Later this month the wedding industry will be united, as suppliers and industry professionals come together with future brides and grooms at the inaugural Wedding Industry Networking and Fashion Show which will be held at Whisper Restaurant & Gin Bar.

The event will celebrate our thriving local wedding industry and provide couples with a unique insight into the range of specialist services we have in the region.

A highlight of the evening will be an extraordinary fashion show presented by DK Bridal, featuring stunning bridal gowns designed by local talent Dina Kristwati.

The fashion show promises to unveil the latest trends in bridal couture, providing guests with an up-close and personal look at exquisite craftsmanship and artistry.

The Wedding Industry Networking and Fashion Show is brought together by a collaboration between Tourism Whitsundays and Weddings Whitsunday.

"This event is a remarkable opportunity to showcase the exceptional talents and services within our wedding community," said Stacy Harvey, event coordinator.

"With the generous support of Tourism Whitsundays, we are excited to host an evening that will inspire, connect, and captivate attendees."

Rick Hamilton, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays said they are thrilled to support the event.

"The collaboration between Weddings Whitsunday and Tourism Whitsundays demonstrates our dedication to showcasing the Whitsundays as a world-class wedding destination,” he said.

“We look forward to an evening of celebration, inspiration, and forging lasting connections within the wedding community."

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A fashion show will be a highlight at the inaugural Wedding Industry event. Photo supplied

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Have we got news for you!

To celebrate 55 years of the Airlie Beach Hotel, hotel members have been given some of the best chances at winning $250,000 worth of prizes, with two 2023 Toyota Corolla Ascents up for grabs.

Beginning from July 1, all you have to do is be a member of the Airlie Beach Hotel and swipe your card on eligible transactions, to go into the draw.

With easy entries, you may as well up sign up now and get as many chances as possible before the first draw!

Eligible transactions include:

- $25 food and beverage spend, in The Pub and The Bar

- $25 bottle shop spend, at any Airlie Beach Hotel Bottle Shop locations, excluding cigar, cigarette, and tobacco products

- $20 turnover on gaming machines

Prizes include food and beverage vouchers, points for your membership card, that can be redeemed with The Pub and The Bar for food and beverage purchases and the ultimate prize of two 2023 Toyota Corolla Ascent Sports Hatch in Glacier White.

Members are also able to receive additional entries by participating in special promotions on allocated days, until the end of the competition.

On draw days, members must be in the gaming room, with their member card inserted in a gaming machine.

As well as this, draws to go into the chance to win the Toyota are happening eight times a week, with the first car up for grabs on Saturday December 23, just in time for Christmas.

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Legendary icons in American country and blues music, Johnny Cash and June Carter are a powerhouse couple, and highly acclaimed tribute artists, Mark and Joanne Caligiuri, who are also a loved-up couple in real life, have taken on the reins of their massive legacy and will be performing at Airlie Beach Hotel next weekend.

Hey Get Rhythm: A Tribute To Johnny Cash and June Carter blossomed from Mark and Joanne’s love of classic 1950s and 60s music, which initially drew them together in the first place.

Since 2007, Hey Get Rhythm has become a family affair, with Mark’s two sons joining the mix, with Chris on the double bass and Lucas on drums, and Mark’s cousin Adam Prozzo as the lead guitarist.

These ‘Man in Black’ know exactly how to entertain a crowd, bringing the ‘Folsom Prison Blues’, ‘Ring of Fire’ and the ‘City of New Orleans’ to the Airlie Beach Hotel.

‘One Piece At A Time’, Mark and Joanne will make the audience reminisce on simpler times, of ‘Sunday Morning Coming’, of ‘Daddy Sang Bass’.

They certainly ‘Help Me Make It Through’ and at the Airlie Beach Hotel is definitely looking after us.

With enigmatic, yet palpable, on-stage chemistry, Mark and Joanne bring an authentic and intimate performance of Johnny and June, often travelling across Australia, and honouring the late legends.

Every fan, young and old, will find something to love next weekend, from classic ‘The General Lee’ to ‘I’ve Been Everywhere’ and everything in between.

From accurate costuming, musicality and production quality, this distinct show is unique to the real thing and don’t be afraid to get up on stage with the legends, with Mark and Joanne big fans of audience participation, setting the scene for high-energy, high-octane fun for the whole family.

