Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Holy Spirit College (HSC) Mackay has reinforced its reputation as a leader in STEM education by hosting 48 enthusiastic young engineers from eight local Catholic Primary Schools for an inspiring Heavy Hydraulics Workshop. The event, held at the Father Bucas Centre, transformed the space into a dynamic hub of innovation, collaboration, and hands-on learning. A Day of Engineering Excellence The STEM Day challenged Year 5 and 6 students to step into the world of industrial design and mechanical engineering. Under expert guidance, they tackled two exciting challenges: Digital Prototyping: Using TinkerCAD software, students designed custom vehicle chassis, gaining confidence with cutting-edge Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools. Mechanical Assembly: Teams then brought their designs to life by constructing functional hydraulic arms, learning how fluid pressure can be harnessed to lift heavy loads. Penelope from St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School, West Mackay said, "The best part of the day was when we got to make our own hydraulic arm and then design the base in TinkerCAD.” Partnership Power This high-quality learning experience was made possible through HSC’s collaboration with the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA). Their invaluable support and expertise enabled students to experience real-world engineering concepts inspired by the mining and construction industries. Holy Spirit College Principal, Mrs Alison Wales highlighted the significance of industry partnerships: "Events like our STEM Day are a wonderful example of how we can inspire the next generation of problem-solvers and innovators, equipping them with the skills they need to succeed in the future." Inspiring the Next Generation The day wasn’t just about technical skills—it was also about fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and resilience. "We had to work as a group to make the machine work, everyone had their part to do" shared Hadley from St Anne’s Catholic Primary School, Sarina showcasing the problem-solving mindset encouraged at HSC. As the students returned to their schools, they carried with them a deeper understanding of the engineering principles that power the modern world—and a spark of inspiration for the future. Holy Spirit College remains committed to nurturing young minds through initiatives like this, ensuring students are equipped for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. Holy Spirit College Mackay has inspired 48 primary students through a hands-on hydraulics STEM workshop with QMEA, giving them real-world experience in engineering, design and teamwork. Photos supplied
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This month Mackay Hospital and Health Service celebrate 10 years of Deadly Choices in the region. A colourful community and cultural event at Victoria Park State School brought together Traditional Elders, community members, local groups and organisations and healthcare staff to mark a decade of empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to make healthy lifestyle choices. From cultural activities and health promotion stalls to plenty of fun for families, it was a day to reflect on the growth of strong partnerships, proud achievements and the lasting impact of this incredible program. Deadly Choices has always been supported by dedicated ambassadors, including the 10-year anniversary celebration special guest and Australian professional women’s rugby league player Tallisha Harden, who inspires Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities through her leadership and advocacy. Another highlight of the anniversary celebration was the acknowledgement of Aunty Joan, whose unwavering commitment to the program since 2015 has made a lasting impact.
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Three new exhibitions were previewed last Friday at Artspace Mackay ahead of their official opening on Saturday 18th April, offering an early look at works spanning contemporary metal practice, cultural heritage and contemporary visual storytelling. At the centre of the new program is Matters of Time: Contemporary Metal Practices, which will be presented in the Main Gallery until June 21. The exhibition explores the evolving role of metal in contemporary art and its relationship with time, bridging traditional smithing techniques with modern metalworking approaches. Curator Catherine Woolley said the exhibition was developed to strengthen connections between contemporary artists and regional audiences. “This particular exhibition was really interested in connecting contemporary artists with regional areas,” she said. The exhibition features artists from across Australia as well as international contributors, with metal itself central to the exhibition’s themes due to its transformative nature. “It’s such an incredibly transformative material. It can be melted down, it can be reused. It also responds to atmospheric conditions, so it rusts and erodes and weathers.” She said the artists draw on these qualities to explore ideas around time, change and environmental impact. “The artists are also questioning around extraction, metals and material that’s mined from the earth, so they’re often thinking about more sustainable ways that we can work with this material through both art and design practices.” Also now open to the public is Poco a poco, se va lejos (Little by little, you go far) by Joshua Searle in the Foyer Gallery, alongside Skeletons by Judy Watson in the Foundation Gallery. Searle said his work draws on traditional ceramic forms from Colombia alongside a personal exploration of family history. “They were taken from traditional ceramic forms in Colombia,” he said. “A couple of years ago I was fortunate enough to work with museums and archaeologists in Colombia for a few months, looking at my family’s history and the traditional histories and sculpture practices of Colombia.” He said presenting the work in Mackay had been a meaningful experience. “I’m super excited to be here in Mackay. We’ve had the pleasure of getting to experience a lot of the beautiful natural areas that Mackay’s got to offer.” Searle also praised the collaboration with the gallery team. “It’s been an amazing opportunity to work with the whole team at Artspace Mackay. It’s just a pleasure to share this work with the community up here.” Even during installation, the exhibition prompted early public engagement, with two encounters leaving a lasting impression. “A wonderful woman who works in the café next door was coming in with some Spanish tongue twisters associated with the artwork.” “There was also another woman whose husband had just been diagnosed with quite severe illness and she said that seeing that work at this time meant so much to her,” Mr Searle said. “That really stuck with me.” Mackay Regional Councillor Heath Paton said the exhibitions marked an important cultural step for the region. “We’ve always had beautiful pieces on display, but having these works here of this calibre is just a great step in the right direction for us as a region,” he said. The exhibition program at Artspace Mackay runs through until June 21, with Matters of Time: Contemporary Metal Practices anchoring the Main Gallery and highlighting an extended season of contemporary, cultural and international works on display. