Entertainment

Beatlemania Comes To Proserpine For One-Night-Only Celebration

Beatlemania Comes To Proserpine For One-Night-Only Celebration

Get ready to “Twist & Shout” as Beatlemania On Tour brings its internationally acclaimed production to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Sunday 26th April 2026 at 7.30pm, for one night only. Since its launch in 2009, the Australian-based show has built a formidable global reputation, selling out performances across North America, Europe, South Africa, the Middle East, Asia and New Zealand. After a decade away from Australia’s east coast, the production is now returning with a high-energy tribute to the music that defined a generation. Audiences can expect a two-hour audio-visual spectacular featuring more than 40 of the greatest hits by The Beatles, performed live in their original keys with meticulous attention to detail. Replica costumes, period instruments and theatrical lighting combine to recreate the look and sound of the 1960s, capturing the spirit of the world’s most influential band. The setlist reads like a greatest-hits time capsule, including classics such as Hey Jude, All You Need Is Love, Yellow Submarine, Let It Be, Twist & Shout, Yesterday, Come Together, Get Back, Help!, Eleanor Rigby and Here Comes the Sun, among many others. Behind the production is a cast of seasoned musicians, including Zachary Coombs, who performs the role of John Lennon. Coombs’ connection to the music runs deeper than most. Named after Zak Starkey, son of Ringo Starr, he grew up in a musical household influenced by jazz, rock and 90s pop. He first picked up the guitar as a teenager before discovering The Beatles at 15 after receiving their 1 compilation album. “I fell in love with every single song,” Coombs recalled, describing the moment as a turning point that led him to explore the band’s entire catalogue. After years touring internationally as a solo cruise ship performer, Coombs joined Beatlemania in 2014, later stepping into the role of John Lennon. He has also performed as Paul McCartney and George Harrison in earlier productions, drawing on what he describes as “the magic within the music itself.” He says the key to portraying Lennon lies in understanding the balance of musicianship and attitude. “If the musicians are having fun on stage, it becomes infectious,” Coombes said. The show also features fellow performers portraying Ringo Starr and the rest of the iconic line-up, with attention to every musical and visual detail. For Coombs and the cast, the appeal of Beatles music lies in its universality, with songs built on themes of love, peace and connection that continue to resonate across generations. “This is more than a concert,” organisers say. “It’s a celebration of music history.” Tickets are available now. WHAT: Beatlemania On Tour WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre WHEN: Sunday 26th April, 7.30pm CAPTION: Since its launch in 2009, the Australian-based show has built a formidable global reputation, selling out performances across North America, Europe, South Africa, the Middle East, Asia and New Zealand. Photo supplied

Read the full story
Airlie Beach to Sing Along as John Farnham Tribute Show Comes to Town

Airlie Beach to Sing Along as John Farnham Tribute Show Comes to Town

Airlie Beach is set to come alive with the unmistakable sound of one of Australia’s most beloved musical legacies, as acclaimed tribute artist Mike Vee brings his celebrated Whispering Jack Show to the Whitsundays for two special performances this April. For locals and visitors alike, this is a rare opportunity to experience the magic of John Farnham’s music in a relaxed, coastal setting. Mike Vee has spent nearly two decades perfecting his tribute to Farnham, earning national recognition for his powerful voice and authentic stage presence. Many will remember his standout appearance on Australia’s Got Talent, where he was praised as “the closest I’ve heard to John.” Backed by a dynamic seven-piece band, Vee delivers a high-energy performance that captures the spirit and emotion of Farnham’s iconic catalogue. The Airlie Beach shows promise more than just music — they’re a celebration of Australian culture and nostalgia. Audiences can expect all the classics, from Age of Reason and Pressure Down to A Touch of Paradise and the timeless anthem You’re the Voice. The 2025 production also introduces a refreshed playlist and new storytelling elements, offering deeper insight into Farnham’s remarkable career. Bringing an event of this calibre to Airlie Beach highlights the region’s growing reputation as a hub for live entertainment. It’s the kind of show that invites the whole community to come together — whether you’re a lifelong Farnham fan or simply looking for a great afternoon out. With its uplifting atmosphere and singalong favourites, this is more than a concert — it’s a shared experience. Pack a chair, bring some friends, and get ready to relive the soundtrack of a generation right here in Airlie Beach. WHAT: The Whispering Jack Show – A Tribute to the Music of John Farnham, 2 FREE SHOWS
WHEN: Saturday April 18 & Sunday April 19, 2:00pm – 5:30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel Captions Photo sourced

