Prepare for an unforgettable evening of electrifying music as Jack Jones, the two-time Platinum, eight-time Gold, and APRA award-winning singer and songwriter, takes the stage at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Saturday 25th January! Known for his role as lead singer and guitarist of the 90s rock band Southern Sons, Jack Jones has captivated audiences across the globe with his powerful vocals and exceptional guitar skills.
Born in New York City and raised in Sydney, Jack Jones started showing his musical talent from a young age, and at just 14, he was performing professionally and earning a reputation as a highly skilled studio musician. Jack’s impressive career skyrocketed when he joined Southern Sons, whose hits like Heart in Danger, Always & Ever, and Hold Me In Your Arms became anthems across Australia and beyond, earning the band massive international success.
Now, after 20 years of critically acclaimed music, Jack Jones is back with a new acoustic album featuring his greatest hits with his upcoming performance promising to be an intimate experience, as Jack reconnects with his fans and celebrates his musical journey.
The event will take place at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, located at 14 Main Street, Proserpine with doors set to open at 8pm. Tickets to the unmissable performance are on sale now at www.proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au, with table-seated tickets priced at $59, and stall-seated tickets priced at $49.
This is a rare opportunity to experience one of Australia’s most respected musicians up close and you certainly won’t want to miss your chance to hear Jack Jones perform some of his biggest hits live in Proserpine!

What: Jack Jones
When: Saturday 25 January from 8pm
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
More Information: proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

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January
5          Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
12       Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
19       Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
24      Citizenship Ceremony, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9:30am
26       Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
26        Australia Day Our Whitsunday Way, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 4pm

February
2       Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
9       Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
16    Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
23    Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am

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Queensland’s beloved blue heeler, Bluey will soon make a big screen debut in an animated feature film made in Queensland.

BBC Studios and the Walt Disney Company recently announced that a full-length feature film for the beloved Emmy and BAFTA award-winning animated series will land in cinemas in 2027.

Written and directed by Bluey creator Joe Brumm, the film is a Ludo Studio production in collaboration with BBC Studios, and will continue the adventures of the loveable blue heeler dog and her Mum Chilli, Dad Bandit and little sister Bingo.

The film stars the vocal talent from the hit show, including Melanie Zanetti and David McCormack as Bluey’s mum and dad, Chilli and Bandit Heeler, with music to be created by Bluey composer Joff Bush.

Since its history-making debut on the ABC in 2018, Bluey has become a worldwide hit, gaining millions of fans in more than 140 countries.

Bluey has won AACTA, BAFTA and Emmy awards, and was recently named as the No. 1 most-watched series of 2024* in the US, with more than 50.5 billion minutes watched (842M hours) viewed so far this year.

The film is an exciting new chapter for the uniquely Queensland screen success and will be 100 per cent made in the State.

The feature film will create more than 130 local jobs and contribute an estimated $35 million to the state’s economy through local production expenditure.

The CG animated film will be produced by award-winning animation producer Amber Naismith (Happy Feet, The Lego Movie, The Lego Batman Movie) with Richard Jeffery returning to co-direct (Bluey Series 1–3), Joe Brumm is executive producer, with Charlie Aspinwall and Daley Pearson from Ludo Studio, alongside Justine Flynn for BBC Studios. For Disney, the film will be overseen by David Greenbaum, president of Disney Live Action and 20th Century Studios, and his team.

BBC Studios is financing and licensing the picture for distribution. Post-production funding is supported by the Crisafulli Government through Screen Queensland’s Post, Digital and Visual Effects Incentive and the Australian Government through the Producer Offset and Screen Australia.

Minister for Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the movie would showcase Queensland’s incredible lifestyle and culture to the world.

“Bluey is a global household name, and we are thrilled to back one of Queensland’s favourite ambassadors on her first adventure to the big screen,” Minister Langbroek said.

“Hot on the heels of the opening of Bluey’s World in Brisbane, where fans young and old can experience the Heeler family’s home for real life, this new feature film continues the Bluey series’ tradition of showcasing Queensland’s quintessential lifestyle, culture and environments.

“The movie – just like Bluey herself – will be a 100 per cent Queensland production and Ludo Studios’ talented writers, artists, cast and crew will continue their incredible work bringing these characters to life and capturing hearts across the globe.

