Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
Having grown up in Germany and Switzerland, Lukas developed an early appreciation for the importance of finding the right place to call home. Having experienced relocation firsthand, he understands both the excitement and challenges that come with moving. Fluent in English and German, Lukas enjoys working with a wide range of clients and prides himself on being able to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. For the past 13 years, Lukas has proudly called the Whitsundays home. Over that time, he has developed a deep understanding of the region, its lifestyle, and its property market. His strong local knowledge allows him to guide buyers and sellers with confidence while helping them make informed decisions. Before entering the real estate industry, Lukas earned a degree in Marine Engineering and built a successful career in the maritime sector. That experience shaped the professional approach he brings to his work today, instilling a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a practical problem-solving mindset that benefits his clients throughout their property journey. Lukas joined the TAYLORS team in 2020 as a Sales Assistant, working closely with Brad Sobott and gaining valuable industry knowledge and market insight. In 2025, he stepped into his role as a standalone agent, bringing his experience, dedication, and enthusiasm to every transaction. Passionate about helping people achieve their property goals, Lukas is committed to delivering a smooth, transparent, and rewarding experience for both buyers and sellers in the Whitsundays community.
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This poem from my Grandpa Bob is entitled ‘Birth’. Thanks to my parents for supplying it. I’d also like to dedicate this corner to my Mum, who lost her father and brother in a very short span of time. This week’s corner is for her. BIRTH this is my hand this is my eye wave the one with the other’s cry noise is anger flood is kindness joy is vision fear is blindness wet is short dry is long night a silence day a song good is a smile bad is a frown the first lift up the second put down knowing is start not knowing is stop interesting is pick up boring is drop looking is memory hiding is forgetting wrong is stopping right is letting that is wind this is rain there is light here is pain that is laughter this a sigh how much to know before I die
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Rising star Katie Jayne is set to take to the stage at Airlie Beach Hotel for two free shows, guaranteed to entertain. The eclectic performer boasts an impressive resume, having given standout performances at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, Deni Ute Muster, PBR Australia and major festival rodeo stages across the country. Katie began her music career at the age of 25 when she moved to London, forming her first band Southern Junction who went on to play at the Isle of Wight Festival and London O2 Arena. After returning to Australia, Katie found her voice as a solo artist and hasn’t looked back since. “I’m at a point now where I know who I am and what I have to say and I’m ready to just go out there and play as many shows as I can around Australia”, said Katie. With her unique blend of modern country fire with traditional soul, Katie Jayne is fast becoming one of the most exciting new voices in modern Australian country music. With over 400,000 Spotify streams on her latest single, KIX Country Top 20 chart success and high rotation on CMC, Katie has cemented herself as a rising star. “It’s so great to be able to put on a country show in Airlie Beach. Australian artists are often overlooked in country music so it’s wonderful to have this opportunity. I’m very excited to bring my music up there.” Katie encourages everyone to come for an afternoon of high energy and no-nonsense country storytelling. “Come along, even if you’re not a country fan. We don’t take ourselves too seriously. We just like to have fun and play.” WHAT: Katie Jayne, two Free Shows WHEN: Saturday 21st March, Sunday 22nd March, 2pm – 5.30pm WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel The Airlie Beach Hotel will also feature an additional special treat with the Mackay Line Dancers. This fun event will give everyone a chance to get up and have fun in between band sets, with inclusive dance party’s for everyone to get involved WHAT: Mackay Line Dancers, Free Lessons WHEN: Saturday 21st March, Sunday 22nd March, 11am-12pm, 2.50pm-3.20pm, 4.10-4.40pm WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel Captions Rising Australian country artist Katie Jayne will perform two free shows at the Airlie Beach Hotel later this month. Photo supplied
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When the lights rise and the music begins at this year’s Dancing With Heart, one familiar local face will be stepping onto the stage with courage, glamour and a little theatrical flair. By day, Janine works as Sales Manager with Seven Network, helping local businesses connect with audiences across the region through television advertising. Many residents also recognise her from the weekly “What’s On This Weekend” segment on 7 Local News, where her vibrant personality shines as she highlights the events bringing the community together. While her confident and bubbly nature is well known, Janine admits the journey to the dance floor has pushed her well outside her comfort zone. “Most people see the confident bubbly side of me, but what they don’t see is how much I push through nerves and self-doubt behind the scenes.” Her routine promises plenty of personality and theatrical flair. “Oh, we are bringing drama! My routine is theatrical and glamorous! Think sass, storytelling, big expressions,” she says. “And yes… I’ll be gracefully (hopefully!) making my way down the stairs. If I don’t? Well, at least it’ll be memorable and I promise I’ll fall with flair.” What have you found the most difficult? Remembering the choreography while my brain is busy going, “Don’t mess up, don’t mess up!”… I truly want to do it justice. What do you value most about My Hospital Foundation? That the funds raised stay right here in our community, directly supporting local hospital services, patients and families. You never know when you or someone you love might need that care, which makes the Foundation’s work so meaningful. It’s also incredibly inspiring to stand alongside the other contestants as we’re all stepping outside our comfort zones and working together to raise as much as we can for such an important cause.
