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Health, housing, road safety, policing and community infrastructure are among the key areas of investment for Mackay and surrounding communities in the 2026-27 Queensland State Budget, with major items spanning hospital expansion, housing support, road upgrades, sporting facilities and frontline services. Member for Mackay, Nigel Dalton said the budget was about strengthening the foundations of a fresh start and delivering on the commitments we made to Queenslanders. “For Mackay, it means cost-of-living relief, investment in healthcare, support for housing, safer communities and continued investment in the infrastructure our region needs to grow,” he said. “The more than $30 million invested in community and social housing will help provide more housing options for people who need them most. The $8.8 million for the Mackay Community Health Centre will strengthen local healthcare services, while the cost-of-living measures will put money back into the pockets of local families.” “I'm also particularly pleased to see funding for the new female changeroom facilities at the Mackay District Junior Rugby League playing fields. This is a project the community has advocated for, and it will support the growing participation of women and girls in sport for years to come.” Key Mackay and Mackay-Whitsundays measures include: Mackay Base Hospital expansion – the hospital will be expanded with at least 128 new overnight beds as part of the Hospital Rescue Plan. Frontline housing and homelessness services – housing and homelessness services will continue to be delivered in Mackay Whitsundays to assist vulnerable Queenslanders to secure longer-term housing and access specialist support, including temporary accommodation, outreach and connections to broader community services. Social and community housing – the budget includes the expansion and improvement of social and community housing across the Mackay Whitsundays region, with 121 homes in construction or under contract. Residential Activation Fund projects – essential infrastructure and utility connections will be delivered to support residential development in Marian, Beaconsfield, Rural View and Mirani, as well as Bowen South, Cannonvale and Proserpine. Police facility upgrades – the Mackay police facility will be upgraded to support frontline policing services and enhance community safety, while the replacement of the police facility in Proserpine will also progress. Mackay Courthouse improvements – the Mackay Courthouse will be upgraded to provide better safety and support to victims of domestic and family violence. Road infrastructure – the Mackay-Bucasia Road and Golf Links Road intersection will be upgraded to improve safety and reduce congestion. Sport and community infrastructure – Stage 2 of the Great Barrier Reef Arena upgrade at Harrup Park will be funded to deliver community sport, education and a training facility under the Games On! Grassroots Infrastructure Program. Local sporting facility improvements – funding will go towards local club facility improvements for the Mackay Netball Association and North Mackay Saints AFL Club, while new female changerooms will be delivered at the Rugby League Mackay & District playing fields in partnership with Mackay Regional Council. Education and community facilities – Mackay State High School will receive refurbishment and air-conditioning in the hall, while Woodlands District Park will receive an adult change facility, playground and car park as part of the Works for Queensland Program. The budget also includes broader state-wide measures that may affect local residents, with the full budget available to view at budget.qld.gov.au
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High school students across Dawson are being given the opportunity to step into the shoes of a federal member of parliament and bring the issues of their electorate to the floor of Parliament House. The Speaker of the House of Representatives, the Hon Milton Dick MP, and Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP are calling for entries in the 2026 My First Speech Competition for senior students in Years 10, 11 and 12. The national initiative invites students to imagine themselves as newly elected Members of Parliament and record a three-minute speech on an issue they are passionate about. Speaker Milton Dick said promoting parliamentary education to students across the country remained a priority. “This is yet another exciting way that young people can take an active role in our democratic system,” Mr Dick said. “This competition will provide high school students with the chance to learn more about the way our nation’s democracy works, and how actively engaging with the parliamentary process can draw attention to the issues that are most important to them.” Mr Willcox said the competition provided a platform for the region’s next generation of leaders. “We have some incredibly bright, passionate young people across Dawson, from our high schools in Mackay and the Whitsundays right up to Burdekin and Townsville,” Mr Willcox said. “This competition is a fantastic platform for our local students to find their voice, stand up, and put our region on the national stage.” One winner from each year level will receive an expenses-paid trip to Parliament House in Canberra, including flights, accommodation and a $250 prize pack. Winners will also present their speeches to the Speaker and Members of Parliament. Mr Willcox said he wanted local entries to reflect the distinct economic and social realities of Dawson. “I want our local students to think about what matters most to them, whether that is regional cost of living, local manufacturing, or the future of our agricultural industries, and bring that regional perspective straight to Canberra.” Entries close at 11.59pm AEST on Monday, July 20, 2026. “Our young people are the future leaders, and their opinions deserve to be heard in the halls of Parliament House,” Mr Willcox said. “I strongly encourage every eligible student in Dawson to get involved, draft their speech, and take hold of this rare opportunity to show the rest of Australia what our region is made of.” For guidelines and entry information, visit the official competition website. Caption: Federal Member for Dawson, Andrew Willcox MP, encourages senior high school students across the region to enter the 2026 My First Speech Competition, to bring their unique voice to Canberra. Photo supplied
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By Cr Heath Paton Mackay will burst into life this July as the 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts returns with a packed program of performances, exhibitions and familyfriendly events right across our region. Now in its 39th year, the festival runs throughout July and continues to be one of the highlights on Mackay’s calendar. This year, I’m exciting to see a full program that not only introduces fresh new experiences but also welcomes back popular favourites – many of them refreshed or in new locations to make them even better for festivalgoers. One of the standout events, the everpopular Wisely Wine and Food Day will this year be headlined by ARIA Awardwinning Australian artist Budjerah. It’s shaping up to be a fantastic day out, combining great local food and drinks with live music and a relaxed festival atmosphere. Daly Bay Illuminate also returns for four nights and will take centre stage in Mackay’s City Centre. Spectacular largescale light projections will transform some of our most recognisable building facades, alongside the muchloved outdoor theatre procession Whale Song, featuring enormous, illuminated whale puppets that celebrate our annual humpback whale migration. If you’re a business owner in the City Centre, now is the time to start planning how you can make the most of the extra foot traffic. Why not put up some shop front lighting, offer some special deals or extend your trading hours? Running alongside Daly Bay Illuminate will be the Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub at Bluewater Quay, bringing together local musicians, food vendors and community artwork created especially for the festival. The festival kicks off during the school holidays, with plenty for families to enjoy. Highlights include Living Sculptures: How the Birds Got Their Colours at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens and the immersive Sea of Light experience at the MECC. This year the program truly offers something for everyone, from theatre and comedy to music, exhibitions, workshops and community celebrations and it's fast becoming one of my favourite events on our calendar. The full 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts program is available online, with printed copies available from the MECC Box Office and locations across Mackay. Let’s Chat – Council Connect Residents can catch up with councillors in person at upcoming Let’s Chat - Council Connect sessions held across the region. The next session will be held at Koumala Community Hall on July 7 at 5pm.
