It’s school holidays.

So, what does that mean? – A lot of things, sure. Kids everywhere, tired looking parents, an uptick in coffee consumption. But, I’ll tell you one thing it means for certain: A seemingly endless onslaught of animated features created specifically for children which curmudgeonly movie reviewers are tasked with watching and critiquing. The same gents who could – and certainly would - pick apart Citizen Kane, giving it a passing grade of C-.

Perhaps, like the grinches that they all are, these light-hearted festivals of fun can remind them what it means to be a kid – and their hearts might just grow three sizes that day.

In the case of Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, the heart-growing is in full swing.

The feat from director Joel Crawford to accomplish anything with a film that is a sequel to a spin-off of a series 20-years old is exceptional. And that’s undoubtedly helped by the cast at his disposal, the veteran pair of Antonio Banderas (as Puss) and Salma Hayek (Kitty Softpaws).

Discovering that his passion for adventure has taken its toll - burning through eight of his nine lives - Puss sets out on an epic journey to find the mythical Last Wish and restore his nine lives. Channelling Indiana Jones, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish is a whimsical treat.

The world of Shrek has always been replete with humour, particularly in its ability to embrace storytelling tropes, as well as breaking them in hilarious ways. And that’s the strength of writer Tommy Swerdlow’s script – it takes that manic, Grimm’s Fairytale world and turns it up to 11, adding in the spice of a Spaghetti Western.

As well, there’s a surprising elegance to the film’s animation, pushing the envelope of what we expect as an audience accustomed to two decades of Shrek and its spinoffs. Through a new, stylised approach, this film is as fresh and fun as they come.

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish is showing at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema now.

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This Australia Day the Whitsunday Sportspark will be transformed into a giant family-friendly slime fest and the whole community is invited to come together to get wet, messy, and of course slimed!

A series of fun obstacle courses will challenge participants, an inflatable waterslide will excite and lots of happy volunteers armed with spaying slime will add to the exhilaration of the day.

Make sure you wear some clothes you don’t mind getting ‘slimed’ and bring with you some water, a towel and some sunscreen.

Attendees can complete the course as many times as they want and are able to compete with teams or family members.

The cost is $5 per person or $25 for teams or families.

All proceeds go directly back into local projects that directly help disadvantaged youth.

The day begins with registration at 9.30am and the Slime Fest will start around 10am.

Before this, there will be a Welcome To Country and Smoking Ceremony officiated by the local Indigenous people.

Organiser and Youth Space Coordinator, Renee Buckley, said this was an important part of the day.

“We are all part of the same family, and we share the same story,” she said.

“Australia Day is a time to ‘Respect and Reflect’ and it was important we included everyone in the community.”

There will be a sausage sizzle and lamingtons on the day and refreshments for sale.

Renee is also hoping to confirm some local live entertainment in the coming weeks.

“We are very excited to put this together and do something a little different,” she said.

“The kids love water fights, and they love slime so we thought – what better way to celebrate Australia Day than this!”

The event has been organised by Proserpine Youth Space and was made possible by a grant from the National Australia Day Council.

WHAT: Whitsunday Slimefest

WHEN: Thursday, January 26

WHERE: Whitsunday Sportspark

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Image: The New Year’s Eve River Party will feature the soulful folk ballads of Matt Tandy

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He spends most of his time in a pineapple under the sea, but Mackay families can catch him on New Year’s Eve at the Bluewater Quay.

SpongeBob SquarePants, along with his pink starfish friend Patrick, will be performing at the New Year’s Eve River Party.

The duo will be putting on two exciting stage shows and will also be available for a meet and greet.

The New Year’s Eve River Party will run from 6:00pm to 9:00pm and will also feature the blissful melodies of local songstress Tiffany Grace and the soulful folk ballads of singer Matt Tandy.

Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Karen May said the River Party is a wonderful family-friendly event offering plenty of kids’ amusements, free face painting, food and market stalls.

