On Friday 15th March, well-known local identities will take to the stage to display their talents with the support of Choreographer Dolly Louw and back-up dancers from Fame Talent School. One participant will walk away with the coveted Mirror-Ball Trophy. This night of entertainment is all for a great cause, raising money to support the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Over the next four weeks we will profile two dancers each week. First up, Josh and Chloe. Chloe Gunthorpe Chloe Gunthorpe, a Directo
Read the full storyTutti is a vocal ensemble under the direction of Jan Whelan OAM. Jan is known around Mackay, not only for her work with the Mackay Choral Society and Mackay Musical Comedy Players, but also her accompanying work with soloists, school choirs and music ministries. Jan started the group in 2002 as a small ensemble and trios and quartets. Tutti members were very proud when in 2022 Jan was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia in the Australia Day Awards for Services to Music as an Accompanist.
Read the full storyThe Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) is moving offsite, with a performance from the Australian Army’s 1 RAR Band at the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens on Friday, 2 March, 2024.
The decision to host the performance from Townsville’s Band of the 1st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (known as 1 RAR Band) at the offsite venue was made following the closure of the MECC’s Auditorium, due to storm damage over the Christmas period.
Director Community and Client Services Janine McKay said the Defence unit’s strong sense of community was something the MECC could not pass up on.
“We have been collaborating with the band to bring music workshops to schools, and a preview performance at Caneland Central,” Ms McKay said.
“We’re fortunate to have skilled staff who are able to deliver offsite events; and hosting free, live music, with the talented 1RAR Band at Meadowlands Amphitheatre is something we’re proud to offer our community,” she said.
One RAR Band supports all three Brigade units, other Defence organisations, and the wider community. The band comprises a 10-piece ensemble (drums, trumpets, trombones and saxophones) alongside vocalists, playing contemporary music that blends modern beats with Australian classics. After success following their Sunset Vibes performance at the Winton Outback Festival in 2023, the band are excited to bring their music to Mackay.
The MECC are encouraging all ages to come along and enjoy this free, family-friendly night out.
“This will be a memorable night out. Bring some chairs or a blanket and pack a picnic. We will also have a variety of food trucks available for those looking for savoury or desserts options,” Ms McKay said.
FREE EVENT
WHAT: The MECC Presents Sunset Vibes with the 1 RAR Band
WHEN: Saturday 2 March, 6.30pm
WHERE: Meadowlands Amphitheatre, Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Caption: A show-stopping performance from the Australian Army’s 1 RAR Band. Photos supplied
Launched in 2020, the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre is eager to bring back the 2024 instalment of the September Weekender, the popular event that keeps the entire family entertained.
Scheduled for the September School Holidays, this weekend extravaganza features the best of the best, from adults only evenings, musical icons, and circus performance.
Now, what’s on the agenda?
Day one will see award-winning cabaret, Briefs Factory, alongside celebrated songbird, Sahara Beck, return to the stage, following their sold-out shows.
Day two includes Australia Idol judge and iconic musician Marcia Hines to perform her album, ‘Still Shining’, plus many more of her hits.
Day three is kid-centric, including the Brats Carnival, a wild circus with fantastic music, acts of amazement and eye-popping party tricks, as part of the DBCT Kids Theatre Season.
Venue and Events Operations Manager, Jemma Carey, said the weekend is a celebration of live events, programmed to provide the ultimate weekend of live entertainment.
“We have programmed on these dates to encourage visitation to our region, three events over three days during the school holidays will provide both locals and visitors the chance to experience some of Australia’s best entertainers live in Mackay,” Ms Carey said.
“The first September Weekender took place over three-years ago, and we still get requests to bring it back. We’re excited by this announcement and the MECC team is excited to bring this flamboyant event to Mackay in September” Ms Carey said.
September Weekender events are currently on with tickets available at www.themecc.com.au
SEPTEMBER WEEKENDER
Friday 20 September | Briefs Factory Bite Club
Saturday 21 September | Marcia Hines
Sunday 22 September | DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season Brats Carnival
Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
SAVE THE DATE:
WHEN: September 20 – 22
WHERE: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
“Odd Couples – A Season of One Act Comedies”
Presented By Kucom Theatre
Review by Vicky Bobeldyk
Last week, Vicky reviewed The Extraordinary Revelations of Orca the Goldfish by David Tristram. This week, we explore the remaining two plays in Kucom’s three-play comedy act, Odd Couples.
Call Centre Call by Bruce Olive
Directed by James Hunter
Frustration we can all relate to is the focus of the second play on the bill, in which Henry McThistle played by Michael Brennan experiences several automated voices when on phone calls. Set in the time of flip-phones and terrible dial-up, Henry just needs to ‘talk to a real human’ about his intermittent broadband. What he receives is a never-ending stream of selections he must make on his phone.
Brennan’s third play with Kucom sees him much more at ease on the stage, his delivery is more natural as he connects, as we all can, with Henry’s mounting frustration. Two newcomers play the Voices – Jaki Pianta and Rebecca Williams. Pianta has some complex repetition which can become monotonous, but she delivers them with superb comic timing. Williams’ role is a little more complex as her role has two different versions in another case of fantasy versus reality. Which version will Henry choose?
What’s For Pudding? By David Tristram
Directed by Bronwyn Grannall
When the question is asked ‘What’s for pudding?’ frustrated Mary played by Pia Larsen explodes on her dull, accountant husband, Jack (James Hunter) of how bored she is, how boring their lives are and that it in no way involves dessert of any kind, let alone pudding. They are interrupted by the unexpected arrival of couple Maureen (Tessa King) and her husband Ted (John Irvine) and later, the hopeless Dennis (Andrew Deguara) who just wants to order some pants from Mary’s catalogue.
Plying themselves with far too much whiskey, the cold reality of the state of both couples’ relationships and the reason behind Mary’s mood are revealed.
Larsen as ever, delivers a humorous, well-rounded, natural and relatable character as she holds the narrative together. Hunter relaxes along with his character to produce some beautiful and funny moments. Irvine and King, utilise their combined vast experience to create endearing characters but it is Deguara who once again steals the show with his superb comic timing. In a similar role to that he played in ‘The Vicar of Dibley’, Deguara maintains his focus then whips out his punchlines with joyous, thigh-slapping precision.
In all, wonderful, light-hearted evening (or matinee if that suits you better) of fun and laughter thanks to the folks at Kucom Theatre.
Remaining sessions at Kucom Theatre:
Thurs - Sat 8-10 Feb at 7:30pm
Duration: 2 hours plus 2 x 20 min intervals
Contains adult content
Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/odd-couples-a-season-of-one-act-plays
James Hunter and Jack and Pia Larsen as Mary in ‘What’s for Pudding?’
The Soroptimists of Mackay are inviting the community to their ‘Celebrating the Connections of Community’ display, at the Jubilee Community Centre Foyer, open until the end of February.
The Soroptimists of Mackay is a group focusing on bettering women's rights, issues affecting women and girls, and creating equality for everyone, and the Mackay group concentrates on assisting vulnerable individuals in the community anyway they can.
The Mackay of the Soroptimists were established in 1976, and are an integral group to Mackay, supporting and raising funds for key Mackay organisations and services.
The group acts to advocate for women, one of their key services includes J’s Wardrobe, at the Mackay Base Hospital, which equips patients and individuals with clothing, providing them with dignity of wearing clean and supportable clothing.
Ways the community can help the Mackay Soroptimists:
• J’s Wardrobe is always accepting casual clothing that does not have drawstring closures or belts. This is required so that the clothing can easily be put on by patients who have arrived at hospital in an emergency situation.
• Clothing donated that is not appropriate for the hospital, the Soroptimists host pre-loved clothing stalls, which fund the purchase of new underwear.
• Their Bags for Dignity Program consistently requires brand new personal toiletry items, including sanitary pads and tampons, shampoo and conditioner, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, soap and container, hairbrush, lip balm, face wipes, socks, water bottles, shopping bags, and backpacks.
• Donation of pencils and pencil cases for their Smith Family Mackay.
• Any other preloved or new materials that are not appropriate for other programmes are contributed for their Bags for Change Project, with St Vincent’s de Paul Support Service.
For those wishing to hear more about the Soroptimists of Mackay, or to donate, contact the Soroptimists on simackay@siswp.org or ring 0431 707 010.
Whether your child dreams of a professional dance career or simply wants to get active and make friends, Dance Express has the perfect class! Here your child can find a safe space where they are free to express themselves, build friendships and set the stage for a lifetime of creativity and confidence.
From our Award-Winning Ready Set Dance Program for Preschoolers, our V.I.Prep class exclusive to Preppies and our extensive School Aged Program, we can help meet your child’s unique needs, personality and ability. We offer a full range of classes including: Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Singing and Cheer.
Through their Ready Set Dance Program, Dance Express has become the go-to studio for over 120 of Mackay’s Preschoolers.
“We are so proud of our Preschool Programs and love the Confidence, Coordination and Creativity it cultivates in our Preschoolers from Walking Age to 5yrs. As a Premium Partner studio, we offer the full range of classes including: Dance, Ballet, Acro & Move which is a class designed for Toddlers and their Parents!” Karen Bishop, Director of Dance Express explains.
“We understand the busy timetables that families juggle and want dance to be a stress-free activity! From one 45-minute class a week to elite training, we have a class and time to suit all families.
“2024 is certainly the perfect year to get into dance! We have huge plans for our 20th Concert and can’t wait to celebrate with you all,” Karen says.
After 20 years in the biz, Dance Express continues to be a home away from home for so many dancers and is proud to be a safe and stable third place for the young people of Mackay.
Dance Express will be in full force at the upcoming Mackay Sports Expo, so come and say hello to our friendly DE Team and get your child moving in 2024!
Fun and smiles at Dance Express Mackay / Photo Credit: Dance Express (Facebook)
Unlock a world of new passions and opportunities for both adults and children alike at Mackay's ultimate sport and recreation event—the JET Group Mackay Sport and Rec Expo!
With over 100 clubs gathered under one roof, this expo is your one-stop destination to explore a vast array of sports and activities.
Mayor Greg Williamson invites attendees to dive into the action-packed day, featuring interactive booths, active zone demonstrations, and thrilling competitions.
From parents seeking new sports for their kids to adults eager to discover their next adventure, there's something for everyone to explore and enjoy. Embark on a journey of discovery as you try your hand at Scouts' rope bridges, dragonboat paddling, woodchopping, and lawn bowls—all within the vibrant atmosphere of the MECC.
Plus, with a relaxed session at the start of the event, inclusivity is ensured for all attendees.
Thanks to the generous support of JET Group Mackay, attendees have the chance to win fantastic prizes, including $1000 for one lucky club and exciting giveaways for individuals.
Join us on Sunday, February 11th, from 9 am to 1 pm, and ignite your passion for sport and recreation. Don't miss this opportunity to explore new horizons and create unforgettable memories. Visit mackay.qld.gov.au/sportexpo for more information.
What: JET Group Mackay Sport and Rec Expo
When: Sunday, February 11, from 9am to 1pm
Where: The MECC
Tickets: Free entry
Participating in team sports is a cornerstone of a child's holistic development, offering a wealth of benefits that extend well beyond the boundaries of the playing field. As children eagerly put on their jerseys or lace up their cleats, they embark on a transformative journey that shapes their physical health, social skills, emotional resilience, and cognitive abilities.
Team sports contribute significantly to the physical wellbeing of children. Regular engagement in physical activities helps build strong bones and muscles, fosters cardiovascular health, and instills a sense of commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Beyond the immediate physical advantages, involvement in team sports cultivates discipline as children commit to regular exercise and training routines.
The social development derived from team sports is equally invaluable. Being part of a team teaches vital interpersonal skills, including communication, cooperation, and teamwork. Collaborative experiences encourage children to share responsibilities, strategise together, and celebrate victories as a cohesive unit. Through wins and losses, they develop resilience, humility, and a deep understanding of the importance of supporting teammates.
Emotionally, team sports provide a platform for children to navigate a range of feelings, from the elation of success to the disappointment of defeat. Learning to manage stress, cope with setbacks, and handle diverse emotions contributes to the development of robust self-esteem and confidence.
Cognitively, participating in team sports enhances decision-making and critical thinking skills. Understanding game strategies, anticipating opponents' moves, and making split-second decisions on the field all contribute to cognitive development. Moreover, team sports often involve learning and adhering to rules, promoting a sense of order that can positively impact a child's academic performance.
The communal spirit forged through team sports extends beyond the game, fostering lasting friendships and a sense of belonging. Shared experiences, challenges, and triumphs build a strong sense of community among teammates. This communal aspect teaches children to respect diversity, appreciate differences, and work collectively towards shared goals.
Team sports play a pivotal role in shaping a child's character and fostering holistic growth. Through the joyous chaos of the playing field, children absorb life lessons that contribute to their becoming well-rounded individuals. Whether scoring a goal, making a crucial play, or cheering on a teammate, the transformative power of team sports for children is undeniable, leaving an enduring impact on their journey toward adulthood.
“Odd Couples – A Season Of One Act Comedies”
Presented By Kucom Theatre
Review by Vicky Bobeldyk
Kucom have been very busy in recent months. The installation of brand-new tiered seating has turned their once-bare, black-box performance space into a THEATRE! With 100 bright red, fresh smelling, comfortable seats, all raked to perfection there is not a bad seat in the house!
Each performance features three plays that, as the name suggests, all explore the relationship dynamics of several sets of couples who at first appear quite normal but turn out to be rather odd. But what is ‘normal’ in a modern relationship? Let us dive in and see…
The Extraordinary Revelations of Orca the Goldfish by David Tristram
Directed by Hayley Long
‘For Henry Smith life was rarely dull. For Alice Smith life was rarely anything else.’
In true Tristram hilarity, this brilliant little comedy features a couple married for many years; daydreamer Henry played expertly by Geoff Stuart-McLean and perfectionist housewife, Alice played by the consummate professional – Bronwyn Grannall, who nag, fight, annoy and tease one another inescapably. Whist at first, the couple seem locked in their every-day squabbles, simple but effective lighting changes clue us into their very complex and highly entertaining fantasy worlds.
In Henry’s daydreams, he is strong, athletic, an actor/comedian, a Casanova and President of the USA. For Alice, in her exotic fantasies, she is relentlessly pursued by lovers in naughty but clever scenarios. The only one on stage privy to both reality and fantasy is their goldfish – Orca. Does he have the strength to bring the two together? Stuart-McLean and Grannall are two of the most experienced actors in the region. They float through tricky dialogue with ease, bounce off each other and clearly have a wonderful rapport. It is a delight to see these two heavyweights in action. This play is a must-see for all aspiring actors for the lesson in ‘how it’s done’ alone.
Geoff Stewart-McLean as Henry and Bronwyn Grannall as Alice
What happens in the next two plays?
You’ll have to pick up next week’s newspaper for the final two reviews. Or, better yet, book tickets to Kucom’s performance and see the action for yourself this weekend!
Season at Kucom Theatre over two weekends:
Thurs - Sat 1-3 Feb at 7:30pm
Sun 4 Feb at 2pm (Matinee)
Thurs - Sat 8-10 Feb at 7:30pm.
Duration: 2 hours plus 2 x 20 min intervals
Contains adult content.
Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/odd-couples-a-season-of-one-act-plays
Mackay Regional Council has made the difficult decision to cancel tomorrow night’s Australia Day Awards Gala.
The decision was made to ensure the safety of attendees due to possible hazardous weather conditions associated with the crossing of a forecasted tropical cyclone.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the decision was a difficult one that council was taking with an abundance of caution.
“The fact that we have a cyclone forecast to cross the coast late at night about the time this event is set to conclude is something we can’t ignore,” Mayor Williamson said.
“We don’t want 400-plus people on the road coming from all parts of our region if there is severe weather,’’ he said.
“We are currently looking at options around an appropriate way to celebrate the winners and nominees at a later date.”
The winners of the Mackay Regional Council Australia Day Awards, including the Citizen and Young Citizen of the Year, will be announced on Australia Day (January 26).
The MECC team will be contacting ticket holders today to notify them of the cancellation and provide refunds where applicable.
The Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony in the MECC on Australia Day morning will also be postponed to a later date.
For updates on the 12 council-supported Australia Day Community Events, including postponements and cancellations, residents are advised to head to council’s website or the Facebook pages of the organisers.
The Bureau of Meteorology has a current warning zone for gale force winds with damaging wind gusts to 120 km/h for the Mackay region (within 24 hours) and a storm tide is expected between Townsville and Mackay.
People between Ayr to Sarina, including Mackay, Bowen and the Whitsunday Islands, should take precautions and stay current with the latest advice.
Next Thursday (1 February) sees the opening of Kucom Theatre’s first offering for 2024, a season of one-act plays collectively titled Odd Couples – for a very good reason.
Odd Couples is a trio of one-act plays that take a grown-up look at relationships between men and women - some quirky, some weird or even downright kinky, but all in a richly comic vein:
The Extraordinary Revelations of Orca the Goldfish, by David Tristram
For Henry Smith life was rarely dull. For Alice Smith life was rarely anything else. Enter Michel - French waiter - tall, dark, and available. Exactly what happened next, no-one's quite sure...
Call Centre Call, by Bruce Olive
Henry is just an ordinary man, living on his own and trying unsuccessfully to connect with the world in which he finds himself. After many frustrating and hilarious interactions with automated voice response systems, he is desperate to talk to a real person.
What's For Pudding? by David Tristram
Mary and Jack's dull Saturday evening is interrupted by the arrival of Maureen, Ted and Dennis. The occasion rapidly dissolves into a drunken gathering as Ted's intellect is likened to that of a paper clip, his wife Maureen reveals a liking for Jack, and Jack rapidly cultivates a taste for pouring whisky over his head.
Special Sunday Matinee
On Sunday 4 February Kucom will be staging a special matinee performance of Odd Couples, starting at 2pm.
Relax and enjoy a pleasant Sunday afternoon of live comedy, in an air-conditioned theatre with comfortable seats. Kucom's licensed bar serves soft drinks as well as alcoholic beverages. Our comfortable new seating system even has grab rails in the aisles to enable the less mobile among us to manage the stairs!
Please note that bookings are essential: https://bit.ly/3QTZJ2a.
Men Needed For Upcoming Production!
Auditions were held last Sunday for Kucom’s April production Bob’s Your Auntie. In true community theatre tradition, men were scarce, and director Maureen Coleman is still on the lookout for another one or two males to complete the cast. Some of the male roles are not very big and would be perfect for anyone wanting to try their hand at acting for the first time.
More information is available from Kucom Theatre: admin@ucom.org.au or phone 0439 684 548.
Australia Day at the Palace Hotel & MC’s place
12pm
Crickey! chuck on your best Aussie attire and sharpen your singing skills as you belt out all your favorite Aussie classics. Pluggers and boardshorts are encouraged! From 8pm score a $100 bar voucher just by showing off your best rendition of an Aussie classic. The audience will determine the winner! Will the winner be you?
The Palace Hotel & MC’s Place 82 Victoria St
Australia Day Family Beach Party
12pm
Live music by Significant Other, glitter tattoos, inflatable slides, bubbles and a special Aussie menu… what more could you want for a typical Aussie day! Join the locals at Seabreeze Hotel for a fun packed celebration down under!
Seabreeze Hotel, Slade Point
General Gordon Aussie Party
12pm
All day BBQ, live music and a title of Tug-o-War champion is up for grabs in a battle against Tradies vs Cane farmers! Got good throwing skills? Wonder who can toss the thong the furthest? Only the General Gordon Hotel will know! Join in on the fantastic family day to celebrate the land of the mighty kangaroo!
General Gordon Hotel, Homebush
Elementary Australian Party
5pm
Dust off your tent and throw it in the back of the car! We’re going on a little road trip to Kinchant Dam! Camping from just $12.50 per person/per night, Vans $30 (unpowered). Stay the night at the beautiful, scenic Kinchant Dam and enjoy bangin’ Aussie tunes all night, hosted by the Elementary – Mackay!
Kinchant Dam – Kinchant Waters
Karaoke Celebrations at the Burb
6:30pm
Do you have the voice of an angel? It doesn’t even matter if you don’t! Show off your karaoke skills at the Karaoke Under the Stars Event! You’re in for a joyous family night! Featuring great meals, a supervised kid’s room and an available courtesy bus. Kids are also allowed to join in on the fun!
South Suburban Bowls Club
Karaoke – All weekend!
8pm
Did someone say Karaoke? All weekend? To celebrate Australia day? You guessed it, an all-weekender karaoke event held at McGuires Hotel. Sing along to all the Aussie classics for Australia day! FREE entry! Don’t miss out on a cracking good weekend!
McGuires Hotel, 17 Wood St Mackay
Family Fun Packed Australia Day
11am
Australia day celebrations are nearing with a fun packed day for you and the family! Music, food and activities involved including a jumping castle, waterslide as well as face painting! FREE snags, thong throwing comp and lamington eating comp! Meat tray raffles happening on the day to raise funds for the Cyclone Jasper Far North QLD & SEQ Storm Relief Fund.
Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club
Please note, details were correct at time of printing, please check with organising venues before attending if inclement weather could affect these events.
Carter Entertainment invites you to a night of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty at the MECC this February.
Celebrating the music of one of the world’s most iconic bands– from the songs they wrote, to the songs covered, to the songs they wrote for others. From their album debut in 1968 to their last album in 1972, Creedence Clearwater Revival was a juggernaut of phenomenal proportions. No other band has created such an impact in such a short time.
There's something about Creedence Clearwater’s music that just makes you want to put your arms in the air and sing along. With their rootsy sound and incredible lyrics, CCR has produced some of the most unforgettable songs of all time. Have You Ever Seen the Rain, Fortunate Son and Bad Moon Rising are only a few of their iconic hits.
The Creedence Clearwater Collective brings to the stage a band that captures the unique CCR sound. You do not want to hear through the grapevine that you missed out on this fun, hit-packed live concert.
Join Creedence Clearwater Collective at The MECC on 17 February, a real-life travelling band.
Please note: This is a tribute show.
What: Creedence Clearwater Collective
When: Saturday 17 February 2024, 7.30pm
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
January is shaping up to be a super busy month for Kucom.
AUDITIONS
On Sunday 14 January there will be auditions for the April production, a comedy by Thomas Amo titled Bob’s Your Auntie. Director Maureen Coleman is looking for a cast of nine actors to entertain audiences in this deliciously politically incorrect farce.
Audition packs are available online at https://bit.ly/471B68P.
Season dates will be 11, 12 ,13, 14, 18, 19, 20 April.
ONE-ACT PLAYS
Auditions were held in November for Odd Couples, a season of one-act plays opening on 1 February, and cast members are returning to rehearsals after their Christmas break for an intensive four weeks of preparation.