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Luke Geiger Live At Harrup Park
Friday, 6pm to 10pm
Luke Geiger is performing at Harrup Park Country Club this Friday. No bookings required and no ticket needed, this will be a great free event for everyone.
Harrup Park Country Club
Elvis One Night In Vegas
Friday, from 7.30pm
Mark Anthony is returning as Elvis in this one night only experience. Mark will push audiences back in time and reminisce on the legend of music, playing all the greatest hits.
Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre
Daisy Day
Saturday, 8.30am to 12pm
Show your love for the Mackay Botanic Gardens and plant over 1,000 Golden Everlasting Daises across the slopes of the Lagoons. Be sure to contact Maya to participate 0436 331 009, or mackayrbgfriends@gmail.com
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
The Smurfs Great Escape
Saturday, 9am to 5pm
In this new immersive escape room-esque game, save the Smurfs from Gargamel and follow a scavenger hunt through the streets of Mackay. In this family friendly experience, you compete against other teams and race against the clock. Tickets available from Eventsonthehorizon.com
Mackay
ZACH MACH Mackay Adventure Challenge
Saturday, 8am to 5pm
Dust off your mountain bike and get your kayak reading, the ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge is gearing up for another round. Mountain Bike down Mia Mia, kayak the Teemburrra Dam, run through the rainforest and ride past cane paddocks, in this epic challenge.
Pinnacle, Queensland
MKC Sugar City Titles
Saturday, 7am to 9pm
Get those karts out of the shed, it’s time to race! All classes of kart accepted, and all race licenses recognised. This will be a day of full of fun for the whole family.
21 Grants Road, Palmyra
Seaforth Mega Markets
Sunday, 8am to 12pm
The Mega Markets are back, showcasing the best of Mackay’s homemade goodies, fresh fruit and veg, plants, and food vendors.
Seaforth
Volunteer Expo 2023
Sunday, 9am to 12pm
Come down to the Mackay Showgrounds and see how you can give back to your community, with local community groups and charities promoting their opportunities for volunteering.
Mackay Showgrounds
Sarina Country Music Family Afternoon
Sunday, from 1pm
Bring your originals or even your favourite songs and celebrate the love of country music at the Sarina Sporting and Services League. With the best of backing bands, sing along to fantastic country music in this family friendly afternoon. Tickets at $5
Sarina Sporting and Services League
Mackay Urban Gelsoft Games
Sunday, 3.30pm to 7.30pm
In this hectic day, test your blaster game with all types of players, 10 years and up, welcome. Bookings are strongly encouraged so get signed up and prepare yourself for an adrenaline fuelled afternoon.
Mackay North State High School
MADSCOTS Whiskey Night
Thursday, from 6.30pm
In a year second, MADSCOTS are holding another Whiskey Night, a fantastic opportunity to taste all the unique whiskies from around the world.
The Dispensary Mackay
Bjorn Again – Thank You For The Music Tour
Thursday, 7.30pm
In a one day show only, Bjorn Again is showcasing their love and dedication to the powerhouse ABBA, in this sing-along, dance-along experience. Tickets begin from $73 and available from themecc.com.au
Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
New concrete has been poured and rev heads in Mackay are getting ready.
The Sugar City Burnouts is quickly approaching and there is no time to wait.
It is no joke about this burn out shows, with audiences and drivers alike eager for the smoke and surprise of the show.
In its 5th year, the 2023 Sugar City Burnout are upping the stakes, making this a show to not miss.
After a pre-event was postponed in March due to poor weather making the Palmyra Drag Racing Club dragway dangerous for drivers, the Sugar City Burnout competition is a welcome return, taking place on the second weekend in May.