“We know this movie will build on the international successes of Boy Swallows Universe and Black Snow to showcase our region globally, while creating local jobs and boosting our economy.”

Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney said Screen Queensland was proud to support the production of the feature film.

“Screen Queensland’s highly competitive PDV Incentive proudly supports our local animation companies, as well as the many Queensland businesses working in the post-production sector to provide industry-leading services to films and series from here and around the world.

“Bluey illustrates the enormous capacity for our local screen stories to capture hearts and minds as well as lure visitors to Queensland to explore ‘Bluey’s world, for real life’ and we couldn’t be prouder to now be supporting this first feature-length iteration.”

Disney will release the “Bluey” movie in theatres worldwide, followed by streaming on Disney+. The movie will also air on ABC iView and ABC Kids in Australia post-theatrical release.

For movie updates sign up to blueytv.com

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Photo source:  Bluey Tv

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Bring your “relaxing chair” to the Bluewater Quay for the New Year’s Eve River Party, because this year’s family entertainment features two of the world’s biggest stars.
Better yet, entry to the family-friendly event that runs from 6pm to 9pm won’t cost you a single “dollarbuck”.
In case you haven’t guessed yet, this year’s children’s entertainment will be Bluey and her little sister Bingo appearing for a Live Interactive Experience and meet and greet with families.
Get ready to play Magic Asparagus, Magic Xylophone, Keepy Uppy and more with your favourite Heeler duo while enjoying live music, kids’ amusements and a variety of food vendors and market stalls.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Bluey and Bingo were two of the world’s most recognised characters and it was tremendous to have them headlining the New Year’s Eve River Party.
“Bluey isn’t only huge in Australia; the show has smashed streaming ratings in the United States,” Mayor Williamson said.
“This is going to be a fantastic Live Interactive Performance for families and there will be two meet and greet sessions through the evening where families can get photos and meet the characters,” he said
Mayor Williamson also announced that there would be two exciting fireworks displays.
“We’d like to give a big shout out to Kay and the amazing team at Muscle Garden who have jumped on board in support of the two fireworks displays as naming rights sponsor for the second year,” Mayor Williamson said.
“The two Muscle Garden firework displays will be at 9pm for families and another at midnight for revellers.”
Festivals Coordinator Phoebe Short said there were also two fantastic local musicians to entertain the crowd on the main stage – Ruby Sue and Alessandro Stimamiglio.
“Ruby Sue is a British-born singer and guitarist whose soulful vocals and smooth style will have residents easing into the night and relaxing with some local street food,” Ms Short said.
“Originally from Verona, Italy, Alessandro is another singer and guitarist with exceptionally smooth vocals, but his are influenced by classic Italian singers,” she said.
“He’s recently returned from spending a few months in Brisbane and has been working on a new setlist, including some new originals, so we can’t wait to see what he will showcase for the crowd.”
For more information on the New Year’s Eve River Party, follow Mackay Festivals on Facebook or head to themecc.com.au/mackay-festivals.

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SummerSalt is set to shine in 2025, announcing a new show in Mackay, coming to Harrup Park for the first time. This dazzling event features an iconic, all-Aussie line-up of music greats, promising a vibrant celebration of Australian talent with Missy Higgins, Birds of Tokyo, Fanning Dempsey National Park, The Waifs, The Whitlams, and Josh Pyke.

Since its debut, SummerSalt has become a premier outdoor festival across Australia, known for bringing world-class Australian and international artists to locations nationwide. This event brings feel-good music to vibrant destinations, creating an unforgettable, family-friendly atmosphere ideal for making cherished memories. It’s the perfect place to soak up the sunshine, with live music and a vibrant setting.

Missy Higgins is one of Australia’s most beloved singer/songwriters. She has struck a deep and enduring chord with her irresistible melodies, “Arrow Through the Heart”, and classic songs like “Scar,” “The Special Two,” “Steer,” “Everyone’s Waiting,” and “Futon Couch.”

Formed in Perth in the early 2000s, Birds of Tokyo have grown from independent roots to become one of Australia’s most popular contemporary rock bands. Since their 2008 breakthrough Universes, all five of the group’s albums have reached the ARIA Top 3, including two #1 hits: March Fires (2013) and Human Design (2021). Classic songs like “Good Lord,” “Plans,” “Lanterns,” “Two of Us,” “Brace,” and “Unbreakable” have all been Top 10 airplay hits, with more than seventy of their tracks featured on Triple J, making them one of the National Youth Broadcaster’s three most played artists of this millennium.