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The Mackay community was urged to dig deep and donate for Mater Giving Day yesterday, Thursday 25th June, helping to drive new and improved healthcare services for people living in Queensland’s sugar cane capital. Last year’s Giving Day donations helped Mater to acquire seven emergency resuscitation trolleys for Mackay – housed on each ward of the hospital, allowing streamlined responses to deteriorating patients. Mater Mackay Nurse Unit Manager Elly Engstrom, who advocated for the purchase of the equipment, said the $70,000 emergency resuscitation trolleys improved access to all resources and equipment required in emergency resuscitation and life support situations. “Emergency trolleys are primarily designed to ensure clinicians have immediate access to all essential medical supplies and medication required in emergency scenarios, and while this equipment was already in place across our hospital, the previous trolleys had limited manoeuvrability and took up much more space in our wards,” Ms Engstrom said. “Thanks to the generosity of our community, these new trolleys are streamlined, incredibly mobile, and have all equipment and medication set out in a way that makes it easy to access quickly when required. “Each ward of Mater Private Hospital Mackay features one of these new trolleys to ensure that no matter where our teams are, they have everything they need close by.” Mater Private Hospital Mackay General Manager Karen Wade said the trolleys were just some of the more than $500,000 in new equipment funded locally by Mater Foundation in the past 12 months. “Investing in new equipment such as these emergency trolleys is just another example of the tremendous support we’re able to receive from our community through events like Giving Day,” Ms Wade said. “We encouraged Mackay locals who themselves may have been cared for at Mater, or if their family or friends have been cared for at Mater, to consider supporting this important cause. “If you happened to be at Mater Private Hospital Mackay on Giving Day, it was also a chance to show your gratitude to our incredible staff, who are dedicated to providing world-class healthcare to the people of our region.” Mater Foundation Chief Executive Andrew Thomas said all donations would be tripled on Giving Day, thanks to the generosity of matching partners. “On Mater Giving Day, your donation is tripled, which means triple the funding we can put towards care, equipment and research at our facilities like Mater Private Hospital Mackay,” he said. “We’re hoping to raise $2 million this Giving Day, and we can’t do it without your support.” Support Mater Giving Day at www.mater.org.au/givingday. Rupesh Nair (left), Mater Mackay St Luke’s Close Care Observation Unit Nurse Unit Manager and Elly Engstrom (right), Mater Mackay St Paul’s Surgical Ward Nurse Unit Manager. Photo supplied
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GLP-1 peptide medications have quickly become one of the biggest talking points in health and weight loss, with many people now wondering whether they could also be the answer to obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). While the research is promising, it’s important to separate the hype from the reality. Recent clinical studies have shown that GLP-1 medications can help reduce the severity of sleep apnoea in some patients, particularly those with a BMI of 30 or greater. The reason is simple: weight loss can reduce pressure around the airway, which may lower the number of breathing interruptions experienced during sleep. But here’s the key point many people are missing: GLP-1 medications are not a cure for sleep apnoea. One year-long clinical trial found that the first 10% of body weight lost resulted in roughly a 20% reduction in sleep apnoea severity. While that sounds significant, the improvement often plateaued beyond that point. For example, someone with an AHI (Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index) of 25, classified as moderate OSA, may see that number reduce to just under 20 after losing 10% of their body weight. While improved, that person would still clinically have moderate sleep apnoea. This highlights an important truth about OSA: sleep apnoea is not caused by weight alone. Airway anatomy, genetics, muscle tone, age, sleeping position, and other health factors all play a role. In fact, many people with sleep apnoea are not overweight at all. At CPAP Direct, we see daily how effective ongoing therapy and proper diagnosis are in improving sleep and overall health outcomes. GLP-1 medications may play a supporting role for some patients, but they should be viewed as part of a broader management strategy, not a silver bullet. For support on your journey toward healthier sleep, visit us in-store or at cpap.com.au.