On the lineup including pro, eight and six cylinders, and ladies class entrants, including the local six-cylinder CURRYINAHURRY Sugar City Taxi and with entrants coming from as far as Townsville to Wagga Wagga in New South Wales.
With a re-invigorated dragstrip and pad, being extended an extra 10 metres, now totalling 65.3 metres long, with a 22-metre tip in.
The day jampacked with the screech of tyre skidding, smoke blowing, and engines roaring, and with this event being a highlight on the drag and burn out calendar, this is one not to miss on the Mackay calendar.
With a prize pool worth $8,500 across all classes, this competition will have strength, smoke, and high speed tipins.
WHAT: Sugar City Burnouts
WHERE: Palmyra Drag Racing Club, Mackay
WHEN: Saturday, May 13,
TICKETS: mackaytickets.com.au
Join the smoke, engine screech and family laughter at the 2023 Sugar City Burnouts
Mackay Scale Modellers Club hosted its 29th annual exhibition and Model Competition in St Paul’s Uniting Church hall last weekend – attracting enthusiasts from as far as Townsville, Cairns, Rockhampton and Brisbane.
Sponsored by Outlaw Paints and BBs Hobbies Mackay, the judges were impressed by the 150 entries lodged that featured intricate scale models of a variety of subjects including nautical, military, aviation and civil historical themes, spiced up with fantasy and science fiction.
Brent Wood was the recipient of the Greg Martin Memorial Award for Best on Show (Logging Camp) – an award that perpetuates the memory of the Club’s founder with partner Vicki Ayre on hand to present the prize.
Club President Wayne Belzer of BBs Hobbies thanked major sponsor Outlaw Paints for their tremendous support and his tireless team for their work behind the scenes.
“Models on show included scratch-built creations and these scale replicas are the result of the labour of love of talented model makers who worked patiently and diligently for hours to make intricate miniature replicas out of diverse materials,” he said.
Winning modellers were: JUNIOR: Cars & Figures Fictional: Sidney Newlands; Science Fiction & Wooden Models: Alexander Newlands; LEGO & Model Railways: Dallas Head; SENIORS: Aircraft Large Scale: Alvin Whyte; Motorcycles: Greg Canning; Military Vehicle Small Scale: Greg Canning; All Types & Large Scale Tracked: Alvin Whyte; Large Scale Wheeled: Chris Bean; Miscellaneous: Dimi Markou; Scratchbuilt: Rob Farlow; Science Fiction: Ross Moore; Ships Powered: Jeremy Cahill; War Vehicles Gaming Figures: Alvin Whyte; Aircraft Small Scale: Brad Hurley; Cars Modified: Jason Waddell; Cars Out of Box: Alvin Whyte; Cartoon & Egg Models: Ross Moore; Trucks & Civil Vehicles: Jason Waddell; Dioramas & Vignettes: Adam Robins & Brent Wood; Figures Actual: Jeremy Cahill; Fictional: Ross Moore; LEGO Senior: Scott Newland & Myles Somerset; Rail Layouts LEGO Senior: Myles Somerset; Aircraft Display: Myles Somerset; Best World War 2 Model: Tony Hill; Military Vehicle Large Scale: Chris Bean; People’s Choice: Simon Blom.
Mackay Scale Modellers Club President Wayne Belzer (standing far right) with this year’s exhibition competition winners L-R Simon Blom, Rob Farlow, Brent Wood, Ross Moore, Dallas Head, Scott Newlands, Jeremy Cahill, Adam Robins and Alvin Whyte (seated)
Brent Wood receives the Greg Martin Memorial Award for Best on Show (Logging Camp) from the late Modellers Club founder’s partner Vicki Ayre and Club President Wayne Belzer
Lego models filled the exhibit. Photo credit: Chris Karas
Paul Tabone is returning to his roots, bringing his Golden Days show to Mackay in May.
After four years of performing in London’s West End and hanging up his time on Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, playing Ubaldo Piangi, Paul has announced his massive Australian show, Goldens Days: Songs from the Movies and Musicals.
This mammoth of a touring show has Paul travelling lengths of Australia, showcasing his tenor and musical range.
The performance takes audiences on a journey, including much loved classics from the ‘Golden Age’ of music, and drawing on more contemporary favourites, including Disney and popular musicals, including The Student Prince, The Phantom of the Opera and Toast of New Orleans.