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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From circus-style spectacle to nostalgic musicals and laugh-out-loud comedy, May is shaping up to be a packed month at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, with something on the calendar for every kind of night out. Kicking things off in style is the Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball on 2 May, transforming the venue into a James Bond-inspired evening of glamour, entertainment and fundraising. Guests can expect a three-course gala dinner, live music from Brisbane band Beccy & The Jets, and plenty of action throughout the night, from auctions and raffles to casino-style games, all in support of The Salvation Army’s Family Violence Service and The Neighbourhood Community Hub’s Food Diversion Program. Just days later, the stage is set for a bold reimagining of a classic, with Duck Pond arriving on 6 May. Presented by Circa, the performance puts a playful, contemporary twist on Swan Lake, blending acrobatics, aerials and humour into a high-energy circus spectacular suitable for all ages. Comedy fans won’t want to miss Luke Kidgell, who brings his Good Intentions tour to Mackay on 7 May. Known for his viral crowd work and unfiltered humour, Kidgell’s latest show promises plenty of unexpected moments and adult-themed laughs. Later in the month, musical lovers can take their pick between singing along or sitting back and soaking up the show, as Grease hits the stage from 21 to 23 May. The production includes a special singalong performance, inviting audiences to belt out classics like Summer Nights and Greased Lightnin’, alongside traditional showings of the beloved story set at Rydell High. Families are also well catered for, with Pevan & Sarah in Concert bringing high-energy, interactive fun to the stage on 29 May. The popular duo blends music, education and plenty of laughs in a show designed to entertain both kids and their grown-ups. Rounding out the month is The Big Chill Out on 30 May, a feel-good tribute concert celebrating the iconic soundtrack that helped revive Motown. Featuring hits from legendary artists like Marvin Gaye, Aretha Franklin and Smokey Robinson, the show promises a night of soul, nostalgia and timeless music performed live by a 10-piece band. With a mix of theatre, music, comedy and community events, the MECC’s May program offers plenty of reasons to get out and experience Mackay’s thriving arts and entertainment scene.
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I overheard a real estate agent the other day saying that write-ups are a “thing of the past”.
In the modern world we live in it is true that previously important and highly valued features of life are indeed things of the past.
The horse and buggy is, largely, a “thing of the past”. As much as I like the monochrome image, it is undoubtedly true that black and white televisions are a thing of the past.
Video recorders, tape decks, the typewriter and the polaroid instamatic camera are all deserving of being labelled a thing of the past.
The history of human habitation of our planet is a catalogue of things that were once useful and highly valued but, thanks to the march of human advancement, became things of the past.
We don’t see modern armies confronting the enemy with bows and arrows much these days. Rarely do sailing ships with hundreds of people on board traverse the oceans to begin life in the New World.
There are some things that have stood the test of time and, while they might have evolved, they have not become things of the past.
A piece of art is a good example. Yes, art has changed … witness installation art and other forms of contemporary artistic expression displays show creativity in a very different way.
But the good old painting on canvas has not gone away. Many modern artists still paint the same way the masters did centuries ago. The most expensive paintings are those done years ago by now-dead artists.
Those painters might be of the past but their works are as relevant and important today as ever. Their paintings are not “things of the past”.
Now, as I climb down from my high horse to make my point I will say that in a world of social media videos, Instagram, text messaging and email alerts there is still a vital role for real estate write-ups.
Yes, we must evolve and make the most of every single bit of modern technology to market and sell real estate to the very best of our ability, but the write-up still has a crucial place.
People need information and a well-presented and thought-out write-up provides that but it also creates the emotional connection that many buyers need if you are going to attract them to a property.
There are other important tools beyond the write-up that we must all master but if an agent doesn’t put thought into a write-up they are letting down the seller and failing to reach all potential buyers. So there!
We’ve officially hit cold and flu season!
Literally every time we get a change of season or an out-of-the-norm week of weather, I’m someone who starts getting sick instantly. I swear by the cold and flu liquid by Sambucol. It’s not only delicious but, nine times out of ten I’ll wake up the next day feeling, if not entirely better, 90 per cent better. I promise this is not sponsored (but I’ll take it if they want to partner – HEY SAMBUCOL MARKETING TEAM!) so I thought we could take a look at a couple of obscure cold and flu remedies from around the world.
Gogol Mogol
From European descent, this remedy is an egg-based concoction that can be made for children and with a splash of rum or cognac. Egg yolk is whisked together with honey or sugar, then poured into milk that has been heated with unsalted butter. The verdict is still out on the actual medical benefits of this remedy, they do say that it is possible the egg helps coat the throat to make it feel less scratchy and given hot milk has tryptophan, it may help you sleep.
