
Friday 24th April Conversations with Art 1.30pm Held one Friday a month at Artspace Mackay, Conversations with Art invites the community to slow down and step inside the world of creativity through relaxed, guided discussion led by gallery staff. Running from 1.30pm to 3.00pm on selected dates between April and November, the free sessions explore artworks and images from gallery and museum collections in an engaging, open format. Designed for all experience levels, from curious beginners to practising artists, the program offers an inclusive space to reflect, question and connect through art. Free tickets available. Artspace Mackay Youth Fest ‘26 2.30pm Young people across Mackay are invited to celebrate Queensland Youth Week at Youth Festival ’26, a free afternoon of entertainment, creativity and connection hosted by the Mackay Youth Council at Northern Beaches Community Hub. Running from 2.30pm to 6.00pm on Friday 24 April, the event will feature free food, live music, visual arts, games, sports and a range of interactive activities designed to bring the community together. Open to ages 11 to 18, Youth Fest ’26 offers a welcoming space to relax, meet new people and try something different in a vibrant, youth-focused atmosphere. Northern Beaches Community Hub Community Jam At Friday Flow 6pm Community members are invited to kick back and enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the river at Community Jam Friday Flow at Bluewater Quay. Running for two and a half hours, the free community gathering offers something for all ages, with children able to burn off energy on a fun gymnastics airtrack while adults unwind to live music from Jamesley. Food and drinks will also be available, creating the perfect setting to catch up with friends, enjoy the waterfront atmosphere and ease into the weekend with the local community. Bluewater Quay Saturday 25th April ANZAC Services Refer to page 10 for a full list of ANZAC Day services taking place across the Mackay and Isaac regions. A wide range of dawn, morning and commemorative services will be held, offering multiple opportunities for the community to come together, pay respects and honour those who laid their life down before us. Abundance Day 9am Come Along for Abundance Day, a celebration of sharing, connection and homegrown produce hosted by the MCG Crew. The event encourages residents to bring along excess fruit, vegetables, seeds or garden harvests, from pumpkins to citrus and everything in between, to share with others in the spirit of “people care and fair share.” Held as a relaxed community gathering, the day also includes a shared morning tea, with participants welcome to bring a plate to contribute. Abundance Day celebrates gardens of all sizes and aims to revive a simple tradition of generosity, sustainability and community spirit through the gift of fresh, seasonal produce. 7 Sarah Street, Mackay Artist Book Collective 10.30am Held on the fourth Sunday of each month, the Artist Book Collective (ABC) invites creatives across the region to connect through the art of bookmaking at Artspace Mackay. Running from 10.30am to 12.30pm in the Workshop Room within the Civic Precinct on Gordon Street, the community-led group brings artists together to share skills, exchange ideas and draw inspiration from the Mackay Regional Council Artists’ Book Collection. New members are encouraged to attend and contribute to a growing local network of book artists, fostering collaboration and creative exploration in a welcoming, hands-on environment. Free tickets available 61 Gordon Street, Mackay True Street ANZAC Day Meet 4pm Gather this ANZAC Day for the True Street Car Meet, beginning from 4.00pm by the beach at Mulherin Park, East Point Avenue near the Surf Life Saving Club. The family-friendly event offers an afternoon showcase of vehicles in a relaxed coastal setting, with space for children to play, a nearby playground, and plenty of room to unwind with a chair or picnic blanket. Attendees are encouraged to settle in and enjoy the sunset atmosphere, with a BBQ also possible on the day. The gathering offers a laid-back way for the community to come together and reflect on ANZAC Day, under the spirit of remembrance and connection. Mulherin Park, East Point Avenue near the Surf Life Saving Club Tuesday 28th April BMA Kids Space 9.30am enjoy BMA Kidspace, a free monthly program for children aged 0–5 years at Artspace Mackay. Running from 9.30am to 1.30pm one Tuesday each month, the drop-in program offers hands-on art-making, live music, singing and dancing in a relaxed, co-operative learning environment. Two art sessions and a dedicated music session allow families to come and go throughout the morning. Supported by Artspace Mackay and BHP Mitsubishi Alliance, the program encourages early creativity, play and connection, with no bookings required. Artspace Mackay Free safeTALK Suicide Prevention 6pm Community members are encouraged to attend a free safeTALK Suicide Prevention training session, with bookings essential via www.grapevinegroup.org.au/safeTALK. The workshop teaches participants how to identify someone at risk of suicide, start conversations with people experiencing suicidal thoughts, and connect them with appropriate support services. Delivered by qualified LivingWorks trainers, the internationally recognised program builds practical, life-saving awareness. Places are strictly limited to 30 participants, with early booking recommended. Parents may also bring teenagers aged 15 and over to take part in the training. Ocean International
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Feathers will fly for Mackay audiences when Circa’s Duck Pond arrives to the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on 6 May, reimagining Swan Lake as a contemporary circus spectacular. Directed by Yaron Lifschitz, the production is packed with Circa’s signature physicality and a bold, playful energy. Replacing classical ballet with aerials, acrobatics and tightly choreographed ensemble work, Duck Pond delivers spectacle with a wink. Cheeky visual moments - including a sequinned, flipper-wearing duck army and a burlesque Black Swan - bring humour and surprise to the stage. While the energy is high, the story remains central. Drawing on the familiar tale of swans and hapless princes, the production balances athletic performance with warmth and wit. "Grappling with a masterpiece like Swan Lake is terrifying. Everyone knows the Dance of the Cygnets and the 32 fouettés," says Circa Artistic Director Yaron Lifschitz. "Our role is to bring them into circus and into the twenty-first century. Circus is nowhere near as precise or as refined as ballet. It tends to be shaggy, possibly more exciting, but definitely less elegant. We have to dance that line with as much grace as we can muster." said Lifschitz. Andrew Bobeldyk, Executive Manager of Major Venues, said the production offered something unique for Mackay audiences. “Ballet and circus perform exceptionally well in Mackay, and Circa’s distinctive approach makes this production even more special,” he said. “We’re proud to bring Duck Pond to Mackay and strongly encourage audiences to see Circa in action,” Bobeldyk said. Touching, funny and thoroughly entertaining, Duck Pond is ultimately a story about identity and finding your true self - offering Mackay audiences a fresh and unexpected take on a beloved classic. Duck Pond by Circa will perform one show only on 6 May. Tickets are on sale now. **BREAKOUT/HIGHLIGHT BOX FOR THE BELOW** The MECC and Circa present – Duck Pond Wednesday 6 May, 7.30pm MECC Auditorium Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