“We also have the 9pm Key Solutions Group family fireworks display, which is always popular amongst those with children who like to see the year out with a bang before midnight,” Ms May said.

“This is a really lovely event that combines local musicians, spectacular fireworks, plenty of local food vendors and some family-friendly entertainment.

“The Mackay Festivals team do a lot of work over the holiday period to ensure everyone has a great time and they always go above and beyond.”

Festival and Events coordinator Sarah Porter said the River Party will also feature the traditional midnight fireworks display for those kicking on in the City Centre.

“The Bluewater Quay is a great venue to enjoy the last night of 2022 and Matt and Tiffany will create a really chilled vibe that’s perfect for families,” Ms Porter said.

For more information, including a full list of food vendors, head to themecc.com.au/festivals

WHAT: New Year’s Eve River Party

WHERE: Bluewater Quay

WHEN: Saturday, December 31 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm

This is a free community event.

Entertainment Schedule

6pm - Welcome to Country

6.05pm - Mayor Welcome

6.15pm - SpongeBob Square Pants (show 1)

6.45pm - Tiffany Grace

7.15pm - SpongeBob Square Pants (meet and greet)

7.40pm - Matt Tandy

8.35pm - SpongeBob Square Pants (show 2)

9pm - Fireworks

12am - Fireworks

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Christmas Wrapping

9:00am to 4:00pm daily until December 24

SCOPE ladies and volunteers will be Christmas Wrapping at Home Co between Thrifties and Spotlight starting November 26 until Christmas Eve daily 9am to 4pm. Gold coin plus extra for over-sized gifts. All proceeds go to local charities including Samaritan House, Chances Op Shop (Australian Street Aid Project) and Mackay Animal Rescue Society.

Home Co between Thrifties and Spotlight

Gift Wrapping For A Great Cause

Daily until December 24

Get your Christmas gift wrapping sorted and help make a difference through a small donation to the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Our gift-wrapping elves will be located in front of the food court travelators, helping to make Christmas that little bit easier for all. Bookings not required.

Mount Pleasant Centre

Santa Photos

Daily until December 24

Santa Claus is coming to Mount Pleasant Centre.

Mount Pleasant Centre

Friday 23 December

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

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

Wake House Australia

Christmas Lights Ride

Friday, 6:30pm to 8:30pm

Light up the night and celebrate with a merry, festive and social ride! Add tinsel, baubles, stars and lights! Mandatory bike (and rider) dress-up! Average pace will be 23km/hr. Keep an eye on Corry Cycles’ Facebook page for an updated map of Mackay Lights.

Corry Cycles

Lucid Wings Live at the Seabreeze Hotel

Friday, 7:00pm

Cap off your work week at the Seabreeze Hotel. Dance the night away with duo Lucid Wings performing from 7pm - 10pm.

Seabreeze Hotel

Sunday 25 December

Annual No One Eats Alone Christmas Lunch

Sunday, 11:00am to 1:00pm

Roshni Indian Restaurant invites those doing it tough to join in on a Christmas Lunch. Volunteers are also welcome from 10:45am.

Roshni Indian Restaurant

Saturday 31 December

New Year's Eve River Party

Saturday, 6:00pm to 9:00pm

The ever-popular NYE River Party brought to you by the Mackay Regional Council is back at Bluewater Quay from 6pm - 9pm. This free community event is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. There will be non-stop entertainment for the whole family featuring amusement rides, face painting, food vendors, local musicians Tiffany Grace and Matt Tandy, as well as two exciting kids performances from special guests, SpongeBob Square Pants and Patrick! The NYE River Party will be topped off with the 9pm fireworks display brought to you by Key Solutions Group. Don't forget to head back to Bluewater Quay for the midnight fireworks as we celebrate the start of 2023!