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Colour, movement and ancient storytelling will collide under the open sky when the 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts begins on July 4th with an Indigenous-led contemporary circus spectacular. Living Sculptures: How the Birds Got Their Colours is created by ARC Circus Co in collaboration with Luther Cora and Yugambeh Aboriginal Dancers. Mayor Greg Williamson said the first fortnight of the 2026 Mackay Festival of Arts aligns with the school holidays, providing a wide range of events for the whole family to enjoy. “How the Birds Got Their Colours is a fantastic family-friendly show that will be held in our beautiful Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens,” Mayor Williamson said. “The show celebrates diversity, identity and shared humanity through song, dance and spectacular acrobatics,” he said. Also featured in the Mackay Festival of Arts’ opening weeks is the immersive family experience, Sea of Light. “This beautiful show allows kids and adults alike to use a UV torch as a paintbrush and paint or stencil a voyage that will leave glowing paths of light in their wake,” Mayor Williamson said. “Sea of Light artworks have been created by Aboriginal contemporary visual artist Elizabeth Close and are painted in light across the sea floor, reflecting the connection between land, sea, earth and water,” he said. Sea of Light will be on Wednesday 8th July to Saturday 11th July, at the MECC Plenary Halls. Another great show, just for the adults, will be the hilarious comedy showcase Late Nite PowerPoint. Following sell-out seasons at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Melbourne International Comedy Festival and Adelaide Fringe, this show features five comedians performing five different PowerPoints in a show that’s begging for technical difficulties. The Showcase will be on at Farview Tavern on Friday 10th July and at Club Northern Beaches on Saturday 11th July. ***DESIGNER NOTE – BREAKOUT BOX/HIGHLIGHT THE FOLLOWING: *** Mackay Festival of Arts will also provide the following activities: On July 1st DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season Fractured Fairy Tales, where classic stories have been tipped upside down and are all in a muddle at the MECC Auditorium. On July 4th Malta’s culinary heritage will take the spotlight in Malta on a Plate at the Vintage Farmhouse Kitchen, Marian. On July 6th Cirque Nouvelle will thrill the whole family with acrobatics, juggling, aerials, balancing and jaw-dropping feats at the MECC Auditorium. On July 10th the NAIDOC Street Parade and Family Fun Day will again celebrate culture, community and connection at Queens Park. On July 11th all the flare of the Mackay Scottish Bluewater Fling will return to the Bluewater Quay. Plus, so much more. The second half of the festival will also be jam-packed with amazing events, including crowd favourites Wisely Wine and Food Day, Daly Bay Illuminate, Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub and the Friends of the MECC Jazz Brunch. For more information on the full festival program, visit ourmackay.com.au/festivals Living Sculptures: How the Birds Got Their Colours is a beautiful open-air performance combining traditional First Nations dance and storytelling with contemporary circus acrobatics. Photo supplied
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A $150,000 donation to Mackay Base Hospital will enhance patient safety and expand access to advanced medical imaging services through the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment. The Medical Imaging Department has upgraded to the Expression MR400 MRI Patient Monitoring System, a specialised device valued at $189,000 that enables clinicians to continuously monitor a patient’s vital signs during MRI scans. The purchase was made possible through a $151,000 donation from Flagon and Dragon Mackay, with the remaining $40,000 contributed by My Hospital Foundation. Mackay Hospital and Health Service (HHS) Chief Executive Sean Birgan said the new monitoring system represented a significant advancement for medical imaging services and would support safer care for some of the hospital's most vulnerable patients. Unlike previous conventional monitoring equipment, the MR400 has been specifically designed for use in the MRI environment. The new equipment further strengthened Mackay Base Hospital's ability to deliver high-level healthcare services across the region and supports improved access to specialist imaging for rural and remote patients. The system will enhance multidisciplinary collaboration between radiology, anaesthetics, intensive care and other clinical teams, helping ensure complex patients can be safely managed closer to home. A $150,000 donation has enabled Mackay Base Hospital to upgrade its MRI monitoring technology, improving patient safety and expanding access to advanced imaging services. Photo source: Mackay Hospital and Health Service
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Catherine McAuley College Mackay marked a significant milestone in its development earlier this week with the Blessing and Official Opening of its Stage 3 facilities on Tuesday, 23rd June. The event represented another important step forward for the region’s newest Catholic secondary college, reflecting both its rapid growth and commitment to providing high-quality learning environments for students. The ceremony was led by the Most Reverend Daniel Meagher, Bishop of the Diocese of Rockhampton, who blessed the new facilities, alongside Diocesan Director of Catholic Education, Mr Michael McCusker, who officially opened the buildings. Their presence underscored the importance of the occasion for both the College and the wider Catholic education community across the Mackay Region. Proceedings began with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony conducted by Mr Philip Kemp and Mrs Veronica Ah-wang, acknowledging the continuing cultural and spiritual connection of First Nations peoples to the region. College Principal Mr Jim Ford delivered an Address of Thanks, recognising the collective effort behind Stage 3. The development was made possible through support from the Queensland State Government, alongside the expertise of Bold Architecture and Interior Design and Fergus Builders. The completion of Stage 3 signalled the College’s ongoing commitment to nurturing student growth, fostering innovation in teaching and learning, and ensuring facilities keep pace with the needs of a growing school community. Students, staff, families and community members gathered for the celebration, giving thanks for how far the College has come in a relatively short time. Bishop Daniel Meagher joined Catherine McAuley College earlier this week to bless and officially open the school’s new Stage 3 facilities, marking another milestone in its continued growth. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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2026-27 State Budget Delivers For Mackay Over the past year, I've spent a lot of time out in our community – talking with families, sporting clubs, business owners, healthcare workers, volunteers and local organisations about what matters most to them. Again and again, people have told me they want practical action. They want cost-of-living relief. They want better healthcare. They want safer communities. They want housing solutions. And they want to see Mackay continue to grow and prosper. That's why I'm pleased to see the 2026-27 Queensland Budget delivering real outcomes for our region. At a time when many households are still feeling pressure on the family budget, this Budget provides relief you can rely on. Permanent 50 cent fares are locked in, the Back to School Boost has increased to $150 per child, Play On! sports vouchers continue, and regional Queensland families supplied by Ergon will benefit from lower electricity prices. These measures might seem simple, but they make a real difference to family budgets right here in Mackay. Just as importantly, this Budget delivers significant investment into our local community. More than $30 million has been committed towards community and social housing projects across our region. Having a safe place to call home is something every Queenslander deserves, and this investment will help support vulnerable residents while providing more housing options for our growing community. Healthcare is another area where I've heard strong feedback from local residents. That's why I'm pleased to see $8.8 million committed to upgrades at the Mackay Community Health Centre. This investment will help improve access to healthcare services and ensure local families can continue receiving the support they need close to home. I've also been advocating strongly for better sporting infrastructure, particularly facilities that support the growing participation of women and girls in sport. One project I'm especially proud to see funded is the new female changeroom facilities at the Mackay District Junior Rugby League playing fields. This $1 million project, jointly funded by the Queensland Government and Mackay Regional Council, is something the local community has been calling for. It will provide modern facilities for current and future generations of female athletes and ensure our sporting infrastructure keeps pace with the growth we're seeing across our region. It's another example of what can happen when local voices are heard and governments work together to deliver practical outcomes. Beyond Mackay, this Budget continues important investments across Queensland, including new schools, hospital upgrades, more police on the beat, critical road and transport infrastructure, and record investment in social and community housing. But my focus remains firmly on what this means for Mackay. For too long, many people in our community felt that Mackay wasn't getting the attention it deserved. I'm committed to changing that. Whether it's healthcare, housing, sporting facilities, community safety or cost-of-living relief, I'll continue fighting to ensure Mackay gets its fair share and that the voices of local residents are heard in Brisbane. This Budget won't solve every challenge overnight, but it represents another step forward for our region and builds on the work already underway across Mackay. Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to share their ideas, concerns and priorities with me over the past year. Your feedback helps shape the conversations I have in Parliament and the issues I continue to advocate for on behalf of our community. As your local Member, I'll keep listening, keep advocating and keep working to deliver the outcomes that matter most to Mackay families.
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The Mackay Show Arts & Crafts Pavilion overflowed with creativity this year, with organisers reporting what is believed to be a record number of entries across a wide range of categories. The pavilion featured exhibits from the arts, crafts, home economics, photography, patchwork, needlework and children's sections, along with many other displays showcasing local talent. From artworks and handmade creations to baking and school displays, the pavilion highlights the passion, skill and community spirit of those who entered. Organisers thanked all exhibitors who contributed to this year's display, describing it as one of the best so far. “A huge thank you to every exhibitor who entered and helped make this year's display one of the best we've ever seen.”
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Laughter, new experiences and moments of quiet courage once again filled Whitsunday Anglican School as the Mackay Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp returned last weekend. Twenty young people from across the Mackay region took part in the three-day camp from Saturday 20th to Monday 22nd June, enjoying activities in a safe and inclusive environment. Now in its 12th year locally, the camp gives children and young people with disabilities the chance to take part in enriching experiences while also providing respite for families and carers. Hosted at Whitsunday Anglican School since 2014 as part of the Sony Foundation Australia national initiative, the camp remains a valued community program. More than 120 student volunteers from Years 10 to 12 gave up part of their school holidays to support the weekend, including 51 Year 11 companions. Teacher and Camp Coordinator Lisa Buddery said the camp continues to grow. “This is our 12th year running Sony Camp at Mackay’s Anglican schools, and it has grown bigger and better each year since 2014,” she