Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
I’ve been reading the book ‘The Language of the Night’ – a collection of essays by superstar writer Ursula K. Le Guin. Ursula K. Le Guin was perhaps one of the most influential, successful and prolific authors of the 20th century. She was not boxed in by any category finding acclaim in a wide range of genres and formats. She is known for her epic fantasy series ‘The Wizard of Earthsea’ and reflective science fiction pieces in her ‘Hainish Cycle’ series. She has won the Hugo Award, Nebula Award and National Book Prize. In her witty sardonic collection of essays, Le Guin defends science fiction and fantasy as important and worthy means of literature – a direct response to the elitist critics of the time who condemned speculative fiction as merely for kids. One thing I really enjoyed was learning about her process. She talks about writing fiction as a process of discovery rather than planning. In some of her most acclaimed novels she never used a plan or scaffold – she just simply started writing. I love thinking of writing and creativity as a process of discovery. It’s as if our creation is actually a search for something deep inside of us that we previously were not aware of. She’s a great author who I would absolutely recommend to just about anyone. I am also reading her science fiction masterpiece – ‘The Left Hand of Darkness’. Definitely a brilliant piece of philosophical and existential ponderance.
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This is a new initiative I’d like to try for the creative corner. We’ve seen great success with poetry submissions, and I love receiving people’s artistic forms of self-expression from across the community. Therefore, I’d like to open another submission opportunity. Book Club is essentially your opportunity to talk about a book you love. Whether it’s a timeless classic, a sci-masterpiece, a contemporary chart topper or a local star – the book club gives you license to submit a short review about a book you’ve been reading and can’t stop talking about. How to Submit: Send through the book’s title and author A short review or discussion of up to 250 words If you’re up for it – a photo of you with the book Email everything to sebastian@lifepublishinggroup.com Book Club submissions, once approved, will be included in the Creative Corner, space permitting.
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Reeflections Student Art Competition returns in 2026, now open to Year 9–12 students across the region. Hosted by Heart Hotel and Gallery Whitsundays. Focuses on artworks inspired by the Whitsundays, Great Barrier Reef, and natural environment. Accepts painting, drawing, and sculpture entries. Part of the region’s cultural calendar and linked to the Great Barrier Reef Festival. Aims to encourage youth creativity and environmental connection. Supports emerging artists with a professional exhibition opportunity.
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In the past in sugar towns such as Proserpine, there were many districts and in each of these there were one teacher schools. One of these schools was the Cannon Valley School (situated at what is now known as Cannonvale). It served the population of Lower Cannon Valley, the beach and Jubilee Pocket, before the days of regular transport and few cars. The school opened on April 25, 1910, with 18 pupils enrolled on the first day. In its early years, between 1910 and 1933, most of the teachers were female. One of these was Miss Lurline Argaet who was appointed in 1926. Her father assured her it would be a great experience and a complete change, especially being "on the coast." The trip to her new post was adventurous: she took trains to Townsville and Proserpine, stayed overnight at the Palace Hotel, and was then driven twenty miles by Mr Doug Debney, President of the school committee to the valley, where Mr and Mrs Stanley, owners of a cane farm, would board her. Picture this – It was January, the middle of the wet season. Roads were unsealed. Creeks and rivers were in flood. And then, along the way, there was a blow out in one of the tyres. Imagine Lurline’s reaction when Mr Debney dropped into the conversation the fact that the school was a further four miles on from the Stanleys but that there would be a horse for her to ride as most of the children either walked or rode to school. The warm welcome from the Stanleys and their children lessened her apprehension. She was made to feel at home and Mrs Stanley became very interested in Lurline’s welfare. The Stanley boys were always most helpful. Despite everything about farm life and animals being foreign to her, riding the horse wasn’t as daunting as Lurline had at first thought. Before long, she became quite adept at catching her horse, tempting him with a piece of bread and fitting his bridle and saddle. Joker, as he was called, was friendly, and although slow, he responded well when Lurline pressed her heels to nudge him forward or change direction. Water over Galbraith Creek was the only thing that frightened him. Joker was always well looked after and saddled by the boys for their teacher’s ride home. The school was a small, high set, one roomed building with a verandah on blocks, a rainwater tank, out back toilet and a fenced in horse paddock which had large trees. Lurline developed her own method of teaching and found the pupils very trusting. Grouped downstairs under the trees, some chanting tables, others their spelling, Lurline would be upstairs teaching new work. One afternoon lesson a week, the girls learned needlework and the boys maintained the garden. Being absent or late for school rarely occurred. Country schools were very important to families – they were the centre of social life. There was a hall, tennis court and cricket club in almost every district. Lurline was very much a part of the social life in the Cannon Valley district – attending dances at the hall and participating in euchre and crib evenings in the home.One one of these occasions, she met Eddie Dray and they married in 1928. Lurline’s dedication and qualifications were not enough to overcome the regulations of that era, which forced many talented women out of the profession simply because they married – and so, Lurline was required to resign in 1927 after two years of service. Lurline Dray (nee Argaet) died suddenly at her Airlie Beach home in 1977 aged 69 years. Story sourced from Proserpine Historical Museum archives. Photo used with permission. Captions First school building at Cannon Valley Arbor Day Lurline and Eddie Dray
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This week’s photo of the week winner is Natalie Stockdale for this unusual perspective of the Eiffel Tower, Paris, under the theme of ‘Angles’. This week’s theme is ‘Off the beaten track’. Join the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers group on Facebook to get involved. Photo contributed by the Whitsunday Amateur Photographers group on Facebook.
