By Sam Gillespie

Mackay’s indie pop darling Tia Gostelow has delivered yet another sweet line-up for the second iteration of her hometown festival, Sugardrop.

After a successful debut in 2022, Tia again aims to deliver a boutique event to the Mackay music calendar, bringing bands to the sugar city for the first time while giving locals a platform to share their craft on the big stage.

“I feel like I’ve found my feet after last year,” Tia said.

“It’s really nice to see that it’s continuing to happen year after a year, and it keeps coming into fruition.”

Growing up in Mackay, Tia said opportunities for young musicians to play local festivals were seldom, but the local music scene is starting to thrive.

“I’m hoping Sugardrop is something that can just add to that and give local bands a platform to be able to play with these bigger bands,” she said.

One of these local bands is Inside Lane, who impressed Tia when she saw them open for Kingswood in April.

“They were just amazing,” she said.

“I was so blown away by their drummer, I think he’s 14, they’re so cool so I really needed to get these boys on the line-up, and I’m really excited about having them.”

Inside Lane will be joined by a bevy of Australian talent, most visiting north Queensland for the first time, including headliners the Terrys.

“I’m a huge fan of them and I’m really stoked that they’re a part of it,” Tia said.

“Peach Fur are amazing … they are literally one of the best bands I’ve ever seen play in my life.

“Jem Cassar-Daly makes incredible, beautiful music and Mt. Nadir are playing; half of their band is from Mackay.

Local DJs Clovr and Pacey will be providing the grooves while Tia will also be taking the stage herself, kicking off her album tour following the release of her third album, ‘Head Noise’, due for release on August 18.

“I feel like this is some of the best songwriting I’ve ever done and I’m really excited to play these songs live and get back out and tour Australia with my band,” Tia said.

“I really can’t think of a better way to start the tour than at Sugardrop.”

WHAT: Sugardrop Festival

WHEN: Saturday, September 16 from 2pm

WHERE: Harrup Park

TICKETS: Oztix

‍

Tia Gostelow will launch her album tour in her hometown at Sugardrop Festival. Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes

‍

The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) has reached the impressive milestone of 100,000 customers in 12-months and the team are celebrating with the ultimate ticket giveaway.

Mackay locals will be given the opportunity to win a share in more than 100 tickets via the MECC’s 100K Competition, simply by uploading any photo or video of them attending an event at either the MECC or BB Print Stadium Mackay. The milestone marker is a cause for celebration, with the strong attendance numbers indicating Mackay’s appetite for live performance and cultural events has grown, and it’s not just the MECC who benefits.

Mayor Greg Williamson said 100,000 customers through the MECC had a far-reaching impact on our local economy.

“We’re seeing out of town visitors use these events as mini-holiday opportunities,” Mayor Williamson said.

“They’re enjoying our accommodation providers, our restaurants and our local businesses.

“It’s tremendous to see and is a testament to the service levels the MECC team provide – people aren’t just coming to our events and shows; they’re coming back, time and time again.”

Manager of MECC and Events Andrew Bobeldyk said the events that were proving the most popular at the MECC and BB Print Stadium may surprise a lot of people.

“Mackay’s love for live music and ballet really stand out when you crunch the numbers,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“Queensland Ballet’s performance in March had more than 1000 people in the audience!” he said.

The MECC’s 100k Competition closes on Thursday 15 June. Fifty lucky winners will be chosen at random, each enjoying a double pass to a randomly selected performance. Terms and conditions and further details on how to enter can be found at themecc.com.au.

MECC FUN FACTS

• Largest stadium event for the 22/23 Financial Year – Mackay Cutters vs Townsville Blackhawks (1708 in attendance

• Largest MECC event for the 22/23 Financial Year – Macrossan & Amiet Solicitors 75th Annual Mackay Eisteddfod – October (14,679 in attendance)

• Month with the highest attendance 22/23 Finance Year – October 2022 (20,662 in attendance)

• Largest attended single event in the MECC Plenary Halls – QLD Museum Unearthed (4693 in attendance)

• Largest attended single event in the MECC Auditorium (excluding Mackay Eisteddfod) – Steve-O The Bucket List Tour (1068 in attendance)

‍

The Mackay Mayor’s Charity Ball has now donated more than $1 million to local charities since the creation of the event.

The Ball was formerly organised by Sunrise Rotary Club of Mackay and raised about $600,000 over 15 years before the reins were handed over to council, the MECC and a community committee.

It has since raised about $410,000, including about $91,000, to be split between two local charities, earlier this month at the MECC.

Mayor Greg Williamson said it was an amazing achievement and something all the community could celebrate.

“Cracking the $1 million mark is a credit to the event planning committee and all the amazing sponsors we have on board,” Mayor Williamson said.

“The goal of the event is to support local charities, who are sometimes overlooked by state and federal funding but are in desperate need of funds,” he said.

“This year’s funds have been split equally between Australian Street Aid Project and Ronald McDonald House Charities Mackay Family Room, with each receiving $45,529.01.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) are planning to use the funds to assist with operational costs of the RMHC Family Room in Mackay and Australian Street Aid Project will use the funds to help support people experiencing homelessness in the Mackay region.

Mayor Williamson said the event was a wonderful night at the MECC, with a record crowd of 440 in attendance.

“Everyone there had a great time, and it was good to see big crowds enjoying themselves at an event of this calibre again in Mackay,’’ he said.

“This event keeps going from strength to strength each year and that is thanks to our organising committee, which includes representatives of the community, council and the MECC, our generous corporate sponsors, and our community.”

The funds were announced and officially presented to representatives of Australian Street Aid Project and Ronald McDonald House Charities at a council morning tea today to thank all sponsors.

‍

Samantha Lee, Ronald McDonald House Charities Community Engagement Executive, receiving a cheque from the Mayor’s Charity Ball by Mayor Greg Williamson and committee member Brendan Hughes

‍

FUELLED BY FIRE AND WOOD

Ahead of its special 20-year exhibition openings, which took place last month, Artspace Mackay reached out to the community to borrow some very special pottery pieces.

