Whitsunday children’s authors and illustrators are uniting, with the creation of the Whitsunday Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators Group.

Led by local author and illustrator Sofia Fortunato, the group hopes to reinvigorate children’s reading, foster a supportive community, and run skill development for local authors and aspiring authors.

“My goal is to create a vibrant and collective community of children’s book creators right here in the Whitsundays,” said Sofia.

“We will start our first meeting at the library, and when I proposed the idea to Robyn, the libraries team leader, she was so supportive.

“I want to not only gather the ones who are already authors and illustrators, but also the ones who always dream about being one.”

The group will undertake regular workshops, peer critiquing, and skills building sessions with industry professionals.

“Because we live in regional Queensland it is difficult to access the mainstream publishing houses, as well as professional development,” said Sofia.

“So I hope that a group as such will help others to build their path as professional writers and illustrators.”

Whitsunday Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators Group will collaborate with the community and deliver outreach programs to encourage youth reading and literature, including book readings, workshops, and literacy events for children.

“I believe in the power of books to shape young minds, promote empathy and foster a lifelong love of reading,” Sofia said.

WHAT: Whitsunday Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators Group

WHERE: Cannonvale Library

WHEN: Saturday, July 29, 9.30am to 10.30am

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Local children’s author, Sofia Fortunato is starting The Whitsunday Children’s Book Authors and Illustrators Group to support local authors and illustrators and encourage youth reading. Photo supplied

International sell-out comedian Jenny Wynter, infamous for her side-splitting cabaret, is coming to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) this July.

As part of the PEC Morning Melodies, Jenny Wynter is making a guest appearance, bringing her international show “By Request” with her.

Developed to be completely impromptu and derived from suggestions from an onstage fishbowl which the audience is invited to fill, this show is one that will never be repeated.

The routine is 100 per cent made up on the spot by this internationally award-winning comic who brings audiences a mind-blowing collection of songs, stories and comedy.

“I can’t wait to share this show with audiences across Queensland again and see what they come up with!” she said.

“After the pandemic lockdowns I’ll never take live performance for granted again.

“This show is kind of poetic at this point, in the sense that it literally cannot exist without the audience, namely because they help create it!

“My favourite thing in the world – both as a performer and as an audience member – is the magic that happens when the performance goes off script.

“This show is entirely that in that there is no script.

“Yes, that’s nerve-wracking, but I firmly believe that the scary zone is where the amazing stuff can happen.

“I love creating something with an audience that is purely for them, never to be repeated and only works in that exact room at that exact time. It’s magic!”

WHAT: Jenny Wynter’s “By Request”

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

WHEN: Thursday, July 20, 11am to 12pm

TICKETS: Proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

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Comedian Jenny Wynter is throwing away the script for an impromptu performance. Photo supplied

Whitsunday local and author of eight novels, Richard Evans, has released his most recent novel, just in time for Men’s Health Week, June 12 to 18.

Richards’ novel, titled Selfish Ambitions, follows Ryan Kennedy, the deputy prime minister of Australia, as he juggles his powerful position and differing demands in his professional and personal life.

Readers follow his journey as he tries to meet the expectations of the incredibly influential women in his life, including his wife, his lover, his daughter, and even the prime minister.

Selfish Ambition speaks about a powerful man’s regret and how one day can change the entire outcome of your life.

“A lot of blokes tend to wonder about their past, wondering if they made the right decision,” Richard explained.

The novel is inspired by Richard’s own political journey, being a former federal member of parliament in the 1990s, and understanding the nature of the role and its impact on mental health.

Richard sets out to illuminate the emotional side of politics and being a man in political power, while exploring themes of regret, trueness, passion, and relevance.

“This novel gives the view of how difficult it is to be a member of parliament,” said Richard.

“It exposes the challenges of being under constant pressure, always under stress.”

This second chance romance is touching and relatable for readers, no matter their profession, creating a long-lasting impression of the key values of men’s mental health and professionalism.

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Richard Evans, Whitsunday author, releases eighth novel, speaking on men’s mental health. Photo supplied

Airlie Beach Hotel is setting the weekend off right, welcoming Dancing in the Shadows of Motown back on Saturday and Sunday June 1 and 2.

Legends in the industry, Dancing in the Shadows of Motown knows how to swoon and sway a crowd and have been making waves for fans of Motown tunes.

