Entertainment

Beatlemania Comes To Airlie Beach Hotel

Beatlemania Comes To Airlie Beach Hotel

Australia’s longest-running Beatles tribute act, The Beatnix, will return to the stage this May with two performances celebrating the music and legacy of the Fab Four. Performing on Saturday 23rd May and Sunday 24th May, the acclaimed tribute band will take audiences on a journey through the many eras of The Beatles, recreating the sound and style that defined a generation. Formed in Perth in 1980 by founder Tony Dean, the group has spent more than three decades building a reputation as one of Australia’s premier Beatles tribute shows. Their performances capture everything from the early days of Beatlemania through to the band’s later studio years, featuring faithful renditions of classic hits from across the Beatles catalogue. The group has seen a wide range of lineup changes and iterations. “The band has been going for a long time,” said David Stanley, who has been performing as George Harrison for 15 years. “We’re doing multiple sets which means we can cover quite a bit of the catalogue. We’re able to include a few cult hits and Beatles easter eggs.” Known for their attention to detail, The Beatnix perform using authentic instruments, costumes and stage props to recreate the atmosphere of a live Beatles concert. The show begins with the iconic black-and-white suits of the early touring years before transitioning into the colourful Sgt Pepper-era costumes in the second half. “We’re doing Sergeant Pepper’s, early Beatles and even the Abbey Road style as well.” The enduring popularity of Beatles music continues to attract audiences of all ages, with fans drawn to the timeless songwriting and nostalgia of the era. Organisers say the upcoming performances promise a night filled with singalongs, memories and classic tunes spanning the group’s entire career. “The Beatles are one of those bands who blow people away when they discover them for the first time. They are just that good. There are huge cultural achievements in life that just continue to survive. The Beatles have become so classic that they are an institution in their own right.” There will be costume changes and heaps of Beatlemania to celebrate this legendary band. Get down to the Airlie Beach Hotel for 2 free shows of Beatles fun. WHAT: The Beatnix, 2 Free Shows WHEN: Saturday 23rd May, Sunday 24th May, 2pm – 5.30pm WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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What’s On From May 15th

What’s On From May 15th

May 16 & 17 Whitsunday Equestrian Group T-Shirt Competition, Cannonvalley Pony Club, 8am-4pm 18 Placing of the flags, Proserpine Cemetery, 9am 19 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am 19 Whitsunday Whale Heritage Area Information Night, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6:30pm 21 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am 23 Proserpine Show Ball, Proserpine Showgrounds, 6pm 24 Community Volunteer Expo, Bowen Sunday Markets 26 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am 29 Speed Networking, Lumos Café, 7:30-8:30am 29 WSPN BBQ, Shirtfront Solutions Parking, 6.30am June 3 Social Seniors, Cannonvale, 9.30am 6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Songwriting Summit, 9.30am-4pm 6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Concert & Conversation, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6pm - 8pm 9 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am 16 Collinsville Open Cut Free Event 18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am 23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

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Ride For Mental Health To Take Place In Bowen

Ride For Mental Health To Take Place In Bowen

The Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride is set to take place in Bowen this weekend. The annual event - which has been hosted by Barry and Sue Tapp for the past five years – will be held again on Sunday 17th May to raise money for men’s mental health. The Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride is a fundraiser that was first started in Sydney by Mark Hawwa, 15 years ago. Since then, the initiative spread across 121 countries, raising over $82 million worldwide. Money is generated through sponsorship of riders, who all congregate on the day in dapper dress to show their support. Proceeds are primarily donated to Movember, the leading global charity which focuses on mental health, suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. “Every year we have dapper ladies and gents suit up and ride their classic, retro and vintage motorcycles through the streets of Bowen,” said ride host Barry Tapp. “In the past, riders have come from as far away as Sarina and Ayr to participate.” The event will feature a ride around town, concluding at the Bowen Community Markets where community members will be able to view the rider’s vehicles as part of a display. The event was begun in Bowen by couple Barry and Sue Tapp, who wanted to raise awareness for mental health issues in the community. “We’ve been affected by people passing away due to mental health struggles,” Barry said. The event has now become a staple of the community with great anticipation for Sunday’s ride. “All bikes are welcome in Bowen — from choppers to scooters and everything in between. While the spirit of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride is inspired by classic and vintage style motorcycles, the Bowen ride welcomes riders of all makes, models and styles to come together in support of men’s mental health and prostate cancer research through the Movember Foundation.” For information about sponsorship and registration, please see the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride website: https://gentlemansride.com/about/programs-we-fund (make this into QR code). WHAT: Distinguished Gentlemen’s Ride WHEN: Sunday 17th May, 8am WHERE: Bowen The Gentlemen’s Ride first started in Sydney in 2012, and has been run in Bowen for the last 5 years Proceeds go towards mental health awareness, suicide prevention and cancer research Photo supplied

