Mackay will come alive in July as the 2025 Mackay Festival of Arts brings a dynamic showcase of art, culture, cuisine and entertainment. This year’s program promises to delight all your senses, broaden your horizons and leave you with memories that last a lifetime. Mayor Greg Williamson said the 38th annual festival would change gear in 2025 with sensational new events and different locations for regular crowd favourites. “This year, we have some outstanding new shows that have been sel
Read the full storyThe big top is back — and Hudson’s Circus is serving up a spectacular slice of Aussie circus tradition with a modern twist, right here under the canvas. With all the fun of the fair greeting visitors at the entrance — think games, fairy floss, dagwood dogs and all things gloriously carnival — the atmosphere is buzzing before you even set foot in the ring. At the heart of Hudson’s Circus is a proud nod to Australia’s rich circus heritage. Unlike the elephants and lions of old, the stars of toda
Read the full storyInternationally renowned comedian Jimeoin was set to perform his latest show, Pandemonium, at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) on 2 May. However, due to an ongoing medical condition, his performance has been postponed to 10 September 2025. Fresh off a sold-out season at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Jimeoin's Pandemonium promises an evening full of cheeky humour, razor-sharp wit, and comedic gold. Known for his observational comedy and infectious charm, Jimeoin's new t
Read the full storyFriday 2nd May Crochet & Conversation 9am Join a welcoming morning of crochet, coffee, and conversation with Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade. Bring your own tools or borrow from the communal box. All skill levels welcome—just look for the yarn to find the table. Connection and creativity guaranteed. Bucasia Beachfront Bar and Restaurant Board Games Night 5pm Board game lovers are invited to a fun-filled night of tabletop play. Choose from an e
Read the full storyFriday 24th Nov
• Paradiso: Mike Duff (7-10pm)
• KC’s: Aaron Saxon (8pm-Late)
• Metropole: Live Music (8pm-Late)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andrew Wishart (7pm-10pm)
• Grand View Hotel: TBC (from 8pm)
Saturday 25th Nov
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andrew Wishart (7pm-10pm)
• Airlie Beach Hotel: Dire Straits (2pm-5.30pm)
• Paradiso: Simon Briley (7-10pm)
• KC’s: Retro Joe (8pm-Late)
• Grand View Hotel: Dave Helgi Johan (from 6pm)
Sunday 26th Nov
• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (1-4pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andrew Wishart (7pm-10pm)
• Airlie Beach Hotel: Pink Floyd (2pm- 5.30pm)
• KC’s: TBA (8pm-Late)
• Grand View Hotel: Keiran McCarthy (2pm-5pm)
Monday 27th Nov
• KC’s: Kaedan McCarthy (8pm-Late)
Tuesday 28th Nov
• KC’s: Sam McCann (8pm-Late)
Wednesday 29th Nov
• KC’s: Louisa Taylor (8pm-Late)
Thursday 30th Nov
• Paradiso: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm-9.30pm)
• The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Matt Angell (6.30pm-9.30pm)
• KC’s: Louisa Taylor (8pm-Late)
GRANDVIEW
https://www.grandviewhotelbowen.com.au/whats-on/live-entertainment/
https://www.hotelmetropoleproserpine.com.au/whats-on/
Grandview gigs contact is Chloe
ABH: all acoustic is 7-10pm except Wednesdays & Thurs 6.30 - 9.30pm
Whether you're embarking on a musical journey as a novice, searching for your dream instrument as a seasoned professional, or in need of comprehensive event gear, Mackay Music stands as the reliable choice committed to meeting all your musical needs.
With a legacy of twenty-four years in the business, Owner Kelly Cacciola and her team have made Mackay Music a go-to destination for musicians of all ages and skill levels.
The team at Mackay Music boasts a range of expertise, catering to everyone from little kids eager to play the ukulele to school students mastering brass and woodwind instruments, and teenagers ready to rock out with their first electric guitars.
