With over 3000 attendees at the Mackay Seniors Expo 2023, this year's event was full of vital information for our beloved elder community.

The expo featured an array of exhibitors, including those in health and wellness, entertainment, emergency services, food vendors, and more.

Eventgoers had the opportunity to grab some goodies from various agencies and small businesses, as well as enjoy a social outing with friends and family.

Relive the Seniors Expo 2023 through these delightful social snapshots; and see you again next year!

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Photo credit: Sinead Porter

Glenice Ellis and Michelle Sparkes

Ron and Lorna Bowers, Paul and Nerell Schmidtke

Ted and Beverley Farrell

Don and Barbara Hargreaves

Peter Williams and Jan Lansbury

Warren and Shirley Sturgeon, Mackay City Bowls Club

Teresa and Denise, Mackay Fibre Arts Association Inc.

Kerry Casey, Sandra Doyle and Ian Hamilton, With One Voice Choir

Gary and Junita Alonglord

Jack and Ray

Marian, Joan, Pam & Julene, Sew Create Donate Mackay

President Robyn and Member Colin, Mackay Combined Probus Club

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It all started 36 years ago for Brian Little, when the previous Proserpine Fire Captain approached him at his Ford dealership and asked if he wanted to join and become an auxiliary firefighter.

At the time, the Proserpine Fire Station was stationed in the heart of Proserpine, on Main Street, with Brian’s dealership right next door, meaning in the case of an emergency, Brian could just jump away from his desk at a moment’s notice and help save lives.

Since then, the Fire Station has moved to a purpose-built facility in Hinschen Road, which allows the team of 18 to operate most effectively, answering calls as needed.

“There were times when I was working and I’d get the call, drop everything and attend the scene,” Brian explained.

“We average four to five phone calls a week, with about 65 per cent of those being road accidents on the highway.”

Brian has recently eased into retirement but has stuck on as an auxiliary firefighter.

But why does he do it?

“Because we are helping people during one of the most traumatic experiences ever, when we can only make things better.

“We don’t do this for the money, we do this because we care for our community and the people in it.”

New recruits simply undergo three weekend training sessions, then seven days of offsite training.

From there, they have 12 months to receive further certifications including their truck license, road safety, and hazard training, before they are fully qualified.

Additionally, each fire fighter has two-hours of training every Wednesday, to ensure up to date and consistent knowledge and training.

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Brian Little signed on to be an auxiliary fire fighter 36 years ago and has never looked back. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

It was another wonderful weekend in Proserpine, with the Proserpine Community Markets being another big hit.

“It was brilliant,” Market Coordinator Tarnia Patton said.

“The Wildlife Encounter was a big draw card for kids, and it was great to see families out and about in the community.

“The community markets always have such a good atmosphere around them.

“No matter what, we all come together and help each other. The community spirit is great.”

The community fundraiser of this spring market was for local Dannielle Hanns, who is undertaking the mammoth job of running 60 kilometres throughout October with Red Socks Run and raising support for Kidney Health.

On average, people suffering with kidney disease spend 60 hours a month on dialysis, a lifesaving procedure that cleans their blood.

Danielle Hanns is undertaking this challenge to raise awareness of the disease, having lost her sister to kidney disease.

As of the date of printing, Danielle has raised $1,582, $451 of which was gathered from the Proserpine Community Market.

“It was fantastic to raise that figure for Dannielle and her great work,” Tarnia explained.

The last Proserpine Community Market for 2023 will be the massive Christmas extravaganza, on Sunday December 10, with Tarnia already at capacity for stallholders.

“There is always such a good variety, with new stalls and regulars coming out with new products and selections to peruse,” said Tarnia.

“I suggest that you get in early, beat the heat and before all the good things are gone.”

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Wildlife Encounters adding to the fun and excitement of the Proserpine Community Markets. Photo credit: Tarnia Patton

For over 15 years, the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays has been constructing Clean Birthing Kits, to send throughout Asia, Africa, the Pacific, and the Caribbean, to give hospitals and mothers clean and sterile equipment to safely deliver their children.