said. “We’ve had new sponsors come on board, and we introduced a Build-a-Bear-style workshop where campers created soft toys.” Ms Buddery said the camp aimed to provide experiences young people might not otherwise have access to in a safe and supportive environment. “Activities such as Mackay Gymnastics, movie nights, discos and Show Day allow campers to take part in fun, memorable experiences,” she said. “For many families, this camp is invaluable. It provides 48 hours of respite, while giving campers a space where everything is focused on them.” “One of the most rewarding moments is seeing a camper overcome fear at the foam pit with encouragement from companions.” “For me, it’s incredibly rewarding. You see the difference it makes, not only for campers but our Year 11 companions as well.” Camp attendee Mikayla Mpeck said she especially enjoyed spending time with friends. “My favourite parts were gymnastics and swimming because I got to spend that time with my friends,” she said. “I enjoyed the farm animals, especially taking care of them.” “I would definitely like to do Sony Camp again.” Year 11 companion Nethmi Sella Kapu said teamwork was central to the camp, with students paired with campers and working closely together throughout the weekend. “We’ve learned to think creatively and work together to find solutions when challenges come up,” she said. Year 11 companion Emily Wilkins said the camp also strengthened connection and understanding between students and campers. “We’ve done swimming, gymnastics, discos, movie nights, and today’s Show Day has been amazing,” she said. The weekend once again delivered fun, connection and meaningful shared experiences for campers, families and student volunteers alike. Pictured is year 11 companions, with Camp Coordinator Lisa Buddery. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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A major upgrade and extension of the Pioneer River Levee system is set to improve flood protection for Mackay residents and businesses, carried out by local contractor Pentacon. The project is jointly funded by $6.1 million through the Australian Government’s Priority Community Infrastructure Program, $555,225 from the Disaster Ready Fund and $12.7 million from Mackay Regional Council. Works will include construction of a new levee wall, stormwater upgrades, road reconstruction and revegetation works. The existing levee will be extended along the southern bank of the Pioneer River adjacent to West Mackay, with flood gates to be installed at key access points for activation when flooding is imminent. Mayor Greg Williamson said the project was a significant investment in the region's flood resilience and would help protect homes, businesses and key infrastructure from future flood events. "We know how significant flood events can be for our region and this project will provide greater peace of mind for residents by reducing risk and improving community resilience," he said. Mayor Williamson said the project was being delivered in response to increasing flood risks across the region, resulting in more frequent emergency services call-outs in recent years. "What we have to do, as a council, is make sure that the bulk of our area in West Mackay is protected." Council estimates the project will cost just under $19 million. "The cost of the project, we're estimating now at just under $19 million," Mayor Williamson said. He said council had been pursuing the project for many years. "We've been campaigning for many years. Certainly since I've been in the chair, so that's a decade." Construction is expected to begin in mid-June and continue through to December 2026, weather permitting. "We expect it'll go through until December, weather permitting, to be completed by the end of December," Mayor Williamson said. While some disruption is expected during the construction period, works will be delivered in stages, with advance notice provided to minimise impacts on residents and businesses. Access to properties will be maintained throughout construction and the Mackay Cemetery will remain open. Executive Manager Portfolio Management Office Mick Zimmerle said the project would provide important benefits for the community. "This is vital for the Mackay community," Mr Zimmerle said. "It's going to protect West Mackay and all the residents and properties around." Mr Zimmerle said the project would involve multiple construction methods. "It's a combination of both concrete block levee construction as well as earth levee," he said. He said the project had been informed by years of planning and flood studies. "A considerable amount of planning goes into this," Mr Zimmerle said. "Our team's been working on this for many years, and they do flood studies up and down the river to come up with this construction." Cr Williamson said the completed project would deliver long-term flood protection benefits for the region. "At the end of this project, you will get much better protection for river flooding than you would ever have in the last 50 or 60 years." Mackay Regional Council is upgrading and extending the Pioneer River Levee system in West Mackay, with funding from the Australian Government and council, to improve flood protection for residents, businesses and key infrastructure, with construction set to run from mid-2026 to December 2026, weather permitting. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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A Mackay man’s routine bottle-collecting hobby turned into an unexpected act of kindness at a local car park. The man, who collects discarded plastic bottles and cans to redeem for 10-cent refunds, said he was going about his usual morning when a woman called him over and handed him two empty bottles. After joking that he now “owed her 20 cents,” the pair shared a brief, light-hearted moment before the woman and her companion went to leave. But then, just as they drove off, the pair handed the man an empty Coke bottle — with a quiet instruction to “look under the cap.” Inside the neck of the bottle, he found a folded $50 note. Stunned by the gesture, the man said the pair simply drove away without waiting for thanks, in a moment he described as proof that kindness still exists in everyday Mackay life. “Good, generous people still do exist,” he reflected.