The season comprises three plays:
The Extraordinary Revelations of Orca the Goldfish, by David Tristram (dir. Hayley Long), featuring Geoff Stewart-McLean and Bronwyn Grannall
Call Centre Call, by Bruce Olive (dir. James Hunter), featuring Michael Brennan, Jaki Pianta and Rebecca Williamson
What’s for Pudding? by David Tristram (dir. Bronwyn Grannall), featuring Pia Larsen, James Hunter, Tessa King, John Irvine and Andrew Deguara
Book online at https://bit.ly/3QTZJ2a and be among the first to enjoy the comfort of Kucom’s new retractable raked seating.
Season dates: 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, 9, 10 February.
For updates on these and other forthcoming Kucom events, please visit the Kucom website, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter:
Phone 0439 684 548
Email admin@kucom.org.au
Website www.kucom.org.au
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/kucomtheatre/
Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/kucom.theatre/?hl=en
Twitter https://twitter.com/kucomtheatre
1 Thomsett family. Photo: Photos by Nell
2 McCallum family, taken at the RSPCA Santa paws fund raising event. Photo: Coffee and Hops
3 Rootes family. Photo: Mad for Media
4 Parter family. Photo: Whitsunday Shopping Centre
5 Sullivan family. Photo: Photos by Nell
6 Smith family. Photo: Mad for Media
7 Fields Family with mum dressed as the Grinch. Photo: Mt Pleasant Shopping Centre
8 Walton family. Photo: Bee Me Photography
9 Batley family. Photo: Mad for Media
10 Vickery family. Photo: Mad for Media
11 Wright family. Photo: Caneland Central
12 Dougan family. The Grove, Los Angeles
Still scratching your head for those last-minute Christmas gifts?
Don't panic! We’ve found some of the season's hottest toys that'll save your holiday shopping in the nick of time!
After nearly 10 years of success, top-rated preschool hit series PAW Patrol has just launched a spin-off series titled Rubble & Crew, streaming on Paramount+.
As a proud member of the PAW Patrol, Rubble has stolen the hearts of preschoolers around the world with his loyal, optimistic nature and penchant for treats. The new series expands Rubble's world with storytelling that digs into amazing construction projects and the importance of family, combined with high-stakes action, fun adventures and messy demolition that preschoolers will love.
Set in the community of Builder Cove, a neighbouring town to PAW Patrol 's Adventure Bay, Rubble & Crew centres on Rubble, the funny and optimistic leader of the construction crew.
In the small, quickly growing town, lots of things are still needed for the community to come together, including a bigger airport, train station, bridges, tunnels, schools, fire stations, parks and more. Rubble and his construction pup family - his pup cousins Mix, Wheeler and Charger - must work together to tackle and build all the projects the town needs.
The new series follows Rubble & Crew as they go on high-stakes adventures. To coincide with the new series and bring the excitement of the PAW Patrol world to life, PAW Patrol has released four new Rubble & Crew toys with life-like construction toys and pup figures; Wheeler’s Dump Truck, Charger’s Crane Grabber Truck, Mix’s Cement Mixer Truck and Rubble’s Bulldozer.
Kids can join Rubble & Crew on their big adventures, recreating their favourite building projects from the show, with their own true-to-life construction vehicles that feature real working wheels, and true to life construction features like movable scoops, rotating mixing drums and extendable crane arms – all the things that kids love.
Sure to be a pre-school favourite, Rubble & Crew’s all new construction vehicles encourage kids to develop construction adventures and ideas of their own, and let children engage in a story that’s grounded in family and community values.
Rubble & Crew Construction Vehicles are $24.99 each and available exclusively at Kmart.
The Bluewater Quay is set to get even bluer thanks to a pair of special visitors this New Year’s Eve.
Smurfette and Papa Smurf will be taking the stage at the Mackay Regional Council New Years Eve River Party.
Families can expect to sing and dance along to a rock’n’roll party from the duo – as long as Papa Smurf can overcome his stage fright.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the Smurfs would be just two of the performers at the expanded River Party.
“This year’s event will be spread across both the Bluewater Quay and River Wharves,” Mayor Williamson said.
“There will be live music and entertainment at both locations – Smurfs, Jonte and Matt Tandy at Bluewater Quay and Kate Lockyer at River Wharves,” he said.
“As always, entry to this family friendly event is free and there will be something for everyone – markets, food vendors, facepainting, amusement rides, fireworks and families can even meet and grab a photo with the Smurfs.”
Festival and Events Coordinator Sarah Porter said the amazing team at Muscle Garden had supported the two fireworks displays this year as naming rights sponsor.
“The Muscle Garden Fireworks will be at 9pm and midnight and will be a great spectacle to welcome in 2024,” Ms Porter said.
“We hope everyone has a fantastic night enjoying some great local music and family entertainment,” she said.
Ms Porter said there would be some very talented local musicians on stage.
“Jonte is known for his unique covers from a range of eras, and his growing collection of really catchy, thoughtful originals.
“Matt Tandy is a blues and roots musician whose songs tell stories and really draw you in with foot-stomping goodness and a dash of humour.
“And Kate Lockyer has an amazing chilled, acoustic vibe that is perfect for kicking back to while you enjoy the selections from the food vendors.
“There will be a lot of fun on offer, so hopefully the only ones feeling blue seeing in 2024 will be the Smurfs.”
Bluewater Quay:
● 6pm – Mayor’s welcome
● 6.05pm - Welcome to Country
● 6.15pm – Kids’ Smurf Show #1
● 6.45pm – Jonte
● 7.15pm – Meet & Greet
● 7.45pm – Matt Tandy
● 8.40pm – Kids’ Smurf Show #2
● 9pm – Muscle Garden Fireworks
● Midnight – Muscle Garden Fireworks
River Wharves:
● 6pm to 9pm – Kids’ face painting
● 6.30pm to 9pm – Kate Lockyer
● ZIFFY'S Ice Cream Truck
Local singers, Jonte and Matt Tandy, will be performing at the Bluewater Quay on New Years Eve, with the Smurfs set to delight children with a special show
Friday 22 December
Friday 5K Run
5:30pm
Join Emmie-Lee Fitness, Rise & Mind Mackay and Mackay Surf Lifesaving Clubbies on a social fun run, jog or walk along the Breakwater and Marina paths.
Meeting beach side of the Surf Club ready to go every Friday arvo @5:30pm.
Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club
The EMO Night Before Xmas
9pm – 3am
Emo / Pop-Punk and Metal playing all night.
Arcadia Bar
Saturday 23 December
Habana Carols Under the Stars
7pm
One of the best outdoor carols in all of Mackay. Bring your chair, blanket, snacks, mozzie repellent, singing voices and friends to have some fun and get into the festive mood.
Santa is sure to make an appearance.
This is a FREE FAMILY EVENT (wheelchair accessible) organised by the Habana & Districts Progress Association. Supported by Mackay Regional Council’s Christmas Grants. Please note, this is a 100% free night, there are no food or market stall vendors onsite.
1091 Mackay Habana Road
Live Music
6pm-10pm
Enjoy live music by local artists in the Garden Bar!
Tonight’s artist is VIVA.
Harrup Park
Xmas Dance Fit Class
Every Saturday from 10am
Inviting everyone as Mad Fitness Mackay hosts a special Christmas DanceFit class which will also be our last class for the year! 8am start!
Wear something Christmas-y and Sheena says she promises there won’t be any Mariah Carey Christmas songs.
For info call Erin at +61 419 357 120
Slade Point Community Hall, Wren St
Disc Golf Xmas Social Round
8:30am
Fun Social Day - 18 Holes
9 Basket Holes
9 Target Holes
2x Lucky Door Prizes will be drawn on the day.
New players welcome - Discs available for hire on the day.
John Breen Park
CHRISTMAS EVE Sunday 24 December
Sarina’s Emergency Services Lolly Drop
5:30pm
We are kicking off the parade at 5.30pm on Christmas Eve!
Listen out for the sirens and music!
As much as we would love to go down every single street, it is not possible for us with all the vehicles. Please visit Sarina Fire Station on Facebook for the route maps.
Sarina
Christmas Eve Family Fun Day
12pm
Come on down to The Seabreeze for the ultimate Christmas Eve Party. Live music by The Feels.
Seabreeze Hotel
CHRISTMAS DAY Monday 25 December
The Last Quarter
Annual No One Eats Alone Christmas Lunch
11am – 1pm
Christmas Day join us for a free lunch with all the trimmings ham, prawns, rolls, salad and dessert and some of your favourite Indian delicacies will be on the menu. We will have a small gift for all who attend!
This year we encourage anyone who would like to donate to either purchase a gift voucher from Cole’s or Woolies so we can make sure those who are struggling can have more than just one meal during the holiday season.
Roshni Indian Restaurant
Thursday 28 December
Free Pop Up Barre Class
9:30am and 4:30pm
Ashley is almost finished her Barre Teacher Training!
As Ash has not quite completed her training she is offering some free classes.
Dec 28 - 9:30-10:10am
Dec 28 - 4:30-5:10pm
Space is limited please do book online through the app.
Tranquil Yoga Mackay, Boddington Street
CASA Christmas Cheer BBQ
10am-12pm
Come down for a snag and a yarn
CASA, 54 Gregory Street
Friday 29 December
Birdlife Monthly Survey
6am-8am
Join Birdlife Mackay with their monthly bird count in the Botanic Gardens. If you are a keen bird watcher or just love birds and keen to find out more, we would love your help!
Meet at the Viewing Deck next to the Café, off Lagoon Street. Bring a hat, water bottle, camera and binoculars (if you have them).
Bird counts are held on the last Friday of each month.
For more information head to: https://birdlife.org.au/groups/birdlife-mackay/
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Saturday 30 December
Live Music
6pm-10pm
Enjoy live music by local artists in the Garden Bar!
Tonight’s artist is Significant Other.
Harrup Park
NEW YEAR’S EVE Sunday 31 December
NYE at Harrup Park
6pm
Come and celebrate the New Year with us at Harrup Park in the Garden Bar!
Our theme this year is Glitz and Glam!
FREE EVENT! Enjoy live music by Mango Junction from 8pm-12am. Capture memorable moments with our photobooth and enjoy food from our in-house smoker. A Guaranteed $3,000 in cash to be given away.
Harrup Park
NYE River Party
6pm – 9pm
Say goodbye to 2023 and kick off the new year with a bang on Sunday, 31 December!
The ever-popular NYE River Party brought to you by the Mackay Regional Council is back from 6pm - 9pm.
There will be non-stop entertainment for the whole family featuring amusement rides, face painting, food vendors, local musicians, as well as two exciting kids performances from special guests!
The NYE River Party will be topped off with the 9pm Muscle Garden fireworks display! Don't forget to head back to Bluewater Quay and River Wharves for the midnight fireworks as we celebrate the start of 2024!
Bluewater Quay and River Wharves
NYE Beach Party
8pm – 5am
Enter the new year with a bang at McGuires Hotel as we host the biggest outdoor NYE party in town.
We're hosting a 'Beach Party' with first 200 people getting lei'd on arrival + a $300 Twerk Comp so bring your cheering squad.
Entry $20 before 10pm
McGuires Hotel
NYE River Party
Habana Carols Under the Stars
Pop Up Barre Class
Birdlife Monthly Survey
Dance Fit Class
Sarina Emergency Services Lolly Drop
Ensure the kids are kept entertained these school holidays, with a host of fun and exciting activities across the region.
Artspace Mackay will be closed Monday, December 4, to early May, 2024 for critical facility maintenance works. Dudley Denny City Library will host Artspace Mackay pop-up during this time. Due to the closure, no school holiday activities will be held.
LIBRARY KIDS CLUB (FIVE TO 12 YEARS)
Until Wednesday, January 31
Sign up for Library Kids Club and keep the kids' reading and entertained over the summer school holidays. The club is suitable for children aged five to 12 years. The club features a reading challenge with prizes up for grabs and events and activities to fill your social calendars.
Register for Library Kids Club and join in the free fun at your local library: http://www.mackay.qld.gov.au/librarykidsclub
Bookings are required for all Library Kids Club activities via Eventbrite.
LIBRARY KIDS CLUB - MOVIE MATINEE
Friday, December 15, 2pm to 4pm, Gordon White Library
Thursday, January 11, 2pm to 4pm, Gordon White Library
Join us for an afternoon movie and popcorn. This event is for children aged five to 12 years old. Want to know what we are watching? Follow us on Facebook to find out. The movie will be announced prior to screening. Bookings required.
LIBRARY KIDS CLUB - CHRISTMAS PUPPETS AND PYJAMAS
Thursday, December 21, 5pm to 6pm
Gordon White Library
Join Ros from Wild Puppets for an evening of family fun. Suitable for children aged two to ten years of age and their families. Limited spots available. Bookings required.
DROP-IN DAYS
Until December 22, 8.30am to 5pm
Mirani, Sarina and Walkerston libraries
Imagine, connect, construct, create, build and design. Children aged five to 12 years are invited to drop in during library open hours to explore and discover our educational construction resources. Follow on Facebook events. No bookings required, drop-in activities.
More school holiday activities to come for January!
Watch this space…
ACTIVE SQUIRTZ MACKAY
Wednesday, December 20, at 9am
Wednesday, January 10, at 9am
Wednesday, January 17, at 9am
River Wharves, River Street
Join in Active Squirtz’s awesome adventures for two- to five-year-olds. The 40-minute sessions are free to attend. Register via their Facebook events.
TIBBLES HUNT
Until December 20, 9am to 4pm
Tropical Shade Garden
Tibbles the friendly garden gnome is adventuring through the Tropical Shade Garden during the holidays. Pick up an activity sheet from the Visitor Information Centre and find all the hidden gnomes to discover the secret festive message. A free activity suitable for kids aged five to 12 years.
Additional self-guided activity resources can be found here: mackayregionalbotanicgardens.com.au
BOARD GAMES AT THE BOTANIC GARDENS
Wednesday, December 20, 11am to noon – Bookings required
Botanic Gardens Meeting Room
Bring the whole family or a couple of friends and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere as you challenge each other to win. Try a classic like Scrabble, Cluedo and Checkers or take the challenge with Stardew Valley, Sushi Go and Bananagrams to name just a few. FREE family friendly activity.
CHRISTMAS CARD CREATIONS WORKSHOP
Tuesday, December 19, 10am to 11am
Botanic Gardens Meeting Room
FREE drop-in activity, suitable for all ages. Create a festive card using found materials and a splash of Christmas colour.
CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS KIDS’ WORKSHOP
Wednesday, December 20, 10am to noon
Botanic Gardens Meeting Room
FREE drop-in activity, suitable for ages five to 12 years. Create a Christmas decoration inspired by the botanic gardens. All materials provided.
FAMILY PICNIC PHOTO COMPETITION
Open all school holidays. Drawn January 19.
What is your favourite family picnic spot in the gardens? Send a photo of your family enjoying a picnic in the gardens to botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au for a chance to win a picnic basket set!
BOCCE WITH A BUDDY
Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, except during Christmas closure period
Malta Garden Bocce Court
Cost: $5 to hire a bocce set
Enjoy a game of bocce with a friend on our sand bocce court. Bocce sets are available to hire from Botanic Gardens Visitor Information Centre or bring your own to play. Please note bocce hire not available from Thursday, December 21, 2023 to Sunday, January 14, 2024.
DBCT KIDS’ THEATRE SEASON – THE BEANIES
Saturday, January 20, 10am and 12.30pm
MECC North Foyer
Join us for this delightful picnic-style performance on comfortable pillows and mats in the North Foyer. The Beanies are sincerely silly. In fact, they’re full-time silliness professionals! But beneath the comedy lies a heartfelt mission to be every child’s BFF and champion their right to be gloriously and unapologetically themselves. Find out more and book!
SPECIAL KIDS TOUR OF THE SARINA SUGAR SHED
10.30am every day of the school holidays, except Christmas Day and Boxing Day
Field of Dreams Parklands, Railway Square, Sarina
Cost: Adult entry at the children’s price of $14,
Bookings are essential: www.sarinasugarshed.com.au
This fun, interactive session focuses on the kids, with the added bonus of adults being welcome at kids' prices! During the 45-minute tour, the kids will discover the growing and harvesting of the sugar cane and complete a hunt for the critters that live in our sugar cane patch. They’ll enter our miniature sugar mill to see how sugar cane is crushed, and sample deliciously sweet sugar cane juice straight from our miniature mill, 'Bill the Mill Junior’.
Special stickers help the kids to understand how the machines work to transform sugar cane juice into sugar – they can touch and feel the different stages of the production from the bagasse to the sugar, to tasting the molasses! They’ll also receive a free information sheet at the end, which is great for school projects, and the quick, fun quiz will help to keep the young ones engaged. They are guaranteed to learn something!
All events run 10am to 2pm
The Sarina Youth Centre will host a range of school holiday drop-in activities for young people aged 10 to 21 years. There are limited spots, so please register to attend by calling 4961 9278 or email sarinayouthcentre@mackay.qld.gov.au
Monday, December 18: Gingerbread making
Tuesday, December 19: First Aid Course (free)
Wednesday, December 20: Christmas community party, Rugby League grounds 11am to 3pm
Thursday, December 21: Christmas lunch
Friday, December 22: CLOSED
Friday 15 December
Mackay Show Association Christmas Mega Markets
Friday Evening 5pm – 8pm
Market & food stalls, special appearance by Santa, ham raffles. |
$2 per person
Mackay Showgrounds
Friday Night Live Music
Every Friday from 5pm
Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.
Boomerang Hotel
Christmas Holiday Kids Crafts
Friday 15 December | 10am – 2pm
Join Santa’s Elves and make your very own Christmas holiday craft at Caneland
Central. No bookings required. | Free entry.
Santa’s workshop (outside Target) | Caneland Central
Saturday 16 December
Mackay Showground Markets
Every Saturday from 6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
2023 Christmas Markets
This Saturday from 8am – 4pm
Mackay Basketball will be hosting its first-ever Christmas markets this December!
Free entry.
McDonalds Mackay Stadium
Falun Gong Classes
Every Saturday from 10am
Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.
You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.
Live Music Saturdays
Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm
Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.
The Kooyong Hotel
Sunday 17 December
Sunday Bingo
Every Sunday from 7pm
Come along and you could win! | Free entry.
South Leagues Club
Monday 18 December
Trivia Night
From 6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!
Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?
Round up your friends and get your geek on!
Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club
Mackay Get It Together – Better Together Housing
10 am – 11.30 am
Better Together Housing is for women over 55 who are considering their housing options for now or in the future and would like to explore more about shared housing.
Greater Whitsunday Communities | 63 Sydney Street, Mackay
Yoga For Youth
From 4.45 pm – Every Monday
Yoga Class exclusively for teens. This class is suitable for beginners through to advanced yoga students and is safe and supportive space for teens to explore the many benefits of yoga, to connect with other teens and more importantly, yourself. BYO yoga mat and water bottle.
Mackay Northern Beaches SHS | $10 Per Student
Trivia Night
From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.
Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.
Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.
Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club
Trivia Night
From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Don’t miss this December’s Christmas Comedy Gala, featuring Queensland’s top comedians for an 18+ night of laughter. Join with your colleagues, friends, or anyone for a grown-up twist on the 12 Days of Christmas.
Headliner Shayne Hunter, known for his smart and hilarious comedy, leads the lineup. Host Anna Brennan and her Drag King alter ego, Bruce Hwy, bring raw and anecdotal storytelling to the stage. Kody Maverick and Max Leishman add fresh, friendly humour to the mix. Expect an unforgettable night of laughter. | Tickets available at tickets.avclive.com.au
The Metropolitan Hotel
Tuesday 19 December
Christmas Card Creation Drop-In Session
10 am - 11 am
Join us to create Christmas cards inspired by nature! This is a free drop in, family
Friendly activity, held in the Botanic Gardens Meeting Room. Suitable for kids of all ages. | Free entry
Mackay Botanic Gardens Meeting Room
Wednesday 20 December
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30 am to 10:30 am
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, 7:00 pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $8 for members and $10 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Christmas Decoration Creation Drop-In Session
10 am – 12 noon
Create a Christmas decoration or two inspired by nature. All materials provided. Free family-friendly activity. | Free entry.
Mackay Botanic Gardens Meeting Room
Thursday 21 December
Mackay Riverside Market
Every Thursday, 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
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
Rusty Kettle Crew Christmas Raffles
6.00 pm
1/2 ham, $100 seafood voucher, loaded meat trays by Goodes Butchers Sarina.
Koumala Hotel
Mackay Christmas Mega Markets
Mackay Showground Market
Christmas Card Creation Drop-In Session
Christmas Holiday Kids Crafts
Christmas Decoration Creation Drop-In Session
Mackay Farmers’ Market
I’ve had that song stuck in my head for a while now!
But really, Hi, it’s me, your old friend!
I’ve been living under a motherhood rock for the past 12 months, but I’ll be back on air on Star 101.9 bright and early in January.
I actually cannot believe we are already talking about January 2024!
Time is flying by.
I feel there is something about saying ‘time is flying by’ that means you’re getting older.
I would have heard my parents and grandparents say ‘time flies’ so many times over the years, yet it’s only in the last few years (clearly a sign I’m getting old) that I’ve truly understood how accurate that saying is, and how precious every day is.
I hope you were able to be present this year, enjoy the little moments, and spend as much time as possible doing things that make you smile.
But if not, I’m sorry, and good news, is there’s a new year right around the corner, so chuck 2023 in the bin and 2024 provides a clean slate to start fresh.
Next year brings a fresh new sound to the ‘who’ you wake up with every morning, and no I’m not talking about your partner sorry! I mean when you flick on your radio there will be a new show to wake up to! I am looking forward to welcoming my new co-host to town, and you can be sure we have got so much planned to give back to anyone that listens.
My top two favourite parts of the job is to have a chat with everyone every morning and to give away as many prizes and cash as the big boss lets me!
In the meantime, from my family to yours, Merry Christmas and see you in the New Year!
Rach
The image of the man, woman and baby in the darkened stable has a powerful hold on people’s imaginations.
Why?
Maybe because so many can identify with someone huddled in darkness, turned away from the inn, apart from family. How many feel displaced, not ‘at home’ in their surroundings? How many suffer the darkness of loneliness, betrayal and rejection? How many dwell in the shadow of illness and grief? How many live, as first-time parents, with self-doubt and anxiety about the future for the family? The material world isn’t always hospitable.
But look closer at the baby: a universal symbol of hope and love.
But there’s more: a light radiating from the baby, and the light casts out darkness which has no power against the light. The light is the sign of God in a human life, re-creating lives. The light radiates not just from human love, but is divine: the eternal power of life, love and grace that seeks to fill wherever there is darkness. This light is not of this world, but it transforms this world.
At Christmas, those who have found the glory of this joy gather to give thanks for, and share, this most wonderful inner peace.
Come and join us and, wherever you are, may you know God’s blessings of joy.