That pottery is the beautiful, woodfired works of Arthur and Carol Rosser.

Artspace director Tracey Heathwood said the Rossers took up pottery full time in the 1970s after spending a year in Japan.

“They purchased a neglected farm at Dalrymple Heights and spent decades re-foresting the property by planting 10,000 trees,” Ms Heathwood said.

“The Rossers’ pots were the very essence of this place; they were made from local clays, and local timbers fuelled the up to 100-hour long anagama kiln firings,” she said.

“‘Fire and Ash: Woodfire Pottery of Arthur and Carol Rosser’ celebrates the legacy of this husband-and-wife team, bringing together more than forty years of their creative practice.

“It celebrates the artists’ considered approach to land care, development of unique ash glazes and long wood firings.”

Artspace Mackay curator Lauren Turton said Arthur Rosser’s sudden passing in 2020 and Carol Rosser’s need to go into full-time care marked the end of an era for these local pioneers of Australian woodfired ceramics.

“The Artspace team would like to thank their daughter Zoe Judge for her generosity in sharing her parents’ story with us, loaning us much of their personal collection and opening her home to our curatorial team,” Ms Turton said.

“A component of this exhibition features Rosser pots which we have loaned from various local community members, paying tribute to the artists’ commitment to producing beautiful but functional pots for everyday use.”

Also opening on Friday night was Dylan Mooney: The Wall, In Bloom and Time of Our Lives.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Dylan Mooney, who is a proud Yuwi, Torres Strait Islander and Australian South Sea Islander artist from our region, had created an amazing mural on the foyer wall within the gallery.

“The mural, titled ‘Oceans are rising, so must we’, is an extension of Dylan’s advocacy work with the Torres Strait 8 and their Our Islands Our Home campaign, which is about protecting the Torres Strait Islands from the impacts of climate change,” Mayor Williamson said.

“In Bloom celebrates the growth of our art collection over twenty years and features an exciting, new artwork commission by north Queensland artist Brian Robinson, alongside historic artworks and non-acquisitive commissions connected to important stories from our region,” he said.

“Lastly, Time of Our Lives is a partnership with the incredible community arts organisation Crossroad Arts, which will see tremendous animations projected onto the gallery’s exterior entrance wall during the 2023 Mackay Festival of Arts.

“Those who attended the opening were treated to a debut public screening and were blown away by the amazing display.”

Fire and Ash: Woodfire Pottery of Arthur and Carol Rosser, Dylan Mooney: The Wall and In Bloom are on show now at Artspace Mackay.

Visit artspacemackay.com.au for more details.

‍

Daughter of Arthur and Carol Rosser, Zoe Judge spoke passionately about her parent’s work at the opening of the Artspace Mackay exhibition Fire and Ash: Woodfire Pottery of Arthur and Carol Rosser. Photo credit: Jim Cullen

‍

By Chris Karas

Mackay Musical Comedy Players are celebrating the resounding success of their latest production The Addams Family Musical.

Three sell out performances at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre is a testimony of the talent of the hard-working local cast and creative team behind the scenes.

A feature were the efforts of the St Patrick’s College Mackay alumni and current staff and performing arts students that continue to make an impact in the wider community with their strong cultural presence.

No less than thirteen past and present students and staff showcased their skills during the popular musical that was based upon The Addams Family characters created by Charles Addams which depict a kooky and ghoulish American family with an affinity for all things macabre.

Cast included St Patrick’s College alumni Leticia Harberger (Class of 2014/ancestor), Michelle Moore (Class of 2010/ancestor), Belinda Grech (Class of 2006/ancestor), Annaliese Mauchline (Class of 2015 and teacher/ancestor), Ebony Walker (Class of 2016 and teacher; Assistant choreographer/Dance Captain), choreographer Kyra Geoghegan (Class of 2006); Dallis McLean (Class of 2021/Wednesday Addams), Bethany Ellefson (past teacher/Assistant Director), George Rogers (Class of 2015/Lucas Beineke) and teacher Molly Rossetto (Alice Beineke) along with current students Sophie Reilly (Year 11/ancestor) and Jaxon Anderson (Year 10/ancestor) and teacher assistant Harry O’Connell (ancestor).

“The musical was a tremendous team effort by all those involved during the past three months with all making valuable contributions,” reflected Molly.

“We can’t thank the Mackay community enough for their loyal support – it was exciting to see a high number of alumni banding together with current staff and students and being involved in a quality production in the performing arts” she added.

Mackay Musical Comedy Players are now preparing for their next production Little Shop of Horrors to be staged in September.

‍

Dolly Louw is about to do something she says no one has ever done before.

The visionary principal of Mackay Fame Talent School has purchased the rights to iconic Disney musical The Lion King, representing a rare and fantastic opportunity for the children of Mackay.

It’s the first time a full-scale Disney Junior production has been staged in Mackay and will be entirely cast, acted and performed by young Mackay talent.

“It’s a very holistic artistic experience for the children that culminates in a full-scale, musical production,” Ms Louw said.

“I encourage the community to come and support the performance as the children have put in a lot of hard work and effort to make it a success.”

Laffos Bar and Pizzeria proudly announced their sponsorship of the production in May.

“We are so grateful to businesses like Laffos for supporting artistic endeavours like this,” Ms Louw said.

“It allows us to deliver sets, lighting and staging you’d expect from a full-scale Disney production.

Laffos owner Mark Laffin said it was a pleasure to support the initiative.

“My kids love Disney; all kids love Disney,” he said.

“These sorts of opportunities are always available to big city kids and never in towns like Mackay.”

Children from all over Mackay were invited to audition in February and are now rehearsing for what promises to be an amazing experience.

“We are hoping lots of people jump onto the MECC website and purchase tickets early,” Ms Louw said.

“If we receive the support, we’ll do a second show, which will be absolutely amazing for the kids.”

