For the third year in a row, the Whitsunday Tourism Awards are featuring the Whitsunday Business Awards, with nine categories for businesses that are not necessarily tourism relevant.

A partnership between Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Whitsundays, and Bowen Tourism and Business, the Business Awards recognise and celebrate the greater business community in the wider Whitsundays.

The nine categories include Excellence in Customer Service, Most Outstanding Retailer, Most Outstanding Booking Service, Most Outstanding Hospitality Venue, and Most Outstanding Services Provider, as well as the four Bowen, Collinsville, Proserpine, and Whitsundays Business of the Year.

Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce President Allan Milostic believes in the benefit of these awards.

“The Chamber recognises and values the vital contribution tourism and hospitality makes to the region’s economy and our way of life,” he said.

“However, it is equally important to recognise the significant number and economic contribution of the professional services, retail businesses, trades, and other industries that also contribute to our region.

“These awards celebrate a range of businesses and shine a light on the diversity and strength of the Whitsundays business community.

“The Chamber offers its congratulations to the award winners and nominees and encourages the community to support all local traders.”

Leanne Abernethy, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business is proud that they sponsored the Bowen and Collinsville Business Awards.

“We believe that tourism is everyone’s business, so we wanted to include non-tourism businesses in the awards,” she said.

“For example, in Bowen, the grey nomads come from the Southern states and stay for three months, this means they support tourism and business in the region; they get their car serviced by locals, buy their groceries, get haircuts, and support our retail businesses.”

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The Whitsunday Coast Chamber of Commerce is excited to be launching the Whitsunday Business Awards this Friday. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Over 30 tourism operators in the region have been nominated across 31 different categories for the 2023 Whitsunday Tourism Awards across.

In addition, 45 local businesses were nominated in nine different categories for the Whitsunday Business Awards.

The diversity of businesses encapsulates the full depth and breadth of the incredible offerings here in the Whitsundays - from individual contribution to eco-tourism, accommodation and customer service – every aspect of what makes our region great is included.

Here is the full list of the 2023 nominees:

Business Awards

3 Little Birds Espresso

Airlie Beach Babysitting by Danielle

Airlie Beach Swim School by Danielle

Airlie Health Hub

Bowen Vet Clinic

Divine Weddings Whitsundays

Dynamic Chiropractic

Eden Events Whitsunday

F45 Training Airlie Beach

Iconic Whitsunday Adventures

Kerri Southee at Tropical Rentals Whitsundays

LiveLife Pharmacy Cannonvale

Magnums Unique Accommodation Airlie Beach

Palace Hair and beauty, Kingsmen Barber Shop

Peninsula Airlie Beach

RV Golf Proserpine Golf Club

Tropical Rentals Whitsunday

Whitsunday Creatives

Elysian Retreat

Ocean Rafting

Airlie Pies

The Belvedere At Toscana

Airlie Health Hub

Hickmotts Super News

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday

Kapow Interactive

Little Fish Tourism Development Consulting

Party Cakes Whitsunday

Ripple Effect Online

Shiift Pty Ltd

Whitsunday Shire Family Day Care

Birds Fish Bar - Bowen Fishermans Seafood

Bowen Flexi Care

Bowen Holiday Park

Ideal placements

Muroona gardens

Rynn's Seafoods

STACKELROTH Farms

Whitsunday Sweet Edible Art

Collinsville Connect Telecentre

Pit Pony Tavern

Kingsmen Barbershop

Proserpine Golf Club

Prossy Kebabs and Pizza

Core Life Magazine

Cuppas on the cape

Mackay and Whitsunday Life Newspaper

Tourism Awards Nominations

The Big Mango, Bowen

Great Barrier Reef Festival

Whitsunday Segway Tours

Kiana Sail and Dive

Scamper Island Camping

Bell Tents Whitsundays

Whitsunday Coast Airport

Shute Harbour Marine Terminal

Little Fish Tourism Development Consulting

Bowen Tourism and Business

Ocean Rafting

Cruise Whitsundays

Whitsunday Segway Tours

Scamper Island Camping

SeaLink Whitsundays

Iconic Whitsunday Adventures

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort

Queens Beach Tourist Village

Tasman Holiday Parks Airlie Beach

Phoenix One

Elysian Retreat

Accom Whitsunday

Pinnacles Resort

Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach

Mirage Whitsundays

InterContinental Hayman Island Resort

Whitsunday Water Bikes

Driftwood Tours

Grand View Hotel Bowen

The Whitsundays Visitor Information Centre

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The Whitsundays is renowned for punching well above its weight when it comes to winning awards at both a state and national level.

Over the years several operators have reached for the stars, travelling to state and national awards and returning with far-reaching recognition that has opened doors for them within the broader industry.

Many local operators have won at the national level over the years and, last year, nine Whitsunday-based businesses received an award at the prestigious Queensland Tourism Awards.

These state awards included three gold, three silver and three bronze awards.

At the time, Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the Queensland Tourism Awards celebrated a remarkable year.

“It has been terrific to see Queensland domestic tourism bounce back so strongly with a nation leading $19.6 billion in overnight visitor spending,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

Meanwhile, this year both Airlie Beach and Bowen were nominated for Top Small Tourism Town and the Top Tourism Town Awards by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC).

Airlie Beach was successful in its bid and became the Top Small Tourism Town in Queensland for 2023.

Bowen were in a highly competitive category and unfortunately did not win on this occasion.

Some of our exceptional local businesses have also claimed industry awards recently.

Queens Beach Tourist Village in Bowen won gold at the Grey Nomads Awards last year, backing up two consecutive previous gold awards in the same category.

If they win gold again at the 2023 Grey Nomads Awards, they will be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

With such high-quality tourism operators in the region, this evening’s Whitsunday Tourism Awards is likely to be a very competitive arena.

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Local tourism operators celebrating when Airlie Beach won Best Small Tourism Town in Queensland earlier this year. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Writing a submission for the Whitsunday Tourism Awards is renowned for being a huge undertaking and, at a whopping 10,000 words per submission, it is no wonder that many operators feel a little daunted at the prospect.

While the process does take time, however, there are some serious benefits to writing a submission.

Not only do you have the opportunity to promote your business on a regional, state and possibly even national stage, but by writing a submission you also find out a lot about your business.

Local owner operator, Julie Telford from Red Cat Adventures credits her award submissions for opening up a new understanding of her business, learning more every time she writes a submission.

An award veteran, Julie has brought home several national awards and over the years has developed strategies that maximise results.

Meanwhile, local tourism operator Elizabeth Hackett from Magnums Accommodation, has been both an award winner and a state judge.

Elizabeth offers wisdom from both sides.

“The awards were an absolute game changer for my business,” she said.

“At first my expectations were very limited – but I realised the submission questionnaire I’d been given was actually assisting me with a marketing plan, a business plan and the eco side of my business.

“To have this template in front of me, my expectations grew year on year and where I started was quite different from where I finished.”

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Top Tips

For The Perfect Submission

1. Use the guide – The people who follow the guide to the letter have the best submissions because they always reference back to it.

2. Show your passion – We can usually tell when the submission’s been written by someone involved in the business directly.

3. It’s all about storytelling – Make it readable and engaging, try to give real examples and case studies to illustrate how you are implementing everything.

4. Pre-plan if you can - Keep a special file where you put anything relevant, the best submissions are planned throughout the year and built-up gradually.

5. Include images and graphics – Take the opportunity to attach extra information, images, and graphics, to maximise the overall impression of the submission.

6. Take it in bite-size pieces - The guide is 91 pages but don’t feel overwhelmed, simply take it in sections and answer each part as you go.

7. Be prepared and start early – Do not leave it until the last minute, start early to give yourself plenty of time to make it perfect.