Highlight performances include ‘Love Changes Everything’, ‘Bring Him Home’ and ‘Oh, What a Beautiful Morning’.
Moving through decades of music and fantastic inspiration, Paul leaves no member of the audience behind, guiding them through his performance magically.
He will be sharing the stage with friend and past lecturer Professor Judith Brown, with guest appearances of Madison Crase and Isabella Davison.
Being dubbed the ‘tenor from Oz’ is high acclaim, and Paul Tabone does not disappoint. Paul and his Golden Days tour will be at Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM Music, Boundary Road), on Sunday, May 14, at 1pm.
WHAT: Paul Tabone presents Golden Days
WHEN: Sunday, May 14
WHERE: Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music
TICKETS: cqcm.edu.au
Paul Tabone, dubbed Tenor of Oz returns to Mackay
Tourism business owners and anyone working within the sector are invited to attend a free workshop which will provide helpful tools and sustainable initiatives to offer a pathway towards creating low carbon tourism across the Whitsundays.
The workshop is due to take place at The Reef Gateway Hotel on Wednesday, May 10 from 2pm until 4pm.
The event is part of a larger four-year program which began by educating 37 tourism businesses on sustainable working practices back in 2022.
Since then, the Healthy Heart Project has shown these businesses how to help the environment and save money at the same time.
The latest workshop is dedicated to recruiting more tourism businesses to the program and during the event, participants will hear real life accounts from other businesses who have experienced success through adopting the key principals.
EcoBiz Sustainability Auditor Fiona Sleight will be presenting alongside Lee Hawkins who will give a broader description of the role of the Health Heart Project in our local region.
“The rise of environmentally conscious travellers is rewarding tourism businesses that are making an effort to reduce their carbon footprint,” said Ms Hawkins, Climate Change Resilience Officer.
“More visitors are looking for eco-tourism options that have a low, or even non-existent environmental impact.”
During the afternoon, further topics will include consumer behaviour, climate change and pathways to create a Sustainable Destination Accreditation for the Whitsundays.
Attendees will also receive an online carbon calculator demonstration and afternoon tea will be provided.
WHAT: Tourism Workshop: Moving Towards Low Carbon Tourism
WHERE: The Reef Gateway Hotel
WHEN: Wednesday, May 10 – 2pm-4pm
COST: Free
The boys from Sex and Chocolate are back and ready to work their magic in Airlie Beach over this Mother’s Day weekend, at the Airlie Beach Hotel.
With their intimate Motown II Millennia show, the Sex and Chocolate boys are ready to give Airlie Beach a show not to be missed.
With smooth tunes and unforgettable dance moves, Sex and Chocolate draw inspiration from classic Motown, R&B, and soul, with hits from Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, The Spinners, Earth Wind and Fire, Prince, Bruno Mars, Outkast, and Bill Ocean, there will be something for everyone.
Featuring the vocals and appeal of Paul Thompson and his team, Mikey, Wilz, and Maihi, three award-winning sensations that dominate, the boys will perform this personal show to a crowded dance floor.
With every rendition of this up-close and personal show, the boys of Sex and Chocolate have perfected their craft, wowing audiences throughout the two-hour show, and leaving every single person entertained and entranced.
The boys have shared their excitement to be performing to the Airlie Beach crowd once again, wanting to make sure the ladies feel extra special on the day.
Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays has become a favourite for the group, returning for the umpteenth time to entertain the unforgettable Airlie crowd, their classic temptations of sex, charisma, and romance leading the show.
With over 20 years’ experience in the entertainment trade, these boys have perfectly smooth harmonies and sensual dance moves and are always ready to serenade the crowd through the two afternoon shows.
And the Airlie Beach Hotel is looking after you - any table booked at the Airlie Beach Hotel for Mother’s Day will receive a complimentary gift of Devils Corner Rosé, so be sure to make a reservation and treat your mum right this Mother’s Day.
While, yes, Sex and Chocolate are very popular with the ladies – there’s no denying that - but all are welcome to this charismatic show, where the only stripping is the boys’ smooth harmonies and powerful dance moves.
Indulge in this Mother’s Day weekend special at the Airlie Beach Hotel and experience the most romantic show of the year, with the highly sought-after boys as they travel Australia, sharing their love.