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Philip Henry Thornton Clay was a military hero and dedicated environmentalist, who spent the latter part of his life in Proserpine, performing sea rescues and preserving our natural environment. Philip’s commitment to the environment was very evident as early as age 15 when he helped to raise a petition which eventually pressured government to reject a development in a valued park. All this happened in Surrey and Essex, England, where he spent his childhood, but he retained this avid interest in conservation throughout his life, with he and his wife Joan acting as committed members of the Proserpine Branch of the Wildlife Preservation Society in their retirement. However, Philip will be mainly remembered for his courageous efforts as a pilot in the World War Two. As a young man he had joined the UK Merchant Navy and in 1941 moved into the Royal Air Force. It was in this capacity that he was recognised. He piloted a spitfire over Germany and Algiers until 1945 when he was shot down over Germany. Subsequently he escaped from a German POW hospital. He joined Occupation Forces in Norway. Proserpine Guardian 10/04/86 describes his courageous military career: … Phil was commissioned and awarded, on separate occasions, the British Empire Medal and the Distinguished Flying Cross. Still in the Air Force..he received the Queen’s commendation for Valuable Service for leading the RAF Vampire Aerobatic Team in display stunts over England. Later he was to win a Bar to his DFC for helicopter evacuation work in the Border War in South Yemen. Philip left the RAF in 1961 and flew helicopters in Canada for three years before emigrating to Australia with his wife and daughter, flying helicopters for Ansett. In 1970 he came to Proserpine to fly Sikorski Helicopters to Hayman and back until his retirement nine years later. In North Queensland Phil continued to live his life in service to others and, in 1972, was awarded the first Australian Queen’s Gallantry Medal for a helicopter rescue from rough North Queensland waves. MEDALS: D.F.C. and Bar Australian Gallantry Medal B.E.M. D.F.M. Commendation [Air] Contributed with thanks to the Proserpine Museum
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Troy Liesch is a Property Specialist with the Taylors Team, bringing many years of experience in the sale of rural and residential property across Central Queensland and the Whitsundays region. With a strong background in both lifestyle and acreage markets, Troy offers a grounded, practical approach to real estate, supported by extensive local knowledge and a deep understanding of what drives successful property outcomes in regional Queensland. His experience allows him to confidently guide clients through every stage of the selling process, from appraisal through to settlement. Now part of the Taylors Team, Troy continues to build on his reputation for professionalism, reliability, and commitment to achieving the best possible results for his clients. Outside of real estate, Troy is firmly rooted in the Whitsundays community, where he lives with his wife and their three children. Family life plays a central role for him, and he enjoys spending his time supporting his children’s sporting activities, attending dance events, and socialising with friends and neighbours throughout the region. For enquiries or property advice, Troy can be contacted on 0428 646 599 or via email at troy@tpsre.com.au.
