Sixth time Airlie Beach Festival of Music veteran, Matty Rogers is back by popular demand and ready to carve up the main stage – this year marking the first time he is bringing his band along too!

Based in Burringbar in the Northern Rivers of NSW, this blues, soul and country singer says he likes to “weave a path in between genres” and that each song is more about “meaning” than it is conforming to a certain style.

“I don’t like to get stuck in a box,” said Matty.

“I play loads of different genres and they all come from emotion and connection – the challenges we might face personally and also as a global society.”

Matty began playing music with his father when he was a child and by high school he was playing with friends, starting his first band ‘Ramjet’ when he was 17.

Writing his own lyrics and playing original music whenever he could, Matty soon began carving a name out for himself.

“I was lucky that the first gig where I played all originals went really well,” he explained.

“I owe everything to that gig – it gave me the confidence to keep writing and forging a career playing originals when everyone else played covers.”

Matty spent 10 years playing gigs part time and earning an extra income in the construction trade as a labourer and landscaper.

For the past eight years, however, he has been playing gigs full-time, sharing music with audiences throughout the Northern Rivers and Gold Coast.

He has a wife called Cedar and a young boy called Riley.

Next weekend Matty will be playing on the main stage at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music and also some of the venues across town.

He brings with him a drummer, bass player and organ player to complete the band.

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Quick Quiz:

Favourite band of all time: Eagles

Least favourite song: Happy Birthday

Favourite song to play: Tennessee Whisky as a cover and Walk to the Water as an original

Last song you listened to: Something by Lauren Kate

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Matty Rogers and his band are appearing live at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music next weekend

After months of anticipation, the Young Whitsundays Got Talent Grand Final took place on Sunday and young songstress, 18-year-old Mackay local Tiffany Grace, took the crown.

Event organiser, Paula Hovey, said that every performer shone on the day, but it was Tiffany’s delivery, stage presence and confidence that really made her stand out from the rest.

“There was really not much between them,” she said.

“It was more confidence and stage experience with Tiffany – she had the overall package; she played the guitar and she sung an original track.”

This is the first time in 11 years of performing live that Tiffany has taken home an accolade and the modest teenager said that she didn’t expect to win.

“I like to play whenever I can, I love getting experience and sharing my music with people,” she said.

“I’m always very nervous but when I step onto the stage it feels like I flick a switch.”

Tiffany was born and raised in Mackay and says that she does not come from a musical family although her mum likes to sing but not in public.

She took her first singing lesson at six and has since discovered a passion for sharing her music with others.

Tiffany played ‘Lover’ by Taylor Swift on the day and also her original track ‘Perfectly Imperfect’.

“The song is based on past experiences where people would judge me for small things,” said Tiffany.

“It would really affect me but then I realised those are all the things that make me who I am, and they all need to work on being the best versions of themselves.”

For winning first place, Tiffany will receive a full make-over with hair and make-up followed by a photo shoot.

She will also get to experience backstage at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

All the finalists will perform live on the Fish Jam stage at the festival as well.

“I would like to say thank you to the organisers for the opportunity and also to the other contestants, they were amazing and they should keep it up!” said Tiffany.

Close runners up on the day were band MYNVY, followed by soloist Dominik, who is also the lead singer of MYNVY.

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Tiffany Grace, winner of Young Whitsundays Got Talent standing with the judges

Second place band MYNVY.

Photo credit: Kelly-Anne Koolstra

Tropical shirt? Tick. Pina colada? Double tick. The Race That Stops The Nation? Triple tick, tick, tick!

The Melbourne Cup is galloping ever closer and Airlie Beach is set to be the starting line for locals with The Pub celebrating the iconic event in style with a ‘Tropical Party’ for the ages.

The Airlie Beach Hotel will host one of the Whitsundays’ biggest ever Melbourne Cup events, built around the iconic day’s racing action, loud and live on the big screen at The Pub’s sports bar, flanked by food, betting, good vibes, music, and raffles.

The country’s biggest and most famous annual thoroughbred race is a sight to behold in itself, but the celebrations at the far end of Airlie Esplanade are looking to top the spectacle with the Airlie Beach Hotel’s Melbourne Cup Tropical Party on Tuesday, November 1.

