Coral Sea Academy offers an extensive range of events, aimed at locals and visitors alike, discussing topics that are meaningful to the Whitsundays, and to inspire the community to do more.

The Coral Sea Academy focuses on providing interactive events to consciously connect people to not only boating, but the environment and themselves, leaving them feeling inspired and empowered.

Embark on a journey that inspires you to become a part of something bigger, to make the change and be the change.

The following activities present to you that opportunity;

ART CLASS

WEDNESDAY 21 FEB | 9am - 12pm
Unleash your inner creativity. Capture moments of joy from your day. Using the materials provided you will be able to create a colourful picture of the things that make you smile.

CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY

SUNDAY 3 MARCH | 8.30 - 10.30am
Family friendly event starting at Coral Sea Marina. Spend the morning collecting any litter you can find on land or sea. All litter will be sorted and the data will be collected for the Australian Marine Debris Initiative.

WOMEN IN BOATING

FRIDAY 8 MARCH | 2 - 3.30pm
Join us on International Women's Day for a celebration of the resilience of women. Hosted by Author and Resilience Coach Natalie Stockdale, this empowering session provides tools to navigate life's challenges. 

2nd ART CLASS

WEDNESDAY 20 MARCH | 9am - 12pm
If you can’t make the first art class… come along to this one!

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Introducing KC’s Bourbon Bar, exclusive and enigmatic and perfect for the locals and visitors. With a slight restructure to keep locals on their toes, this imaginative Bourbon Bar will take front and centre stage of KC’s Bar and Grill restaurant, in the encompassing warmth of the main dining room.

The only bourbon bar in the Whitsundays, KC’s is taking Airlie Beach by storm, adding a layer of rich and aromatic flavours to the KC’s menu.

And the grand opening will be a sight to behold, with the team of KC’s ready to mark the night with the scent of bourbon.

Troy Fuller, Head Chef of KC’s Bar and Grill, has a specially curated menu for opening night, utilising the secret ingredient of bourbon in every aspect he can.

“We’ve tried to incorporate bourbon into our cooking as much as possible,” he explained.

“We’ve got a starter of slow cooked bourbon brisket, with a choice of chimichurri.

“For mains, we have two options. One is a 12-hour bourbon marinated rib fillet, with chip and salad and potatoes and vegetables,” Troy said.

“The second option is bourbon glazed pork ribs, with crispy apple slaw and chips.”

Satisfying your taste buds is easy at KC’s, with Troy carefully concocting the best blend of bourbon delicacies, of the sweetness of a cool bourbon steak, and the smooth finish of a bourbon on the rocks.

With 80 carefully hand selected bourbon varieties gathered from across the globe, the team of KC’s Bar and Grill are ensuring an oaky, beautifully charred flavour for locals and visitors alike to tantalise their tastebuds.

And don’t miss the cocktail specials that are setting the night alight, with rich flavours and perfectly paired with the exquisite menu, all specially crafted by special guest, cocktail connoisseur Blair Frew.

“We will have a great mix of the classic bourbon cocktails on the menu,” he explained.

“Plus a few signature originals that I have worked on just for KC’s.

“And don’t miss our fun modern twists on some old school classic cocktails, which are sure to entice everyone.”

This official opening is not to be missed.

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WHAT: Official Opening: KC’s New Bourbon Bar
WHERE: KC’s Bar and Grill
WHEN: Wednesday February 21

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Up-and-coming musician Tiffany Grace has returned from renowned Tamworth Country Music Festival Country Music Academy, extending and progressing her own skills as a solo musician, songwriting and performing.

Having launched onto the stage in recent years, Tiffany has seen great success, from winning the Young Whitsunday’s Got Talent in 2022, to performing alongside other musicians at the 2023 Whitsunday Songwriter’s Festival and being a headliner for the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

Tiffany’s acceptance at the Country Music Academy held in Tamworth in January is a testament to her hard work and dedication to her craft.

“It was absolutely amazing,” Tiffany explained.

Staying in Tamworth for the 14-day Academy, Tiffany lived every aspect of country music life, completing workshops, practicing her playing, and collaborating on her songwriting.

“We even had a songwriting workshop with Casey Chambers,” Tiffany explained.

“We were having so much fun that the time just flew by.”