Reaching out with a nine-piece band, Motown intimately recreate legends in the industry, including The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops, The Jackson Five, Junior Walker and Martha and The Vandellas, with all the very best Motown classics and hits.

This band knows how to keep the crowd entertained, having sold out numerous venues to eager and excited audiences, leaving everyone wanting to know what becomes of the broken hearted these days.

With internationally acclaimed artists, including Franchesca Appolis’s vocals, made infamous through The Starlettes and Harlem Knights, Patou Powell, the double ARIA Winner with the Melbourne Ska Orchestra, and Kimi Tupaea from the Doobies/Eagles Show and Barry Lead Band.

That is only a snapshot of the all-star cast that Dancing in the Shadows of Motown bring with them, on this fantastic tribute to classic young America and modern soul.

This is why the completely free Airlie Beach Hotel performances are an absolute win for locals and tourists alike, showcasing the very best of national and international sounds in our very own backyard.

This ‘Signed, Sealed, and Delivered’ hit production will leave you wanting more.

We aren’t ‘Too Proud to Beg’ for more from this classic American Motown and soul band, bringing the best tunes that will have you ‘Dancing in the Streets’.

There isn’t a ‘Mountain High Enough’ to keep us away from checking this one out at the Airlie Beach Hotel.

“We authentically recreate the dynamic performances and hits of many Motown artists and our costumes are of the same style as the original artists and we boast the best vocal section in the country presenting beautiful harmonies,” said Craig Bodinnar, bassist of the group.

“We guarantee the spirit heart and soul to recreate the Motown legacy,”

Dancing in the Shadows of Motown won’t ‘Stop in the Name of Love’ with this one, being sure to hit every note.

“The audience will be transformed and go back to relive their favourite songs that bring back happy memories,” said Craig.

“It’s an uplifting and feeling show for all ages.”

This is not a show to miss; the sounds of young America and the soul of modern music cruises the audience through the weekend.

WHAT: Dancing in the Shadows of Motown

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday, July 1, and Sunday July 2, from 2pm to 5.30pm

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A nine-piece band backs this iconic Motown production

With the sounds of Stevie Wonder, Fontella Bass, and The Jackson Five – plus so much more – this Motown show is not one to miss

Cruise through the weekend with the sounds of Motown. Photos supplied

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A storyline filled with heart and intimate love, The Flash is set to pull on heart strings.

Ezra Miller reprises his role as Barry Allen in this DC Universe film, where he is set on time travelling to save his mother in the past, thus saving his father and himself from immeasurable heartache and pain.

He does so, going against the advice of his universe’s Batman – portrayed by Ben Affleck – and manages to skip entire time lines, inadvertently meeting himself at 18-years-old, with two living parents and a totally different life.

In this universe, meta humans don’t exist, Original Barry meets a new Batman – this one played by Michael Keaton and newcomer Super Girl, played by Sasha Calle - in order to fight classic Superman villain, General Zod.

Audiences are given the opportunity to see much loved character Barry learn and grow, in two distinct ways.

Original Barry must grow up, come into his responsibility of being a super hero, while New Barry is given the space to be silly and idiotic, something Original Barry missed out on.

New Barry also is given the opportunity to enter the Speed Force, with some assistance from Original Barry.

This CGI blockbuster is full of non-stop action and fantastic one-liners. It also provokes thoughts on losing a loved one and the implications that has on one’s life.

Having the two Barry’s side by side lends itself to an interesting comparison, of ethics and of compassion.

If you could go back in time, and save your mother from being murdered and your father for being found guilty, would you? Of course you would!

This exciting new chapter to the DC Universe is looking hopeful, perhaps even able to rival the massive Marvel universe with its own charm and wit.

The Flash is currently showing at Bowen Cinema and will be released at Proserpine Cinema Thursday June 29.

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Barry Allen joins hands with an alternate version of himself, a new Batman and Super Girl to take on a new threat

The iconic Immerse art installation at this year’s Cruise Whitsunday Great Barrier Reef Festival is reaching new heights with the incorporation of a classical composition to provide a soundtrack to the artwork at its opening on the Saturday night.

The Immerse installation initiative, first delivered in 2021, is the brainchild of creative director and Great Barrier Reef Festival Chairperson Margie Murphy, who wanted to create a reef-inspired visual focus for the event.