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Whitsunday Multicultural Festival Set To Celebrate Culture And Community In Bowen

Whitsunday Multicultural Festival Set To Celebrate Culture And Community In Bowen

The 2026 Whitsunday Multicultural Festival has been officially announced to take place on Friday 12th June. Set to be a vibrant celebration of culture, connection and diversity, the festival will showcase the many communities that call the Whitsundays home, bringing together families, visitors and local groups for an afternoon and evening of entertainment. Held at the Bowen Sound Shell, the event will feature live performances, cultural displays, markets, family-friendly activities and fireworks proudly sponsored by North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation. Organisers say the festival is designed to highlight the region’s rich multicultural identity while providing a welcoming space for people to share traditions, food and performance. Community participation is a key focus of this year’s event, with expressions of interest now open for cultural groups, stallholders, vendors, educators, workshop facilitators, musicians and dancers. Organisers are encouraging local and regional participants to get involved and help shape the program. Applications are open via Council’s Online Engagement Portal, with submissions closing 31 May 2026: https://bit.ly/WMCF2026 (can this be made into a QR Code) What: Whitsunday Multicultural Festival When: Friday 12 June 2026, 4:00pm – 8:00pm Where: Bowen Sound Shell The Whitsunday Multicultural Festival has seen great success in previous years and its announcement is met with great anticipation. Photo source: Whitsunday and Mackay Life Newspaper

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Happy Easter From Woolworths

Fighting Melanoma Together - A Convoy of Courage Rolls Through Bowen

May 7, 2026

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox attended the Buck Off Melanoma event held in Bowen over the weekend. Photo supplied  

Engines roared and spirits soared as Bowen came alive for its annual Buck Off Melanoma fundraiser last Sunday. This year’s highlight, the Convoy 4 Melanoma, united the community in a powerful display of support, with trucks and vehicles of all sizes parading through town, horns blaring and crowds cheering.  

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox joined the celebration, praising its uplifting energy. Organisers worked tirelessly to expand the event’s reach, making it more inclusive and impactful than ever. With live music, family activities, and unwavering community backing, the day drove home one vital message: together, we can fight melanoma.

Read the rest of the story here: https://www.mackayandwhitsundaylife.com/article/buck-off-melanoma

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Sotheby’s Sets New Benchmark in Whitsundays Luxury Property Market

May 7, 2026

Photo source: Facebook

Queensland’s luxury property market continues to reach new heights, with Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty at the centre of the region’s latest milestone sale.

The agency has set a new benchmark in the Whitsundays, surpassing its own 2024 record with the recent sale of Element Hill on Hamilton Island. This achievement follows the high-profile transaction of Villa De La Mer in Airlie Beach, which sold for close to $15 million.

Known for handling some of the region’s most prestigious properties, Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty has played a pivotal role in elevating the profile of the Whitsundays as a destination for luxury real estate. Their strategic marketing campaigns, extensive buyer networks and persistence throughout lengthy sales campaigns have proven critical in securing premium outcomes.

The earlier sale of Villa De La Mer exemplified this approach, attracting strong national interest and multiple offers over an extended period. By maintaining confidence in the property’s value and targeting the right buyers, the agency was able to achieve a record-breaking result that exceeded previous regional benchmarks.