In recent times, Zonta has collaborated with local schools to aid in their efforts and last week St Catherine’s Catholic College completed construction of 200 birthing kits.

Pam Harrison is a life member of Zonta Club of the Whitsundays and she worked closely with the students to make the kits.

“The students are beautiful kids. We just had so much fun!” she said.

“This is a lovely project, and it’s great for us to meet them and for them to help us in this cause.”

The outreach was organised by the school’s Z Club, who advocate for women’s health, a stop to domestic violence, and other public outreach issues.

“This is about being aware and raising awareness of issues that relate specifically to young women, and in a wider community sense, of what we can do to achieve equity and fairness,” explained the Z Club Teacher Liaison Shantae Ryle.

With over 20 students, from Year 8 to Year 12, it was a simple task to complete all 200 kits in less than two hours.

Z Club President and St Catherine’s Year 12 student Elizabeth Gill explained that the club also raise funds for the kits, alleviating some of the financial cost for Zonta.

“Normally, we do a big fundraiser, and we’ve got a big trivia night planed for next year, to help raise funds for the items used in the kits,” Elizabeth said.

St Catherine’s Principal Luke Thomson thanked the ladies of Zonta for coming in and working with students.

"This is a great service and learning opportunity for our students to give back to such a worthy cause,” he said.

“We thank the Whitsunday Zonta volunteers for coming in and working with our students over the past seven years."

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Year 8 to 12 St Catherine’s Catholic College students with the ladies of Zonta Whitsundays completing 200 clean birthing kits. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Review By Bronte Hodge

An accomplishment and an evening of enjoyment, the students of Whitsunday Christian College should be proud of the professional production they hosted last weekend.

The calibre of the performances, the professionalism of the students, and the awe of the audience culminated into a specular night.

As the nerves shifted away, and the excitement of being on stage, underneath the big lights, with loved ones in the audience grew, this was a performance of greatness.

There was Jade Shepherd-Smith as Dorothy, a role she welcomed with open arms.

Having only performed briefly in the school’s previous play, Dorothy was a new bigger challenge, one that Jade rose to fantastically, with her endearing nature.

Beside her was an array of quirky friendly characters.

Hagen Martinez plays the cowardly Lion with a performance that sells out the show. Boastful yet meek, Hagen perfectly accentuates Jade’s performance.

Lovable and dedicated, Hagen did well to bring Lion to light, creating a memorable performance on stage.  

The next of the lead ensemble is Oliver Steven as Tin Man, wishing for a heart that has the audience clutching theirs.

Delivering a performance like no other, the audience couldn’t help but wish that his dreams of getting a heart come true.

Shannon Matthews is Scarecrow, the loveable one who always seems to be mixed up in mishaps.

Even dedicating himself to a slight American accent, Shannon embodied Scarecrow throughout the entire play.

And we can’t forget the elegant Glinda the good witch, played by Bella Barker. Poignant and poised, Bella was made for this role. The soft and subtle touches of her on stage characterisation blended seamlessly with her co-stars.

Against this crew is the Wicked Witch, played to perfection by Olivia Braddock. Having the dreaded cackle down pat, her performance was legendary. The scope of this young lady is impressive, perfectly articulating the villainous nature of the Wicked Witch and her devilish ways.

Lachlan Riley, an actor of many talents took on five character roles and assisted all lead characters in pulling it altogether both on stage and off. A true all-rounder who encapsulates the essence of team.

Who can forget the man himself, The Wizard of Oz embodied by Hunter Playford. Although only in Year 7, Hunter played a remarkable role as the wise wizard portraying maturity, wit, and charm.

With imaginative storytelling, fantastic costuming, and dedication to the theatre art, this was an incredibly professional and intimate production. With almost every child having their own headset, and each voice distinct and resounding, all chorus musical pieces fantastic, with the enthusiastic singing of each student.