Lizard Soup
Yes, this is just as appealing as it sounds! Stemming from Chinese herbal medicine remedies, this soup is the same idea as having a big bowl of chicken noodle soup. Making up this concoction will require yams, Chinese dates, and dried lizards simmered together in water. I don’t know where you’d find dried lizards other than shriveled up on a pathway somewhere but I’ll be putting this one down to a HARD no. Again, the medical benefits are out on this one, but extra fluids for hydration and loosening mucus never hurt no one.
While they’re a couple of extremes you can go to in order to treat a bout of the coughs and sniffles, if you prefer to stick to a more conservative option, that’s okay too. Whatever you’re using to keep yourself well through this weird cold and flu season, I hope it works and you and your family can stay as healthy as possible.
Kaley
Friday SUN.sets
Every Friday Evening From 6pm
Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.
Wake House Australia
Friday Jazz @ The Con
Friday, 6:00pm
CQCM Music Staff present Friday Jazz @ the Con featuring Dr David Reaston (guitar), Dr Peter McKenzie (saxophone), Jason Smyth-Tomkins (drums). The July concert will feature Australian trombonist and current CQU trombone lecturer, Jeremy Borthwick.
Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music
Open Mic Comedy
Friday, 7:00pm
Mackay Open Mic Comedy Group is back on the July 28 at the Ambassador Hotel in the Lush Bar. If you have been thinking about giving comedy a crack, even your best dad jokes, now is your chance. This month Sean Cooper from Townsville will headline and Mackay's own Mathew Brand will emcee.
Ambassador Hotel
Mackay Yarn on the Voice
Saturday, 11:00am
Join Yes23 spokespeople Thomas Mayo and Jade Appo-Ritchie for an in-person yarn about the upcoming Voice Referendum. You will learn about why constitutional recognition of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples through a Voice to Parliament is a crucial step on the path to creating a better future. You’ll have a chance to ask questions and learn about how you can engage with the campaign locally.
CQUniversity Mackay City
Mackay Twilight Market
Saturday, 4:00pm to 8:30pm
Come and browse the many local small business market stalls, then have a seat and listen to local musicians all while enjoying the yummy food Mackay food trucks have to offer. ATM on site for customers convenience. $2 Adult Entry (Kids 17 & under free). Entry fee collected at the door on your way in. Market stalls, mini eat street, local musician, jumping castles and face painting. Come and enjoy a night out with your family. It's not just another market, it’s a great family night out.
Mackay Showgrounds
Mackay International Film Festival Screening – ‘Three Thousand Years of Longing’
Saturday, 7:00pm
Mackay International Film Festival kicks off with a pre-festival screening of ‘Three Thousand Years of Longing’, a vibrant fantasy and romantic drama which celebrates the power of storytelling from visionary director George Miller of Mad Max fame. An optional package is available including film ticket, return coach transfer from Mackay and dinner at the Pinnacle Pub (drinks not included).
Pinnacle Playhouse
National Tree Day
Sunday, 8:00am to 12:00pm
National Tree Day will be held on Sunday, July 30, from 8am to noon at Sandfly Creek Environmental Reserve, Iluka Park. Mackay Regional Council is aiming to plant up to 5,000 plants at this year’s event. You can register as a volunteer at treeday.planetark.org/site/10028301. Please wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and bring a water bottle. If you have your own gloves and gardening equipment, please bring them along. A free barbecue will be provided to everyone who participates in this event.
Sandfly Creek Environmental Reserve, near Iluka Park
Jade Holland & JONTE Live at the Seabreeze Hotel
Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Head along to the Seabreeze Hotel on Sunday, July 30, for an unforgettable live and loud performance by the talented Jade Holland. After making waves in 2022 with one of the hottest country tracks of the year, “OH MY HEART,” Jade Holland is ready to get the dance floors moving in clubs worldwide.
Seabreeze Hotel
Bloom Sings The Stevie Linda Carole Songbook
Sunday, 3:00pm
Celebrate all the hits of Grammy Award winning artists and vocal powerhouses Stevie Nicks, Carole King and Linda Ronstadt in one massive show. She’s mesmerized audiences across the globe, and now you can witness Bloom’s “sensational” vocal prowess with this songbook that’s been highly applauded by audiences across the country.
Metropolitan Hotel
Opera Australia - The Barber of Seville
Monday, 7:30pm
The Barber of Seville fizzes and pops with lyrical acrobatics and irrepressibly funny characters. Rossini’s most famous ‘opera buffa’ is a musical masterpiece with a storyline that would be equally at home in a Hollywood rom-com. Opera Australia’s finest voices and a live orchestra deliver a score that is instantly familiar from renditions in movies, cartoons and commercials. Here, the frothy humour is intoxicating and the chorus revels in every uproarious escapade.
MECC
RSPCA Mackay Supporter Morning Tea
Wednesday, 10:30am to 12:00pm
To thank the Mackay region for their support, RSPCA Mackay is inviting you to their Supporter Morning Tea. These events are an opportunity for like-minded animal lovers to join together for a casual morning and learn more about what the RSPCA does in the local area. The local inspector will also be in attendance. This event is free and everyone is welcome, however RSVPs are essential. Please call 07 3426 9937 or email supporterday@rspcaqld.org.au.