8. Don’t worry about sharing – Some people worry judges may steal ideas but all information shared with the judges is confidential.

9. Use all support offered – The team at Tourism Whitsundays and QTIC (Queensland Tourism Industry Council) are there to help you along the way.

10. Have fun and show passion – A genuine, heart-felt submission will always come across better than something that is clinical or reserved.

Contributed with thanks to judges Mark Henry and Elizabeth Hackett.

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Third time’s the charm for The Beatnix, the world’s longest running Beatles tribute, who are visiting the Airlie Beach Hotel for the third time, with many more visits planned.

“We absolutely love Airlie Beach and the Airlie Beach Hotel,” explained Dave Stanley, the band’s George Harrison.

“We always look forward to our Airlie Beach shows. The shows are always more chilled out with a cruisy crowd and a great atmosphere. We really appreciate that too.”

Dave is the band’s George Harrison, the lead guitarist for The Beatnix, and in charge of some of the best beats.

Andy Pole is John Lennon, one of the vocalists and rhythm guitarist.

“Just close your eyes when you hear Andy, and he sounds just like John Lennon. He’s a dead ringer for him, it’s great,” shared Dave.

Paul Wheelan is Paul McCartney.

“It’s so easy that Paul is Paul, easy for us to remember! Paul’s a fantastic singer and an amazing vocalist. He can scream-sing just like McCartney.”

And finally, Bradley Hughes is Ringo Starr.

“Our youngest member, at 21-years-old, Bradley is a great Ringo, dominating the drums.

“He actually used to be a fan of ours and The Beatnix when he was a teenager, and now he’s joined us as our Ringo.

“We have a diverse cast of characters, but each of us bring our own energy to the stage, our own flare that keeps the band and the shows fresh.

“We also try and make our sound as close to The Beatles as possible.

“We are one of the longest running Beatles tribute artists, and we’ve been doing it for a while.”

What can Airlie Beach expect?

“This show will be new. It won’t be identical from our previous shows at all.

“We always try and mix up our set lists, so people can expect all the classic big hits, with some more obscure album tracks, which are sure to be fun and exciting.

“We also have some new costumes that we’re excited to unveil on the stage.

“But we’ll leave that all as a bit of a surprise, so it’s best to come and check out the show.”

And what does The Beatnix expect from Airlie Beach?

“We love the energy that Airlie Beach has; it’s always a great hangout and chill spot to enjoy the day away.

“But also, I’ve been waiting for the chance to see a crocodile out in the wild, in Airlie Beach, so maybe this time, I’ll stumble across one.

“Three times in Airlie Beach and no crocs!”

WHAT: The Beatnix

WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday October 28 and Sunday October 29, 2pm – 5.30pm

TICKETS: Completely free! But recommended to book a table

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Much loved tribute artists, The Beatnix, return to Airlie Beach for the third time!

A psychedelic performance, that everyone will enjoy

With amazing costumes and even better stage presence, this is not the show to miss

Fun for the whole family, at the Airlie Beach Hotel

Allow yourself to be taken back in time with these timeless classics. Photos supplied

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Fleur McDonald Ready To Visit Bowen

Regional Australian novelist, Fleur McDonald is taking her readers back to the fantastic backdrop of regional Western Australia, with eclectic and personable sweep of characters that leave readers wanting more.

Poignant and powerful, Fleur’s newest novel ‘Voices in the Dark’ follows charming Sassi Stapleton, who rushes home following a worrying phone call from her mother. Hurrying home to Barker, she swerves to miss a kangaroo and rolls down an embarkment.

By the time she is discovered, Sassi hears the unfortunate news that her grandmother had passed away.

For the Stapleton family, it becomes clear that her grandfather is not able to live by himself, and Rasha enters the home, as his carer.

Mr Stapleton is happier than ever, however bruises begin to appear on his skin. The question is raised, but who would hurt Mr Stapleton: Sassi, his granddaughter, Amber, his daughter, or Rasha, his carer?