Expect to be swooned by smooth talking, engaging tunes that will ease the workday blues right out of you.
WHAT: Sex & Chocolate presents Motown II Millennia
WHEN: May 13 and 14, from 2.00pm to 5.30pm
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
The boys are back and ready to serenade all through this Mother’s Day weekend
Airlie Beach Hotel has the perfect free shows for the weekend
Sex and Chocolate will be at the Airlie Beach Hotel, May 13 and 14, ready to bring their Motown charm
To imbue this review with the spirit of “Mafia Mamma”, I refuse to refer to the film as pastiche – instead, I dub it a “pasticcio”. Please: cue the weeping strings, the long, drawn-out horn, and “leave the gun, take the cannoli.”
Mafia Mamma is, at its purest, a fish-out-of-water comedy where the fish has been dropped into a nice Napoletana Sauce; it is unabashedly inspired by every mafia trope ever from every mafia film ever (Especially “The Godfather”). There’s a premise and a promise of goofiness in that. And being directed by the talented Catherine Hardwicke – whom audiences would vaguely know from her directorship on “Twilight” – though, ever since then, she’s flitted between television and film directing; notably in “This Is Us” and “Guillermo del Tor’s Cabinet of Curiosities” – the offer to see Mafia Mamma seems to be one audience can’t refuse.
Hardwicke again directs Toni Collette, having worked with the star in 2015’s “Miss You Already” (A brilliant performance from Collette, as ever). And here, she portrays the self-effacing American helicopter-mom Katherine, and inherits her grandfather's mafia empire in Italy – becoming the eponymous Mafia Mamma. And she carries the film with her charm, despite an often-flailing script that seems torn between mafia motifs and Hallmark travel films. Based on a short story by French novelist Amanda Sthers, Mafia Mamma has some deft flourishes to it.
So, guided by the firm's consigliere, Bianca (Monica Belluci), Collette attempts to defy everyone's expectations as the new head of the family business. A sort of female-empowerment narrative ensues – the lacking in confidence Collette tries to find her feet in Italy in an “Eat, Pray, Copulate” approach -- but the film seems remiss to commit to it wholeheartedly. Despite the detractors, Mafia Mamma cuts a goofy figure worth the watch.
Mafia Mamma (R) is playing at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre this Sunday, May 7.
Review by Declan Durrant.
Wintermoon Music Festival
Friday 5pm to Monday, 4pm
The annual Wintermoon Music Festival is back, celebrating music and dance, with workshops and circus acts in the Mount Charlton rainforest.
Mount Charlton, Queensland
Hypnotise Me presented by Andy Vening
Friday from 6.30pm
Returning by popular demand, comedy hypnotist Andy Vening is ready to surprise the audience with his new comedy show. Prepare to be shocked by his amazing hypnotic skills, where volunteers test their unconscious minds in fantastic displays.
Metropolitan Hotel, Mackay
Sarina Mud Trials May Day
Saturday 7am to Sunday 8pm
Join Sarina for the annual Sarina Mud Trials. Following the Grand Parade at 8am, the races begin, tearing through the course and making a mess. Classes include junior, standard, buggies, bombs and topgun. With a licensed bar and live music, this will be fun for the whole family.
Sarina Showgrounds
Flavourista Social Tasting
Saturday, 9am to 11am
Enjoy good food and others company with this great workshop. Starting with a nature walk, create meals together, using Flavourista blends, which are gluten and nut free, with the chance to win various prizes.
Wetland Walkabout
The Wild Sky live at the Seabreeze Hotel
Sunday, from 2pm
Mackay local band, The Wild Sky, will cruise you into the public holiday, with their blues-inspired tunes.
Seabreeze Hotel
Resin Workshop by the Creative Art Studio
Sunday, 2pm to 5pm
Relax the weekend away with this calming resin workshop. Come home with a beautiful floral resin trinket dish. Led by artist Michelle, this workshop will teach you all you need to know about resin art and give you handy tips and tricks to make your own.
The Creative Art Studio, 3 Ungerer Street, Mackay
Boogie Bounce Mackay Walking Group
Monday, from 9.30am
Hosted by the Boogie Bounce Mackay Walking Group, come along to the new walking group, starting Monday. Meet at the Botanical Gardens and join the group for a casual walk around the gardens, following by a coffee at the café.