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26th June Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm Sorrentos: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm 27th June Airlie Beach Hotel: Back to the 70’s, 80’s & 90’s, 2pm-5pm, Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm Sorrentos: Andrew Baladino, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Mick Woodbridge, 8pm-Late 28th June Airlie Beach Hotel: Back to the 70’s, 80’s & 90’s, 2pm-5pm, Andy Mammers, 7pm-10pm The Colonial Palms Motor Inn - Live Jazz, Blues & Grooves On The Deck, 2pm -5pm Sorrentos: Ash Smith, 4pm-7pm KC’s Bar & Grill: Andrew Baldino, 8pm-Late 29th June Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris 6:30pm-9:30pm Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm 30th June Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm 1st July Sorrentos: Will Heta, 4pm-7pm 2nd July Sorrentos: Lucy Rose, 4pm-7pm 3rd July Sorrentos: Kaedan McCarthy, 4pm-7pm
Read moreA field of more than 150 players helped make Friday's Show Day 3-Ball Ambrose a tremendous success, seeing some impressive scoring and plenty of laughs despite the afternoon drizzle. The local Show Day public holiday, sponsored by BC contribution’s Andrew Colborne, attracted a strong field of competition. Winners Chris Elms, Andrew Scotford & Simon Dobbins claimed victory with a remarkable 53.167. They narrowly edged out Runner-ups Ben Synak, Nicky Ryan & Caitlyn Daly, who weren’t too far behind with a modest 53.333. Sid and Brad Fleet joined Jon Miller in third place, while Jacob Dewis, Bryce Fraser and Brendon Russell rounded out the top four. Away from the Show Day festivities, there was no shortage of strong performances across the PCG’s regular competitions. Visiting golfer Raymond Foster from Gladstone Golf Club set the tone early in the week, winning Tuesday's men's Stableford with 37 points ahead of John Grosskreutz, who also claimed the nearest-the-pin prize on the 9th hole. John was able to bring it back on Wednesday though, scoring first with 33 points over a very close second by Nic Apruzzese with 32. In the ladies and veterans competitions, Lyn Muller enjoyed a particularly successful week, winning Tuesday's Vets Stableford on a countback from Tina Badenhorst before backing it up with victory in Wednesday's ladies competition ahead of Di Dobbins. Thursday's Stableford saw Clay Coles edge out Ash Law in A Grade, while William Brownlie took B Grade honours from Tyson Griffiths. Andrew Albergo produced one of the standout individual performances of the week, claiming three nearest-the-pin prizes on the 2nd, 9th and 13th holes. Saturday's Stableford sponsored by Master Butchers Whitsundays produced more strong performances, with Michael Ward edging out John Bissell to win A Grade, while Barry Mortimer's 38 points secured B Grade honours ahead of Bradley Wilkinson. In the ladies competition, Tiina Randmae finished one shot clear of Di Chard to claim victory. The week concluded with Sunday's Stableford competition, where Andrew Mason produced an unbelievable 40-point round to claim the men's title ahead of Sam Keating and Nissen Cooper. Sara Hagy won the ladies event with 36 points over Paula McQuat to cap off another busy and successful week of golf at Proserpine Golf Club. Contributed with thanks by Tiina Randmae
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Monday self-selected triple winners were Mark BJ Barry Donn and Kerry Pedlar defeating Sandra Snow, Ken Wallis and Chris Frew. Runners-up C. Murray, R. Agg, and Denis Madeley defeated B. Sims, M. Hyde, and Ron Hyde. It didn’t take long for the jackpot to go off. This was won in the game between France Willman Jenny Healey and Chris Healey, who defeated Max Ritchie, Peter Howie, and Peter Nesbitt. On Tuesday, Greg McSwain and Graham Smith won the afternoon against Lauine Davies and Laurie Land. The jackpot didn’t go off. In club competition, Saturday's mixed pairs quarterfinal winners were Skinny Querro and Pat Tracey, Greg Colquhoun and Fely Duncan, Penny Warren and Allan Rolfe, and Robyn Stitt and Kevin Daniels. On Sunday, Stuart Jeal and Ron Hyde won the men's A pairs final over Mark Drummond and Allan Rolfe, while Denise Wallace and Penny Warren claimed the ladies' A pairs title against Robyn Stitt and Fely Duncan. On Sunday afternoon the winners came out on Rink 3. They were Maree Nesbitt, Jeff Dan, and Jim Steele defeating June Lauine Davies and France Willman. Runners-up Neale Chittenden, Heide Reiff, and Max Ritchie defeated Angela Y. Alby, Vigar, and Ron S. The jackpot didn’t go off. Best wishes to our Men’s Dunn Cup Team of Laurie Land, Graham Read, Ron Hyde, and Allan Rolfe, who are playing at Suburban Townsville this week! Photo captions Penny Warren and Denise Wallace. Photo Supplied: Penny Warren
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Entries in the Rating Passage division at Jeanneau and 74 Islands Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW) are on the rise, so the competition the 38th running of the regatta, to be held from 6-13 August is looking stronger than it has for years. So far 14 owners are locked in for the Rating Passage division at Whitsunday Sailing Club’s (WSC) annual event. Six days of racing, where the competition ratches up a notch on some of the most scenic waters in the world, will be complemented by seven nights of entertainment organised by Whitsunday Sailing Club. There will be food stalls and live music every night, starting on opening night following registration – so come and join the party! Returning from 7 to 10 August, come and enjoy a free coffee at the Ronstan Coffee Cart and a chance to try an Orbit Winch. Another popular return is Friday Night Movies in the Park for the whole family, starting at 5pm. Lay Day offers many options. Join the Thomsons from Ocean Crusaders for their annual Clean Up to help keep local waters pristine. Those taking part will go out on Ocean Rafting’s high speed big RIB and will be dropped off along shore line around Double Cones and Armit area of islands. “The rubbish - we collected over 380 kilos last year - gets put on Ocean Crusaders’ barge. We go pretty much from 8am to1pm, then it’s back to the Club (WSC) for a barbecue,” says Ian Thomson, who has long organised such events at major races and events he and Annika compete in. Those who would like to take part in this worthwhile Lay Day clean up, sponsored by www.boatnames.com.au, can book at: www.oceancrusaders.org/events Or join in the 74 Islands Distillery Long Lunch at Elementa Whitsundays. It is an exclusive three-hour extravaganza with canapés and beverages, live entertainment amid stunning Coral Sea views. See the official website to book and look at other fun things to do on Lay Day. On the final night is the Presentation Dinner (a ticketed event with bookings online) followed by fireworks and music from Viva Band to close out another memorable year. Contributed with thanks to Di Pearson. WHAT: Airlie Beach Race Week WHEN: 6-13 August www.abrw.com.au