Bernard Fanning and Paul Dempsey are two of the most revered and successful Australian artists of the last 30 years. The esteemed pair have launched a new project, Fanning Dempsey National Park, and announced their debut album, The Deluge, out now. They’ve crafted a bold sound, with the sonic guiding principle of synthesizers edging out guitars. While you may hear the tangled DNA of Powderfinger and Something For Kate in vivid flashes, the electronic washes, synth arpeggiators, and motoric rhythms bring new skin to the game.

From their inception, The Waifs traversed Australia playing every small town with a local paper, a local radio station, a pub or hall that would host live music, and someone willing to listen. Constant touring laid a broad foundation, while their musical chemistry and relatable lyrics solidified a lifelong, dedicated fan base.

The Whitlams’ bittersweet storytelling and rollicking performances have made them one of Australia’s most successful touring and recording acts since the mid-1990s, when they single-handedly brought piano back onto the indie airwaves. Over the course of their storied history, they have released five platinum and gold-selling albums in a row, including the beloved Eternal Nightcap, which captured the hearts of a generation with its famous opener, ARIA Song of the Year “No Aphrodisiac.”

Tim Freedman is riding a new wave of energy, releasing two new albums since 2022, Sancho and the Americana-influenced Kookaburra, and has toured the nation seven times in his various lineups in the last three years.

Josh Pyke is one of Australia’s premier singer/songwriters, known for his ability to weave intelligent lyrics with warm melodies and quirky song structures. Josh’s breakthrough single, “Middle of the Hill,” made it to #19 on Triple J’s 2005 Hottest 100 countdown and appeared on his debut release, a mini-album entitled Feeding The Wolves.

What: SummerSalt 2025
When: Saturday 3rd May 2025
Where: Harrup Park, Mackay
Tickets: www.ticketmaster.com.au

Missy Higgins
Birds of Tokyo
Fanning Dempsey National Park
The Waifs
The Whitlams
Josh Pyke. Photos supplied

Friday 20th December  

Crochet & Conversation  
9am
Join a friendly group of Northern Beaches locals for crocheting, coffee, and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. Everyone is welcome, whether crafting or just enjoying the vibe. Look for the yarn under the shade sails or inside, weather permitting!
Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade.

Christmas Holiday Kids Craft
9.30am
Santa’s elves are bringing free Christmas crafts to life on 20 December 2024. Kids can enjoy decorating gingerbread men, creating mosaic Christmas trees, sewing felt stockings, and more. The festive fun runs from 9:30 am to 2:00pm, making it a perfect day for families to get into the holiday spirit.
Santa's Workshop, Outside Target, Caneland Central

Ceramic Fish Workshop
5pm
Paint, construct and add your personal touch to these elements that will be featuring in the Placemaking Mky's Chinatown urban beautification project for the old petrol station in Nelson Street.
57 Wood St, Mackay

Karaoke With Hyphen Entertainment
7pm
Come on down to The Seabreeze and enjoy karaoke with Hyphen Entertainment
The Seabreeze Hotel

LIVE Music  
6-9pm
Enjoy Lucid Wings LIVE at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Saturday 21st December

One Last Dance For 2024
6am
A free community boot camp, One Last Dance for 2024, will take place on Saturday, December 21, from 6 am at Blacks Beach Stairs. Families, friends, and workout buddies are invited to enjoy a fun morning fitness session. Free watermelon will be provided for refreshments after the workout, offering a perfect way to wrap up the year.
Blacks Beach Stairs

Mackay Basketball Stadium Markets
8am
Christmas Markets – head to the Mackay basketball stadium to support local busnisses and purchase that last minute special gift!
Mackay Basketball Stadium

Habana Carols Under The Stars
7pm
One of the best outdoor carols in all of Mackay. Bring your chair, blanket, snacks, mozzie repellent, singing voices and friends to have some fun and get into the festive mood. Santa is sure to make an appearance. This is a FREE FAMILY EVENT (wheelchair accessible) organised by the Habana & Districts Progress Association. Supported by Mackay Regional Council’s Christmas Grants. Please note, this is a 100% free night, there are no food or market stall vendors onsite. Contact Peter Bonaventura 0427598715
1091 Mackay Habana Rd, Habana 