Indulgence has a name: a three-hour drinks package, a mouth-watering, all-you-can-eat Seafood Buffet with an impressive range of seafood, smoked and BBQ meats, salads and dessert, and an after-party of live entertainment courtesy of GEED Up.

There’s everything punters and fashionistas could wish for: Fashions on the Field, Sweeps, TAB betting facilities, and a business card draw and raffle, both chock full of prizes like two-person Jetski tours, tandem skydiving, family photoshoots and flight and rafting packages, as well as Champagne Magnums.

Put on your Tuesday best – a duck tail tux, perhaps? – or dress-down with a vibrant Hawaiian shirt and get ready for surprises in the form of party games.

The excitement starts with the TAB opening at 8am before the Melbourne Cup Courtesy Buses bring in the crowds starting at 9 – an earlier time than normal. The 18 plus event kicks its drink package into gear from 10am to 1pm – and it’s recommended to arrive at 9.30am.

And then, after all the excitement of the thoroughbred racing comes to an end, the after-party will kick into gear with GEED Up – fan favourites of the locals’ favourite local that are an act like no other.

With their vocal versatility, Khan, Steve, and Mat can cater to any crowd with their show-stopping dance moves which are guaranteed to get everyone up, about and dancing. Hailing from the Gold Coast GEED UP are a regular feature at venues like Eat Street and Miami Marketta and have toured both nationally and internationally.

GEED UP are known for their polished three-piece harmonies, the blend of their unique vocal styles, and they’ll begin their incredible show straight after the cup telecast.

WHAT: Melbourne Cup Tropical Party

WHERE: The Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Tuesday, November 1 from 9.30am

TICKETS: Online at www.whitsundaytickets.com.au

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The Airlie Beach Hotel are bringing back their annual Melbourne Cup Tropical Party!

Locals’ favourite local is turning The Race That Stops The Nation into a Whitsunday-themed day of entertainment, drinks, and good eatin’

Catch the races, the raffles, and the entertainment courtesy of fan-favourites GEED Up on November 1

Photo credit: Leandra Mollica

There’s plenty in store for The Race That Stops The Nation this week, with events popping up all over the Whitsundays – especially in the coastal town of Airlie Beach.

You could glam up or keep it casual at any of the smorgasbord line-up of events across the region, just bring yourself, enjoy the Cup atmosphere, and these venues will bring the fun, drinks, and the excitement on November 1.

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Reef Gateway

If you’re wanting to catch all the race-day action from Flemington, there’s no better place to do it than by spending Melbourne Cup with the Reef Gateway Hotel.

For punters, the TAB opens bright and early from 9am, flanked by race-day themed specials on drinks and meals – including a full A-la-cart menu to look forward to at 12pm to 2pm.

And, for those looking for a fashion on the field equivalent, the Reef Gateway will dish out fancy dress prizes alongside the race-day fun.

There’s plenty more set for the festivities at the local hotel, so make sure to book your spot for the Melbourne Cup at The Reef Gateway.

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La Tabella

But, where can I frock up, enjoy a good day out and try my luck at picking the winning horses? Well, there’s a place with Airlie Beach’s finest Italian food just for that.

Catch all the race action while feasting on some inspired cuisine which will have their full a la carte menu on offer – with no fixed pricing.

Set up right on Airlie Esplanade, enjoy a fine drop of wine while soaking up the atmosphere, and even get together with some friends for a seat at Nona’s Long Table.

If you’re wanting to celebrate The Race That Stops The Nation in style, head to La Tabella Trattoria for their Melbourne Cup Day Lunch.

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Whisper Gin Bar

When you’re watching the Melbourne Cup, you’re not usually being treated to a world-class view across the Coral Sea, unless, of course, your pick is Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar.

Tucked away in the glamorous luxury hotel of Mirage Whitsundays, this restaurant is ensconced in beautiful architecture, fringed by palm trees, and boasts an outdoor pool where locals will be spending a luxurious, mimosa-filled Melbourne Cup.

Live and loud on two screens and flanked by the stunning ocean view, watching the Melbourne Cup is a breeze at the Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar.