It was particularly warming to see one dad in the front row whip out his phone to capture his little one on stage or see little Munchkins wave to their families before the music starts for their dance, wearing their colourful and creative flower outfits.

It is clear that in the midst of Whitsunday Christian College, there are numerous future theatrical stars, that we should be ready to witness of the big screen.

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Whitsunday Christian College students showcasing their theatrical prowess on the big stage. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

The eight winners of the national Passport To Airlie competition have now been announced following the final heat which took place in Mackay over the weekend.

Gravy Train (Darwin), The Robert Cini Band (Cairns), The Wild Sky (Mackay), Staremaster (Sunshine Coast), Funk Knuckle (Brisbane), Venus Fly Trap (Byron Bay), Avalanche (Newcastle) and Ally Row (Melbourne) managed to beat 300 other musical acts from around the country to claim their spot.

The Passport To Airlie final will be held on the main-stage in the big-top tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on Thursday, November 9 and the whole family are invited to come along and listen to these quality aspiring musicians perform.

At just $10 entry or free for three-day ticket holders, this event is open to under 18s as well and is a great way for local youth to experience festival vibes and immerse themselves in musical culture.

The evening will also set the stage for what is expected to be a fantastic weekend of music.

Adding to the excitement will be Perry Street Park, last year's winners, who will headline the evening, fresh off the back from supporting The Superjesus on part of their national tour.

These talented musicians understand first-hand what it is like to be part of Passport To Airlie.

"I’ve personally been a part of Passport To Airlie twice,” said front-man Benny.

“Once as a solo project in 2019 and in 2022 with Perry Street Park.

“Passport To Airlie gives up and coming bands from all around Australia the opportunity to perform at a renowned festival on the big stage in front of industry and music lovers!

“Winning this in 2022 has led to unbelievable opportunities for Perry Street Park including touring with The Superjesus and gave us a lot of credit and proof for the work we were putting in."

For more information or for tickets to the 2023 festival from November 9-12, visit www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au, and follow @airliebeachfestivalofmusic on Facebook and Instagram.

WHAT: Passport To Airlie National Showcase Final

WHERE: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Main-stage

Whitsunday Sailing Club

WHEN: Thursday, November 9 from 6pm

TICKETS: $10

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WHAT: Airlie Beach Festival of Music

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club and 14 local venues

WHEN: 9 – 12 November

TICKETS: www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

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Perry Street Park won last years’ Passport To Airlie and will be performing on the main-stage at this years’ Airlie Beach Festival of Music. Photos supplied

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Airlie Beach Hotel Hosts Reckless

Born from the love of Aussie classics, the Reckless Tribute embodies the warmth of summer, the eclectic feeling of a cool beer after a hard day’s work, and the taste of sweat on your lips.

No one knows this feeling better than Reckless front man Marco Sinni, who created the tribute band more than five years.

“Every member of the band is an Aussie Crawl fan, that’s the reason why we started the band,” Marco explained.

However, for Marco, performing Aussie Crawl has been a massive effort, having to retrain and stretch his vocals to be able to achieve the “quirky” sound of James Reyne.

“Australian Crawl are known for their lyrics, with people not able to understand what they’re saying.

“This exaggerated way of singing, it’s great, but we perform in a way that people can understand, emulating the sound but keeping it so people know what we’re saying,” Marco explained.

“I perform with a lot of annunciation.”

Up on stage with Marco is fellow original Reckless member, Danny Azzopardi.

Known for his extensive and exciting knowledge and expertise on the drum kit, Dan is a “brilliant drummer”.

“He’s got this reputation that proceeds him, and he’s well known in Melbourne and across Australia for being one of the best drummers.”

Up next is Steve Giddings, the rhythm guitarist.

“He is able to reproduce Aussie Crawl’s sound to a tee, it is amazing,” Marco said.