Mackay parkrun
7am-10am
Mackay parkrun is a FREE, timed, 5km run, jog or walk put on by the community for the community at 7am every Saturday morning in Mackay. Meet near the Botanic Gardens Playground to start. Don't forget to register first - you only need to do it once.
Head to website to register - https://www.parkrun.com.au/
Mackay Region Botanic Gardens

Walkerston Fire Station Lolly Run
From 2pm
The Walkerston Fire Station brigade will once again be handing out lollies throughout the streets of Scrubby. Don’t miss Santa in the big red truck!
Various streets in Walkerston

Sunday 22nd December  

Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3 pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel

Sunday Buffet Breakfast
9-11am
Start your Sunday with a delicious Bullet Breakfast at Goosies from 9 am to 11 am. Enjoy a variety of options, including eggs, maple bacon, chipolata sausages, fresh croissants, fruit salad, baked beans, cereals, juices, and more. Adults: $20 for members, $23 for non-members. Kids 12 years and under: $10. Head to Gooseponds Sport and Recreation Club for a hearty start to the day!
Goosies Sport and Recreation Club

CASA Sunday BBQ
11am-12pm
Please join CASA down at the Blue Water Quay BBQ area, EVERY Sunday for a sausage sizzle on us! Bring a smile, a friend and come and fill your bellies!
Bluewater Quay, River Street

Tuesday 24th December

Xmas Eve at the General Gordon
From 7pm
Bring the family down for Christmas Karaoke. Sing along to all those wonderful carols and celebrate with us!
General Gordon, Homebush Road

Sarina Fire Station Lolly Run
From 5:30pm
The Sarina Fire Station brigade will once again be handing out lollies throughout the streets of Sarina. Visit Sarina Fire Station’s Facebook page for a map of the truck route as well as polite requests to keep people safe.
Various streets in Sarina

Wednesday 25th December  

Christmas Lunch At Ocean International
12pm
Celebrate Christmas in style with a stress-free buffet lunch featuring a mouth-watering selection of fresh seafood, slow-cooked meats, roasted vegetables, and handmade desserts. Highlights include Hay Point prawns, Moreton Bay bugs, garlic pork loin, and Manuka honey-glazed ham. A cheese platter, fresh bread, and pastries complete the feast. Limited tickets are available, with prepayment required. Adults $195, children under 12 $95. Book now for an unforgettable festive dining experience!
Ocean International

Thursday 26th December  

Riverside Markets
3pm-8pm
Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!
Bluewater Quay

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Head to Coral Sea Resort on Sunday, January 19th, for an unforgettable afternoon of smooth jazz, Latin rhythms, and timeless classics, as the extraordinary Domenico takes the stage at the Coral Sea Resort’s Pavilion.
A true musical prodigy, Domenico’s journey began at the age of 4 in 1971, when he first picked up the piano accordion. His exceptional skill quickly earned him recognition as a specialist of the instrument. In 1986, he began performing with a three-piece cabaret band, captivating audiences across Queensland at private functions, clubs, and hotels. After a 15-year residency, Domenico formed Domenico & The Latin Mafia, further cementing his reputation as one of the region’s most dynamic performers.
With over 25 years of professional entertainment experience, Domenico’s unique technique and vast musical repertoire set him apart. He is widely regarded as one of Brisbane’s most versatile multicultural cabaret entertainers, seamlessly blending Jazz, Latin, Ballroom, Rock, Pop, and more. His diverse talents ensure that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Domenico’s extensive career has seen him perform at festivals and events across the east coast of Australia. Notably, in 2012, he joined the celebrated 10-piece Celtic band Murphy’s Pigs, where his remarkable skills on both vocals and piano accordion brought a fresh new dimension to the group.
From the sweet jazz standards of the '40s and '50s to passionate Italian and Spanish classics, Domenico’s repertoire spans a wide range of genres and styles. His performance will transport you from the vibrant rhythms of South America to the timeless sounds of classical music, offering a truly global musical experience.
The Coral Sea Resort invites the community to immerse themselves in this afternoon of musical excellence, with Domenico’s captivating performance from 2pm to 5pm. Enjoy drink specials throughout the event, and best of all, entry is free!
Get ready for an afternoon of sun, sea and smooth tunes at Coral Sea Resorts Pavilion.
For all inquiries and for more information, contact the Resort on 07 4964 1300.