This latest sale further cements Sotheby’s reputation as a leader in the prestige property sector, not just within Queensland but across Australia. As demand for high-end coastal homes continues to grow, their influence is helping to reshape expectations and pricing across the Whitsundays.

For the local community, these results signal increasing confidence in the region’s property market and reinforce its standing on the national stage.

Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty has set a new Whitsundays property record with the sale of Element Hill on Hamilton Island, surpassing its own 2024 benchmark.

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Calling Australia’s Original, Live Music Artists!

May 7, 2026

Melbourne band ‘Monroe’ being announced as 2025 Passport to Airlie Winners Photo supplied

‘Passport to Airlie’ opens career-launching national search

The Airlie Beach Festival of Music has opened its entries for Passport to Airlie. This opportunity is designed to uncover and support original artists across Australia, offering unsigned musicians the chance to perform at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music from November 6th-8th.

Every musician starts somewhere - why not Airlie Beach?  

2023 winners, Avalanche, are a ‘case-in-point’, entering the ‘Passport’ experience as a four-piece hard rock band from Western Sydney, and emerging with widespread media coverage, airplay on both mainstream and community radio charts, and a support role with Airbourne on their 2026 European ‘Armed to the teeth’ tour.  

Passport to Airlie applications are open to original acts nationwide, with the sole criteria that no cover songs or tributes are allowed.  

The competition starts with regional heats, held from June to September across Australia.  

The act who wins their regional heat must be available to travel to Airlie Beach from November 6th-8th, where they will receive four nights’ accommodation, VIP tickets to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music (valued at $1,150 each), and go head-to-head with the other regional winners for the chance to win the ultimate prize.  

Judged by a panel of industry professionals (with previous judges including Superjesus frontwoman, Sarah McLeod, and Dave Gleeson from The Screaming Jets), the overall winner secures a professional photography package, a main stage performance slot in 2027, and tiered prize money based on act size, with $500 awarded to solo artists, $1,000 to duos, $1,500 to trios and $2,000 to full bands.  

To enter, head to www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au and tab to the Passport to Airlie landing page.  

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Creative Column – May 8th

May 7, 2026

This week I’d like to focus more on the new Book Club segment. Please keep submitting both your poetry and book reviews. It is always a pleasure to see the immense creative passion across the region. This week’s book review is from Lisa Mitchell who runs her own ‘Bookstagram’ account where she shares new releases, reviews and other book related content. You can find her content on Instagram via the handle @serenity.of.books



It is really inspiring to see Australian creators perform so well on the global stage. I have always been a strong advocate for fostering arts and culture within Australia. As a country that sometimes seems to view the arts as a lesser priority, we have always been at risk of a ‘brain drain’, in which creatives head overseas for better opportunities. I too have been tempted by such a move, however I’ve realised that Australia is my home, and I think art can be a powerful way to make sense of who we are and where we come from.  

We need art made by Australians that interrogates what it means to live in this country. I think there are too many Australian artists trying to replicate American or British work. That’s been done. We need stories that truly reflect the landscape, the environment and the history.  

Creative talent is everywhere in Australia. We just need to nurture it.

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Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy - Reviewed by Lisa Mitchell

May 7, 2026

‘At once a gripping mystery, an exquisitely written ode to the natural world, and a taut, psychological thriller, Wild Dark Shore is a triumph….’ -- This is how one of my favourite authors, Hannah Kent, describes this book, and I couldn’t agree more. I’ve discovered a new favourite author in Charlotte McConaghy.

Dominic Salt and his three children are the last caretakers of Shearwater, a remote island near Antarctica that shelters the world’s largest seed bank. As they prepare the seeds for relocation, isolation weighs heavily: Raff wrestles with heartbreak, Fen seeks solace among the seals, Orly clings to his love of botany, and Dominic remains trapped in grief. Their world shifts when Rowan, a mysterious woman, washes ashore during a storm. As bonds of trust form, long-buried secrets emerge—sabotaged radios, a grave, and Dominic’s hidden past. With the storms closing in, the family must decide whether they can trust one another enough to protect the seeds and forge a new beginning.