Read the full story
Talented Singer Joins Whitsunday Songwriter Festival Lineup

Talented Singer Joins Whitsunday Songwriter Festival Lineup

Lead singer-songwriter and one half of Australian pop duo Bachelor Girl, Tania Doko will join the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival from 3–7 June 2026, bringing her distinctive voice and songwriting expertise to Airlie Beach. Tania joins Christine Anu, Mark Sholtez, Francesca de Valence, and Karen Jacobsen as they come together to collaborate on new works, host a songwriting workshop for developing artists, and a live performance at Whitsunday Sailing Club. Known for her dynamic and versatile vocals, Tania was voted by the public into the top 300 of Triple M's Greatest Singers of All Time list. Best known as one half of Bachelor Girl alongside musician and arranger James Roche, Tania rose to international prominence with the hit single Buses and Trains. The track became one of Australia’s most recognisable pop songs, achieving Top 10 chart success in Australia and New Zealand, earning multiple ARIA nominations, and is listed as one of most played Australian compositions on Radio Down Under over the last 20 years. Bachelor Girl’s double platinum, ARIA Award-winning debut album produced a string of hits including Treat Me Good, Permission to Shine, and Buses and Trains, cementing Tania’s place as a defining voice in Australian pop music. “Tania’s career spans both major commercial success and creative collaboration with some of the biggest names in the industry, which makes her an incredible mentor for our Songwriting Summit participants”, said festival co-founder Francesca de Valence. This is incredibly exciting news for a festival that is shaping up to be spectacular. WHAT: Whitsunday Songwriters Festival WHERE: Airlie Beach WHEN: 3rd - 7th June Captions Photo supplied

Read the full story
Event Guide Friday 10th April

Event Guide Friday 10th April

Crochet and Conversation 9am Drop in for a relaxed morning of crocheting, coffee and conversation with a friendly group of Northern Beaches locals at the Beachfront Bar and Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re an experienced crafter, a beginner, or simply keen to enjoy a chat over coffee. Bring your own crochet tools or borrow from the communal yarn box. The gathering focuses on connection, creativity and sharing experiences, with participants sometimes working on community projects or their own creations. There’s no need to RSVP — just look for the table with the yarn and come along. Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia Esplanade. Community Jam At Family Flow 6pm Families are invited to head along to the Community Jam at Friday Flow for an afternoon of fun, music, and family friendly activities. Children can enjoy free activities including the Gymnastics Airtrack, giving them the chance to bounce, tumble and burn off some energy. Live music from Jamesley will set the atmosphere, creating a relaxed community vibe for the evening. Food and drinks will also be available, making it a great opportunity to catch up with friends, bring the family along, and enjoy a lively local gathering. Everyone is welcome to come along and join in the fun. Blue Water Quay, Mackay Saturday 11th April Monthly Breast Cancer Support Group 10am The Mackay Breast Cancer Support Group invites breast cancer patients and survivors at any stage to join their monthly support meeting. The session runs from 10:00am to 12:00pm in the Botanical Gardens Meeting Room, with roadside parking along Lagoon Street. The morning includes introductions, a confidential sharing and support session, and morning tea with coffee, tea, and water provided. Attendees are encouraged to bring a small share plate and, optionally, wear something pink. This is a free event. To join, RSVP by clicking “Going” and mark your diary. Botanical Gardens Meeting Room True Street Cars meet – Rural View 6pm Car enthusiasts are invited to the next True Street Cars meet at Rural View, gathering outside The Cheesecake Shop and the McDonald’s car park. Attendees are encouraged to bring their cars, catch up with fellow enthusiasts and enjoy the atmosphere. Organisers are reminding everyone to be respectful, as surrounding businesses will still be operating, including Woolworths which remains open until 6pm. Visitors are asked to be mindful of customers and staff while attending. The meet aims to bring the local car community together for another strong turnout and an enjoyable evening. Rural View, outside The Cheesecake Shop / McDonald’s car park Sunday 12th April Tropical Treats and Orchard Tour 11am The Rare Fruit Club invites anyone interested in discovering and tasting rare tropical fruits to join their April meeting from 11am to 3pm. The session will be held at a property in Mount Martin in the Pioneer Valley, featuring an orchard tour led by the host. Attendees can also take part in a raffle with garden-related prizes and bid on member-propagated plants at auction. For the address and directions, contact Kaye on 4947 5890 or Julie on 0429 002 018. Mount Martin, Pioneer Valley – contact for further details Monday 13th April Free School Holiday Lifesavers Program 11am The NextGen Lifesavers Program returns to SuperKids Aquatic Indoor Swim School, running over three consecutive days from Monday, 13 April, 11am to 1pm. This program teaches young people aged 8–15 water safety, lifesaving skills, and confidence in the pool. Participants must be able to swim 10 metres unassisted and be comfortable in water 1.2 metres deep. Open to the public, not just swim school members, the sessions are delivered by the SuperKids Aquatic Mackay team in collaboration with Royal Lifesaving Queensland. To secure a spot, call 0490 834 345. 109 Paradise Street, Mackay Tuesday 14th April Walk n Talk Book Club in the Gardens 8am The Botanic Gardens Book Club invites book lovers to combine reading, gentle walks, and social connection in the beautiful gardens. Members meet fortnightly to discuss a new title, enjoy light exercise, and stay for coffee and conversation. Each month, participants pick up a book at the start, share thoughts mid-month during a walk, and review the title at the end while discovering the next read. Meetings are held in the Botanic Gardens Meeting Room (opposite the café) on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month, February to November. Participants should bring sensible walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a water bottle. To join or find out more, contact the Libraries on 4961 9387 to book a spot. Botanic Gardens Meeting Room (opposite the cafe) Thursday 16th April Coastal Kids – Dunes Harbour Beach School Holiday Event 9am Coastal Kids is back at Dunes Harbour Beach for a free, family-friendly school holiday event. On Thursday, 16 April, from 9 AM to 12 PM, families can enjoy outdoor games, kids’ face painting, giveaways, and the ever-popular Aussie sausage sizzle. HitFM’s Jake will be broadcasting live from the event, capturing all the excitement. Parents can grab a free coffee while the kids play. The event is held at Dunes Harbour Beach on Sol Drive, next to the Community Square. Join the fun, make new memories, and connect with your community at this fantastic free local event, proudly presented by Urbex. Dunes Harbour Beach