Ven. Dr Rosemary Dunn
Archdeacon of Mission and Ministry and Archdeacon of Mackay
No matter who you are, or where you’re from, you’ve probably heard “Jingle Bells” at least once. Some people love to blast carols in the car as early as November, and others can be less enthusiastic. No matter which side of the fence you sit on, Christmas carols are an iconic celebration of the season that fit perfectly alongside the tree that finds itself a staple in the homes of so many.
Christmas carols have deep roots in cultural and religious traditions. The first carol believed to have been written is nearly 1500 years old. While the nature of the music may have changed, for many the importance of the message remains the same.
One of the most prominent carols that can be heard throughout the festive season is “Silent Night”. The history behind this iconic tune is fascinating, although there are several different opinions on how the carol originated.
The song was originally composed in the early 1800s by Austrian composer Franz Xaver Gruber and the famed lyrics were written by Father Joseph Mohr, a young catholic priest. Silent Night, or as it was then known, “Stille Nacht”, was first performed in a small Austrian parish in Oberndorf on Christmas Eve in 1818. On this fateful night, the young priest brought his writings to Gruber and pleaded with him to compose a melody and guitar accompaniment for them. This was to be done with haste, as river flooding had damaged the church organ, and an alternative was needed for that evening's mass.
The mass went off without a hitch and a new carol was born. From there the acclaimed tune travelled across the globe and was declared an “intangible cultural heritage” by UNESCO in 2011.
The tradition of singing Christmas carols is a multi-faceted celebration of joy, tradition, community, and creativity. These timeless melodies connect us to the past, illuminate the religious significance of the holiday, and foster a sense of togetherness that defines the Christmas spirit.
Christmas is a time to stop work, rest awhile, and turn to God. The good news of Jesus Christ, the Saviour of the world, is a message of great joy for everyone: for you and for me.
This Christmas, find your local church, attend a Christmas service, hear the good news, give your heart to Jesus, and donate to a Christmas appeal.
The Journey to Bethlehem movie is showing in cinemas now. The miracle of the survival of Jesus Christ, the divine Son of God, shows us God’s determination to be with us in life’s struggles. The birth of Jesus Christ is an encouragement to worship the God who ‘became flesh and dwelt among us’ (John 1:14) and to extend a helping hand to the vulnerable people of the world.
People are dying in many war-torn parts of the world. At Christmas time in 1949, the Rev. Frank Byatt, a Methodist Minister, encouraged those gathered around his meal table to give the cost of a Christmas dinner to help those recovering from the Second World War. Each year, through the National Council of Churches, for almost 75 years since then, Christian people raise more than $1.8 million for overseas aid and development. You can give at your local church or online https://christmasbowl.actforpeace.org.au/donate.
Rev. Dr Julia Pitman
St Paul’s Uniting Church
Hot off its sold out 2023 UK Tour, ‘A Taste of Ireland―The Irish Music & Dance Sensation’ returns with a performance that is ‘Celtic―for this decade’. Laugh, cry and jig into the night with a show that has entertained thousands, as A Taste of Ireland returns to Mackay for the first time in 3 years.
Having performed over 300 shows since 2019, ‘A Taste of Ireland’ has merged cultural traditions, modern flair, and craic galore to deliver a performance that has brought the house down night after night. This season, join an acclaimed cast of champion Irish dancers, dazzling musicians, and a contemporary vocalist, as they blend Irish charm with mind-blowing talents to present an unforgettable night of entertainment.
Featuring revamped classics like ‘Danny Boy’ and ‘Tell Me Ma’, the show’s energetic blend of melodic folk music mash-ups, live jaw-dropping acapella tap battles, and heart-warming emotion, transports you through the story of Ireland’s tumultuous history - complemented by stunning production and lighting.
Starring dancers from Lord of the Dance alongside a treasure trove of Irish Dancing Champions, ’A Taste of Ireland’ merges international Irish dance stars with the very best talent in the nation to deliver intricate choreography that is 100% live.
With over one hundred and fifty 5-star Facebook reviews, ‘A Taste of Ireland’ is exactly what it promises: a taste of everything you love about Ireland with a generous helping of more!
Don’t miss your chance to see one of the world’s most prominent Irish dance shows before it takes off around the globe once again! ‘A Taste of Ireland’ returns in 2024, and it’s truly ‘Celtic―for this decade’.
What: A Taste of Ireland
When: 22 June, 2024. 7:30pm
Where: MECC
Tickets: themecc.com.au
Friday 8 December
Churches Together Christmas Lunch
From 12pm to 2pm
All are invited to attend, with Mayor Greg Williamson featuring the launch of the Christmas Bowl Appeal of the National Council of Churches in Australia.
Discussion on the issues the churches are facing especially at Christmas, and the launch of an appeal for a NAYBA social and economic impact survey and report. | $28 per person, kids under 12 eat free!
Bookings essential by 12pm, 1st December at www.trybooking.com/CNDFF
St Paul’s Uniting Church, Macalister Street
Summer Sounds Vol. 1
From 7pm
Get ready to kick off your summer with a bang at the most exciting music event of the season, “Summer Sounds”! A stellar lineup including Systemic Machine, Inside Lane, Viper Syndicate and Giant Palms are ready to drop an incredible night of music to create a night to remember. | Get your tickets at trybooking.com
Arcadia Bar
Friday Night Live Music
Every Friday from 5pm
Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.
Boomerang Hotel
DJ Tikelz
From 9pm
Reggae | R&B | Old School | Dancehall | Island Jamz
If that’s your vibe then this night with special guest DJ TIKELZ is for you! | Ticket available at the door.
The Rabbit Hole
Saturday 9 December
Mackay Showground Markets
Every Saturday from 6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
Special Olympics Mackay Fire Multi Sport Event
Saturday and Sunday from 8:30am
Special Olympics Mackay Fire invites Special Olympics athletes and those athletes with an intellectual disability to have a go at 3on3 basketball, table tennis, bocce and ten pin bowling.
Lock it in your calendar! | Tickets available online.
187 Borgs Rd, Alligator Creek
Falun Gong Classes
Every Saturday from 10am
Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.
You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.
Live Music Saturdays
Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm
Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.
The Kooyong Hotel
Sunday 10 December
Troppo Markets
7.30am to 11.30am
Monthly Event, held on the second Sunday of each month
Mackay’s Troppo Treasure Markets will keep you coming back with a never-ending variety of items for sale and plenty of entertainment and amusements too.
It’s more than just shopping… it turns your Sunday into a fun day.
Come and be a part of this major community event!
Mount Pleasant
The Memorial Swimming Centre Is Turning 60!
Sunday from 11am to 4pm
Jumping castle, merry-go-round and rock climbing wall, as well as a vintage car display, rock and roll dancers and live entertainment from The Two Māori’s. | Free entry.
Milton St, Mackay
Sunday Bingo
Every Sunday from 7pm
Come along and you could win! | Free entry.
South Leagues Club
Monday 11 December
Trivia Night
From 6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!
Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?
Round up your friends and get your geek on!
Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club
Trivia Night
From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.
Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.
Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.
Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club
Tuesday 12 December
Trivia Night
From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Don’t miss this December’s Christmas Comedy Gala, featuring Queensland’s top comedians for an 18+ night of laughter. Join with your colleagues, friends, or anyone for a grown-up twist on the 12 Days of Christmas.
Headliner Shayne Hunter, known for his smart and hilarious comedy, leads the lineup. Host Anna Brennan and her Drag King alter ego, Bruce Hwy, bring raw and anecdotal storytelling to the stage. Kody Maverick and Max Leishman add fresh, friendly humour to the mix. Expect an unforgettable night of laughter. | Tickets available at tickets.avclive.com.au
The Metropolitan Hotel
Wednesday 13 December
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $8 for members and $10 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Thursday 14 December
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
Summer Sounds @ Arcadia Bar
DJ Tikelz @ The Rabbit Hole
Special Olympics Multisport Event
Troppo Markets
Mackay Farmers Market
The Memorial Swimming Centre
The Mackay Bowling Club was the hub for a festive luncheon on 30th November, with 26 residents and carers from BlueCare Mackay Homefield Aged Care Facility attending the club to enjoy a Christmas lunch.
The annual event usually takes place at a local hotel, but this year, no bus was available for transport.
Organisers Mike Irving, John Jorgensen and Brad Robertson banded together to offer the group a suitable place to enjoy their festivities, which is right next door to their living quarters!
A delicious meal and a joyous occasion for all involved. This is the first year this option has been available, and the organisers hope to be able to continue it for Christmas in 2024.
Organisers John Jorgensen (left) and Brad Robertson
Twenty-six residents and carers enjoyed a delicious Christmas meal
Photo credit: Sinead Porter
The team from Artspace Mackay will call the Dudley Denny City Library home over the holiday season, as the gallery undergoes critical facility maintenance works.
The team of curators will set up in the quiet space of the library, allowing them to deliver some fascinating public programs and work on the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection.
Artspace Mackay closed on Monday, December 4, and is anticipated to re-open early May 2024.
This closure will extend to both the gallery and Foodspace Café, with Foodspace relocating to the MECC during the closure period to offer takeaway service only.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Artspace Mackay was a AAA-rated, international standard gallery space that had just celebrated its 20th birthday.
“We need to ensure our regional gallery can maintain that rating and international standard, so we can continue to attract and secure high-profile exhibitions,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Building improvement works will focus on ensuring the internal cooling systems are renewed and in peak condition,” he said.
Artspace Mackay director Tracey Heathwood said during the closure the team were taking the opportunity to deliver their regular programming out in the community.
“We are investigating some alternative venues across the region, especially in rural localities,” Ms Heathwood said.
“The BMA Kidspace, Conversations with Art, Kids Art Club, Art and Memory and Artists’ Book of the Month programs will continue to run and we will update the details and locations of these on our website and social media as soon as possible.”
For more information on the upgrades, public programs or to view the Mackay Regional Council Art Collection online, head to artspacemackay.com.au
A weekly operator at Mackay Farmer’s Market is Venton’s Tropical Blooms, who offer a comprehensive range of heliconias, gingers and tropical foliage to beautify your home or gift on special occasions. Venton’s have an array of banana varieties, including Cavendish, Ducasse and Dwarf Ducasse.
Paw paws, papayas, passionfruit, black sapotes, carambolas, star apples, mangoes, lychees, limes and lemons are also seasonally available, as well as tropical plums, persimmons and a wide variety of avocado trees.
Mackay Music have a range of hot deals this Christmas for all music enthusiasts, including the ever popular Fender Pack. This deal features the Squier Sonic Stratocaster, Squier Frontman 10 watt amp, along with accessories like a padded gig bag, 3 metre cable, strap, and picks priced at $529.
You can also find a range of beautiful music-inspired jewellery and accessories, a perfect gift or stocking stuffer leading into the festive season!
The Rug Gallery proudly stocks a wide selection of rugs, cushions and hides made from top quality leather, supplied by NSW Leather Co. All materials are hypoallergenic, making this the best option for cowhide rugs in Australia.
The Rug Gallery source a range of luxurious cowhide, Mongolian sheepskin, goatskin and reindeer skin rugs in a variety of patterns and colour palettes that are sure to make a bold statement in your home.
Let the Children Play Toyshop don’t only cater to the kids. The storefront stocks a dedicated array of adult board games featuring categories of strategy, logic, spelling, trivia, party and card games.
Explore vintage classics such as Axis and Allies, Sequence and Triominos, as well as modern fan-favourites including Dorfromantik, Azul and Memory Maze.
The storefront also offers deluxe wooden chess sets, bingo roller cages, poker cards and shufflers. Explore The Games Collection catalogue in-store for hot deals in the countdown to Christmas!
Venton’s Tropical Blooms stall at the Mackay Farmers Market
The Fender Pack deal is one you don’t want to miss at Mackay Music
Explore the beauty of hide rugs with The Rug Gallery
Find an extensive collection for adults and children at Let the Children Play Toyshop
Photo credit: Sinead Porter
Last week, approximately 100 stakeholders from the port industry and local community gathered at the Mackay Surf Club to celebrate their collective achievements at the North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) End of Year Stakeholder Event.
This year amongst the achievements was a bumper trade year at the Port of Mackay thanks to strong sugar, grain and fuel trade, strong environmental results and $120,000 donated across NQBP’s port communities.
Thank you to all stakeholders for their support and the commitment of NQBP’s people, port partners, customers, and port communities.
As a Queensland Government-owned port authority, NQBP is responsible for the ports of Mackay, Abbot Point, Hay Point, and Weipa in far north Queensland.
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb, Mackay Isaac Tourism’s Andrea Davis, Wisely Group’s Chris Bugeja
NQBP Board Chair Jane McTaggart, NQBP Board Director Jorgen Gullestrup and NQBP Board Director Lynn Smart
AECOM’s Bart Wassink and NQBP Board Director Paul Heagney
NQBP Board Director Monica McKendry and Mackay Regional Council Cr Fran Mann
Auriga Group’s Keith Thompson and NQBP’s Darren Brownsey
NQBP’s Kevin Kane and Mackay and Whitsunday Life’s Zach Thomas and Jessica Clark
Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Cr Karen May, Greater Whitsunday Alliance’s Kylie Porter and Greater Whitsunday Communities Antoinette du Toit
Vassallo Constructions’ Jared Vassallo and Marcus Fossey with NQBP’s Kingo Gan and Hossein Saadai
NQBP CEO Brendan Webb welcomes guests
Yuwi representative Uncle Philip Kemp provided a Welcome to Country
The Jubilee Community Centre is buzzing with excitement as it hosts a series of vibrant celebrations to mark the International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD) this week and the next. Under the theme "Working Together for a Fairer World," this year's IDPwD aims to create a more inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.
Organised by the Bee Creativezzz team and backed by council support, a spectrum of engaging workshops and activities are captivating participants at the Jubilee Community Centre. Councillors Bonaventura, Jones and Green joined in on the fun of a drumming workshop.
The festivities don't end here! Next week, a delightful array of bee-themed craft activities is set to enchant visitors of all ages. Everyone is invited to partake in these imaginative sessions, embracing the spirit of creativity and inclusivity.
For those eager to be a part of these upcoming events or seeking more information, feel free to reach out to Fiona Vuibeqa at fiona.vuibeqa@mackay.qld.gov.au. Be part of this heartwarming celebration and contribute to fostering a more diverse and inclusive world for everyone.
Songs, poem readings, drum workshops and arts and crafts have been part of the fun so far celebrating International Day of People with Disability
Beam e-scooter riders can now spread their wings and ride further into Andergrove and Beaconsfield as part of an extension of the boundary area.
Initially, 50 of the purple e-scooters were available for hire only within the Beaconsfield and Andergrove area, aiding transport within the two suburbs for work, errands and leisure.
But, due to high demand, the area has now been connected to Beam’s existing operational area within the Mackay City Centre.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the expansion was a fantastic opportunity for northside residents.
“Riders in those two suburbs have certainly embraced it, with more than 5000 kilometres ridden on the 50 e-scooters since they were introduced there back in August,” Mayor Williamson said.
“And the statistics are showing us that e-scooter usage in Beaconsfield and Andergrove is highest from 3pm to 5pm throughout the week, and from 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays,” he said.
“Council’s partnership with Beam to introduce the e-scooters has certainly been a huge success and we look forward to continuing to work with them to advantage our residents.”
Beam’s Mackay Operations Manager, Cameron Milicevic, said with safety front of mind, Beam was pleased to launch a Summer Smart campaign in time for the holiday season.
“This safety campaign aims to support safe riding and is running digitally and in-app,” Mr Milicevic said.
“Trips over the summer holiday months can increase by about 20 to 30 per cent, with our Summer Smart campaign designed to remind riders of the smart way to ride and to ensure the riding rules remain front of mind,” he said.
“The vast majority of riders are doing the right thing, and we're pleased to see riders engaging with our Beam Safe Academy and following the rules.
“However, our three-strikes policy is in place and riders face suspension and permanent bans for bad riding and parking offences.
“We want riders to know that riding and parking safely is their responsibility, and that our team are out there enforcing the rules.”
The campaign focuses on the key riding rules:
● It’s illegal to drink and ride.
● A helmet is included with every Beam ride and must be worn on every trip.
● Put your phone away while riding – just like when driving a car, it’s illegal to use your phone whilst riding an e-scooter.
● No tandem riding – stick to one person on an e-scooter.
● Park responsibly, with your e-scooter parked kerbside.
E-scooter use continues to grow in popularity in Mackay, with over 500,000 kilometres ridden across the city to date, and the average rider riding for just over 11 minutes.
2023’s top e-scooter destinations include Bluewater Quay, Mackay Harbour and the City Centre.
Friday 1 December
Friday Night Live Music
Every Friday from 5pm
Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.
Boomerang Hotel
Morning Melodies – Christmas with Karen Knowles
From 11am
Well known for her Carols and Christmas repertoire, Karen performs regularly with her musical director accompanying her on piano.
Join Karen for a wonderful selection of her hits, standards and your favourite Christmas songs as her music moves you into the true Spirit of Christmas. | Tickets available at themecc.com.au
Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre (MECC)
City Heart Christmas
From 4pm to 8pm
The City Heart will come alive with Christmas celebrations!
Fifth Lane will brighten the city with markets, live music, face painting, roving performers, scavenger hunt, kids activities and more.
Enjoy late night shopping and Santa will be in town. Great fun for all the family. | Free entry.
Fifth Lane
Kickstart Your Christmas
Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 7pm to 11pm
Join in for a weekend full of festive fun with three fantastic events!
FRIDAY
Christmas Karaoke Competition with Hyphen Entertainment!
Win complimentary tickets to 3 ticketed events at Seabreeze – just enter the Karaoke competition for a chance to win this grand prize! Register from 6:30pm for a 7pm kick-off. Come to impress as the winner will be chosen by the crowd response! Plus extra giveaways.
SATURDAY
Naughty or Nice Night dress-up party with The Feels!
$100 cash prize to be won for the best-dressed competition. Come along in your best Naughty or Nice themed attire!
Live music will be playing from 7pm to 11pm.
SUNDAY
Unwind from an incredible weekend with the Silly Season Sunday Session!
Presenting some of Mackay’s best solo singers & songwriters, the line-up will be performing a mix of original and covers.
Live music from 12pm to 6pm.
Seabreeze Hotel
Saturday 2 December
Mackay Showground Markets
Every Saturday from 6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
Falun Gong Classes
Every Saturday from 10am
Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.
You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.
Leisa Payne School of Dance Presents ‘Take A Bow’
From 2pm
The incredible LP dancers are proud to present a celebration of 2023 and are excited to showcase their outstanding success in all genres of dance.
Be captivated by the array of talent from 2yrs to Pre Professional in this nonstop dance extravaganza. | Tickets available at themecc.com.au
Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre (MECC)
Live Music Saturdays
Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm
Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.
The Kooyong Hotel
Carols in the Gardens
From 4:30pm
Carols in the Gardens is back for 2023 thanks to Glencore and Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens.
An afternoon jam packed with free family fun activities with Carols kicking off at 6pm!
Come down at 4.30pm to secure your spots & for the kids to enjoy the free rides.
There is also plenty of food vendors to grab a bite to eat! | Free entry.
Meadowlands Amphitheatre - Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Bandeoke – A Live Karaoke Experience
From 9pm
Ever Wanted to be the Star of your own show?
Bandeoke – Rockstar Experience offers karaoke entertainment in front of a full rock band.
And for one night we are bringing you the full experience with a live band.
Free Cowboy hat from our sponsors for the first 120 people in the door. | Tickets available at eventbrite.com.au
Arcadia Bar
Sunday 3 December
Sunday Bingo
Every Sunday from 7pm
Come along and you could win! | Free entry.
South Leagues Club
Monday 4 December
Christmas Hoy and Mini Cent Sale | QCWA Calen
From 9:30am
Morning tea, games, mini cent sale, prize for the best Christmas decoration.
$7 entry – For more information, call Kerry on 0427 083 164
120 McIntyre Street, Calen
Santa Visits Harrup Park
From 5pm – 7pm – 4th, 11th and 18th December
Prepare for Christmas! Join in for a festive treat – a complimentary family photo session with Santa Claus.
Santa will be waiting in the Lancaster Rooms. We can’t wait to see you there! | Free family photos available
Harrup Park
Centre Stage Dancy Company Presents ‘That’s Entertainment 2023’
From 6pm Monday and Tuesday
Centre Stage Dance Company presents "That's Entertainment 2023" featuring dancers from 2 - 18 years.
The first half is a celebration of 20 years of Centre Stage with lots of walks down memory lane and a huge variety of music and costumes.
The second half features a smorgasbord of dance routines in jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary, ballet, cabaret and showgirl.
This show is for all ages and is only group routines, no solos. | Tickets available at themecc.com.au
Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre (MECC)
Trivia Night
From 6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!
Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?
Round up your friends and get your geek on!
Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club
Trivia Night
From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.
Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.
Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.
Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club
Tuesday 5 December
Trivia Night
From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Don’t miss this December’s Christmas Comedy Gala, featuring Queensland’s top comedians for an 18+ night of laughter. Join with your colleagues, friends, or anyone for a grown-up twist on the 12 Days of Christmas.
Headliner Shayne Hunter, known for his smart and hilarious comedy, leads the lineup. Host Anna Brennan and her Drag King alter ego, Bruce Hwy, bring raw and anecdotal storytelling to the stage. Kody Maverick and Max Leishman add fresh, friendly humour to the mix. Expect an unforgettable night of laughter. | Tickets available at tickets.avclive.com.au
The Metropolitan Hotel
Wednesday 6 December
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
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $8 for members and $10 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Thursday 7 December
The Wiggles WIGGLY BIG DAY OUT! Tour
3 Performances - 10am, 12.30pm & 2.30pm
A spectacular live show for the whole family!
The world’s most popular children’s entertainment group, The Wiggles! Are bringing their ARIA award winning live show back for their annual arena tour as they embark on their biggest & brightest show yet!
Get ready for a carnival of fun in a day filled with music, dancing and laughter in this extraordinary live show, guaranteed to bring joy to audiences across the country, leaving the whole family with smiles from ear-to-ear! | Tickets available at themecc.com.au
Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre (MECC)
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
Christmas with Karen Knowles
Kickstart Your Christmas
City Heart Christmas
Christmas Hoy & Mini Cent Sale
Carols in the Gardens
Santa Visits Harrup Park
Kicking off on 2nd December, the Bob Wood Cultural Hall Park is set to host a community Christmas fair celebration in the leadup to the festive season, alongside a music festival and a special, artist-created light show.
The Christmas fair will take place in the park outside the Bob Wood Cultural Hall from 2pm to 5pm, with eventgoers set to be delighted with jumping castles, face painting, balloon twisting, disco and kids karaoke, as well as a visit from Santa. These activities will be coupled by Christmas gift markets featuring local wares.
Deputy Mayor Karen May stated that the fair would have a huge range of family activities.
“Everything is free, and we even have prizes for the best Christmas dress ups, so make sure you wear your colourful festive outfits,” she said.
Following the Christmas celebration, the Festival of Small Halls will kick off in the Bob Wood Cultural Hall from 5.30pm.