Christmas is a bustling time for the store that offers an extensive range of items from guitars, amps, violins, keyboards, and pianos to harmonicas and percussion instruments, including electronic drum kits.
Kelly stated, “Everyone has different needs and that’s what we’re here for, for them to come in and find what’s best for them.
“They might like the look of something, but it might not really be what’s best for the style of music they’re playing.” You can’t get the ‘hands on’ experience from looking online, you need to come in to feel and play the instrument.
As the holiday season approaches, Mackay Music is offering enticing deals that are sure to strike a chord with music enthusiasts. One popular offer is the Fender Pack, featuring the Squier Sonic Stratocaster, Squier Frontman 10 watt amp, along with accessories like a padded gig bag, 3 metre cable, strap, and picks priced at $529.
The Tanglewood Reunion electric/acoustic guitar is available at a discounted price of $349, a significant $150 in savings.
The mahogany Tanglewood Auld Trinity is another attractive option, now retailing at $399 down from $599. Additionally, the Tanglewood concert-size mahogany ukulele is on sale at $129, marked down from $179.
Mackay Music also offers low-cost shipping, ensuring that customers can access a wide range of instruments and equipment regardless of location. The convenience extends to both online and in-store support, as well as services like guitar and violin restringing and repairs.
To explore Mackay Music's full catalogue, visit their website at www.mackaymusic.com.au or drop by their store at 28 Sydney Street.
The infamous wall of electric and acoustic guitars at Mackay Music
Pianos, brass and woodwind instruments galore
Bongo drums are a quirky gift idea this Christmas
Photo credit: Sinead Porter
Every Wednesday morning from 6:30am to 10:30am, Mackay comes alive with the Mackay Farmers' Market Inc. at the picturesque Bluewater Quay.
Two years ago, stall holders started the incorporation to continue offering Mackay locals a chance to experience the midweek market. This is your go-to destination for all things fresh and locally sourced, with an abundant array of quality produce and products.
Start your morning right, with a cup of coffee in hand and a choice of delicious foods including dumplings, pies and sausage rolls.
You can explore stalls boasting a wide variety of goods, from fresh milk to artisan sourdough bread, eggs, pure honey, farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, tea and rich coffee blends, a selection of premium meats, pet treats, smoked smallgoods, olive oils, vibrant tropical flowers and plants and eco-friendly beeswax wraps– the Mackay Farmers Market has got it all!
What makes the Mackay Farmers' Market special is their commitment to sustainable living and supporting local growers. By choosing to shop local, you're not only getting the freshest produce but also contributing to the growth of the Mackay community.
Available products are advertised on social media leading up to the event, with produce sourced within a two-hundred kilometre radius of Mackay. Offerings straight from the grower assists in cutting out the big corporations.
Marketing Manager Loren Vanzella is passionate about her community and local produce, stating: “We are very grateful to our loyal customers for their ongoing support.
“The response to our challenges has been overwhelmingly positive and it’s wonderful to know that what we do makes a difference to so many.”
Some of the stalls welcomed by the market include but are not limited to the Mount Jukes Family Farm, Shore Fresh Seafoods, Venton’s Tropical Blooms, Zelenka Farms and many more.
Don't forget to bring your reusable bags – the market strives for an eco-conscious shopping experience.
Join the flourishing community every Wednesday at the Mackay Farmers Market, to indulge in the joy of shopping fresh, local, and midweek with quality and variety nestled against a beautiful backdrop at Bluewater Quay.
Visit Mackay Farmers’ Market on Facebook or Instagram for the latest information.
Pure n' Natural Honey
Eungelladale Milk
Zelenka Farms
Vintage Farmhouse Kitchen
Photo credit: Sinead Porter
The Paxton’s Portrait Prize is in its’ ninth year, this year introducing the Pet Portrait category with entries from talented artists from around the Mackay region.