Botanical Gardens Mackay
Novice/Beginner Yoga
Every Wednesday, 3pm to 4pm
Led by Wellness with Deb, this new novice and beginner yoga class is perfect for everyone. Strengthening and stretching muscles is the game, learning how to use and engage muscles for the best results with your fitness.
Habana, Queensland
STEAM Club – Magformer Construction
Wednesday, 3.30pm to 4.30pm
Hosted by the Mackay Regional Council Libraries, this STEAM Club will encourage creative minds, by building engineering projects with Magformer magnet shapes.
Gordon White Library
Frenchy Judgement Day
Thursday, from 7.30pm
Viral Australian comedian Frenchy is visiting Mackay on his national tour. With nothing off limits, and warnings for sitting in the front row, this show will test the audience.
Metropolitan Hotel, Mackay
July sees the return of the Whitsunday Voice Youth Literature Festival and the Literary Dinner, with headline keynote speaker, Annabel Crabb announced.
Whitsunday Voices is one of the largest literature festivals for youth in north Queensland, attracting over 5,000 students to Mackay to the annual event.
The festival allows students to meet and engage with some of Australia’s most acclaimed authors, presenters, and performers, with students coming from as far south as Rockhampton, and just north of Bowen.
2023 Australian stars include authors Isobelle Carmody, Katrina Nannestad, and Matt Stanton and performers Shake and Stir.
The Literary Dinner is a highlight of the program, celebrating the conclusion of the wider festival, with Australian personality Annabel Crabb presenting the keynote presentation.
Annabel has led the charge on various ABC Projects, including Australia Talks, The House with Annabel Crabb, and The Kitchen Cabinet, which received two Logie nominations for Most Outstanding New Talent and Most Popular New Female Talent.
The Literary Dinner includes a three-course meal, live music, and the opportunity to grab a hold of favourite high-profile presenters.
The festival spans three days, July 12 to 14, and includes author talks, writing and art workshops, a Poetry Slam! Competition and short story competition, presentations, plus book signing for all patrons.
WHAT: Whitsunday Voices Literary Dinner
WHERE: MECC Plenary Hills
WHEN: Friday, July 14
TICKETS: themeec.com.au
Annabel Crabb joins the Whitsunday Voices lineup
It was perfect weather for the first 2023 Cinema Under the Stars for the Mackay Hospital Foundation, presented by Harvey Norman Bedding Mackay, and sponsored by BHP BMA.
Over 300 people attended the showing of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 on the Mackay Botanical Gardens lawn on Friday, April 21.
From 5.30pm, families were welcomed into the Amphitheatre, with a jumping castle and merry-go-round, face painting and balloon animals available.
Attendees also had the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets to go into the draw for the chance to win a VIP marquee package.
The VIP marquees were decorated with lights, and had lanterns, an inflatable lounge with blankets and cushions, and a table perfect for food and drinks, plus vouchers for food and drink vendors that participated in the event.
Other raffle ticket prizes also included one of 25 pillow and store vouchers for Harvey Norman Bedding Mackay and food vouchers from the food vendors.
Cinema Under the Stars is one venture of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, which is driven to support Mackay families, and aid in reducing the offset costs associated with receiving essential health care services.
As a community charity, the Mackay Hospital Foundation supports patients within Mackay Base Hospital and other public hospitals in the Mackay district.
The next Mackay Hospital Foundation Cinema Under the Stars will be held on August 11, in the Mackay Botanical Gardens Amphitheatre, with a third on September 16, in Sarina.
308 people attended the first Cinema Under the Stars held by the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Photo supplied
The Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) has always been known for bringing together the best in the music industry to mentor students and entertain Mackay audiences. This May, CQCM have two exciting events lined up that are sure to be a treat for fans of great jazz, blues, and soul.
Friday Jazz @ The Con on May 12th will feature George Washingmachine, a Sydney-based vocalist, guitarist, and violinist, who will perform alongside the talented staff and students of the Conservatorium. The following week, on May 19th, Keyboard Confessions will showcase the vocal and keyboard prowess of Clayton Doley, another Sydney-based musician. The event will also feature performances by staff and students of the CQCM.
George Washingmachine has been a fixture in the Australian music scene for over four decades. He is known for his impeccable musicianship and his ability to blend various genres of music, including jazz, blues, swing, and country. He has performed with some of the biggest names in music, including James Morrison, Tommy Emmanuel, and Leo Sayer. Washingmachine's style is soulful, and his violin playing is particularly memorable.