Botanic Gardens Café
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
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
Artist's Talk - Anneke Silver discusses her works in the MRC Collection
Thursday, 5:30pm
Dr. Anneke Silver is a prominent North Queensland artist born in the Netherlands and based in Townsville. While visiting our region to judge Mackay Show Association’s renowned ‘Woolams Art on Show Awards’, Anneke will deliver a very special artist’s talk at Artspace Mackay, giving us a closer look and deeper insight into her varied works in the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection.
Artspace Mackay
The Woollam Art on Show Awards is celebrating 17 years of art excellence in 2023, with the prestigious exhibition and arts event right around the corner.
Taking public and community art to a higher level of professionalism, the Mackay Show Association continues to seek a very significant level of participation from artists locally, interstate, and nation-wide, providing a high standard of presentation, playing an integral part in Mackay’s cultural future as a high-profile arts event, and promoting the arts to patrons.
The four-day event kicks off on Friday, August 4 with the official opening evening and awards presentation commencing at 6:30pm, with tickets available at www.artonshow.com.au.
The exhibition will then be open from Saturday, August 5 to Monday, August 7 from 10:00am to 5:00pm daily.
Over 200 works, both local and interstate, will be exhibited and are for sale during the event, giving patrons the opportunity to show their support for art and culture in the community.
North Queensland visual artist Dr Anneke Silver will judge this year’s competition, bringing her decades of experience in art practice and teaching.
The Art on Show Awards have five sections of competition with a total prize purse of $12,000 including the major $3,000 prize the Woollam Art on Show Award,.
Patrons will also have the opportunity to judge the People’s Choice Award, to be published post event.
Visit www.artonshow.com.au for more information.
WHAT: Woollam Art on Show Awards 2023
WHEN: Friday, August 4 to Monday, August 7
WHERE: 500 Pavilion, Mackay Showgrounds
TICKETS: www.artonshow.com.au
Dr Anneke Silver
The Australian Church Women will celebrate our annual Fellowship Day Service on Friday 28th July at 10am at the Iona West Uniting Church Brook Street, Mackay. The theme is Renewal through Trust: Growing in God’s Ways.
The Australian Church Women is a network of Christian women dedicated to encouraging fellowship and service across denominational, national and international boundaries. We seek to promote peace, understanding and unity through faith and love in the one God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
The offerings presented at the Fellowship Day Service go towards the Winifred Kiek Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship honours Winifred Kiek, the first woman to be ordained in Australia. The scholarship is offered to Christian women of member countries of the Asian Church Women’s Conference, Australia and Pacific Island nations. The scholarship is used for supplementary training and further studies in theology or related fields. The 2023 scholar is Rev Priti Priyadarshan Sandhagalla from India who is studying for a Doctor of Ministry.
Please join us on Friday as we renew and celebrate in word and song our faith and grow in God’s way through love and trust in the one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Morning tea will follow the service giving us all the opportunity to catch up with old friends and make new ones.
Anne Jennings
Secretary/Treasurer
Mackay Unit Australian Church Women
For the third consecutive year, the Dinner on the Runway by Ibis Mackay in support of Mackay Hospital Foundation will take place at Mackay Airport on Friday 8th September.
The event is unique in that it takes place on the tarmac adjacent to the ‘old terminal’ on Casey Avenue. Guests will dine under the stars while scheduled jets take-off and land only metres away.
Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate said, “I’ve only had the pleasure of attending one of these events in the past but it’s a truly amazing and unique event to be a part of.
“I believe everyone should attend this event at least once in their lifetime; however, we’re extremely lucky to have sponsors and guests return each year for which we are extremely grateful.”
The event is hosted by Ibis Mackay with Mackay Hospital Foundation being the recipient of fundraising on the night. The Dinner on the Runway raised an incredible $89,000 for local hospitals last year and it’s on track to be another successful event in 2023.
Ibis Mackay General Manager, Adriette Meyer commented, “The Dinner on the Runway is growing in attendance numbers each year and this year is no exception. Ticket allocation has increased to 500 this year but prior to tickets being released for public sale, around 300 tickets had already been sold to sponsors and corporate donors.
“Our Chef, Tery Wekumbura, has catered for this event for the past two years and has planned another delicious 3-course meal again for our guests.”
During the evening, guests will have several opportunities to win cash when purchasing Lucky Numbers. There will also be Live and Silent auctions with opportunities to bid on Sleepmaker ensembles donated by Harvey Norman Bedding or perhaps you’ll be riding home on a mobility scooter which has been donated by Mackay Outdoor Power Centre.
Mango Junction will entertain, and guests can end the night with dancing and of course, some excellent prizes.
Tickets will be available for public sale from 8am on 29th July through the Mackay Tickets link. https://tickets.mackaytickets.com.au/outlet/event/36261fc7-013e456b-aec9-5568bb286baa.
Cost is $180 per person and includes a 3-course meal, as well as beer, wine and basic spirits.