Nothing is to chance, with the ensemble bringing the very best of American country and blues, of ‘Cocaine Blues’, ‘Me and Bobby McGee’ and the ‘Ballad of a Teenage Queen’ soundtracks for the fantastic afternoon shows.

The Airlie Beach Hotel will be looking after the audience, with the performance completely free and it is sure to be a stand out show.

Rock out the weekend the right way, in the comfort of the Airlie Beach Hotel, with one of the best classic American blues and country ensemble serenading you away into a cruisy evening in Airlie Beach.  WHAT: Hey Get Rhythm: A Tribute to Johnny Cash and June Carter

WHERE: The Pub, at the Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, July 15 and 16, 2pm to 5.30pm

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Loved-up couple Mark and Joanne perfectly encapsulate the essence of Johnny Cash and June Carter in this expressive and unique show

Surrounded by family, this Johnny Cash and June Carter tribute show remembers a history of the family travelling and performing together on tours

With touchingly intimate costuming and accurate vocals, Hey Get Rhythm is unlike any other Johnny Cash and June Carter tribute show. Photos supplied

Reprising one of his most iconic roles Tom Cruise is back as Ethan Hunt, in another unforgettable blockbuster, set to thrill, excite, and shock audiences.

In the seventh instalment of the Mission Impossible universe, audiences had high expectations, riding the high garnered from the nine-minute feature that was published months ago.

Ethan Hunt and his team face against a threat, perhaps one of the most dangerous they’ve ever faced.

The team must track down a powerful weapon, a weapon which, if it falls into the wrong hands, can destroy all of humanity.

It doesn’t stop there, with shadows from Ethan’s past also threatening the team and their efforts.

The mysterious and powerful new enemy alludes the team, and Ethan must face a terrifying thought, that nothing matters more than the fate of his mission.

Drawing on real world concerns, the importance that AI plays in the story line has been carefully hidden away from the trailers, adding even more intrigue to the film.

Sure to feature the very best of classic Mission Impossible stunts, the new film showcases new characters that are looking likely to breathe some fresh air into the franchise.

Tom Cruise is joined by Hayley Atwell, portraying the allusive Grace.

With fantastically rendered CGI and impressive cinematography, this film leaves audiences excited and eager for the follow up instalment, Dead Reckoning Part Two, where the stakes are even greater and are sure to leave everyone gasping at the thrills and spills.

This dual-film reprise of the franchise is a fantastic way to get fans back into the cinema, eager for the film, while allowing enough time to completely film and set the story line with appropriate pacing and staging for the audience to become completely engrossed in the action.

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Tom Cruise is back for the seventh instalment of the Mission Impossible franchise

Takes Over Be Social Fest

It’s one of the biggest days on Mackay’s social calendar and Be Social Fest returned with a bang on the weekend.

Music fans from far and wide descended onto Harrup Park as the sun shone on a perfect north Queensland winter’s day.

Local rockers The Wild Sky kicked off an epic day of world class live music, headlined by 360, Mallrat and San Cisco with Australian legends Grinspoon bringing the day to close.

Rides, activities, food and drinks kept punters entertained throughout the day before partying on into the night.

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Keen locals enjoyed a day of live music at Be Social Fest 2023. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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At Whitsunday Anglican School

Whitsunday Anglican School will welcome The James Morrison Quartet as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts in August.

Internationally acclaimed jazz musician and multi-instrumental virtuoso James Morrison will take to the stage alongside musicians from Whitsunday Anglican School before performing with his renowned jazz quartet.

The legendary jazz artist is considered a ‘genius’ on the trumpet, trombone, piano, saxophone and double bass and has played with legends including Ray Brown, Dizzy Gillespie, saying he is “One of The Best” as well as Dave Brubeck, Ray Charles and Quincy Jones.

Whitsunday Anglican School Principal Andrew Wheaton said the special performance was one of pure excitement for the school and wider community.

“The School Oval will be transformed into a major entertainment outdoor hub and we have partnered with an external event company to help bring this event to life,” he said.

“Ticket holders will be able to dine under the stars with catering options from Debbie’s Seafood and K&Co.

“There will also be food vendors and coffee carts available for purchases on the night.”

James Morrison will perform alongside Whitsunday Anglican School musicians as part of the performance event and will also host class workshops.

“This event provides an extraordinary opportunity for our students to perform alongside Jazz-great James Morrison and experience a live performance from an incredible musician,” Mr Wheaton said.