Read the full story
Woolworths Happy Easter

Between The Tides At Cape Hillsborough

August 24, 2023

The sun set over Cape Hillsborough as Busby Marou took to the beachfront stage in front of a sold-out crowd two nights in a row.

Taking place between two tidal movements, Queensland Music Trails brought the central Queensland icons to Cape Hillsborough where attendees were the first to hear their new record, Blood Red, live in its entirety, with other fan favourites following.

Read More

Property Point

August 24, 2023

In the fast-moving, cyber-driven, social media-controlled world of influencers, hackers and gurus of all types, there are plenty of experts to tell you what to do, what not to do, why you’re a failure and how you can be better.

Whether it’s to do with your career, your looks, your relationships or your health, there is an expert for every scenario and advice for every occasion.

A lot of the advice is conflicting: eat meat/don’t eat meat, set the alarm for 4am and get cracking/allow your body the sleep it needs and avoid alarms …it’s a world where anyone with a phone camera and a social media account can suddenly be an expert in whatever they choose.

So take what you see and hear with a grain of salt.

However, full disclosure, I can’t help absorbing some of the noise. I watch and listen to podcasts and videos in the worlds of politics (check out Robert F Kennedy Jr), motivation (Dave Goggins tells it how it is pretty brutally) and health and fitness.

The health and fitness arena is packed with “experts” fighting for attention, producing short grabs that promise to deliver “the five most important things to prevent cancer” or “the 10 foods to avoid if you want to lose weight”.

I’m not here to promote or validate anyone but, in my view, some have more cred than others.

I quite like a bloke called Gary Brecka, described as a human biologist and functional medicine expert. Apparently he’s also a “bio-hacker” but I’ve got no idea what that is and he nearly lost me when I heard that.

Anyway, I stuck with him and one of the things he says is that “ageing is the aggressive pursuit of comfort”. He says that as we get older we should not be putting our feet up, taking it easy while we sit in front of the TV indulging in some tasty treats like pastries or cake washed down with a can of coke.

Rather, he says, we should be experiencing some discomfort … exercising, denying ourselves the pleasure of a belly full of food from the moment we wake up until the moment we go to bed, having cold baths and showers (that’s the tough one).

His point is that we should not sit back and relax and “aggressively pursue comfort” if we want to stay healthy and be at our best as the years pass.

I feel that what he says can equally be applied to business and definitely the business of selling real estate.

Once you sit back and relax in business and in real estate sales, your days are numbered. You start going backwards. You start to look old-fashioned and behind the times.

The pursuit of comfort means you are not pushing the boundaries and actively looking for the best way to present a property, not working the phones to re-connect with buyers you have come across who might be interested, not taking the time to brief the photographer about the key shots to present the property, not finding something different to set the property apart from the crowd.

If you are relaxed and comfortable you are complacent and you’re not finding innovative ways to be better and that’s not good for sellers.

Read More

What’s The Right Age To Allow Your Kids Access To Social Media?

August 24, 2023

We were talking about this a while back on the radio after learning that Matthew McConaughey and his wife allowed their son to join Instagram for his 15th birthday. I respect that.

Having kids now in double digit age and soon to be negotiating teenage years, the pressure will be coming my way, although it probably already is.  

The line that we’ve heard and I’m sure a lot of other parents have heard is “My fiend (insert name here) already has (insert app/technology here)”. And you can fill those gaps with iPhone, iPad, YouTube account, Facebook, Insta… the list goes on.

Already my kids are talking with friends through games and technology like Zoom calls while playing games. What I like about that is I can hear what’s being said by the other kids, and more importantly by my own. For now, the danger of a stranger becoming involved is minimal. The messaging by typing worries me more, and we’ve had lots of conversations about that, how 12-year-old Johnny could actually be 53-year-old Peter who should be in jail.