The free entry event will host delicious meals, cocktails, an incredible view, and plenty of fun.

Opening early for buffet breakfast from 6.30am to 9.30am, the full Melbourne Cup kicks into gear from 10am onwards.

And it’s simple to sign up: call or email to secure your table or simply show up and enjoy.

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The Grand View Hotel

Dress to impress in your boldest and brightest as The Race That Stops The Nation hits the Grand View Hotel, Bowen.

Indulge in great food and drinks, take part in the sweepstakes, place a bet, and catch the Grand View’s very own fashion parade sponsored by local boutique, MMOKA. There will be prizes for best dressed in bold and bright, and best of all you can tune into every second of the race day action live on the Grand View’s screens.

Bold and bright colours are strongly encouraged, and a little tip for the would-be winner: frocks for Cup Day should be colourful and perhaps a little bit daring!

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There’s plenty of action around Whitsunday venues this week as they prepare for the Melbourne Cup – where will you spend the day?

Friday 21 October

Guided walks in the gardens

Friday, 10:00am

Discover the gardens with a volunteer guide on this free guided walk around the botanic gardens. Find out what's flowering, local wildlife and the history of the gardens. Group bookings are welcome. To book your spot and find out more, phone the gardens on 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Ladies in Black

Friday, 10:30am and 7:30pm, Saturday, 2:00pm and 7:30pm, Sunday, 2:00pm

Based on the 2018 film, Ladies in Black is a coming-of-age story encouraging you to follow your dreams without ignoring the opportunities in life that appear in front of you. A studious young woman with dreams of attending university takes on a summer job in a sophisticated department store. Full of colourful characters and spectacular fashion, the ladies of the store open her eyes to the world and encourage her to believe in herself and her future. This laugh-out-loud story includes songs by award-winning composer Tim Finn. This comedy is one not to be missed. Tickets available at the door or at https://cqcm.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

Conversations with Art

Friday, 1:00pm to 2:30pm

Join a casual conversation about art, deconstructing the works, considering themes, possible techniques used by the artist, and creating links with your own personal experiences. Whether you’re an artist, an art and language lover, beginner, or expert, you are invited to attend this free, interesting, thought provoking and extremely enjoyable discussion.

Artspace Mackay

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and live music..

Wake House Australia

A-List Entertainment presents Multicultural Comedy Gala

Friday, 7:30pm

Join Australia’s favourite and emerging comedic talent as they touch on cultural identity in a concoction of comedy that pokes fun at what makes us all different but very much the same. The star-studded line-up includes Dilruk Jayasinha, Akmal, Steph Tisdell, Urvi Majumdar, Ting Lim and Simon Taylor in a hilarious celebration of Australia’s multicultural diversity.

MECC

Saturday 22 October

Jumble Sale at the Marian Bowls Club

Saturday, 7:00am to 1:00pm

Lots of bargains plus plants, cake and craft stalls and a sausage sizzle. Also, morning tea available. All welcome. All proceeds to the Bowling Club.

Marian Bowls Club, Reg Smith Street, Marian

Global Grooves 2022

Saturday, 3:00pm to 8:00pm

Travel the world in a single afternoon and celebrate our diverse cultural communities that together make up our proud Mackay region. The annual community event will feature an array of performances from multicultural artists, local community groups, and a range of talented musicians. Get your groove on or take part in the many activities and workshops on offer. Browse the market stalls or tantalise your tastebuds with a range of both local and exotic foodie delights. This event is not to be missed! Find out more, visit Mackay Festivals Facebook page.

Queens Park

Pocket Sessions - Spring 2022

Saturday, 4:00pm to 11:00pm

Join in for the second live, original music event set in the lush rainforest of Cameron's Pocket. Featuring The Basecoats, Weathered, David Flower Band, Gypsy Rambler, Woodbridge Music and Aaron Preston with a special guest appearance by Tattyfaez Ablaze!

Tickets on sale now!.

Camerons Pocket Rd, Calen QLD 4798, Australia

Sunday 23 October

Food Forest Fest

Sunday, 10:00am to 3:00pm

Mackay Community Gardens presents Food Forest Fest. Join us in the celebration of the life of spring. This gathering is centred around the region's diversity, permaculture, music, healing, food, and local handcrafted and homegrown market stalls. This is a family event with lots of education, creating, and play.