“The idea came when I was on my last book tour,” Fleur explained.

“I was driving on the Hume Highway, coming from Canberra, when this ute flew past me at a really rapid rate. That’s pretty keen on the Hume Highway, when I’d already seen three cop cars. Later on, I saw the ute pulled off the road, and I saw the driver, a lady, with her head on the steering wheel, upset, and I wondered what happened, to make her so suddenly upset.

“That’s where the opening scene of ‘Voices in the Dark’ came from.”

From there, the story of ‘Voices in the Dark’ appeared before Fleur.

“More often than not, it’s actually just sitting down, swearing at the computer, and knowing that what you’ve written is absolute crap, and just going back and editing it later,” Fleur laughed.

For Fleur, she attempts to make sure that every one of her over 20 books are different.

“I don’t want people to read the book thinking, ‘oh yes, I’ve read this before, but it’s just different characters so I really try to make every book different from what I’ve written before.”

What can readers expect from ‘Voices in the Dark’?

“That’s a bit of a thought-provoking question!

“’Voices in the Dark’ is a trademark Fleur McDonald, with fantastic suspense, with the quaint loveable characters, and just a really good rollicking story; our world is pretty crappy at the moment and anything that I can do to help people escape from that reality.”

Robyn Batman, from Whitsunday Libraries, says that the library team is extremely thrilled to have Fleur visiting Bowen with her new novel.

“She is much loved and widely read in our region,” she explained.

“There is so much excitement of her visit. The local newsagents will have her books ready on release day, and us at the library will have her book ready on hand for her visit.”

WHAT: Fleur McDonald ‘Voices in the Dark’

WHEN: Saturday November 4, from 10.30am

WHERE: Bowen Library

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Fleur McDonald visits Bowen on tour with her new book, ‘Voices in the Dark’. Photos supplied

The next instalment of the decadent Coral Sea Resort Long Lunch is happening soon, and everyone is invited to enjoy a relaxing and indulgent afternoon.

The wine will be flowing, and the food will be divine for the last long lunch for the year, so if you’ve been planning to go, this is the best time to get a ticket!

With the cruisy atmosphere, set on the beautiful backdrop of the Coral Sea, this long lunch has been perfectly paired with an imaginative and creative menu, created by Sous Chef Marielo Varela.

“We will again be producing a 6-course menu this time written by our talented Sous chef Mario Varela,” explained Braydon Harriott, Food and Beverage Manager.

An indulgent and decadent six course Spanish themed degustation menu, each dish has been articulately paired with beautiful wines, which complement each and every aspect of the dish.

“Mario Grew up in Galicia Spain and has been a chef for 10 years,” Braydon said.

“He is taking the opportunity to step up and show-off some of his culture for a Spanish inspired menu.”

On the wine list is a selection of Spanish wines, each carefully handpicked.

While you dine in style, allow all your worries to be washed away with the eclectic and serenading sounds of a live musician.

Wear your best white outfit and relax your Sunday away!

WHAT: Coral Sea Resort Long Lunch

WHERE: The Jetty, Coral Sea Resort

WHEN: Sunday, October 29, from 12pm

TICKETS: $150 per person available through whitsundaytickets.com.au

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Bask in the warmth of the last Coral Sea Resort Long Lunch of the season. Photo supplied

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Airlie Beach Food Truck

Secluded and intimate, the Whitsunday Food Garden is the perfect spot for an evening getaway.

Hidden in its alcove it is Ismi’s Kitchen, with lovingly crafted Indonesian dishes, Let’z Waffle with sweet and savoury options, perfect for every time of day, and finally, the Airlie Beach Food Truck, known to some as Kimbo’s Slice.

Owned and operated by Whisper Gin Bar and Restaurant, the Airlie Beach Food Truck is decadent in classic Australian offerings.

“Airlie Beach Food Truck is a great combination of gourmet burgers, chicken wings and everything else that people love,” explains Kim Mullings who proudly looks after the food truck and is a crucial part of Whisper team.