“We are incredibly proud of our Music and Music Extension programs at Whitsunday Anglican School, and our students are working very hard at their craft for this special event.

“Our students can immerse themselves in music and learn an instrument from Preparatory through to Year 12.

“We are looking forward to welcoming The James Morrison Quartet and his team to Mackay, and our remarkable School.”

Tickets and dinner packages are limited for this very special event and are on sale now.

Visit was.qld.edu.au for more details.

WHAT: The James Morrison Quartet at Whitsunday Anglican School

WHEN: Friday, August 4 from 7:00pm to 9:30pm

WHERE: Whitsunday Anglican School

TICKETS: Humanitix

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Esteemed jazz musician James Morrison brings his quartet to Mackay in August

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By Sam Gillespie

A group of local comedians are bringing their monthly Open Mic Night to the Ambassador Hotel today, June 30, and are inviting the community to have a crack.

The event has run on the last Friday of the month for over two years, giving locals a platform to expand their performance skills while offering Mackay an alternative for their Friday night’s entertainment.

Mackay Open Mic Comedy Group formed after a course was hosted by comedians Anna Brennan and Mandy Brown, where they met and began their monthly shows.

Brenden Hayles and Michelle Byrne had both always wanted to perform stand-up but weren’t seeing many opportunities in Mackay until then.

“I learnt the structure of a joke, understanding how to interact with a crowd and working with material on the spot,” said Mr Hayles.

“It isn’t just about getting up in front of a mic, there are a few processes with your writing and timing,” added Ms Byrne.

“We learnt so much and we got to put it into play at the end of our course when we put on our first show; we all felt like we’d hit the big time.”

The group has been hosting open mic nights ever since, rotating their roles from emcee to headliner, and inviting out-of-town guests to mix up each show.

On Friday, Ms Byrne, who had been hosting friends’ events for six years and had always been told she was funny, will bring her relatable brand of comedy to the stage as emcee.

“We cruise through the day without looking back and having a laugh,” she said.

“It’s true, laughter is the best medicine and it’s great for your health.

“These days, I think we need to find that funny side of things because we’re all too serious.”

Mr Hayles will also perform alongside headliner Deanne from Nth Queensland, with the invitation open for anyone else to come up and crack a gag.

“Anybody can have a go,” Mr Hayles said.

“You can come and do five minutes and try your best dad joke.

“We always encourage people to come up.”

The pair urge anyone who’s ever considered themselves a comedian to have a try, promising a safe, non-judgemental space full of laughs.

“We can laugh at ourselves, we can laugh with each other,” said Ms Byrne.

“Hearing the laughter in the room, especially if you’ve got that one person who has that odd laugh, it’s a nice pat on the back.

“You never know, it might be just the thing that you keep wanting to do.”

WHAT: Open Mic Night

WHEN: Friday, June 30 from 7:00pm

WHERE: The Ambassador Hotel Lush Bar

TICKETS: $10 at the door

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Michelle Byrne will emcee Friday night’s Open Mic Night. Photo supplied

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Perfect Wedding is the most globally performed comedy by British playwright Robin Hawdon, and it’s easy to see why. The play opens with the groom waking up on his wedding day beside a woman who is not his bride. Then we embark on a twisting turning tale with misunderstandings, mistaken identity and a very prominent toilet brush.

And it’s all coming to Kucom Theatre in July, for two weeks only, as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts Fringe program.

Here’s a personal invitation from the Director, Kathryn Evans. How can you refuse?

“You are cordially invited to the wedding day of Bill and Rachel.

“‘Perfect Wedding’ by Robin Hawdon is the Festival Fringe offering from Kucom Theatre. We all dream of having the Perfect Wedding and this one is a door slamming, laugh-a-minute farce.

“Starring some well-known faces and featuring some exciting new ones, this promises to be a night of fun and frivolity.”

Regular Kucom theatre goers will recognise some familiar faces from recent productions - Zachary Trounson (The Vicar of Dibley, When the Rain Stops Falling), Carolyn Roche (The Foreigner), Kristyn Everett (Five Women Wearing the Same Dress) – and give a warm welcome to newcomers Asta Ryan, Lani Seaton, and Michael Brennan.

What: Perfect Wedding

When: Thursday 6th, Friday 7th, Saturday 18th, Thursday 13th, Friday 14th, Saturday 15th July.

Where: Kucom Theatre, 1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove.

Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/perfect-wedding

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It’s been slated as a once in a lifetime opportunity to see live music on the shores of the iconic Cape Hillsborough National Park, with organisers of Between the Tides announcing that the July event is officially sold out.

Between the Tides will take place between two tidal movements on Cape Hillsborough beach, with Queensland Music Trails bringing central Queensland icons Busby Marou to the exclusive event on July 7 and 8.

Attendees will be the first to be treated to a performance of Busby Marou’s new record, Blood Red, live in its entirety, with other fan favourites also promised by the duo.

“It’s going to be magical,” said one half of Busby Marou, Tom Busby.

“Strangely, we’d been joking around in the back of a tour bus about playing a gig on the beach.

“When Queensland Music Trails approached us, we said, ‘Are you kidding? This is our bread and butter!’”

It will be the first time an artist has performed on the beach at Cape Hillsborough, with the audience beginning their experience with local music while enjoying an eco-friendly pop-up food and beverage bar in the parklands.

At dusk, they will be led down to the beach where the duo is set to perform.

“It is tremendous to see this location shine in a new and exciting way for locals and visitors,” said Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson.

“We can’t wait to showcase our tourism assets to the world and have more people discover Mackay.”

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Rockhampton duo Busby Marou will perform to sold out crowds across two nights at Between the Tides at Cape Hillsborough

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> ARTSPACE MACKAY  

DRAWING POTTERY

Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 5pm

Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 3pm

Workshop Room, Artspace Mackay

Drop in to Artspace Mackay during the June/July school holidays and make beautiful drawings of pottery! Inspired by Fire and Ash: Woodfire Pottery of Arthur and Carol Rosser, the Artspace Workshop Room will be transformed into an accessible drawing activity space with still life arrangements of pottery and the art materials you’ll need to make an artwork to take home or leave on display for all to enjoy! Bring your family and friends for a fun opportunity to create 2D artworks of 3D objects – exploring shape, form, line, colour, texture and space. Stay for a few minutes or a few hours, parental supervision is essential for kids under 13 years. Free entry and no bookings required. Visit the Facebook event for more details.

FREE PUBLIC ART WALK – NEW ROUTE

Friday, July 7, 4.30pm to 5.30pm

Depart from Artspace Mackay, Gordon Street

Hosted by Artspace Mackay Public Art Officer Jennifer Dalton-Smith, this free city art walk for all ages begins at Artspace Mackay and takes you through the city centre. Along the way, participants will learn about Mackay’s iconic public art installations and the local, and internationally acclaimed artists who created them. Whether you’re an artist, art lover, local or visitor to our lovely riverside city, you’ll find this late afternoon public art walk a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Bring friends, family members, or come by yourself - wear a hat, comfortable shoes, bring a bottle of water, and arrive promptly to Artspace Mackay as the group will depart on time. Free tickets, bookings required.

> LIBRARIES

MOVIE MATINEE

Friday, June 30, 2pm to 4pm at Gordon White Library  

Join us for an afternoon movie and popcorn. This event is for children aged five to 12 years old. Want to know what we are watching? Follow us on Facebook to find out. The movie will be announced prior to screening.

CARTOONING MAGIC

Wednesday, July 5, 10.30am to 12pm at Dudley Denny City Library  

Thursday, July 6, 10.30am to 12pm at Gordon White Library  

Join Melbourne comic book artist, Sabina Wills, in a fun comic book workshop for children aged nine to 12 years. Sabina will walk you through how to create your own characters and work on a comic book story. No experience necessary! FREE to attend. Bookings required.

> MACKAY REGIONAL BOTANIC GARDENS

TIBBLES HUNT IN THE TROPICAL SHADE GARDEN

Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm during school holidays

Tropical Shade Garden

Find Tibbles in the Tropical Shade Garden and decode his latest message for you! Return completed activity sheets to Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre to get your sticker. You can pick up your activity sheets from Visitor Information Centre, weekdays, 9am to 4pm.

BOCCE WITH A BUDDY

Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm during school holidays

Malta Garden’s Bocce Court

Enjoy a game of bocce with a friend on our sand bocce court. Bocce sets are available to hire from Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre or bring your own to play. Cost: $5 to hire a bocce set.

STROLLING STORIES – THE BUNGEE JUMPING CATERPILLAR

Friday, June 30, 9am to 4.30pm

Follow the Strolling Story to follow the adventure of ‘Zody’ and ‘AK’. Hunt for the bungee caterpillar painted rock along the looped circuit! There will be one painted bungee caterpillar rock hidden along the looped trail each weekday. Return the painted rock to Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre and get your very own copy of the Bungee Jumping Caterpillar book! The hunt is only available during the above times.