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Photo Caption *From left Wendy Pomeroy, Mandy O'Brien, Rene Thommen, Arthur McManus, Alma Rose and Mark Mawson and Tony Kelly. The winter solstice has arrived, bringing an extra minute of sunlight each day, and Airlie Beach Bowling Club were quick to make the most of it. The week got underway with a President at Home Day, along with an All Ladies Day expertly organised by Carol Crosbie and her executive committee. A special congratulations goes to the winning team from South Suburban, consisting of Di Dobbins, Margo Stanley, Wendy Pomeroy and Joan McGrath. Wednesday was a busy day at the club, with John Fielding's team claiming first prize and Alan Pershouse's team finishing second in the afternoon social bowls. That evening, members came together for a special fundraiser organised by Yvonne and Bobby Spees in support of Gail Simms' granddaughter, helping raise some money and showing the club's strong community spirit. Following the Show Whitsundays public holiday, the club turned its attention to pennant action, with Divisions 1, 2 and 4 all taking to the greens. Thanks to the efforts of head selector Warren Mills, each side was well represented. Division 1 recorded a draw against North Mackay before falling to Northern Beaches, while Division 2 hosted Northern Beaches and North Mackay across the weekend. Division 4 narrowly lost to Mackay City before producing an impressive 47-26 victory over North Mackay, leaving the side in a strong position with one game remaining before the bye. Contributed with thanks to Mark Mawson.
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A strong home crowd packed into Les Stagg Oval on Sunday afternoon as the Whitsunday Brahmans welcomed one of the competition's toughest opponents, the Mackay Magpies, for a challenging day of rugby league. Despite the results not falling their way, the Brahmans showed plenty of grit and determination against a Magpies outfit that demonstrated why they remain among the benchmark teams in the competition. The Under 20s kicked off the day and came up against a polished Magpies side. The young Brahmans never stopped competing, with their efforts rewarded with fan favourite Braith Tetley scoring the only try to finish the game off 4-54. While the scoreboard was tough reading, the squad continued to battle until the final whistle and gained valuable experience against quality opposition. Reserve Grade followed and produced one of the contests of the day. In a physical encounter, the Brahmans held the magpies down but the birds managed to edge ahead late, handing the home side a narrow 14-10 defeat. The effort and resilience shown by the Brahmans was a testament to the group's growing confidence and commitment. A Grade closed out the afternoon in front of an enthusiastic crowd eager to see their side take on one of the competition heavyweights. The Brahmans threw everything at the visitors and were rewarded with three tries, with New Zealand imports Caleb Savelio - Thompson, Hawaiiki Annandale and English import Ryan Taylor all crossing for the home side, but the experienced Magpies outfit capitalised on key opportunities to secure a 24-12 victory. While the result didn't go the home side's way, the Brahmans showed plenty of courage and determination against one of the strongest teams in the league. Although the scoreboard reflected a tough afternoon against quality opposition, there were plenty of positives to take away. Across all grades, the Brahmans displayed resilience, effort and club pride, never backing down from the challenge. The club would also like to thank the loyal supporters who turned out in numbers to create a fantastic atmosphere at Les Stagg Oval. The energy from the sidelines was felt throughout the day and continues to be a driving force behind the teams each week. The Brahmans now turn their focus to the next round as all four sides take on Mackay Brothers in Mackay on the 5th of July, determined to build on the lessons learned from Sunday's clashes and continue improving as the season progresses. Contributed with thanks to Many Bourke.
Read moreIf you're using DISC, it's probably because someone introduced it to your workplace years ago and it simply became "what we do here." Not because it's the best tool available. DISC was developed nearly 100 years ago and focuses on categorising people into four broadly defined behavioural styles. It tells you how someone tends to behave. Don’t get me wrong - definitely useful - however, it’s like describing a car by its colour and never looking under the bonnet. CliftonStrengths takes a very different approach – and I’m hooked! Rather than putting people into DISC’s four boxes, it identifies an individual's unique pattern from 34 talents. Based on positive psychology (looking at what you do well vs what are your gaps and weaknesses), it’s like cracking open your head to see exactly how you tick – but only in a positive way! It helps people understand what they naturally do best and how they can easily leverage those talents for better performance, job satisfaction, and team collaboration. In this world of ‘busy-ness’ I’m all about efficiency, so it makes total sense to me. The research is compelling. Gallup has studied millions of people over several decades and found individuals who ‘sit in their strengths’ every day are more engaged, productive and experience greater wellbeing. Teams that intentionally use their strengths perform better, get along better, and collaborate more effectively. DISC often creates statements such as, "That's just my style." Whereas the CliftonStrengths creates conversations such as, "How can I leverage my talents better?" The first statement is a ‘full stop’ whilst the latter fosters growth. In today's workplace, we don't need more labels and ‘boxes’ constructed around our potentials. We need people who understand their strengths, appreciate the strengths of others, and know how to combine collective strengths to achieve greater outcomes. Think of it this way - DISC is a black-and-white photo of your team, whereas CliftonStrengths is high-definition colour. Once you've seen the difference, it's hard to go back. Level-up your team and your business with CliftonStrengths!
