One of the country’s largest Comedy Festivals is sending its best and brightest on the road to arrive in Mackay on April 27.

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow will return to the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) with familiar favourites from this year’s Festival line-up, alongside the most talked-about breakthrough stars of the moment.

Comedian, self-proclaimed beer enthusiast, and cheeky scallywag Brett Blake MCs the evening alongside internationally recognised comedian Anirban Dasgupta.

Blake brings his brilliant digs at Aussie culture and Dusgupta – who vaunts an Instagram following of over 155 thousand and over 15 million views on excerpts of his skits – his effortless stage presence.

Joining them on the line-up are Bronwyn Kuss, Stuart Daulman, and He Huang – certainly a guaranteed great night out.

Manager of MECC & Events Andrew Bobeldyk said comedy is always a popular choice for Mackay locals.

“Laughter makes us feel good and helps us relax. Each year we receive great feedback following the Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow. Our audiences always enjoy their night” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“The festival has visited the MECC 15 times in 15 years. It’s quite popular!” he continued.

The night of entertainment will begin at 6.30pm with live music in the MECC North Foyer by local musician Jonte Tupaea.

For a one-way ticket to laughter, those looking for their next comedy fix should book now.

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The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is bringing its stellar line-up to Mackay in April

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Sam Mendes’s ‘Empire of Light’ is beguiling, undoubtedly, eventually finding a flow after its early portions, which can often feel overwrought or anxious.

Directing and penning the film, Mendes has a deal to contend with. Though, with his credentials, audiences can back him. He has an immense and startling array of talent at his disposal – the invariably praised cinematographer Roger Deakins; the presently-deified (and justifiably so) Olivia Coleman. Yet, despite everything, the film begins in a woozy malaise, not knowing what it wishes to be. Ode to Cinema? Love story? Political and social commentary? An admixture of all?

Set against the backdrop of a post-Margaret Thatcher ‘80s Britain, the rheumy-eyed Hilary Small (Coleman) returns to, what is for her, drab work at a local cinema within her coastal township after her stay in a mental health institution.

Luckily, as is the case with Coleman’s Hilary, the film’s feeling of ennui subsides as hers does, and Empire of Light finds its feet through performances from Toby Jones, Michael Ward, and Coleman herself, as well as the faultless Deakins. At times, his cinematography is painterly: its landscapes remind of the piercing, evenly lit outdoor works of Edward Hopper; its interiors eerily akin to the painter's 'New York Movie'. Empire of Light is more of an art-deco-infused pastiche, with Deakins’ propensity for the gloriously long, drawn-out shadows.

Hilary is drawn out from her depression by the young, handsome, and black Stephen (Ward), a new hire at the cinema who rejuvenates her. I mention his race as it becomes the film’s central political treatise: The Thatcher-fuelled small town despises him, causing more misery for Hilary.

At its end, we are left with a question. Will their romantic tryst pull Hilary from here tristesse? That remains ambiguous. For most viewers, though, they may be dubious: the ending echoes Anton Chekov's The Lady with the Dog, only far more saccharine. There is a gesture towards hopefulness in its closing narration – a reading of Philip Larkin’s poem The Trees. We wonder, will love begin “afresh, afresh, afresh?”

Often moving, Empire of Light makes a grandiose sweep at love and loneliness with the help of a cinematographer at his zenith.

Empire of Light (MA15+) opens at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema on Tuesday, April 4.

Review by Declan Durrant

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Sam Mendes’s Empire of Light is a film of exquisite beauty courtesy of seasoned cinematographer Roger Deakins

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From The Venerable Dr Rosemary Dunn

Christ dies, and Christ lives. Sure, but what difference does it make to my life? Well, the Easter story is actually about everyone’s life. Jesus endures what all of us face at some time: betrayal, injustice, hurt, insults, suffering.

OK, most mightn’t face literal crucifixion – although some do. But suffering is a part of life and humans don’t seem to be able to stop this suffering.