Bluewater Quay

NYE22 Pyjama Party @ The Bowlsie

Saturday, 6:00pm

NYE22 @ The Bowlsie brings you the most epic pyjama party featuring The Feels live on the deck, outdoor cinema with popcorn, fairy floss, snow cones and sweet treat corner. Amusement Rides include Adrenalin Run, Mechanical Bull, Gladiator, Swing Chairs and Jumping Castle (unlimited ride armbands available for pre-purchase from Eventbrite for $25). Win a $100 Peter Alexander Gift Card for Best Dressed. Food & Beverages available all night!

Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

New Year’s Eve in the Garden Bar

Saturday, 6:00pm

Join Harrup Park for this free event and celebrate into the new year with DJ Lambstar in the Garden Bar from 6pm. Bring on 2023!

Harrup Park

NYE Rock n Roll Party

Saturday, 6:00pm

Join Souths for the party of the year and a night of rock n roll! Enjoy an evening of entertainment from 7pm with the Ron & Deb band performing the hottest rock and roll hits until 12:30am. The kids can party the night away in the Kids Disco and free face painting from 6pm (kids welcome to stay until 12am). Food and drink specials available all night.

Souths Leagues Club Mackay

All That Glitters NYE Karaoke Celebrations & Karaoke Comp Grand Final

Saturday, 6:30pm

Join in with Souths Suburban Bowls Club and Karaoke Under The Stars for your favourite karaoke songs at their NYE Family Celebrations Party. This will be a night of singing, dancing, celebrations and fun to be had by all

Souths Suburban Bowls Club

New Year’s Eve @ The Grove

Saturday, 7:00pm

Join The Grove this New Year’s Eve. Awesome hourly giveaways from 7pm ‘til late, boogie with Nathan Kennedy from 7:30pm ‘til late, delicious chef specials and ice cold drinks all night long. Welcome 2023 with your Grove Family.

The Grove

Fiesta on Wood

Saturday, 9:00pm

Party 2022 away with a Mexican Street Party at Moss on Wood! Entertainment by G-Force and Viva from 9pm. Free entry. Street party games. Prizes for best dressed. Get your sombreros on and have a great night out!

Moss on Wood

Tuesday 3 January

Morning Melodies

Tuesday, 11:00am to 1:00pm

Enjoy a morning of fun, food and entertainment with Morning Melodies at the Leagues Club with Anette Worthington performing live once a month! The cafe will be open from 10am & the bistro from 12pm.

Souths Leagues Club Mackay

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Image: L-R Ananya Sinha, Maddison Filtness, Charlie Webb and Pranav Sivanujan

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Graduating year 12 students across the state eagerly jumped online last Friday morning as ATAR scores were released.

Sixty per cent of eligible Whitsunday Anglican School (WAS) year 12 school leavers received an ATAR score of 90.00 or above, their results the proof of years of dedicated study.

Pranav Sivanujan received the highest possible ATAR score of 99.95, the first Whitsunday Anglican School student to do so under the recently introduced ATAR system and one of 33 in the State.

Pranav’s result puts him in extremely good stead for his plans to study medicine at university next year.

“Over the last couple of years, just building that repertoire and getting support from teachers has really helped me,” he said.

“Putting in the hard work definitely counted for something now.”

48% of WAS students achieved an ATAR result of 95.00 or above and 26% of students achieved an ATAR of 99.00 or higher.

Departing School Captain and budding Air Force Engineer Charlie Webb was one of the 26% and said his score aptly reflects his efforts throughout his senior year.

“A lot of late nights, a lot of slogs at some points and the effort has paid off,” he said.

“I was over the moon when I opened it up this morning, it was fantastic.”

Ananya Sinha and Maddie Filtness also earned scores of over 99.00.

“I’m not talking about only myself when I say this, but I definitely think that everyone was working very hard and that’s because the cohort was there to support each other at all times, whether it was during exam week or at the start of the term,” said Ananya.

“I definitely think that everyone worked really hard, and that teamwork came into play during external exams.”