“He can make these cello sounds which is great, and he’s always making sure our sound is perfect.”

Michael Haelser is on lead guitar, leading with beat and vibe all in one.

“Michael had played heavily across Melbourne and Australia and is massive in the scene.”

Finally, newcomer Clinton Royale brings youth and enthusiasm alongside him.

“Clinton brings a different – young – dimension to Reckless because he’s almost half our ages.

“Last time we were in Airlie Beach, Clinton had so much fun on stage and off, getting swept away with the Airlie Beach uni holiday kids.

“This time, we hope the same for him!”

Reckless, The Australia Crawl Tribute was born from passion and dedication, and despite a slight pause due to COVID, the show is back and better than ever.

“We’re extremely fortunate to be back where we are and performing across Australia.

“We are considered one of the best and most authentic Reckless tribute artists.

“We’ve gone above and beyond, with effort, music, vocals, and sound.

Now, Marco and his boys are sure to put on the show for Airlie Beach.

“We’ll be taking people back to the 80s, of the sun, sand, and surf.

“All the timeless classics.

“We get it all the time, people telling us ‘You took me back to when I was 18-years-old’.”

Officially endorsed by Australian Crawl, Reckless is one of the best and most authentic tributes around!

WHAT: Reckless: The Australian Crawl Tribute

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday October 21 and Sunday October 22, from 2pm to 5.30pm

TICKETS: Absolutely free! But booking a table is recommended

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Front man Marco Sinni, leading the charge for Reckless, the Australian Crawl Tribute

Dan Azzopardi, the man, the myth, the legend on the drums

Michael Haelser, the beat and vibe, wrapped all into one

Steve Giddings, ensuring Reckless has the best sound imaginable

Expect a packed house at the Airlie Beach Hotel. Photos supplied

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The annual T8T Fest is back in Bowen for 2023, and with some of the best up-and-coming names in local rock, this is not a music festival to miss.

Raising funds for Australian Melanoma Research Foundation, T8T Fest is in memoriam of Nicholas Tait, an avid musician who loved festivals, and sadly passed away from melanoma 16 weeks after diagnosis.

On the line up for 2023 is The Fox, Gleezus, Head Rush, Cameron Bartlett, and Damon Leary, ready to rock the night away for a good cause.

WHAT: T8T Fest

WHERE: Bowen Sporting Complex

WHEN: Saturday November 18, from 6pm

TICKETS: Entry via donation

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Tiny Homes Project Raises Massive Funds

The most recent Tiny Homes Project fundraiser event, Get Lei’d Hawaiian Party held at Cape Gloucester, saw over 120 people attend, streaming off the buses donated by Whitsunday Transit.

Major Sponsors D & C Mechanical and Electrical.

“It was a fantastic event,” said Fiona Donnellan, Fundraising Coordinator for Tiny Homes Project.

“The entire event was a huge success, which was incredible.”

The event, following its theme, included crab races, sponsored by KC’s Bar and Grill, and auctioneered by Mark Thompson.

“The crab races were spectacular, with about $3,000 being donated from them alone,” Fiona said.

The auction was a big crowd favourite again, with luxury accommodation stays, auto air-conditioning servicing, and a car fridge freezer all up for grabs.

“From the auction, we received $7,150.

“There was something for everyone to bid on, it was great!

“With these numbers and additional donations, we raised over $22,500 on the night!

“Which brings our current total to $663,000, and means we are just about to hit our target and start building four tiny homes for homeless women.”

“There are so many people to thank for the success of this event but thank you to everyone who donated towards the event and our project.”

Fiona also wishes to shout out G-Force and ViVA Acoustic for their fantastic tunes, Airlie Fire and Flow for the magical fire dancing, Brad Elliot for his electric emceeing, Will Finley – Finley Films Videographer as well as every single volunteer who helped make the event spectacular.

The construction of the four tiny homes is looking to start by the end of the year.