You don’t want your kids being last to the party, but at the same time, you want to be making sure they’re smart enough to work through what’s going on once messages start coming in.

Really, it’s other people that I’m more concerned about. If my kids say or do something then I can do something about that, a stern talking to, grounding, changing the wifi password… but other people’s kids, that’s a different story.

I’m still not sure when I’ll be allowing these apps into my kids’ lives, but when it happens, I’ll be monitoring what’s said and sent to them, and what they’re saying.  

Scotty

Read More

Pop Culture Fans Assemble

August 24, 2023

Prepare your costumes, Mackay, for Mack PopCon is back in 2023.

This year’s event is shaping up to be another great convention full of pop culture, cosplay, celebrity guests and entertainment.

President Matthew Perna said there’ll be something for everyone, with cosplay workshops and competitions, games, virtual reality, exhibitors and market stalls, a photo booth and panel discussions.

“There’s a lot more to pop culture than just dressing up,” he said.

Special guests include Comic book artist Jesse Dracman of Freek Productions, cosplay guests NIX_COSPLAY and Slightly Villainous, and actors Clayton Watson from The Matrix and Lincoln Lewis from Home and Away.

Celebrity cars have also become a staple of Mack PopCon, with KITT from Knight Rider and Tow Mater from Cars on display waiting to take a photo with you.

The family-friendly event comes at a family-friendly cost, with tickets available online or at the door for $5 and children 9 and under free.

“We rely on a lot of community support to fund getting the guests and that sort of stuff,” said Mr Perna.

“The support this year has been really good, from Council and local businesses,” added Funding Coordinator Kristy Harper.

The convention is marked on the calendars of pop culture fans throughout the region as one of few platforms to network, but the Mack PopCon team hopes to grow these opportunities in the future.

“The pop culture community in Mackay is definitely there, but it’s very quiet,” said Mr Perna.

“This gives them the opportunity to get along to an event, meet others and hopefully make some friendships.”

Doors will open at 9:00am for people with sensory needs and disabilities, with general admission open from 10:00am.

“We want the whole community to be able to enjoy it,” Mr Perna said.

Visit www.mackpopcon.org.au to find more information about the cosplay competition, volunteering, tickets and guests.

WHAT: Mack PopCon 2023

WHEN: Saturday, July 22 from 9:00am to 4:00pm

WHERE: Mackay Showgrounds

TICKETS: www.mackpopcon.org.au

Mack PopCon organisers held a cosplay promotion at Caneland Central recently. Photo credit: Marty Strecker Photography

Read More

Orchids On Show

August 24, 2023

Whether you’re an amateur cultivator or an orchid expert, the Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc invites you to the annual Winter Orchid Show.

Orchids will be available for sale as well as pots, potting mediums, tags and more accessories.

Members of the Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc will present orchid culture demonstrations and be available to answer any questions and offer any advice.

Raffles will be on offer as well as Devonshire morning and afternoon teas.

It’s all happening at the Sporting Wheelies Hall on Bridge Road today, Friday, July 14 and Saturday, July 15 from 8:00am both days.

For more information, email mdos.secretary@gmail.com, contact President Dennis Farlow on 0458 043 132 or visit Mackay and District Orchids Inc on Facebook.

WHAT: Winter Orchid Show

WHEN: Friday July 14 from 8:00am to 4:00pm and Saturday July 15 from 8:00am to 3:00pm

WHERE: Sporting Wheelies Hall, 78 Bridge Road, Mackay

TICKETS: $2 coin donation

Photo supplied: Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc

Read More

50 Years Of Friendships Mackay Senior Citizens Celebrate Anniversary

August 24, 2023

Mackay Senior Citizens recently celebrated their 50th anniversary with a luncheon at Souths Leagues Club.

Members and guests gathered to enjoy the celebrations in a lovely afternoon enjoyed by all.

Vi McFadzen, who is the oldest Life Member Mackay Senior Citizens, had the honours of cutting the anniversary cake alongside President Charlie Symons.

Entertainment was supplied by Sylvia Heideman, Alan Mackenzie, and Dennis and Faye Macrae.

Celebrations also extended to the recent 50th Anniversary Ball, held at the Senior Citizens Hall.


Life Member Vi McFadzen and President Charlie Symons cut the anniversary cake

Herman Mayer, Jan Strachan, Ted and Lyn Coburn, Lynn and John Bianchi, Pam Louis, and Wayne and Shirley Davidson enjoying themselves at the recent 50th Anniversary Ball held at the Senior Citizens Hall. Photos supplied: Lyn Coburn

Read More

Ukulele Fever

August 24, 2023

The Farview Tavern came alive with music and dance recently, as the Beaconsfield Ukulele Strummers hosted an afternoon extravaganza on Saturday, June 24.