What: Live Music with Domenico
When: Sunday 19th January 2025 from 2pm
Where: Coral Sea Pavilion
More Information: 07 4964 1300

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Despite the challenges posed by the weather, the Proserpine Twilight Markets was a resounding success, drawing a large crowd eager to enjoy the lively atmosphere, support local businesses, and celebrate the community spirit.
From live music performances to interactive activities for all ages, the markets proved to be a highlight of the Christmas period.

Carmen Box and Mitchell Buckmundi
Georgia Turner
Helle Harris
Zoe Allan
Megan Mcmahan and Tiani Balma
Desley Bickhoff
Ry Collins
Gabby Sinclair and Ella Tetley
Mel Brookes and Reef Brookes
Christmas Train transporting guests

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An energetic, entertaining, and unmissable performance will be staged at the Airlie Beach Hotel across three fantastic shows on the 27th, 28th and 29th of December as the infamous Robbie Williams Experience returns!
Starring Australia’s beloved entertainer Louie Lee Feltrin, the Robbie Williams Experience showcases plenty of iconic and celebrated hits like Let Me Entertain You, Angels, Millennium, Feel Better Man, Monsoon, Rock DJ, and more to have audiences singing and dancing like never before.
Ahead of Louie’s fifth time on the Airlie Beach Hotel stage, waves of excitement and anticipation have begun to build across the shire for the talented entertainer.
“I can't wait to get back to Airlie Beach it's one of my favourite places to play,” shared Louie.
“I’m looking forward to seeing everybody enjoying themselves, it's going to be a ripper show!”
Melbourne born; Louie shot to fame for his uncanny portrayal of Robbie Williams on Channel 9’s Starstruck. Renowned as one of the world’s best Robbie Williams impersonators, Louie’s talent captivates audiences with his remarkable vocal and physical resemblance to the treasured pop superstar.
In 2006, Louie’s show-stopping performance on Channel 10’s Grand Final Breakfast enthralled over three million viewers, including Australia’s Prime Minister and an audience of esteemed local and international dignitaries.
With the world well and truly under his spell, the Airlie Beach Hotel is beyond thrilled to present not two, but three unmissable Robbie Williams Experience shows for all to enjoy across Friday, Saturday and Sunday next weekend!
Come one, come all and get ready for an electrifying weekend of music and entertainment as The Robbie Williams Experience takes the stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel on the 27th, 28th and 29th of December from 2pm to 5.30pm and prepare to sing, laugh and dance your way into the late afternoon!

What: The Robbie Williams Experience
When: 27th, 28th and 29th of December from 2pm to 5:30pm
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
More Information: thepubairliebeach.com.au

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There’s truly no better way to conclude the year that was, and warmly welcome the year that will be than with your dear friends and family by your side, and the Whitsunday Regional Council has planned the perfect extravaganza for you to celebrate the New Year in style!
An annual festive display highlighting the magic of the region and its abundance of community spirit, the infamous New Year’s Eve Fireworks will be held across numerous locations within the shire for all members of the area to enjoy.
In order to cater to the littlest members of the family, an early display will be held at 8:30pm at the Airlie Beach Foreshore, Collinsville Showgrounds and the Bowen Foreshore. Once the clock strikes 12, both the Airlie Beach Foreshore and the Bowen Foreshore will host another wonderful display to light up the night from midnight to perfectly celebrate the conclusion of 2024 and the beginning of 2025!
The Whitsunday Regional Council wishes to advise all pet owners to keep a watchful eye on their four-legged family members, asking to ensure they’re securely inside as fireworks can be destressing for animals.  
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What: New Year’s Eve Fireworks Displays
When: Tuesday 31st December at 8:30pm and 12.
Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore, Bowen Foreshore, and Collinsville Showgrounds

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December

22         Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29         Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am
30         Dune Rats, Magnums Airlie Beach, from 7:30pm
30         New Year’s Eve Fireworks, Airlie Beach Foreshore, Bowen Foreshore, & Collinsville Showgrounds, from 8:30pm

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The Dingo Beach Christmas Market was a resounding success, thanks to the incredible efforts of the volunteers who brought this festive family event to life.
The market featured a diverse array of stalls and entertainment, filling the air with holiday cheer and creating a vibrant atmosphere for all.
Santa’s grand arrival was a standout moment, making a spectacular entrance aboard a fire truck, flanked by his cheerful elves and the dedicated Gloucester Rural Fire volunteers. They added a special touch by offering a gift-wrapping Christmas gift.
The event was made even more memorable through the support of the Dingo Beach Store and Hotel, alongside the generosity of local residents who donated to ensure a truly festive experience for everyone.
A heartfelt highlight was the success of the Dingo Beach Wishing Tree Appeal, which brought smiles to many children by delivering gifts. The community spirit was truly alive, making this year's celebration one to remember.