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Friday 17th April Exhibitions Opening Night 6pm Residents are encouraged to come along and experience an evening of art and conversation as Mackay Regional Council and Artspace Mackay launch three new exhibitions on Friday, April 17. Officially opened by Mayor Greg Williamson, the free community event offers visitors the chance to be among the first to view the exhibitions Matters of Time: Contemporary Metal Practices, Joshua Searle: Poco a poco, se va lejos (Little by little, you go far) and Judy Watson: skeletons. Attendees can also meet visiting artists, curators, gallery staff and volunteers, making it a welcoming opportunity for art lovers and curious locals alike. Artspace Mackay Saturday 18th April Friday Pop up Jumbo Sale 9am (Friday and Saturday) Bargain hunters are invited to stop by a community jumbo sale this weekend, offering a wide range of items at affordable prices. Running from 9am to 4pm on Friday, April 17, and 9am to 3pm on Saturday, April 18, the sale will feature plenty of treasures including plants, jigsaw puzzles, books, clothing, toys, kitchenware and craft items, both new and pre-loved. Locals are encouraged to come along, browse the stalls and enjoy the thrill of discovering a great bargain while supporting a community event. Marian Town Centre Book Of The Month 10am Art lovers are invited to take a closer look at Artspace Mackay’s Book of the Month for April during a special free viewing on Saturday, April 18 at 10am. Held in the Foyer Gallery at Artspace Mackay in the Civic Precinct, the popular program allows visitors to explore a featured artist’s book up close, page by page, with the guidance of knowledgeable Artspace volunteers. The monthly event offers a unique opportunity to experience artist books in an interactive way. Attendance is free, but registration is encouraged via the Artspace Mackay website. Artspace Mackay Sunday 19th April Slade Point Community Markets 8am The Slade Point Community Markets invite residents to enjoy a relaxed morning of nature, creativity and local connection at the Slade Point Community Gardens. Held on the third Sunday of each month from 8am to 11am, the markets feature local stallholders offering handmade goods, fresh produce and treats, alongside food vans, fresh coffee and live music. Visitors can also join a gentle morning yoga or stretch session, while children enjoy family-friendly activities. Community members are encouraged to bring friends, family and picnic blankets and spend the morning supporting local businesses. Dogs are welcome on leads, with owners asked to clean up after their pets. Slade Point Community Gardens Tuesday 21st April Community Coffee Shout – With Shirlz Area Specialist 9am Residents are invited to enjoy a free coffee and friendly catch-up at a community coffee shout hosted by local real estate specialist Shirlz Russell. From 9am on Tuesday, April 21, the first 50 coffees will be covered at The Avenue Cafe, giving locals a chance to connect and start the morning together. With no conditions attached, the simple gesture is Shirlz’s way of thanking the North Mackay community. Locals are encouraged to drop by, grab a coffee and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere while the coffees last. Avenue Cafe Mackay 1- Artspace Mackay holding Book Of The Month on April 19th. Photo supplied 2 –Joshua Searle’s exhibition Poco a Poco launches on April 17th. Photo supplied 3- Slade point community market will take place on April 19th. Photo source: Facebook 4- Shirlz Russell will be shouting the first 50 coffees at The Avenue Café on April 21st. Photo source: Facebook
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Teams from the Mackay Monarchs have returned from the Senior State Age Netball Championships in Townsville after four days of strong competition and warm conditions. Mackay Netball Association congratulated players for their efforts on court, noting the teams played impressive netball and created lasting memories during the tournament. Final placings for SSA 2026 were: • 15 Maroon – Championship Division – 18th • 15 Blue – Division 3 – 5th • 16 Maroon – Division 3 – 7th • 18 Maroon – Division 3 – 4th Designer – please place pic of girls playing netball near this story** Sponsors Back Monarchs Campaign Mackay Netball Association has thanked the sponsors who supported the Mackay Monarchs during their 2026 Senior State Age Netball Championships campaign. Local businesses played an important role in helping the teams travel and compete, with support provided by: Fitness Cartel Mackay Pool Professionals Mackay Diggers Landscape Supplies FMS Group Focus on Flooring Xtra - Mackay Mackay Turf Club Ablecut Concrete Cutting & Coring Mackay Aury Australia Mayzier Transport Devcon Photo source: Mackay Netball Association – MNA