Airlie Beach Food Truck was first on the scene for the Whitsunday Food Garden, with Ismi’s Kitchen following shortly behind. Since then, the Food Truck has become a staple for locals and visitors alike.

“We have the classic burgers, chicken wings and loaded fries with various toppings, but we also change up our menu seasonally, so locals can have something different to try and also keep the Truck interesting.”

Open seven days a week, for lunch and dinner, the vibes and atmosphere make for a fantastic meal in the heart of Airlie Beach Mainstreet.

“The Whitsunday Food Garden is a beautiful spot, and we’ve recently opened the other side of the Food Garden, facing the water, so now people can grab a meal and sit by the water, under the twinkling fairy light,” explained Zibby Deca, chef at Whisper, who also looks after the catering arm of the business.

“All three of the food trucks offer such different menus that we perfectly complement each other.” Everyone can just grab their favourite meal, sit down, and enjoy the view,” he said.

On the Cruise Ship days, Food Garden team ensure all food trucks are open early, servicing the thousands of people streaming into town for one single day only.

“We cater for the families, locals and tourists, for whoever wants to have a great snack, there’s always an option for someone. We have very high quality of product, and at a great affordable price, in a fantastic spot in the centre of town, so the Whitsunday Food Garden is not to be missed by anyone in town,” said Kim.

And every Thursday, don’t miss the fantastic and eclectic Night Markets, with local stallholders and buskers.

“The Night Markets are great,” said Kim. “They attract a lot of locals and tourists, and it’s a great option if someone wants to spend a few hours with the kids in a great spot. It’s also an alcohol-free zone, so families can have a great time and enjoy themselves.”

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Garin Stone, Kim Mullings, and Zibby Deca. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Now in its fifth year, Young Whitsundays Got Talent is gearing up for its Heat and Grand Final this weekend, with over 10 musicians readying themselves for the beach stage.

With seven bands and six solo vocalists, all local to Airlie Beach and Bowen, named in the line up, this will be one of the best events showcasing local, independent music.

Event organiser and coordinator, Paula Hovey, began Young Whitsundays Got Talent in 2019 after realising a gap in events for youth in the region.

“There isn’t a lot for kids to do here,” she explained.

“So, I just decided to put this together and its just blown up since then.

“It is such a good event for young people and aspiring musicians, and each and every year, the event has just gotten better and better.”

Over the years, contestants have seen fantastic progress, with the 2019 finalist, Noah Robertson, a 13-year-old who recently returned to Australia after performing alongside big names in America.

As well as this, the 2022 winner Tiffany Grace has been selected into the 2024 CMAA Academy of Country Music in Tamworth.

In fact, Tiffany will be performing this weekend at the Grand Final, alongside the 2023 contestants.

“It’s always a good day of music,” said Paula.

Prizes for the winning act include $250 prize money, one hour time slot at Lola’s Bar on November 26, guitar and stand pack from Airlie Beach Music Centre, and a backstage opportunity at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music, being able to see the backstage process of professionals on the main stage.

“Everyone is welcome, with this weekend going to be extra exciting with fantastic music.”

WHAT: 2023 Young Whitsundays Got Talent Event

WHERE: Northerlies Beach Bar

WHEN: Sunday October 22, from 1pm

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2022 Contestants of Young Whitsundays Got Talent. Photo supplied

Get ready for an evening of great energy and fantastic vibes, with some of the best folk and contemporary musicians stopping by the Whitsundays on their Summer Tour.

With the likes of Assynt and Jackie Marshall, who are known for their electric music of folk, country, rock, and improvised art and music.

Produced by the team behind the world-renowned Woodford Folk Festival, this tour is heating up to be a great event for a warm summer’s night.

Marking its 9th tour, the 2023 iteration will see the tour explore 18 small coastal communities and welcome this fun-loving folk adventure.