“I found it so great to spend time with other musicians, where we could all relate to each other and help each other,” she explained.

“Our passions are all so similar, so now we are all connected, and we can always ring one another up and get a hand.”

Tiffany believes that attending the Academy in 2024 was perfectly timed with her skill and technical development, with her coming home with newfound confidence and energy that is translating to exciting new music and projects.

Having recently released her fifth single, entitled ‘Never Really Mine’, Tiffany continues to reflect on youth, of unrequited love, and her music is reminiscent of a longing love.

“I always have big plans for 2024 and looking forward to releasing new music and sharing my music.

“The Academy has allowed me to expand my skill set, and my music is going off in a bit of a different direction, a few mixed styles.”

Listen to Tiffany’s newest track ‘Never Really Mine’ and her other music at https://www.tiffanygracemusic.com.au/

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1. Tiffany Grace on stage with other Academy participants

2 and 3. Tiffany Grace’s solo career setting new sites in 2024. Photos supplied

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This is an explosive mix that tastes so sweet with the delectable flavours of a margarita, and The Mad Mariachi Band which are sure to bring the heat!

Created in the heart of tropical Queensland, and intensely packed with the flair and beats of traditional Mexican Mariachi music, this show offers more than a dash of contemporary rhythms.

From the creative imagination of Nelson Mansilla, The Mad Mariachi Band is best described as a “spaghetti-western Mexican music”.

“We’re non-traditional,” Nelson explained.

“We have a mixture of Mexican feel with eclectic beats.”

Traditionally a 16-person band, The Mad Mariachi Band tilts Mexican music on its head, introducing a trumpet, violin and guitar which explode the beats and get the crowd moving.

“Once we’re on stage, we read the audience and make up the show from there,” Nelson explained.

“On the spot, we decide what energy the audience is giving, if they want more traditional Mexican music, but we can also perform popular contemporary music with Mexican twists.”

Sure to be a hit in Airlie Beach, with our beachy relaxed energy, The Mad Mariachi Band are bringing their best for World Margarita Day, with surprises galore up their sleeve.

“Airlie Beach, get ready!”

Visit the Airlie Beach Hotel on Thursday, and get your FREE Sombrero, El Jimador Sunglasses and Mexican Moustaches!

WHAT: WORLD MARGARITA DAY: The Mad Mariachi Band
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Thursday, February 22, from 6.30pm to 9.30pm

WHAT: The Mad Mariachi Band
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Friday, February 23, from 7pm to 10pm

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Soul Divas, Belt Out The Beats!

With a career spanning numerous years and various unbelievable professional opportunities, including being lead vocals on Dancing With the Stars, and being a guest judge on Channel 7’s All Together Now, Sarah C is a powerhouse of prowess.

With an incredible range, Sarah C is a performer not to miss, and she is bringing her brand new performance, Soul Divas, to the Airlie Beach Hotel stage.

Brand new for Airlie Beach, Soul Divas sees Sarah C take on some of the greatest voices of this century, from Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Tina Turner, Diana Ross, Amy Winehouse, Adele and so many more.

With a soulful voice and powerful stage presence, Sarah C and her Soul Divas production is not the show to miss.

WHAT: Soul Divas
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, February 24 and Sunday, February 25, 2pm to 5.30pm

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“Odd Couples – A Season of One Act Comedies”

Presented By Kucom Theatre

Review by Vicky Bobeldyk

Last week, Vicky reviewed The Extraordinary Revelations of Orca the Goldfish by David Tristram. This week, we explore the remaining two plays in Kucom’s three-play comedy act, Odd Couples.

Call Centre Call by Bruce Olive

Directed by James Hunter

Frustration we can all relate to is the focus of the second play on the bill, in which Henry McThistle played by Michael Brennan experiences several automated voices when on phone calls. Set in the time of flip-phones and terrible dial-up, Henry just needs to ‘talk to a real human’ about his intermittent broadband. What he receives is a never-ending stream of selections he must make on his phone.

Brennan’s third play with Kucom sees him much more at ease on the stage, his delivery is more natural as he connects, as we all can, with Henry’s mounting frustration. Two newcomers play the Voices – Jaki Pianta and Rebecca Williams. Pianta has some complex repetition which can become monotonous, but she delivers them with superb comic timing. Williams’ role is a little more complex as her role has two different versions in another case of fantasy versus reality. Which version will Henry choose?