150 folks enjoyed a great afternoon of singing, dancing and entertainment and excellent hospitality and meals from the Tavern.

Under the guidance of leaders Bruce and Betty Kearney, 30 members of the Strummers played and sang for almost three hours, with the ever-changing performers on the dance floor enjoying the tunes.

The dancers were a mix of ukulele players, Golden Years and others from the audience.

There was waltzing, jiving, rock and roll, hula dancing and the Running Bear conga line, including wheelie walkers.

A great band playing great music, a fantastic day and smiles all round.

The Beaconsfield Ukulele Strummers enjoyed an afternoon of singing, dancing, conga lines and good company. Photos supplied: Bruce Kearney

Read More

Homecoming Concerts: Celebrating Mackay's Own Violin Virtuoso

August 24, 2023

Mackay is eagerly anticipating the return of one of its own musical prodigies.

Glenn Christensen, a talented violinist and native of Mackay, has garnered international acclaim for his virtuosic performances. With his upcoming series of highly anticipated concerts in his hometown, Glenn is set to captivate audiences once again with his mesmerising talent and unwavering passion for music.

Glenn became Concertmaster of the Australian Youth Orchestra in 2012 and 2013 and an Australian Chamber Orchestra Emerging Artist in 2012. From 2012 to 2014, Principal First Violin in the Queensland Symphony Orchestra. He performed, broadcasting live on ABC Classic FM, was a finalist in the 2014 ABC Young Performer Awards. He moved to Sydney in 2014 becoming a full-time member of the Australian Chamber Orchestra under the demanding and watchful eye of Richard Tognetti. Six years later, in 2020, resigning to take up offers in Germany.

Next, everything stopped.

Globally contracts were cancelled, performances cancelled, theatres closed, entire orchestras unseated. Musicians, a close-knit community, left with nothing but to pack their instruments, and go home.

“In one fell swoop Covid decimated the livelihood of all artists,” said Glenn. “Our world ended. And it was rapid.”

“Fear is what I felt most strongly. Not for my health, but for my very existence having just left a full-time position.

“Luckily I had a contract waiting for me in Germany. But borders closed, international travel was restricted. As a non-essential service all movement was forbidden.

“I couldn’t get out of Sydney, even if I had a flight I wouldn’t gain entry.

“Much of the pandemic was spent shuffling emails between Germany keeping me hopeful the contract remained open. In isolation, I was fearful.”

The position with Die Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie of Deputy Concertmaster and Principal 2nd Violin remained open. Glenn is now resident in Bremen.

“Living in the heart and soul of European classical music is the quickest way to restore anyone’s optimism,” says Glenn.

“The orchestra’s management style is democratic, no hierarchy. Decisions are made laterally. If you work for the company you have input, everyone is valued. It’s a breath of fresh air.”

Glenn still has time for a grand passion. The Mackay Chamber Music Festival, an annual festival he started in his hometown in 2018, of which he is Artistic Director.

“It’s thrilling,” said Glenn. “Mackay has its own classical music festival.”

“The best part is the feeling of community. I get to work with amazing musicians and music lovers on and off stage.

“It’s important to program works relevant to today’s audiences, so we have works by living Australian composers Anne Cawrse, Elizabeth Younan, Harry Sdraulig and Paul Stanhope, alongside classic works from Schubert, Mozart, and Mendelssohn.

“A rewarding initiative is giving young, and young at heart musicians, guidance through an extensive education program.

“Regardless of where you live, you should have access to wonderful music and music education.”

Dates for the fifth annual festival are 21-23 July 2023.

For further information on Mackay Chamber Music Festival visit: https://www.mackaycmf.com.au/

Lyrebird Trio – Glenn Christensen (violin), Angela Turner (piano) Simon Cobcroft (cello)

Read More

Wild Cats Are In The House!

August 24, 2023

Holy Spirit College is proud to present Disney’s High School Musical on 20, 21 and 22 July 2023 in the Father Bucas Centre, located at the College.

Students have been busy rehearsing and the excitement is building as performance dates approach and the cast and crew can’t wait to entertain the Mackay community.

Lily Warner, Cultural Events Coordinator, is directing the production and said, “We have very talented students that shine in what they do. Come and see the magic of High School Musical come to life!”

Adapted from the original movie from the Disney Channel chronicles, this is the story of two high schoolers who discover their love for singing and challenge their cliques in the process. Troy Bolton, the star athlete at a small-town high school, falls for nerdy beauty Gabriella Montez at a holiday karaoke party. When they return to school after break, they both audition for the upcoming musical. Meanwhile, the jealous Sharpay Evans, with the help of twin brother, Ryan, conspire to squelch their chances. Troy and Gabriella struggle to make it to their auditions while also meeting their existing obligations to the basketball team and the academic decathlon.

You are invited to a fantastic night of entertainment, suitable for all ages, as Holy Spirit College students perform High School Musical on stage.