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The highly anticipated 2026 North Queensland Games are now just around the corner and are set to energise the region over the May Day long weekend. Celebrating its 42nd year, the event will be hosting 40+ sports, predominantly in Mackay, but also the Whitsundays and Isaac regions. Athletes of all ages are welcome to attend. The North Queensland Sports Foundation has developed these games around mass participation and inclusivity. Athletes of all ages and abilities are encouraged to take part and build confidence and community connection. Organisers also anticipate economic benefits to be brought by the event, after previous North Queensland Games saw thousands of athletes and visitors flock to the region to participate and show their support. A primary goal of the games this year is to sow seeds amongst young athletes ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, giving belief that their Olympic journey can start right here in Mackay. Natalie Cook will be joining the 2026 North Queensland Games as an ambassador, having competed in the North Queensland Games early in her sporting journey before going on to win an Olympic gold medal in volleyball. Her story shows what is possible when opportunity meets hard work and community support. Mackay’s own, former boxing world champion Liam Paro, will also be returning as an ambassador. “The North Queensland Games were a big part of my journey when I was younger, so it’s pretty special to now come back and be part of it as an ambassador,” Liam Paro Said. “I’m proud to be from Mackay and even prouder to be leading the torch in 2026. Regional clubs are where it all starts, and I’m passionate about shining a light on the talent we have here. If I can inspire even one young athlete to dream bigger and take that step onto the world stage, then that’s what it’s all about.” The 2026 North Queensland Games will officially kick off with an Opening Ceremony on Friday 1 May at Harrup Park, Mackay, which the organisation claims will “bring the community together for a vibrant celebration of sport, culture and regional pride.” “The free, family-friendly event will feature a dynamic program of entertainment and experiences, including community stalls, food trucks, amusements and interactive activities for all ages,” they shared. “A highlight of the evening will be the traditional March of Athletes, where clubs and competitors from across North Queensland will come together in a powerful display of unity and regional spirit. “The ceremony will also include the official lighting of the Games torch, marking the beginning of the 2026 Games, followed by a spectacular fireworks display and some live entertainment to close out the night.” What? The NQ Games Opening Ceremony When? Friday 1st May, 5pm Doors Open Where? Harrup Park, Mackay Captions The NQ Games will bring together athletes of all ages across 40+ sports. Photo source: Facebook Liam Paro receiving the Pride of the Region award from Mayor Greg Williamson at the Media Launch of the 2026 games. Photo supplied
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Students at Mackay State High School recently took part in a practical learning session as Year 8 AEA students began preparing for upcoming reef-based STEM projects. Held at the school’s memorial pool, the session introduced students to essential snorkelling skills, helping build confidence and capability ahead of their fieldwork on the reef, where they will collect real-world data. The activity encouraged teamwork, enthusiasm and a willingness to step outside comfort zones while developing skills that connect directly to classroom learning. Photo source: Mackay State High School
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Monday 6 April 2026 – 9 Table Mitchell Green Points Tuesday Evening 7 April 2026 – 6 Table Mitchell Green Points Wednesday 8 April 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points Thursday Evening 9 April 2026 – 5 Table One Winner – Green Points Friday 10 April 2026 – 8 Table Mitchell Green Points Saturday 11 April 2026 –Section A - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points Saturday 11 April 2026 – Section B - 7 Table Mitchell Green Points Contributed with thanks to Joy Block Photo supplied
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Participants from Mackay Parkrun celebrated several milestone achievements late last month, recognising both volunteers and runners for their dedication. Len Howarth marked an impressive 50 volunteer milestone, while Trent Rankin, Olivia Broadley and Jacob Attiwill each celebrated their 50th finish milestones. Mackay parkrun is a free, timed 5km run or walk held at 7am every Saturday morning, organised by the community, for the community. Photo source: Mackay Parkrun
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The Club Championship Mixed Pairs Final was played on Saturday, April 11 at North Mackay Bowls Club. Players in the final were Daphne Offield and Dave McKendry, who faced Donna Gordon and Chris Banney. It was another great final for the club, featuring some special shots, several congested heads around the jack, and precision bowling that made it a superb match. Daphne and Dave were the eventual winners and were thrilled with the result, while Donna and Chris were valiant in defeat. Congratulations to everyone who competed in this great event, and of course to the very happy winners. Contributed with thank to Sue Hazledine (L) Chris Banney, Donna Gordon, Dave McKendry and Daphne Offield. Photo credit: Donna Gordon