What: Dinner on the Runway by Ibis Mackay
Where: Mackay Airport, Casey Avenue Mackay
When: Friday, 8th September 2023
Beneficiary: Mackay Hospital Foundation
Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes Photographer
Queensland-based filmmaker Ivan Sen is one of Australia’s leading First Nations directors, as well as a screenwriter, cinematographer, editor, composer, and sound designer, and to celebrate the release of his newest film, he will be visiting the region in a first for the Mackay International Film Festival.
‘Limbo’ is a poignant, profound meditation into the complexities of loss and the impact of the justice system on Aboriginal families in Australia.
Simon Baker gives a career-best performance as Travis, a jaded detective, who arrives in the remote outback town of Limbo to investigate the cold case murder of local Indigenous girl Charlotte Hayes 20 years ago.
Shot on location in Coober Pedy, South Australia, Limbo is a riveting outback noir described by The Guardian as “a tough, muscular film with the grit of crime, but a heartbeat of compassion.”
‘Limbo’ will be screened at the Mackay International Film Festival on Saturday, August 5 from 6:30pm, with Mackay audiences given the unique opportunity to take part in an in-person discussion with writer, director and producer Sen following the screening.
The festival starts with the popular pre-festival screening of ‘3000 Years of Longing’ (directed by George Miller of Mad Max fame) tomorrow night, Saturday, July 29, at the Pinnacle Playhouse with an optional bus and meal package available.
‘Limbo’ is then one of five screenings throughout the next weekend, commencing with the Opening Night Event on Friday, August 4 and a screening of ‘The Innocent’, with French-themed canapes and drinks after the film included in the $30 ticket.
The French comedy follows widower Abel who learns that his impulsive mother is once again re-marrying – this time to an inmate she met whilst teaching theatre in prison.
The festival continues Saturday with a screening of Moroccan drama ‘The Blue Caftan’ from 4:00pm, telling the tale of Mina and her husband Halim who run a small business making and selling bespoke caftans when the talented and handsome Youssef is hired as an apprentice and forces them to reconsider the future of their relationship.
Sunday’s screenings include the Darren Aronofsky drama that earnt Brendan Fraser his first Academy Award, ‘The Whale’, with Spanish-Italian drama ‘Alcarras’, inspired by director Carla Simón's own family story, concluding the festival.
For tickets and more information, visit filmartsmackay.weebly.com/2023-miff.html.
BCC Cinemas Mount Pleasant
Friday, August 4
7pm – The Innocent
Saturday, August 5
4pm – The Blue Caftan
6.30pm – Limbo, Followed by Director Q&A
Sunday, August 6
4pm – The Whale
6.30pm – Alcarràs
Filmmaker Ivan Sen will take part in a Q&A at Mackay International Film Festival
In an exciting event, Emma Memma, formerly known as "Emma Wiggle," made a delightful appearance at Mackay's Dudley Denny City Library during Toddler Time. The visit was part of her promotional tour ahead of the upcoming Twirly Tour scheduled for August 7 here in Mackay.
Emma Watkins, with her new persona, Emma Memma, brought a burst of vibrant energy and a fresh signature colour, captivating the children of Mackay as she read, sang, danced, and signed with them. The library event was a heartwarming opportunity for young ones to experience the magic of storytelling and interactive performances with the beloved children's entertainer.
Emma Memma's transition from "Emma Wiggle" has been marked by her passion for sign language, dance, and film editing. She now focuses on empowering the next generation through movement, creativity, inclusiveness, and friendship. The Twirly Tour promises to be an adventure filled with visual communication, choreographed dance narratives, singing, crafting, and more.
Photos supplied: Mackay Regional Council Libraries
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It’s been over two decades since one local began what was originally the Whitsunday Reef Festival, starting an event that would bring together the coastal community of the Whitsundays in celebration of their lifestyle.
Now, 22 years on and with a new name, that vision has become one of the region’s biggest events, with the Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival carrying on the original legacy of “what it means to live in the Whitsundays.”
But at the time, its founder didn’t know whether it would even survive its first year.
Whitsundays, 2001: The region was on an astronomical, tourism rise, growing a name for itself as a Great Barrier Reef destination, but David Hutchen didn’t feel it was properly recognised as such.
The region needed an event.
“A reef festival just seemed obvious to me,” David said.
“And it was also obvious we had to do something to get the whole community involved.”
David funded the inaugural event himself, utilising the 200 staff at his Great Barrier Reef operation, Fantasea Cruises – the first Reef Festival was afloat, and it certainly pulled a crowd.
“Lots of people came from Mackay and Proserpine and Bowen, so it was pretty easy to see we could expand it,” he said.
From there, it was nothing but smooth sailing – the local business community picked up the sponsorships, and the rest is reef history.
David spent many happy festival years running his baby, but time brings all things to an end, and he eventually sold Fantasea Cruises and left the Whitsundays in 2006 - but the idea he started has become the region’s mainstay event.
It turns the main street into the reef itself, it brings together hard-working volunteers – it encapsulates the Whitsunday Spirit.
Now the Great Barrier Reef Festival has come full circle with one of the region’s iconic tourism operators, Cruise Whitsundays, onboard as naming sponsors.
As well, carrying the torch of David’s legacy is event chairwoman Margie Murphy and her team of passionate volunteers, who are proud to have taken on the reigns.