WHAT: Fame Talent School Presents The Lion King Junior

WHEN: Sunday, June 18 at 10:00am

WHERE: The MECC

TICKETS: www.themecc.com.au

‍

Prepare for an uproarious evening of laughter as the comic dynamo, Jimeoin, graces the stage of the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre on June 24, 2023. With his brand-new stand-up show titled 'The Craic!', Jimeoin promises to unleash his razor-sharp wit and hilarious observations on the quirks of suburban life in his signature devil-may-care style.

Renowned for his award-winning performances and universally appealing humour, Jimeoin has captivated audiences worldwide, from the UK and Europe to the USA and his beloved adopted homeland of Australia. His appearances at the prestigious Melbourne International Comedy Roadshow and his immensely successful Australian tours consistently sell out, often prompting additional shows to meet the overwhelming demand.

Don't miss the chance to experience the brilliance of Jimeoin's smash-hit show, 'Jimeoin: The Craic!', as it takes centre stage at the MECC this June.

Book your tickets online at themecc.com.au or call the box office for an evening filled with infectious laughter and comedic genius. Get ready to have your funny bone tickled by one of Australia's comedy legends!

What: Jimeoin, ‘The Craic’

When: Saturday 24 June 2023

Where: MECC Auditorium

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

‍

Internationally acclaimed 'Irish Master' Jimeoin is sure to leave audiences in stitches

‍

Friday 2 June

HeART (beats) - Access is Love exhibition

Friday, 5:30pm to 7:30pm

HeART(beats)- Access is Love Exhibition aims to help build a world where accessibility is understood as an act of love, instead of a burden or an after-thought. Crossroad Arts Inc invited all community members to respond to the theme Access is Love by creating an original artwork using any medium and in any style. Opening Night is Friday June 2 from 5:30pm - 7:30pm as part of Mackay City and Waterfront’s ‘City Heart Fridays.’ No need to book, just come along. Opening Night will be Auslan interpreted and digital image description will be available for each artwork. There will be beats from a local DJ, nibbles and drinks and a chance to admire all the artworks! Most works for sale for $40 each with proceeds going back to Crossroad Arts. Can't make opening night? The exhibition will run Monday - Friday until Friday August 4.

Crossroad Arts Inc

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Keep The Speed Off The Street

Friday, 6:00pm to 10:00pm

Race your mates in a safe and controlled environment! All cars and bikes welcome. More info on what is required is available on the Palmyra Dragway website.

Palmyra Drag Racing Club Inc

Saturday 3 June

Mackay Basketball v Logan Thunder

Saturday, 6:00pm

Mackay Meteorettes and Meteors take on Logan Thunder at the Crater.

Mackay Basketball Stadium

June Film Night: ON THE WATERFRONT

Saturday, 7:30pm

Join Film & Arts Mackay for a once-in-a-lifetime waterfront screening of one of the most iconic films out of Hollywood in Mackay’s very own pop-up cinema at Paxton’s Warehouse on Saturday, 3rd June starting at 7.30pm.

Paxton’s Night Markets

Pizza For A Purpose

Saturday, from 9:30am

Members of the public are encouraged to go down to Laffos on June 3 for a raft of pizza-eating competitions with all food supplied by Laffos. Funds raised will support suicide prevention with the Grapevine Group.

Laffos, Caneland Central

Sunday 4 June

BMA Mackay Marina Run

Sunday, 6:00am

Discover why Mackay Marina Run is regarded as Queensland’s most scenic running event. A flat, fast course set against spectacular sub-tropical scenery – the perfect platform for achieving your next PB. Held annually on the first Sunday in June, the stunning 21.1km race winds through the coastal city showcasing the very best scenery of the region. From a 3km kids dash and 5km fun run to more advanced runs, there are categories and courses to suit all motivations.

Mackay Harbour

Visiting Preacher Returns To Mackay

Sunday, 9:15am

Rev. Dr Solmon Zwana, former general secretary of the Zimbabwean Council of Churches, returns to Mackay for a weekend of activities starting on Friday night at 7pm at St Paul's and culminating with a combined service and shared lunch at 9.15am on Sunday at St Paul's led by members of the Zimbabwean community and a pleasant Sunday afternoon at 2.15pm at Calen Uniting Church. For more information contact the Rev. Dr Julia Pitman 0411 094 185.

St Paul's Uniting Church

Family Fun Day

Sunday, 10:00am to 2:00pm

The annual Mackay Hospital Foundation Family Fun Day is back, bigger and better than ever in 2023. With heaps of fun for the whole family, just $5 per person will get you unlimited access to the huge variety of activities and rides, plus browse the market stalls and sample the delights from a variety of delicious food and coffee vendors. Take a seat and enjoy the tasteful tunes of Australian Idol’s Noah Cookson and pass the footy with Broncos, Maroons and Australia rugby league legend Sam Thaiday, all the while raising funds for Mackay Hospital Foundation.

BB Print Stadium

Sunday Live Music – Lucid Wings

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

Monday 5 June

Boogie Bounce Mackay Community Walking Group

Monday, 9:30am

Walk with Boogie Bounce Community on the first Monday morning of each month. Meet on the deck at the Botanic Gardens at 9:30am, have a casual walk around the gardens to get your steps up. All welcome.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Wednesday 7 June

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

Thursday 8 June

Homeless Expo

Thursday, 10:00am to 1:00pm

Housing providers, medical services, flu vaccinations, community services, haircuts, blankets, tea, coffee and food will be available at the Homeless Expo, facilitated by CASA at the undercover basketball area at CQU Mackay Campus.

CQU Mackay Campus, Sydney Street

Chair Yoga in North Mackay

Every Thursday, 2:00pm

Using a chair for support (either sitting or standing) Chair Yoga is a practice of gentle movement, combined with mindful breathing & meditation. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to focus on a gentle, nurturing practice. Chair Yoga can improve your balance, flexibility, concentration & strength, while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain. Bookings are essential. Call or text your full name to 0434 940 300 or message the Wellness With Deb Facebook page.

Palmview Village Community Centre, via Oasis Drive / Bradford St.

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

‍

‘Song Contest - The Almost Eurovision Experience'

Experience the glitz, the glamour, and the hilarious madness of CQUniversity's Bachelor of Theatre students as they unleash their uproarious new musical parody, Song Contest - the almost Eurovision experience. Get ready for a night of unforgettable performances that will transport you to Eurovision's dazzling world.