WHAT: Festival of Small Halls Summer Tour

WHERE: Whitsundays PCYC

WHEN: Friday December 1, from 6.30pm

TICKETS: https://bit.ly/3QkMGXx

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Mackay Northern

Beaches State High

School Year 12 Formal

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THINGS I KNOW TO BE TRUE

Andrew Bovell's controversial play, Things I Know To Be True, is coming to Mackay for a limited season, from Thursday 19th October.

Directed by Victor Scott (When the Rain Stops Falling, Ruthless - the Musical), Things I Know To Be True  explores the complexities of the Price family - a typical suburban family on the surface, but with some interesting secrets. Described by the Globe & Mail as "quietly devastating", the play combines issues such as gender confusion, sexual inequality, redundancy, and embezzlement in a thought-provoking context that will have you looking at your own family with fresh eyes.

Bovell’s play has enjoyed international success following its 2016 premiere by the State Theatre Company South Australia, being performed in the United States (2019), Canada (2023), Britain, and Spain, as well as at the New Theatre in Sydney (2022). It has also been adapted into a miniseries for Matchbox / Amazon / Blossom Films for production in 2024.

Kucom season dates: 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 & 28 October at 7.30, with a matinee on Sunday 22 October at 2pm.

Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/things-i-know-to-be-true

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Friday 13 October

Trophy Eyes – Regional Australian Tour

7:30pm

Renowned Australian post-punk rock band, Trophy Eyes, are embarking on a mighty

Australian regional tour this October. The tour serves as a continuation of the festivities

surrounding their latest Top 10 ARIA album, Suicide and Sunshine.

Don’t miss out on seeing Trophy Eyes’ unreservedly candid and emotionally charged

storytelling, joined by special guests Dear Seattle. | Get your tickets at oztix.com.au

The Seabreeze Hotel

The Feels (Live)

9pm – 1am

Join the crew at Moss on Wood and let loose with the incredible sounds of The Feels!

Get ready to groove, sway, and dance like nobody’s watching! It’s going to be a night filled with unforgettable beats and fantastic vibes. | Free entry.

Moss on Wood

Friday Kirtan Meditation

6:30pm - 8pm

2nd and 4th Friday of the month.

Kirtan meditation is a unique experience that will transport you to a world of inspiration, peace and joy, far beyond the stress and worries of life.

Kirtan sessions weave live music with sacred yoga chants in a relaxed, uplifting atmosphere where you can easily experience spiritual connection.

Delicious chai and dessert will be served after the meditation session. | Free event, register at eventbrite.com.au - Donations are welcome

QCWA Hall

Significant Other (Live)

8pm – 12am

Experience an incredible evening of live music with Significant Other.

Come along for a great night! | Free entry.

Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

Kids Class – Stretch, Breathe and Meditate

5pm – 5:45pm

2nd and 4th Friday of the month

Fully guided kids classes, aimed at ages 7-12.

These classes cover some basic stretches to get the energy flowing, guided relaxation, mindfulness, and meditation. Our kids classes aim to provide children with simple tools to assist with calming the mind and building emotional resilience. | Free event, register at eventbrite.com.au - Donations are welcome.

QCWA Hall  

Saturday 14 October

Mackay Showground Markets

6am – 10am

Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.

Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.

Mackay Showgrounds

Mackay Orchestra and Bands Festival

9am to 3pm and Sunday 1pm – 3pm

Ensembles from over 20 schools and community groups will come together to perform a balanced program of repertoire.

There will be 42 different ensembles performing over the 2-day festival in front of an adjudicator who will be grading and providing important feedback to each band on the performance of their choice of music rather than against each other, making this a unique music competition. | ENTRY FEES: $5 - Adult, $ 2 - Child/Concession, Children under 5 - free OR $10 per family

Mackay Christian College, Faith Centre, Kings Park Campus

Rocktober

7pm

Get ready for a night of Rock ‘n’ Roll mayhem, dress up as your favourite Rock or Pop Star and join us for an unforgettable evening. Live Music: The Feels 7pm to 11pm, delivering your favourite rock and pop hits. Air Guitar Competition. Best Dressed Prizes. Courtesy bus available. | Free entry.