What’s For Pudding? By David Tristram

Directed by Bronwyn Grannall

When the question is asked ‘What’s for pudding?’ frustrated Mary played by Pia Larsen explodes on her dull, accountant husband, Jack (James Hunter) of how bored she is, how boring their lives are and that it in no way involves dessert of any kind, let alone pudding. They are interrupted by the unexpected arrival of couple Maureen (Tessa King) and her husband Ted (John Irvine) and later, the hopeless Dennis (Andrew Deguara) who just wants to order some pants from Mary’s catalogue.

Plying themselves with far too much whiskey, the cold reality of the state of both couples’ relationships and the reason behind Mary’s mood are revealed.

Larsen as ever, delivers a humorous, well-rounded, natural and relatable character as she holds the narrative together. Hunter relaxes along with his character to produce some beautiful and funny moments. Irvine and King, utilise their combined vast experience to create endearing characters but it is Deguara who once again steals the show with his superb comic timing. In a similar role to that he played in ‘The Vicar of Dibley’, Deguara maintains his focus then whips out his punchlines with joyous, thigh-slapping precision.

In all, wonderful, light-hearted evening (or matinee if that suits you better) of fun and laughter thanks to the folks at Kucom Theatre.‍

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Remaining sessions at Kucom Theatre:

Thurs - Sat 8-10 Feb at 7:30pm

Duration: 2 hours plus 2 x 20 min intervals

Contains adult content

Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/odd-couples-a-season-of-one-act-plays

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James Hunter and Jack and Pia Larsen as Mary in ‘What’s for Pudding?’

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The Soroptimists of Mackay are inviting the community to their ‘Celebrating the Connections of Community’ display, at the Jubilee Community Centre Foyer, open until the end of February.

The Soroptimists of Mackay is a group focusing on bettering women's rights, issues affecting women and girls, and creating equality for everyone, and the Mackay group concentrates on assisting vulnerable individuals in the community anyway they can.

The Mackay of the Soroptimists were established in 1976, and are an integral group to Mackay, supporting and raising funds for key Mackay organisations and services.

The group acts to advocate for women, one of their key services includes J’s Wardrobe, at the Mackay Base Hospital, which equips patients and individuals with clothing, providing them with dignity of wearing clean and supportable clothing.

Ways the community can help the Mackay Soroptimists:

   • J’s Wardrobe is always accepting casual clothing that does not have drawstring closures or belts. This is required so that the clothing can easily be put on by patients who have arrived at hospital in an emergency situation.

   • Clothing donated that is not appropriate for the hospital, the Soroptimists host pre-loved clothing stalls, which fund the purchase of new underwear.

   • Their Bags for Dignity Program consistently requires brand new personal toiletry items, including sanitary pads and tampons, shampoo and conditioner, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, soap and container, hairbrush, lip balm, face wipes, socks, water bottles, shopping bags, and backpacks.

   • Donation of pencils and pencil cases for their Smith Family Mackay.

   • Any other preloved or new materials that are not appropriate for other programmes are contributed for their Bags for Change Project, with St Vincent’s de Paul Support Service.

For those wishing to hear more about the Soroptimists of Mackay, or to donate, contact the Soroptimists on simackay@siswp.org or ring 0431 707 010.

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Whether your child dreams of a professional dance career or simply wants to get active and make friends, Dance Express has the perfect class! Here your child can find a safe space where they are free to express themselves, build friendships and set the stage for a lifetime of creativity and confidence.

From our Award-Winning Ready Set Dance Program for Preschoolers, our V.I.Prep class exclusive to Preppies and our extensive School Aged Program, we can help meet your child’s unique needs, personality and ability. We offer a full range of classes including: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Singing and Cheer.

Through their Ready Set Dance Program, Dance Express has become the go-to studio for over 120 of Mackay’s Preschoolers.

“We are so proud of our Preschool Programs and love the Confidence, Coordination and Creativity it cultivates in our Preschoolers from Walking Age to 5yrs. As a Premium Partner studio, we offer the full range of classes including: Dance, Ballet, Acro & Move which is a class designed for Toddlers and their Parents!” Karen Bishop, Director of Dance Express explains.