Taking the stage until 8pm are internationally-acclaimed Scottish trio Assynt, as well as Queensland’s Jackie Marshall and local singer/songwriter Jezzie.
Cr May said it was great to have the Scottish trio in Sarina. “The audience can expect a rousing performance with award-winning musicians bringing highland music to life in a contemporary way,” she said.
The Sarina Lions club will be running a non-profit bar and catering at the event, including tea/coffee, soft drinks, water and beer.
Sarina Neighbourhood Centre has engaged artists Donna Maree Robinson and Lalune Croker to deliver a magical Christmas light show on display from 6:30pm to 9:30pm, using the big tree on the corner of Anzac and Broad Streets as a canvas.
Bob Wood Cultural Hall has accessible entry with a ramp access and bathrooms. Tickets are available at Sarina Neighbourhood Centre and are only $10 for adults. Children under 18, pensioners and concession card holders are free.
The creative talents of Donna Maree Robinson and Lalune Croker will deliver a magical Christmas light show
Photo supplied
The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) is excited to host the first Morning Melodies performance in six months, featuring Christmas with Karen Knowles starting at 11am this morning, Friday 1st December.
Morning Melodies is known locally as an affordable day of entertainment, with tickets including a small morning tea and the opportunity to share in over twenty lucky door prize giveaways.
Proudly sponsored by The Friends of the MECC, their President Kerry Bonaventura said the final Morning Melodies performance for the year would be one to remember.
“We have some market stalls for everyone to do a little bit of Christmas shopping, and the Friends of the MECC have organised Lion’s Christmas Cakes for everyone to enjoy with their cuppa” she said.
Attendees will be treated to entertainment by Young Talent Time’s, Karen Knowles, who will be performing a range of Christmas carols alongside a wonderful selection of hit music.
Commencing her performance career on Young Talent Time, Karen Knowles’ career spans over 40 years. In 1980 she became the first Australian schoolgirl to receive a gold record with her single ‘Why Won’t You Explain’.
Guests who are interested in completing their Christmas shopping while at the event will be glad to hear Let the Children Play Toyshop and Whitsunday Biscuit Factory will be in the market stall line-up.
With tickets starting at just $15 each, the Friends of the MECC’s Morning Melodies is an affordable festive celebration for Mackay locals.
Tickets are selling fast! Find yours at themecc.com.au
Teagan Smith and Kelsey Hughes gear up for Morning Melodies
Photo supplied
The folk event of summer is arriving in to town, checking into Sarina for one night of mammoth music, that will leave the soul replenished and recharged.
The Summer rendition of the Festival of Small Halls is back and featuring headlining acts Assynt and Jackie Marshall, with the evening expected to be music for the soul.
Jackie Marshall is a folk singer-songwriter, with her inspirations stemming from 60s and 70s and western folk and country, jazz, and improvisation. Full of energy and warmth, the audience will be swept away with her fantastic stage presence and gentle atmosphere.
“It's a huge pleasure to be heading out on the road for Small Halls,” said Jackie. “I love being in motion, soaking up the colours of this beautiful country, meeting new people with fascinating stories, and experiencing the joy of performing to intimate audiences in venues rich with the feeling of personal connection. I feel incredibly fortunate to be involved.”
Assynt are Scotland’s own award-winning instrumental folk band, passionately known for their tight-knit fiddle and pipe playing combination.
Itching to present their tunes to audiences across Australia, Assynt noted "We have been looking forward to touring Australia as part of the Small Halls tour for over four years now! A little later than planned due to the pandemic, we are excited to showcase our Scottish music for the Australian audiences and experience the culture in Queensland and Victoria!"
The Festival is proudly supporting the Sarina Lions, who will host a selection of meals, with tea and coffee, softs and light beer for attendees.
WHAT: Festival of Small Halls
WHERE: Bob Wood Cultural Hall
WHEN: Saturday December 2, from 5pm
TICKETS: festivalofsmallhalls.com starting from $10
Festival of Small Halls is the event of the summer. Image supplied
The Seaforth Markets are a community-based event that occur every Sunday from 8am to 12:30pm, supplying organic and gourmet produce, fresh fruit and vegetables and an array of quality products from local artisans.
The Markets are run by the Seaforth Progress Association, with funds also recycling back into the community, by allowing stalls from organisations such as RACQ CQ Rescue, Country Women’s Association, local schools and sporting clubs to participate.
The Seaforth Progress Association have been in operation since 1956. President of the Seaforth Market Association Lyn Prince wakes up at 5am to prepare the markets every Sunday for business as usual, with a growing list of stalls operating each week.
Lyn stated, “On the actual day before the markets, I will go over and sit underneath the trees, making sure I've got some spaces because each market we're getting at least another ten stores.”
The market hosts a book stall for locals and tourists to enjoy updated reading materials, as well as a line of food trucks overlooking the esplanade to cater the event.
On 10th December, Christmas will come alive at the Seaforth Markets! A visit from Santa’s elves, a Ham Wheel and raffles will be on the agenda, with stallholders and storefronts dressed in their finest festive attire.
Travellers come from all over, including locals from Yeppoon, Townsville and Bowen to be a part of the Seaforth Markets, to experience a flourishing community event with a tight-knit camaraderie.
Lyn is passionate about the familial atmosphere that has been created for marketgoers and stallholders alike, as well as the growth of Seaforth itself, without seeing it become urbanised.
She stated, “There's nowhere I've travelled, where you can do what we can do here.
“I just love the fact that we've grown and that people, especially [during] Covid, found something that they were passionate about and continued on with it.
“We have a place where they can come and feel comfortable and sell what they make, and that is a therapy, you can't buy that.”
Interested volunteers, businesses and organisations who would like to be involved with the Seaforth Markets can contact Seaforth Progress Assoc. on Facebook, or call Lyn Prince directly on 0437 533 007 for more information.
WHAT: Seaforth Christmas Markets
WHERE: Seaforth Esplanade
WHEN: Sunday, 10 December
Inspire your green thumb every Sunday
Enjoy a selection of local spreads and baked goods
Organisations such as State Emergency Services (SES) often join the Seaforth Markets
Photos supplied
Whether you're embarking on a musical journey as a novice, searching for your dream instrument as a seasoned professional, or in need of comprehensive event gear, Mackay Music stands as the reliable choice committed to meeting all your musical needs.
With a legacy of twenty-four years in the business, Owner Kelly Cacciola and her team have made Mackay Music a go-to destination for musicians of all ages and skill levels.
The team at Mackay Music boasts a range of expertise, catering to everyone from little kids eager to play the ukulele to school students mastering brass and woodwind instruments, and teenagers ready to rock out with their first electric guitars.
Christmas is a bustling time for the store that offers an extensive range of items from guitars, amps, violins, keyboards, and pianos to harmonicas and percussion instruments, including electronic drum kits.
Kelly stated, “Everyone has different needs and that’s what we’re here for, for them to come in and find what’s best for them.
“They might like the look of something, but it might not really be what’s best for the style of music they’re playing.” You can’t get the ‘hands on’ experience from looking online, you need to come in to feel and play the instrument.
As the holiday season approaches, Mackay Music is offering enticing deals that are sure to strike a chord with music enthusiasts. One popular offer is the Fender Pack, featuring the Squier Sonic Stratocaster, Squier Frontman 10 watt amp, along with accessories like a padded gig bag, 3 metre cable, strap, and picks priced at $529.
The Tanglewood Reunion electric/acoustic guitar is available at a discounted price of $349, a significant $150 in savings.
The mahogany Tanglewood Auld Trinity is another attractive option, now retailing at $399 down from $599. Additionally, the Tanglewood concert-size mahogany ukulele is on sale at $129, marked down from $179.
Mackay Music also offers low-cost shipping, ensuring that customers can access a wide range of instruments and equipment regardless of location. The convenience extends to both online and in-store support, as well as services like guitar and violin restringing and repairs.
To explore Mackay Music's full catalogue, visit their website at www.mackaymusic.com.au or drop by their store at 28 Sydney Street.
The infamous wall of electric and acoustic guitars at Mackay Music
Pianos, brass and woodwind instruments galore
Bongo drums are a quirky gift idea this Christmas
Photo credit: Sinead Porter
Every Wednesday morning from 6:30am to 10:30am, Mackay comes alive with the Mackay Farmers' Market Inc. at the picturesque Bluewater Quay.
Two years ago, stall holders started the incorporation to continue offering Mackay locals a chance to experience the midweek market. This is your go-to destination for all things fresh and locally sourced, with an abundant array of quality produce and products.
Start your morning right, with a cup of coffee in hand and a choice of delicious foods including dumplings, pies and sausage rolls.
You can explore stalls boasting a wide variety of goods, from fresh milk to artisan sourdough bread, eggs, pure honey, farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, tea and rich coffee blends, a selection of premium meats, pet treats, smoked smallgoods, olive oils, vibrant tropical flowers and plants and eco-friendly beeswax wraps– the Mackay Farmers Market has got it all!
What makes the Mackay Farmers' Market special is their commitment to sustainable living and supporting local growers. By choosing to shop local, you're not only getting the freshest produce but also contributing to the growth of the Mackay community.
Available products are advertised on social media leading up to the event, with produce sourced within a two-hundred kilometre radius of Mackay. Offerings straight from the grower assists in cutting out the big corporations.
Marketing Manager Loren Vanzella is passionate about her community and local produce, stating: “We are very grateful to our loyal customers for their ongoing support.
“The response to our challenges has been overwhelmingly positive and it’s wonderful to know that what we do makes a difference to so many.”
Some of the stalls welcomed by the market include but are not limited to the Mount Jukes Family Farm, Shore Fresh Seafoods, Venton’s Tropical Blooms, Zelenka Farms and many more.
Don't forget to bring your reusable bags – the market strives for an eco-conscious shopping experience.
Join the flourishing community every Wednesday at the Mackay Farmers Market, to indulge in the joy of shopping fresh, local, and midweek with quality and variety nestled against a beautiful backdrop at Bluewater Quay.
Visit Mackay Farmers’ Market on Facebook or Instagram for the latest information.
Pure n' Natural Honey
Eungelladale Milk
Zelenka Farms
Vintage Farmhouse Kitchen
Photo credit: Sinead Porter
The Paxton’s Portrait Prize is in its’ ninth year, this year introducing the Pet Portrait category with entries from talented artists from around the Mackay region.
The event is the brainchild of Lynn Robson and Melissa Larsen, both realising there was really no way for children and students to be able to exhibit their artwork in a local exhibition. This event provides a platform for young artists to show off their creative talents.
The event is themed around the Archibald Prize, with conditions that artworks must be a portrait of someone from Mackay, alive or deceased. It also has to have been created within the past twelve months, using any medium of choice.
The Paxton’s Portrait Prize is all ages inclusive, with Primary School, Secondary School and Open categories. Pieces are hung up on display, with a host of judges to decide the winners.
Teacher and Event Founder Melissa Larsen stated, “Seeing the wonderful community come together and support it, it's just fantastic”.
“People make an effort every year to go and create a work to go into it. The wonderful camaraderie of our Mackay community that gets behind all of this, it's really wonderful to see.”
Councillor Michelle Green had the pleasure of participating in the Paxton’s Portrait Prize as an esteemed judge this year. Michelle commented, “This is where you learn the ropes, and you get a direction to follow your passion.
“If it helps these little creatives go on to be larger creatives and into careers with that creative talent, I think that's what's so amazing about it.”
This year, the event has been held at the Jubilee Community Centre instead of its’ usual location at Paxton’s Warehouse which has enabled the exhibition to stay open for two weeks running until 24th November.
A highlight for the local community is the People’s Choice award for each category, where locals can visit the exhibition and pick their favourite piece.
Congratulations to all of the entrants and winners this year, who are fostering a brilliant array of talent in the local art scene for Mackay.
The Jubilee Community Centre came alive on judging day for the Paxton’s Portrait Prize
Photo supplied
Sophie Clayton 'On the Surface' Winner of Secondary School category
Ashley Holmes ‘Reading of Prayer’ Winner of Open category
Ryan Masendu ‘Self Portrait’ Winner of Primary School category
Annie Usher ‘Calling Home’ Highly Commended Open category
Photo Credit: Councillor Michelle Green
Friday 24 November
Friday Night Live Music
Every Friday from 5pm
Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.
Boomerang Hotel
The Radiators (Live)
From 8pm
Get ready to immerse yourself in an unforgettable night of classic hits, high-energy performances, and pure rock ‘n’ roll magic as The Radiators take the stage. | Tickets available at oztix.com.au
Seabreeze Hotel
Mackay Twilight Market
From 5pm to 8:30pm and Saturday 4pm to 8:30pm
Join us in the big shed for a festive evening of merriment with your loved ones. Shop for unique holiday gifts from the many charming market stalls, ran by small local businesses. | $2 adult entry - children under 17 years free of charge.
Mackay Showgrounds
Saturday 25 November
Mackay Showground Markets
Every Saturday from 6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
Falun Gong Classes
Every Saturday from 10am
Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace, and health through movement.
You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.
Live Music Saturdays
Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm
Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.
The Kooyong Hotel
The Wild Sky (Live)
From 6pm
Enjoy good tunes and great vibes. Come along for a great night! | Free entry.
Harrup Park
Sunday 26 November
Laura Frank (Live)
From 3pm to 7pm
Join an unforgettable live performance by talented musician, singer-songwriter, and DIY enthusiast who is known for her chart-topping singles and captivating stage presence. | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Sunday Bingo
Every Sunday from 7pm
Come along and you could win! | Free entry.
South Leagues Club
Monday 27 November
Full Moon Circle – Breathwork and Meditation
From 5:45pm to 7:30pm
Put down what you are carrying this Full Moon.
Connect with like-minded others in a supportive circle. We will move through a progression of breath work, some gentle movement, sound healing and meditation.
This circle is for you if you are craving more harmony in your life, would like dive deeper into meditation and connect with your breath and body.
Tea and nibbles will be provided. | Tickets at trybooking.com
Mackay CWA Hall
Trivia Night
From 6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!
Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?
Round up your friends and get your geek on!
Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club
Trivia Night
From 7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.
Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.
Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.
Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club
Tuesday 28 November
Baby Bounce
From 9:30am to 10am
The session features nursery rhymes, finger plays and songs. It's never too early to talk, read and tell stories with your child.
Please bring a small blanket for your child. | Free ticketed event, find yours at eventbrite.com.au
Sarina Library
Book Chat for Teens
From 3:30pm to 4:30pm
Drop in and tell us what you like, what you don’t like, what you’re reading, what you have read, what you would like to read.
Chat to others about your best (and worst) reading experiences. For young adults aged 12 to 18 years. | Free ticketed event, find yours at eventbrite.com.au
Gordon White Library
Wednesday 29 November
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $8 for members and $10 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Thursday 30 November
Mackay Riverside Market
Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm
Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.
Bluewater Quay
The emotional, human side of selling real estate is what makes it interesting, brings value to what we do. It is an important time for people and, as agents, we get to know and help buyers and sellers at a significant point in their lives.
And you get to know all sorts of people; the good, the bad, the powerful, the wounded, the clever, the fastidious, the generous, the not-so generous, the hard-working, the rich, the battlers … and that was just the buyers and sellers of the first house I ever sold. Not really, but you get what I mean.
A few years ago I sold a unit to a lady called Susan Nitz. Susan worked at Coles in Sydney Street and had saved hard to be able to buy her first home, a nice little two-bedroom unit.
Susan was single, in her 50s and lived a simple life; she enjoyed music, loved her cat, had a close and loving bond with her mother and had warm friendships with the customers and colleagues she knew at Coles.
She was a gentle, kind soul who saw the best in everyone and loved to help them. I really enjoyed selling her the property because it was so important to her and she was such a nice person. She had lots of questions and concerns and I was pleased to ease her through it all and hand over the keys to a delighted buyer.
A couple of years later Susan became ill and, sadly, died earlier this year. She was brave and stoic and didn’t tell people what she was going through. Even her mother, Ethel, didn’t know about her illness until its late stages.
Her passing hit Ethel hard. The two of them shared a bond, partly through their love of country music, and had lived together for years. A mother shouldn’t have to bury her daughter. It rips your heart out.
It was left to Ethel to look after Susan’s affairs and a couple of months after she passed away Ethel rang me and asked me to sell the unit I had sold to Susan.
So, I got to know Ethel over the past few months, dropping around to get her to sign listing documents, disclosure statements, contracts and the like. Talking about her life, Susan, the terrible loss and the beautiful memories.
There was a lot of interest in the unit and I sold it to a young woman in her early 20s called Katie. Katie is a warm, energetic, hard-working, optimistic soul from a supportive local family who knew Susan and remember her fondly from shopping at Coles.
Somehow it seems so much better that Katie bought Susan’s unit rather than some investor from down south who needed a positively geared rental to balance out their portfolio of shares and property.
You might think that selling real estate is only about bricks and mortar and money. You would be wrong.
We’ve officially gotten to the time of the year where it’s socially acceptable to get excited for Christmas. With that, Star and Mackay Women’s Services officially launched the 2023 Hamper Drive!
The Hamper Drive will officially run until Friday December 8th, and we are asking businesses, schools and individuals to donate hampers to the Mackay Women's Centre. These can be gathered in a box or washing basket and can include non-perishable food and Christmas gifts or other similar style items.
If you’re in need of some hamper filler ideas I’ve done the hard work for you:
• Milk
• Pasta and pasta sauce
• 2 Min Noodles
• Biscuits
• Christmas Bon Bons
• Custard
• Jelly
• Pudding or Cake
• Tin Fruit
• Tuna
• Taco Kit
• Lollies
• Crisps
• Tea and Sugar
• Tinned Veggies
Also, any toy donations will go to children of all ages. Toys or gifts for a variety of ages would be suitable, as would gifts for the mother of these families. Vouchers for movies, Timezone or even the grocery store would be greatly appreciated.
Any hamper donations you collect you can drop directly to the Mackay Women's Services at 418A Shakespeare St, West Mackay. Or get in touch with us at Star to see what we may be able to arrange.
Kaley
Award-winning films will illuminate Mackay’s big screen from 17th to 19th November. Prepare for an extraordinary cinematic experience BCC Mount Pleasant, with a selection of highly-acclaimed new films from across the world.
The Travelling Film Festival (TFF) is the touring arm of the Sydney Film Festival and began in 1974, bringing assorted genres to regional and rural locations that would not ordinarily get to see them.
This year’s Opening Night film is Sundance Audience Award-winner ‘Shayda’, a stirring and inspiring drama about an Iranian migrant battling the legal system to protect her 6-year-old daughter in Australia.
‘Anatomy of a Fall’ is a must-see inclusion, winning the Sydney Film Festival Audience Award in 2023 as well as the 2023 Cannes Palme d’Or. This tense psychological drama sees an author accused of murdering her husband.
Winning over 30 international awards is semi-autobiographical drama ‘Riceboy Sleeps’, a warm, endearing, shot-on-16mm treasure about a Korean mother and son’s migrant experience in Canada.
Just awarded Best Film of 2023 by the International Film Critics Federation, is ‘Fallen Leaves’. The story features a lonely supermarket worker and an even lonelier metalworker creating a delightfully deadpan courtship.
‘Perfect Days’ has been earning smiles and swelling hearts, with classic rock tunes from the likes of Van Morrison and Prince permeating this poetic reflection on the beauty to be found in the everyday, from renowned filmmaker Wim Wenders (Wings of Desire).
Berlinale-nominated ‘Blackberry’ puts the invention of the first smartphone and the rise of “tech bros” under a savagely funny microscope, resulting in a boisterous and dramatic tale for our time.
Three Australian short films accompany the program, including dark comedy ‘Chum’, a story about a blind woman who bonds with a stranger; but all is not as it seems.
‘Katele’ is spoken in English and Kala Kawa Ya and is set across a Far North Queensland and Torres Strait Island backdrop.
Animated story ‘Teacups’, based on the true story of Don Ritchie, who’s calm and comforting intervention saved many lives near his cliff-top home and is narrated by Hugo Weaving.
Manager of Travelling Film Festival Annie Parnell stated, “We are delighted to be returning to the region, which has hosted the Travelling Film Festival for some years, to showcase this special program of award-winning features and short films.
“There are stories from around the world, with gripping drama and laugh-out-loud comedy that we are sure will please the Mackay cinema-goers, both returning and new!”
Tickets to the Travelling Film Festival Mackay are now on sale at sff.org.au/tff/program/mackay
'Anatomy of a Fall' movie poster
'Fallen Leaves' movie poster
The first Mackay Hospital Foundation Cinema Under the Stars is coming to Sarina this weekend and is bringing the Christmas spirit!
With gates opening from 4pm, families will be greeted with all sorts of children’s activities, from jumping castles, face painting, market stalls, as well as tonnes of food vendors, and of course, Santa Claus.
And the headlining movie is the family favourite Elf, starring Will Farrell.
Mackay Hospital Foundation General Manager, Kristi Algate said, “The Cinema Under the Stars movie nights have been regular events in Mackay for quite some time but this will be our first Cinema Under the Stars in Sarina. Entry is very cost-effective at $5 per person or $20 per family. All proceeds raised at the event will be directed back to Sarina Hospital so the Sarina Community can rest assured that they will be the ultimate beneficiaries of this event when visiting Sarina Hospital.”
There will also be the chance to win a VIP experience for the night, which includes a personal covered area, an inflatable lounge and food vouchers to ensure no one is left hungry.
Ms Algate added, “We are so pleased to be able to bring this event to Sarina. We hope to see many people throughout the local community taking advantage of this event with a difference and share in some early Christmas Spirit with us.”
WHAT: Cinema Under The Stars, Sarina
WHERE: Sarina Showgrounds
WHEN: Saturday November 18, from 4pm
Travel lovers from across the region are invited to come along to a special trivia night held at Harrup Park next Thursday, 23 November. Not only will attendees enjoy a fun and lively trivia evening, they will also get to meet 20 travel partners who will be on-hand to answer questions about a range of travel destinations. There will also be a selection of Black Friday deals up for grabs.
For one night only, 20 travel experts representing exciting travel brands, will be visiting Mackay and ready to talk to attendees at the Trivia By Travel Associates event next Thursday.
This is your opportunity to speak with the experts, take advantage of some Black Friday deals and brush up on your travel knowledge.
The trivia night kicks off at 6pm and is hosted by 4MK Radio star, Rob Kidd, with the evening sure to be lively and entertaining for all.
Each table will consist of eight people so get your friends together and book your place.
Tickets are just $25 and include a share platter on your table.
The Trivia Champion, decided by a quick-fire round, will secure a remarkable prize—a 12-Day Norwegian Coastal Voyage for two guests.
This features a journey cruising through the world-renowned fjords, providing a front-row seat to the mesmerizing spectacle of the Northern Lights or the phenomenon of the midnight sun.
If you can’t make it to the trivia evening and want to make the most of the Black Friday offers – contact the team at Travel Associates to make an appointment 07 4940 0500.