“I’m really happy that all the hard work paid off but a bit sad that school’s out, too, to be honest,” added Maddie

“Lots of late nights, especially with sport and work, it was really hard to manage it all but shows it’s all worth it.”

Both Ananya and Maddie are awaiting university offers with the hope of studying medicine.

“I reckon it’ll be a lot harder, but it should be okay, we should all adjust and get used to it,” said Maddie.

Ananya said that while a little bit of stress can be good, her advice to the senior year of 2023 is to not stress too much.

“Just stay focused and always rely on your peers and your teachers because they’re the ones who get you through the year,” she said.

Whitsunday Anglican School Principal Andrew Wheaton said results were testament to the Year 12s’ hard work in their final year, and a genuine commitment to academic growth, effort and improvement at the school.

“At Whitsunday Anglican School, our commitment to academic improvement allows us to support our young men and women to consistently realise their goals and aspirations – be that University, or a Trade or VET pathway,” he said.

Graduates following a tertiary education pathway now await university offers which are expected in January.

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Bring in the New Year with some sweet tunes, ocean vibes, great company and a relaxed party atmosphere at Balearica Beach Club’s three-day spectacular fiesta.

Famous DJs, live musicians and roaming dancers will entertain across this epic event which spreads out over the Whitsunday Sailing Club lawns and incorporates two-stages and a barefoot beach dancefloor.

Relax on one of the soft white sofas, lay back on a sun lounger looking out to sea or get amongst the party and join the dancefloor that will be pumping throughout the event.

Legendary DJs will feature across the three-day event - Nina Sinclair, DJ Madison, Gloria Ansell, Skye Walker and Groove Armada’s Jamie Porteous as well as Austin King who used to play with Snoop Dogg.

A central dancefloor will be at the heart of the event and a second stage at the Bali Hut will offer a more intimate feel and chilled out vibe.

Extending from Friday, December 30, to Sunday, January 1, the first day will be a warm-up event and the last day a chilled-out Sunday session with popular remixes of your favourite songs.

New Year’s Eve itself will be the main day with a bigger festival feel that will feature an array of food vans and pop-up bars.

A Spanish tapas food van will serve up fresh and delicious street eats – from prawn skewers to meatballs, stuffed calamari and olives.

A world renowned, award-winning Paella Chef will also be attending and cooking some of the most incredible Spanish cuisine.

There will also be the Rilo ice-cream truck for the kids or kids at heart.

The main bar has also been extended and there will be dedicated espresso martini station, Corona bar and a champagne bar with a glass of bubbles free on arrival.

WHAT: Balearica Beach Club New Year’s Eve Spectacular

WHEN: Friday December 30 to Sunday January 1

PRICE: $75 per person for New Year’s Eve (kids free)

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Image: An Australian Bass caught in one of the 63 impoundments in Queensland’s Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme. Credit: Department of Agriculture and Fisheries

Recreational fishers in parts of regional Queensland now have a cash lure to wet a line in five of the State’s favourite stocked impoundments.

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said Kinchant Dam is one of the locations where some of 100 tagged fish have been released as part of a competition.

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“The first fifteen fish caught on a line and accurately reported to InfoFish will win a prize and the sooner you catch a tagged fish, the larger the prize will be,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“Kinchant Dam is a great place to go fishing, and we want even more North Queensland families to enjoy the experience.”

Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said $50,000 was on the line in the first-ever tagged fishing competition involving Queensland’s Stocked Impoundment Permit Scheme (SIPS).

“Thanks to the efforts of the Freshwater Fishing and Stocking Association of Queensland Inc, fishers can cast their lines and try their luck in the inaugural Fish’n’SIP$ competition for a good feed that will also net a cash bonus in time for Christmas,” Mr Furner said.

“A total of 100 legal-sized fish, including barramundi and bass, have been tagged and released in the five participating impoundments in the Wide-Bay Burnett, Central and North Queensland regions.

“Lake Tinaroo, Lake Proserpine, Kinchant Dam, Lake Callide, and Lake Cania are each breaming with 20 tagged fish that could be worth from $1000 to $20,000.