The island’s wild, elemental beauty and the fragile family story unfolding against it completely captured my imagination, pulling me deeper until I was as invested in the setting as in the characters—on edge, as with any great thriller. I finished this book weeks ago and still can’tstop thinking about Shearwater. I’ve recommended it to everyone I know, because no words I can find do it justice. All I can say is: read it for yourself—it’s an absolute gem.

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Photo of the Week - 8th of May

May 7, 2026

The photo of the week winner is Elise Dunckis (what a great run she is having) for theme ‘Golden Hour’. The photo was taken at Glenden.  

Contributed by Whitsunday Amateur Photographers

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On This Day 1986 May 8th

May 7, 2026

Support For Rodeo. Proserpine Chamber of Commerce will support the advent of the Australian Championship Rodeo in May with a Main Street Mardi Gras, late night shopping, increased lighting and taped music for the Main Street Shopping Centre. Local poet Reg Beck described the occasion in verse [page 1]

More Main Street Promotion. Overland coaches and Proserpine Carrying were tending to avoid Main Street if possible. Trees planted along the edge of footpaths not concrete planters was considered, as were signs on the Highway.

Big Surprise. If you go down to the Cultural Hall today you’re sure of a big surprise. Family Day Care Scheme is hosting its first Annual Teddy Bear’s Picnic on Saturday May 17th.

Country Press Impressed With Proserpine. Visiting journalists from all over Queensland were impressed with the local facilities, especially the Cultural Hall foyer, the RSL, and the Jupp Street sporting area, but the highlight was undoubtedly the cruise aboard “Highland Warrior” around the islands and the reef.

Carnival Capers. Cannonvale School is busy preparing entertainment and stalls for the annual school fete on the Saturday before Mother’s Day.

Shire Engineer Appointed. New contractual engineer, Don Bullock saw the role as a challenge.

Hayman Island. Ansett’s ‘super-luxury ocean transport, the ‘Sun Goddess’ promoted the island over May Day Weekend with pleasure cruises out of Mackay and Airlie. Also WTA were organising a big promotion with help from their sponsor TAA.

High School Report. Whitsunday School Trials took place for hockey, squash and soccer and the North Queensland Netball trials took place at Ingham where Katrina and Tammy Mullins were both selected to travel to Brisbane in the NQ team.

Lisa Meets Miss Australia. Whitsunday entrant for Miss Australia Lisa Marquart met Miss Australia for afternoon tea in Mackay on Saturday.

ARL. Airlie Bloods went down narrowly to Mackay City 62-54 at the Proserpine Showgrounds on Saturday. ARL regional coaching director gave Airlie Little Bleeders a coaching session at Cannonvale School.

Whitsunday Sailing Club. 100 boats of different sizes took part in squally conditions. The only division won outright by WSC in the May Regatta was the Stingray Class taken out by Brendan Howes and Stuart Lock.

A comprehensive plan for developing the Whitsunday coast was overdue. This was the liberal party opinion.

A Yellow Submarine. The arrival of a twenty metre long yellow submarine was immanent and should prove ‘a great asset’ to the Whitsundays.

Last Swimming Carnival of Season. This took place in Ayr. Local swimmers Marcus Mudie and Michelle Perkins won several medals. Michelle Mudie, Donna Nosworthy and Daniel Perkins were among other noteworthy performers.

Three Track Race Meeting. Proserpine Motor Cycle Club held this at Dray Park, attracting 45 entries including 5 speedway side car teams one of which is the only ladies sidecar team in Queensland comprising of Debbie Broome and Tamara Gailes. Russell Magee won the unlimited section and Clint Burke won the Pee Wees.

Bowls: winners of the Ernie Gasper Memorial Shield were Val De Boni, Peter Sala, Renzo Spala and John Daffara.

Whitsunday Open Squash Tournament drew over 80 nominations to a heavily sponsored event won by John Towler from Gladstone.