Visit Travel Associates Mackay on Facebook for more information or to secure tickets.
WHAT: Trivia By Travel Associates
WHERE: Harrup Park
WHEN: Thursday, 23 October
TIME: 5pm – 8pm
Gargett branch of the Queensland Country Women’s Association will mark its 75th anniversary on 20th November, with a special luncheon reminiscent of times gone by.
This month, the children and grandchildren of those women will be at the centre of the branch’s anniversary celebrations, joining past and present QCWA members and people with links to the branch at a birthday luncheon at Gargett Hall.
A morning tea, as well as a display of photos through the ages will be a part of the itinerary, to assist in celebrating the milestone for the QCWA community.
The branch had its first beginnings on November 17, 1948, at a meeting held in Gargett’s Coronation Hall. One of the earliest photos, taken in the early 1950s, shows a group of women on the hall stage, which doubled as the town’s picture theatre.
The was the early meeting place for members before Gargett CWA opened its own hall in 1957.
Construction of the hall in 1957 remains one of the branch’s major achievements. Members held miniature deb balls, fashion parades, dances, fancy dress balls, concerts and more in the 1960s.
For 10 years during the 1960s and early 1970s, an annual Tourist Festival Ball was held at Gargett Hall, a highlight was the crowning of the Tourist Festival Queen.
Today, service to the community is a major focus, with members meeting monthly to work on numerous fundraising projects to keep the hall open and maintained, as well as boosting the CWA’s State Crisis Fund and financing local community support initiatives.
The 75th Anniversary Lunch starts at 10:30am. The cost is $20 to attend and RSVP is essential by 10th November to Secretary Loris on 0400 559 557 or lorisvwall@gmail.com.au.
This will be a joyous occasion for local women to celebrate the achievements of their beloved organisation and share in the spirit of community, as they do best.
Original members of the Gargett branch QCWA in early 1950s (L-R) Edie Omand, Ethel Bradshaw, Madge Bradshaw, Violet Kohler (later Martin), Thelma Cameron, Doris Voss (later Luscombe), Nell Webster, Elizabeth Henderson, May Millard, Ina Childs, Jess Launder and Elsie Nash
Celebrations for the opening of the new Mirani Bridge in 1959. CWA had a float in the procession
Tourist Festival Queen 1971. (L-R) Lola Dwyer, President Silvia Bourke, Winner Marie Louise Howie Secretary Glady Dillon, Treasurer Shirley Venton and Vice President Irma Forzatti
Photos supplied
A brilliant line-up of highly awarded new films from around the globe will light up the big screen in Mackay at BCC Mount Pleasant, from 17th to 19th November, bringing exciting world-class cinema to sunny Queensland.
The Travelling Film Festival brings international and Australian film programs to venues and locations that would not ordinarily get to see the range of films on offer in a cinema setting.
Featuring six award-winning and nominated feature-length films and three award-winning Australian short films, the festival program promises absorbing stories from masterful filmmakers.
Filmgoers can enjoy an Opening Night welcome drink before the film starts, hosted by Film & Arts Mackay from 6:15pm on 17th November.
This year’s Opening Night film is Sundance Audience Award-winner ‘Shayda’, a stirring and inspiring drama about an Iranian migrant battling the legal system to protect her 6-year-old daughter in Australia.
The Travelling Film Festival will also feature showings of award-winning films such as ‘Anatomy of a Fall’, a tense psychological drama featuring an author accused of murdering her husband.
‘Riceboy Sleeps’, a warm and endearing shot-on-16mm treasure about a Korean mother and son’s migrant experience in Canada.
‘Fallen Leaves’ is an off-beat and quirky romance of a lonely supermarket worker and an even lonelier metalworker.
‘Perfect Days’ Tokyo-set, including classic rock tunes from the likes of Van Morrison and Prince.
‘Blackberry’ puts the invention of the first smartphone and the rise of “tech bros” under a savagely funny microscope.
‘Chum’ is an Australian short dark comedy of a blind woman who bonds with a stranger; but all is not as it seems.
‘Katele’ is set across a Far North Queensland and Torres Strait Island backdrop, spoken in English and Kala Kawa Ya.
‘Teacups’ is a poignant animation based on the true story of Don Ritchie, who’s calm and comforting intervention saved many lives near his cliff-top home.
Tickets to The Travelling Film Festival Mackay are now on sale. For more information and bookings, please visit www.sff.org.au/tff/program/mackay
The Travelling Film Festival Returns with an Award-Winning Lineup fromAround the Globe
Friday 10 November
Keep the Speed off the Streets! (Test & Tune)
Gates open 3pm
Scrutineering opens at 4.00pm to 6.00pm Racing from 5.00pm to 9.00pm. $20 Spectator tickets available at the gate.
Palmyra Dragway
Paxtons Night Markets
4pm to 8pm
Mackay’s original and truly local handmade Night market. A unique shopping experience with quality stalls, live music, food and the best location on the river. | Free entry.
10 River Street
Friday Night Live Music
Every Friday from 5pm
Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.
Boomerang Hotel
Friday Kirtan Meditation
2nd and 4th Friday of every month from 6:30pm to 8pm
Kirtan sessions weave live music with sacred yoga chants in a relaxed, uplifting atmosphere where you can easily experience spiritual connection. | Free entry.
CWA Hall
Annette Worthington (Live)
From 6:30pm
Don’t miss out on an evening filled with awesome music and non-stop dancing! | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Saturday 11 November
2023 PDRC Champs
Gates open 8am
Scrutineering shed open from 9:00am to 11:00am. Qualifying from 12:00pm. Racing from 4:00pm. Finals approx. 8:00pm. $20 Spectator tickets available at the gate.
Palmyra Dragway
WBBL: Heat vs Strikers
First Ball from 6:10pm
The Heat WBBL team are returning to their second home in Mackay for the highly anticipated match against the Adelaide Strikers!
Grab a bite to eat at the ground as you cheer on your favourite team.
Tickets available at brisbaneheat.com.au/wbbl-mackay
Great Barrier Reef Arena
Mackay Showground Markets
Every Saturday from 6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
Falun Gong Classes
Every Saturday from 10am
Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.
You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.
Live Music Saturdays
Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm
Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.
The Kooyong Hotel
Mackay Choral Society presents ‘A Glorious Christmas’
3pm and Sunday 3pm
Welcoming the music lovers of Mackay to what will be a world class performance, with choruses from Handel's Messiah and traditional Christmas Carols, filling the theatre with beautiful singing and orchestral music for over two hours (including a 20 minute interval).
Adults $35, Concession $30 and Children $20 | Tickets available at trybooking.com
CQCM Theatre - 151 Boundary Road, Ooralea
Mackay Nth Qld Babies & Kids Mega Christmas Market
From 4pm – 8:30pm and Sunday 12th November from 8am to 12pm
Over 50 Local businesses on display with all things babies & kids, as well as mum’s to be & new mum products.
Lucky door prizes, Jumping Castles, Face Painting, Free Bounty Bags.
$2 Adult Entry - Kids 17 years and under free. Tickets available at the door
Mackay Showgrounds
Significant Other (Live)
From 6pm – 10pm
Immerse yourself in an unforgettable night of live entertainment at the Garden Bar. | Free entry.
Harrup Park
Sunday 12 November
Troppo Markets
2nd Sunday of every month from 7:30am to 11:30am
This event will keep you coming back with a never-ending variety of items for sale and plenty of entertainment and amusements too. | Free entry.
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre
Significant Other (Live)
From 2pm
A live music performance that you won’t want to miss - come along for a great afternoon! | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Sunday Bingo
Every Sunday from 7pm
Come along and you could win! | Free entry.
South Leagues Club
Monday 13 November
Trivia Night
6:30pm to 8:30pm
Trivia night on Mondays at Centro Restaurant. There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.
Magpies Sporting Club
Tuesday 14 November
B2B Brews (sponsored by Travel Associates Mackay)
8am to 9am
This week’s brews are sponsored by Travel Associates Mackay. Enjoy your morning bevvie while hearing all about Travel Associates Mackay upcoming Travel Trivia Night on the 23rd of November. With amazing prizes to be won including a 12-night Norwegian Cruise for 2, this is a night not to be missed!
So come on down, grab your coffee and start fine tuning your travel knowledge!
Sprinkles and Love Cake Emporium
Chatty Cafe
Every second Tuesday of the month from 9:30am to 10:30am
Chatty Café is a global movement that aims to reduce loneliness and social isolation, connecting people over a cuppa to help improve health and mental wellbeing.
Chatty Café invites you to come along to connect, converse, and share ideas. Second Tuesday of the Month.
Access to free events is only one of the benefits of library membership. If you are not already a library member, please join at library.mackay.qld.gov.au/Montage/Join.aspx
Gordon White Library
EQUIP: POWER EDITION
9am to 3:30pm
An event in Mackay to INSPIRE + EQUIP women on their political journey.
The Women for Election EQUIP: Power Edition Program is a highly practical non-partisan workshop that provides women with the key knowledge of how to campaign at all levels of government. You'll learn about the tools and techniques to enable you to run for office, be the best candidate you can be, or assist another woman with her political campaign.
Free event | Tickets at humanitix.com
Jubilee Community Centre
Wednesday 15 November
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $8 for members and $10 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Thursday 16 November
Mackay Riverside Market
Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm
Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.
Bluewater Quay
West End Readers Book Club
5pm to 6pm
Come along to the monthly book club and connect with people who enjoy reading and discover new authors. This event is for adults aged 18 years and older. | Free entry.
Access to free events is only one of the benefits of library membership. If you are not already a library member, please join at library.mackay.qld.gov.au/Montage/Join.aspx
Walkerston Library
Dance Express Mackay is thrilled to hit the stage on 19th November in a dance extravaganza like no other - No need to toss up which concerts to see in 2023, the concert of the year is right here!
The Dance Express kids will have you grooving in your seat from their larger-than-life Ready Set Dancers making a stage debut, to their Graduating Seniors taking their final bow.
A spectacle for the whole family, Dance Express concerts are known for their high energy and entertainment factor.
“After putting on my fair share of concerts over the years, what was once groundbreaking just doesn’t cut it anymore,” said Director of Dance Express, Karen Bishop.
“It is vital to keep innovating and pushing the boundaries to keep the audience engaged! Rather than the passive clap and awkward cough, we want a real party atmosphere.
“Our audience members are each given a glow stick to wave and dance within their seats. Seeing a sea of colour really gives the kids a boost and adds to the energy of the performance!” Ms Bishop exclaimed.
Gone are the days of long concerts with endless solos to slow the pace, Dance Express’ award-winning routines matched with the electric MECC atmosphere combine to create a show that is fast paced, exciting and fun!
A little bit of tap, a splash of jazz, a sprinkling of ballet, a drizzle of hip hop, stir in their cheer routines, top it off with some contemporary music, and you have the perfect ‘Concert Recipe’!
So, bring the whole family, lace up those dancing shoes and get ready to celebrate with Dance Express.
It is a dream for the performers to dance for a sold-out auditorium, and tickets are selling fast so grab yours today!
Visit themecc.com.au for tickets and more information
Watch the Dance Express kids light up the stage live at the MECC
Photo supplied
Local businesses have the opportunity to learn essential digital marketing skills in face-to-face workshops this November.
Run by digital marketing agency Rebel Nation, the small group workshops allow participants to upgrade their marketing knowledge, learn new tools and ask questions specific to their business.
Rebel Nation head trainer Jade McAuley said the final 2023 workshops were two of her “favourite” topics because of “the massive impact they can have on your business, and anyone can use them!”.
“Our first is on Meta Ads – which I’d stake is probably the most cost-effective advertising platform available to businesses today,” Ms McAuley said.
“Learn how to use this platform and you can turn a $50 ad spend into 1000s of eyeballs on your business.
“I get that it can seem daunting – the idea of creating a digital ad – but that’s what these workshops are for. It’s a capped group so you can ask all your questions, get ideas and insights specific to your business and also learn from other business peeps.”
The Meta Ads workshops will run on November 16 and 17, and the second workshop on ChatGPT will run on November 21 and 22.
“ChatGPT is a free tool that makes writing social media copy, blogs, taglines, basically any kind of marketing copy so much easier, faster and better – when you know how to use it correctly.
“I know so many businesses who don’t have the time to do their marketing – ChatGPT is seriously a gamechanger here, the time it saves is immense.”
Spots are limited and bookings are $70 per person.
Bookings can be made at www.rebelnation.com.au/workshops-november.
Mackay Regional Council's Australia Day event grants are now open and local community groups are encouraged to apply.
Mayor Greg Williamson said council was excited to offer the Australia Day event grant funding once again for 2024.
“Our 2023 Aussie Day community events had a record attendance of more than 2900 people, so we are looking forward to another exciting Aussie Day event line up,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Not-for-profit community groups can apply for up to $1000 to support their Australia Day event and celebrate what they love about our beautiful region,” he said.
“From beach games and park barbecues to awards ceremonies and morning teas, the events are a great way to highlight our community spirit.
“The events are held at various times throughout the day and are a celebration of the amazing region we live in.”
To be eligible for funding, events need to be held on Australia Day 2024 (Friday, January 26), be free for all to attend and held within the Mackay Regional Council area.
Organisers also need to be a registered not-for-profit group or have a letter of support from a registered group.
Applications are now open via the council website and will close midnight Monday, November 20.
Australia Day event grant application forms and guidelines can be found on the council website.
Mackay Regional Council is on the hunt for unsung heroes, community volunteers, inspirational sportspeople and local legends of all ages.
Now is the time to nominate residents for the 2024 Australia Day Awards.
Nominations are now open for the following categories: Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Arts and Culture, Environmental Achievement, Lori Burgess Community Volunteer, Community Group, Senior Sports and Young Sports Award.
Mayor Greg Williamson said there had been so many tremendous nominations last year and our region was extremely lucky to have so many amazing groups and individuals that stepped up for our community.
“Police District Crime Prevention Coordinator Nigel Dalton is our 2023 Citizen of the Year and is a great example of a community member who goes above and beyond,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Nigel not only works hard to educate and keep our young people safe, he’s also a very active community volunteer who has worked with disadvantaged youth and men’s groups like Shed Happens,” he said.
Nigel was awarded the Queensland Police Liaison Officer Award in 2017.
His Police District activities are outstanding, particularly Choices and Safety Circus safety talks across various age groups.
“The judges were also blown away by our Lori Burgess Community Volunteer Award winner Jody Burrows,” Mayor Williamson added.
“Jody has volunteered with Mackay Riding for the Disabled for about 30 years.
“She has changed people’s lives.
“There are many amazing stories of rider progress, from nonverbal autistic children talking when on a horse to riders being able to develop enough strength in their back or core to support life changing surgeries.”
The 2023 Young Citizen of the Year was Keira Brown.
Keira is the current coordinator of the Valley District Youth Council. She has been instrumental in working towards the group’s main goals of giving a voice to Pioneer Valley youth, developing leadership and building a regional youth community.
Mayor Greg Williamson said nominating someone for an Australia Day Award took just minutes and was as simple as filling out a nomination form on council’s website or grabbing a hard copy at council’s customer service centres.
“Each year, the nominees always say just how much it means to be nominated and recognised for the work they do,” he said.
“If there’s someone you know who goes above and beyond for our community, then please recognise them today with a nomination.”
Nominations close January 4, 2024.
Online nominations can be found at mackay.qld.gov.au/australiaday
All award winners and nominees will be recognised at a special awards ceremony at the MECC on Thursday, January 25, 2024.
2022 Citizen of the Year Frank Cowell, 2023 Citizen of the Year Nigel Dalton, Mayor Greg Williamson and Vassie Comino of P.Comino and Sons at the 2023 Australia Day Awards Gala
The Mackay Sugar City Rock and Rollers Club members and participants recently had a Saturday night out to remember, with the old Glenella Dance Hall giving a blast from the past, with dancing and fun surrounded by amazing vintage decor of yesteryear.
The Club offers classes every Wednesday night at 7pm in the Senior Citizens Hall on Macalister Street, with the first night free!
Club members are looking forward to the Christmas dance on 9th December, with tickets to be pre-purchased by 17th November.
You don’t have to be a member to come along and have a good time!
For further information, call 0408 983 911.
Anne Duncan and Joseph Sagor showing many colours
Jane and Mario Torrisi always enjoying themselves
Photos supplied
A fun family afternoon has been prepared as Crediton Provisional School and Crediton Hall Recreation Club celebrates an amazing milestone of 80 years in operation.
The event is on 18th November, starting at 12pm and running until late. CHRC is providing a delicious spread of roast beef or pulled pork and gravy rolls, a celebration cake for dessert, as well as a tea and coffee station.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a plate of nibblies to share, and are reminded that the event is BYO for drinks. Chairs and tables will be provided, as well as free camping (powered and unpowered sites).
The Crediton Hall Recreation Club will have games for the kids, and a firepit for the adults. They are also set to host a Rolling Raffle, where you can purchase a $20 ticket to have a chance in all the raffles held throughout the evening.
Attendees are reminded that this is a cash-only event.
Past and present residents are encouraged to attend, and to give a summary of their past involvement and where they are now.
Please bring along any old photos you may have or forward to the Crediton Hall email address.
For further information, contact Secretary of Crediton Hall Recreation Club, Mandy Tennent on 0400 835 275.
All are welcome to join this event, with RSVP due by 11th November to creditonhall@gmail.com
A previous Crediton anniversary celebration. Photo supplied
Mackay Choral Society is proud to present its newest production, A Glorious Christmas taking place 11th and 12th November at 3pm.
The two concerts will comprise of choruses from Handel's Messiah and traditional Christmas Carols, conducted by Kevin Field, a world class conductor currently based at the Bentley Music Academy, Malaysia.
The Society will also bring two professional soloists, Jo Burton and Paul McMahon, to perform beside their own renowned soprano, Nicole Thomson.
The two concerts will be performed at the CQ University Conservatorium of Music, providing a rare occasion for Mackay audiences to enjoy classical music and traditional carols, performed by professional soloists as well as the choir and an orchestra comprising local and overseas musicians.
Mackay Choral Society looks forward to welcoming the music lovers of Mackay to what will be a world class performance.
Tickets are available through trybooking.com or alternatively you can call 0422 264 397. Prices included Adult $35, Concession $30 and Children $20.
Carmen Bennett is a teacher with twenty-five years of experience as an educator, with a focus to empower others to learn, develop and succeed through her MindSpace Learning classes.
Ms Bennett accepts students of all ages, although is currently offering a free 6 week Mindfulness Program through Term Four, targeted at teens aged 13 to 16 years old with many activities on offer:
Week 1 - Mindfulness for stress and sleep - Breathing, meditation, create an essential oil roller
Week 2 - Mindful movement - River walk, body percussion
Week 3- Mindful creation - Project from recycled objects
Week 4 - Mindful goals and visions - Know your purpose
Week 5 - Mindful friendships - Team-building activities
Week 6 - Mindful confidence - Voice work and public speaking
Each session is designed to assist teen development in self-awareness, direction and insight, unlocking potential and increasing capability; a zone to learn new skill sets and break old habits.
Based on three decades of observation Ms Bennett has committed to, she has discovered how people learn, accomplish projects, and achieve goals. Her observations have fostered a space that is founded in a philosophy of mindful awareness.
Mindfulness, journaling, meditation, neuro-linguistic programming (NLP), PERMA model theory and crystal bowl sound therapy are experienced in this sensory environment.
“As a qualified educational leader with extensive experience in mentoring, teaching, and leading teams, sessions integrate coaching and learning to encourage a mind shift.
“Distractibility and procrastination have impacted on our ability to think and live with true purpose, true awareness, and true connection.” Ms Bennett stated.
Classes will also be offered in 2024. Live an intentionally-built future with Mindspace Learning.
To book a consultation or find out more about the various programs and workshops available, visit mindspace-learning.my.canva.site or email mindspaceqld@gmail.com
Experience sound therapy with Mindspace Learning
Friday 3 November
Public Art Walk
First Friday of every month from 4:30pm
This city art walk begins at Artspace Mackay and takes you through the city centre. Along the way, participants will learn about Mackay’s iconic public art installations and the local, and internationally-acclaimed artists who created them. | Free entry for all ages.
Artspace Mackay
Friday Night Live Music
Every Friday from 5pm
Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.
Boomerang Hotel
FILM NIGHT | ‘Driving Madeleine’
Starts at 7:30pm
DRIVING MADELEINE is a heart-warming French drama film, released in 2022 and directed by Christian Carion. The story rediscovers the power of the kindness of strangers, following taxi driver Charles (Dany Boon) who reluctantly takes on an early-morning booking and begins to regret his decision when a cantankerous old woman, Madeleine (Line Renaud) is waiting begrudgingly at the pickup point. Despite his own personal grievances, Charles begins to realise that his problems are nowhere near as hard-pressing as his client’s. | Tickets online at trybook.com/CMLUR
Film and Arts Mackay
Shannan Fitzgerald (Live)
From 6:30pm
Kickstart your weekend, a night filled with awesome music and non-stop dancing. | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Saturday 4 November
Mackay Showground Markets
Every Saturday from 6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
Falun Gong Classes
Every Saturday from 10am
Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.
You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.
Family Karaoke Pizza Party
6pm - 1st Saturday of the month
Come out for a fun-filled family-friendly night on the 1st Saturday of every month!
Enjoy FREE activities including karaoke, face painting, and balloon twisting.
Satisfy your hunger with delicious food at Ma’s Parkside Plaza and make lasting memories with loved ones.
Call (07) 4951 2139 to RSVP | Free entry.
Ma's Pizza Kitchen - Parkside Plaza
Karaoke Under The Stars
First Saturday of every month from 8pm – midnight
Start tuning up your vocals & getting your song lists ready so you can Karaoke the night out. | Free entry.
Northern Beaches Bowls Club
Sunday 5 November
Sunday Bingo
Every Sunday from 7pm
Come along and you could win! | Free entry.
South Leagues Club
Monday 6 November
Trivia Night
6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!
Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?
Round up your friends and get your geek on!
Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club
Trivia Night
7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.
Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.
Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.
Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club
Tuesday 7 November
Fire & Fate Unplugged (Live)
From 4pm
Following the Melbourne Cup, come on down to the Seabreeze to see Fire & Fate – Unplugged! | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Morning Melodies
First Tuesday of every month from 11am-1pm
Enjoy a morning of fun, food and entertainment with Morning Melodies featuring Anette Worthington performing live once a month. | Free entry.
Souths Leagues Club
Wednesday 8 November
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $8 for members and $10 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Thursday 9 November
Mackay Riverside Market
Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm
Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.