Mr Furner said the only catch was that fishers need to purchase a SIPS permit to tackle the five impoundments involved in the Fish’n’SIP$ competition.

“SIPS plays an important part in the Queensland Government’s overall Sustainable Fisheries strategy by helping to alleviate pressure on our wild fish populations,” Mr Furner said.

“Revenue from SIPS permits supports our volunteer partners in the program to stock impoundments with native fish species including golden perch, Australian bass, and barramundi specifically for recreational fishing.

“Fishing in Queensland’s 63 SIPS impoundments, which require a permit to fish with a line, also gives the economy an annual boost of approximately $100 million, with at least a quarter of that amount spent directly in regional economies.

“I encourage recreational fishers to get a SIPS permit which you can access on-line and hook into this exciting new tagged fishing competition.”

SIPS permits are available for purchase online, through the QLD Fishing 2.0 smartphone app, at 585 Australia Post outlets throughout Queensland and northern New South Wales or by phoning 1300 575 359.

Visit qld.gov.au/recreation/activities/boating-fishing/rec-fishing/dams to find the nearest stocked waterway and buy a permit, or call 13 25 23 for more information.

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Images:

1: Jenny Price and Helen Stewart at the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre’s annual Christmas party. Photos: Owen Bromley

2: Lilian Brown and Di Proctor

3: Rhonda Payne and Jenny Costello

4: Rosemary Rowles and Marg Schwarzrock

5: Gayle Tomerini and Marg Hinrichs

6: Charlie Payne and Bob Neilsen

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Christmas was in the air at the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre when volunteers and crafters gathered to celebrate another year at their annual party on Saturday.

Chairperson Jenny Price thanked both the crafters and volunteers for their efforts during the year and praised the quality of crafts on offer at the centre.

“We have a wonderful array of crafts, all made locally by our talented crafters,” she said.

“Our volunteers do a marvelous job of ensuring that the centre is open to the public.”

By Charlie Payne

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Globetrotting, ‘Atlantic Crossing’: A Rod Stewart tribute concert with the look, the voice, and the moves is making its way to the Whitsundays’ ‘Sailing town’ in early January

Direct from America, ‘Forever Rod’, a Rod Stewart and Cher Show is coming to The Pub for two free shows on Tuesday, January 3, and Wednesday, January 4.

Helmed by Rob Caudill as Rod Stewart and Ashleigh Toole as Cher - two world-class performers – this tribute act is a high-calibre affair not to be missed at the Airlie Beach Hotel as the very best of both artists is on display.

People stop Rob Caudill in airports for autographs. They stare at him in restaurants. And when he struts on stage, women scream themselves hoarse. Why?

Well, ‘Some Guys Have All The Luck’, Rob Caudill amongst them; he is an absolute dead ringer for Rod Stewart.

There’s the high-definition jawline, the shock of spiky blonde hair, but ‘Hold On’, this is the kicker: He has the nose.

And if that weren’t enough, Rob has Rod’s naturally raspy voice, which sounds like the legendary Stewart, even allowing him to easily nail every high note from the singer’s younger days.

He has Rod’s repertoire of favourites down pat: Maggie May, Hot Legs, Rhythm of My Heart, Forever Young, Have I Told You Lately That I Love You, Tonight’s the Night, Do You Think I’m Sexy, and so many more – and it’s taken him all over the world, mesmerizing crowds with his amazing vocals and high energy portrayal.

And his credentials backup his looks: He’s been a part of the longest running Las Vegas based tribute show, ‘Legends In Concert’, for 15 years.

“I’ve got the greatest job in the world, making a living doing something I love,” Rob said.

In fact, those Las Vegas shows have left “no doubt about it”, with some famous faces attending over the years – take it from Joe Walsh of ‘The Eagles’: “This is one impersonator that will make you do a double take. He is that good.”