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What began in 2016 as a local initiative with a clear purpose has developed into one of Mackay’s most established and impactful community fundraising events. The Key Solutions -M&P Services Annual Charity Golf Day was founded to support those in need across the region, and over the past decade it has become a consistent platform for business, community and charity to come together in a shared effort of giving. Since its inception, the event has raised more than $350,000 for local charities, including $75,000+ in 2025 alone, with support directed to 13 local organisations in the most recent year. The growth of the event reflects a sustained and structured commitment to community investment, underpinned by strong participation from sponsors, players and supporters across the region. In 2025 there was $35,000 in prizes and giveaways on the day plus the mega raffle of a $39,000 club house. The event is a clear winner for the biggest event of its kind in North Queensland. Beneficiaries over the years have included a wide range of vital services and organisations such as Chances House, BMA-CQ Rescue, Ronald McDonald House, Community Accommodation Support Agency, Mackay Surf Life Saving Club, Kidney Support Network, Wildlife Rehabilitation Queensland, Mackay Netball Association, Project Pink, Mackay Hospital Foundation, Mackay Community Visitors Association, Trudy Crowley Foundation & Mackay Cutters Change the Game with a main focus of “Funds Stay Local”. The event wouldn’t be possible without the reoccurring support from some well-known local business who identify the benefits of supporting this well-known charitable event with companies like Key Solutions Group, QCCS, MM Electrical Mackay, Blacksmith Jacks, GB Electrical, RIMEX, SCIG, Harvey Norman and Penske all supporting the event year on year. The 10th Annual Charity Golf Day in 2025 marked a significant milestone, both in scale and impact. With more than 100 donated raffle prizes and auction items, alongside experiential packages valued at over $70,000, the event delivered another strong result for the community. A defining moment came when Mr Rod Allen from Inspec Industries won the $39,000 SCIG Clubhouse, before making the immediate decision to donate it directly to the Trudy Crowley Foundation – an act that captured the true meaning of the day. M&P Services has consistently acknowledged that the success of the event is driven by collective community contribution, with enduring support from sponsors, participants, volunteers and the Mackay Golf Club forming the foundation of its continued growth. Looking ahead, preparations are now underway for the 2026 M&P Services / Key Solutions Group Annual Charity Golf Day, scheduled for Friday 14th August 2026 at Mackay Golf Course. The event will once again bring together business and community leaders for a day centred on connection, competition and measurable local impact. With demand increasing each year and the event traditionally reaching capacity through returning supporters, organisers are encouraging expressions of interest via marketing@mpservices.net.au.
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Founded in 1986 as a modest mechanical and panel shop, M&P Services always punched above its weight. Building on a strong reputation, the family business quickly became a trusted name within the local community. Forty years on, it has grown into an enterprise with not just regional, but national impact. What began as a hands-on service operation, built on practical skill, long hours, and a commitment to getting the job done right, has evolved into a diverse enterprise spanning fleet servicing, transport/logistics and, more recently, the manufacturing of portable buildings and homes. Managing director, Max Lamb Jr, explained: “We're making some pretty big waves against national competition, and we've got a lot of unique products that we've developed ourselves which are changing the way portables are getting utilised.” Their biggest success has been in creating mobile wheeled infrastructure, sought out by clients within mining and construction. These ‘mobile crib units’, fully equipped with all modern amenities, have become an integral part of numerous projects across Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia, New Caledonia and Papua New Guinea. The units offer rapid deployment, are easy to transport and offer superior safety, productivity and are especially popular in the current climate providing significant and measurable fuel savings on mining circuits. They cater to industries such as mining, construction, civil and remote area services, providing workers with comfortable, fully functional living and workspaces even in the most challenging environments. Dedicated to staying local, M&P Services manufactures from their purpose built 15m facility in Paget, meeting or exceeding rigorous industry standards. According to Max Jr, the company’s ability to tailor these solutions to the unique demands of clients across various sectors has been key to its ongoing success. As M&P Services expands its operations, it continues to innovate in the field of transportable and modular buildings. Looking back, the company’s success began all the way back in 1986 with Max’s father (Max Snr) and his business partner Peter Brayshaw (dec). “They were just two mates that would hang out on weekends, go fishing and skiing, and have a beer together.” Max Jr said. “At M&P they were performing both mechanical and panel repairs on vehicles, trucks, and trailers. “Fast forward to 40 years, and we're still in the service industry, but the focus has changed.” Though their output has evolved, Max pointed out, the same mentality underpins the mission as it did in 1986. “In the early days of the business, Dad built a good reputation by getting the job done, whether it be loading trucks on weekends, working weekends and all hours of the day or night, as required. “His mentality to just roll your sleeves up and get through the work laid the foundation for what we do now; we just get on with the job, working to a good time frame, and working closely with clients to make sure that they're satisfied.” The strength of M&P’s family values is evidenced by the long-standing staff who have stayed loyal to the business over decades. “The longevity of my employees a makes my job much easier and contributes to easy," Max said. “A large percentage of our staff have been with us more than five and ten years, a few over fifteen and twenty.” Max Jr himself has been with the company since 1992, taking the helm and buying into the business when Mr Brayshaw retired in 1997. “Having worked at the business as an apprentice mechanic from 1992, I've been part of the stunning transformation since," he said. “I still enjoy coming to work every day after 34 years” With his father’s hardworking genes and a vision for design and growth, Max Lamb Jr has led M&P to become one of the largest portable building manufacturers in regional Queensland, but his sights remain firm on the road ahead. What’s a business value you uphold? Giving back to the community. We’re very proud of our annual golf day; we’re holding our eleventh this year. Last year, we raised $75,000 to distribute amongst 13 different local charities. mpservices.net.au
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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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
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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