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The sun shone bright over the greens as the Mackay Ladies Bowling Club celebrated its 33rd birthday. President Marie welcomed 52 members and district bowlers to the club. The atmosphere was bursting with laughter, color, and a touch of friendly competition. Newer members joined in the fun, eager to make their own memories. The friendly birthday tournament saw playful rivalries reignited, with cheers and good-natured teasing echoing across the rinks. After the game bowlers enjoyed the lunch provided by the Mackay club ladies As the cake was cut by President Marie and MDLBA President Lorraine The guests joined in singing “Happy Birthday.” The Mackay Ladies Bowling Club’s 33rd birthday was a tribute to the spirit of camaraderie, community, and love for the game that keeps the club’s heart beating strong. During the festivities the MACKAY Bowling Club Board committee presented a $7000 cheque to the St Helens bowling Club to help them with their flood repairs. The money was raised by having bowls, raffles and a few large donations from members and patrons of the club. Many thanks to all. Contributed with thanks to Robyn Schatkowski President Lorraine and President Marie cutting cake M Mayfield J Jorgensen(Makay Club) Rose Condon and Helen Strachan (st Helen’s Club) Photos supplied
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Over thirty members of the Mackay Road Runners and their families enjoyed a perfect Sunday afternoon with a social 5km and 10km run/walk starting from the Magpies Sporting Complex carpark precincts. Despite the humidity and slightly higher temperatures, runners found the well-marked, slightly undulating course through the Gooseponds and beyond a challenging change of pace following the club’s 50th anniversary celebrations the previous night. The club now looks ahead to the annual Construct Health Physiotherapy 3km Club Championship next Sunday morning, starting at 7am from Queen’s Park at the Shakespeare Street carpark entrance. Thank you to Construct Health Physiotherapy for your continued support, which is greatly appreciated. Both members and non-members are welcome to take part; however, to accrue Club Championship points, participants must be a club member. Contributed with thanks to Janelle Tilse 5846 – The Knezevic family enjoy a social stroll/cycle at the Mackay Road Runners Magpies 5km/10k social run. 5889 – Andrew Wallace, Stephen Oberg and Carmel Mahon relax after their 10km Magpies social run efforts. 5838 – Emily with son Ollie (left) enjoy the Mackay Road Runners Magpies 5km social run. 5893 – The Sant family enjoy a run/walk with their twin girls. 5904 – Jo Skinner and Craig McGahey with their grandies. 5892 – Jose Short (right) with daughter Phoebe (left) and Bruno (centre). 5863 – Ashley Miles (right) running whilst his daughter rides alongside. 5834 – Runner, Bianca Miles (left) is well supported by her cyclist daughter. 5845 – Carolyn Mapes with her ‘baby’ Sonny. Photos supplied
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Students at Whitsunday Anglican School took to the course for the annual Junior School Cross Country, with runners embracing both the challenge and fun of the day in a lively atmosphere of encouragement and school spirit. Year 12 students supported the event by running alongside and cheering on younger competitors, while staff, facilities crews and families helped create a strong sense of community from the sidelines. Photo source: Whitsunday Anglican School
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Dan has been involved in the property industry all his working life. His early years were spent in the Lands Department (now the Department of Natural Resources) carrying out rental assessment valuations for Crown Land in various centres of Queensland including Rockhampton, Hughenden, Emerald, Longreach, Winton, Cloncurry and Mackay. During that time, he became a Registered Rural and Urban Valuer and was promoted to the position of Assistant Land Commissioner prior to his resignation from the Government Department. In 1984, Dan took over the management of the Valuation Department of Blacks Real Estate before setting up his own private valuation business in 2003, which operated successfully until mid 2013. Dan and wife Kerry have lived in Mackay for over thirty years and have a son Dylan and daughter Kara. Outside of work, Dan has an interest in most sports, particularly Rugby. He is a Life Member of Brothers Rugby Club and spent twelve years coaching the senior boys rugby team at North Mackay State High, winning several premierships. With a wealth of experience in the property market, Dan returned to Blacks Real Estate as a Sales Consultant in August 2013.