Clayton Doley is a musician who is equally at home on the keyboard or behind a microphone. His style is a mix of blues, funk, and rock, and he is known for his soulful vocals and his impressive keyboard skills. Doley has toured with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Joe Bonamassa, Harry Manx, Jimmy Barnes, and Renee Geyer. Doley has recorded a number of albums with his groups the Organ Donors and Bayou Billabong, with the finest musicians Australia and New Orleans has to offer.
These two events are a rare opportunity to experience some of the best jazz and blues musicians in the country, performing alongside the talented students and staff of the CQCM. Tickets for both events can be purchased on the CQCM website, https://cqcm.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/sales/sales. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the musical genius of George Washingmachine and Clayton Doley, and to support the Conservatorium's talented staff and students. Mark your calendars and get your tickets now!
Spanning over 10 years, Cosentino’s career is mind-blowing and extraordinary, always mystifying crowds, shocking and surprising audiences all over the world.
And now, Cosentino is taking it regional, performing his Decennium: The Greatest Hits Tour, honouring the 10-year milestone.
The master magician and escape artist caught up with Mackay and Whitsunday Life journalist Bronte Hodge ahead of his show in Mackay this May.
How does it make you feel to reach 10 years in the industry?
You know, I’ve been doing this a long, long time and looking back, I think of the TV specials and the international TV shows. All the tours and all the people I've met, and all different countries have been pretty you know, amazing. To be able to turn a little passion into entertainment is a niche, and to turn that into a viable career is amazing. So, yeah, I'm kind of, very proud of what we've managed to accomplish.
We’ve really broken the mould. And now I’ve got a new TV show coming out next month, so we just keep going. We keep reinventing and we keep refreshing and we keep breaking the rules.
What is a defining moment in your career?
Wow, there’s a couple of really interesting moment. The first one I remember I was watching David Copperfield, when I was a teenager after Regent Theatre in Melbourne, it's pretty special. And then probably two years later, I auditioned for Australia’s Got Talent at the Regent Theatre, and I was so nervous. And then, a year later, I filmed my own TV special at the Regent Theatre, and that was really a completion of a circle.
What can audiences expect in the Decennium show?
It’s the best of my best. I’m taking a part my five TV specials, the international TV show, the international tours, and experiences from around the globe and jampacking them into one 90-minute show. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a long time and it’s great. It’s not new material, it’s the best material. So, if people have seen the show before, their getting the best parts. I’m drawing on five hours of TV specials, nine hours of international TV shows and 10 years of material since Australia’s Got Talent. There’s no way anyone has seen all my material.
Can you share a shocking act that’s in the show?
Yeah, I can. One would be where my head is in a Perspex box with 18 kitchen knives. I have to wriggle and get out with a timer. And this one went wrong on a rehearsal on my TV special. I had to get 12 stitches in my chin and caught it all on camera.
And it's, you know, seeing it on TV is one thing, but seeing it live is another because someone comes on stage, they examine the apparatus and the knives, and they become invested.
WHAT: Cosentino – Decennium – The Greatest Hits Tour
WHEN: Thursday, May 5
WHERE: The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
TICKETS: cosentino.com.au
Master magician and escape artist, Cosentino, returns to Mackay with 10th year anniversary performance. Photo supplied
Spanning over 10 years, Cosentino’s career is mind-blowing and extraordinary, always mystifying crowds, shocking and surprising audiences all over the world.
And now, Cosentino is taking it regional, performing his Decennium: The Greatest Hits Tour, honouring the 10-year milestone.
The master magician and escape artist caught up with Mackay and Whitsunday Life journalist Bronte Hodge ahead of his show in Mackay this May.
How does it make you feel to reach 10 years in the industry?
You know, I’ve been doing this a long, long time and looking back, I think of the TV specials and the international TV shows. All the tours and all the people I've met, and all different countries have been pretty you know, amazing. To be able to turn a little passion into entertainment is a niche, and to turn that into a viable career is amazing. So, yeah, I'm kind of, very proud of what we've managed to accomplish.
We’ve really broken the mould. And now I’ve got a new TV show coming out next month, so we just keep going. We keep reinventing and we keep refreshing and we keep breaking the rules.
What is a defining moment in your career?