Purchase your tickets today at www.trybooking.com/CIKWQ or scan the barcode on this page. Hurry, as tickets are limited!

Troy Bolton (Andrew Kirkwood) and Gabriella Montez (Laniece Pace), learn to navigate a new relationship at high school

Brother and sister, Ryan and Sharpay Evans, are played by real-life siblings, Liam and Alana Hyde. They are certainly a triple threat, and we see Ryan seeking to break free from under Sharpay’s shadow

High School Musical performances, at Holy Spirit College, on 20, 21 and 22 July 2023

Read More

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF POSSUM MAGIC

August 24, 2023

Mem Fox and Julie Vivas’ beloved picture book, Possum Magic has enchanted children for 40 magical years.

Possum Magic is the best-selling children's book in Australia. With sales of over three and a half million, the story has become a classic in children's literature.

To celebrate the iconic book's 40th birthday, Mackay’s young audiences can watch the classic story come to life with three performances at the Mackay Convention & Entertainment Centre on July 17 and 18.

The clever combination of live action, magic, soundscape, puppetry and animation transports audiences to the whimsical world of Little Hush and Grandma Poss.

After a sold-out national tour in 2019 captivating over 100,000 young people, Artistic Director at Monkey Baa, Eva Di Cesare is thrilled to bring Possum Magic back to regional areas, like Mackay.

“We hope the young people of Mackay and their families delight in this shared magical experience that Possum Magic provides” Di Cesare said.

The magical adaption returns to the stage just in time for Possum Magic’s 40th anniversary.

"To be able to share our beautiful production of Possum Magic, on the 40th anniversary of Mem Fox and Julie Vivas's gorgeous story, is a dream come true for us,” she continued.

An ever-popular performance, tickets to the Possum Magic performances are selling fast. The MECC strongly encourages parents to purchase tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

WHAT: DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season 2023

Possum Magic

A Monkey Baa Theatre Company Production

Based on the book by Mem Fox and Julie Vivas Adapted for the stage by Eva Di Cesare and Sandie Eldridge

When: Monday 17 July 2023 - 6pm Tuesday 18 July 2023 – 9.30am & 12.30pm

Where: MECC Auditorium

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

Possum Magic is celebrating its 40th birthday. Image Credit: Clare Hawley

Read More

A Talk With The Terrys

August 24, 2023

By Sam Gillespie

Emerging out of a global lockdown, Gerringong surf rockers The Terrys have been kicking goals over the last few years, including releasing their debut album ‘True Colour’ and appearing on triple j’s Like a Version. The boys are preparing for their next career milestone: performing in north Queensland for the first time at Sugardrop Festival, and guitarist Lukas Anderson had a chat with Sam about it all.

Tell me about how the pandemic birthed The Terrys?

Myself and our lead vocalist, Jacob, we both lost our jobs because of Covid. We lived together at the time, and we had to stay home a lot of the time and we just started covering some songs. I’d always played guitar and he was a rapper, so we started doing covers of songs that we liked and then got GarageBand up and tried to write our own music.

Was music something you all always wanted to do?

We’ve always loved music. I played guitar when I was a kid but I never thought it would be my occupation. It wasn’t on the cards, like starting our own band, but we were always really interested in it and just didn’t realise it was what we wanted to do but now it’s probably all I want to do.

How has your lifestyle changed?

It’s not like a Monday to Friday 9-5 situation anymore. We’ve done so much travelling around Australia already and we’re about to go overseas and do a couple of tours, we’re doing New Zealand and then we’re going to go to Europe hopefully. I always travelled when I was a bit younger, just funding my own trips to go surfing in different countries, but now it’s pretty sick that we’re going take our instruments and play shows to people who like our songs

It seems like you’ve achieved heaps in those three years and releasing an album is a massive milestone, what are your reflections on ‘True Colour’ nine months on?

Since recording and releasing that album, we’ve all matured a little bit musically and as people, so we’ve just been recording new music and it’s still The Terrys obviously but it’s very different. ‘True Colour’ was a good reflection of us learning how to make an album.

What do you think you have learnt? How do you think you’ve matured?

With the new stuff we’ve been recording, we’re in a different studio with a different producer and we know a little bit more about what to do, what not to do, stop overthinking that and put more effort into this. I think simplicity is the key.

What was it about the opportunity to play Sugardrop Festival that appealed to you?

Tia Gostelow’s a legend so we were pretty flattered and honoured to be offered to play it. I love going to Queensland, and I think the furthest I’ve been is the Sunny Coast. Keen as to come to Mackay and rip it up.

And what can we expect from your show at Sugardrop?

It’s going to be loud, it’s going to be fun. There might be a couple new tracks in there, there’s definitely going to be some old classics in there, and just heaps of smiles and maybe a couple of beers.