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Cadence Rooney, Belinda Rooney, Andrew Rooney and Abigail Rooney Ella Barr, Elle Jung and Kaylah Dowson Brock, Aliara, Tayla, Jesse, Anna-Lisa and Nigel Veleisha, Valerie and Brianna Paul Te Tau and Bryony Te Tau Simon Justin, Natalie, Paul and Chrissy Brittany, Mikayla and Louella Leftover images with no caption – Last Friday’s Barrier Reef Night Markets brought great energy to the Mackay City Heart, with locals enjoying a vibrant evening of handmade, unique stalls while supporting community causes. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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Nestled in the lush foothills of the Pioneer Valley, Finch Falls Retreat spans 13 acres of open space and native rainforest, offering a tranquil escape where families can reconnect with nature at their own pace. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, the retreat is a sanctuary for walking, riding, or simply unwinding amidst the serene environment. Throughout the grounds, inviting seating areas provide the perfect spot to pause, relax, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. The retreat’s two-bedroom Eco Lodges are thoughtfully designed with families in mind, comfortably accommodating two adults and up to four children. Each lodge features a fully equipped kitchenette and private ensuite, ensuring every stay is convenient and relaxing. Strategically spaced throughout the retreat, each lodge includes its own private deck and undercover BBQ area, which is ideal for enjoying a morning coffee or a family dinner immersed in nature. Beyond luxury accommodation, Finch Falls Retreat is also a haven for native wildlife. The grounds have undergone a large-scale restoration, with hundreds of native trees and plants introduced to rejuvenate the landscape. As guests wander through the retreat, they may spot an abundance of local wildlife in their natural habitat, making nature an integral part of every stay rather than just a backdrop. Young explorers are well catered for, with play equipment thoughtfully placed throughout the retreat. Children can enjoy a mud kitchen, cubby house, and playground, while the gently flowing creek offers a safe, shallow space for splashing and exploration most of the year. For those seeking further adventures, Finch Hatton township is just minutes away, offering a playground, pump track, and access to larger natural swimming holes – so why not make it a memorable family day out! Dining at Finch Falls Retreat is effortless and flexible. Each lodge’s kitchenette includes an induction cooktop, microwave, fridge, and Nespresso coffee machine, making it simple to prepare a relaxed breakfast, picnic-style lunch, or cosy dinner while surrounded by nature. Finch Falls Retreat is ideally located at 564 Gorge Road, Finch Hatton, Queensland, just 8 kilometres from the town centre and 3 kilometres from the picturesque Finch Hatton Gorge. Accessible via sealed roads, the drive to the retreat takes guests through scenic farmland, rainforest, and mountain landscapes, setting the tone for a restorative stay in the heart of the Pioneer Valley. Every element of Finch Falls Retreat, from the private Eco Lodges to the carefully restored grounds, wildlife habitats, and family-friendly amenities, has been designed to provide a whole-family experience. Here, luxury and nature coexist, creating a serene and immersive escape where families can explore, unwind, and make lasting memories together. finchfallsretreat.com.au
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The Whitsundays Writers Festival has been scheduled for Sunday 13 September 2026 with a one-day celebration of local authors, regional stories, and the readers who bring them to life. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Whitsunday Marine Club, Airlie Beach, the festival promises an engaging, thought-provoking, and community-focused experience for all ages; well worth travelling for. Festival-goers can look forward to two intimate panel discussions, exploring the journey from inspiration to publication, and the creative sparks that drive storytelling. Hear from talented local authors as they share insights, experiences, and advice for aspiring writers. The day will also feature author readings, the presentation of the Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, and Stories by the Sea — a lively book buy-and-swap event celebrating local voices and community participation. Stay tuned for full program details and ticket releases, and don’t miss your chance to be part of the region’s premier literary celebration. Calling Local Authors – Expression of Interest Now Open! Are you a published author living in the Mackay region? We’d love to hear from you! For the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival, we’re inviting local authors to express interest in joining two engaging panel conversations. Local authors can also confirm a dedicated space to sell books directly to festival attendees. EOI deadline: 11:59pm, Saturday 28 February 2026 Complete the online form: 2026 Expression of Interest – Whitsundays Writers Start writing! 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards We’re excited to announce the 2026 Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, celebrating the next generation of Australian storytelling. This year’s awards include: Best Short Story – Adult & Under 18 divisions First prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500 Up to 3,000 words of unpublished creative fiction Poetry Prize First prize: $1,000 | Runner-up: $500 Up to 50 lines of unpublished poetry Judged on originality, creativity, and expressiveness Entries open 16 March to 30 June 2026 with a $20 entry fee. These awards are a vital investment in Australian literary culture, giving local and national writers the chance to have their work recognised and celebrated. Don’t miss the opportunity to join a community that champions creativity, imagination, and the power of storytelling. Contributed with thanks to Whitsundays Writers Festival. What: Whitsundays Writers Festival When: Sunday 13th September 2026, 10:30am-4:30pm Where: Whitsunday Marine Club, 7 Altmann Ave, Airlie Beach 1- The festival is calling for writers across the region to get in touch. Photo supplied