“We understand the busy timetables that families juggle and want dance to be a stress-free activity! From one 45-minute class a week to elite training, we have a class and time to suit all families.

“2024 is certainly the perfect year to get into dance! We have huge plans for our 20th Concert and can’t wait to celebrate with you all,” Karen says.  

After 20 years in the biz, Dance Express continues to be a home away from home for so many dancers and is proud to be a safe and stable third place for the young people of Mackay.

Dance Express will be in full force at the upcoming Mackay Sports Expo, so come and say hello to our friendly DE Team and get your child moving in 2024!

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Fun and smiles at Dance Express Mackay / Photo Credit: Dance Express (Facebook)

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Unlock a world of new passions and opportunities for both adults and children alike at Mackay's ultimate sport and recreation event—the JET Group Mackay Sport and Rec Expo!

With over 100 clubs gathered under one roof, this expo is your one-stop destination to explore a vast array of sports and activities.

Mayor Greg Williamson invites attendees to dive into the action-packed day, featuring interactive booths, active zone demonstrations, and thrilling competitions.

From parents seeking new sports for their kids to adults eager to discover their next adventure, there's something for everyone to explore and enjoy. Embark on a journey of discovery as you try your hand at Scouts' rope bridges, dragonboat paddling, woodchopping, and lawn bowls—all within the vibrant atmosphere of the MECC.

Plus, with a relaxed session at the start of the event, inclusivity is ensured for all attendees.

Thanks to the generous support of JET Group Mackay, attendees have the chance to win fantastic prizes, including $1000 for one lucky club and exciting giveaways for individuals.

Join us on Sunday, February 11th, from 9 am to 1 pm, and ignite your passion for sport and recreation. Don't miss this opportunity to explore new horizons and create unforgettable memories. Visit mackay.qld.gov.au/sportexpo for more information.

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What: JET Group Mackay Sport and Rec Expo

When: Sunday, February 11, from 9am to 1pm

Where: The MECC

Tickets: Free entry

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Participating in team sports is a cornerstone of a child's holistic development, offering a wealth of benefits that extend well beyond the boundaries of the playing field. As children eagerly put on their jerseys or lace up their cleats, they embark on a transformative journey that shapes their physical health, social skills, emotional resilience, and cognitive abilities.

Team sports contribute significantly to the physical wellbeing of children. Regular engagement in physical activities helps build strong bones and muscles, fosters cardiovascular health, and instills a sense of commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Beyond the immediate physical advantages, involvement in team sports cultivates discipline as children commit to regular exercise and training routines.

The social development derived from team sports is equally invaluable. Being part of a team teaches vital interpersonal skills, including communication, cooperation, and teamwork. Collaborative experiences encourage children to share responsibilities, strategise together, and celebrate victories as a cohesive unit. Through wins and losses, they develop resilience, humility, and a deep understanding of the importance of supporting teammates.

Emotionally, team sports provide a platform for children to navigate a range of feelings, from the elation of success to the disappointment of defeat. Learning to manage stress, cope with setbacks, and handle diverse emotions contributes to the development of robust self-esteem and confidence.

Cognitively, participating in team sports enhances decision-making and critical thinking skills. Understanding game strategies, anticipating opponents' moves, and making split-second decisions on the field all contribute to cognitive development. Moreover, team sports often involve learning and adhering to rules, promoting a sense of order that can positively impact a child's academic performance.

The communal spirit forged through team sports extends beyond the game, fostering lasting friendships and a sense of belonging. Shared experiences, challenges, and triumphs build a strong sense of community among teammates. This communal aspect teaches children to respect diversity, appreciate differences, and work collectively towards shared goals.

Team sports play a pivotal role in shaping a child's character and fostering holistic growth. Through the joyous chaos of the playing field, children absorb life lessons that contribute to their becoming well-rounded individuals. Whether scoring a goal, making a crucial play, or cheering on a teammate, the transformative power of team sports for children is undeniable, leaving an enduring impact on their journey toward adulthood.

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The old school field was put to good use last weekend when families from across the region attended the second annual Slime Fest, held by Proserpine YouthSpace to raise money for children’s activities, programs, and future events.

Over 75 excited children registered on the day, embarking on a slime-fuelled obstacle course where buckets of bright coloured ooze were fair-game for slime-filled cannons shooting plumes of spray at anyone on the field.