WHAT: Sugardrop Festival

WHEN: Saturday, September 16 from 2pm

WHERE: Harrup Park

TICKETS: Oztix

Read More

Great Barrier Reef Festival Line-Up Announced!

August 24, 2023

3-6 August

The Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival is gearing up for success with another action-packed line-up that includes live entertainment, immersive experiences, street parades, fireworks, fairground rides and fun.

Due to be held from 3 to 6 August, the festival is an exciting, family-friendly fiesta that has become a cornerstone of the local events calendar.

Friday Night

Commencing at 6pm with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, the Friday night festivities include a traditional dance and whale story performance by Yooribaya Cultural Experiences, as the enchanting Immerse art installation in Fairy Tree Park is illuminated for the first time.

Afterwards, the Main Stage entertainment will kick off at 6:30pm with an electrifying showcase of the region’s top youth bands and performers, with the evening hosted by HitFM's Jacob ensuring a lively atmosphere.

At 8pm, all eyes will be on the sky for spectacular fireworks display over the Coral Sea.

Back on the Main Stage, get ready for a captivating performance by rock ‘n’ roll young gun, Reece Mastin, followed by dynamic duo Salt and Steel.

Entertainment will be spread along the foreshore on Friday night, with night markets and the Whitsunday FoodService Eat Street providing a delightful culinary experience.

The kids can also enjoy a screening of "Finding Nemo" on the movie screen starting from 6:00pm, where pop-up performers will be ready to surprise and delight.

Saturday

Saturday promises a day of excitement and festivities with the Mackay and Whitsunday Life Saturday Street Fun event starting from 10:00 am with the Fraser Ford Car, Truck & Bike Show.

Main Street entertainment includes a showcase of Young Whitsundays Got Talent, the Miss Pinup Comp, mesmerising roaming performers, and exhilarating carnival rides for all ages.  

Music enthusiasts can head to the Airlie Beach Hotel at 2:00 pm to enjoy the sounds of Classic Rock legends. Magnums gets in the festival spirit with an afternoon of games for the big kids and joining in the Street Parade fun with some big hair and big heels will be Drag Queens Shushu Funtanna and Scarlett Fever.

After the parade, the day will melt into night with a special performance "Call from the Deep" at 6pm from within the Immerse installation, featuring solo classical musicians and whale song, guided by renowned contemporary composer Corrina Bonshek.

Beats on the Beach will be where the party’s at on Saturday night with a stellar line-up of live music headlined by popular 7-piece reggae band Sun Salute.

Also playing the main stage are blues funk Mackay 3-piece The Wild Sky, local alt-rockers Flying Double Front Kick, and multi-instrument songstress Mish N Possible.

The VIP bar area will be available on Saturday night, providing an exclusive experience for guests. Magnums will have Aussie rock double-header, The Chats & Cosmic Psychos in the nightclub.

Sunday

The entertainment extravaganza will continue on Sunday when the Fish D’Vine Bait to Plate lunch takes guests on an interactive culinary journey with Owner and Chef, Kevin Collins.

The afternoon winds down with Chill in the Park, acoustic vibes from 2:00pm to 6:00pm on the foreshore stage, the perfect end to a jam-packed weekend of excitement.

Reece Mastin will headline on Friday night. Photo supplied

Popular 7-piece reggae band Sun Salute will play Saturday night. Photo supplied

Everyone is invited to get involved in a range of immersive events. Photo supplied

Read More

‘Hotel California’ With Australian Eagles

August 24, 2023

Country music is cruising into the Airlie Beach Hotel next weekend, with the legendary Australian Eagles Show bringing the very best of classic American country and rock.

Performing with fantastic accuracy and authenticity, The Australia Eagles Show is not a show to miss, for fans of country and rock and The Eagles.

These ‘New Kids in Town’ are known for their unique blend of country and rock.

The Eagles are faithfully recreated with state-of-the-art sound and lighting, that only adds to the vocal harmonies and powerful instrumentals.

No ‘Wasted Time’ here, with the Airlie Beach Hotel keeping the dance floor clear, because ‘All She Wants to do is Dance’.

We’ve got founding member Shayne Browne, on vocals and guitar, who started the band in 2015 with Paul Kerin, who is Shayne’s “guitar player in arms” and fellow harmonic vocals.

Jason Chandler has been with the show for three years on bass guitar and has been close with Shayne for over 30 years.

“He’s done everything from Irish folk to pop rock,” Shayne explained.

Identical twins Michael and David Thompson rock on drums and guitar, plus vocals.

Known around the world, these brothers bring some of the hardest beats and notes to the band.

“I can only tell them apart because of their tattoos!” said Shayne.

Touring the world with international acclaim, these ‘Boys of Summer’ know exactly what to do and where to do it, embodying the appeal and stage presence of the beloved Eagles.

‘The Heat is On’ and the Airlie Beach Hotel is excited to be hosting.

“We perform all over the place, usually in big venues like civic centres,” explained Shayne.