NATURE SCAVENGER HUNT

Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm during school holidays

Follow the instructions on the activity sheet to complete your Nature Scavenger Hunt in the Botanic Gardens. Pick up an activity sheet from Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre. To participate in the weekly draw and stand a chance to win a $30 voucher from the Gardens Shop, please ensure that you return the completed sheets to the entry box by the end of the school holidays week.

BOOKED ACTIVITY

CREATE AN INSECT HOTEL

Tuesday, July 4, 10am to 11am

Tropical Sun Lawn

Cost: $7/child

Create and decorate your own insect hotel to attract beneficial insects to your garden. This is a booked activity and places are limited. Suitable for children aged seven years up. Parental supervision required at all times. To book your spot, phone the Botanic Gardens on 4952 7300. Payment is required to confirm your booking. View the Facebook event.

> MACKAY WATERFRONT

RIVER WHARVES ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, July 5, 9.15am to 9.55am (40 mins)

River Wharves

Active Squirtz will be holding awesome adventures for children aged two to five years. Come along and join in this FREE event for the kids. Register your interest on the Facebook event.

CITY HEART FRIDAYS

Friday, July 7, from 4pm

Mackay City Centre

The City Centre comes alive on the first Friday of every month. There's something for everyone, from eats and drinks, to art, heritage, storytelling, shopping, special activities, fun for the kids and more. Follow the Facebook page to find out what will be on this month.

> SARINA SUGAR SHED

SPECIAL KIDS TOUR OF THE SARINA SUGAR SHED

Every day until Sunday, July 9, 10.30am

Adults at children’s prices (bookings essential)

Field of Dreams Parklands, Railway Square, Sarina

This fun, interactive session focuses on the kids, with the added bonus of adults welcome at kids' prices! During the 45-minute tour, the kids will discover the growing and harvesting of the sugar cane and complete a hunt for the critters that live in the sugar cane patch. Enter the miniature sugar mill to see how sugar cane is crushed, and sample deliciously sweet sugar cane juice straight from the miniature mill, 'Bill the Mill Junior’.

Special stickers help the kids to understand the machines that work in the process from turning juice into sugar – they can touch and feel the different stages of the production from the bagasse to the sugar and taste the molasses! They will also receive a free information sheet at the end, which is great for school projects, and the quick, fun quiz will help to keep the young ones engaged - they are guaranteed to learn something! Finally, everyone gets a chance to taste the non-alcoholic ginger beer brewed onsite and freshly spun fairy floss. (Please note this tour does not include a full tasting of products for the adults).

> SARINA YOUTH CENTRE

SCHOOL HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES

All events run 10am to 2pm

A variety of school holiday activities are on offer for youth aged ten to 21 years. You must register for a spot and please indicate what day/program you would like to attend. Contact Sarina Youth Centre on 4961 9277 or email sarinayouthcentre@mackay.qld.gov.au.

Friday, June 30: Movie day

Monday, July 3: Cookie decorating

Tuesday, July 4: Board game day – Verse your friends!

Wednesday, July 5: Coconut leave weaving

Thursday, July 6: Rock painting

Friday, July 7: Damper making and chicken vermicelli with Mudth-Niyleta

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Friday 30 June

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

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

Wake House Australia

Open Mic Night

Last Friday of every month, 7:00pm

Stand up comedy returns to the Ambassador Hotel with Deanne from Nth QLD headlining and Michelle Byrne as MC.

Ambassador Hotel

Saturday 1 July

2023 Riverside Festival

Saturday, 3:00pm to 10:00pm

2023 Riverside Festival hosted by 100.3 HitFM is located at Mackay's Bluewater Quay and will include the official opening of Red Dog Riverfront. This is a free community event, supported by Mackay Regional Council. Red Dog Beer Truck. Diablo Co. cocktail bar. Local food trucks. Fun activities. Live music from Jonte, Allessandro and Stone Faced Heathens.