The students will present five performances at Mackay’s Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) from Friday, 16 June.

With eleven countries competing, an array of anxious contestants, and an over-the-top hostess, this comedic and loving tribute to Eurovision is as close to the real thing as you can get.

Competing countries include Hungary, Germany, Sweden, Poland, Greece, Italy, Iceland, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Ukraine, and Norway.

The show also features all original songs, including wind-blown hair power ballads, pretty glitter boy pop, soulful groove, and all manner of patriotic foolishness.

Associate Lecturer in Theatre and Acting, Matt Young has been working with the students over the past few months to prepare them for the performance.

“The show is an exhausting but ultimately an affordable, uplifting top night out, with everything about this mingled comedy and music act sure to delight and make you cringe at the same time,” Mr Young said.

“The songs are top shelf and sound just like something you have heard before on Eurovision, only different and a bit wrong."

Head of Course for the Bachelor of Theatre, Dr Linda Lorenza said the performance will provide an interactive theatrical experience like no other, with the audience getting to participate.

“Just like real the Eurovision, Song Contest audiences will actually vote using an online voting system at each performance!  Every performance will have a different winner, an unpredictable Act 2” she said.

“It is exciting to bring this new kind of interactive theatrical experience to the Mackay community.”

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience this unique theatre experience. This show is recommended for ages 13 and up.

What: Song Contest - the almost Eurovision experience

When: Friday, 16 June 2023 – 10:30 am and 7:30 pm

Saturday, 17 June 2023 – 2 pm and 7:30 pm

Sunday, 18 June 2023 – 2 pm

Where: CQCM Theatre, Boundary Road

Tickets: cqu.edu.au

‍

By Sam Gillespie

Much like the Bee Gees, Luke, Sarah and Ryan Dunn are three siblings following their music dreams.

Unlike the Bee Gees, the Mackay “family band” are impressing local crowds with their fresh take on indie punk music, fusing all their favourite genres to create a unique sound.

Their band, Red Veridian, takes its name from the colours Luke, Sarah and Ryan associate with this sound, with red and viridian sitting almost opposite each other on the colour wheel.

“What the name has actually come to mean is duality and we try to encompass that with genres, lyrical content, everything the music encompasses,” said guitarist Luke.

Luke’s obsession with punk music and guitars started at the age of 13 and, being the oldest sibling, his taste heavily influenced that of Sarah and Ryan.

“That’s how Ryan got forced into starting drums because the parents decided he was going to be a drummer and bought him a drum kit,” Luke said.

“I didn’t even really like drums when I first started playing them,” laughed Ryan.

The boys began jamming together in 2017, ultimately forming another local band, Subservia, while Sarah’s singing background was in musical theatre.

It wasn’t until the outbreak of the pandemic, with Sarah moving home from Sydney, that she started writing music with Luke after he’d recently left Subservia.

“I was out with a vengeance,” Luke laughed.

“I wanted to create something better.

“I think Subservia’s awesome, but that was one of the motivating forces.”

Ryan, who still drums for Subservia and lives with Luke at the time, had already agreed to play music with his siblings once they’d started writing, and so Red Veridian was formed.

The trio agreed that being in a band with siblings brings with it certain perks.

“Siblings don’t mind giving it to each other a bit,” laughed Luke.

“And letting them know that you’ve taken it too far,” added Sarah.

“But then you always cool down and come back and it’s never actually a problem.

“We all have a really good relationship.

“The dynamic is good but just a bit more honest.”

Drawing on those punk influences from their childhood, the Dunns’ listening has varied drastically throughout the years as they aim to incorporate elements of indie, blues, jazz, folk, metal and hardcore.

They’re coming through in a Mackay music scene that they said is now livelier and more diverse than ever before.

“There’s actually a fair few bands in Mackay now which is good to see,” said Ryan.

“When Subservia started up in 2017, there was really only a handful of bands.

“There’s now a few younger bands starting up which is awesome.”

Having played local venues like Empire, Hotel Mackay and Harrup Park, Red Veridian deliver an energetic live show that truly encapsulates their diverse catalogue of influences.

They’re excited to play at Pocket Sessions on Saturday, August 5 with more gig announcements to come.

Red Veridian’s debut single ‘Silver Mantle’, a punchy punk tune released in April, is a perfect introduction to the band and comes before their second single, ‘Glass Houses’, which hits streaming services tomorrow, Saturday June 3.

“Glass Houses goes heavier and softer and everything in between,” said Luke.

The singles come off the band’s debut album, ‘Misconceived Felonies and Rabbits From The Hat’, which they will be releasing to the world in two parts over the next few months.

‍

‍

Luke, Sarah and Ryan Dunn of Red Veridian. Photo supplied

‍

Everyone is invited to hear the Rev. Dr Solmon Zwana, National Chaplain to Zimbabwean Methodists in Australia and Oceania, speak at meetings at St Paul’s Uniting Church on 2-4 June and on Sunday 4 June when he will preach at a combined service at 9.15am at St Paul’s Uniting Church and at 2.15pm at Calen Uniting Church. Dr Zwana will also speak at St Paul’s on Friday 2 June at 7pm.

‘The Uniting Church is your church,’ says Solmon to Methodist Zimbabweans looking for the Methodist Church in Australia. At church union in 1977, the Methodist Church of Australasia joined the Uniting Church in Australia, so when migrants come to Australia looking for their church, they can struggle to find it. ‘The Methodist Church continues in the Uniting Church.’ The Uniting Church is also the continuing church of Reformed and Congregational Churches around the world and encourages migrant members of all three churches to join their local Uniting Church and to contribute to its life.

The program includes the Salvation Army Red Shield Appeal launch, a day trip to Eungella, a Mackay Churches Together social, a combined service on Sunday led by Zimbabwean church members and the Mackay Zimbabwean community and a pleasant Sunday afternoon at Calen. Everyone is welcome to join us! For more information contact the Rev. Dr Julia Pitman on 0411 094 185.

