ongoing art events in the region.
WHAT: Art Show
WHERE: Beach Plaza (next to La Tabella)
WHEN: August 3-6
OPEN TIMES: Thurs 9am-3pm, Fri-Sat 10am till late, Sun 10am-4pm
Two of the impressive submissions entering into the Art Show Competition. Images supplied
Having spent the better part of 18 years working closely with the ocean and tourism, Crystal Lacey has perfected her expertise, skills, and knowledge, and is using it to positively influence the Whitsundays.
Stepping onto the Great Barrier Reef Festival committee in 2022, 2023 has seen her take the helm as Environmental Coordinator.
Tasked with enhancing the festival to encompass the environmental aspects of the reef, Crystal has helped curate fantastic immersive and educational opportunities for festival attendees to experience some of the very best of the Great Barrier Reef in a time of utmost attention to the Reef.
“We are bringing the Great Barrier Reef to life for the Great Barrier Reef Festival,” Crystal explains.
“Enhancing the Festival in these key spaces, from idea and concept to the actual event.”
Closely partnered with Reef educational bodies and eco-tourism operators, the Great Barrier Reef Festival provides in depth knowledge and education for community members and festival attendees.
Crystal was also integral with incorporation of indigenous leaders into the Festival line up, with indigenous leaders opening the Festival on Friday evening and leading many of the education classes and workshops.
In particular, Master Reef Guides will be playing a big part of the upcoming festival, leading various educational workshops and opportunities.
“This is the biggest collection of Master Reef Guides ever to be arranged,” Crystal said.
Crystal initially approached the Great Barrier Reef Committee in 2022.
“I wanted to bring the reef to the festival so I said, ‘this is what we should do and this is how we can do it’.”
Crystal has an extensive history of tourism, marine boating, and ocean activities, and has moved into eco-tourism, conservation, and education, through her business, Little Fish Tourism.
She was instrumental in the Welcome to the Whales event last month and a driving force behind pushing for the Whitsundays to become an accredited Whale Heritage Site, with the World Cetacean Alliance.
The Great Barrier Reef Festival theme for 2023 is to celebrate the whales, which goes hand-in-hand with gaining this accreditation.
Crystal Lacey has been highly influential in eco-tourism and edu-tourism, stepping into the role of Environmental Coordinator for the Great Barrier Reef Festival
The Master Reef Guides will be running workshops and information sessions throughout the Festival. Photos supplied
Taking pride of place at the heart of the Immerse Art Installation are an eight-metre mother whale and her three-metre-long calf.
Creating these majestic art pieces is renowned and highly respected regional artist, Margaret Burgess, who has dedicated “months and months” of work to lovingly re-create these two enormous sculptures.
Constructed with a timber spine and cane ribs, every join of the tough and durable centre is individually drilled, its design aiming to create a sculpture that can endure and shine at events for years to come.
Its outer ‘skin’ is made from cotton spandex, with the humpback’s striking black and white colours finishing the overall effect.
Margaret has been an artist for over 30 years and moved into the spotlight with her Plastic Boutique series of installations that were exhibited in Canelands Shopping Centre in Mackay.
She regularly hosts inspiring workshops and is the driving force behind many environmentally relevant art initiatives throughout the region.
“The Great Barrier Reef Festival ticks all my boxes,” she said.
“Creativity, the environment – I just love being part of it all!
“It’s an intensely busy period but it’s also so rewarding to stand back and say ‘wow!’
“I also love working with the rest of the team, we are always growing and evolving and aspiring to create something spectacular.”
The whale component of the Immerse Art Installation will be transported from Midge Point to Fairy Tree Park on Friday.
Immerse 2023 is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.
WHAT: Immerse Art Installation
WHERE: Fairy Tree Park
WHEN: 4-6 August
Respected regional artist, Margaret Burgess, with the whale sculpture at her home studio. Photo supplied
The Whales form an integral part of Immerse Art Installation. Photo supplied
In 1960, “Mischief” was Queensland’s fastest displacement hull racing boat, achieving a speed of 69.862 mph (112.4 kph) at Home Hill; an accomplishment recognised and recorded by the Australian Power Boat Association. “Mischief” was built especially for Clement Cecil Walton, (known as Mick) by Lewis Bros, Taren Point, Sydney.
For the boating enthusiasts amongst our readers - the boat had an Iskerdenan camshaft which is still regarded as one of the best in high performance racing. It also had an aircraft inertia starter motor which made it tricky to start. Other features included a centre-mounted 283 cubic inch Corvette engine with a capacity for speed; an upward angled propeller shaft and props placement to the rear of the transom.
The quest for speed in Unlimited Class Racing Skiff meant both vessels and driver were under great stress. At all times, the occupants had to use their weight and fight the torque (turning effect) generated by the engine.
Light and graceful in design, “Mischief” was a powerhouse, reaching unofficial speeds of 72 mph (116kph) over the quarter mile. The boat occasionally became airborne in great 20-to-30-foot leaps, jarring the two occupants from side to side as the skeg re-entered the water. Idling was not one of her talents.
Mick always carried a spare propellor because when “Mischief” leapt out of the water, she would spin the prop shaft.
Mick went through 14 co-pilots in one season until Charlie Law and Billy Trail came along. They both suffered broken ribs and were sometimes thrown out at high speed. Mick would leave the skiff on its trailer and one of the co-pilots, either Charlie Law or Billy Trail, would put XXXX cans up the twin exhausts. But according to Charlie, it was larrikins who would stuff empty beer cans up the exhaust pipes just to see how powerful an engine could react. Who the larrikins were, we will never really know. Not surprisingly, when the engine built up enough pressure it would fire up and shoot cans out of the pipes at great rate of knots.
Mick raced all over Queensland including Hutchinson Lagoon (Burdekin), Lake Elphingstone and Groper Creek and Shingley Beach where locals were treated to the thrills and spills of fast boats in action. “Mischief” and Mick chalked up many successes, for example, on December 8, 1960, “they” won the Power Boat Associations’ Queensland Short Couse Displacement Championship in the unlimited cubic inch shift class hull section. Over the new year weekend of 1961, Mick won the Queensland State Championship comfortably in the final heat. During an elimination heat, one of the water-cooling hoses flew off but Charlie Law, who was riding with Mick, forced the hose back into position and held it there – they were a great team.
Over the years, “Mischief” and its crew certainly lived up to the name.
But for now, more than six decades later, “Mischief” is no longer making mischief! It rests in Stage Two of the Proserpine Historical Museum after being bequeathed from the estate of Mick’s wife, Dawn. “Mischief” has been carefully restored by museum volunteers and is waiting for you to have a peep into our museum where you can admire this piece of boating history and marvel at the talent of its owner and co-pilots.
Story and photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum and Mr Jim Walton.
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