Bluewater Quay
The Dreggs – Take a Little Time Tour
From 7:30pm
Fresh from their latest hit singles and sold-out shows across the UK and Europe, The Dreggs are back to rock Australia once again. Don’t miss the chance to experience their high-energy performance right here on home turf. | Tickets at oztix.com.au
Seabreeze Hotel
Mackay Farmers Market
Karaoke Under The Stars
Shannan Fitzgerald (Live)
FILM NIGHT | ‘Driving Madeleine’
Family Karaoke Pizza Party
The Dreggs – Take a Little Time Tour
The world's most beloved children's entertainment group, The Wiggles, are thrilled to announce their brand new live show, WIGGLY BIG DAY OUT! Tour, proudly presented by Huggies.
This spectacular event will treat families to an enchanting carnival-inspired extravaganza, as The Wiggles perform live to the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC).
Promising a festive day filled with music, dancing, and laughter for the whole family, audiences can expect an unforgettable event filled with energetic performances by the Wiggly ‘Great Eight’ - Blue Wiggles Anthony and Lucia, Red Wiggles Simon and Caterina, Yellow Wiggles Tsehay and Evie, and Purple Wiggles Lachy and John.
The show will feature beloved Wiggles songs such as ‘Rock-a-Bye Your Bear’, ‘Hot Potato’ and ‘Fruit Salad’, as well as new hits like ‘Getting Strong’ and ‘Hey Tsehay!’
Blue Wiggle Anthony Field said, "We can't wait to hit the road again and bring our biggest and brightest show yet to families all over Australia.
“This tour will be a Wiggly carnival celebration that will create unforgettable memories for everyone. We have some surprises in store, including new songs and a lot of festival fun.”
The Wiggles will also be joined on stage by all their Wiggly friends, including Dorothy the Dinosaur, Wags the Dog, Henry the Octopus, Captain Feathersword and Shirley Shawn the Unicorn.
In true Wiggles tradition, the annual arena spectacular wouldn't be complete without a special appearance down under from the big man in red, direct from the North Pole.
The WIGGLY BIG DAY OUT! Tour promises to be an extraordinary live show, guaranteed to bring joy to audiences and leave the whole family with smiles from ear to ear. The tour will commence at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) on 7th December.
Get your tickets fast, they’ll go like hot potatoes! Available at themecc.com.au
The Sarina Rugby League Club and the Sarina Neighbourhood Centre are hosting a free “Happy As” barbecue and mini expo to celebrate Men’s Health Awareness Month (Movember).
The event, to be held at the Sarina Sporting and Services Club beer garden this Saturday (November 4), from noon to 2pm, will be a great social event with a positive health and wellbeing theme.
There will be live music, random lucky door prizes, ten cars on show from the Mackay Vintage Car Club and various expo displays from local organisations like the Sarina Men’s Shed, Real Mates Talk and sporting groups.
Mayor Greg Williamson encouraged residents to register for the event as soon as possible, as numbers were limited.
“This will be a great event for men of all ages to come along, grab some information, enjoy a free barbecue lunch and socialise,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Movember is a fantastic month-long campaign that encourages men to engage in activities to raise awareness about men’s health,” he said.
“It aims to challenge the stigma around men’s health issues, spark conversations and promote early detection and intervention.”
To register for the “Happy As” barbecue and mini expo, head to https://fb.me/e/1xeouJX9J or call the Sarina Neighbourhood Centre on 4961 9283.
Prior to the lunch event, at 11.30am, council and the Sarina Rugby League Club will be unveiling a new plaque at Buffy the Toad, in Broad Street Park, to immortalise three new local legends of league.
Players Daly Cherry-Evans, Reuben Cotter and Brianna Clark will be represented on the plaque and have been invited, together with Sarina Rugby League lifetime members and players.
This unveiling is open for the community to attend and will be emceed by rugby league great and Mackay region councillor Martin Bella.
Sarina rugby league legends Martin Bella and Kevin Campion with Buffy in 2016
Friday 27 October
Guided Walks in the Gardens
10am – 11:15am
A guided walk in the Gardens. These walks last about an hour and are conducted at a leisurely pace.
While bookings are preferred, individuals can phone the gardens at 07 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au to reserve their spot.
Every Friday until the end of October. | Free entry.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Come and Try Lawn Bowls
10am – 11:30am
Enjoy a fun session learning to play. Bowls provided or bring your own. Wear comfortable clothing, flat soled footwear, socks or barefoot. Families, workplaces and individuals welcome. | Free entry.
Mackay City Bowls Club
Endeavour Foundation Employment Showcase
2pm – 3:30pm
The different jobs that might just be right for you
What it’s like to work for Endeavour Foundation
How you can be a part of #TeamPossible!
This event is for you if you are:
- A person with disability looking for a job
- Looking to support people with disability as an employment coach
- A support coordinator
- Curious about the services we provide to support people with disability in the community.
Endeavour Foundation Business Solutions
Friday Night Live Music
Every Friday from 5pm
Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.
Boomerang Hotel
Nathan Kennedy (Live)
6:30pm – 10:30pm
Come along for a great night of live music at The Burb. | Free entry.
Souths Suburban Bowls Club
Fire & Fate Unplugged (Live)
6:30pm – 9:30pm
Come on down to the Seabreeze Hotel to see Fire & Fate – Unplugged, LIVE!
Don’t miss out on an evening filled with awesome music and non-stop dancing. | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Saturday 28 October
Mackay Showground Markets
6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
Obstacle Hell 2023
7:30am
Over 40 obstacles, mud pits, music mayhem & more. An obstacle challenge for fun & for all fitness levels. | Tickets available at obstaclehell.com
Rowallan Park Scout Camping Ground
Falun Gong Classes
Every Saturday from 10am
Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.
You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.
Día de los Muertos
12pm – 9pm
Join this colourful and cultural extravaganza celebrating the Day of the Dead this Halloween!
Mexican meal specials all day, as well as activities from 6-9pm including Sugar Skull Face Painting, Live Music, Piñatas and a Costume Contest.
Family-friendly event. | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Live Music Saturdays
Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm
Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.
The Kooyong Hotel
VaMa (Live)
6pm – 10pm
Experience the dynamic live performance by VaMa at the Garden Bar.
Join in for an unforgettable night of music and entertainment! | Free entry.
Harrup Park
Sunday 29 October
Tyla Rodrigues (Live)
3pm – 6pm
Soulful country sensation Tyla Rodrigues to light up Seabreeze Hotel with free live show!
Tyla has quickly risen to prominence, captivating audiences with her performances at renowned festivals, events, and venues.
Drawing inspiration from musical legends such as Stevie Wonder, Whitney Houston, Lauren Hill, as well as modern country icons like Carrie Underwood, Miranda Lambert, Luke Combs, and Chris Stapleton, Tyla has crafted a unique country-soul style. | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Sunday Bingo
Every Sunday from 7pm
Come along and you could win! | Free entry.
Souths Leagues Club
Monday 30 October
Come and Try Lawn Bowls
1:15pm – 2:15pm
Enjoy a fun session learning to play. Bowls provided or bring your own. Wear comfortable clothing, flat soled footwear, socks or barefoot. Families, workplaces and individuals welcome. | Free entry.
Mackay City Bowls Club
Tuesday 31 October
Mackay Work Well Regional Information Session
8am – 10am
Join the Work Well Information Sessions to learn, connect and share ideas with other industry professionals. The event will include presentations on:
• Managing the risk of psychosocial hazards at work Code of Practice 2022
• Managing respirable crystalline silica dust exposure in construction and manufacturing of construction elements Code of Practice 2022
• Powerline safety: Look up and live. | Reserve your free ticket at eventbrite.com.au
Rydges Mackay Suites
Halloween Carnevil Trick or Treat
3:30pm – 6pm
Dress up, grab your stamp card & trick or treat with a twist through the Centre.
Head in after school for the trick or treat, letting your costumed little monsters explore the Centre in search of participating stores who will reward them with a trick or treat stamp. Once all are collected come back to the stage and get a bag of goodies! Limited numbers available.
Trick or treat, spooky craft and free face painting.
Registration required for participating children.
Mount Pleasant Centre
Wednesday 1 November
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Thursday 2 November
Mackay Riverside Market
Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm
Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and dessert.
Bluewater Quay
Menopause the Musical
Thursday & Friday – 7:30pm
The original New York and Las Vegas hit Menopause The Musical® is coming to Mackay this November!
Inspired by a hot flush and a bottle of wine, Menopause The Musical® is a celebration for women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have survived “The Change”. | Tickets available online
Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre
Mackay Farmers Market
Día de los Muertos
Sunday Night Bingo
Tyla Rodrigues
Menopause the Musical
Obstacle Hell 2023
DRIVING MADELEINE is a heart-warming French drama film, released in 2022 and directed by Christian Carion. The story rediscovers the power of the kindness of strangers, following taxi driver Charles (Dany Boon) who reluctantly takes on an early-morning booking.
He begins to regret his decision when a cantankerous old woman, Madeleine (Line Renaud) is waiting begrudgingly at the pickup point. Despite his own personal grievances, Charles begins to realise that his problems are nowhere near as hard-pressing as his client’s.
At the age of 92, she must bow to the pressure of family and doctors, waiting to be forced into an assisted living facility. With a day at her disposal, Madeleine intends to drag it out for as long as possible, indulging in her final hours of freedom.
Catch this flick at the upcoming film night at Film and Arts Mackay, 7:30pm on Friday 3rd November. Tickets available at trybooking.com/CMLUR
Shed Happens Mackay is set to celebrate International Men’s Day on 17th November this year. The organisation celebrates this event annually, with a corporate charity breakfast on or near International Men’s Day, which falls on 19th November.
Sponsored by DGH Engineering and supported by DBCT, this is Shed Happens Mackay’s premier event, being supported by an Art Show in August and presentation of Mackay Man Of The Year at the International Men’s Day breakfast.
Our sponsors include DBCT, 2iT Technology, Bushman’s Bakery and we were fortunate to receive a RADF Grant. The RADF Grant is a joint initiative of the State Government and MRC.
Shed Happens Mackay’s theme for International Men’s Day 2023 is the third pillar of IMD, ‘Health and wellness for all generations of men’, for the ‘Shed Interview’ with Ian Rowan and the ever-popular small group discussion around the tables.
The organisation will conduct an Art Auction of three artworks, one of which won Best at Show, titled ‘Internal Oath/Eternal Growth’, a 2nd prize titled ‘A Healing Campfire’ and a donated painting. This is the fourth year of awarding Mackay Man Of The Year, and it is proving very competitive.
What: International Men’s Day Celebratory Breakfast
WHen: 17th November 2023
6:45am – 9:30am
Where: Souths Leagues Club
Tickets $60.00 per person or $550.00 per table of 10
Contact: Frank Cowell: 0434 908 968 or man@dfcowell.net for more information
Best at Show painting, ‘Internal Oath/Eternal Growth’
2nd Prize painting, 'A Healing Campfire'
Donated painting
Photos supplied
You don't need to travel all the way to Sydney for world-class theatre, because you'll find it right here in Mackay with Kucom's latest production "Things I know To Be True", by Andrew Bovell.
Set in the home of your "typical" Aussie family, this masterpiece delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics, exploring love, loss, betrayal, morals and the dilemma of "how to share personal struggles with others when those others are the cause".
I wasn’t expecting to be taken on such a rollercoaster of emotions. Stunning and powerful, this show hits you in all of the feels.
I'll be honest, the risk with a suburban family drama is that it has the potential to fall into the realm of offensively stereotypical, (been there, seen that). Fortunately, Kucom's production, under the direction of the talented Victor Scott, is refreshingly cliche-free, presenting a beautifully modern depiction of a family that we can all relate to, in one way or another.
This is Victor's second time directing Andrew Bovell's work, and his experience is evident, with sophisticated staging, epic direction and a perfectly chosen cast.
Every actor was perfection, bringing raw, honest and engaging performances with empathy for each other that was seriously next-level. Their genuine reactions to events in the storyline were extraordinary, and I was engrossed with every developing minute.
Special mention to the accompanying soundtrack, curated by Victor, which adds a texture and layers to the production - so many goosebumps!
At the risk of giving away the ending, the gut-wrenching finale stayed with me for a long time, so this is my recommendation that you wear extra-strength waterproof mascara.
In conclusion, you absolutely must go see this extraordinary show - 19 to 28 October at Kucom Theatre.
Chef's kiss to the cast and crew. More, more more!!!
Friday 20 October
Guided Walks in the Gardens
10am – 11:15am
A guided walk in the Gardens. These walks last about an hour and are conducted at a leisurely pace.
While bookings are preferred, individuals can phone the gardens at 07 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au to reserve their spot.
Every Friday until the end of October. | Free entry.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Friday Night Live Music
Every Friday from 5pm
Join us on Friday’s from 5pm for live music from our local favourites, good food and great company. | Free entry.
Boomerang Hotel
Anette Worthington (Live)
From 6:30pm
Don’t miss out on an evening filled with awesome music and non-stop dancing. See you there! | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Ron & Deb Duo (Live)
6:30pm – 10:30pm
Come along for a great night of live music at The Burb. | Free entry.
Souths Suburban Bowls Club
Paint & Sip
Every Friday at 5:30pm
The After Work Quickie event teaches you the skills to paint on canvas, while having a few cheeky drinks. BYO.
Book tickets at bottletopsandbrushes.com/shop
Studios 104 Victoria Street
Saturday 21 October
Mackay Showground Markets
6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
Falun Gong Classes
Every Saturday from 10am
Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.
You’re invited to come along and experience a session in the beautiful surroundings of the Botanic Gardens.
Live Music Saturdays
Every Saturday from 2pm – 5pm
Enjoy good tunes and great vibes every Saturday from 2pm. | Free entry.
The Kooyong Hotel
The World Goes 'Round
2pm & 7:30pm
The World Goes 'Round is a stunning revue of the songbook from the multi-Tony award-winning team, Kander and Ebb.
From Cabaret to Chicago, the nonstop hit-parade features unforgettable gems, including "Mr. Cellophane," "Maybe This Time," "Cabaret" and "New York, New York." | Tickets online.
Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music
Lucid Wings (Live)
6:30pm – 9:30pm
Lucid Wings Duo will be gracing the stage for a live music performance that you won’t want to miss. | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Global Grooves 2023
3pm – 8pm
Travel the world in a single afternoon and celebrate our vibrant cultural communities that together make up our proud Mackay region.
Featuring an array of performances from multicultural artists, local community groups, and a range of talented musicians.
Get your groove on or take part in the many activities and workshops on show throughout the event. | All ages event - Free entry.
Queens Park
Sunday 22 October
Come and Try Lawn Bowls
10am – 11:30am
Enjoy a fun session learning to play. Bowls provided or bring your own. Wear comfortable clothing, flat soled footwear, socks or barefoot. Families, workplaces and individuals welcome. | Free entry.
Mackay City Bowls Club
Country to the Coast
From 12pm
Saddle up and join Mackay’s most exciting country event! Live music from Jessica Cash (12pm - 3pm) and Tyla Rodrigues (3pm – 6pm), ride the mechanical bull and visit the petting zoo!
Akubras & Boots are more than welcome! Show off your country style and strut your stuff. | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel
Sunday Bingo
Every Sunday from 7pm
Come along and you could win! | Free entry.
South Leagues Club
St. Joseph’s Christmas Fair
12pm – 4pm
Show rides, jumping castles, face painting and glitter tattoos, kids craft activities, games with fantastic prizes. Meat tray wheel, hot food stalls, dessert bar, live music and bar. | Free entry.
St. Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, North Mackay
Monday 23 October
Toddler Time
9:30am – 10am
The session features nursery rhymes, finger plays and songs. It's never too early to talk, read and tell stories with your child. Bookings are essential - one ticket required per attendee. | Tickets online.
Gordon White Library
Tuesday 24 October
Retire Happy Mackay
5:30pm – 6:45am
This session is designed to give you the tools to start building a better retirement now. This casual and easy-to-understand seminar includes a guide on how to retire, including how much you need in retirement and what to consider when retiring, the latest legislation updates, as well as Centrelink benefits you may be entitled to. | Tickets are complimentary for BUSSQ members and their spouse, partner, or friend.
Souths Leagues Club
Baby Bounce
9:30am – 10am
Baby Bounce promotes language development in babies from birth to walking.
The session features nursery rhymes, finger plays and songs. It’s never too early to talk, read and tell stories with your child. Please bring a small blanket for your child.
Bookings are essential - one ticket required per attendee. | Tickets online.
Sarina Library
Wednesday 25 October
Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase | Mackay
From 7:30pm
The Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase Tour will be tearing up the freeways of Australia. Boasting a line-up of festival favourites and some of the freshest emerging talents, this jam-packed night of pure entertainment is bringing the best of the fest direct to you!
Expertly curated and lovingly presented, the Showcase will feature some of the Festival’s hottest acts live on stage for an incredible two hours of hard-hitting laughter. | Tickets online.
Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Thursday 26 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
Annette Worthington
Lucid Wings
Country to the Coast
Sydney Comedy Festival
Global Grooves 2023
St. Joseph’s Christmas Fair
Each Friday in October, Mackay Regional Council’s Economic Development team hosts a ‘lunch and learn’ event, Yarning Together, as part of celebrating Indigenous Business Month.
The weekly event was created as a platform for the business community to come together in a casual setting, to promote and showcase Indigenous businesses by ‘having a yarn’ and spreading awareness of their prominence in the Mackay region.
Mackay Regional Council Director of Planning, Growth and Sustainability, Aletta Nugent, said the first event on 6th October was a great success for all in attendance, with others dropping by to find out more about the event.
“The main goal of these events is to assist local Indigenous businesses to gain more visibility and access to potential customers and partners,” Ms Nugent said.
“The business representative is given a platform to showcase their products and services. This involves yarning and storytelling about their products or services and distributing promotional materials,” she said.
Ms Nugent said there was also an emphasis on fostering collaboration and partnerships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous businesses and organisations.
“This provides real opportunities for attendees to network with Indigenous business owners, potential partners, investors, and customers and build future relationships,” she said.
Yarning Together events are open to everyone, with the best way to get involved being to attend the event as a participant.
By attending, you can show your support for Indigenous businesses and learn more about their products and services.
You can join the final two Yarning Together events on Fridays from 11:30am to 1:30pm in the City Centre, outside 77 Victoria Street.
For further information on Indigenous Business Month, visit indigenousbusinessmonth.com.au
Attendees celebrate Indigenous Business Month at Yarning Together event - Photo supplied
Mackay Central State School is gearing up to commemorate the reunion of the Class of 1972, scheduled for 21st October.
The organising committee for the event have been busy planning celebrations, with reconnections and recollections set to make this an extraordinary time for past students of the graduating class.
The event will begin with an escorted tour through the school on Saturday morning, followed by an afternoon gathering at 2pm in the Metropolitan Hotel.
It will be a day of reminiscent good times, with two former teachers as special guests, a walk down memory lane with a host of photos, and ‘telegrams’ from those who are unable to join.
Mackay Central State School is calling out to those who they may have missed in contacting past students, with it not being an easy task to locate everyone.
If you see yourself, a friend or relative in these images, be sure to reach out to Mackay Central as they would love to catch up with everyone available to attend.
Any classmates who would like to stay on for dinner or know anyone pictured that would like to attend, please contact the ‘1972 Mackay Central Graduating Class Reunion’ page on Facebook.
Class 7A
Class 7B
Treat your senses to a world tour this weekend at the Mackay region’s largest celebration of multiculturalism.
Global Grooves will transform Queens Park into a global village this Saturday, October 21, from 3pm to 8pm.
The festival will feature fascinating cultural workshops, mesmerising dance performances and global music, markets, and a smorgasbord of international cuisines.
There will be Maltese and Italian baked goods, lechon (Filipino rotisserie pig), curries, dumplings, German sausages, Dutch poffertjes, Greek kebabs, Chinese and Malaysian specialties and so much more.
Deputy Mayor Karen May said council had recently celebrated swearing in people from 100 different nations at our region’s citizenship ceremonies.
“To be able to say that the Mackay region is made up of cultures and customs from 100 different nationalities is amazing,” Cr May said.
“And, while we won’t have all of those cultures on display at Global Grooves, we will have at least 20 – whether that’s through their cuisine, traditional dress, dance, workshops or market stalls,” she said.
Festivals and Events Coordinator Sarah Porter said Global Grooves was a free community event and this year the workshops on offer would allow residents to immerse themselves in cultural practices and dance.
“There will be workshops on traditional Māori tattooing and dancing, Papua New Guinean coconut weaving, Cuban dancing and rhythm circle drumming,” Ms Porter said.
This is a fantastic opportunity for festival goers to learn skills from cultural experts who are generously sharing their traditions with the community,” she said.
Filipino community leader Vivien Hanrahan said Global Grooves presented a unique opportunity.
“Mackay has many passionate multicultural communities, and they all have their festivities during the year to celebrate and showcase their cultures, but Global Grooves is special because it brings them all together and gives people a taste of a variety of cultures,” Ms Hanrahan said.
Please note, Global Grooves is an alcohol-free event. For a full list of market stalls and food vendors, visit the Mackay Festivals Facebook page at facebook.com/mackayfestivals.
Mackay Northern
Beaches State High
School Year 12 Formal
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
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)
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)
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!
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
Friday 06 October
Public Art Walk Mackay – New Mural Unveiling
4:30pm - 5:30pm
Hosted by Artspace Mackay Public Art Officer Jennifer Dalton-Smith, this free city art walk for all ages begins at Artspace Mackay and takes you through the city centre. Along the way, participants will learn about Mackay’s iconic public art installations and the local, and internationally-acclaimed artists who created them. Wear a hat, and comfortable shoes, bring a bottle of water, and arrive promptly at Artspace Mackay as the group will depart on time.
Free entry – Bookings essential
Bluewater Quay
Film: The Perfect Dinner
7:30pm
Director: David Minnella / 2022 / Italy / 106 mins / M / Italian with English subtitles
A delicious comedy about a Neapolitan mafioso and a chef who cross paths in Rome.
Join FilmArt for an Italian themed supper after the film.
Find out more at filmartsmackay.weebly.com | Book tickets at trybooking.com
Conservatorium of Music Theatre, CQUniversity
Royale with Cheese Ultimate 90s Rock Show
8pm
Hailing from Sydney, Royale with Cheese is AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER 90s ROCK SHOW, playing all 90s rock and pop covers – from Seattle-sound to Grunge to Britpop and all the best Oz Rock from the 90s. From Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Soundgarden to Radiohead, Blur and Oasis to Silverchair, You Am I and Screaming Jets to Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Green Day and Blink 182, Royale with Cheese magically weaves all these 90s sounds into a night that’ll have you feeling nostalgic for the last great decade of rock music!
Book tickets at oztix.com.au
The Metropolitan Hotel
Creedence The John Fogerty Show – Fortunate Son Tour
8pm
Creedence: The John Fogerty Show returns to South-East Qld, embarking on their Fortunate Son Tour.
World-class lead singer, Andre Lemberg, is the embodiment of brilliant songwriter, guitarist and singer, John Fogerty – legendary front-man of Creedence Clearwater Revival. He gives-his-all, delivering that powerful and emotive Fogerty voice we all love.