“There’s only a handful of places that we go back to, and Airlie Beach is definitely one of them.”

With over two hours of absolutely free live music, you better get out there and spend time with that ‘Peaceful, Easy Feeling’.

The Australian Eagles Show is a classic for Eagles fans, for everyone of any age.

“There was the time when we played at the Hamilton Island Race Week, and we were getting ready, and we could hear the doof doof dance music that the young people dance to,” said Shayne.

“When we got on stage, here came the young people, who knew every word of the Eagles shows, many knew the songs better than some of the older people in the crowd!

“It’s a true testament to the reach of the Eagles, and that we’re not doing the wrong thing.”

No matter a casual fan or a diehard fanatic, The Australian Eagles Show will create some ‘Heartache Tonight’.

WHAT: The Australian Eagles Show

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 July, 2pm to 5.30pm

The Australian Eagles Show is bringing the very best of The Eagles to the Airlie Beach Hotel

Country-coloured glasses will fall over Airlie Beach when the Australian Eagles come to town

Not a show to miss, for the fantastic blend of country and rock, perfect for a weekend at The Pub

Showcasing the classic presence of The Eagles as a cultural moment for Australians of any age. Photos supplied

Read More

High Energy Horsepower Going To A Good Cause

August 24, 2023

Now is the time to check out the best of the best of motorsport and racing cars at the 2023 Whitsunday Horsepower Day this weekend, with all funds funnelled back into local mental health organisations.

Not afraid of thrills and spills, the crew behind the Monster Energy Race Car will be on the scene, along with high performance cars, corporate displays, and a fantastic display of might from the Queensland Police, Fire and Ambulance Services.

“This event is an exhibit of motorsport in all forms,” said committee member of Horsepower Heroes Victor Pozzoli.

“We have classic, modern, track cars and even crazy modified trucks, plus the helicopter doing adventure flights.”

Even V8 Supercar legend Cam Waters will be on the ground, sharing his love for the sport, as well as Nick Lange from the TA2 Racing Australia Muscle Car series.

With the crew of Blokesworld, beloved lifestyle TV show exploring all things bloke, filming all day, the event will be broadcast on TV across the nation.

Acting as a fundraiser for Horsepower Heroes Whitsunday, all funds raised will go towards community organisations, such as Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network and Kick On.

“We will have a mental health pit bay too, with all the mental health organisations in the area set up like a pit lane,” said Victor.

“We’re playing on the race theme and promoting the different organisations.”

WHAT: Whitsunday Horsepower Day

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club

WHEN: Saturday, July 15, 9.30am – 5pm

Expect to see the very best of motorsport and racing cars at the Whitsunday Horsepower Day this Saturday. Photo supplied

Read More

Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny

August 24, 2023

Our trusty hero Indiana Jones is back in the fifth and final instalment of the franchise.

Portrayed by Harrison Ford, this newest film is reminiscent of classic Indiana Jones films, bringing high intensity action, thrills, and adventure to the big screen.

The film begins back in the end stages of World War 2, with a younger Jones racing through a train, weaving between Nazi officers, to recover a priceless and valuable artefact, and keep it out of the hands of the dreaded Nazis.

This digitally de-aged Jones retains all the charisma and charm of the classic Jones, setting up the film for its high stakes and endearing love.

Of course, this new artefact happens to be one half of the Archimedes’ dial, an ancient device that is believed to be able to predict future disaster.

An artefact long forgotten, the film cuts to the 1960s, with Jones a grumpy professor whose students no longer appreciate his reputation or esteem.

That is until his goddaughter Helena strolls into his classroom, her enemies in tow, dragging Jones out of semi-retirement to find the second half of the Archimedes’ Dial.

One such enemy is an ex-Nazi, Jurgen Voller.

Since the end of World War 2 and initially meeting Jones as he escaped with the half of the dial, Voller has become an esteemed scientist in the United States space program, however he sets out to retrieve the two pieces of the dial and travel back in time.

He ultimately wants to change history, wherein Germany is not defeated by the Axis and the German dream was revealed.

This action-packed story does not stop, bringing high energy and fantastic CGI adventure and fun.

With touchingly intimate reunions of fan favourites and throw backs to classic hero-treasure hunter stories.

Harrison Ford returns for the fifth and final instalment of the Indiana Jones franchise

Read More

Your FREE Voice In Print

SARINA -  WALKERSTON – MIRANI – MARIAN – PAGET – OORALEA – MACKAY CITY – MACKAY NORTH – SLADE POINT – ANDERGROVE – BEACONSFIELD – NORTHERN BEACHES – FARLEIGH – MT OSSA – SEAFORTH – KUTTABUL - CALEN – BLOOMSBURY – PROSERPINE – CANNONVALE – AIRLIE BEACH – BOWEN – COLLINSVILLE – NEBO – MORANBAH

Locally Owned. Community Loved.