“We can’t wait to show you what’s in store for this year’s Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival,” she said.
The Great Barrier Reef Festival just got even bigger, with massive Australian headliner Reece Mastin confirmed for the opening night of the festival.
In 2011, Australia was introduced to 16-year-old Reece when he auditioned for the music competition television show, The X Factor.
With his confidence and charisma, it was clear to everyone that Reece was a natural born performer.
However, being an international musician was not what he had in mind for his career.
“When I was in school in England, I wanted to be a footballer, but I was never very good,” Reece said.
It seems his granddad, however, knew of his hidden talent and gifted him a guitar shortly before he and his family made the move to Australia.
“But I never played it because I was always playing football,” Reece explained.
It was in the cards for Reece though, a perfect hobby for him when he moved to Australia.
“When I moved here, my accent was so hard to understand that I kinda just sat by myself at school, and I picked up the guitar and wrote a couple of songs,” he explained.
“And then I met a kid who was really into it as well. By the time we were in high school, we were in three or four bands. None of them were very good, but then I went and auditioned for the show.”
Since then, Reece’s career has exploded taking him across the nation and onto massive international success.
Cementing himself on the Australia rock circuit, Reece has two platinum number one albums, and three consecutive chart-topping singles, and is currently working on his newest album, which is tightly under wraps, but is set to be a massive release.
Now, off the back of his 10 Year Anniversary Tour, that saw Reece and his crew travel on an 18-month trek across the country, Reece will be back in Airlie Beach for the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
Having only checked through Airlie Beach once before, he is keen to stop and explore the area.
Acting as the headliner on the opening night of the festival, this young gun on the scene is set to bring the high-octane energy that will cruise through the rest of the weekend.
“We want to be known in the music scene, in the rock and pop scene, that our shows are as fun as possible,” said Reece.
“There’s not a lot of time to breathe, it’s just an absolute onslaught of good vibes, good songs, and good energy.”
“It’s definitely going to be loud, with tonnes of singalongs and a lot of high energy!”
Reece Mastin will perform on the Great Barrier Reef Main Stage on Friday August 4, at 8.15pm, followed by duo Salt and Steel at 9pm.
WHAT: Reece Mastin
WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore
WHEN: Friday August 4, 8.15pm
Get ready for one of the best food experiences at the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
Completely unique and always different, try your hand at the exclusive Bait to Plate experience, hosted and curated by Kev Collins, of Fish D’Vine.
The six-course carefully selected and interactive seafood lunch is a delicacy for all those who attend.
Kev acts as head chef for the meal, live cooking one dish for attendees while his team of chefs are in the kitchen cooking the remaining 59 dishes.
This demonstration also includes some knowledge of the catch and some history, as well as helpful hints on serving and cooking.
On offer is some of the best locally sourced and caught seafood, fresh from the fisherman just days before the event.
“The menu is completely influenced by the ocean and what’s fresh and available,” explains Kev.
This dependency on the ocean’s conditions means that the menu will never be repeated, adding to the allure of the event.
Kev begun the Bait to Plate experience almost 15 years ago and has yet to repeat a dish.
“In the years I’ve been doing this lunch, I have never done a dish twice,” he said.
Joining the experience will be the famous Rum Bar Mojito, which will be served for attendees when they arrive, and a carefully selected wine for one of the courses.
With less than a week before the event, be sure to purchase tickets, even if the menu is a mystery.
“Even now, I have no idea what the menu will be!” Kev said.
WHAT: Fish D’Vine Bait to Plate
WHERE: Fish D’Vine Restaurant and Bar
WHEN: Sunday 6 August, 12pm to 2.30pm
TICKETS: greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au
For the past three years the Immerse Art Installation has formed a creative centrepiece to the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
Its glowing sea creatures, stunning animations and sparkling reef sculptures bring a magical underwater wonderland to life at Fairy Tree Park.
With each year that passes, the installation grows in both scale and diversity – colourful marine life is added to the scene, the animations extend to neighbouring walls and this year, for the first time, an instrumental composition completes a full sensory experience.
Immerse is the brainchild of festival Chair and Creative Director, Margie Murphy, who is elated to see the project evolve from the seed of an idea to one of the highlights of the whole event.
“I always envisioned a reef themed installation at the centre of the festival,” explains Margie.
“I love the way it creates a visual focus and links everything back to the reef.”
Margie went to art school in her youth and spent many years working with screen printing and running a construction business alongside her husband while organising regional Whitsunday events.
Over the last three years she has enjoyed rekindling her passion for art and working with other respected artists.
Regionally acclaimed artists Margaret Burgess and Donna Marie Robinson create Immerse alongside local artists, Margie Murphy, Liz Knight, Anita Pender, Bridgette Peel and new creatives Noemi Martinez and Joan Hunter.
In the first year of its inception, Immerse cultivated its roots near the one hundred year old Fig Tree at Fairy Tree Park on the Airlie Beach Foreshore.
This location has remained the focal point as the art installation has grown around it, like branches and leaves, creating a majestic coral garden.
Year one saw the introduction of sea creatures which were crafted from recycled marine debris to recreate and repurpose litter, maximising the potential use of waste products.