But Christians understand that God, who created this universe in love and is love, comes into this world in Jesus to face all the rubbish that we do.

And although he suffers like us, he responds to that suffering in a way that most of us can’t- with love and forgiveness.

Jesus faces his tormentors and says: ‘Father forgive them for they know not what they do’. Jesus hands his accusers to God, for God’s will to be done: that his creatures find new life.

Jesus will not participate in the cycle of human vengeance – and so he breaks the cycle of death.  

In a world of destruction and cynicism,  Easter reminds us that God continues to share his compassion, love and grace with us, so that we can bring new life to our lives, now and forever.

Be blessed as you share Easter love with others!

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No skater starts knowing how to ollie, kickflip, or even just move forward on the board – and that’s where Bowen PCYC’s free Skateboarding Workshop comes in.

The local not-for-profit organisation is inviting enthusiasts of all ages and all abilities to head to Queens Beach Skate Park this weekend for live demonstrations, tutorials, and a free sausage sizzle.

The Skateboarding Workshop will begin Saturday for beginners from the ages of 5-17 from 2.00pm to 3.15pm, then invites Intermediates from age eight upwards to join on the same day from 3.45pm to 5.00pm.

On Sunday, the park is welcoming all abilities and all ages of skateboarders from 9.30am to 11.00am before a live demonstration from a group of high-level skateboarders from ‘Rumble on the Reef’ -Mackay’s annual national skateboarding festival and competition.

Bowen PCYC Branch Manager and Police Sergeant Michelle O’Regan said they are excited to be able to continue working alongside the Rumble team to bring these workshops to Bowen.

“Donny Fraser, who is a part of the Australian Skateboarding Community Initiative, and the Rumble Team have a wealth of experience to offer for our skateboarders in Bowen,” Sergeant O’Regan said.

“We are extremely lucky to have them – it’s even made me consider jumping on a skateboard!”

The Skateboarding Workshop is currently the last of its kind planned for 2023, though Sergeant O’Regan said more were “in the works” and the PCYC will host a skateboarding competition in June.

What: Skateboarding Workshop

When: Saturday, April 1 from 2.00pm, and Sunday, April 2 from 9.30am

Where: Queens Beach Skate Park

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Bowen PCYC will host a Skateboarding Workshop at Queens Beach Skate Park this weekend

It was one year ago that the Mackay community excitedly came together to check out the new watering hole in town, Red Dog Brewery.

Offering fresh and flavourful beers made onsite, as well as a unique range of independent spirits and drinks, Red Dog clearly filled a gap in the market because, one year on, the brewery is going stronger than ever and is excited to invite everyone back for a big first birthday celebration.

Celebrations will kick off with beers pouring from 1:00pm tomorrow, Saturday April 1.

The brewery’s “Win Your Weight in Beer” promotion will get underway at 4:00pm, with draws every half hour until the main draw at 7:00pm, followed by a headline set from local band Wild Sky to entertain crowds into the night.

Head Brewer Jamie “Woodsy” Woods reflected on the year; the result of a bold decision to leave his office job and follow his passion for beer.

“It’s been a great ride so far,” he said.

“Everyone’s been really supportive, and we just keep doing what we do, and people keep showing up and supporting us.”

Throughout the year, the team at Red Dog has experimented with 10 different beers, all suited to the Mackay market, with their red ale even claiming 34th spot in the GABS Aussie Craft Beers New Releases Hottest 100.

The newest drop launches tomorrow, a session XPA that has become Jamie’s favourite.

“It’s a mid-strength, hoppy American pale ale,” he said.

“It’s right where I want it to be; it’s not super heavy in terms of alcohol content but it’s got all the flavours that you want in a craft beer.

“I think it’ll be popular.”

You may have also enjoyed a schooner of Red Dog at other venues including Hotel Mackay, The Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Bar 94, Rare and Mackay Golf Club, with the brewery selling wholesale throughout the region.

They’ve also expanded to include a truck bar and are about to begin canning their beers, so enjoying a Red Dog beer is about to become easier than ever.