Junior Soccer. Whitsunday entered 2 teams in the traditional Mackay Under 10 Carnival in which goalie Neil McBride and forward Connie Hinschen played particularly well.

Pony Club took part in the Borthwick Cup with Peter Van Drie and Kelly Hinschen showing well.

NQ Archery Championships hosted by Whitsunday Archery Club were sent indoors by wet weather to Proserpine Primary school assembly area where 32 archers let fly.

Rugby League. Foley Shield Mackay Sea Eagles beat Whitsunday 16-2

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THE SHOW BALL – THEN AND NOW

May 7, 2026

Fosca Zeglio Show Ball Queen 1950s

The opportunity to dress up in one’s finest attire and dance the night away has long been a much-anticipated occasion. Our forefathers relished this opportunity to change from their everyday clothes – functional yet often dull and worn – and escape the humdrum of the daily grind of life and work. Records from our past paint a picture of a vibrant society in which people often enjoyed a ball a month!  

In the early 1900s, one of the most eagerly awaited balls was the Show Ball. The inaugural Proserpine Show Ball was held in 1910 at the Oddfellows Hall; the year of the first Proserpine Show. Papers described details of the gowns worn by the women who attended. In 1911, the “Proserpine Guardian” stated that the Show Ball was the most successful ball ever held in Proserpine. About 130 people danced until the small hours of the morning.  

The Great Depression of 1929 did not appear to dampen spirits with the Show Ball of that year heralded as “a great success. About 200 people spent a most enjoyable evening, the weather for dancing being ideal. Mesdames Mackenzie, Hinschen, and Holmes were kept very busyserving out refreshments. The sum of £28 was taken at the door.” (“The Daily Mercury” July 10, 1929)

Text Box 1, Textbox

In May 1948, “Proserpine Guardian” reported on the first show ball for years. In 1949, the popularity of its return was again demonstrated in the article below.  

The following year, 1950, was no exception with nearly 400 attendees and door takings of £93. A locally composed foxtrot added a novel feature to the evening. Composed and played by N. Ruge and Mr. W. Biggs (Jnr), it proved popular with dancers. Mrs. A. V. Perske wrote words for the piece, and it was intended to seek publication rights.

The tradition of selecting a “Belle of the Ball” at the Show Ball appears to have developed over time, though the exact year of its introduction remains unclear. However, Show Whitsunday’s 100 Year publication offers some insight, recording that in the 1950s, Miss Fosca Zegliowas a popular recipient of the title. As Show Queen, she won a week’s cruise aboard “Esmeralda” donated by Mr and Mrs E H Gray; Mr Gray being President of the Show Association. Although there has been no Show Queen competition for many years, in its heyday, especially from the late 80s to the 90s, it was a keenly anticipated showtime event and an important fundraiser held at the then Proserpine Cultural Hall.  

After a lengthy hiatus, thanks to the energies and enthusiasm of a young committee, the Show Ball made its return to the social calendar in May of 2021. With a changed venue and a different format, interest in the event has been reignited. This year, on May 23, the showgrounds will once again be the venue, and “Pretty in the Paddock” promises to be a fun-filled evening.  

Story and photo courtesy Proserpine Historical Museum

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GIG GUIDE – May 8th

May 6, 2026

Friday 8 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm – 7pm)

Grandview Hotel: DJ Night (8pm)

Saturday 9 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Oz Boyz (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)

Grandview Hotel: Zed Charles Band (8pm)

Sunday 10 May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Oz Boyz (2pm – 5.30pm)

Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

Coral Sea Marina Resort: Andrew Baldino (1pm – 5pm)

Grandview Hotel: Nite Johnson (1pm – 5pm)

Monday 11 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)

Tuesday 12 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)

Wednesday 13 May

Sorrento: Will Heta (1pm – 5pm)

Thursday 14  May

Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

Sorrento: Lucy Rose (1pm – 5pm)