And John Entwhistle of ‘The Who’ had some kind words to say, too: “Rob’s voice and look is unbelievable. It is like looking at Rod Stewart himself”

Adding to the excitement is who Rob will share the spotlight with at The Pub.

Ashleigh Toole – a storied songstress who made it into the top 12 of Australian Idol in 2009, wowing the judges – will show off her honed likeness to Cher, embodying the famed singer as If I Could Turn Back Time and a young Cher is back on the Bar-Top Stage.

“Cher has many idiosyncrasies that I include in my show,” Ashleigh said. “It’s a lot of hard work but a lot of fun at the same time.”

Don’t miss their combined shows – the fun, the electricity – when it arrives at the Airlie Beach Hotel in the New Year for absolutely free.

What: “Forever Rod”, Rod Stewart & Cher Show

When: 2.00pm to 5.30pm on Tuesday, January 3, and Wednesday, January 4

Where: The Airlie Beach Hotel

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Two Rod Stewart Tribute performances of epic proportions are coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel in January

Rob Caudill, who has the uncanniest resemblance to Rob Stewart, helms the free shows

Joining him is Ashleigh Toole, who will take on the role of Cher in the double feature

Utter insanity, thy name is Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile.

I’m not entirely sure how someone convinced Shawn Mendes to star as a computer-generated, singing reptile. But thank goodness they did; we’d all been asking for it.

Most of the film’s fun comes from that absurd premise which is the topping to a standard film-base: The Primm family (Constance Wu, Scoot McNairy, Winslow Fegley) have moved to New York City, and their young son, Josh, is struggling to adapt to his new school. How do we remedy that? We give him a singing crocodile named Lyle (Shawn Mendes).

It’s all very Paddington without the foppish, British charm.

But where it lacks in that department, it makes up in spades of this fever-dream, phantasmagorical quality that makes it insane for viewers over 20, but sensical for those under it.

Why wouldn’t the crocodile have a taste for baths, caviar, and great music? It’s that dream-logic, kid’s storybook styling that is Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile’s biggest strength. And of course, as a children’s book, it has that moral heart of: Being an outcast isn’t a bad thing – be you, be unique.

So, after all of that mess of moral signalling, we have a story about Lyle's existence being threatened by the evil neighbor Mr. Grumps (Brett Gelman). So the Primm's must band together with Lyle's charismatic owner, Hector P. Valenti (Javier Bardem – yes, he’s in this), to show the world that family can come from the most unexpected places and there's nothing wrong with a big singing crocodile with an even bigger personality.

Regardless of the absurdity, there is an impressive feat of technical wizardry on display in Will Speck’s film that reminds of Robert Zemeckis’ Who Framed Roger Rabbit. In the sense, at least, that the actors are interacting with something actually there, if cartoonish, crocodile.

A good bit of family fun for the school holidays.

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is showing at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema from December 28

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Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile is absurd – but it’s also great fun for the whole family

Fabulous Fireworks

A New Years’ Eve celebration is never complete until you’ve watched the magnificence of brightly coloured fireworks illuminate the night sky. There’s something about the dazzling lights and large pops of noise that inspire, enliven and cast you back to a nostalgic place where you can reflect on the past then look to the future with hope and promise.

There are three free community firework events this year:

WHERE: Bowen Foreshore

WHEN: 8.30pm
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WHERE: Collinsville Showgrounds

WHEN: 9pm
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WHERE: Airlie Beach Foreshore

WHEN: 8.30pm and 12am

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KC’s Tropical Party

Wear your best Hawaiian shirt and join a sea of bright, bold colours as you welcome the New Year in with a tropical party. Each guest will receive free Leis on arrival and legendary musician Lloyd Saunders will be performing from 8pm until late. Fireworks can be seen from across the road.