Not only has Red Dog provided the Mackay community with a unique watering hole, but the brewery has fostered many local musicians over the year, serving as an ideal location for live music.

The brewery has extended their license area for tomorrow’s celebrations and will have the pizza kitchen pumping out delicious hot pizzas.

“For those people that are thinking, ‘Should we come?’ definitely come out because we’ve got plenty of extra space for everyone,” Jamie said.

After a year of highlights, celebrations and memories made, Jamie is looking forward to commemorating the milestone in style and said there’s more to come.

“There’s something exciting in the works that we’ll be able to share with everyone shortly,” he said.

WHAT: Red Dog Brewery’s 1st Birthday

WHEN: Saturday, April 1 from 1:00pm

WHERE: Red Dog Brewery

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Woodsy and the team are celebrating one year ofRed Dog Brewery tomorrow. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Friday 31 March

Autumn Orchid Show

Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm and Saturday, 8:00am to 3:00pm

Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc presents their Autumn Orchid Show at the Sporting Wheelies Hall. Orchids for sale. Pots, Potting Medium, Tags etc. Orchid Culture Demonstrations. $2 coin donation. Raffles Email: mdos.secretary@gmail.com. Phone 0435002990. Webpage: www.mdos.com.au.

Sporting Wheelies Hall, 78 Bridge Road, South Mackay

CASA Monthly BBQ

Friday, 10:00am to 12:00pm

Come down for a snag and a yarn.

CASA - Community Accommodation & Support Agency Inc.

Open Mic Night

Friday, 7:00pm

The headliner for Open Mic Night is Patricia O’Brien-Price visiting from Maryborough, with MC Deanne from North Queensland hosting the night. If you have thought about giving stand-up comedy a go, send Mackay Open Mic Comedy Group a Facebook message and they will put you on the list (strictly five minutes or less). Doors open at 7PM. $10 Entry at the door.

Ambassador Hotel

Film & Arts Mackay Film Night: FULL TIME

Friday, 7:30pm

The marvellous Laure Calamy demonstrates the phenomenal range of her talents in writer/director Eric Gravel’s gripping new drama FULL TIME, as a single woman pushed to her limits when the delicate balance between her home and work life is upended. AGM prior to screening from 7.00pm.

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

Karlie Wise Live at the Seabreeze Hotel

Friday, 8:30pm to 11:30pm

Cap off your work week at the Seabreeze Hotel and dance the night away.

Seabreeze Hotel

Saturday 1 April

Mackay Cutters Round Four

Saturday, 9:15am

9:15am | GATES OPEN. 10:00am |Cyril Connell Challenge. 11:30am | Mal Meninga Cup. 1:00pm | Harvey Norman Women's. 2:30pm | Hastings Deering Colts (TRIAL). 4:15pm |BMD Premiership. 6:15pm | Hostplus Cup. Get around game day and cheer on the Cutters as they take on CQ Capras.

BB Print Stadium

Come, Try N Play Wheelchair Rugby League

Saturday, 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Wheelchair Rugby League is not just a sport for people with disabilities. It is an inclusive sport that is a variation of the rugby league running game. People with and without disabilities play on the same team. Men, women, boys and girls can all play Wheelchair Rugby League. NRL Wheelchair invites you to come along and try this all-inclusive recreational activity. Whether you are interested in playing, volunteering or supporting – or would like to know more about the game – everyone is welcome. People who register and attend will receive a free participation pack. This is the perfect way to see what the sport is all about.

Mackay PCYC

Red Dog Brewery’s 1st Birthday

Saturday, 1:00pm

Celebrate one year of fine brews at Red Dog Brewery. With plenty of prizes on offer, the pizza kitchen open and Wild Sky performing from 7, it’s sure to be a worthy celebration.

Red Dog Brewery

SUNDAY 2 APRIL

Calen Chappy Chat and Dedication Service

Sunday, 12.30pm-1.30pm Chappy Chat

Sunday, 2.15pm Dedication of signage and school chaplain

Join the Calen Uniting Church for their free Chappy Chat informal question and answer session at lunchtime.