The event is the brainchild of Lynn Robson and Melissa Larsen, both realising there was really no way for children and students to be able to exhibit their artwork in a local exhibition. This event provides a platform for young artists to show off their creative talents.
The event is themed around the Archibald Prize, with conditions that artworks must be a portrait of someone from Mackay, alive or deceased. It also has to have been created within the past twelve months, using any medium of choice.
The Paxton’s Portrait Prize is all ages inclusive, with Primary School, Secondary School and Open categories. Pieces are hung up on display, with a host of judges to decide the winners.
Teacher and Event Founder Melissa Larsen stated, “Seeing the wonderful community come together and support it, it's just fantastic”.
“People make an effort every year to go and create a work to go into it. The wonderful camaraderie of our Mackay community that gets behind all of this, it's really wonderful to see.”
Councillor Michelle Green had the pleasure of participating in the Paxton’s Portrait Prize as an esteemed judge this year. Michelle commented, “This is where you learn the ropes, and you get a direction to follow your passion.
“If it helps these little creatives go on to be larger creatives and into careers with that creative talent, I think that's what's so amazing about it.”
This year, the event has been held at the Jubilee Community Centre instead of its’ usual location at Paxton’s Warehouse which has enabled the exhibition to stay open for two weeks running until 24th November.
A highlight for the local community is the People’s Choice award for each category, where locals can visit the exhibition and pick their favourite piece.
Congratulations to all of the entrants and winners this year, who are fostering a brilliant array of talent in the local art scene for Mackay.
The Jubilee Community Centre came alive on judging day for the Paxton’s Portrait Prize
Photo supplied
Sophie Clayton 'On the Surface' Winner of Secondary School category
Ashley Holmes ‘Reading of Prayer’ Winner of Open category
Ryan Masendu ‘Self Portrait’ Winner of Primary School category
Annie Usher ‘Calling Home’ Highly Commended Open category
Photo Credit: Councillor Michelle Green
Friday 24 November
Friday Night Live Music
Every Friday from 5pm
Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.
Boomerang Hotel
The Radiators (Live)
From 8pm
Get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable night of classic hits, high-energy performances, and pure rock ‘n’ roll magic as The Radiators take the stage. | Tickets available at oztix.com.au
Seabreeze Hotel
Mackay Twilight Market
From 5pm to 8:30pm and Saturday 4pm to 8:30pm
Join us in the big shed for a festive evening of merriment with your loved ones. Shop for unique holiday gifts from the many charming market stalls, ran by small local businesses. | $2 adult entry - children under 17 years free of charge.
Mackay Showgrounds
Saturday 25 November
Mackay Showground Markets
Every Saturday from 6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
Falun Gong Classes
Every Saturday from 10am
Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace, and health through movement.
You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.
Live Music Saturdays
Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm
Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.
The Kooyong Hotel
The Wild Sky (Live)
From 6pm
Enjoy good tunes and great vibes. Come along for a great night! | Free entry.
Harrup Park
Sunday 26 November
Laura Frank (Live)
From 3pm to 7pm
Join an unforgettable live performance by talented musician, singer-songwriter, and DIY enthusiast who is known for her chart-topping singles and captivating stage presence. | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Sunday Bingo
Every Sunday from 7pm
Come along and you could win! | Free entry.
South Leagues Club
Monday 27 November
Full Moon Circle – Breathwork and Meditation
From 5:45pm to 7:30pm
Put down what you are carrying this Full Moon.
Connect with like-minded others in a supportive circle. We will move through a progression of breath work, some gentle movement, sound healing and meditation.
This circle is for you if you are craving more harmony in your life, would like dive deeper into meditation and connect with your breath and body.
Tea and nibbles will be provided. | Tickets at trybooking.com
Mackay CWA Hall
Trivia Night
From 6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!
Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?
Round up your friends and get your geek on!
Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club
Trivia Night
From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.
Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.
Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.
Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club
Tuesday 28 November
Baby Bounce
From 9:30am to 10am
The session features nursery rhymes, finger plays and songs. It's never too early to talk, read and tell stories with your child.
Please bring a small blanket for your child. | Free ticketed event, find yours at eventbrite.com.au
Sarina Library
Book Chat for Teens
From 3:30pm to 4:30pm
Drop in and tell us what you like, what you don’t like, what you’re reading, what you have read, what you would like to read.
Chat to others about your best (and worst) reading experiences. For young adults aged 12 to 18 years. | Free ticketed event, find yours at eventbrite.com.au
Gordon White Library
Wednesday 29 November
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy 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. $8 for members and $10 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Thursday 30 November
Mackay Riverside Market
Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm
Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.
Bluewater Quay
The emotional, human side of selling real estate is what makes it interesting, brings value to what we do. It is an important time for people and, as agents, we get to know and help buyers and sellers at a significant point in their lives.
And you get to know all sorts of people; the good, the bad, the powerful, the wounded, the clever, the fastidious, the generous, the not-so generous, the hard-working, the rich, the battlers … and that was just the buyers and sellers of the first house I ever sold. Not really, but you get what I mean.
A few years ago I sold a unit to a lady called Susan Nitz. Susan worked at Coles in Sydney Street and had saved hard to be able to buy her first home, a nice little two-bedroom unit.
Susan was single, in her 50s and lived a simple life; she enjoyed music, loved her cat, had a close and loving bond with her mother and had warm friendships with the customers and colleagues she knew at Coles.
She was a gentle, kind soul who saw the best in everyone and loved to help them. I really enjoyed selling her the property because it was so important to her and she was such a nice person. She had lots of questions and concerns and I was pleased to ease her through it all and hand over the keys to a delighted buyer.
A couple of years later Susan became ill and, sadly, died earlier this year. She was brave and stoic and didn’t tell people what she was going through. Even her mother, Ethel, didn’t know about her illness until its late stages.
Her passing hit Ethel hard. The two of them shared a bond, partly through their love of country music, and had lived together for years. A mother shouldn’t have to bury her daughter. It rips your heart out.
It was left to Ethel to look after Susan’s affairs and a couple of months after she passed away Ethel rang me and asked me to sell the unit I had sold to Susan.
So, I got to know Ethel over the past few months, dropping around to get her to sign listing documents, disclosure statements, contracts and the like. Talking about her life, Susan, the terrible loss and the beautiful memories.
There was a lot of interest in the unit and I sold it to a young woman in her early 20s called Katie. Katie is a warm, energetic, hard-working, optimistic soul from a supportive local family who knew Susan and remember her fondly from shopping at Coles.
Somehow it seems so much better that Katie bought Susan’s unit rather than some investor from down south who needed a positively geared rental to balance out their portfolio of shares and property.
You might think that selling real estate is only about bricks and mortar and money. You would be wrong.
We’ve officially gotten to the time of the year where it’s socially acceptable to get excited for Christmas. With that, Star and Mackay Women’s Services officially launched the 2023 Hamper Drive!
The Hamper Drive will officially run until Friday December 8th, and we are asking businesses, schools and individuals to donate hampers to the Mackay Women's Centre. These can be gathered in a box or washing basket and can include non-perishable food and Christmas gifts or other similar style items.
If you’re in need of some hamper filler ideas I’ve done the hard work for you:
• Milk
• Pasta and pasta sauce
• 2 Min Noodles
• Biscuits
• Christmas Bon Bons
• Custard
• Jelly
• Pudding or Cake
• Tin Fruit
• Tuna
• Taco Kit
• Lollies
• Crisps
• Tea and Sugar
• Tinned Veggies
Also, any toy donations will go to children of all ages. Toys or gifts for a variety of ages would be suitable, as would gifts for the mother of these families. Vouchers for movies, Timezone or even the grocery store would be greatly appreciated.