As a bonus, audiences enjoy some Texas boogie to open the show, with Oz ZZ TOP ripping through a fun set of greatest hits including Sharp Dressed Man + Tush + La Grange + Gimme All Your Lovin and more!
Get your tickets at oztix.com.au.
Seabreeze Hotel
Saturday 07 October
Mackay Showground Markets
6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
BMA River 2 Reef Ride 2023
All day event
Now in its 12th year, the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival is a mass participation charity ride that raises funds for local charities – RACQ CQ Rescue and Mackay Sporting Wheelies & Disabled Association. The event is a much-loved cycling event in the Mackay region designed to bring the community together and encourage more people to become active and involved in cycling.
This year the BMA River 2 Reef Ride Festival will be held over 2 amazing days at Mackay Botanic Gardens. Participants can choose from the following events:
Saturday 7th October 2023
Golding Kids Colour Ride (Kids aged 5 to 12yrs)
Sunday 8th October 2023
30km Queensland Country Bank | Health Dash
60km City Fitness Epic
100km Corry Cycles Gran Fondo
Registrations required | Fees apply. Register at raceroster.com
Mackay Botanical Gardens Meadow Amphitheatre
Family Karaoke Pizza Party
6pm - 1st Saturday of the month
Come out for a fun-filled family-friendly night on the 1st Saturday of every month!
Enjoy FREE activities including karaoke, face painting, and balloon twisting.
Satisfy your hunger with delicious food at Ma’s Parkside Plaza and make lasting memories with loved ones.
Call (07) 4951 2139 to RSVP | Free entry.
Ma's Pizza Kitchen - Parkside Plaza
Sunday 08 October
Mackay Gem and Craft Show
9am - 3pm
Come and view the wonderful world of precious and semi-precious stones.
Gems, crystals, slabs and jewellery for sale. Lapidary supplies, sieving, stake a claim.
Raffles and demonstrations, refreshments and sausage sizzle.
Club member and commercial stalls available.
Admission $4 & Under 16 years – Free entry – CASH preferred.
For enquiries, phone Jim: 0418 563 477 or Sandy: 0428848996
3 Leisure Street, South Mackay
Troppo Markets | Mount Pleasant Gem and Craft Show
7:30am – 11:30am
2nd Sunday of the month
Mackay’s Troppo Treasure Markets will keep you coming back with a never-ending variety of items for sale and plenty of entertainment and amusements too.
It’s more than just shopping… it turns your Sunday into a fun day.
Come and be a part of this major community event!
Mount Pleasant Shopping Centre
Souths Sunday Bingo
7pm – 9pm
Every Sunday
Come along to the Souths Leagues Club for a round of Sunday Bingo! Come along and you could win!
Souths Leagues Club
Monday 09 October
Trivia Night
6:30pm – 9pm - Every Monday
Souths Monday Night Trivia just got a whole lot more serious!
Do you have what it takes to take home the jackpot?
Round up your friends and get your geek on!
Sports Bar, Souths Leagues Club
Trivia Night
7pm – 9pm - Every Monday
There’s no excuse not to stretch the grey matter as it’s free to play so come along with your mates or we can put you in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.
Registrations from 6.30pm, starts 7pm.
Book your table to avoid disappointment, call (07) 4965 6100.
Centro Restaurant, Magpies Sporting Club
Tuesday 10 October
Mackay Seniors Expo
9am to 12pm
It is an ideal platform for service providers and businesses that have services, facilities or information to make a real difference in seniors’ quality of life and connection to the community.
The event forms part of the Queensland Government’s state-wide Seniors Month celebrations which aim to improve community attitudes towards older people, facilitate community participation and activity by older people, and enhance community connections and inter-generational relationships.
Free Bus Service (Bus Fox) from Sarina to Mackay Showgrounds and return.
Free Bus Service (Transnorth) from Mirani to Mackay Showgrounds and return.
The Big Shed, Mackay Showgrounds
Mackay Jobs Fair 2023
10am – 1pm
Employers are ready to employ. If you want a job, bring your resume, dress in your best and come along!
There will be 3 lucky winners who will score work clothing vouchers on the day - you have to be in it to win it.
Hope to see you there!
CQ University, Mackay
Women in Manufacturing
7am – 9:30am
Hear some inspiring stories from our panellists at this FREE seated breakfast event. Limited spaces available.
We invite you to join us for our sixth year of celebrating Women in Manufacturing. We will explore the importance of creating clear pathways and inclusive workplaces for women. Learn of the benefits this brings when we get it right, and how innovative employment strategies create a highly skilled workforce and improved staff retention.
Book your ticket at allevents.in
Rydges Mackay Suites, 9 Gregory Street, Mackay, Australia
Wednesday 11 October
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Boy & Bear - Regional Tour
7pm
Australian chart-topping and ARIA-award winning act Boy & Bear have a new self-titled fifth studio album and have announced tours across Australia. See them live on Wednesday night in Mackay!
Tickets at oztix.com.au
Seabreeze Hotel, Mackay
Thursday 12 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
Friday 29 September
Electric Dreams Karaoke Lounge
9pm – 1am
Where you are the star! You love to sing, McGuires has the songs.
Accepts functions and group bookings. | Free entry.
McGuires Hotel, Mackay
Full Moon Party
From 9pm
Neon lights and jelly shots, FREE glow gift on arrival, UV face painters, prizes and giveaways.
The Rabbit Hole, Mackay
Mr Q (Live) @ The Burb
6:30pm – 10:30pm
Join for a night of live music entertainment. | Free entry.
Souths Suburban Bowls Club, Mackay
Saturday 30 September
Mackay Showground Markets
6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
Jumbo Sale
7am – 1pm
Lots of bargains, as well as stalls for plants, cakes and crafts. A sausage sizzle and morning tea will be available. All welcome, with proceeds going towards the Bowling Club. | Free entry.
Marian Bowls Club
Falun Gong Classes
Every Saturday from 10am
Falun Gong offers you relaxation, meditation, inner peace and health through movement.
The meeting place is under the Mango Tree on the Tropical Sun Lawn (near the café). Please bring a yoga mat (or similar) and wear comfortable clothing.
For more information, please contact Catherine Campbell on 0417 193 309 | Free entry.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
Aeroflow Outlaw Nitro Funny Cars
Gates open 8am | Racing from 12pm – 9pm
Make sure you are here to watch these awesome machines battle it out.
NITRO passes will be at 4.00pm, 6.00pm & 8.00pm.
Full fields of support classes with everything from Supercharged Outlaws to Junior Dragsters!
Pits are open to all spectators. | Tickets available from mackaytickets.com.au
Palmyra Dragway
Rhythm and the Reef 2023
1pm – 9pm
Your 2023 lineup includes Lime Cordiale, Example (UK), Go-Jo, Discovery, Clovr, Giant Palms, Late November and Cherry.
Licensed for All Ages | Get tickets at rhythmandthereef.com
Bluewater Quay, Mackay
Sunday 01 October
Mackay Swap Meet and Community Markets 2023
6am - 12pm
Over one hundred stalls, bursting with all sorts of fascinating odds and ends. You’ll discover car, truck and bike parts, cool memorabilia, and a range of tools for all trades.
Not only that, but there will be plants, clothing, woodwork and bric-a-brac stalls, too! No matter what you are searching for, you’re sure to find it there.
All proceeds from this event will be donated to support local charities. | $5 entry fee
Mackay Showgrounds
Monday 02 October
Neon Sip & Paint
2pm – 4:30pm
During this fun session, draw the curtains and turn out the lights to paint under UV lights and bring neon artwork to life. All art supplies provided, with easy to follow instructions.
Shared nibbles platter included. BYO Drinks, ice and glass ware provided.
Min age 16 years and must be accompanied by participating adult. | Find tickets online.
The Creative Art Studio, Shop 1, 3 Ungerer Street, Mackay
Tuesday 03 October
Morning Melodies
11am - 1pm
Enjoy a morning of fun, food and entertainment with Morning Melodies at the Leagues Club with Anette Worthington performing live once a month!
The cafe will be open from 10am & the bistro from 12pm.
Souths Leagues Club, Mackay
Sunrise Bootcamp
5:15am
To kick start our return to group fitness classes, Double M Fitness have their Sunrise Bootcamp at Lamberts Beach.
Don't forget your towel! A post workout dip in the ocean is on the cards.
Buy tickets at doublemfitness.com.au
Lamberts Beach, Mackay
Wednesday 04 October
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that.
For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Thursday 05 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
The Butcher’s Ghost
9pm – 10pm
Come on a haunting journey into a ghost story that lies hidden in your home town!
The Butcher's Ghost is waiting for you on this unique self-guided ghost hunt adventure.
Are you ready to follow the clues, solve the puzzles and unlock the projections that will lead on your way - all with your mobile phone?! Take the lead in a unique paranormal investigation and discover the shocking twist in the tale!
You require a fully charged, internet enabled mobile phone or tablet, headphones or earbuds, and a car to participate.
Book tickets via the-thousand-interactive-5896.myshopify.com
Mackay Swap Meet and Community Markets 2023
Rhythm and the Reef 2023
Electric Dreams Karaoke Lounge
Full Moon Party @ The Rabbit Hole
Aeroflow Outlaw Nitro Funny Cars
Morning Melodies
This October will mark 15 years of the Choir of Unheard Voices, who are celebrating with a concert that is not to be missed.
Margaret Ross has spent the years witnessing the power of singing, for people in our community who are dealing with mental illness and disability.
In 2008, the Choir of Unheard Voices began as a way to reach into the closed spaces of the people who came to sing. They had their very first performance that year, to mark Mental Health Week.
In 2009, the choir travelled to Sydney to open at the International Mental Health Nurses Convention, as well as performing at Parliament House in Brisbane.
Over the years, the choir organisation has performed at over 400 community events, even staying resilient through Covid-19, livestreaming to keep the sound of music alive.
Many years have passed and many challenges have presented, but Margaret has been determined to keep the choir singing, right up until now, marking fifteen years.
This week, the Choir of Unheard Voices will celebrate this incredible milestone.
They will take you on a captivating journey, with the joy and laughter that has come from singing together. The choir will weave through their fond memories in a lyrical waltz, sharing stories and songs to give you an experience where music exists and nothing else matters.
Join the Choir for their fifteen-year celebration concert on Sunday 1st October at 2pm, Northside Uniting Church on Bedford Road.
Some of the members of the Choir of Unheard Voices, 2023.
Created for athletes and the Mackay/Whitsunday community, Capricorn Muscle & Fitness will host a new bodybuilding competition at the MECC in October.
The Mr & Ms Capricornia Bodybuilding Competition provides amateur athletes and the Mackay/Whitsunday community the chance to compete and support their favourite athletes in a local competition.
The event is organised and run by the production team from Capricorn Muscle & Fitness, a brand associated with CAPSA PTY LTD.
The team found that limited local bodybuilding competitions exist in Mackay and that both new and established bodybuilding athletes could benefit from a new local competition.
With no cost to compete as an athlete, both male and female athletes can compete in a range of discipline areas for division championships and the final titles of Mr or Ms Capricornia.
The judges are current and former bodybuilding athletes and will assess athletes throughout the day.
The day will start for ticket-holding patrons at 12.30pm on Saturday 28 October with complimentary refreshments and tea/coffee provided.
Patrons will then attend the bodybuilding competition’s remaining schedule to cheer on their favourite athlete and see who wins the titles of Mr or Ms Capricornia.
What: Mr & Ms Capricornia Bodybuilding Competition
When: Saturday 28 October 2023
Where: MECC Auditorium
Tickets: www.themecc.com.au
With the semi-finals of The Voice 2023 coming to a close, Moranbah’s sweetheart, the beautiful Bella Mackenzie was unfortunately eliminated from this years’ national singing competition.
On Sunday night, Bella performed a unique rendition of Australian icon John Farnham’s ‘Two Strong Hearts’. She dedicated her performance to her late grandfather, ‘Feno’.
On her Facebook page, Bella stated, “We found out that Pop had cancer a week before my blind audition and we lost him not long after that.”
“He taught me everything I know about dreaming big and putting in the hard work every day to chase those dreams and if someone tells you ‘no’, you’re asking the wrong person.”
Bella thanked her family for travelling to see her perform, ending her heartfelt message with: “This one is for you, Pop.”
After Bella’s incredible performance, Rita Ora exclaimed, “I am always excited to see you, I’ve always looked at you as the full package. I’m really proud of you.”
Jason Derulo went on to say, “Bella, you were on fire tonight. I’ve seen you on fire before, but tonight you knocked it out of the park.”
Guy Sebastian ultimately chose Charlie Pittman to move onto the finals, commenting, "Bella, I know there's a lot of people watching through this journey that love country music that have really connected with you.”
Guy also stated, “I really wanted Bella to just show her country heart tonight. We worked on so much through mentoring, you should be so proud.”
Bella’s main hope was to spread the message that ‘no matter where you come from, you can do anything you set your mind to.’
“I wanted to inspire rural and country kids to believe in themselves and go for their dreams!”
To keep up with Bella Mackenzie, visit her website www.bellamackenzie.com.au or find her on social media at @bellamackenzieofficial.
Friday 22 September
Significant Other (Live) @ The Burb
6:30pm – 10:30pm
Join Souths Suburban Bowls Club for live music by Significant Other! | Free entry.
Souths Suburban Bowls Club, Mackay
‘Stepping back in time’ – Guided Walk
10am – 11am
Take a step back in time and discover the evolution of plants in the Coal Garden with a free guided walk on - Bring a hat, water bottle, comfortable shoes and camera.
To book your spot, contact the gardens on phone (07) 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens
The Shield Tour
10am – 11:30am
Get excited for the Shield Tour! Thanks to Westpac, the Origin shields are coming to Mackay. See the Shields up close and personal and grab a photo with Former Origin Great, Josh Hannay.
Caneland Central
Family Fun Day Fundraiser
10am – 2pm
The day will be packed with excitement including family games and activities, yoga, nature walk, a delicious barbecue, ice cream, seed bombing, mini markets and more!
Bring a picnic blanket with your family and friends. | Adults $5 / Kids FREE
Wetland Walkabout, Keelys Road, Mackay
Saturday 23 September
2023 Qld Veterans and Females MX Championships
Gates open Saturday – 9am
An action-packed weekend of motocross racing. There will be massive motocross action, featuring junior and senior female championship classes, vets championship classes from 30+, along with full support classes available for those unable to race the championship classes.
Whether you're riding in the event or looking to spectate, there will be some fantastic talent on show with full food and coffee supplied over the weekend.
Mackay Junior Motocross Track, 8 Hume Street, Mackay
21DS MapRun – East Mackay
From 3pm
This 40min score event is a great way to end your Saturday afternoon.
Use the MapRun 6 App and a map to run, jog or walk through local parks and streets in the cool of the evening. All ages and fitness levels are catered for. Please bring a water bottle and suitable footwear. $5 per person or $12 per family. Payment: 'Tap & go' or cash. Register on the day or pre-register via email at 21degreessouth@gmail.com with the following information: Name, contact number and number of participants in your team.
If you have any queries, phone 0427 758 096.
Quota Park, Binnington Esplanade, Mackay
Mackay Showground Markets
6am – 10am
Local Produce, Natural products, Seafood, Plants and much much more.
Weekly event, held every Saturday. | Free entry.
Mackay Showgrounds
Anette Worthington (Live)
From 2:30pm
Anette Worthington is taking the stage, don’t miss out on this afternoon outing. | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel, Mackay
Mackay Twilight Market
4pm – 8:30pm
Market Stalls, Mini Eat Street, Local Musician, Jumping Castles and Face Painting.
Browse the local small business market stalls, then have a seat and listen to local musicians all while enjoying the yummy food Mackay Food trucks have to offer. ATM on site.
Come & enjoy a night out with your family.
$2 adult entry (kids 17 years & under free) | Entry fee collected at the door.
Mackay Showgrounds
One for the Road (Live)
6pm – 10pm
Come along for an incredible night as One for the Road takes the stage at the Garden Bar. Don’t miss out on the fun! | Free entry.
Harrup Park, Mackay
Shanksy (Live)
From 6:30pm
Get ready to groove all night long with Shanksy taking the stage! Don’t miss out on a night filled with awesome music and non-stop dancing. | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel, Mackay
Pirate Party @ Rabbit Hole
Doors open 9pm
AHOY there, me hearties! Join the Rabbit Hole for a Pirate Party. Prizes for best dressed Pirate, FREE Pirate Hat for the first 100 people through the door and LOADS of Captain Morgan giveaways & cocktails.
Rabbit Hole, Mackay
Sunday 24 September
Souths BINGO
7pm – 9pm
Come along and you could win! Weekly event every Sunday. | Free entry.
South Leagues Club, Mackay
Dan England – Live and Loud
7pm – 9pm
Get ready for the ultimate Sunday session as we bring you an unforgettable live performance by the talented Dan England, live and loud on the Terrace.
After his incredible journey on Australian Idol, Dan England has captivated audiences nationwide with his remarkable talent. With his smooth acoustic rock sound, he’ll be playing popular classics along with current hits that are sure to get you singing along. | Free entry.
Seabreeze Hotel, Mackay
Wednesday 27 September
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal and learn from each other. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
Shop fresh, shop local. The Farmers’ market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce. Enjoy a morning beside the Pioneer River and buy direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons
Every Wednesday, 7:00pm
Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Thursday 28 September
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
Slowly Slowly & Stand Atlantic – Regional Tour
7pm
Slowly Slowly and Stand Atlantic are thrilled to announce they are joining forces on a mammoth Australian Regional tour through September & October.
Their fourth and most ambitious record Daisy Chain debuted at #5 on the ARIA album chart and has received glowing praise from fans and critics afar.
Tickets from $49.90 | Book yours at oztix.com.au
Seabreeze Hotel, Mackay
Little Treehouse Lane Is Your New Parenting Partner
In the world of parenting, every little thing matters. That's where Little Treehouse Lane steps in, not just as a store but as a haven for parents seeking solutions and celebrating special moments.
Nyomi Davidson, the founder of this one-stop-family-shop, understands that raising children can be a rollercoaster of surprises and challenges. With six kids of her own, Nyomi has experienced it all, and that personal touch defines the essence of Little Treehouse Lane.
The story behind this heartwarming venture began when Nyomi found herself expecting her sixth child, a delightful but unexpected blessing. As someone who hadn't navigated the world of baby supplies for some time, Nyomi was taken aback by the overwhelming choices available online. The frustration of paying postage fees for online orders ignited the idea of creating a physical space where parents could see, touch, and explore the products before making a decision. Little Treehouse Lane brings together a myriad of popular online brands under one roof.
In a digital age dominated by influencers, it's often challenging to separate the hype from genuine quality. Nyomi and her experienced team have personally tried and tested most of the range and are happy to recommend the best solutions for your needs. Little Treehouse Lane isn't about pushing products; it's about offering guidance and practical solutions to simplify parenting.
While the store primarily caters to babies, it offers solutions for all stages of family life. From pregnancy and postpartum care to back-to-school essentials, Little Treehouse Lane has something for everyone. It even stocks larger items like prams, car seats, and capsules. The 6-in-1 Jiffle pram is a gamechanger that's turning heads among parents.
Little Treehouse Lane's range of clothing and accessories is simply adorable. Nyomi's commitment to uniqueness shines through in her inventory. She often orders only one of each size, ensuring that your purchase feels special and exclusive. The store features popular brands such as Oi Oi, MontiiCo, Spewy, Ergopouch, Cracked Soda, Indigo & Lellow, Snotty Boss, and many more. It's a curated collection of your favourite online brands, conveniently accessible without the hassle of multiple postage fees.
And the store doesn’t just cater to parenting needs; it's about embracing an eco-friendly way of life. Step inside, and you'll discover a mesmerising rainbow wall adorned with reusable lunch boxes, drink bottles, and eating accessories built to last years and years. These bento-style lunchboxes aren't just about reducing waste; they're about maximising the joy of mealtime. These items won’t just sit in cupboards, they will become an integral part of your child's daily routine.
With Little Treehouse Lane, parenting becomes a little easier, and special moments become a lot more memorable.
Nyomi (right) and her team at Little Treehouse Lane, located upstairs at Caneland Shopping Centre, are here to help make parenthood that little bit easier. Photo credit: Amanda Wright
If I’m not around on Monday, something has gone terribly wrong.
This Sunday I’m running another marathon and I’m asking you to keep me in your thoughts because I’ll need every good piece of vibe I can tell you, as I try and weave my way around Sydney for 42.195km’s.
This will be marathon run number six for me and I’ll tell you, I’m a little nervous as I’ve done very little training. Some people have told me I’m mad for doing it, but hey, let’s just see how it goes in 48 hours.
One of the reasons I’ve hardly done any training, is that it worked for me last year, so why change things up? The other marathons I’ve done like Gold Coast and Melbourne, I did heaps of running and extra stuff and after I ran the distance, I felt horrible. So last year I scaled it back and just did what I normally train for during the hockey season, and I ended up running five hours, so for me that’s great.
I’m starting the run at the base of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, running over it (yes, they’ve closed the whole thing to traffic – how cool) and then I’ll be shuffling my way around the old town and then finishing up at the Sydney Opera House before lunchtime hopefully!
I’m thinking of wearing the pink tutu on the day as well. It’ll be the same one that we all ran in for breast cancer with Mum all those years ago for the Mother’s Day Run and City to Surf. That way Mum will be with me along the way.
Anyway, think about me come 7am Sunday as I go my hardest and come home in a blaze of glory. Hopefully
You know what, straight after this I’ll be doing something very special with a bicycle and some electric cables. Have you ever seen Spicks and Specks years ago when they used to do the exercise bike music challenge? The speed of their pedalling was the speed of the music being played. I reckon I could give it a go to get the word out for the River to Reef bike ride in a few weeks. It should make for some entertaining tunes on 4MK!
Before I go, huge thanks to everyone at the Mackay Hospital Foundation for allowing myself and Johnny to be your MC’s this year at the Dinner on the Runway. I was blessed to be a part of your big night and helping to raise heaps of cash for this wonderful organisation. I am lucky to be able to do what I do each day.
You can join Rob Kidd from 5am weekday mornings on 4MK 1026 AM in Mackay and Proserpine, 91.5FM in Airlie Beach or just ask your smart speaker to play 4MK on iHeartRadio!
Lagoons Gallery Exhibition – Sticks & Stones and Other Inspirations by Linda Danvers
Wednesday – Friday 9am-2pm | Weekends 8am-3pm
'Most people walk through the Gardens looking up at the trees, birds, sky…Botanic Gardens I, II and III are inspired by the beauty I have found looking down'. - Linda Danvers
This exhibition is on display within the Botanic Gardens Café. | Free entry.