Mackay Community Gardens

Pioneer Bonsai Mackay Workshops

Sunday, 1:00pm to 4:00pm

Pioneer Bonsai Mackay hold their monthly bonsai workshops at the Botanic Gardens Meeting Room. If you enjoy the fellowship of bonsai or are interested in learning more, please come along. New members are welcome. For more information, please contact Michael Watt via email mackaybonsai@bigpond.com.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Sunday Live Music

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.

Seabreeze Hotel

BABBA – An International ABBA Spectacular

Sunday, 5:00pm

For 26 years BABBA have been thrilling audiences worldwide with their superb recreation of 70s super group ABBA and the legacy of hits they gave us. Bring your dancing shoes, dust off your flares and join the party as we celebrate all the iconic hits of ABBA.

MECC

Tuesday 25 October

United Nations Day - Celebrations at World Cafe

Tuesday, 10:00am to 12:30pm

This year’s United Nations Day theme is "Resilience of Older Persons in a changing world".

People all around the world will come together and celebrate the day with ceremony and show in various cities in different countries and the Neighbourhood Hub will be doing exactly that with national costumes, flags, food, dance, culture and sharing stories. Wear your national costume/dress/attire and bring along a national artifact to share with the group. Come and celebrate - RSVP to elam@tnhub.org.au for catering purposes.

The Neighbourhood Hub

Wednesday 26 October

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 27 October

Halloween Scavenger Hunt

Thursday, 4:00pm to 7:00pm

Join for a self-guided Trick or Treat Scavenger Hunt around the Centre this Halloween. Bring the kids along and hunt treats at your own pace, simply choose a time slot that suits your family. Bookings are essential and we will provide you with a Halloween map of participating stores and goodie bag for each person booked. Parents are not required to book a spot for themselves! Limited spaces available, booking is essential, book your spot now. For any enquiries, please contact our Customer Desk on 07 4944 7111.

Caneland Central

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Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

The inaugural Beach Sounds Music Festival saw Hawaiian shirts and pluggers flock to the Mackay Surf Life Saving Club to enjoy a beautiful day of live music.

The festival brought musicians from all over Australia including Dallas Crane, The Double Happiness and Mackay’s Bella Mackenzie.

The event raised funds for the Mackay Surf Life Saving Club and is hoped to be the first of many.

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Using over 100,000 beads, local artist Louise Carter has created a wide variety of artworks for her new exhibition Seed Beads.

Seed Beads opens today, October 21, at the Jubilee Community Centre on what happens to be Louise’s birthday and runs until November 1.

The exhibition features a variety of sculptures made entirely from beads and thread.

“Almost all of my sculptures are self-supporting and are contemporary geometric forms, so there’s a lot of 3D shapes,” Louise said.

The exhibition will feature her shape series in which she attempts to create as many different shapes as possible.

There will also be an interactive element to the exhibition, with Louise creating a ‘stargazer’ out of silver and gold beads creating the effect of the night sky when looked into.

There will also be small geometric shapes that move similar to fidget spinners called kaleidocycles that Louise has created as well as miniature dresses.

Louise has always been creative but discovered beading in her late teens through workshops at Spotlight, later discovering a 3D bead ball on the internet and deciding to give it a go.

“It was a bit of a challenge, but it was really cool trying to figure it out, so that’s how I got started,” she said.

Louise has used the last 14 years or so to hone her craft and diversify her skillset.

“I really like figuring out the form and experimenting and exploring where things will go,” she said.

“A lot of people work out a pattern beforehand and I just have an idea and go from there and sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn’t.”

Louise is involved in an international group called the Beadworker’s Guild and is the Guild’s youngest guest ambassador to date.

She is running an international art project through the Guild which involves over 100 participants.

“Everyone’s making 2D pentagons which I’ll then make into a big, large shape so I will actually have some of the pentagons on display at the exhibition,” she said.

It will be a taste of what people can expect when Louise displays the final product of the art project in her second exhibition in June next year.