‍

By Sam Gillespie

A local artist is getting ready to launch her Pioneer Valley studio and is inviting the Mackay community to get involved.

Charlene Attard has been practising art since taking art lessons with legendary Mackay artist Rosemary Payne at age 12 and has been teaching art throughout Queensland for over 20 years.

In trying to balance teaching and practising art, Ms Attard has established a studio, gallery and workshop space on her property in Netherdale called ‘The Brae’.

“I’ve never forgotten about the drive to be an artist, it’s always still been there, and I think being busy with teaching and raising a young family, I still needed to do something about continuing my work as an artist,” she said.

Ms Attard’s studio is launching as part of the Mackay Art Studio Trail, an event held throughout the Mackay Festival of Arts.

The Brae will host an opening night on Saturday, June 24, inviting artists and community members together to enjoy a night of art, live music, food and drinks.

From Sunday, June 26 to Saturday, July 15, Ms Attard will facilitate art workshops for all age groups using a variety of mediums including watercolour, printmaking, mixed media.

She said the theme of the workshops will be ‘Up Close and Far Away’.

“We’ve got 360-degree mountain views of the Pioneer Valley where we are so I’m going to be encouraging people to think about the landscape not just in a broad term but think about the experience of the landscape up close,” she said.

The gallery will also be open by appointment throughout the Mackay Festival of Arts, displaying the work of Ms Attard and five other local artists.

Ms Attard is looking forward to sharing her gift with the community as she does in her role as an art teacher at Whitsunday Anglican School, saying teaching and practicing art are interrelated.

“I think that my practice informs my teaching, and my teaching informs my practice,” she said.

“Jumping onboard with this trail and moving forward with our plans for the studio is me trying to find a better balance between working as an artist and working as an art teacher.”

For more information, visit charleneattard.com.au or Charlene Attard Artist on Facebook.

‍

Charlene Attard is launching her studio as part of the Mackay Festival of Arts’ Mackay Art Studio Trail. Photo supplied

‍

Friday 26 May

Marion Family Carnival

Friday, 5.30pm to Sunday 9pm

Get together and experience the fun at the annual Marion Family Carnival this May! With free entry, tonnes of fun rides and alley games, everyone will be entertained. Don’t forget all the food, including ice cream, fairy floss, and dagwood dogs. For $40, you can get an unlimited ride armband!

Marion Church Grounds

Saturday 27 May

Metal Fest Relaunch

Saturday, from 8.30pm

This Mackay favourite is back for 2023, with two new headliners. Don’t miss Gutterfire, Forest, and Systematic Machine, plus so much more! Tickets at only $17.19, available from Eventbrite, or $20 at the door.

Empire Alternacade and Events

Mayfair 2023

Saturday, 4pm – 8pm

Mackay West State School’s Mayfair is on with a great variety of activities, food stalls, games, live entertainment, including musical performances and the chance to dunk teachers! This afternoon will be fun for the entire family.

Mackay West State School

The Beatles’ Rooftop Concert

Saturday, from 7.30pm

The iconic band is back and ready to recreate their most infamous concert ever! Brought to Mackay by intimate tribute band, The Honey Sliders, this concert is setting up to be one of the best and most respectful and tasteful tribute acts of The Beatles! Tickets are available from themecc.com.au

Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

Sunday 28 May

Emergency Services Day

Sunday, from 10am

In this family fun day, learn from the local emergency services, with workshops, demonstrations, and activities. Chat with firefighters, paramedics and police officers, and get your photo taken in all the vehicles that will be on show.

Harrup Park

Million Paws Walk

Sunday, 8am – 12pm

Raise funds for RSPCA while walking and socialising your fur baby this weekend! The RSPCA Million Paws Walk is a great opportunity to meet other dog owners, get your exercise in and help a great cause. There will be food vans, live family entertainment, market stalls and raffles afterwards, so it is set to be a great family day.

Queens Park

Mackay Churches Together Pentecost Service – Walk of Witness

Sunday, from 4pm

Join the Mackay Churches Pentecost service, walking through the streets of Mackay with prayers and accompanied with the Mackay and District Pipe Band. The walk will include three city churches and finish at St Paul’s Uniting Church with a rest, pray and listen to Mavis Braithwaite on the organ. Wear red, orange, and yellow for Pentecost, and bring supper, water, hat and sunscreen. For more information, contact Dr Rosemary Dunn, Anglican Church, 0431 562 680.

St Paul’s Uniting Church, Macalister Street

Tuesday 30 May

Yoga Teacher Training Night

Tuesday, from 6.30pm

Learn the craft of being a yoga instructor through Susan Deakin’s, of Unity Yoga, dedicated classes. This intensive program allows students to become teachers in four weekends. Come along to this introductory night to learn more about the program and how to enrol.

17 Hunter Street, West Mackay

Wednesday 31 May

PainWISE Chronic Pain Movement Class

Wednesday, 10am – 11.30am

This weekly class with welcoming energy helps alleviate pains with gentle exercises given by calm and kind instructors. Aid your pain and enjoy a cup of tea afterwards with other attendees. Your first visit is free, and only $5 after that.

Split Spaces

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

State of Origin Game 1 @ Souths Leagues Club

Wednesday from 8pm

Watch the State of Origin Game 1 on the big screens at the Souths Leagues Sports Club this Wednesday. This is not a game to miss, especially with the club looking after you!

Souths Leagues Club Mackay

Thursday 1 June

Spacey Jane

Thursday, from 6pm

Massive headliner and Triple J band, Spacey Jane, are coming to Mackay for the first time ever! These tickets are selling out fast for this one day only show. Tickets are $79.90, and are available from oztix.com.au.

Harrup Park

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

‍

‍

State of Origin @ Souths Leagues Club

Spacey Jane Live At Harrup Park

The Beatles’ Return at The MECC

RSPCA Million Paws Walk

Learn the Art of Yoga with Susan Deakin

2023 Emergency Services Day

‍

Get behind the control panel of a Bell 412 rescue helicopter and speak with local firefighters at the 2023 RACQ CQ Rescue Emergency Services Day, set to be a fantastic family fun day.