Bluewater Quay

Formidable Vegetable (Duo) Album Launch at Mackay Community Garden

Saturday, 4:00pm

Fresh from a sold-out national tour and rocking the legendary Woodford Folk Festival with fat beets about plants, permaculture and the planet, Formidable Vegetable are back with some all new Spoonbill-boosted electro-funk and positive climate action that the whole neighbourhood can get down to as they launch their brand new album 'Micro Biome'. BYO Picnic & blankets/cushions. Kids show from 4:30 to 5:30pm. Permaculture electro funk-swing set from 7pm-8pm. Jam session afterwards - bring your instruments!

Mackay Community Garden

Vassallo Constructions Annual Tradie Auction

Saturday, 6:00pm to 11:00pm

Join an evening of entertainment, laughter, decadent street food tapas & a bar full of boujee beverages with proceeds going directly to the Grapevine Group to continue their quest of create awareness and vital training for suicide prevention. Place your bid on one or more of the 15 trade services up for grabs. Be mystified by the captivating Andino during the auction halftime magic show while indulging in delicious hot and cold platters created by Poco Cucina. Welcome drinks of wine, beer or prosecco on arrival. Downstairs in LUSH Function Room at the Ambassador Hotel.

Ambassador Hotel

MECC Presents: Circus Trick Tease: WERK IT

Saturday, 7:30pm

'WERK IT' by Circus Trick Tease is an all-new, late-night, high-energy, acrobatic comedy romp. Celebrating spandex, high-vis, vitality and vigour – 'WERK IT' received nightly standing ovations in it’s debut season. Combining never seen before acrobatic feats and jaw dropping skill, this show is the buzz of the town.

MECC

Indie Intensified

Saturday, 9:00pm

Noah Davis, Katanak, Comfort Royale and Weathered will be hitting the Empire stage from 9pm - don't miss out! Tickets on sale now - $15 or $20 at the door.

Empire Alternacade and Events – Mackay

Sunday 2 July

Mackay Weddings & Events Expo

Sunday, 11:00am to 3:00pm

Are you getting ready to marry the love of your life but not sure where to begin planning your special day? Are you planning an event or function but don’t know what services and vendors are available in the region? The Mackay Weddings & Events Expo is the event for you! Celebrating 10 years in 2023, the Mackay Weddings & Events Expo has grown to become the region’s number one platform for letting locals know what businesses are available for your wedding or event.

St Patrick’s Parish Hall

Friends of the MECC Jazz Brunch

Sunday, 11:00am

Swing into the MECC for a decadent brunch affair and a collection of smooth jazz sounds. Soothe your soul with a sensational collaboration between Conjazz, the exceptional Australian jazz vocalist Gregg Arthur and renowned jazz pianist Peter Locke. With an array of delectable delights, a drink on arrival and tantalising tunes, you won’t be able to resist moving to the swing era hits with this sensational collaboration.

MECC

Sunday Live Music

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.

Seabreeze Hotel

Monday 3 July

High Tea with Booff

Monday, July 3 to Sunday, July 9, 5:30pm, 6:30pm, 7:45pm, 8:45pm

Welcome to the wonderful other-worldly realm of BOOFF! This uniquely dark and immersive experience of comic theatre is something between a visit with royalty and popping-in to see your strangest and most favourite aunt for a madcap of tea. As you enter a world with richly detailed custom-made furnishings, bespoke chandeliers, you will meet an eloquent, other-worldly host with a larger-than-life personality. Lose yourself in this surreal tea-party filled with shared true stories that are partly scripted and partly improvised. With a twinkle in his eye, a glint of mischief, and perhaps even buffoonery... your disarmingly charming host, BOOFF wants you to love him, and as soon as you do, he wants you to laugh with him. Physically and verbally ridiculous, BOOFF can't blend in, but then he doesn't really try, and neither should you.

Ukiyo, Festival Hub, Civic Centre Precinct (61 Gordon Street)

Tuesday 4 July

Roll Back The Clock

Tuesday, 10:30am to 11:30am

Mackay City Bowls Club is taking a step towards curbing low physical activity rates among older Australians by encouraging them to ‘roll back the clock’ through lawn bowls, exercise and social interaction.  Our Roll Back the Clock Classes will run every Tuesday 10:30 – 11:30am for 8 weeks commencing on the 4th July.  A small cost for the class includes light exercise, a cuppa and a chat.  Contact Janette 0427275492 for more information.