Stay on into the afternoon for a church service and sumptuous afternoon tea with Lesley Tunnah on guitar, children’s talk and activities, and a dedication of new signage with signwriter Maree Gutschlag and Alun Tunnah as the new Calen District State School Chaplain. All welcome!

Calen Uniting Church, 42 McIntyre Street, Calen

Monday 3 April

Free Eggciting Easter Activities

Monday to Saturday

Hippity hop, Easter’s on its way and Caneland Central have plenty of FREE Easter Activities to keep your little ones entertained! You can get your face painted, enjoy crafts, meet the Easter bunny and take part in the Mega Easter Egg Hunt!

Caneland Central

Free Teen Confidence Building Workshop

Wednesday, 9:00am to 3:00pm

First day of school holidays and what better way to start the two weeks off than with a fun-filled day learning all things self-confidence and Teen building. Phil will guide you in how to feel good within yourself, stand up and be proud, work through certain situation and stand strong and proud. Phil’s training style is second to none and he just gets the Teens. He is enthusiastic to make a change in our Teenagers’ lives. Your teen will be wanting to come back for more.

Get It Done Training

Tuesday 4 April

Yoga for Youth

Tuesday, 4:45pm to 5:45pm

Welcoming all teens aged 12 - 18 to the Yoga for Youth Class over the school holidays. Join in for a 60-minute Vinyasa (flowing) Yoga Class exclusively for teens. This class is suitable for beginners through to advanced yoga students and is a safe and supportive space for teens to explore the many benefits of yoga, to connect with other teens and more importantly, yourself. BYO: yoga mat and water bottle. Attire: Comfortable clothing for movement. $10 per student. Online bookings essential as tickets are capped.

Mackay Northern Beaches State High School

Wednesday 5 April

Soul Jam Wednesdays at The Kooyong Hotel

Every Wednesday, 6:00pm to 11:00pm

Soul Jam has an intimate room to itself where they will be hosting another friendly space to share your originals, jam with others and experiment with music. They supply a drummer and guitarist, bass also available. All artists are welcome including Slam Poetry and comedians.

The Kooyong Hotel

Mackay Farmers’ Market

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

The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce 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. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four-step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 6 April

Chair Yoga in North Mackay

Every Thursday, 2:00pm

Using a chair for support (either sitting or standing) Chair Yoga is a practice of gentle movement, combined with mindful breathing & meditation. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to focus on a gentle, nurturing practice. Chair Yoga can improve your balance, flexibility, concentration & strength while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain. Bookings are essential. Call or text your full name to 0434 940 300 or message the Wellness With Deb Facebook page.

Palmview Village Community Centre, via Oasis Drive / Bradford St.

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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Entries are now open for Mackay`s prestigious Woollam Art on Show Awards.

Mackay Show Association announced the launch of Mackay`s highly popular, non- acquisitive 2023 National Art Prize, returning August 4-7, with new additions to further highlight art and culture in the region.

Celebrating seventeen years of art excellence, The Mackay Show Association’s initiative behind establishing The Art on Show Awards was to take the arts to a higher level of professionalism within the context of a community art competition in the show “arena”.

The Association strives to seek a significant level of participation from artists locally, interstate and nationwide while providing a high standard of presentation.

Art on Show plays an integral part in Mackay’s cultural future as a high-profile arts event and provides an educational role, raising awareness and promoting the arts to patrons who attend the event and the Mackay Regional Show.

The Art on Show Awards have five sections of entry with the major prize the Woollam Art on Show Award being $3,000 and the total prize purse increasing to $12,000.

As always, Mackay Show Association has secured the services of a high-profile judge with nationally and internationally acclaimed Australian artist Anneke Silver judging this year’s competition.

Townsville Artist Dr. Anneke Silver loves the tropical North as a place to live, and the diversities of subject matter it offers, from interpretations of landscape to rainforests, vast expanses of the outback as well as the typical architecture.