WHEN: open 11am until 2pm

PRICE: Free entry before 9.30pm and $10 after

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Whisper Restaurant and Bar

Enjoy an Indonesian Smorgasbord at Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar this New Year’s Eve, the perfect beginning to the night’s festivities. Located at Mirage Whitsundays, this exclusive venue has uninterrupted sea views, and a delicious Gin cocktail will be served on arrival. The event wraps-up at 10pm and a free shuttle into Airlie Beach is running from 8pm until close.

WHEN: open 10am until 10pm (Indonesian Smorgasbord from 6pm until 8pm)

PRICE: $99 for adults and $59 children aged 4 to 12

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Coral Sea Resort Hotel

Celebrate New Year’s Eve evening at Coral Sea Resort with poolside vibes, panoramic sea views and the sweet tunes of DJ Dave Brannon. There will also be real life mermaids, fire twirlers, a light show and fireworks at 9pm. The a la carte restaurant is open with Lobster specials and there are food stations dotted across the venue including the Wagyu beef slider station and the Moreton Bay bug roll station.

WHEN: From 4pm until 9pm

PRICE: $60 entry only

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Grand View Hotel

Everyone is invited to dance the night away at the Grand View Hotel this New Year’s Eve with live band Rebelquin booked to get the party started and play throughout the evening. A range of cocktail specials will also be on offer.

WHEN: open from 10am till late

PRICE: Free

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Airlie Beach Hotel

The party will be rocking all night long at The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel. With its bar-top stage, pumping atmosphere and friendly bar staff, this New Year is guaranteed to be fun. Start the party early with Gold Coast entertainers Geed Up - boasting their polished three-piece harmonies, impressive dance moves and unique humour – this band always impress. This event gets the crowd warmed-up for the headline act – Dreams – Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks Tribute Show. Re-live one of the legendary bands and performers of the seventies and eighties with a group of musicians dedicated to the task of bringing this era to the stage for all to enjoy.

Geed Up

WHEN: from 2.30pm

PRICE: Free

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Dreams Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks Tribute Show

WHEN: 5pm until 12am (show starts at 8pm)

PRICE: $120 pre-sale ($150 on the door)

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Jubilee Tavern

Kids eat free this New Year’s Eve at the Jubilee Tavern and families are invited to enjoy a meal together before heading into Airlie Beach to watch the fireworks.

WHEN: 5.30pm to 830pm

PRICE: Kid’s eat free with purchase of adult’s meal

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Photo credit: Matthew Newton

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Image: Mackay Lego robotics team The Golden Blocks are holding workshops to fundraise for their upcoming First Lego League Asia Pacific Open Championship Competition campaign. Photos supplied

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It has taken plenty of trial and error, hours of dedication and piles of Lego but Mackay’s robotics team The Golden Blocks are getting ready to represent Australia at the First Lego League Asia Pacific Open Championship Competition.

The team recently competed in the National competition and took home first place for the Core Value Award and Robotic Performance Award.

One of the team’s coaches, Maighan Grant, said that the team had to code their robot to complete as many missions as possible in 2.5 minutes.

“In the competition they need to solve missions with their robot and attachments by coding it all,” she said.

“We achieved the highest score in Queensland at North Nationals at the end of November.”

Speaking about the upcoming international competition in June 2023, Ms Grant said that it’s an exciting opportunity for the students.

“They have really learnt a lot so far on this journey including critical thinking, teamwork, presenting, coding, planning and renewable energies,” she said.

“This next opportunity will be a big challenge for everyone but will be so rewarding for the students to grow as individuals.

“It is an honour to represent our country as coaches and team members.”

The community home-school team will compete against many teams supported by education institutions.

To support the students further and raise funds for the next competition, The Golden Blocks will be hosting robotics workshops over the school holidays.

Mrs Grant said the workshops are in partnership with a local Lego education company called Young Engineers Central Queensland.

“The team is excited to share their skills about robotics building and coding with students in the community,” she said.

The robotics workshops are open to 8-12 year old’s and no previous experience is necessary.

More information can be found on The Golden Blocks Facebook page and Eventbrite.