Mackay City Bowls Club

Wednesday 5 July

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. It's a space to honour the uniqueness of each individual, everyone is equal. They will be able to speak from their hearts about things that trouble, annoy, frustrate them. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 6 July

Chair Yoga in North Mackay

Every Thursday, 2:00pm

Using a chair for support (either sitting or standing) Chair Yoga is a practice of gentle movement, combined with mindful breathing & meditation. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to focus on a gentle, nurturing practice. Chair Yoga can improve your balance, flexibility, concentration & strength, while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain. Bookings are essential. Call or text your full name to 0434 940 300 or message the Wellness With Deb Facebook page.

Palmview Village Community Centre, via Oasis Drive / Bradford St.

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

Le Coup

Thursday, July 6 to Sunday, July 9

It's Fight Night at the Circus! Brought to you under a lavish Ukiyo tent, Le Coup brings you the finest contenders from all around the country to fight for your attention, adoration, and applause. From sword swallowing to daring aerial feats, tap dancing to acrobatics, this ragtag troupe of travelling misfits will duke it out with common sense and even the laws of physics for your entertainment.

Ukiyo, Festival Hub, Civic Centre Precinct (61 Gordon Street)

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Formidable Vegetable

WERK IT

Mackay Weddings & Events Expo

Friends of the MECC Jazz Brunch

High Tea with Booff

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View the Gallery Here

For the 9th year, Gumlu held it’s Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea, hosted at the Molongle Beach Caravan Park, on Sunday June 18.

With almost 60 people in attendance, the morning tea showcased a fantastic spread of savory and sweet treats, with the customary array of tea and coffee.

Attendees travelled as far as Townsville and Bowen to take part in the event, made special by the overwhelming success of the day, raising $2,667 for the effort.

There were also raffle tickets and a cent sale, as well as money boards.

Lolly and teabag jar counting competitions also served as a welcome game for attendees.

All larger raffle prizes were donated by local businesses including Cornetts IGA, Sandbar Café, Gumlu Tavern, Lands Family Farm, Maria Torica, Sharon Gist, Christine Hinds, Complete Pharmacy Home Hill, and Home Hill/Ayr Lions Club.

A special auction of a 2022 signed Cowboys away jersey was held in the afternoon, donated and framed by Gumlu State School and the Gumlu P and C Association.

The highest bid was $1,000 by a couple from Bowen.

Thomas Harrington, Principal of Gumlu State School, acted as the MC for the morning tea, keeping everyone entertained and enthused.

Two speakers were welcomed to reflect on their experiences with cancer, high school teacher Nyree Woods, who reminded guests of the importance of being grateful for people in healthcare, and Christie Gist, who shared her recent loss of a colleague of cancer.

Christie is a clinical nurse and works in Townsville Palliative Care, aiding patients and their loved ones during one of the most difficult times.

She also works with QLD Ambulance ‘Make A Wish’ scheme, giving patients the joy of a wish.

In its nine-year history, the Gumlu Biggest Morning Tea has hit the milestone of raising $10,000 in 2014 and has run every year except for a COVID interruption.

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Massive turnout for annual Gumlu Biggest Morning Tea. Photo supplied

Get your sombreros and colourful outfits ready for a brand-new authentic Mexican Restaurant in the heart of Airlie Beach, a place where you can kick back and relax with a frozen margarita or bring friends and family for a lively dining experience.

There is something for everyone on the menu at Lazy Joe’s Cantina, specialising in Mexican Street Food with a splash of Texas BBQ, the restaurant is inspired by true Mexican street food with salsas and marinades made from traditional recipes.

Passionately created by General Manager Kelly Medford and the team, every item is inspired by her childhood spent in Texas and Mexico, creating that authentic depth of taste.

Enjoy Taquitos, Nachos, Quesadillas, Enchiladas, Elotes, and other classic Mexican Street Food, taste a hint of Texan influence with tangy ribs and finger-licking chicken wings.

It’s time to enjoy a dining experience where the flavour of Mexico does not stop with the food - traditional sombreros, colourful flags and stunning prints have been imported straight from Mexico - infusing every element of this fresh and funky restaurant with authenticity.

Lazy Joe’s is the brainchild of Joe Panuccio and his family who own and operate Paradiso, La Marina and Gelatiamo Dolce Patisserie and Gelato.

Coincidentally, Lazy Joe’s was the first Italian restaurant Joe opened in Melbourne 15 years ago and the name felt right to use once again in this latest venture.

“We are big on innovating in town, and we want to do other things in the future that fill the holes in a small town and always aim to give the people what they want,” said Joe.