For the first time, in 2023 the installation will include a composed musical element, inviting musicians aged 15 and over who play a classical instrument to perform under the guidance of Brisbane-based contemporary composer Corrina Bonshek.

‘Call from the Deep’ will be a purpose-created piece featuring stunning recordings of Eastern Humpback Whales and performed by talented regional youth.

Margie Murphy said she was thrilled to be bringing another element to the installation.

“This will be a special performance on the Saturday evening of the festival, which will also provide a soundtrack for the installation,” she said.

“There are so many parts of our community involved in the Immerse 2023 project, and I can’t wait to see them all come together.”

The project recreates the Reef with projected animations, and sculptures using recycled materials created by local and visiting artists and the community.

Free community workshops are scheduled in June and July for members of the public to create corals and fish to be incorporated into the installation.

Funded through the Queensland Arts Showcase Program, Immerse 2023 will be delivered by award-winning multi-media artists Margaret Burgess and Donna Maree Robinson and features works by local artists Brigitte Peel, Liz Knight, Anita Pender, and Joan Hunter.

Lead sculpture artist Margaret Burgess said she was excited to be working on the Immerse installation again.

“This project ticks all my boxes; community building, creative, inclusive, educational and it creates environmental awareness and conversations about our Great Barrier Reef,” Mrs Burgess said.

Tourism Whitsundays Chief Executive Officer, Rick Hamilton is excited for the Immerse 2023 installation.

“It is hugely encouraging to have the State Government support the Immerse installation, again, this year,” he said.

“The opportunities the funding opens up for the festival organisers is significant; and it also provides the community with the opportunity to get involved and create their piece of the Great Barrier Reef.

“The Immerse installation brings the Great Barrier Reef out of the water and into the centre of the festival, where kids and adults alike are awed by the almost life-size sculptures hanging from the fig tree.

“Using recycled materials is an important part element of Immerse and one that fits with the values of the Festival and The Whitsundays.”

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Great Barrier Reef Festival Chairperson Margie Murphy and lead sculpture artist Margaret Burgess. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

Two artists prepare for last year’s Immerse Installation

The coral reef creations are a central theme to the artwork

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Families and children of the Whitsundays have a new opportunity for adventure right at their fingertips thanks to the new Wattlewood Nature Play activity program which is inspired by Forest Schools.

Giving kids the opportunity to connect with our region's incredible outdoors while growing as learners, Wattlewood Nature Play offers programs designed to engage children in our natural environment while building their confidence and problem-solving skills, while giving them a sense of belonging and resilience.

Wattlewood’s programs have received an incredibly positive response from parents of the Whitsundays, with many children engaging with activities such as Playgroup and Bush Kinder. The child-led programs help children gain independence, grow their confidence, expand their problem-solving skills, and make new friends.

The new School Holiday Program running this June/July is now open for families to secure their spots. Children will enjoy a range of in activities such as cubby building, muddy play, nature challenges, knot tying and more, with the support and encouragement of experienced primary school teachers.

“Wattlewood’s new School Holiday Program has been designed to help children grow in the most natural way possible, in the great outdoors at their own pace,” says owner and educator Molly Brown.

Molly has personally curated these exciting and innovative programs drawing on her knowledge as an experienced local primary school teacher who is passionate about the contexts in which children learn and develop independent resilience.

Using her experience teaching in schools and bush school programs throughout Queensland and Tasmania, Molly has developed a passion for nature-led learning which she infuses into every facet of Wattlewood Nature Play.

Through the firsthand experience of seeing kids thrive learning outside of the classroom setting, she is excited to offer this first of its kind opportunity to the families of the Whitsundays.

"The Whitsundays are an ideal location for nature play, we are surrounded by tropical national parks, eucalyptus forests, blue water and coral reefs, but not all families have the time or opportunities to explore as they would like,” said Molly.

“Wattlewood creates the opportunity for children to be able to access their incredible backyard here in the Whitsundays and explore it with a qualified educator who will foster their love for learning, encourage healthy risk taking and develop their resilience.

“Learning is so much more than four walls and Wattlewood is excited to give children freedom to be themselves, explore, create, use their imaginations, problem solve and learn through their environment.”

Little Explorers Playgroup

Ages 0 – 5 years

This program is designed to create connection and belonging through play and self-directed education.