Contributed by Maighan Grant

WHAT: The Golden Blocks Robotics Workshops

WHERE: CQUniversity Ooralea Campus

WHEN: January 3, 6, 18 and 20, 2023

TICKETS: Eventbrite

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Mackay regional council area residents are being reminded about the following council facility closures over the Christmas and New Year holiday period.

Call Centre 1300 MACKAY (622 529)

Council’s local call centre will be closed Saturday, December 24, to Monday, January 2 (inclusive) with an after-hours service operating during this time for emergency calls. For non-urgent requests and payments, visit www.mackay.qld.gov.au/request.

Customer Service Centres

Mackay

Closed Saturday, December 24, to Monday, January 2

Reopening 9am, Tuesday, January 3

Mirani

Closed Saturday, December 24, to Sunday, January 8

Reopening 9am, Monday, January 9

Sarina

Closed Saturday, December 24, to Sunday, January 8

Reopening 9am, Monday, January 9

Artspace Mackay

Closed Saturday, December 24, 2022, to Monday, January 2, 2023

Reopening 10am, Tuesday, January 3

Foodspace

Closed from 2pm, Friday, December 23

Reopening 8am, Monday, January 9

Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre Box Office

Closed from 3pm, Friday, December 23

Reopening 9am, Monday, January 9

Tickets for shows and events can be purchased online via themecc.com.au during this time.

Jubilee Community Centre

Closed from 4.30pm, Friday, December 23

Reopening 8.30am, Tuesday, January 3

Aquatic facilities

Mackay ARC

Closed Sunday, December 25

Bluewater Lagoon

Open every day from 9am to 5.45pm

Closed Sunday, December 25

Memorial Swim Centre

Sunday, December 25 - Closed

Monday, December 26 - Closed

Sunday, January 1 - Closed

Mirani Swim Centre

Sunday, December 25 - Closed

Monday, December 26 - Closed

Sunday, January 1 – Closed

Pioneer Swim Centre

Sunday, December 25 - Closed

Monday, December 26 - Closed

Sunday, January 1 - Closed

Sarina Pool

Sunday, December 25 - Closed

Monday, December 26 - Closed

Sunday, January 1 - Closed

Mackay Regional Council Libraries

Closed 5pm, Friday, December 23

All libraries will reopen as normal from Tuesday, January 3.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Administration and Tropical Shade Garden

Closed from 4pm, Friday, December 23

Reopening 9am, Tuesday, January 3

Botanic Gardens Café and Lagoons Gallery

Closed from 3pm, Sunday, December 18

Reopening 9am, Wednesday, January 11

Museums and Historical Centres

Please note all museums and historical centres are currently closed and will reopen in 2023.

Greenmount Homestead

Reopening Monday, March 20, 2023

Museums and Historical Centres

Mackay Museum: Reopening Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Sarina Museum: Reopening Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Pioneer Valley Museum: Reopening Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Ken Burgess Orchid House

Closed 2pm, Sunday, December 18

Reopening 10am, Sunday, January 8

Sarina Sugar Shed

Open seven days a week, 9am to 4pm.

Closed Saturday, December 25, reopening 9am, Wednesday, December 28

Closed Sunday, January 1, reopening 9am, Tuesday, January 3

Sarina Youth Centre

Closed 2pm, Friday, December 23

Reopening 10am, Tuesday, January 3

Sarina Neighbourhood Centre

Closed 2pm, Friday, December 23

Reopening 10am, Tuesday, January 3

Waste facilities

Council’s waste facilities will only close for Christmas Day, except for Paget Waste Management Centre, which will be open for limited hours on Christmas Day from 6.15am to noon.

Waste collection services will continue to run routine pick-ups during the Christmas holiday period. Residents are reminded to leave their wheelie bins out as normal.

Incredable Ltd (Resource Recovery Facility – drop-off) will be closed from Saturday, December 24 until Thursday, January 5, 2023 (inclusive), reopening Friday, January 6, at 9am.

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