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Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

FROCKS AND FILLIES ON SHOW AT TURF CLUB’S DERBY DAY

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Click link to view the gallery

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Friday 06 October

Public Art Walk Mackay – New Mural Unveiling

4:30pm - 5:30pm

Hosted by Artspace Mackay Public Art Officer Jennifer Dalton-Smith, this free city art walk for all ages begins at Artspace Mackay and takes you through the city centre. Along the way, participants will learn about Mackay’s iconic public art installations and the local, and internationally-acclaimed artists who created them. Wear a hat, and comfortable shoes, bring a bottle of water, and arrive promptly at Artspace Mackay as the group will depart on time.

Free entry – Bookings essential

Bluewater Quay

Film: The Perfect Dinner

7:30pm

Director: David Minnella / 2022 / Italy / 106 mins / M / Italian with English subtitles

A delicious comedy about a Neapolitan mafioso and a chef who cross paths in Rome.

Join FilmArt for an Italian themed supper after the film.

Find out more at filmartsmackay.weebly.com | Book tickets at trybooking.com

Conservatorium of Music Theatre, CQUniversity

Royale with Cheese Ultimate 90s Rock Show

8pm

Hailing from Sydney, Royale with Cheese is AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER 90s ROCK SHOW, playing all 90s rock and pop covers – from Seattle-sound to Grunge to Britpop and all the best Oz Rock from the 90s. From Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Soundgarden to Radiohead, Blur and Oasis to Silverchair, You Am I and Screaming Jets to Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Green Day and Blink 182, Royale with Cheese magically weaves all these 90s sounds into a night that’ll have you feeling nostalgic for the last great decade of rock music!

Book tickets at oztix.com.au

The Metropolitan Hotel

Creedence The John Fogerty Show – Fortunate Son Tour

8pm

Creedence: The John Fogerty Show returns to South-East Qld, embarking on their Fortunate Son Tour.

World-class lead singer, Andre Lemberg, is the embodiment of brilliant songwriter, guitarist and singer, John Fogerty – legendary front-man of Creedence Clearwater Revival. He gives-his-all, delivering that powerful and emotive Fogerty voice we all love.

As a bonus, audiences enjoy some Texas boogie to open the show, with Oz ZZ TOP ripping through a fun set of greatest hits including Sharp Dressed Man + Tush + La Grange + Gimme All Your Lovin and more!

Get your tickets at oztix.com.au.

Seabreeze Hotel

Saturday 07 October

Mackay Showground Markets

6am – 10am

Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.

Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.

Mackay Showgrounds

BMA River 2 Reef Ride 2023

All day event

Now in its 12th year, the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival is a mass participation charity ride that raises funds for local charities – RACQ CQ Rescue and Mackay Sporting Wheelies & Disabled Association. The event is a much-loved cycling event in the Mackay region designed to bring the community together and encourage more people to become active and involved in cycling.

This year the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival will be held over 2 amazing days at Mackay Botanic Gardens. Participants can choose from the following events:

Saturday 7th October 2023

Golding Kids Colour Ride (Kids aged 5 to 12yrs)

Sunday 8th October 2023

30km Queensland Country Bank | Health Dash

60km City Fitness Epic

100km Corry Cycles Gran Fondo

Registrations required | Fees apply. Register at raceroster.com

Mackay Botanical Gardens Meadow Amphitheatre

Family Karaoke Pizza Party

6pm - 1st Saturday of the month

Come out for a fun-filled family-friendly night on the 1st Saturday of every month!

Enjoy FREE activities including karaoke, face painting, and balloon twisting.

Satisfy your hunger with delicious food at Ma’s Parkside Plaza and make lasting memories with loved ones.

Call (07) 4951 2139 to RSVP | Free entry.

Ma's Pizza Kitchen - Parkside Plaza

Sunday 08 October

Mackay Gem and Craft Show

9am - 3pm

Come and view the wonderful world of precious and semi-precious stones.