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What’s On 8th May

May 6, 2026

May


12 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
12 Bowen Community Centre Open Day, 9.30am-11.30am
13 Luke Kidgell – Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7:30pm
16 & 17 Whitsunday Equestrian Group T-Shirt Competition, Cannonvalley Pony Club, 8am- 4pm
18 Placing of the flags, Proserpine Cemetery, 9am
19 Sailability Whitsunday, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 9am
19 Whitsunday Whale Heritage Area Information Night, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6:30pm
21 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am
23 Proserpine Show Ball, Proserpine Showgrounds, 6pm
24 Community Volunteer Expo, Bowen Sunday Markets
26 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
29 Speed Networking, Lumos Café, 7:30-8:30am
29 WSPN BBQ, Shirtfront Solutions Parking, 6.30am


June


3 Social Seniors, Cannonvale, 9.30am
6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Songwriting Summit, 9.30am-4pm
6 Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Concert & Conversation, Whitsunday Sailing Club, 6pm - 8pm
9 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am
16 Collinsville Open Cut Free Event
18 Social Seniors, Bowen Library, 10am
23 Social Seniors, Proserpine Library, 9am

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Meet the Stars: Brian Mannix

May 6, 2026

Brian’s band ‘Uncanny X-Men' were a staple of 80s rock. Photo supplied

Singer Brian Mannix is a staple of Australia’s cultural history. Whether it is acting, rock n roll vocals or musical theatre, Brian has had a vast and brilliant career.

Best known as the lead singer of Australian band ‘Uncanny X-Men’, Brian is renowned for classics such as ’50 Years’ and ‘Work’.  

He has also appeared as a guest role in the Australian soap opera Neighbours and famously performed at the 2006 AFL Grand Final.  

It was only natural that he would become a heavy-hitter performer for the Absolutely 80s show.  

“Scott and I did a couple of shows together and we thought – we should do this with more people,” Brian said.  

“Scott’s a whizz-bang booking agent and manager, so we thought we’d give it a go. Here we are 20 years later.”  

Brian will now head to Airlie Beach with the group, performing in a place he has always had deep admiration for.  

“I love coming to Airlie Beach. It’s a great little town, beautiful weather.”  

As a certified member of Australia’s music history, Brian reflected on what made his period of music so great.  

“The circumstances were great in the 70s and 80s. It was because you had Countdown. Most families only had one television. 3 million people would all tune in to Countdown every week.  


“Radio was also so strong back in the day. They would always be playing new music. Radio, Countdown, Hey Hey It’s Saturday – these all produced the stars.”

Brian expressed admiration for his musical co-stars who he continues to tour with as part of Absolutely 80s.  

“Scott and I are really good friends. Ally is a lovely person and incredibly smart. Wilbur’s always got something to say – he’s a good talker and a great sax player.”  

The singer can’t wait to participate in a big birthday bash.  

“I love birthday parties. I feel very privileged to be coming. I reckon we’ll have a lot of fun,” he said.

Brian will also perform the following weekend alongside Scott for their Back2Back Show. This is a special show featuring the singer’s hits along with covers Australian classics by icons such as INXS, Dragon, Models, AC/DC, Billy Idol, Spandau Ballet, Simple Minds and A-ha.  

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Meet The Stars: Scott Carne

May 6, 2026

Scott’s band ‘Kids in the Kitchen’ have toured with the likes of Culture Club Photo supplied

Legend Scott Carne has toured with and managed Absolutely 80s for over 20 years.  

The singer is best known for his role as lead vocalist of iconic 80s pop/new wave group ‘Kids in the Kitchen’ who formed in 1983. The group’s debut album ‘Shine’ went platinum yielding numerous top 10 singles such as ‘Current Stand’, ‘Something That You Said’, ‘Change in Mood’ and ‘Bitter Desire’.  

Scott brings his impressive background to Absolutely 80s, bringing together some of Australia’s most talented musicians for a show of rock-fuelled extravagance.  

“Everyone’s got a different story as to how we formed. Mine is that Brian [Mannix] and I along with a bunch of other stars really connected on the Countdown 2006 Spectacular Tour,’ said Scott.  