The second year of Immerse saw the expansion of the animations and projections, their incredible night-time visuals opening up a vibrant wonderland for all to admire.
Each year Immerse builds upon the last, incorporating different mediums and different locations.
Nearby Heart Hotel became a feature wall for the projections in 2022 and this was so successful that it will be replicated this year.
The 2023 event will welcome two large Humpback Whales to the installation, their intricate designs creating a jaw-dropping centrepiece.
The whale theme will be continued with two enormous whale tail lanterns travelling to Fairy Tree Park on Friday evening leading the Lantern Parade from Coral Sea Marina to the Foreshore.
Hundreds of children will also carry their hand-crafted glowing lights, marching them along the scenic coastal trail to the pleasure of onlookers.
The whale tails and some of the other lanterns will join the installation, placed within Immerse to form the finishing touches of the artwork.
On Saturday evening, the full sensory experience will be completed when classically trained musicians perform a unique orchestral piece written especially for the event.
The piece will include authentic whale sounds and create a captivating experience for everyone.
In honour of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, naming sponsor Cruise Whitsundays, are transforming their iconic day trip to the Reefworld Pontoon into an immersive Master Reef Guide experience.
For one day only, more than 10 Master Reef Guides will be on-board hosts, educating festival-goers on the marine environment in a tour that is both educational and informative.
Organiser Crystal Lacey graduated with the first ever cohort of Master Reef Guides in 2018 and she has since launched her own tourism consultancy business called Little Fish.
On the day, Crystal will host the event and she is looking forward to sharing her knowledge with the guests.
“We strive to be the story tellers of the reef by creating this immersive experience,” said Crystal.
“We give a deeper understanding of the reef by talking about the hard topics in an educational way and by making it fun to learn we offer a special experience out on the water.”
The day will begin with a Welcome to Country, hosted by local Indigenous owners who will join the tour and impart their knowledge and wisdom alongside the Master Reef Guides.
The Cruise Whitsundays vessel will head 39 nautical miles out to the Reefworld Pontoon where guests can experience a range of activities.
There will be an animal adaptation tour, a hide and seek critter hunt, an underwater photography masterclass and a coral reef scavenger hunt.
Guests can also enjoy the optional extra of a scuba dive and also take a tour on the semi-submersible, exploring the underwater coral gardens.
Onboard passengers can play the fish identification game or use a microscope to zoom in on coral polyps and discover so much more with a closer insight.
The Master Reef Guides will also give a coral predator talk about the Crown of Thorns Starfish and the Drupella Snail.
Traditional Owners will host a boomerang painting workshop and show guests traditional weaving.
On the return journey the traditional owners will host an interactive presentation on some precious artefacts.
The whole day will be serenaded by live acoustic music, with the performers providing a lively accompaniment to the day’s festivities.
“We are really excited to bring the people to the reef,” said Crystal.
“And we are really looking forward to connecting guests with traditional owners so that the community can engage in this event.”
Festival Chair, Margie Murphy, said she is thrilled to see this special educational day return to the festival event calendar again this year.
“The Festival was originally started as a community festival to celebrate the reef that is right on our doorstep, an underwater world of colour and wonder bought to the surface for the day,” she said.
“As the world and our Festival have evolved, reef education has become an important part of the celebrations.
“What this Festival is today is a beautiful balance of fun and education to suit adults through to kids, igniting a passion for the reef amongst festival-goers.”
WHAT: Cruise Whitsundays Master Reef Guide Experience
WHERE: Reefworld, 39 nautical miles out to sea
WHEN: Saturday, August 5
TICKETS: cruisewhitsundays.com
With preparations for the Great Barrier Reef Festival in full swing, the free community lantern making workshops have proved popular again this year.
Led by dynamic sculpture artist, Lalune Croker, the workshops are lively and interactive, and represent an opportunity for aspiring local artists to get creative and spend time together.
“I love the whole bringing the community together kind of thing, it’s like medicine!” said Lalune.
“All over the world different cultures celebrate the lighting of the lantern, it symbolises new life and everyone joins together, it is so rewarding, there is just something so beautiful about it.”
Lalune is a full-time sculpture artist who specialises in lantern making.
For the past three years she has been the driving force behind the Great Barrier Reef Festival’s Lantern Making Workshops.
She also works with Mackay’s Illuminate Festival and is highly experienced at working with this medium.
Over the past few weeks, 50 lanterns have been created at the two workshops.
The most recent event, held at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre on Saturday, saw dozens of parents attend with their children.
Each lantern takes about 30 minutes to craft, depending on the skill level, age, and speed of the creator, and they are made using largely organic materials.
“It’s all so achievable, anyone can come to one of these workshops and get a feel for it, and make something,” explained Lalune.
“People love working with bamboo and cane and all those organic things.”
Each lantern is made with simple products – cane and bamboo form the frame to the structure and greaseproof paper creates the shell.
They are then stuck together with artist’s masking tape and decorated with colourful crepe paper.
Some of the lanterns will form a display at Coral Sea Marina in time for the Immersive Reef Stories Event on Thursday, August 3.