Botanic Gardens, 9 Lagoon Street, Mackay
SUGARCITY Powerfest
Friday - Sunday, Gates open Friday 10am
Huge motorsport weekend at Palmyra Dragway with over $26,000 in prize money up for grabs. A weekend full of burnouts, drag racing, roll racing, show-and-shine, power skids and more. Ticketed event | Available at localtix.com.au
Palmyra Drag Racing Club - Bells Road, Mackay
Gentle Chair Yoga & Mindfulness
Discover the benefits of seated Yoga combined with mindful breathing and meditation practice. Chair Yoga can improve coordination, flexibility & concentration while delivering an overall sense of peace & wellbeing to the participant. This event is FREE to attend, however a current Library membership must be held. Max. 8 spaces, so bookings are essential. Contact Sarina Library on 4961 9387.
Sarina Library / Youth Centre
Mushroom Valley Festival
Friday 15 - Sunday 17 September
Mushroom Valley Festival is an amazing psychedelic wonderland.
Festival goers can expect to see a variety of music genres, a vast range of creative activities, dance, theatre discussion, conscious sound healing and an amazing healing space to provide a place for growth and personal wellbeing. Visit www.mushroomvalley.com.au for tickets and further information.
Mushroom Valley Eco Camp, Yalbaroo
VaMa (Live)
Saturday 6pm – 10pm
Experience the dynamic live performance by VaMa at the Garden Bar, join us for an unforgettable night of music and entertainment! Free entry.
Harrup Park, Mackay
Sugardrop Festival 2023
Saturday 5:30pm – 9:30pm
Lovely Records presents Sugardrop 2023, back for its second year!
Acts including Tia Gostelow, Peach Fur, Jem Cassar-Daley, Mt Nadir, Inside Lane and DJ sets Clovr and Pacey.
More info and tickets available at sugardropfestival.com
The Metropolitan Hotel – 17 Gordon Street, Mackay
Sunday Live Music
Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.
Seabreeze Hotel
Creatures of the Garden
Begins Monday
'Creatures of the Gardens' self-guided fun facts trail.
Discover some of the creatures that make their home in the Botanic Gardens and surrounding areas along our fun facts trail.
Family friendly activity, available weekdays during the school holidays. Free entry.
Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens - 9 Lagoon Street, Mackay
Reef Guardians: Virtual Exploration and Craft
Tuesday 10:00am - 11:00am
For ages 5-12. Explore the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef and investigate how a hands-on, community-based approach can make a real difference to the health and resilience of the Reef. Virtual sessions, including Reef inspired hands-on craft activity.
Free ticketed event for library card holders, grab yours at eventbrite.com.au
Dudley Denny City Library, 134 Victoria Street, Mackay
BMD Rumble Championships 2023
Tuesday 9am – Saturday 10am
FMS Group presents ‘Rumble on the Reef’ - Get ready to watch the best skateboarders from the season battle it out during championship week. The biggest skateboarding event of the year. Watch the best skateboarders from Australia, New Zealand, Fiji live and free in Mackay. More information found here: https://www.therumble.com.au/events/Fmsrumbleonthereef
Sugar Bowl Skatepark, Scriha Street, North Mackay
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce direct from the farmer.
Bluewater Quay
National Boys Choir of Australia
Wednesday, 6:00pm
The National Boys Choir of Australia is delighted to perform in St Paul’s Church in Mackay for its 2023 North Queensland Tour. The NBCA is delighted to be joined in this concert by the Mackay Choral Society, directed by Nicole Thomson.
St Paul’s Uniting Church, 21 MacAlister Street, Mackay
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.For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
Juniors Oztag Tryouts
Starts Wednesday at 4pm
Bring the kids down and try out oztag at Souths Junior Rugby League Grounds.
Under 3 – 10 plays from 4:00pm to 4:30pm & Under 11 – 15 plays from 4:30pm to 5:00pm. Registration information will also be available on the day. Free event.
Casey Avenue & Bridge Road, Mackay
Mackay Family Carnival
Thursday - Sunday, 5:30pm – 9pm daily
Mackay Family Carnival is back for the September School Holidays - A family friendly carnival with plenty of rides, food, Side Show Alley games & show bags for ALL ages.
️Free entry into event, ride tickets & armbands available on the night purchased from ticket box. More info: https://www.facebook.com/billsamuesments/
Mackay Showgrounds
Foodspace Cafe will be opening for two weekends over the school holidays (September 16 and 17, 23 and 24) to complement two special Artspace Mackay programs.
As well as its normal menu, the cafe will also be offering a special Foodspace Charcuterie Board with eight antipasto toppings, plus dips and grilled sourdough.
The special cafe openings coincide with Artspace Mackay’s free, drop-in school holiday art activities (on offer all through school holidays during gallery opening hours).
The drop-in activities are for all ages and abilities.
Families are invited to use the many colourful crepe-paper streamers and instructions provided to make a variety of beautiful garlands to adorn a mandap (a four-post structure traditionally used in India for special ceremonies).
There will also be assorted lawn games like Giant Jenga, Connect 4 and Noughts and Crosses that families can play on the grassed area near Foodspace.
Additionally, Artspace Mackay is hosting the next scheduled viewing of their artist’s book of the month on Saturday, September 16 from 10.30am to 11.30am.
For more info, follow Foodspace Café on Facebook or head to artspacemackay.com.au.
Weekend Special: Foodspace Charcuterie Board
$30 for a shared platter or $20 for a single serve.
Special includes: sliced prosciutto, pastrami, salami, shaved double smoked ham, crispy chorizo sausage, cheeses, pickled vegetables, mixed marinated olives, house dips and toasted char-grilled sourdough.
I have been to the Wintermoon Festival a few times and one of the features of that outstanding event is that you need to get there a day or two early to set up your tent and campsite.
We always camped with friends and part of the deal is that you all get in together and help set everyone up. The setting up part involves all the blokes rolling up their sleeves and working together to get the job done.
It requires co-operation, co-ordination and teamwork and involves all sorts of equipment like tent pegs, ropes and hammers.
And there is an expectation that, because you are a bloke, you have a pretty good idea of what you are doing.
I wasn’t sure about (a) how long it would take for me to be found out and (b) how public my humiliation would be … but the answers were (a) a couple of minutes and (b) very.
Riley, the then-teenaged son of my friends Mel and Bryan, noticed my incompetence early as I struggled with some previously obscure piece of camping equipment while setting up a tent.
Rather than keeping his observation to himself, Riley brought it to everyone’s attention with the loud exclamation: “Hey, check out outdoor Dave! How you going with that mate?”
It gave everyone a chance for a big laugh and I know they enjoyed it because it created continuing laughter over the weekend. The best part for everyone, apart from the fact I had been exposed by a mere child, was that I could now be referred to as “Outdoor Dave”.
Whenever a piece of equipment required attention or something needed fixing you would hear the call, “get Outdoor Dave on to it”. Absolutely hilarious. Every. Single. Time.
It is no coincidence that my career choice of real estate does not require me to be useful in the traditional male sense.
There are plenty of blokes, and no-doubt women, in real estate who can build and fix and do all sorts of useful things but, thank God, it’s not a prerequisite.
Most people have done something prior to going into real estate and there are people from all walks of life.
Bringing some sort of life skill is important but real estate soon establishes what is vital if you want to be successful: great communication skills, the power of insight into fellow humans, authenticity, integrity, resilience, a strong work ethic and the ability to juggle multiple issues or problems at one time, among other things … oh, and not making up stupid names about people who can’t fix things.
Central Queensland Blokart Cape Hillsborough Regatta
Friday to Sunday
Watch blokarts gracefully sail down the beach at great speed at Cape Hillsborough for this popular regatta. This is the 15th time this annual event has been held and has become the second-largest blokarting competition in Australia. Free to watch, a sausage sizzle and drinks will be for sale on the beach.
Cape Hillsborough Beach
Wintermoon Springfest
Friday to Sunday
Rejoice in the joy of Spring with music, dance, yoga, meditation, camping , family time and workshops at the stunning Cameron’s Pocket.
Cameron’s Pocket
Friday Jazz @ The Con
Friday, 6:00pm
CQCM Music Staff present Friday Jazz @ the Con featuring Dr David Reaston (guitar), Dr Peter McKenzie (saxophone), Jason Smyth-Tomkins (drums). The September concert will feature vocalist, CQU alumni and staff member, Hayley Kennedy.
Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music
Mackay Livin’ The Dream Expo
Saturday and Sunday
Living' The Dream Expo brings you everything you ever dreamt of owning. Your dream caravan/campervan, car, boat, bike, 4WD, ATV, trailer. Your dream spa, pool, shed. Even your dream BBQ and outdoor furniture.
Mackay Showgrounds
Meet the Artist – Linda Danvers
Saturday, 9:00am to 10:30am
Grab a cuppa and meet Linda Danvers, artist behind the latest exhibition 'Sticks & Stones and Other Inspirations' displayed in the Lagoons Gallery within the Botanic Gardens Cafe.
Linda will explain the unique way in which she created the different artworks displayed and the inspirations behind them. All artworks are for sale, all sale enquiries to be directed to the artist.
Botanic Gardens Café
Gospel Garden Party
Saturday, 2:00pm
This spring celebration promises to be a wonderful celebration of classic Gospel and Gardening glory. The members of the Mackay Anglican Community have been growing plants from their own gardens as a special project to be on display and for sale at the
event. With completely free entry, there will be an afternoon tea available. Attendees can rest and revive in the glory of our North Queensland Spring, while listening to a variety of classic Gospel entertainment from a variety of local performers from Children to Golden oldies who know those tunes so well. Some pure and simple Gospel tunes from Solo performers, duos and trios. All are invited to join. Giant checkers will be on the lawn, and blessings are available in the church. For more information, please contact either Kristi at
admin@mackayanglicans.org.au or Niki at nikipower21@gmail.com or 0411732304.
The gardens to the side of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Gordon Street, Mackay
ACO Collective | Ecstatic Dances
Saturday, 7:30pm
ACO Collective combines Australia’s most talented emerging string players with the professional musicians of the Australian Chamber Orchestra to create a high energy string orchestra.
MECC
Australia A vs New Zealand A
Sunday, 9:30am to 5:00pm
Cricket Australia has selected the Great Barrier Reef Arena to host an exciting cricket series between Australia A and New Zealand A men's teams, finishing with a thrilling One Day game on Sunday, with free entry.
Great Barrier Reef Arena
Jazz in the Park
Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Staff and students from the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music Bachelor of Music course present Jazz in the Park. This event will feature a special guest, renowned vocalist Hayley Kennedy. Relax in the beautiful surrounds of Queens Park and listen to some of Mackay’s finest up-and-coming musicians studying at the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music. Free event. Bring a picnic. BYO chairs.
Queens Park
Sunday Live Music – The Feels
Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm
Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.
Seabreeze Hotel
2023 Aus Poetry Slam Central Queensland Heat
Sunday, 5:00pm to 7:30pm
Think what you've got what it takes to become Australia's next Poetry Slam champion? All you need is an original poem and two minutes on the mic. Two poets chosen by the audience will go on to the Queensland state finals with the chance for a shot at the nationals. Both performers and spectators need a ticket, so grab yours today! Presented by Queensland Poetry Festival.
The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay
Light up the Lake
Sunday, 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Every year MAD Cow Coffee, Hope & Healing ‘Light up the Lake’ with lanterns to remember those we have lost to suicide in our community, show our support to those who’s stories continue and honour the survivors. Lanterns are free to anyone attending and are decorated on the night or collected prior and decorated privately with family or friends as a tribute to a loved one. Special guest appearances and live music by Hannah Roberts Music and the Lake cafe will be open. This FREE MAD Cow Coffee, Hope and Healing community event is proudly sponsored by Wake House Australia, Get It Done Training and Hannah Roberts Music.
Wake House Australia
BMA Kidspace
Tuesday, 10:00am
BMA Kidspace, Artspace Mackay’s free and ever popular toddler’s program, gives children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of cooperative learning. The program includes free artist-run craft activities in two sessions, Session 1: Anytime from 10 to 11:30am; Session 2: Anytime from 12:15 to 2pm with live musical entertainment 11:30am to 12:15pm. Bring your children along for a fun day of art-making, singing and dancing.
Artspace Mackay
Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle
Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm
Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. It's a space to honour the uniqueness of each individual, everyone is equal. They will be able to speak from their hearts about things that trouble, annoy, frustrate them. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.
Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School
Mackay Farmers’ Market
Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am
The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce 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. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.
58 Macalister St, Mackay
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 desert.
Bluewater Quay
One of the changes I’ve noticed in the way of the world is the growing trend for people to see things as either black or white, people as either good or bad. There’s no acceptance or awareness of nuance … you’re either “with us or agin’ us”.
It’s becoming a world without grey areas and some of the big issues of our time highlight what I mean.
Take climate change. If you do not totally embrace Australia’s net zero philosophy and agree 100 per cent with the government’s approach irrespective of any economic and social damage it may cause then you are a “climate change denier”.
You might support reducing emissions but believe energy security and affordability is a vital component of the transition. You might argue that we need to maintain the reliability of our network until renewables can effectively do the job … but that makes you a climate change denier because you are not with the program 100 per cent of the way.
The Voice to Parliament and Executive Government is another hot one.
The way the narrative is being presented, if you do not support the yes vote you are racist. You are either racist and voting no or not racist and voting yes.
In this new world there are only good guys and bad guys. You can’t possibly want indigenous people to be recognised and their lot to be improved and, yet, vote no to the voice because you are concerned about changing the constitution and the fact you do not understand how the voice is going to operate as a bureaucratic entity.
You might want more information, more certainty about how it will work, a better explanation of the legal and bureaucratic impact but in this world of good guys and bad guys you are racist and that’s why you’re voting no.
What does this adversarial world that lacks grey areas mean for real estate?
A listing agent like me works for the seller. The seller pays my commission and a central part of my legal and ethical obligations is that I do everything I can to get the best possible price for the seller.
Does that mean I don’t care about buyers? Do I think the buyer is an adversary, someone who has to be defeated for the sale to be considered successful? No, that would be ridiculous.
The real world is not one of adversarial conflict and extremes. The fact that I work for the seller does not mean I work against the buyer.
My first duty is absolutely to the sellers but to successfully negotiate a contract for them I need to keep the deal together … that means I need to understand and communicate the buyer’s concerns and reservations.
I need to be able to move between the buyer and seller so that the seller understands what is going on, what the obstructions might be to getting a deal done.
In a world that tries to create a simplified divide of friends/enemies, good guys/bad guys, republicans/monarchist, environmentalists/climate deniers, progressives/right-wing extremists, there is room for an agent to work all-in for a seller while creating a friendly, informative, respectful and engaging environment for the buyer.
It’s the small things in life that we take for granted, until they’re lost. Like having access to transport, clothes on our back, the taste of clean drinking water and the one that most recently I realised was a high priority of mine, having a shower in your own home.
Now I’m not going to pretend like this isn’t a good thing, my house is getting a bathroom renovation at the moment. However, it has made me understand the privilege it is to have a shower first thing in the morning to wake me up and showering as part of my night-time wind down ritual.
I’ll be the first to admit I’m not much of a camper, my idea of slumming it is either in a caravan or a large tent with at least access to power and a toilet block close by. I’m not one to take off for the weekend on a camp just for the fun of it, but this past week I have been doing ‘camping adjacent’ by showing wherever I can. Between work and my family’s farm, it seems that this will be the next month of my life – who knew that a full bathroom makeover takes this long!!
The unfortunate consequence for the people around me as part of this adjustment I’m having to make is that I, who is always late to everything, am only going to be later to everything (SORRY BOSS). So please, for me, when you jump in the shower this morning/evening in your own bathroom in your own home - soak up how lucky you are for an extra minute.
All jokes aside there are around 122,500 homeless people in our country that don’t have access to safe accommodation let alone a shower, and a huge number in our region alone - estimated to be more than 1,200 - so don’t take for granted the access we have to life’s spoils. That’s escalated substantially since the estimated 700 homeless from the 2016 census. If you or someone you know is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, there are some great organisations in our region to reach out to, such as the Mackay Women’s Centre, Vinnies Homeless Hostel, the Salvo’s, CASA, Chances Café, Orange Sky and of course Mackay's Sleep Bus.
Kaley
A new second-hand clothing market is coming to Mackay this month aimed at promoting sustainability, affordability, and community engagement.
Healthy, Clean and Green is pleased to present the first Sweet Repeats, a market event that will have clothes for men, women and children.
By participating in the Sweet Repeats event, stall holders and shoppers will be actively helping the environment and supporting members of the Mackay community.
Selling and purchasing second hand clothing reduces textile waste and minimizes our carbon footprint.
By actively extending the lifecycle of clothing, we can collectively make a significant impact on the fast fashion industry which in turn will have a positive effect on the environment.
Customers can discover unique, stylish pieces that won’t break the bank, allowing them to express their individuality without compromising on their budget and stallholders can turn preloved wardrobe items that they no longer wear into cash, which for some could help to ease financial pressures.
Healthy Clean and Green advocates making better choices for the environment and as such there will be a big focus on making Sweet Repeats a low-waste event.
They are encouraging customers and stallholders to bring along their own water bottles, coffee cups and shopping bags.
MAD Cow Coffee will be in attendance on the day and will noy be providing single use takeaway cups, instead offering a ‘mug library’ that people can utilise if they forget to BYO.
For further information please contact Healthy, Clean and Green Owner/Manager Wendy Steindl at wendy@healthycleanandgreen.com.au or visit www.healthycleanandgreen.com.au.
WHAT: Sweet Repeats Second-Hand Clothing Market
WHEN: Sunday, September 17
WHERE: CQ Uni City Campus, Sydney Street, Mackay
Healthy, Clean and Green Owner/Manager Wendy Steindl
Founded in 1964, the National Boys Choir of Australia has established itself as one of Australia’s finest treble choirs.
This month, the choir is delighted to be performing in St Paul’s Church in Mackay as part of its 2023 North Queensland Tour, joined by Artistic Director Andrew Bainbridge and Accompanist Jane Matheson.
The program will include classical, folk and popular songs, including ‘For the Beauty of the Earth’ by choir patron John Rutter, and works by Australian composers Colin Brumby, Ruth McCall, Dan Walker, Nicholas Buc, Todd McNeal and Lyn Williams.
The choir is made up of approximately 200 boys aged between seven and 15, all commencing with a two-year training period before moving into the Performing Choir.
Choristers are trained in the traditional bel canto style, their repertoire including music ranging from early motets through to contemporary commissioned works and fully staged children’s operas, as well as musical comedy, art songs and folk songs from around the world.
The choir is often called on to sing with Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, Opera Australia and Victorian Opera, their busy schedule including regular television, recording and major event appearances such as the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, 2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games, Grand Prix, Bledisloe Cup and Carols by Candlelight at the Myer Music Bowl since 1988.
The National Boys Choir of Australia will be joined in Mackay by the Mackay Choral Society, directed by Nicole Thomson.
WHAT: The National Boys Choir of Australia
WHEN: Wednesday, September 20 from 6:00pm
WHERE: St Paul’s Uniting Church, 21 MacAlister Street, Mackay
TICKETS: Trybooking
Written and released in 1969, Fortunate Son, has become one of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most famous anthems, epitomising the sound, spirit and attitude of late 60’s Rock n Roll.
Following successful tours throughout Victoria and South-East Qld in 2022, The Creedence Boys are keeping this classic and iconic music alive for everyone to reminisce and enjoy. The band can’t wait to gear up and hit the road for their North Qld fans who keep coming back to appreciate this high energy show.
World-class lead singer, Andre Lemberg, is the embodiment of brilliant songwriter, guitarist and singer, John Fogerty - legendary front-man of Creedence Clearwater Revival. He gives-his-all, delivering that powerful and emotive Fogerty voice we all love.
He is joined onstage by an all-star band of musicians who regularly play with Angry Anderson, Mark Gable of the Choirboys and have shared stages with Uriah Heep, The Offspring, Jimmy Barnes, The Angels and more. This combination is the very driving force of why this is arguably the greatest John Fogerty Tribute in the world.
As a bonus, audiences enjoy some Texas boogie to open the show, with Oz ZZ TOP ripping through a fun set of greatest hits including Sharp Dressed Man + Tush + La Grange + Gimme All Your Lovin and more!
Experience classic Rock n Roll at its best and sing along to the greatest hits of both CCR and Fogerty’s solo careers:
Bad Moon Rising + Fortunate Son + Green River + Proud Mary + Suzie Q + Run Through The Jungle + Born on the Bayou + Centerfield and many more.
What: Creedence – The John Fogerty Show
When: Friday 6 October Mackay, Saturday 7 October Bowen
Where: Seabreeze Hotel Mackay, Grand View Hotel Bowen
Tickets: Mackay: https://bit.ly/3rKPLX4 Bowen: https://bit.ly/3Dyqx0t
Oktoberfest is coming to Mackay this October long weekend thanks to Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club.
Get ready to experience authentic German music, food, beer and activities for the kids at this family-friendly event – what better way to spend your long weekend?
Townsville’s Frankfurter Oompah Band will be coming down to provide authentic German entertainment and there will be a selection of Gotzinger German sausages and pretzels for sale along with other treats.
Mayor Greg Williamson said Mackay Regional Council was pleased to support this great fundraiser through the Invest Mackay Events and Conferences Attraction Program.
“The program aims to attract visitors, generate positive economic results and foster community pride,” Mr Williamson said.
“This event is a perfect example of a community event that takes advantage of our beautiful locales and brings everyone together in the great outdoors for a day of fun.”
Oktoberfest will take place on Sunday, October 1 from 12pm to 5:30pm.
Tickets can be purchased for $20 adult and $5 child.
The adult tickets include admittance to the event and a souvenir mug to fill with German-style beer.
Kids tickets include face painting, a giant slide and rock climbing wall for the kids.
This event is one of the largest fundraisers for the Eimeo SLSC and helps to ensure lifesavers are able to patrol our beaches and provide junior activities.
If you are interested in volunteering at Oktoberfest please visit www.eimeoslsc.com.au/oktoberfest.
If you are an orchid lover, don’t miss Mackay’s Orchid Extravaganza at Queens Park next Saturday.
The annual event will see hundreds of orchids on display at the Ken Burgess Orchid House on Saturday, September 16, from 8am to 3pm. There will also be orchid and plant sales, demonstrations and raffles.
Mayor Greg Williamson said the event would be free for the community to attend.
“Council is committed to improving the liveability of our region,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Providing more entertainment and events is crucial to achieving this goal,” he said.
“Events like this appeal to a wide range of people, from the most experienced gardeners to those who just want a chance to admire the exquisite orchids on display.
“Orchid experts will be available on the day to provide helpful tips and tricks for growing orchids in our climate and share their personal experiences.
“If you’ve ever wanted to incorporate orchids into your garden, the Orchid Extravaganza is the perfect opportunity to discover what is available and to find out what would best suit your garden and lifestyle.”
Food stalls will also be available for those who want to grab a bite to eat or a hot/cold drink at the event.
For more information visit the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens website.