Tutoring Sessions

All ages

Small Group tutoring encourages connection, creativity and curiosity while aligning with curriculum. These sessions allow for children, to learn, share their knowledge, build confidence, and solve problems.

Education Consults

All ages

Offering Wattlewood’s expertise in education to provide support to families and children, to help them grow. With many alternative schooling options available, Wattlewood is here to provide everything from lesson plans to motivating activities and monthly check-ins.

Nature Nurture’s Program

7 - 12 years old

Opportunities for learning, connecting, confidence building and problem solving. This program is for children who may need some extra support for their emotional and social wellbeing.

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GIVEAWAY!

Win a school holiday session valued at $110!

To enter, sign up to the mailing list, like or comment on the post and share to your story!

DISCOUNT CODE currently running for new bookings ‘ADVENTUREAWAITS.’

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Children embrace the simplicity of the outdoors at Wattlewood Nature Play

Handcrafting from nature is one of the many activities children experience

Molly Brown, founder and educator at Wattlewood Nature Play

Now is the time for the thrill of a lifetime, with Airtime FMX bringing the best of high-octane heights and motocross to Show Whitsunday this Friday and Saturday.

Pushing the limits of gravity, the Airtime FMX Motocross boys have been in the business for 23 years, performing at major events nationally, with the Show Whitsunday performance not an event to miss.

These family-friendly thrills will leave the audience wanting more, with short but punchy shows, where all the action is revved up and fast-paced.

One of the best acts will involve launching the stunt drivers 15 metres into the air, showcasing all their skills, including backflips, handstands, and the holy grab and ruler.

Watch as the motorbikes launch from 23 metre take-off steel ramp, flying through the air and landing on the Airtime FMX truck.

“The audiences can expect big backflip tricks, and all the crazy tricks from tv and the movies,” said Brad Burch, director of Airtime FMX.

With a clear team of professional and experienced riders, this show is set to impress and astound the audience.

There is Brad, on the crew since 2009, Kain Saul, a fan favourite for his tricks, and young gun Ben Richards, impressing despite his age, with infamous Tommy G working the microphone.

“Breathless is the best word to describe it.”

Airtime FMX is Performing

Friday

12pm

2.30pm – Meet and Greet

7pm

Saturday

12pm

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Massive heights with the Airtime FMX Motocross team this Show Whitsunday. Photo supplied

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Steeped in a rich history of townspeople wanting to show off the very best of their homemade goods and produce, the classic regional Australian show has become a landmark on the calendar.

It is a special day to spend with friends and family, with entries into the competition categories displayed for all, the boisterous noise of the wood chop and the screams of thrill seekers metres high in the air on the fantastic rides overlaid with the smells of cooking dagwood dogs and fairy floss.

Now in it’s 110th year, the Show Whitsunday is a much-loved event on the Whitsundays calendar, holding the very best of regional performances with fun flare of modern family entertainment.

Donna Rogers, President of the Show Whitsunday committee is excited for the 110th year of the show.

“The Show always has something for everyone, from the five-year-old fascinated with dinosaurs, to the teenagers who craves adrenalin rush on the Graviton or Hurricane, for the adults is the competitions, exhibits and ringside entertainment; it truly is fun for the entire family.”

Wood Chop

The history of the woodchop has humble beginnings, originating in Tasmania in 1870 as a bet between two men.

Now a firm fixture in almost every regional show, the woodchop shows the strength and tenacity of the woodchopping community.

Show Whitsunday is no different, with locals bringing their sharpest axes, their best muscles, and their hardened skills to show the wood absolutely no mercy, all the while entertaining the flocking audience which is always attracted to the exciting event.

Equestrian

The horse skills of competitors are tested with the equestrian events at Show Whitsunday, with dressage, camp drafting and show jumping attracting massive crowds into the grandstands.

Being poised and dedicated, the equestrian events bring out the best in both horse and rider, as they showcase their skills to the judges and the audience.

Regional equestrian shows often act as a gateway for riders to practice their sport in a professional setting, while garnering a name for themselves and their horse.

Cane

A special event for Show Whitsunday, the Cane Exhibition and Competition highlights the best of the cane industry local to the Whitsundays, and with the introduction of the new Proserpine Young Farmers’ Trophy, to recognise the efforts of young farmers, there are plenty of ways to win big.