In addition to the coral inspired lanterns, Lalune has created two enormous whale tale lanterns, the first is over six foot tall and the second is around 5 feet.
These two lanterns will form the centrepiece to the lantern parade.
Over one hundred additional ocean inspired lanterns have also been created at a series of community events over the past few months.
These pop-up stalls have once again proved popular, and children have taken their lantern creations home in preparation for the parade.
All the lanterns will join together on Friday evening, August 4, from 5.30pm and the Lantern Parade is due to kick-off at around 6pm.
The procession will begin at Garden Bar at dusk and families are invited to come and join the fun, walking along the Boardwalk to the Airlie Beach Foreshore.
Twinkling lights will adorn the coastline as the illuminated procession weaves its way towards the festival crowds as onlookers marvel at the display.
Upon reaching the Foreshore, many of the lanterns will be placed at the Immerse Arts Installation, completing the overall artwork.
The Lantern Parade and workshops are funded with thanks to Coral Sea Marina and Regional Arts Fund.
WHAT: Lantern Parade
WHERE: Meet at Garden Bar
WHEN: Friday, August 4 at 5.30pm.
Organiser Lalune Croker (centre), with artists Noemi Martinez (left) and Brigitte Peel (right), plus Brigitte’s two sons, Jajden and Brodie. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
Parents enjoyed creating lanterns with their children. Photo credit: Rachael Smith
A long-term lover of the reef, this passionate scuba diver turned business coach unites her love of community events and the environment with every hour she volunteers to the Great Barrier Reef Festival.
For the past seven years Heather has devoted her business savvy-ness to the festival and used her skills from owning and operating her own dive company, Yongala Dive, to source grants and drive sponsorship.
“It’s great to volunteer with something that includes the reef and brings people here to celebrate the reef,” said Heather.
“And especially with the Immerse Art Installation, it means that people who can’t get out on the reef can still see a magical underwater world.”
Originally from England, Heather has been a Whitsunday local for the past 23 years.
She discovered the Whitsunday Islands when she was travelling Australia and, after diving the Yongala wreck, located 25 metres below the surface near Ayr, she decided to set up a dive company.
Fast-forward to the present day and she is offering her skills as a business coach and consultant with her company HSB Business Solutions, using her spare time to help with the festival.
“I love organising and getting involved with putting the event together,” said Heather.
“When I came back to working in Airlie every day I wanted something that gets me involved with the community and this definitely does that!”
What is your favourite part of the festival:
I love how the event celebrates the Great Barrier Reef which is at our doorstep, and my favourite part of the festival would have to be the Friday night fireworks.
What does the festival mean to you?
The way it celebrates the Great Barrier Reef at our doorstep.
For the past 13 years Lisa has played a central role in bringing the Great Barrier Reef Festival to life by organising a sea of volunteers to help ensure its safe and smooth running.
From selling raffle tickets to completing visitor surveys and crowd controlling the larger events, there are over 30 dedicated volunteers offering their time to this much-loved community event.
Known for her enthusiastic and persuasive personality, Lisa uses her charm and charisma to encourage friends, family, and even strangers to volunteer.
Fortunately, most people agree and by the end of the event they are buzzing with excitement and ready to sign-up for the following year.
“We always need volunteers, especially with the pack-down at the end,” explains Lisa.
“It’s exhausting but great fun and we all have a laugh.
“I’ve formed a lot of close friendships over the last 13 years and learnt so many different things.”
A long-term local, Lisa moved to the region when she was just three years old.
She has worked across a range of industries over the years and especially loves customer-facing hospitality roles.
In her spare time, she plays guitar in a rock band with long-term bestie and Festival Chair, Margie Murphy.
What is your favourite part of the festival:
The Friday night fireworks – it symbolises the excitement of it all beginning!
What does the festival mean to you?
Community spirit.
The dynamic leader of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, Margie is a passionate and dedicated event organiser who brings with her a wealth of knowledge in the industry.
Joining the committee in 2009, Margie has been the driving force behind the festival’s direction, constantly moving it forward with her clear vision of how the arts meets the reef and the community.
When she became Festival Chair almost a decade ago, Margie was catapulted from volunteer to organiser, and she hasn’t looked back since.
Some of her highlights include bringing Timomatic to the festival for the opening of the Main Street, where thousands of people gathered to celebrate.
Another key moment for Margie has been finding the ‘festival home’, centralising the event on the Foreshore at Fairy Tree Park.
A large part of this was the introduction of Immerse Art Installation which was Margie’s vision for connecting the three pillars of the festival.
“I’ve always had a passion for the arts, music, culture and of course parties!’ she said.
“Creating Immerse has been a huge highlight over the years and it’s been fabulous to see it all come together so well.”
Of course, Margie is not just the vision for the festival, she is also a hardworking and dedicated member of the team.
From sourcing funding opportunities, chasing sponsorship and organising permits, she is at the pulse of all things Festival.
“I’ve always been able to communicate really well with a lot of different people,” said Margie.
What is your favourite part of the festival:
The opening night and the Fireworks at the Foreshore – it is the moment that everything is set-up and everyone is going ‘wow!’
What does the festival mean to you?
Giving all my energy into creating something that the community enjoys and can be proud of.
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