“20 years on we’re still working with the likes of Brian Mannix, Wilbur Wilde and Ally Fowler. It’s a lot of fun and high energy.”

“It’s fun being on stage together. It’s great to be able to get away for a few days to play at the great Airlie Beach Hotel!”  

The music often draws great crowds – a testament to its timelessness.  

“Sometimes you get Mums and daughters coming up. Some families will follow us around. We get a young crew attending as well. We do originals and covers. We’re performing music that holds a very special place in our heart.”

Scott says the key to putting on a memorable show is staying true to the music.  

“It’s about showbiz and having fun and getting everyone to dance and reminisce. We play the songs as the sound on the record. We go for a proper reproduction in respect to these great artists.”

Scott reflected on his passion for singing in the leadup to his performance – speaking of his heroes and icons he wishes to imbue.  

“In terms of heroes it would be Peter Garret, Farnesy, but especially Michael Hutchence. I met him backstage at Madison Square Garden. He was incredible. We lost a great one there.”

The music’s age has not made a dent on its longevity. Scott expressed his gratitude to still be performing after all these years.  

“I’m 61 and one of the younger ones to still be doing it.”  

You can catch Scott at both the Pub’s Birthday on Friday May 15th and over the following weekend as he does his Back2Back show with Brian Mannix.  

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Meet the Stars: Ally Fowler

May 6, 2026

Ally is a double threat with great acting and music credits to her name Photo supplied

Known for her acting as well as her music, multi-talented artist Ally Fowler will bring her extensive performance chops to the Airlie Beach Hotel.  

Ally is best known for her vocals as part of 1980s Australian Pop Group, ‘Chantoozies’ – known for hits ‘Witch Queen’, ‘Wanna Be Up’, ‘He’s Gonna Step On You Again’, ‘Kiss n Tell’ and ‘Love the One You’re With’.  

She has had a prolific acting career appearing on shows The Young Doctors, Sons and Daughters, Neighbours, The Flying Doctors, Frankie’s House and Wentworth.  

Like her co-performers, Ally Fowler became involved in Absolutely 80s during the Countdown Spectacular 2006 Tour.  

“There were a lot of 70s/80s acts doing a tour around Australia,” Ally said.  

“The Chantoozies were one of the bands on the lineup, as were Scott Carne and Brian Mannix. Scott approached us about joining the group. We started the odd gig, and performed with them occasionally. As time moved on the other Chantoozies left and it was just me. I’ve been doing it on my own with them for quite some time and it’s been a lot of fun.”

Ally has performed in Airlie Beach before and is excited to return.  

“I can’t wait. You have such beautiful weather. I’ve been to Airlie Beach a few times. I toured with a David Williamson play called Let the Sunshine which performed at Proserpine and we ended up staying in Airlie Beach. I was there for a few days and absolutely loved it.”  

Ally has also performed with Chantoozies in the region.  

“We were here about seven or eight years ago, opening for Leo Sayer. It was a big festival right by the beach. I have really happy memories of Airlie Beach and look forward to coming back.”  

Despite different music backgrounds, Ally expresses a clear fondness when describing connection with her bandmates.  

“We really come together because we have a shared history with a lot of common threads. We know a lot of the same venues and runs. We also know a lot of the same people because the industry really comes together. We perform slightly differently but that’s part of the charm. If we were all the exact same, you wouldn’t feel like you were getting bang for your buck. That fact that each person offers something different is fun.”  

Ally along with her performers are dedicated to putting on a good show.  

“We take the job seriously. We want to put on the best show possible. That’s the motto of the show. We have a lot of fun but hopefully that irreverence flows over into the audience. It’s a fun night.”  

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Meet the Stars: Wilbur Wilde

May 6, 2026

Wilbur’s great sax playing was enjoyed for years on the classic show Hey Hey It’s Saturday Photo supplied

Wilbur Wilde is not an individual who goes unnoticed easily. A saxophonist, television presenter, broadcaster and all-round character – he brings his charm and proficiency to the Absolutely 80s Show.  