WHAT: ‘Seed Beads’ Art Exhibition

WHERE: Jubilee Community Centre

WHEN: Friday, October 21 to Monday, November 1

This is a free event

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A celebration of pride, diversity and community will take place as the Mackay Rainbow Pride Family Fun Day takes over Queens Park next weekend.

Meeting at the Iconic Shelter at Queens Park, attendees will celebrate Mackay Pride in a safe environment with a parade around the park followed by music, entertainment, games, stalls, food and coffee vendors, local support organisations and a whole lot of colourful fun.

Mackay Rainbow Pride volunteer Hannah Lewis said the mission of the event is to support and increase awareness and visibility of the LGBTQIA+ community in Mackay and show that there is support available.

“The aim is to create a safe space for people and for them to know that they are valid in how they feel and with their sexuality,” Hannah said.

“It’s nice to have a group of people.

“I remember the first year, I was like, ‘Finally, there is something for queer people in Mackay to be a part of.’

“It’s about creating a space and making friends.”

Mackay Rainbow Pride was founded in 2020 by three women in the mental health space, Abby Chester, Beth Cooper and Tracy Connors, with the support of Anna Kahler.

“They saw that there was a gap and they said, ‘We need to fill this,’” said Mackay Rainbow Pride President Garry Thomas.

The event is now in its third year after Garry attended last year and wanted to get involved straight away, becoming president after Abby had to relinquish her duties earlier this year.

“It looked very much like we weren’t going to have an event at all,” said Garry.

“From where I stand, we need something, whether it’s big or little.

“I found some time and put my hand up for president, so we’ll do this event, another AGM and see what happens for next year.”

Mackay Rainbow Pride will also facilitate a Parkrun and a panel discussion in the lead-up to the event.

This Saturday, October 22, Mackay Rainbow Pride, On The Run Mackay and Mackay Parkrun are joining forces in a celebration of the diversity of the people that live in the region, inviting runners to wear bright colours as they complete the 5km course through Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.

Then, on Friday, Mackay Rainbow Pride are hosting a panel discussion focussing on the experience of growing up queer in the regions, featuring panelists from Mackay, Moranbah and regional New South Wales.

The Mackay Rainbow Pride Family Fun Day is sponsored by NBN Co and facilitated in partnership with Brisbane Pride Incorporated, and will feature stalls from Tropical Coast Greens, Woolworths, Feros Care, Mind Australia, headspace and Share the Dignity.

The event is free and all ages are welcome.

“There’s something there for everyone,” said Hannah.

For more information on Mackay Rainbow Pride and all of their upcoming events, visit their Facebook page.

WHAT: Mackay Rainbow Pride Family Fun Day

WHERE: Iconic Shelter, Queens Park

WHEN: Saturday, October 28 from 4:00pm to 8:00pm

This is a free community event.

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Combining and showcasing the cultures of more than a dozen proud local multicultural communities, Global Grooves is an amazing and insightful family festival.

Coming to Queens Park this Saturday, October 22, Global Grooves will feature a full stage line-up of musicians, bands, dance groups and cultural performances.

There will also be a workshop teepee and more than a dozen food vendors with exotic food options, coffee and dessert.  

Filipino community leader Vivien Hanrahan said Global Grooves presents a unique opportunity for residents.

“Mackay has many passionate multicultural communities, and they all have their festivities during the year to celebrate and showcase their cultures, but Global Grooves is special because it brings them all together and gives people a taste of a variety of cultures,” Ms Hanrahan said.

“We (the Filipino community) will be doing a lechon (rotisserie pig), which is a dish we cook at home when we have a celebration.

“When people come and try our lechon they are connecting with our culture and joining us in this celebration.”

Ms Hanrahan said not only is Global Grooves an amazing showcase of multiculturalism, but it’s also a great networking opportunity for different communities to share ideas, experiences and stories.

Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said Global Grooves gave residents the opportunity to experience a variety of multicultural home cooking styles not available anywhere else.

“It’s also a very colourful event – the costumes are sensational, and the dances and music come from across the globe,” Mr Williamson said.

“Where else will you find bagpipes and Irish dancing sharing the stage with traditional dances from the Philippines, Napal, China and Thailand?