Open for all the community in the region, there will be every opportunity to slip into the seat of a police car, get behind a rescue helicopter and get up close and personal with marine rescue boats and all-terrain buggies and vehicles.

There will also be tonnes of fun family entertainment, including a jumping castle and face painting, food and drink stalls and vans, and enough educational resources and games to keep everyone busy on the car ride home.

“Here’s your chance to jump aboard the region’s rescue helicopter… without being sick or injured,” said RACQ CQ Rescue CEO Tim Healee.

The event will include various educational and interactive exhibits, workshops and demonstrations, including getting a cuddle from animals rescued by the local branch of Australian Wildlife Rescue, chatting with volunteers with the State Emergency Service (SES) and Volunteer Marine Rescue.

“The day will also feature displays and demonstrations by incredible organisation who do so much good in our community, including the Rural Fire Service, Red Cross, RSPCA Mackay and Aviation Fire and Rescue Services,” Mr Healee said.

The event is aimed to display the region’s emergency services and organisations which are always helping in time of distress and need and promote effective planning and emergency procedures.

WHAT: 2023 RACQ CQ Rescue Emergency Services Day

WHERE: Harrup Park

WHEN: Sunday, May 28, 10am to 2pm

TICKETS: Gold coin donation

‍

‍

RACQ CQ Rescue crewman Ben McCauley with the emergency services’ mascots at the previous Emergency Services Day. Photo supplied

‍

This was an event not to miss, with headliners Mark Seymour, Missy Higgins, Bernard Fanning, and Paul Kelly causing chaos in the audience.

In the massive sold-out show, with 7,700 people attending, it was no surprise that you could feel the beat of the bass through the grass. Revellers could find Mark Seymour dancing with the crowd to Paul Kelly’s set, and had the chance to win signed Missy Higgins merch during her performance.

The turnout included young and old, all enjoying the serenading voices of Vika and Linda Bull, singing along to classic Bernard Fanning, and jumping up for Paul Kelly, as he ended out the night.

Legends on the Lawn acted as the official opening for the Great Barrier Reef Arena, and there was no better way to celebrate the new sporting and entertainment complex than with some of Australia’s biggest music legends and icons.

Be sure to have Legends on the Lawn marked on your calendar for 2024.

‍

Mackay Churches Together Pentecost Service

At 4pm on Sunday 28 May, in celebration of the Day of Pentecost, Christians from different denominations will walk, pray and sing together.

The spirited walk will follow the footpaths from St Paul’s Uniting Church, Macalister Street, to Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Gordon Street, to the Salvation Army, Gregory Street, and back again to St Paul’s Uniting Church.

Inspired by the Acts of the Apostles, chapter 2, the account of the coming of the Holy Spirit on people of all nations, prayers will encourage Christian unity amid world-wide fear, conflict, and deprivation, work for peace, justice and care of God’s creation, and people of all ages to demonstrate God’s love in Mackay.

Walkers may park at or near St Paul’s, drop off a plate of supper in the St Paul’s Church Hall, walk over to Holy Trinity Anglican where the prayers will start and go around three city churches accompanied by members of the Mackay and District Pipe Band.

People not able to walk may sit in St Paul’s Uniting Church, rest, pray, listen to Mavis Braithwaite play the pipe organ, and wait for others to return for final prayers, song and supper. Please wear comfortable shoes, red, orange and yellow colours for Pentecost, and bring supper, water bottle, hat and sunscreen.

Contact: Rev. Dr Rosemary Dunn, Anglican Church, 0431 562 680.

Rev. Dr Julia Pitman, Secretary, Mackay Churches Together

‍

Artist Margaret O’Neill has turned full circle with her recent return to Sarina.

Margaret, who was one of seven artists displaying their works at the Sarina Art Gallery during May, now lives at Campwin Beach with husband Gary, a place she where spent many happy holidays when she was young.

“I was born at Townsville but christened at Sarina, and I had a lot of family from here,” she said.

“I spent many happy holidays at Campwin and now we can walk the beach each day.”

Margaret was a teacher for 34 years, initially in Victoria but later in the southern Queensland district, teaching senior English and history.

One of her works, an acrylic titled Overboard, has a story to it with an artistic twist.

“Some kids were playing with a beach ball on a ship inbound to Australia and lost a beach ball overboard, never to be seen again,” she said.

“I changed it to a life ring in the painting, and the cliffs are from my memory of Port Campbell National Park and in particular Loch Ard Gorge on the Great Ocean Road on the Victorian south coast.

“Funnily enough it was mentioned on the news last night.

“They have noticed a huge crack near the stairs leading down to it and have blocked users attempting to climb down to the beach.

“Many years ago, I found a gold wedding ring there and threw it back into the sea.”

The cliffs are named after the Loch Ard which ran aground in 1878 with only two survivors.

Others displaying their works were former South African Tia Gabriella, Kerry Williams, Jodie Perna, Jenny Tibbett, Susan Day and Lenore Chapple.

The gallery, near the Sarina Sugar Shed, is open 10am-3pm daily with free admission when a display is under way.

A new exhibition will start next month.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

‍

‍

Artist Margaret O’Neill with her painting Overboard, a story of a mishap at sea with an artistic twist

Lenore Chapple’s Look Up Wisteria.

Tia Gabriella’s Gum Trees.

Susan Day’s Humpback Whales. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

‍

With the Million Paws Walk coming up, RSPCA Mackay Shelter Manager Jacqueline Smith is calling on the community to get involved after a three-year hiatus.

On Sunday, May 28, locals and their furry friends will walk and play, with every step and dollar helping to rescue, rehabilitate and rehome dogs in need just like Ms Smith’s recent adoptee Millie.

Two-year-old ridgeback Millie came into RSPCA Mackay’s care in 2022 with severe injuries to her front and back left legs after running through a barbed wire fence.

Instead of seeking professional treatment, her previous owners plastered her legs themselves.

“We would recommend seeing a vet ASAP. It’s left her with a limp, but as she’s come along, she’s improved a lot more than they thought she would’ve,” Ms Smith said.