Seabreeze Hotel

Busby Marou – Blood Red Album Tour

6pm

Busby Marou have gained the reputation as one of Australia’s hardest working live bands, best known for their distinctly Australian storytelling and gifted musicianship.  Their 5th album, “Blood Red”, is out on July 21st, and they are taking the band on the road to celebrate.

Busby Marou will be joined by special guest Jem Cassar-Daley | Tickets available at oxtix.com.au

Harrup Park

Sheffield Shield and March Cup

Starting 10am Saturday

Featuring the Queensland and Victoria men's teams, the four day match will take place from 14th to 17th, followed by a Marsh Cup one day game on Thursday October the 19th.

Featuring some of the biggest names in Australian Cricket. | Tickets available at eventbrite.com

Great Barrier Reef Arena

Sunday 15 October

BarbsWired (Live)

11am - 2pm

Cap off your weekend with a live performance from BarbsWired. | Free entry.

Seabreeze Hotel

The Wild Sky (Live)

3pm - 7pm

End your weekend on a high note with a live performance from The Wild Sky. | Free entry.

Seabreeze Hotel

Monday 16 October

Rescue Chopper Week

Starts Monday 8:30 am

Register to hold a fundraiser, such as a sausage sizzle, free dress or crazy hair day during Rescue Chopper Week, one lucky school will win a helicopter landing on their school oval and visit from the RACQ Rescue crew!

You can also score a host of great prizes by entering the colouring and short story competitions during Rescue Chopper Week, from October 16 to 20.

Jump aboard, have some fun and raise funds! | Register at cqrescue.org.au

Mackay Healthcare Virtual Job Fair

11am – 2pm

If you are looking for a job in Mackay, Queensland then you're in the right place. Interview with multiple recruiters from Mackay's top employers. Register today and land your dream job. | Register at au.jobfairx.com

Online Event

Tuesday 17 October

Mackay Roadshow 2023

9am - 2pm

Awesome Women in Construction (AWIC) will be running a roadshow throughout North Queensland which will include visiting a large variety of education providers and industry site tours.

The roadshow will be highlighting the economic security, empowerment, and recognition of women in non-traditional roles within the construction industry through regional Queensland.

This program is aimed at female students who have shown an interest in the construction industry or may want to learn more about the construction industry as a career.

Mackay Leisure Centre

B2B Brews & Breakfast

8am – 9am

Supporting Anti-Poverty Week. Breakfast and coffee provided. Your donation of a non-perishable food item on the day is very much appreciated.

The Neighbourhood Hub, 4 George Street

Wednesday 18 October

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. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 19 October

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

Gin Appreciation Evening

6:30pm

THE DISPENSARY will be holding their last Gin Appreciation Evening for 2023!

The evening will feature 5 gin tastings with a 3 course menu designed by THE DISPENSARY head chef, Alex. If gin is your drink of choice this is one event you don’t want to miss. | Tickets available online.

The Dispensary Mackay

Sleeping Beauty – Royal Czech Ballet

7:30pm

Following their 2022 performances of Swan Lake, the Royal Czech Ballet return to Australia with their presentation of the classic masterpiece, Sleeping Beauty. | Tickets available at aumec.sales.ticketsearch.com

Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre (MECC)

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Mackay mega-band, The Wild Sky, have secured the final spot in the Passport To Airlie competition and will now join eight other finalists from all over the country in opening the mainstage at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music next month.

Over 200 people came to watch the five finalists that had been selected out of 30 local acts to perform at the Passport To Airlie Mackay Finals on Sunday afternoon at the Metropolitan Hotel.

National Coordinator of the Passport To Airlie Competition, Cherrie Hughes, said the event was a spectacular display of local talent.

“There was a real mixture of ages and cultures supporting live music,” she said.