“And the workshops on offer are equally diverse – there’s everything from ochre crushing and kokadama making to henna painting and Fijian dancing.  

“Entry is free and Queens Park is a tremendous venue with plenty of space and shade.

“It’s going to be an amazing day and we look forward to seeing a big turnout.”

Global Grooves is an alcohol-free event.

WHAT: Global Grooves

WHERE: Queens Park

WHEN: Saturday, October 22 from 3:00pm to 8:00pm

This is a free community event.

Global Grooves Main Stage

• 3pm - Mayor’s welcome

• 3.15pm - Yuwi Corporation

• 3.45pm - Piping Mad

• 4.10pm - Mackay Filipino-Australian Community

• 4.30pm - Nepalese Australian Association of Mackay

• 4.45pm - Tchundal Malar Aboriginal Dance Troupe

• 5.10pm - Sugar City Rock and Rollers Mackay

• 5.25pm - Mackay and District Pipe Band

• 5.50pm - Mackay Chinese Association

• 6.05pm - Claddagh School of Irish Dance

• 6.30pm - Mackay Chinese Association

• 6.45pm - Thai Aussie Community Mackay

• 7.10pm - Mackay Chinese Association

• 7.20pm - Will Blume

Workshop Teepee

• 3pm to 6pm – Face painters by Let’s Face It

• 3.30pm to 4.30pm - Henna workshop by Mackay Regional Council Libraries

• 3pm to 4.45pm - Ochre crushing workshop by Melanie Kemp

• 5pm to 5.45pm - Succulent Kokadama workshop by Melanie Kemp

• 6pm to 7pm - Dance workshop by the Fiji Association

For a full list of market stalls and food vendors, visit the Mackay Festivals Facebook page at facebook.com/mackayfestivals

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It’s not every day that a multi-national award-winning tourism operator decides to launch a new business in a neighbouring region, but when they do, they do it with style.

Taking home the award for Most Outstanding New Business, Wildcat Mackay is the latest offering from adventure tourism company Red Cat Adventures and they are proud to have established a solid reputation in Mackay after nearly a year of operation.

Owned by Asher and Julie Telford, who currently operate four charter boats, two land-based tours and manage Lake Proserpine Campground in the Whitsundays, their new business Wildcat Mackay started in December 2021, offering full-day island tours, school group immersive learning experiences, private charters and sunset cruises from Mackay Marina.

The purpose-built all-weather catamaran can carry up to 50 people and caters to all types of customers, from unique Christmas parties to remote island adventures.

Asher Telford said they were thrilled to win their first award for Wildcat Mackay and that it was a pleasure to bring along their eight invaluable staff to the tourism awards, many who had been involved in the planning and implementation of the tour from inception.

“Starting a new business in the middle of Covid definitely put us through a stress-test, but the end result was well-worth it,” said Asher.

“We are now really proud of what we created. This would not have been possible without assistance from the Queensland Government Growing Tourism Infrastructure grant. We are very grateful.”

“We are also proud to showcase Mackay as we are the only charter day boat operating locally and it’s great to help put Mackay on the map, encouraging people to stop-off when they travel up and down the coast,” added Julie.

Wildcat has become a local’s favourite, with 90 per cent of all passengers coming from the region.

“We are so grateful to everyone who has supported us so far,” said Julie.

“We have so many local return customers who love the tour because every day is different and we visit different locations.”

Heading to some of the most untouched and remote islands off the coast of Mackay, the Wildcat tour includes snorkelling, paddle boarding and plenty of beach time.

Everything is included on this tour – from stinger suits to a delicious locally catered lunch. There is also a licensed bar onboard.

The sunset cruise departs on the weekends from 5.30pm to 7.30pm and takes a scenic tour around the marina with stunning views across the bay as the sun fades beyond the horizon.

Their business in the Whitsundays, Red Cat Adventures, has won gold over three consecutive years at the Australian Tourism Awards and entered the prestigious Hall of Fame twice for the best Major Tour and Transport Operator and Adventure Tourism business at the 2021 Queensland awards.

Still riding the waves of this success, they have chosen not to re-enter this year and focus on raising the profile of their new business Wildcat Mackay instead.