Most of her life has been divided between art practice and art teaching, enjoying the interaction between the two.

Art on Show is the starting point for many local artists to exhibit and launch their careers, also focusing on unearthing new talent amongst emerging high school senior art students by working closely with our region’s Art Educators

All works will also be available for purchase during the exhibition.

Art on Show will open on the evening of Friday, August 4 and the exhibition will be open until Monday, August 7.

Visit artonshow.com.au for more information and to enter.

WHAT: Art on Show

WHERE: Mackay Showgrounds

WHEN: Friday, August 4 until Monday, August 7

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Winner of the 2022 Art on Show Award Artist Emily Jayne Carroll and her work entitled Fredrick

Artist Dr Anneke Silver, nationally and internationally acclaimed Australian artist, will judge the 2023 Art on Show Awards competition

Coordinator Melissa Broadhurst and Cynthia Williams view entries in 2022 exhibition. Photos supplied

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Meet The Dancers

Part 3

Mackay Hospital Foundation is well-known for signature events that bring the community together, and Dancing With Heart is no different.

Tonight, Friday March 31, eight local identities will take to the dance floor to showcase their individual dance styles in support of our local hospitals.

Each dancer has been working with Dolly Louw from Fame Talent School to fine tune their skills on the dance floor, with each dance choreographed especially for the individual performer.

Read on to meet the last two dancers taking to the dancefloor tonight and the dance teacher behind it all.

Kay Nyenuh – Muscle Garden

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

Dancing is not something I’d usually put my hand up for let alone doing it on stage in front of a crowd! But anyone who knows me well would know that I’d do anything for charity, especially for the Mackay Hospital Foundation. So here we are!

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is amazing. I am not a natural at a lot of things and dancing is definitely one of those but what I don’t have a shortage of is the ability to put in the work to get better. Dolly is patient and she knows her stuff so we’re getting there.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

I don’t know about getting on the dance floor but I can definitely move my body to any RnB, Hip Hop or any Rock song with a good beat and sound, lyrics and melody.

What is your go to dance move?

I’m African so dancing with the hips is a given.

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

Given that they’re working with Dolly, I think it’ll be very entertaining.

Cathy Sullivan – Mount Pleasant

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

I am very passionate about the Mackay Community and like to do what I can to help where I can.  At Mount Pleasant, we are committed to giving back to our community and this is one way I can do that, by raising funds for the Hospital Foundation and having some fun at the same time.

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is an amazing teacher and I am learning so much! She is very patient. I have about 80% of the dance done, now I need to practice what I’ve learnt so far to be ready for the final moves.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

I can’t let an opportunity to do the Nutbush pass me by.

What is your go to dance move?

I don’t really have one, although if I don’t really know the song, a bit of a side step sway will do!

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

I’m expecting nothing but the best from everyone on the night. We are all community-oriented people and although everyone is extremely nervous, like me, they are all willing to step outside their comfort zones to provide the audience with a once in a lifetime show!

Dolly Louw – Dance Teacher (Fame Talent School)

How and why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

I was contacted by the Hospital Foundation to see if I would be interested in choreographing and training the dancers. I had heard a similar charity event had been held in Brisbane and that it was a huge success. I love helping out and thought it was a great opportunity for me.  

How has your work with all the dancers been?

It’s been an absolute blast. I have enjoyed meeting and getting to know everyone. Dancing on stage really takes you out of your comfort zone. The dancers have all worked hard and are bringing lots of energy to their performances. The audience is going to love it. It’s very hard to compare teaching adults for performances like this, with teaching my regular students. These guys are complete novices, but the really cool thing is, they can dance better than they ever imagined they could.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

I love all 80s music.

What is your go to dance move?

I love a good chair dance.

This has been pretty epic to put this show together because everybody works different hours and personally, I am busy with the studio and family life. My Fame backup dancers have been fabulous and have given up their free time to come and rehearse on both weekdays and Sundays. I really appreciate the effort they have put in. On the night, I hope we raise the roof and a whole lot of money for the Hospital Foundation. It’s a very grassroots and practical cause.