Carol singers, performing to the crowds
Queensland Rural Fire Services helping out with Christmas Gift wrapping
Families enjoying meeting Santa
Santa and his elves meeting all the well-behaved children
Gypsea Beachwear, one of the fantastic stalls at the market
Santa arriving in a firetruck
Santa’s elves arriving
Santa greeting attendees upon arrival
Big waves from Santa
Dingo Beach wishing tree provided by Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
Children enjoyed meeting Santa

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The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is in full swing, and with only a couple of weeks left until Christmas, gift wrapping often becomes a last-minute headache. But thanks to the volunteers from Mackay’s SCOPE Club, you can turn that chore into a moment of relaxation – all while supporting local charities.
From now until Christmas Eve, the SCOPE team will be stationed at Home Co between Thrifties and Spotlight, offering their expert gift-wrapping services daily from 9am to 4pm. For just a gold coin donation per gift (please consider donating more for larger items), they’ll transform your presents into beautifully wrapped treasures, with proceeds going to local causes like Chances House (Australian Street Aid Project), Orange Sky, and Mackay Animal Rescue Society (MARS).
What’s even better? Your gifts don’t need to be purchased at Home Co. Bring in your items from anywhere, drop them off in the morning, and return later to collect your perfectly wrapped presents. With a wide selection of colours available, the volunteers can even try to match a theme if you have one in mind. Try to separate gifts for specific people into separate bags, so once they are wrapped, you know who to label them for. 
While you wait, why not take a well-earned break? Nearby K&Co Café offers the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or a bite to eat, giving you a few minutes off your feet during the holiday rush.
Support the community, tick gift wrapping off your to-do list, and enjoy a little holiday cheer – it’s a win-win for everyone!

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Sheryl Cuttriss and Joan Williams were gift wrapping last year at Home Co. SCOPE are wrapping gifts for charity again this year. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Friday 13th December  

Crochet & Conversation  
9am
Join a friendly group of Northern Beaches locals for crocheting, coffee, and conversation at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. Everyone is welcome, whether crafting or just enjoying the vibe. Look for the yarn under the shade sails or inside, weather permitting!
Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade.

Ceramic Fish Workshop
10am
Paint, construct and add your personal touch to these elements that will be featuring in the Placemaking Mky's Chinatown urban beautification project for the old petrol station in Nelson Street.
57 Wood St, Mackay

Mackay Show Xmas Mega Market  
5pm
The 2024 Mackay Show Christmas MEGA Market is set to take place on December 13th at the Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds. This event promises to be an enjoyable evening for the entire family! It begins at 5 PM, with a special visit from Santa at 6 PM
Mackay Showgrounds

LIVE Music  
6-9pm
Enjoy Nathan Kennedy LIVE at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Saturday 14th December

Christmas Bake Sale
8am
Pop on down for some homemade goodies and Christmas treats
Portside Takeaway & Conveniance

Calligraphy Workshop With The Neighbourhood Hub
1pm
Learn the wonderful calligraphy art with local generational Mackay Chinese family, Lyla and Mark Shew. Learn why these prayer cards are made for the Chinese New Year and make your own, or contribute to the #PlacemakingMkyChinatown project leading into Chinese New Year + Spring & Lantern Festival for the 29th Jan - 12th Feb, 2025.
$10 p/p for materials @ Mackay Masonic Centre – please bring cash.
57 Wood St, Mackay

Pickleball Mackay Christmas Party
3pm
Pickleball Mackay invites everyone to a festive season celebration to mark an incredible year with its amazing pickleballers. Join in for an evening of fun, food, and, of course, plenty of dinking!
125 Kippen Street