Gems, crystals, slabs and jewellery for sale. Lapidary supplies, sieving, stake a claim.

Raffles and demonstrations, refreshments and sausage sizzle.

Club member and commercial stalls available.

Admission $4 & Under 16 years – Free entry – CASH preferred.

For enquiries, phone Jim: 0418 563 477 or Sandy: 0428848996

3 Leisure Street, South Mackay

Troppo Markets | Mount Pleasant Gem and Craft Show

7:30am – 11:30am

2nd Sunday of the month

Mackay’s Troppo Treasure Markets will keep you coming back with a never-ending variety of items for sale and plenty of entertainment and amusements too.

It’s more than just shopping… it turns your Sunday into a fun day.

Come and be a part of this major community event!

Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre

Souths Sunday Bingo

7pm – 9pm

Every Sunday

Come along to the Souths Leagues Club for a round of Sunday Bingo! Come along and you could win!

Souths Leagues Club

Monday 09 October

Trivia Night

6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday

Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!

Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?

Round up your friends and get your geek on!

Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club

Trivia Night

7pm – 9pm - Every Monday

There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.

Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.

Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.

Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club

Tuesday 10 October

Mackay Seniors Expo

9am to 12pm

It is an ideal platform for service providers and businesses that have services, facilities or information to make a real difference in seniors’ quality of life and connection to the community.

The event forms part of the Queensland Government’s state-wide Seniors Month celebrations which aim to improve community attitudes towards older people, facilitate community participation and activity by older people, and enhance community connections and inter-generational relationships.

Free Bus Service (Bus Fox) from Sarina to Mackay Showgrounds and return.

Free Bus Service (Transnorth) from Mirani to Mackay Showgrounds and return.

The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds

Mackay Jobs Fair 2023

10am – 1pm

Employers are ready to employ. If you want a job, bring your resume, dress in your best and come along!

There will be 3 lucky winners who will score work clothing vouchers on the day - you have to be in it to win it.

Hope to see you there!

CQ University, Mackay

Women in Manufacturing

7am – 9:30am

Hear some inspiring stories from our panellists at this FREE seated breakfast event. Limited spaces available.

We invite you to join us for our sixth year of celebrating Women in Manufacturing. We will explore the importance of creating clear pathways and inclusive workplaces for women. Learn of the benefits this brings when we get it right, and how innovative employment strategies create a highly skilled workforce and improved staff retention.

Book your ticket at allevents.in

Rydges Mackay Suites, 9 Gregory Street, Mackay, Australia

Wednesday 11 October

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

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

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market

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

Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Boy & Bear - Regional Tour

7pm

Australian chart-topping and ARIA-award winning act Boy & Bear have a new self-titled fifth studio album and have announced tours across Australia. See them live on Wednesday night in Mackay!

Tickets at oztix.com.au

Seabreeze Hotel, Mackay

Thursday 12 October

Mackay Riverside Market

Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.

Bluewater Quay

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Most people in Proserpine would say, “No such place!”

However, in our museum newsletter in June 1998, Lena Volpi (nee Zulian) shared this story of a miracle she witnessed there in the late 1920s.  Lena’s parents, Margherita (Rita) and Pietro (Peter) Zulian, farmed at Glen Isla. They and a few other Italian families used to call a certain spot on the Proserpine River by the name Shady Beach. This is her story:

Situated on the Mt Julian side of the river where Craig McDonald now farms on land that was once Donadelli’s farm, there was a group of large trees which formed a round leafy glade. Fallen dry leaves covered the ground during summer, just perfect for picnics. The women would lay their blankets and tablecloths with plenty of food and the men would boil the billy and brew coffee. Off to one side, hidden away to the left, was a small gully used by the women to change into their bathers. The entrance to this leafy spot was covered with clean white sand heading down to the water’s edge and because of the abundance of shade was called Shady Beach.