Any hamper donations you collect you can drop directly to the Mackay Women's Services at 418A Shakespeare St, West Mackay. Or get in touch with us at Star to see what we may be able to arrange.
Kaley
Award-winning films will illuminate Mackay’s big screen from 17th to 19th November. Prepare for an extraordinary cinematic experience BCC Mount Pleasant, with a selection of highly-acclaimed new films from across the world.
The Travelling Film Festival (TFF) is the touring arm of the Sydney Film Festival and began in 1974, bringing assorted genres to regional and rural locations that would not ordinarily get to see them.
This year’s Opening Night film is Sundance Audience Award-winner ‘Shayda’, a stirring and inspiring drama about an Iranian migrant battling the legal system to protect her 6-year-old daughter in Australia.
‘Anatomy of a Fall’ is a must-see inclusion, winning the Sydney Film Festival Audience Award in 2023 as well as the 2023 Cannes Palme d’Or. This tense psychological drama sees an author accused of murdering her husband.
Winning over 30 international awards is semi-autobiographical drama ‘Riceboy Sleeps’, a warm, endearing, shot-on-16mm treasure about a Korean mother and son’s migrant experience in Canada.
Just awarded Best Film of 2023 by the International Film Critics Federation, is ‘Fallen Leaves’. The story features a lonely supermarket worker and an even lonelier metalworker creating a delightfully deadpan courtship.
‘Perfect Days’ has been earning smiles and swelling hearts, with classic rock tunes from the likes of Van Morrison and Prince permeating this poetic reflection on the beauty to be found in the everyday, from renowned filmmaker Wim Wenders (Wings of Desire).
Berlinale-nominated ‘Blackberry’ puts the invention of the first smartphone and the rise of “tech bros” under a savagely funny microscope, resulting in a boisterous and dramatic tale for our time.
Three Australian short films accompany the program, including dark comedy ‘Chum’, a story about a blind woman who bonds with a stranger; but all is not as it seems.
‘Katele’ is spoken in English and Kala Kawa Ya and is set across a Far North Queensland and Torres Strait Island backdrop.
Animated story ‘Teacups’, based on the true story of Don Ritchie, who’s calm and comforting intervention saved many lives near his cliff-top home and is narrated by Hugo Weaving.
Manager of Travelling Film Festival Annie Parnell stated, “We are delighted to be returning to the region, which has hosted the Travelling Film Festival for some years, to showcase this special program of award-winning features and short films.
“There are stories from around the world, with gripping drama and laugh-out-loud comedy that we are sure will please the Mackay cinema-goers, both returning and new!”
Tickets to the Travelling Film Festival Mackay are now on sale at sff.org.au/tff/program/mackay
'Anatomy of a Fall' movie poster
'Fallen Leaves' movie poster
The first Mackay Hospital Foundation Cinema Under the Stars is coming to Sarina this weekend and is bringing the Christmas spirit!
With gates opening from 4pm, families will be greeted with all sorts of children’s activities, from jumping castles, face painting, market stalls, as well as tonnes of food vendors, and of course, Santa Claus.
And the headlining movie is the family favourite Elf, starring Will Farrell.
Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate said, “The Cinema Under the Stars movie nights have been regular events in Mackay for quite some time but this will be our first Cinema Under the Stars in Sarina. Entry is very cost-effective at $5 per person or $20 per family. All proceeds raised at the event will be directed back to Sarina Hospital so the Sarina Community can rest assured that they will be the ultimate beneficiaries of this event when visiting Sarina Hospital.”
There will also be the chance to win a VIP experience for the night, which includes a personal covered area, an inflatable lounge and food vouchers to ensure no one is left hungry.
Ms Algate added, “We are so pleased to be able to bring this event to Sarina. We hope to see many people throughout the local community taking advantage of this event with a difference and share in some early Christmas Spirit with us.”