Wilbur first got his start as a tenor saxophonist for groups Ol’55 and Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons in the 70s. He rose to fame through his role as part of the house band of the wildly popular variety television program Hey Hey It’s Saturday.  

He has made numerous TV appearances over the span of his career including The Flying Doctors, MDA, The Paul Hogan Show, Spicks and Specks and The Russell Gilbert Show. His CV even boasts a series of movie credits such as roles for Trojan Warrior, The Coolangatta Gold and Aussie cult classic Mad Max – an experience he is very passionate about.  

As a seasoned performer, Wilbur is no stranger to Airlie Beach.  

“I’ve been up a couple of times -- Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music. Once you’ve been there, you wish you could come back more often,” Wilbur said.  

His frequent visits have not dampened his excitement for his next return.  

“I’m really looking forward to visiting Airlie again. I was last here for the music festival a few years ago and it was just a fantastic vibe. I know I won’t be disappointed. I’m looking forward to a great time.”

When asked about how he got involved in Absolutely 80s, Wilbur merely replied – “I’m a rockstar.”

“We’ve known each other for a long time. I’ve worked with Brian and Scott in different outfits. Ally and I have done theatre together. We’re all friends so it’s lovely to get together. We’ve got a wonderful band.”

Despite his own talents, Wilbur showed true excitement at performing the hits of others.  

“The show is full of crowd pleasers. Kids in the Kitchen, Uncanny X-Men, The Chantoozies, Mondo Rock, The Angels. We’ve got a lot of faces covered with the great lineup of versatile singers.”

Wilbur can’t wait to bring the lively show to an even livelier venue.  

“The venue, I hear, goes off!!”  

With such a prolific career, one of the most interesting credits is Wilbur’s performance in the legendary Australian film Mad Max as one of the ‘young lovers’ in the first scene. Although his role was small, he spoke of the experience fondly.  

“I was only there for one day, but it was a fantastic experience. There were a few musos on set playing small roles.”

Head on down to Airlie Beach Hotel to witness Wilbur’s saxophone brilliance as he performs alongside a great set of talented performers.  

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Absolutely 80s: Behind The Birthday Show

May 6, 2026

Absolutely 80s features some of Australia’s most iconic music outfits Photo source: Facebook

Behind the celebratory birthday show is an iconic project that has featured an impressive roster of Aussie rock icons.  

Over the past 20 years, Absolutely 80s has been a who’s-who of Australian rock royalty, starring the likes of: Dale Ryder (Boom Crash Opera), Mark Gable (Choirboys), Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum (legendary music journalist and TV personality), Ross Wilson (Mondo Rock), Steve Kilbey (The Church), Grace Knight (Eurogliders) and Shane Howard (Goanna) – just to name a few.  

Each act sold hundreds of thousands of records nationally and internationally back in the 80s, and now they bring their expertise to the modern circuits.  

Absolutely 80s boasts a loyal fan base of 35,000 people across the country who show their support and prove that Australian 80s music has indeed stood the test of time. Whether it’s the austere grit of Midnight Oil, the sentimentality of INXS, the neurotic charm of Men at Work or the golden nostalgia of Cold Chisel, the period of music has maintained relevancy for its enthusiasm, authenticity and intensity.  

Songs such as the anthemic ‘Never Tear Us Apart’ (INXS), politically engaged ‘Beds Are Burning’ (Midnight Oil), sparse ‘Great Southern Land’ (Icehouse) among many others continue to receive frequent airtime, whilst Absolutely 80s take extensive circuits around the country.

Expect singalongs, energy, Friday night birthday vibes and big hits including ‘Everybody Wants To Work’, ‘Change In Mood’, ‘Wanna Be Up’, ‘Witch Queen’.

WHAT: The Pub’s Birthday Featuring Absolutely 80s ‘Supergroup’, FREE SHOW

WHEN: Friday 15th May, 5pm onwards

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

WHAT: BACK2BACK – Absolutely 80s, 2 FREE SHOWS  

WHEN: Saturday 16 May and Sunday 17 May, 2pm – 5.30pm  

WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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