“Music is one of these universal things that brings people together.”

Natasha Hardiman, Mackay Passport To Airlie Coordinator, said that she was also thrilled with the turnout this year.

“The Wild Sky was this year’s undeniable winner, and we can’t wait to see how these boys go in the national finals!”

The Wild Sky will perform on the opening night of the Airlie Beach Festival of Music alongside seven other musical acts from around Australia, each one the winner of their respective and highly contested heats.

Gravy Train (Darwin), The Robert Cini Band (Cairns), Staremaster (Sunshine Coast), Funk Knuckle (Brisbane), Venus Fly Trap (Byron Bay), Avalanche (Newcastle) and Ally Row (Melbourne) each received a spot.

The Passport To Airlie final will be held on the main-stage in the big-top tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club on Thursday, November 9 and the whole family are invited to come along and listen to these quality aspiring musicians perform.

At just $10 entry or free for three-day ticket holders, this event is open to under 18s as well and is a great way for local youth to experience festival vibes and immerse themselves in musical culture.

Each of the Passport To Airlie Finalists will also perform once a day at one of the 14 different venues around town, so there will be plenty of opportunities to see them live.

Tickets are selling fast to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music and, with leading acts such as Ian Moss, Ross Wilson, Frenzal Rhomb, Dragon, King Stingray and Billy Field, it’s easy to see why.

Attendees can choose between a single day ticket or a weekend pass and individual $10 tickets for the Passport To Airlie Finals.

With its idyllic waterfront setting in the grounds of the Whitsunday Sailing Club, and across the tropical township of Airlie Beach, there is no other music festival in Australia or globally quite like the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

From 5-star resorts to budget-friendly backpackers and camping at beautiful caravan parks, Airlie Beach has an accommodation option for everyone. Bookings during the four-day event are filling up quickly, so holidaymakers are strongly advised to book ASAP.

For more information or for tickets to the 2023 festival from November 9-12, visit www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au, and follow @airliebeachfestivalofmusic on Facebook and Instagram.

WHAT: Passport To Airlie National Showcase Final

WHERE: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Main-stage

Whitsunday Sailing Club

WHEN: Thursday, November 9 from 6pm

TICKETS: $10

WHAT: Airlie Beach Festival of Music

WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club and 14 local venues

WHEN: 9 – 12 November

TICKETS: www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

Natasha Hardiamn (Soulful Entertainment - Regional Host), Michael Peters (Bass Player The Wild Sky), Ronny Croker (Vox & Lead Guitar The Wild Sky) Evan Daly (Drums & Vox The Wild Sky), Cameron Smith (Judge), Josh Notting (Judge Swoon School Of Rock), Elly Hanlon 9Airlie Beach Festival of Music)

L-R Front Row

Daniel Farmer (Judge Whitsunday Anligcan School) and Lindsay Crowley (Judge)

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With over 3000 attendees at the Mackay Seniors Expo 2023, this year's event was full of vital information for our beloved elder community.

The expo featured an array of exhibitors, including those in health and wellness, entertainment, emergency services, food vendors, and more.

Eventgoers had the opportunity to grab some goodies from various agencies and small businesses, as well as enjoy a social outing with friends and family.

Relive the Seniors Expo 2023 through these delightful social snapshots; and see you again next year!

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Photo credit: Sinead Porter

Glenice Ellis and Michelle Sparkes

Ron and Lorna Bowers, Paul and Nerell Schmidtke

Ted and Beverley Farrell

Don and Barbara Hargreaves

Peter Williams and Jan Lansbury

Warren and Shirley Sturgeon, Mackay City Bowls Club

Teresa and Denise, Mackay Fibre Arts Association Inc.

Kerry Casey, Sandra Doyle and Ian Hamilton, With One Voice Choir

Gary and Junita Alonglord

Jack and Ray

Marian, Joan, Pam & Julene, Sew Create Donate Mackay

President Robyn and Member Colin, Mackay Combined Probus Club

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