Other categories include stalk plant cane, heaviest stalk, best display of General Milling Cane, and highest quantity of Commercial Cane Sugar in six stalks of ratoon cane.

For locals and for visitors, the cane exhibit is a fantastic display of the thriving local sugar cane industry, which is a staple for the area.

Entertainment

Where family fun meets traditional regional Australia, the thrill seekers can experience the very best of show rides, including the fan favourite Big Whizzer, the Cliff Hanger, Tornado, and the Graviton.

For those not seeking the adrenaline rush, try your hand at the dodgem cars and the big slide.

Make sure to keep an eye out for the lurking dinosaurs, that are sure to escape from the exciting Dinosaur Park.

Melvilles Baby Animal Petting Farm is making another appearance, with chickens, ducklings, ponies, alpacas, goats, and geese (plus so much more), with the opportunity for a snuggle and a cuddle with the cute creatures.

No matter what, there is something for everyone at Show Whitsunday.

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Perfect for novice and experienced fisherman, the Berkley Travelling Fishing Show and Super Tank brings you the very best of the newest lures and fishing practices.

The mega 12-metre-long, four-metre-high tank, holding 14 thousand litres of water, is the centre stage for the educational program.

Demonstrated by seasoned fishing professional Michael Cooke, and his 20 live Barramundi in the tank, audiences will see a live and in person lure and bait fishing workshop from the top of the tank.

“This is a show for the whole family, even non-fishing people, and we don’t use any hooks,” Michael said.

“The presentations include catch and release techniques, mastering lures and gear tips for the first timers.

“The team will also demonstrate how the many different types of fish react to different lures and techniques used by many of today’s top anglers.”

Running throughout the day, on the hour from 10am, Michael’s demonstrations are educational, thrilling, entertaining, and entirely free during Show Whitsunday.

There is also the chance to ask questions to Michael, and he is always willing to take pointers and learn new techniques from the crowd.

“I’ve done a heap of fishing, but I’m always happy to listen and learn something as well.”

The Super Tank is the largest travelling fish tank and is almost entirely Perspex, allowing the audience and visitors to get the best look at the lures, as well as just get a good look at barramundi in action.

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The Super Tank is the largest travelling fish tank and is almost entirely Perspex. Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Raiders travelled to Mackay on Saturday to take on Slade Point at home, last time these teams met, it was a tight match up across the field.

Slade Point are always tough at home and the Raiders were expecting nothing less.

With a slightly earlier kick off time, the men in green were keen for a tight game.

The Raiders started off a little slow but soon started to gain momentum, defence was on point and the penalty count was down which gave the men in green a chance to use the ball.

With two converted tries and a penalty under their belt the Raiders had a lead of 17-5 at half time, the men in green needed to get more points on the board to maintain the number one spot on the MRU ladder.

They also needed to improve their completion rate and ball handling skills.

As per usual the bench provided a positive impact on the team and with the breeze at their back they managed to put on another converted try and two penalties to finish the game 30-10.

With only three games left in the 2023 competition and the leader board as close as it is, the men in green need to be at the top of their game to take on Moranbah Bulls at home this coming Saturday.

This will be another tough game for the Raiders and a game the guys are looking forward too.

Best on ground for the Raiders against Slade Point were Dylan Hoffmann 1pt, Waikato Nepia-Katipa 2pts and 3pts went to young powerhouse Tristian Sainsbury.

Contributed with thanks to Craig Spence.

Manaia Hauiti chopping and Waikato Nepia- Katipa wrapping the ball. Photo credit: Hanny Spence

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Mackay Fame Talent School’s production of the iconic Disney musical The Lion King is right around the corner and represents a rare and fantastic opportunity for the children of Mackay.

It’s the first time a full-scale Disney Junior production has been staged in Mackay and will be entirely cast, acted and performed by young Mackay talent.

“It’s a very holistic artistic experience for the children that culminates in a full-scale, musical production,” Mackay Fame Talent School Principal Dolly Louw said.

“I encourage the community to come and support the performance as the children have put in a lot of hard work and effort to make it a success.”

Meet some of the talented local cast below.

Dustin Persson – Young Simba

School: St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School

Favourite Lion King song: ‘I Just Can’t Wait to Be King’ because I get to sing it.