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

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.
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 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.
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

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

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

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

The third Tiny Homes Project Fundraiser was a huge success last weekend with over 160 people attending a fun and frivolous event held at the Bali Hut on the Whitsunday Sailing Club lawns.
After a week of wild weather, the clouds parted and it was a cool and starry night, perfect for dancing and merriment.
An impressive $32,000 was raised on the evening, and all funds will be put directly into the Tiny Homes Project which is funding four homes for homeless women over 55 in the Whitsundays.
The total project will cost around $700,000 and the team of fundraisers are almost halfway to their target amount.
Whitsunday Regional Council has donated a plot of land in Proserpine and final plans are being put into the design of the homes, with construction expected to start before the end of the year.
The Let’s Do Latin Fundraiser was the biggest money raiser of all events so far and organiser, Sandy Clarke said she was thrilled to be part of another successful night.
“It was the most beautiful night and everyone who attended were just such lovely, giving people,” she said.
The evening kicked-off with an auction which saw over a dozen items up for grabs.
This was followed by raffle before the evening’s entertainment began.
One of Australia’s top 10 Burlesque Dancers, Kelly Ann Doll, wowed the crowd with an evocative, playful, and sexy performance that got the party started.
Afterwards Latin Madness put on a performance and then taught eager participants the basics of Latin dancing.
This got the dance floor packed, and the evening progressed into a party atmosphere with Viva and her Fiesta Band rocking out to classic tracks that everyone enjoyed.
Kandice Adlington won the Best Dressed Female and Paul Skinner won Best Dressed Male.
Organisers Sandy Clarke and Fiona Donnellan. Photo credit: Rachael Smith and Bronte Hodge