Twilight Pinnacle Markets
4pm
Mighty Fungi AU welcomes you to a world of fresh, local goodness. Offering a variety of mushrooms, honey, and more, Mighty Fungi AU focuses on providing high-quality, locally sourced products.
37 Sapphire Ct, Mackay

Sunday 15th December  

Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3 pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel

Epoxy Resin Nibbles Set
2pm
Participants are invited to enjoy a relaxed afternoon of creativity while crafting a beautiful epoxy resin nibbles board and wine glass set. Creations will need at least 24 hours to cure, with collection details provided during the workshop. Hosted by Michelle, the session includes all art supplies—just bring yourself. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks. Ages 16 and 17 must be accompanied by a participating adult, and the workshop is not suitable for those under 15. Seats are limited, and bookings are essential.
The Creative Art Studio by Michellemdv Designs

Al’s Rock & Roll
5-7pm
Enjoy dinner, a cold beer, and incredible rock and roll tunes by the talented Al at the Goosies…A perfect night of music, food, and fun awaits!
Goosies Sport and Recreation Club

Christmas Light Ride
6.30pm
Cycling enthusiasts are invited to a festive and social ride to light up the night in celebration of the season. Participants are encouraged to decorate their bikes and attire with tinsel, baubles, stars, and lights, with helmets being a mandatory part of the dress-up. The ride will maintain an average pace of 23km/hr. An updated map of Mackay's festive lights will be shared in this post, so stay tuned!
Corry Cycles

Tuesday 17th December  

MKY City Heart Collective Meeting
5.15pm
The Mackay Chinatown Project, set for January 2025, is calling for passionate individuals to get involved and transform the streetscapes of Mackay's CBD. Join a dynamic group of like-minded contributors eager to inspire change. With exciting activations, creative ideas, and bold plans on the horizon, the upcoming team meeting offers an opportunity to discuss and reimagine the city centre.
Moss On Wood

Wednesday 18th December  

Mackay Farmers’ Market
6:30 – 10:30am
Shop local at the Mackay Farmers' Market and enjoy a morning on the Pioneer River.
Grab your reusable coffee cups, drink tumblers, water kefir bottles, produce and carry bags and stop in at the Mackay Farmers' Market every Wednesday.
Bluewater Quay

Explore A Gym
9am
Bring your child along for a morning of FUN! Explore-A-Gym is a 2 hour play session that is designed to give your child the opportunity to learn and explore in a non-structured environment. Suitable for ages 18 months to 5 years. Cost is $12/child
5 Snow Wright CRT, Beaconsfield. Mackay

Thursday 19th  December  

Kids Xmas Watercolour
10am
This Christmas school holidays, kids 6+ and their guardians can join a fun workshop. Children can attend alone, or guardians may join in. The session includes a live demonstration, practice time, and guidance to create personalized A4 watercolour artworks (Festive Llama or Gingerbread House). It's a fun, group-friendly session with beginner-friendly instructions. Bring a water bottle; no snacks provided. Limited seats available, bookings essential.
Shop 1, 3 Ungerer St , Mackay

Riverside Markets
3pm-8pm
Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!
Bluewater Quay

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The Bowen Community Centre, in partnership with Sally the Support Worker and Kristy from MADEC, hosted a lively social inclusion event that brought the community together and showcased local services.

The event featured pop-up shops from various agencies, offering resources, giveaways, and engaging activities with attendees welcoming Housing Older Women Support Services (HOWSS) and Footprints, who provided chocolates and essential housing information. OT4U Occupational Therapy offered practical resources, while Interjobs Recruitment Agency charmed attendees with creative coffee cups and brochures.

Grays Bay was the perfect backdrop for a paddle board demonstration by the local group, showcasing their regular Saturday activities. Stella Life delighted participants with gift bags, and Ferros Care helped attendees prepare for summer with fans and seasonal resources. Bowen State High School's guidance counsellor, Lauren, proudly represented the school with a wealth of information about its achievements.

Flexicare impressed with their resources and brochures, while Michael from PCYC ensured young attendees left with exciting freebies. A special congratulations goes to Sam Walten, who won the paddle board family hire package.

The two-hour event attracted over 100 participants of all ages, celebrating connection and inclusivity. With vibrant displays, engaging activities, and collaborative efforts, the event exemplified the power of community spirit.

The Bowen Community Centre, along with its partners and contributors, extends its gratitude to all who participated, making the event a resounding success.

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