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"Winner: Jan Hollingsworth Theme: Textures This week's winning image transports us to the heart of Quito, Ecuador, where the breathtaking Church of the Society of Jesus showcases a remarkable display of texture, craftsmanship and history. Constructed by the Jesuits between 1597 and 1760, the church is renowned for its elaborate interior, adorned almost entirely in gold leaf. Beyond its striking appearance, the church is rich in symbolism and religious iconography, with its artwork designed to educate and inspire worshippers. The building also reflects a unique mix of European Baroque architecture and indigenous traditions, making it an important cultural and historical treasure that continues to represent Quito's diverse heritage. Jan's photograph beautifully captures the intricate detail and ornate design that have made the landmark one of South America's most celebrated religious buildings."
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A gentle giant with a goofy side, Happy Jack is searching for a patient family to help him continue building his confidence. The 14-month-old Greyhound and Arab mix can be a bit shy at first but those who earn his trust are rewarded with a sweet and affectionate friend for life. Once he feels comfortable, Happy Jack's playful personality shines through. The young dog loves his social time with other friendly dogs, enjoys a good food puzzle toy and never misses the opportunity to stick his head out the car window. He is also a fan of lead walks and, after a day of adventures, is more than happy to settle in for a nice relaxing cuddle. While he is currently recovering from knee surgery, he’s still eager to find his forever home where he can thrive post recovery. He is particularly great with kids of all ages, being notoriously easy to walk, making him the perfect companion for any family looking for a loyal new member. If you've got the patience and space to help this big sweetheart settle into his next chapter, Bowen Collinsville Pet Rescue would love to hear from you.
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Best-selling author Rachel Armstrong to deliver 2026 From the Heart keynote at the upcoming Whitsundays Writers Festival. She set her debut novel here. Now, talented, multi-award-winning romance author Rachel Armstrong is returning to the Whitsundays to take centre stage at the region’s premier literary event. Rachel has been named the 2026 From the Heart keynote speaker for the Whitsundays Writers Festival – a homecoming for the Townsville-based author who has cherished the region since childhood. “I’ve always loved the Whitsundays and spent many holidays in the area, so it’s no surprise it became the setting of my debut novel,” Rachel said. “To now deliver the keynote here is a special honour.” As one of Australia’s leading romance writers – and a two-time Romantic Book of the Year winner – Rachel knows exactly why the genre dominates global best-seller lists. “Love resonates with everyone. Romance guarantees emotional impact and the happily-ever-after we all long for,” she said. “Throw in some banter, a little danger, or a touch of magic, and you have a book readers simply can’t put down.” The From the Heart keynote is a cornerstone of the Whitsundays Writers Festival, previously delivered by Miles Franklin winner Shankari Chandran and acclaimed author Dr Anita Heiss. What: 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival When: Sunday 13 September 2026 Where: Whitsundays Marine Club, Cannonvale
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June 26th Echoes of Pink Floyd - 60 Years of Pink Floyd, Proserpine Entertainment Centre 28th Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets 8am–1pm July 8th Cirque Nouvelle, Proserpine Entertainment Centre 23rd Fire & Rain: The James Taylor Songbook, Proserpine Entertainment Centre 25th Whitsunday Mayor’s Charity Ball, , Proserpine Entertainment Centre 25th-26th Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival 30th Your Song, Proserpine Entertainment Centre 30th-2nd Aug Great Barrier Reef Festival
Read moreCommunity Art Gallery, Proserpine The Community Art Gallery showcases works and merchandise by local artists across a diverse range of subjects, styles, and mediums, including paintings, photography, ceramics, jewellery, textiles, sculpture, and handcrafted gifts. Opening Hours Monday to Friday: 9.00am – 4.00pm Saturday: 9.00am – 1.00pm (new extended hours) Volunteers Wanted The Community Art Gallery in Proserpine is seeking volunteers to welcome visitors and support daily operations. Shifts are flexible, running for 3.5 hours on weekdays or 9am–1pm on Saturdays. No experience is required – volunteers help greet guests, share information, and create a welcoming visitor experience. Learn more: https://www.creativeconnectionswhitsunday.com/volunteer Whitsundays Writers Festival: Early Bird tickets closing! Early Bird tickets for the 2026 Whitsundays Writers Festival close 30 June. Full-day tickets are $49 and include all sessions, two drink vouchers, a gourmet lunch box, and refreshments. Concession tickets are $39, children under 12 are free, and session-only tickets are just $10 each: https://www.whitsundayswriters.com/2026-programme-speakers/ Markets This July Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Markets (Coconut Grove) run 28 June, 9 July, 16 July & 28 July, 8am–1pm, shocasing local artisans, makers, artists and food vendors whenever a ship arrives. Browse handmade gifts, original artworks, and local treats while supporting small businesses. Proserpine Community Market is on Sunday 19 July, 8:30am–12:30pm at Proserpine Showgrounds, featuring coffee, food, live music, and the Whitsundays’ only purely local craft market. Meet makers, shop handmade goods, and enjoy a relaxed community morning. Get in touch! This column welcome contributions from across the community. If you would like to submit a poem, creative writing piece, profile suggestion, event information, or share your creative story, please contact hello@whitsundayswriters.com
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