WHAT: Dancing With Heart

WHERE: MECC

WHEN: Tonight, Friday March 31

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See Gallery here

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Dungeons And Dragons: Honour Among Thieves

If you put all the prosaic fantasy stuff into a soup (all the goblins and taverns and caverns, magic whatsits and wyverns and wizards) then served it in the Witch King’s helmet, you’d have this ghoulish goulash they call Dungeons and Dragons. An apocryphal, derivative, generic fantasy thing -that ends up, somehow, surprisingly edible -- in fact, it’s quite delicious.

I jest, though, in some respects. Dungeons and Dragons is not so simplistic and thieving as that. Because all those fantasy genre tropes, those cliches and old chestnuts, either came into being through the famed boardgame or were brought back in fashion by it.

For almost 50 years, Dungeon’s and Dragons has been a cultural touchstone for fantasy nerds everywhere, whether you’d played it or not. And now, for the second time in two decades, it has received a big-screen adaptation: “Dungeons and Dragons: Honour Among Thieves”. This time, it’s courtesy of John Francis Daley and Jonathon Goldstein who took pointers from the start of this review: they packed the whole kit and kaboodle into this one.

They knew they didn’t need to reinvent the sword to make a good Dungeons and Dragons film. Stack in the traditional elements, throw in a few comedically charged dragons and singing, and watch the dice fly.

We follow the charming thief (and singing bard) Edgin, played by Chris Pine, and his band of unlikely, motley adventurers as they embark on an epic quest to retrieve a long-lost relic. What could be more regular than that? It would be strange if their charming adventure didn’t go dangerously awry (which it does) and they didn’t run afoul of the wrong people (tick that box there).

By definition, this kind of film needs to look and be somewhat run of the mill. What Goldstein and Daley do to mitigate that is to throw in some curve-fireballs, a few D1 and D20 rolls on the dice, and some heartful moments punctuated by quippy humour. It all adds up to make Dungeons and Dragons: Honour Among Thieves, a ridiculous romp of fantastical proportions.

Dungeons and Dragons: Honour Among Thieves is showing from March 31 at the Bowen Summergarden Cinema

Review Written by Declan Durrant

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Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, and Justice Smith in ‘Dungeons And Dragons: Honour Among Thieves’

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Two tantalisingly talented Aussie television darlings of the early and mid-2000s will make a combined eight appearances at The Airlie Beach Hotel across April and May, rolling back the years to when they captured the hearts of the nation as finalists in X-Factor and Australian Idol.

As part of The Pub’s patented Acoustic Sessions – which weekly feature Whitsunday musos – the smooth songs of Idol Top Four finisher Dan England and X-Factor runner-up Andrew Wishart will take to the Bar Top Stage.

England, who shot to stardom in 2005 as one of Australian Idol’s most popular finalists, will play on Friday, March 31 to April 3, in a solo-act showing, with Wishart – a storied career vocalist with X-Factor credentials – playing The Pub from May 4 to 7.

In the early oughts, England could be spotted for his trademark dreadlocks during his remarkable time on Australian Idol, where he was eliminated from the show by a mere 27 votes – the closest ever in Idol history, and not without its controversy.

After the highly successful run on air, England continued creating his remarkable story, honing his songs and playing to tens of thousands of people in towns and cities across Australia, and now he’ll be at The Airlie Beach Hotel for the first time.

England, a Queenslander through and through, said he’s excited to be heading up the coast to bring his smooth acoustic rock to the Whitsundays.

“What Idol gave me over the years was more than I could ever imagine,” Dan said.

"To be able to still perform after almost 20 years, putting smiles on people's faces with classics and current hits, there’s nothing like it. I can’t wait to bring that to Airlie Beach.

Then Melbourne-based singer-songwriter Andrew Wishart will arrive at The Airlie Beach Hotel to entertain the crowds as he has around Australia for more than 25 years.