“Ash and I would just like to thank all our hardworking staff for everything they do, the Mackay tourism industry for welcoming us and all the locals who have supported us from the beginning.” said Julie.

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Former employees of the Proserpine Sugar Mill are invited to attend the 24th annual staff reunion, which is due to take place on Friday, November 4.

This is an opportunity for everyone who has spent time working at the local mill to come together, share stories, reconnect, make new friends and reminisce about the good ol’ days.

Everyone is welcome - whether you have simply moved on to other employment, been retired for a year or a decade – every past employee is encouraged to come along.

84-year-old Ron Read started the event 24 years ago on the first year he retired after 46 and a half years of service.

He said that often they have around 50 people attending the reunion and that it is a good laugh with like-minded people.

The reunion takes place at the Mill Social club on Mill Street Proserpine, starting at 11.30am.

A meal is provided courtesy of Wilmar and you simply need to purchase what you want to drink.

Register your attendance directly with Ron by calling 0429 443 295 or emailing  ronread@tpg.com.au.

WHAT: Proserpine Sugar Mill Reunion

WHERE: Mill Social club on Mill Street, Proserpine

WHEN: Friday, November 4 at 11.30am

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Former workers share a beer at last years’ mill reunion

The Proserpine Sugar Mill

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

In a flurry of colourful costumes, epic demonstrations and insightful discussions, the first-ever Mack PopCon has come and gone.

The unique pop culture event brought celebrities, special guests, unique collectables and exciting photo opportunities to the Mackay Showgrounds last Saturday and pop culture fans turned out in force to immerse themselves in other worlds.

Celebrity guests, including The Matrix and Star Wars actor Matt Doran and graphic novelist Shaun Keenan, took to the stage to discuss all things pop culture while Sons of Obi-Wan and Mercenaries of Western Europe put on demonstrations and lessons throughout the day.

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For its tenth year of delivering the nostalgic, the boutique, the rock, and the roll, Airlie Beach Festival of Music (ABFoM) has upped the ante, capitalising on its status as QMA 2022 Festival of the Year to bring an all-star selection of acts to the coastal town it calls home.

In a decade of performances at the festival, there have been few set lists as stacked full of talent. There’s too many to choose from, but these are the must-see performers at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music 2022:

The Animals

Travelling direct from The House Of The Rising Sun, The Animals – the British band and Rock Hall Of Famers who topped the American charts in the ‘60s – are the premier performers at this year’s ABFoM.

Featuring original members John Steel and Mickey Gallagher alongside Danny Handley and Bobby Ruiz, The Animals are set to deliver a performance worthy of a festival celebrating a decade of bringing live music to the heart of the Great Barrier Reef.

Playing their greatest hits including House Of The Rising Sun, We Gotta Get Out Of This Place, and more, they’re the ones to watch at this year’s celebration of music.

Eskimo Joe

Representing Australian rock royalty at ABFoM will be Eskimo Joe, 35-time ARIA nominated band who have only been surpassed in the metric by Silverchair, Powderfinger, John Farnham and Kylie Minogue – they’re in good company.

Eskimo Joe’s juggernaut song Black Fingernails, Red Wine spent a monster 62 weeks in the ARIA Top 50 Chart, and their single, Foreign Land, brought home two APRA Awards for Most Played Rock Song on Australian Radio and Best Rock Song Of 2010.

John Stevens

Musician Jon Stevens – with his new album Starlight, and a brand-new single titled ‘Hold On’ – will bring the rock back to Airlie Beach.

Stevens is recognised as one of the most talented rock musicians to emerge from Australia in recent memory. The once lead singer of major rock acts Noiseworks, INXS, and Dead Daisies has had a career that’s only gone from strength-to-strength.

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In the western tradition, forests are an “imagination exerciser” where danger can lurk in every hollow, every shadow.

For his fifth fiction novel ‘The Tilt’, best-selling Australian author Chris Hammer – who recently visited the Whitsundays whilst touring with his novel up the coast - followed in the footsteps of fairy tales, setting his story of familial intrigue, history, and murder in a famed Australian woodland.

In the Barmah Millewa Forest, which stretches across the state line of New South Wales and Victoria, becoming a swamp when the Murray River swells to its fullest, the crime writer plants a multi-layered story where bodies and secrets are unearthed.