Ms Smith fostered Millie for a couple of nights and “ended up falling love”, ultimately adopting her.

“They thought she’d have to go through all these surgeries, and I made the decision not to and she’s just healed with a lot of love and a lot of care,” she said.

“As she gets older, she will get onset arthritis earlier than most dogs, but right now she’s running like a racehorse with my other dog, so I have no worries.”

With 6,359 dogs turning to RSPCA Queensland last year for a second chance, RSPCA Queensland’s Chief Veterinarian Dr Anne Chester said Million Paws Walk is a wonderful opportunity for locals to support the 47,000 animals who require assistance and intervention from RSPCA annually.

“All funds raised go directly to the RSPCA, which includes helping us rehome over 10,0000 animals in Queensland each year,” Dr Chester said.

“Some of the 6,000 plus dogs that came into our care last year experienced awful mistreatment, abandonment or were bred to turn a profit, so each step you take at Million Paws Walk helps us in our fight to save lives.”

RSPCA Mackay has raised the most funds for 2023 so far out of all shelters in Queensland and Ms Smith sees firsthand where the funds help.

“If any animal comes into our care, at least we know the community’s helping for medicals, food or even a blanket to sleep on,” she said.

For a great dog-friendly day out, while helping to raise vital funds for animals in need, joins RSPCA Mackay at Queens Park on Sunday, May 28.

Registration opens at 8:00am and the walk will kick off at 9:00am, with food vans, market stalls, competitions, games, family entertainment and raffles, all in support of a great cause.

WHAT: Million Paws Walk

WHEN: Sunday, May 28 from 8:00am to 12:00pm

WHERE: Queens Park

REGISTRATION: www.millionpawswalk.com.au/mackay

‍

‍

Millie the ridgeback was adopted by RSPCA Mackay Shelter Manager Jacqueline Smith with the support of RSPCA. Photo supplied

‍

Sugar City Rock n Rollers Mackay is a club that has been promoting rock and roll dancing throughout the community since 1995.

The club meets weekly on a Wednesday evening for a social dance for all ages and all abilities.

“We have a bit of teaching between 7 and 8 and then from 8 to about 9:30 it’s really just a social dance and somewhere for people to practise what they’ve just learnt,” said President Colin McPherson.

“It’s four step rock and roll.

“If someone like me can do it, there’s plenty of other people who can do it, and it’s really just a fun thing to do.

“You’ll always see rock and roll dancers on the dance floor with a big smile on their face.”

The club also holds two social dances a month at Goosies, other dances throughout the year and frequently perform throughout the community including at Global Grooves and Mackay Festival of Arts.

Although it focuses on the promotion of rock and roll dance and music, there is a large social component to the club including weekends away.  

The next of these events will be held at Conway Beach Caravan Park, with the main dance on the evening of Saturday, May 27, attracting dancers and travellers from around the state.

Sugar City Rock n Rollers Mackay welcomes new members of all ages to their social Wednesday dances for a night of fun, fitness, and music.

“Once you get to learn the steps and go every week, it’s just an enjoyable activity,” Mr McPherson said.

To find out more, find Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Inc on Facebook.

‍

‍

Sugar City Rock n Rollers Mackay meet weekly of a Wednesday evening and hold many social events throughout the year. Photo supplied

‍

It’s less than a month until the fourth annual Mackay Rainbow Pride Event and organisers are hoping for their biggest event yet.

Previous years have seen around 150 people attend the lively event which kicks-off at the Bluewater Quay, with a Pride March over Pioneer River Bridge.

Colourful signs and costumes celebrate the LGBTI community, and everyone is welcome to come along and support this free event.

“The event is to tell people there is a queer community here in Mackay and also for the queer community to know there is help here if you need,” said organiser Gary Thomas.

“Fortunately, these days it is certainly more acceptable to be ‘out’ at work and in public and events like this really help.”

After the march, the parade will return to Blue Water Quay for the festivities.

So far over 15 stalls have registered and they are set to be a mixture of food vans, artists, and local crafts.

Well-known Mackay cover band, The Feels, will be performing and emceeing the event alongside other local artists.

There will also be prizes for the Best Dressed Person, the Best Dressed Pet, and the Best Dressed Vendor.

An event that brings the community together will flare, colour and freedom, the Rainbow Pride Event is sure to be a fun afternoon where everyone can relax and be themselves.

WHAT: Rainbow Pride Event

WHERE: Bluewater Quay

WHEN: Saturday, June 17

TIME: 3pm – 7pm

‍

Starting in Melbourne in 2009, No Lights No Lycra (NLNL) brings people together to dance like no one’s watching.

Rapidly spreading to 74 different countries, the initiative has recently been introduced to Mackay by two women who love to feel the rhythm, move their bodies, and clear their minds.

Anna Kahler first tried NLNL at the Sydney Opera House and recently connected with Lisa Merrett, who was a frequent NLNL participant in Melbourne before recently moving to Mackay, the pair teaming up to start the program just over a month ago.

Originating in Brunswick, NLNL is the product of professional dancers who wanted to reembrace what dancing meant to them.

“They were looking for an opportunity to dance where they didn’t feel like they were being judged and they could just enjoy dancing again,” Ms Kahler said.

It involves an hour of dancing in a safe, non-judgemental, alcohol and drug free environment, low light conditions meaning the people around you are just silhouettes.

“You have freedom to experiment with the sorts of moves you might like to do and really get carried away,” Ms Kahler said.

Ms Merrett first started NLNL for fitness, finding innumerable other benefits along the way.

“I found I carried it into my everyday life, I’d start moving more to music in general,” she said.

“It just brought out that rhythm a bit more.”

Since starting in Mackay, NLNL has amassed a loyal following of dancers, with many describing the experience as a mindful one, with the positive effects of movement and dancing being felt throughout the room.

“It’s the movement, getting embodied again and the mindfulness of the whole thing,” Ms Merrett said.

“You can listen to your body cues and decide what you want to do based on the song in that moment,” Ms Kahler added.