WHAT: Cinema Under The Stars, Sarina
WHERE: Sarina Showgrounds
WHEN: Saturday November 18, from 4pm
Travel lovers from across the region are invited to come along to a special trivia night held at Harrup Park next Thursday, 23 November. Not only will attendees enjoy a fun and lively trivia evening, they will also get to meet 20 travel partners who will be on-hand to answer questions about a range of travel destinations. There will also be a selection of Black Friday deals up for grabs.
For one night only, 20 travel experts representing exciting travel brands, will be visiting Mackay and ready to talk to attendees at the Trivia By Travel Associates event next Thursday.
This is your opportunity to speak with the experts, take advantage of some Black Friday deals and brush up on your travel knowledge.
The trivia night kicks off at 6pm and is hosted by 4MK Radio star, Rob Kidd, with the evening sure to be lively and entertaining for all.
Each table will consist of eight people so get your friends together and book your place.
Tickets are just $25 and include a share platter on your table.
The Trivia Champion, decided by a quick-fire round, will secure a remarkable prize—a 12-Day Norwegian Coastal Voyage for two guests.
This features a journey cruising through the world-renowned fjords, providing a front-row seat to the mesmerizing spectacle of the Northern Lights or the phenomenon of the midnight sun.
If you can’t make it to the trivia evening and want to make the most of the Black Friday offers – contact the team at Travel Associates to make an appointment 07 4940 0500.
Visit Travel Associates Mackay on Facebook for more information or to secure tickets.
WHAT: Trivia By Travel Associates
WHERE: Harrup Park
WHEN: Thursday, 23 October
TIME: 5pm – 8pm
Junior Sportsman of the year 2023 – Hugo Williams
Junior Sportswoman of the year 2023 – Lily Moore
Terry Wake Memorial Award – Kane Dyne
Paul Le Bherz Memorial – Wesley Homewood
Keith Shiels Memorial Award – Hannah Moore
Senior Sportswoman of the Year 2023 – Hannah Moore
Senior Sportsman of the Year 2023 – Gausa Dau
MVP Junior Rugby League – Elli Dau
MVP Junior Rugby League – Taleisa Savelio
MVP Senior Rugby League – Isabella Gillroy
MVP Senior Rugby League – Winlee Petersen
MVP Junior Netball – Harris Wright
MVP Senior Netball – Hannah Moore & Tilly Mitchell
MVP Senior Netball – Tate McGrath & Kane Dyne
MVP Cricket – Wesley Homewood
MVP Rugby 7s – Elli Dau
MVP Rugby 7s – Trinity Blake
North Queensland Representatives
Wesley Homewood
Willow Gaffney
Marcus Yasso
Diesel Bonds
Byron Piggott
Gausa Dau
LJay Barton
Brakley Pham
James Madlangsakay
Mathew Lust
Hugo Williams
Jacob Logan
Jamie Jacobson
Lily Moore
Remy Hedges
Hannah Moore
The annal Whitsunday Cricket Sevens is back for 2023, and the Proserpine Cricket Association is more than excited.
This is one massive weekend of great cricket, perfect for every novice or avid fan of the sport.
Each team will have seven players a side, with players of all ages and abilities.
Each game with be short, to allow plenty of social time.
All weekend, there will be tones of music, fun, games, daily prizes and raffles, and even food and drink vans.
There will be three grades of teams, to ensure that everyone is able to get the most out of the day.
Be quick, as nominations for this social event close 5pm, November 30. To sign up, email Craig Brown on brownhouse003@gmail.com for a nomination form. Complete form and send it back to Craig by November 30.
Each team incurs a nomination fee of $100 per team, regardless of the number of players, to be paid prior to game day.
For any enquiries, feel free to ring Craig on 0427 764 828.
WHAT: Whitsunday Cricket Sevens
WHERE: Proserpine Cricket Grounds, Kelsey Creek Road, Proserpine
WHEN: Saturday December 9 and Sunday December 10, from 8.30am
SIGN UP BY: November 30, 5pm
Rockers of Bowen, get ready for one of the best rock festivals around. And this one has an extra special cause.