“It’s a forest nine months of the year and a wetland for three when the river spills out, running up the myriad creek,” Hammer said.

“The water managers have put little dams on all of the mouths of these, regulating the water. That’s the setting and it’s a good setting for a crime book – in forests they tell you to not go off the path.

“In this book, it’s not just one storyline but three – one in the second world war, another in the ‘70s, and in modern day.”

At three Whitsunday libraries – Cannonvale, Proserpine, and Bowen – Hammer was interviewed on his latest book by local journalists for ‘In Conversation’ events, including Whitsunday Life writer and journalist Declan Durrant.

Locals attended the intimate events to ask their own questions to Hammer, an ex-journalist of 30 years, have their books signed, and listen.

Hammer has established himself as one of the country’s premier writers in the Australian noir genre – which often sees small-town life thrown into disarray when a dark and chilling crime takes place.

“I think I’m very fortunate to be a full-time author, and that’s thanks to all of you,” he said.

Chris Hammer’s novel The Tilt is available at each of the Whitsunday libraries, as well as online for purchase at Booktopia.

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Author Chris Hammer and Whitsunday Life journalist Declan Durrant at Cannonvale Library during an ‘In Conversation’ Event hosted by Whitsunday Regional Council

It’s one thing to imitate and another to embody.

Since 2005, Dan Aykroyd, and the John Belushi Estate have been a driving force behind The Official Blues Brothers Revue – a show coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel for free in early November.

Officially sanctioned and endorsed by the family – including the late John Belushi’s wife, Judith – as well as Dan Aykroyd himself, this show direct from the US is as close as it comes to the real deal.

It’s been a long time since the Blues Brothers and their hit 1980s musical, comedy film about a not-quite-real and not-quite-fake musical duo became legendary – and two performers with the blessing of the Blues are carrying on their legacy.

They’ll croon onto the Bar Top Stage at locals’ favourite local on November 5 for more than a tribute show: It’s “the concert version of The Blues Brothers” according to Judith Belushi.

The North American duo of Wayne Catania and Keiron Lafferty as Jake and Elwood Blues will don the official hat and sunglasses to walk in the legendary footsteps of the boys in a rollicking performance at The Pub.

There’s good reason the pair have been given not just the go ahead to perform as Elwood and Jake, but have been officially sanctioned.

They capture the infectious humour and unbridled spirit of the Blues Brothers like no one since John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd themselves would walk the stage. Backed by a hard-hitting, powerhouse band, Jake and Elwood give audiences a show to remember, packed with their classic hits from the Blues Brothers’ catalogue.

From Soul Man to Rubber Biscuit, Sweet Home Chicago to Gimme Some Lovin’, Rawhide, and more. It’s a night of laughter and foot-stompin’ fun that will have Airlie Beach audiences on their feet.

Wayne and Kieron, aka Jake and Elwood, have been on a mission to deliver the most dynamic and authentic Blues Brothers show ever to hit the US – and undoubtedly succeeded.

Now on an Australian tour, they’ll cruise into The Pub to combine the comedy, music and mayhem from the original movie, as well as songs from the five popular albums put out by John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd.

It is a more than faithful recreation of the characters, and a spectacular tribute to Chicago’s rich history of blues, R&B and traditional soul music, played with the same conviction of the original Blues Brothers Band.

The entirely Free Show will go down in history as one of the Airlie Beach Hotel’s highest tier performances, and comprises just one part of The Pub’s miniature festival: The Airlie Beach Hotel’s Music Weekender, which kicks off on Thursday, November 3 and runs all the way through to November 6.

WHAT: The Official Blues Brothers Revue

WHEN: Saturday, November 5 from 2.30pm to 5.00pm

WHERE: The Airlie Beach Hotel

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The Official Blues Brothers Revue is coming to the Airlie Beach Hotel in early November as part of a massive line-up across three days of performances

The boys, Wayne Catania and Keiron Lafferty as Jake and Elwood Blues, will sing out the band’s famous hits in a nostalgia filled show

The Revue is officially endorsed by Dan Aykroyd and the John Belushi Estate – they’re almost the real deal