Wow, there’s a couple of really interesting moment. The first one I remember I was watching David Copperfield, when I was a teenager after Regent Theatre in Melbourne, it's pretty special. And then probably two years later, I auditioned for Australia’s Got Talent at the Regent Theatre, and I was so nervous. And then, a year later, I filmed my own TV special at the Regent Theatre, and that was really a completion of a circle.
What can audiences expect in the Decennium show?
It’s the best of my best. I’m taking a part my five TV specials, the international TV show, the international tours, and experiences from around the globe and jampacking them into one 90-minute show. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a long time and it’s great. It’s not new material, it’s the best material. So, if people have seen the show before, their getting the best parts. I’m drawing on five hours of TV specials, nine hours of international TV shows and 10 years of material since Australia’s Got Talent. There’s no way anyone has seen all my material.
Can you share a shocking act that’s in the show?
Yeah, I can. One would be where my head is in a Perspex box with 18 kitchen knives. I have to wriggle and get out with a timer. And this one went wrong on a rehearsal on my TV special. I had to get 12 stitches in my chin and caught it all on camera.
And it's, you know, seeing it on TV is one thing, but seeing it live is another because someone comes on stage, they examine the apparatus and the knives, and they become invested.
WHAT: Cosentino – Decennium – The Greatest Hits Tour
WHEN: Thursday, May 5
WHERE: The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
TICKETS: cosentino.com.au
Master magician and escape artist, Cosentino, returns to Mackay with 10th year anniversary performance. Photo supplied
Returning for its 35th year, the Mackay Festival of Arts is offering a jampacked line-up of artists and events, so everyone is covered.
The Mackay Festival of Arts encompasses the entire month of July, with a series of events and music festivals that cater for everyone, be it live music and entertainment, workshops, high teas, and tours.
“Expect late-night laughs and madcap comedy at High Tea with Booff and everything from sword swallowing to daring aerial feats and tap dancing inside the Ukiyo tent with Le Coup,” said Mayor Greg Williamson.
Included in the line-up is the Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub, which will take over the Civic Centre Precinct from July 3 to 9, and will feature live music, food vans, a licensed bar with Red Dog Brewery and two on-site festivals.
“And that’s just a very small part of the festival,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Our team have collaborated with event organisers across the region to unite many existing festivals under the Mackay Festival of Arts Banner,” allowing patrons more opportunity to experience the events.
Other events under the banner include BE Social Fest, Daly Bay Infrastructure Literary Dinner, Wisely Wine and Food Day, Breathe In with Crossroad Arts, and Mack Popcon.
Festival favourites, including Daly Bay Illuminate and Wisely Wine and Food Day have been reimagined, with exciting twists to surprise locals.
Manager of Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre (MECC) and Events, Andrew Bobeldyk said “We have some spectacular installations from around the nation to light up Daly Bay Illuminate in Queens Park.”
Mr Bobeldyk also said the Wisely Wine and Food Day have a new layout, meaning patrons can have improved views of the stage and better VIP experiences.
Festival-goers are spoilt for choice, with something for everyone, Mackay is the place to be in July.
WHAT: Mackay Festival of Arts
WHEN: July 1 to July 31
PROGRAM: themecc.com.au
The Lost Dogs’ Disco to feature at Daly Bay Illuminate. Photo supplied
Welcome to the Sugar City, where sweet sugar lingers in the air, and you can taste it on the tip of your tongue.
With delicate design and integral artistry, it is no surprise Mackay is home to the Sugar City Art Deco and Modernism Society, an organisation which celebrates and preserves the classic architecture and history of the city.
And for the upcoming World Art Deco Day on Friday, April 28, the Sugar City Art Deco and Modernism Society will be hosting Mackay’s World Art Deco Day, with a lucrative cocktail party at the Ambassador Hotel.
Art Deco Day commemorates the opening of the Exposition Internationale Des Arts Decoratifs et Industrials Moderne in Paris, in 1925, a monumental world fair that highlighted the new modern style of architecture, interior design, art and jewellery.
Celebrating the 1920/30s, this evening also announces the launch of the Sugar City Art Deco and Modernism Guide Book, a dedicated guide highlighting the architecture of Mackay and its history.
Grab your best flapper dress and your fedora and join the cocktail party of the century.
WHAT: Mackay’s World Art Deco Day
WHERE: The Ambassador Hotel
WHEN: Friday, April 28, from 6.30pm
TICKETS: mackayartdeco.org
Mackay’s flapper party of the century
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