T8T Fest is a rock festival to remember Nicholas Tait, who passed away in 2016, following a diagnosis of an aggressive Melanoma. Nicholas fought the hard fight for 16 weeks before he passed away.
Nicholas was an avid musician who loved performing and rocking out, and so his family and friends got together to create T8T Fest.
The rock music festival is also a fundraiser for Melanoma research and the Australian Melanoma Research Foundation.
2017 was the first T8T Fest and now seven years on, the 2023 festival is gearing up to be hell of a show.
Here are the headliners:
Headrush, belting out the classic 70s, 80s, 90s and a few noughties heavy rock tracks.
Cameron Bartlett, specialising in old school blues, rock and 60s and modern country and pop.
The Fox, a high energy pop and punk cover band, with nostalgic flare.
Damon Leary, a youth solo acoustic artist who will be covering American country and classic pup rock.
And lastly, Gleezus, the up-and-coming youth rockers out of Bowen High, who are making waves in the rock scene.
How will you rock out this weekend?
WHAT: T8T Fest
WHERE: Bowen Sporting Complex
WHEN: Saturday November 18, from
TICKETS: Entry via donation at the door
T8T Fest organisers, at the inaugural festival in 2017. Photo supplied
Airlie Beach is welcoming music icons Dire Straits and Pink Floyd, under the guise of dutiful recreation and tribute by artists Money For Nothin and Crazy Diamonds, led by front man Terry McMahon.
Money for Nothin
Terry has been dedicated to perfecting his craft, becoming the epitome of Mark Knopfler, replicating his mystifying guitar riffs and techniques and vocal prowess with uncanny ability.
“The Money for Nothin show started over six years ago, because we wanted to make a show that we’re passionate about,” explained Terry.
“The show is all things Dire Straits!”
Terry had been playing guitar and performing in tribute shows for over 30 years, before he decided he wanted to branch out with a new show that he was passionate about.
“We all love Dire Straits, and all the boys in the band are seasoned professionals when it comes to recreating the songs,” Terry said.
You will be transported to the 70s and 80s, back into the clutches of a Dire Straits show, and be blown away by the unwavering perfection that is Money for Nothin as the Dire Straits.
“And lucky for me, Dire Straits are known for their music, not for a distinct look! They liked to play in whatever was comfortable that day, so no costumes or anything like that. However, Mark liked to wear his headbands, which always get a laugh out of the crowd when I ‘get into uniform’,” Terry laughed.
Not missing any of the ultimate classics, Money for Nothin will perform ‘Sultans of Swing’, ‘Romeo and Juliet’, ‘Walk of Life’, ‘Lady Writer’, ‘Your Latest Trick’, ‘Tunnel of Love’, and their namesake ‘Money for Nothing’.
Crazy Diamonds
Cut your teeth with this one and be ‘Comfortably Numb’.
Led by the ineffable Terry McMahon, Crazy Diamonds is a seamless recreation of the tracks of Pink Floyd, of the timeless, unbeatable and psychedelic classics that propelled the boys in pink to their initial and now long-lasting stardom.
With a track for everyone, this performance will keep the crowd dancing, and the enjoyment high.
“We pick the songs that everyone knows, even if they’re not fans, they’ll recognise the tracks. We just wanted everyone in the crowd to be happy and loving the show,” Terry said.
“Both shows are a tonne of fun, and we love having fun with the crowd, surprising them with the very best songs and letting the music do all the talking.”
WHAT: Money For Nothin: Dire Straits Experience
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, November 25, from 2pm to 5.30pm
TICKETS: Absolutely Free!
WHAT: Crazy Diamonds: Pink Floyd Tribute
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Sunday, November 26, from 2pm to 5.30pm
TICKETS: Absolutely Free!