The Zulian farm was on the opposite side of the river not far from the beach. One hot summer’s Sunday something quite traumatic happened. Lena’s mother, Rita, a devout Catholic, had invited the Parish Priest, parishioners and the Sisters (nuns) to the farm.

The Sisters slipped quietly down to the river for a swim and Lena was told to show them their little spot and the gully where they could change for a swim.  One Sister went first, changed and disappeared for a swim. Lena and the other Sister kept guard over the first Sister’s habit. Lena recalled that the Sister with her seemed very nervous and angry when from the river came the cries, “Help! Help! Sister, help!” With that, the first Sister dashed away leaving behind a confused Lena.  

Lena vividly remembered watching Sister floating face down, black bathers and white skull cap drifting like a small branch. She recalled how the current was carrying her gently all the way to the entrance of their leafy glade and to the white sand. The next thing she could remember was people running, yelling, crying and splashing across the river, led by the Parish Priest.

Everyone followed and gathered around as they lay the lifeless Sister on the leafy ground and the priest immediately began resuscitation. He applied cardio pulmonary massage, rolled her from one side to the other, her head lolling around, her face as white as snow. Everyone was silent. After what seemed like an eternity, Sister began to vomit, her body expelling all the water she had taken into her lungs.

The adults cried out, “Sister’s alive! Sister’s alive!” Tears of joy flowed and the sense of gratitude to the “Almighty” for delivering sister to the Shady Beach and not having washed her further downstream was shared by all present.  

Lena admitted that, being very young at the time, she did not fully appreciate what had happened and just how long Sister was submerged however she believed it would have been quite a while.

Many years later, she returned to Proserpine and Carlos Demartini (1907 – 2004) took Lena and her family to see the old spot - but it had all changed. She reflected that with the passing of time many things do change but that time does not dim one’s brightest memories – such as her memory of the miracle at Shady Beach.  

(Note: The Zulian family left the area in 1946.)

Story courtesy of Lena Volpi (nee Zulian). Photo courtesy of Proserpine Historical Museum.

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Could this be the scene of the miracle - on close inspection people can be seen on the far left at the river's edge. Photo supplied

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The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays have done it again, hand delivering 22 new books for the Cannonvale Library.

Primarily penned by female authors, depicting women’s lives, the new books joined the dedicated Zonta Club of the Whitsundays section, which is proving to be a popular section amongst browsers.

“We have something from a lot of different genres, all mostly women authors, and mostly stories about women.

“Sometimes we have self-help, this time we have two cookbooks, but it’s mainly fiction about women and girls,” explained Janice Lake, Zonta Club of the Whitsundays Secretary.

Selecting a variety of genres for all levels of readers, the Zonta ladies are expanding the library’s selection of female authors and stories.

“It’s a bit of a mix and match, but there is always something for everyone.”

Purchasing the books using fundraising efforts throughout the year, Zonta has been donating these books for three years for the Cannonvale Library stacks.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Julie Hall thanked the Zonta Club of Whitsundays for donating a collection of new books to Cannonvale library.

“Their recent book donation to the Library is just one of the many ways Zonta is making a meaningful difference locally,” she said.

“By providing books and resources to the library, they are contributing to the enrichment of our community, making knowledge more accessible, and encouraging a love for reading among all ages.”

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Mayor Julie Hall with the Zonta Club of the Whitsunday ladies. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Flipping criticism on its head, the classic crooners of the 30s are back, ready to fuel the Airlie Beach Hotel with classic hits and standout tunes.

Leading the charge is fantastic musician and vocalist Rhydian Lewis, Australia’s premier performer and tribute artist, who puts the class back into classics.

“In this brand new show, I have combined the very best crooner legends into one performance,” Rhydian explained.

Rhydian has been on the scene for over 13 years now, but the Crooner Legends show is special for Airlie Beach.

“I have been crooning for years now, with this show a co-creation between myself and Airlie Beach Hotel.”

With him, Rhydian brings the top shelf musicians of The Residuals.