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Meet Bella. Bella is an 8-year-old Cattle Dog Cross with the biggest heart of gold. This sweet girl has so much love to give and is looking for a home where she can truly shine. Bella adores cuddles and will happily curl up beside you for hours—she’s the perfect companion for quiet nights and cozy mornings. One of her cutest quirks? She loves to hide her treats instead of eating them right away—saving them like little treasures for later. Bella is recently desexed, and fully vaccinated. She’s full of love and affection and ready to find her forever home. Bella would thrive best in a home where she can be the center of attention. Bella prefers not to share her humans with other dogs, so she’s ideally suited to an older couple or a family without other pets. She just wants all the love for herself—and she’ll give it back tenfold. If you're looking for a loyal, affectionate companion who will adore you endlessly, Bella might just be your perfect match. Message Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue on Facebook to arrange a meet and greet. 1- Bella is looking for her person – is it you? Photo source: Lucy’s Lucky Tags and Dog Rescue
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Seven students from Sarina State High School have been recognised for their musical talent after representing their school at the State Honours Ensemble Program in Rockhampton over the weekend. Dallas Kuhl, Sarah Bradford, Lily Kuhl, Isabella Bradford, Ebony Hetherington, Lauren McFadzen and Millie Thomsett were selected to take part in the prestigious program alongside some of Central Queensland’s best middle school–aged instrumental music students. The three-day program brought together talented young musicians from across the region for an intensive schedule of rehearsals and workshops. Over the course of the program, students completed 15 hours of practice under the guidance of some of Queensland’s leading conductors. The experience culminated in a final concert, showcasing the students’ dedication and musical development following the intensive rehearsal period. The opportunity provided the Sarina students with valuable experience performing in a large ensemble while collaborating with other young musicians from across Central Queensland. Photo source: Sarina State High School
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After a strong turnout for the first event of the year last weekend, Art in the Park is set to return next month, bringing another day of creativity and community to Sarina. Hosted by the Sarina Arts Council and Sarina Gallery, the outdoor event will once again take place under the trees at the Field of Dreams from 9am to 2pm. The event invites locals and visitors alike to browse a range of locally created artworks, meet the makers behind the pieces and enjoy live music in a relaxed park setting. Organisers said the first Art in the Park for 2026 last Sunday attracted a fantastic turnout, with many people stopping by to chat with artists, support local makers and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Those who missed the first event will have another opportunity to attend when Art in the Park returns on Sunday, May 3, promising another colourful day celebrating local creativity and community connection. Photo source: Sarina Arts Council, Sarina Gallery
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Residents of Walkerston and the surrounding Pleystowe district are being invited to come together once again for a moving 2026 ANZAC Day Dawn Service at ANZAC Park Walkerston, an early-morning commemoration honouring service and sacrifice. The service will begin at 4.50am with veterans forming up at the Luscombe Memorial Tree, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at 4.55am. A march through ANZAC Park will follow at 5.00am, led by the Parade Commander, before the Dawn Service formally assembles at 5.10am. The program will include the flag at half-mast, the mounting of the guard, and a welcome address from Walkerston-Pleystowe RSL Sub-Branch President Rod Francisco. The Dawn Service is expected to conclude at approximately 5.30am, after which attendees are invited to join veterans for breakfast at the Duke of Edinburgh Hotel. Organisers are encouraging the community to attend and take part in the early-morning service, as Walkerston-Pleystowe comes together in reflection, remembrance and gratitude for those who have served. Honouring Sacrifice And Finding A Service Near You Attending a Dawn Service remains one of the most meaningful ways the community can honour those who served and sacrificed. Rising early in the quiet hours of the morning is seen as a small but powerful gesture of respect, reflecting the time of day when many soldiers prepared for battle and remembering the courage, loss and resilience of the men and women who served the nation. Across the Mackay region, communities will come together at dawn and throughout the day on April 25 to commemorate ANZAC Day, with services scheduled across locations including Mackay, Sarina, Walkerston, Seaforth, Mirani, Marian, Eton, Calen and Finch Hatton, as well as other towns across the district. The Isaac region will also hold services, with further details to come. Mackay Life will publish a comprehensive guide to local ANZAC Day services in next week’s edition.
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