With significant events happening within a few months of opening his last two restaurants, Joe hopes it is third time lucky with this one.

“When we opened La Marina in 2017, we had Cyclone Debbie a few months later, then when we opened Paradiso in December 2019, COVID came a long three months later!” he explains.

“Hopefully it will be third time lucky!”

Aiming at a broad and inclusive demographic, Lazy Joe’s Cantina is priced really well so that families can enjoy an affordable yet high-quality dinner out.

There are $9.90 frozen margaritas that are already hugely popular and for those wanting to spend more, or for celebrations, there are also specialty high-end drink items.

Divided into two clear zones, Lazy Joe’s has a funky Mexican themed bar area with high-stools and a more party-like atmosphere for those stopping for a casual taste of authentic street food or a delicious cocktail.

Through the archway, is the second zone; a light and airy cantina which is ideal for a more relaxed dining experience, romantic dinners, family gatherings or large group bookings.

Both areas boast stunning sea views across the Airlie Beach Foreshore from large bi-fold windows which let the soft salty air breeze in, just like you are in Mexico.

Located on Airlie Beach Esplanade, above the Tattoo Parlour, Lazy Joe’s is open every day, aside from Wednesdays.

Bookings are essential and can be made online lazyjoes.com.au.

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Dreams are coming true at the Airlie Beach Hotel next weekend with one of the best Fleetwood Mac tribute artists coming to the beach and saying that they love us.

Tusk – The Storybook Tribute to Fleetwood Mac brings all the charm and hit charisma of Fleetwood Mac, getting up close and personal with audiences and showing them what makes this classic rock band one of the greatest groups of all time.

Introducing Penni Jones as the ineffable Stevie Nicks, who’s portrayal of the star is touchingly intimate and hauntingly authentic.

With unforgettable vocals and classic charm, Penni embodies Stevie Nicks and all that she stands for.

Rachel Sifris as Christine McVie is the epitome of class and confidence, with fantastically classic vocals and dedicated and punchy keyboard lines.

Austin Dunmore is unmatched in his accurate recreation of guitarist Lindsay Buckingham, with his all-star guitar skills and the attitude to match.

Next to him is Kane Skinner as Mick Fleetwood on the drums, acting as a crucial backbone to the legendary group, bringing the high-octane energy and non-stop enthusiasm with him.

The group ‘Don’t Stop’ there, with Sam McAinch as John McVie on bass, bringing 20 years of industry professionalism and a dedicated rhythm to the group.

Performing as a tight-knit group for over 10 years, Tusk knows just how to rock a crowd, and Airlie Beach won’t be any different, swaying to the ‘Gold Dust Woman’ and the ‘Big Love’.

We’re not ‘Gonna Go Our Own Way’ with this one, that’s for sure, with the Airlie Beach Hotel making sure to keep the tunes turned all the way up and the drinks and good vibes non-stop.

Taking the journey from the early days of Fleetwood Mac, from the ‘Edge of Seventeen’, through to Stevie Nicks’ solo career, Tusk performs the good, the bad, and ugly, with every ‘Little Lies’ on display for an eager and excited audience.

This group eats, sleeps, and breath’s Fleetwood Mac classics, solidifying the everlasting impact this mammoth band had on the world.

“We’re unlike the usual Fleetwood Mac tribute shows,” explained Penni Jones.

“We’ve thrown out meticulously recreating the songs, we’re after the high energy, the interaction, we’re more about Tusk playing Fleetwood Mac, than being Fleetwood Mac.”

Unmatched in their accurate and tasteful recreation of the iconic Fleetwood Mac sounds, Tusk is not a performance to miss this July, Saturday 8 and July 9.

Take this journey through the story of Fleetwood Mac with the Airlie Beach Hotel, learn from the intimate and authentic Tusk – The Storybook Tribute to Fleetwood Mac, and be touched by the legendary band, iconic for their British blues soundtrack and artistic American pop, which continue to rock globally.

WHAT: Tusk – The Storybook Tribute to Fleetwood Mac

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday July 8 and Sunday July 9, 2pm to 5.30pm

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With over 10 years’ experience performing as the legendary rock band, Tusk is more than ready for the Airlie Beach Hotel

Penni Jones has all the charm and charisma of Stevie Nicks and won’t forget to wow the crowd with odes to Stevie’s solo career

Prepare to be blown away by this touchingly intimate and precious recreation of Fleetwood Mac. Photos supplied