Favourite Disney movie: The Lion King. I’ve seen it 100 times.

Favourite actor/singer/inspiration: Elton John because he’s really good at piano and singing and I want to be like him. He also wrote the music for The Lion King.

What do you love about being in the Lion King? Acting and singing and getting to play Young Simba.

Harry Hayes – Big Simba

School: Catherine McAuley College

Favourite Lion King song: ‘Hakuna Matata’

Favourite Disney movie: Aladdin

Favourite actor/singer/inspiration: Chris Hemsworth

What do you love about being in the Lion King? I like musical theatre.

Charlotte Finch – Zazu

School: St Francis Xavier Catholic Primary School

Favourite Lion King song: ‘I Just Can’t Wait to Be King’

Favourite Disney movie: Aladdin

Favourite actor/singer/inspiration: Jennifer Aniston and Drew Barrymore

What do you love about being in the Lion King? I love acting and performing on stage.

Edward Bailey – Scar

School: Whitsunday Anglican School

Favourite Lion King song: ‘Be Prepared’

Favourite Disney movie: Star Wars Episode 7

Favourite actor/singer/inspiration: Ozzy Osbourne

What do you love about being in the Lion King? I enjoy the singing and social elements.

WHAT: Fame Talent School Presents The Lion King Junior

WHEN: Sunday, June 18 at 10:00am

WHERE: The MECC

TICKETS: www.themecc.com.au

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Being stuck without a car is a total pain in the you know what, and it happened to me recently. Even worse, it was far from home.

On a recent gymnastics trip to Townsville, my car conked out in a bad way going from the hotel to the competition. After waiting for RACQ for an hour for a repairman, and then another 3 hours for a tow, I missed my daughter’s whole competition. Such was my timing that I arrived in an Uber as they were walking out the front door.

Lesson learnt here, have your car breakdown at an intersection, because if you’re safely parked up, you’ll get bumped down the list.

The next few days were just tricky to negotiate, stuck in Townsville while the family got a lift home, and nothing was particularly close by in walking distance. Plus, I didn’t want to walk far because after only planning a two day trip, I had limited clothes to sweat in anyway.

Inconvenience is far underrated. When you’re not exposed to it you don’t think about it, it never bothers you. But when inconvenience is with you all day, and you know it will be there the next day, and the one after that, it starts to get really annoying.

Being stuck without a car and a few days away from the family was the definite downside. The only upside about this whole episode was the Sunday afternoon in Townsville the Cowboys played the Storm, so I went to that game to kill a few hours, and the Cowboys smashed them. The other more surprising upside of the trip was how good the train is from Townsville to Mackay. Much cheaper than a plane, a little longer than a car ride, but far more comfortable with giant seats and heaps of leg room, even in economy, and access to the bar and café. I give the train trip from Townsville to Mackay a big tick.  

Scotty

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Hold on to your beer bellies, folks, because the Mackay and Whitsundays region recently witnessed a showdown like no other—the epic "Best Dad Bods" competition, brought to you by Star 101.9 Mackay radio station. This legendary event was sparked by a viral swimming video of none other than the radio station’s breakfast show host Scotty, catching the attention of his co- host, Kaley.

After intense public scrutiny, we finally have our winners! Let's give a roaring round of applause to Nathan, Benny, and Brendan—these fearless warriors captured the hearts of listeners, earning the prestigious title of the region's most glorious dad bods. As a testament to their triumph, these Kings have been bestowed with a $100 Dan Murphy's voucher and an exclusive double pass for their partners to experience the Sydney Hotshots on June 24th.

In this very publication, we present to you the winners and a selection of contestants, thanks to the collaboration between Mackay Life Editor Amanda Wright and Star’s Kaley. They recognised the importance of celebrating the unsung heroes in our community and showcasing their irresistible charm.

This competition wasn't just about admiring those perfect paunches—it was about honouring the remarkable qualities these men possess. They prioritise quality time with their families over pumping iron at the gym, radiating confidence, approachability, and an unwavering love for their loved ones.

Amanda said, "There's an inexplicable allure to someone who radiates happiness and self-assurance, and these dad bods have it in abundance!"

And as Kaley added, "These champions have proven that a dad bod can be a symbol of confidence, approachability, and, most importantly, breaking free from societal expectations. They inspire us to embrace our authentic selves!"