With his mixture of classic songs from the ‘70s onwards, Wishart will remind audiences why he beat out more than 30,000 plus hopefuls to be Runner Up on the top-rating reality show, The X Factor.

He’ll smash out some of his tunes from ‘It’s Never Too Late’, which went top 15 in the Australian Aria charts, and all of the classics he’s mastered since the early days of his musical journey at the age of 14.

Wishart said he “lives and breathes music, playing the guitar, and wowing crowds” with his dynamic vocals, interpretations, stage wit, and engagement.

Don’t miss these superstars when they arrive at The Airlie Beach Hotel over the next two months.

What: Australian Idol top four finalist Dan England and X-Factor Australia finalist Andrew Wishart

Where: Airlie Beach Hotel

When:

Thurs Mar 30: Solo 6.30pm - 9.30pm – Dan England

Fri Mar 31: Solo  7-10pm Dan England

Sat Apr 1: Solo  7-10pm Dan England

Sun Apr 3: Solo  7-10pm Dan England

Thurs May 4: Solo  6.30pm - 9.30pm – Andrew Wishart

Fri May 5: Solo  7-10pm Andrew Wishart

Sat May 6: Solo  7-10pm Andrew Wishart

Sun May 7: Solo  7-10pm Andrew Wishart

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Mackay’s newest sporting arena, Great Barrier Reef Arena, was opened in emphatic style last Saturday at Harrup Park’s Party in the Park.

With live music from Wild Sky and Graeme Connors, amusement rides, activities, fireworks and the DBCT Poole Cup Cricket final, it was impossible not to get excited.

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Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Meet The Dancers

Part 2

Mackay Hospital Foundation is well-known for signature events that bring the community together, and Dancing With Heart is no different.

On Friday March 31, eight local identities will take to the dance floor to showcase their individual dance styles in support of our local hospitals.

Each dancer has been working with Dolly Louw from Fame Talent School to fine tune their skills on the dance floor, with each dance choreographed especially for the individual performer.

Read on to meet three more dancers.

Tegan Jones – Dysart Hospital

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

I am the Business Manager at the Dysart Hospital and the health and wellbeing of our community, especially our kids, is very important to me. I am the boots on the ground seeing the work that our clinical and support staff do to provide a service to our patients. We are working really hard to continuously improve, there are always new ways to support patients and families in their journey through the health system. Of course, everything costs money, so having the Hospital Foundation behind us to support equipment purchases and facility upgrades to improve the experience of patients at our facility is amazing!

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Well, I can't dance so it's not going well honestly. My first lesson with Dolly is actually on Monday, so I feel very sorry for her!

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

As they say out here in Dysart, there are only two types of music, Country and Western. But I also enjoy heavy metal and the boys from Booyah did get me into Hooligan Hefs.

What is your go to dance move?

My go-to dance move is definitely the two step, however my line manager did show me a move called the shopping trolley last week so I will have to practice that one.

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

Well, I have heard that Cathy has already had 5 lessons, and Bing just opened a karaoke bar, so he has his own practice space. It's going to be such a great night.

I am flying the flag for the rural health services, from Prossie, Bowen, Collinsville, Sarina, Moranbah, Clermont, Middlemount and of course through to Dysart. We are all supported by the Mackay Hospital Foundation so get behind your local hospital by donating today!

Renae Kunst – Queensland Rugby League

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

The lovely Brenda from the Mackay Hospital foundation reached out to me to assist although she may have failed to mention I would be dancing after already agreeing. How could I say no when it goes to such a great cause.

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is such a gem human being and so patient. I am hopeless but she keeps me laughing (actually I think this is the other way around)

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

This is the thing; I have never been the dancing type so I am well out of my comfort zone

What is your go to dance move?

I have always had a huge appreciation for the athleticism on display from dances, unfortunately none of these skills pertain to me.

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

I have meant this wonderful bunch of people and I am sure they will put their best foot forward. It will be a fun and eventful night that will contribute to the wonderful work the organisation does.