There is Mick Lagain on keys, who’s “a bit of a genius, if I do say so myself”.

And Steve Francis on the drums.

“He is one of the most sought after live and studio drummers in Australia. He is standout, one of the best.”

And finally, Phil Jack on double bass, who brings charisma and class behind the smooth tempo of his bass.

“We can’t forget about myself, the vocals, and obliviously the weakest link of the bunch,” Rhydian laughed.

Now, what to expect from this show?

“This is a never-ending encore; it’s the songs you play at the end of the night.

“The perfect songs to watch the world go by.”

WHAT: Crooner Legends

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday October 14, 2pm to 5.30pm

TICKETS: Absolutely free! But recommended to book a table to secure seats

It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like A Bublé Boom

Now, here are your Sunday plans, filled with the impeccable vocals of Michael Bublé leading us out of the weekend.

In its 14th year, Rhydian Lewis and his band, The Residuals, have perfected the art of timeless and senseless tunes of Bublé.

Being sure to don the perfect tuxedo for the event, Rhydian looks the part, despite his own laughs.

“The tuxedo makes me look more like Bond than Bublé,” he laughed.

“But it sets the best expectations, and it raises the bar of the show, with a sharp suit, spotlessly polished shoes, and a crisp white shirt.

“I feel lost without it now if I don’t wear it on stage.

This performance will cover each and every single hit, from ‘The Way You Look Tonight’, ‘Everything’, ‘Save The Last Dance For Me’ to ‘Feeling Good’.

Rhydian explains that Australia holds a special significance for Bublé.

“We gave him his first number one hit, so there’s a special love affair between Bublé and music lovers everywhere.”

Opening up the Airlie Beach Hotel dance floor, Rhydian is expecting everyone to bring their best dance moves.

“It’s a bit of a strategic move at the Airlie Beach Hotel, but we want everyone to shake their bits, and get dancing.”

For Rhydian, he is eager to get back to Airlie Beach and bring the romantic classics to life.

“This is some of the best music ever written, and this performance is one of the best celebrations of it.”

WHAT: Best of Bublé

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Sunday October 15, 2pm to 5.30pm

TICKETS: Absolutely free! But recommended to book a table to secure seats

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Perfectly planned to coincide with his fifth studio album, Tom Curtain, multiple Golden Guitar winner and Australian country artist, is making his way to the Proserpine Showgrounds this November, for one night of mammoth country music and entertainment.

Bringing his award-winning rural Katherine Outback Experience Show as part of the Why We Live Out Here Tour, this is set to be a night of fantastic live country music and rural life love and passion.

Tom Curtain is a nationally acclaimed Australian singer-songwriter, touring with his newest album ‘Nothin’s Gonna Stop Us’.

The first release on this album received international success and it has stayed in the Top Ten of the Country Songs Australian Airplay Charts.

With him, on this tour, Tom is bringing the likes of Chris Matthews, Melissa Fraser, and Laura Frank, creating a night of powerhouse classic Aussie country music.

Tom is also an ambassador with Dolly’s Dream, choosing to spread messages of anti-bullying and donating proceeds gathered from his hit track ‘Speak Up’ featuring Sara Storer to Dolly’s Dream.

Tom’s Katherine Outback Experience blends regional farm life with a professional performance, showcasing real horse training, working dog demonstrations, live music, hilarious tales from the bush and tones of hands-on fun for the kids!

Typically based in Katherine in the dry season, from April to October, the show hits the road over the wetter times with Tom, bringing their passion for rural living across Australia.

What To Bring: Bring your own camp chair or picnic blanket and get comfy for this awesome night!

WHAT: Tom Curtain Why We Live Out Here Tour, with the Katherine Outback Experience Show

WHERE: Proserpine Showgrounds

WHEN: Saturday November 4, from 5pm

TICKETS: Available at the door on the night, and online: https://bit.ly/48rzJ4W

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