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Local children of all ages enjoyed having fun with no-one escaping the slime! Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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The Zonta Club of the Whitsundays is welcoming the community to their 2024 International Women’s Day Luncheon, to celebrate the women of the world, and the amazing influence and contribution they make to their individual communities.

With an array of notable guest speakers, a glass of bubbles on arrival, and a three course lunch, the Zonta Club of the Whitsundays will also host an exciting auction and raffle, with the likes of water adventures, a helicopter ride, and island stays on the cards for attendees.

One guest speaker is the likes of influential Dame Carol Kidu AO.

Dame Carol is an Australian-born Papua New Guinean politician, whose political career began in 1997 before she retired in July 2012.

During her time in parliament, Dame Carol was the driving force behind various important reforms in Papua New Guinea, including the repeal of the colonial Child Welfare Act, changes to the Criminal Code on rape and sexual assault, and bringing in new legislation on child sexual abuse and sexual exploitation.

In 2023, Dame Carol was recognised for her work with an Order of Australia, and in 2005, she was made a Dame by the Commander of the Order of the British Empire.

With much more planned for the event, it is best to purchase tickets before they sell out!

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WHAT: International Women’s Day Luncheon, by Zonta Club of the Whitsundays
WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Resort
WHEN: Sunday, March 10

TICKETS: $95 available through whitsundaytickets.com.au

The Zonta Whitsunday Ladies enjoying 2023 International Women’s Day. Photo supplied

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This will be a weekend of rock, a weekend of beats, and a weekend where the show must go on, there is no doubt about that.

Get ready to rock, with the Queen Rocks tribute show checking into the Airlie Beach Hotel for one weekend of two massive rock shows!

With intricate beats and accurate costuming, plus a dash of suspended disbelief, be transported to the heyday of Queen, hear the unforgettable tracks of Freddie Mercury, and rock out the only way you can.

“We started as just a group of mates wanting to play our favourite Queen songs,” Jason Hess, the group’s ‘Freddie’, explained.

“We loved the music and wanted to pay our respects, and from there, it just grew into the tribute show it is now.”

Bringing on accurate costuming and the unforgettable energy, Queen Rocks embodies everything that Queen represents.

“We use the same equipment, and wear the same costumes,” Jason said.

“We enjoy honouring their legacy and pay our respects the best way we can. We have dedicated much of ourselves to this show, in order to produce the best show imaginable.”

The music will be alive, with two hours of non-stop classics, the audience should be prepared to be out of their chairs, moving to the beats and swaying with the energy.

Now, what is Jason’s favourite track to belt out on this show?

“I love playing ‘Somebody to Love’. The beats and rhythm are so joyous and excited, but the lyrics, when you really listen to it, are so sad and sombre,” Jason explained.

“We love letting the music go and getting the crowd in on the chorus. It’s great for audience participation.”

And what is Queen Rock’s go-to track to get the crowd going?

“’Bohemian Rhapsody’, hands down, gets the crowd going like no other. We’ll play a few strings, hint to the song a little, and instantly everyone knows what’s about to happen. It’s great to get the audience up and singing, belting out the lyrics and dancing to the music.”

“’Bohemian Rhapsody’ is great to capture the excitement of the room, so put your dancing shoes on, and get involved!”

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WHAT: Queen Rocks: The Definitive Tribute
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, February 17 and Sunday, February 18, from 2pm to 5.30pm
TICKETS: Free! But it’s recommended to book a table!

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Photo supplied

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Brought to life by the likes of Harley Mann, a Wakka Wakka man of Queensland, THE WET speaks to traditional North Queensland, of connection, and of being one small cog in a much bigger wheel of life.

Produced and performed by Circa Cairns, THE WET is led by First Nations People, and is made of an ensemble showcasing the heart and soul of Cairns, speaking to the country of Far North Queensland, of the tales of the landscape and the legacy of yarns with community and country.

Telling of ancient stories of the wet tropics, audiences will be shown artistic displays of human prowess, of unforgettable and dynamic acrobatic skills, rooting the audience in the connection of country and of being from North Queensland.

As the shows tag line depicts:
You don’t know Far North Queensland if you haven’t experienced THE WET.

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WHAT: THE WET
WHERE: The Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: Thursday, February 29, From 8pm
TICKETS: proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

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