Paul Manttan – Mackay West State School

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?  

As Principal of a local primary school, I know all too well about the important role of Mackay Hospital Foundation and their support of patients and families, particularly kids.

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is a superstar taking on the challenge of teaching me to follow some dance moves.  She’s a very patient lady and I can only hope I do her proud on the night of Dancing with Heart.  I think the dance is coming along quite well, others may not agree….  Whatever the case, it will be very entertaining I’m sure.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?  

I can’t go past “Low” for Flo Rida.  

What is your go to dance move?

The sprinkler is definitely my favourite.  Sometimes the shopping trolley comes out after a few cordials!

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?  

I’m expecting that all the dancers will be well rehearsed and pumped for the night by the time 31st March comes around.  I’m sure we’re going to see some personality coming out in the dances as the night rolls on.  

Don’t forget to grab next week’s paper for the final profiles.

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STARFLEET International officially opened its Star Trek Mackay Chapter USS Pacifica during a function last Saturday at the Mackay Surf Club.

The commissioning comes after a nine month “Shake Down” where members have built rapport and relationships while adapting to their various roles.

For over 40 years STARFLEET International has provided Star Trek fans a way to meet each other, make friends, have fun, give back to their communities and show that the dream of Gene Roddenberry can live long and prosper.

“On the local level members can gather with other fans for a variety of enjoyable activities,” revealed Captain Matthew Perna.

“The USS Pacifica is the newest addition to the fleet, comprised of members based in and around Central Queensland.

“We are a family orientated Chapter and enjoy meeting up at conventions, recreating the costumes and props of the shows and to share our love of Star Trek – and other pop culture too.

“We welcome all forms of Star Trek from the classic 1960s Trek to the current New Trek movies and TV shows.”

The group meets on the second Sunday each month at the Haven Gaming & Pop Culture store in Sydney Street Mackay from 11am.

For further enquiries email: info@usspacifica.org.au

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USS Pacifica members Captain Matthew Perna, Executive Officer Jess O’Neill, Chief of Tactical Lt Jason Heart, Chief of Engineering Lt Scott Marshall, Chief Medical Lt Lulu Mollis, Junior Grade Communications Officer Lt Alana McAnulty, Chief of Communications Lt Trevor May, Engineering Officer Crewman Felicia Scott, Marcus Perna and Emily Perna

Captain Matthew Perna and Executive Officer Jess O’Neill at the official opening of Mackay’s new Star Trek Chapter USS Pacifica at Mackay Surf Club. Photo credit: Chris Karas

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The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) kicked off “Take a Child to the Theatre Day” this week by giving away yo-yos and bookmarks to all children who visit the box office between Monday March 20th and Saturday March 25.

Take a Child to the Theatre Day is an annual day of celebration, to encourage families to introduce children to the benefits and enchantment of live theatre.

MECC and Events Manager Andrew Bobeldyk said the yo-yo and bookmark giveaways are the MECC’s way to welcome new faces into the building.

“We want all families to feel welcomed when they visit our theatre,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“If you haven’t been to the MECC before, come along and say hello.

“Our box office team will welcome all children with a yo-yo and a bookmark,” he said.

It’s no surprise that theatre promotes education and literacy.

Studies have shown theatre can motivate a child to read more, increasing their comprehension levels and their ability to connect with a story.

Each year, the DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season brings stage adaptations of popular children’s books to the MECC stage.

Previous years have included performances The Hungry Caterpillar, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and Pete the Sheep.

“The 2023 season includes Possum Magic, Just Live, Wind in the Willows and Roald Dahl’s The Twits,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“All fantastic books, which will be brought to life with the magic of theatre.

“Sponsored by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, a family pass to any performance in DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season is $60, making it an affordable children’s theatre option.”

Families are advised they do not need to make a purchase to receive free yo-yos and bookmarks for their children.

Simply visit the box office, say hello, and the staff will welcome you with a smile, a bookmark and a yo-yo.

Offer ends Saturday March 25 at 1pm.

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