The Mackay and Whitsundays' Best Dad Bods competition received an overwhelming response, with a glorious array of contenders proudly displaying their physiques. Listeners eagerly cast their votes, flooding the radio station's Facebook page with likes and love on the competition posts.

We learned that when it comes to the dad bod lifestyle, there are two key elements that reign supreme: the sacred beer diet and the legendary mastery of barbecue tongs. A good brew is the backbone of every dad bod's diet, fuelling their epic adventures and providing the perfect excuse to gather with friends. And let's not forget the artistry of wielding those barbecue tongs like a seasoned pro. Dad bods are known for their innate ability to navigate a sizzling grill, snaring the juiciest snags and most mouth-watering steaks - for their own pleasure, of course.

So, let's raise our beer mugs and give a thunderous cheer to Nathan, Benny, Brendan, and all the incredible contestants who fearlessly flaunted their dad bods. Cheers to the dad bod revolution, where love handles reign supreme!

Meet the Dads!

Scott van der Linden

Age: 48

Nickname: Scotty

Occupation: Radio announcer at Star 101.9

Dad status: Dad of two

Dad-isms: Plays cricket at an average level and is known for half doing jobs around home.

Advice for anyone growing into a “dad bod”: “Anyone who’s let themselves go or is losing their hair, embrace it!”

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Nathan Douglass

Age: 41

Nickname: Napkin

Occupation: Truck driver

Dad status: Dad of four

Dad-isms: Bald, bit of a belly, drives a ute and likes to have a drink on the weekend.

Advice for anyone growing into a “dad bod”: “Don’t let it happen and exercise.”

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Ben Muscat

Age: 31

Nickname: Benny

Occupation: Diesel fitter

Dad status: dad to one 18-month-old boy and a “shit load” of farm animals

Dad-isms: poor fashion choices – “crocs are acceptable for everywhere”.

Advice for anyone growing into a “dad bod”: “Just accept it, let it happen and be happy. Put happiness before anything. Spend time with the kids more than you spend on the treadmill.”

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Brendan Kapitzke

Age: 36

Occupation: Works underground in the mines

Dad status: Dad to two kids

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Images; Barry, David, Dion, Gavin, Jason, John, Matthew, Mitch, Murray, Quintin

After finishing as a runner-up in last year’s Miss Grand Australia (MGA), Airlie Beach model Paitin Powell is preparing for another campaign as a National Finalist in the 2023 pageant.

A former student of Mackay’s Brooke Lee Modelling & Deportment School, Ms Powell said MGA is so much more than a pageant.

“The program encourages self-development, women empowerment and it’s also a platform that allows young Australian women to openly speak their minds about issues that concern them,” she said.

Ms Powell has lived in north Queensland her whole life, her mother driving her from Airlie Beach to Mackay every couple of weeks to attend classes.

Participating in pageantry since the age of 15, she entered her first MGA last year and believes it’s an organisation that she can align with.

Ms Powell has since become an Airlie Beach-based teacher at Brooke Lee Modelling & Deportment School and hopes to inspire young people following the same journey as her.

“Growing up in rural areas of north Queensland, I’ve always felt that opportunity for me didn’t come as easy, especially in the modelling industry,” she said.

“When I found the pageant system, I found that it was a way of me being able to follow my dreams and achieve my goals.

“My goal coming into MGA is to be an inspiration for young girls and boys who have a similar upbringing to me and have grown up in other rural areas of Australia and prove to them that it doesn’t really matter where you come from, where you grew up or what makes you different; if you have a goal or a dream in life and you work hard for it, you can achieve anything.”

MGA advocates for Destiny Rescue, an organisation that raises funds for the support and rehabilitation of victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

Last year, Ms Powell raised $2,500 and she has already raised $4,200 this year.

“To me, a beauty pageant is about your advocacy, it’s about what you stand for, it’s about making a difference in your community, your country, worldwide,” she said.

Ms Powell’s fundraising efforts will continue leading up to the pageant as she hosts sausage sizzles at Bunnings Cannonvale on June 18 and July 8.

She will then travel to Melbourne for MGA from July 12-15.

Scan the QR code to learn more about Ms Powell’s mission and to donate.

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Airlie Beach model Paitin Powell will return to Miss Grand Australia in July after finishing as a runner-up in last year’s pageant. Photo supplied

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