“It’s exercise as a celebration as opposed to a punishment.”

Both women work in the community and mental health spaces and see the need for initiatives like NLNL as a mindful experience.

“Being able to move and be grounded and be in your body is really healthy,” Ms Merrett said.

“People seem to have lost that ability of connecting with their bodies because of technology, so it’s about getting back in to being able to connect with your body.

“When we’re struggling with mental health, we can become disconnected with things, and this is just a super grounding experience.”

The casual dance session happens weekly on Wednesdays from 7-8pm at St Pauls Uniting Church.

More information, FAQs and previous playlists can be found at No Lights No Lycra Mackay on Facebook.

‍

Few children’s books have stood the test of time quite like Dr Seuss’s 200-word masterpiece ‘The Cat in the Hat’.

As the top selling children’s author of all time, the story is as popular now as it was in the 1950’s when Dr. Theodor ‘Seuss’ Geissel wrote the book.

Now both children and adults alike are sure to be left in raptures by this zany and imaginative stage show, that will bring the story to life on a 22 city, 45 show nationwide tour of Australian theatres.

The play was adapted for the stage in 2009 by the National Theatre of Great Britain and tells the story of a brother and sister, bored at home on a rainy day when they are visited by none other than ‘The Cat’ in his red and white striped Hat.

Their outspoken and outraged pet, Fish, is astounded and concerned, but this cat will not be deterred.

He will teach us all to make our own fun with nothing but a little imagination.

"It's fun to have fun, but you have to know how."

Along with his friends, Thing One and Thing Two, they turn the house upside down leaving mess everywhere but have no fear, The Cat brings in his red ‘Picker-Up Machine’ and all is back to normal before Mum walks back in the door.

So, if you’re looking for ideas for your Thing 1 and 2 this coming school holidays, come and share in the magic and mystery of live theatre at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre.

Spoiler alert: Things run amuck, and quickly!

For more information, please visit www.themecccom.au

‍

Friday 19 May

Nebo Rodeo

Friday 19, from 4.30pm and Saturday 20, 8am to 12am

The infamous Nebo Rodeo is back and better than ever. Friday has eat street, kids entertainment, dodgem cars, and the best stalls around. Saturday will have the main events, with the sounds of Luke Geiger to carry us out afterwards. There are no tickets available at the gate, so be sure to purchase beforehand at oztix.com.au

Nebo Showgrounds

Nebo Hotel Street Party

Friday 19, 4.30pm to 11.45pm

The party of the year is back. Showcasing the likes of the Wolfe Brothers, LG & Biig G Sxxc, Zac & George, and Layla Gossage, plus kids entertainment and this event will have fun for the whole family. Tickets are available at oztix.com.au

Nebo Hotel

Mackay Expo

Friday 19 to Sunday 21

Come to the Mackay Expo and check out the newest range of the best camping, home, and lifestyle. No matter the home project or dream inspiration, this expo has something for everyone, be it a new campervan, a fantastic garden display, or pest control options. Be sure to purchase tickets at mackayexpo.com.au

Mackay Showgrounds

Saturday 20 May

Legends on the Lawn

Saturday, from 12.30pm

Another epic music event for Mackay, Legends on the Lawn is set to be an event not to be missed. Having the likes of Missy Higgins, Troy Cassar-Daley, Paul Kelly, and Mark Seymour, all the classic hits will have the audience dancing and singing-along. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster.

Great Barrier Reef Arena

Mother’s Day Make and Take

Saturday, 2pm to 5pm

A special afternoon for a special lady, relax and make some soft and nourishing body products, and being treated with lovely, delicious treats. Tickets are $66 per person and available through the Essential Moon Magick Facebook page.

Campwin Beach

Unify Off The Record

Saturday, from 6pm

A powerful night of music, the Unify Off The Record show is coming to Mackay. With Thornill, Banks Arcade, Young Lions, Wildheart and Arcade Stories, this will be a great night of every music lover, with artist signings, pop up stores, and workshops also on offer. Tickets available through oztix.com.au

Seabreeze Hotel

Sunday 21 May

Create Your Own Junk Journal

Sunday, 9am to 1pm

Run by Pioneer Valley Arts, this workshop will teach you all about making your own junk journal and explore your messy creative side. Tickets are $85.

Elsie Nash Street, Pinnacle

Laura’s Triathlon

Sunday, from 6am

In memoriam of Laura Pettifer, local triathlete who passed away in 2008 after a Collinson during a mountain bike training ride. There are two categories with four events, the triathlon, duathlon, aquathlon and aquabike. Tickets are available through allevents.com

Mackay Harbour Beach

Tuesday 23 May

Rock and Roll with Sarina Crocodile Rockers

Every Tuesday, 6.45pm to 9.30pm

The 50s and 60s dance is coming back and the Sarina Crocodile Rockers are making it happen! This all-inclusive dance lesson will get even the worst dancer matching the beat.

Sarina Cultural Hall

Wednesday 24 May

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

Thursday 25 May

Chair Yoga in North Mackay

Every Thursday, 2:00pm

Using a chair for support (either sitting or standing) Chair Yoga is a practice of gentle movement, combined with mindful breathing & meditation. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to focus on a gentle, nurturing practice. Chair Yoga can improve your balance, flexibility, concentration & strength, while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain. Bookings are essential. Call or text your full name to 0434 940 300 or message the Wellness With Deb Facebook page.

Palmview Village Community Centre, via Oasis Drive / Bradford St.

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

National Simultaneous Storytime with Music and Movement with Cassie

Thursday, 9.15am

Join Cassie for the National Simultaneous Storytime reading The Speedy Sloth by Rebecca Young and Heath Mckenzie.

Studio 53, Gregory Street, Mackay

‍

It is less than three weeks away from the exciting 2023 return of Mackay’s Legends on the Lawn.

With a massive lineup of Paul Kelly, Missy Higgins, Bernard Fanning, Mark Seymour, Vika and Linda, and Ian Moss and Troy Cassar-Daley, it is no surprise that locals are ecstatic.

Having been touring since January, Troy Cassar-Daley sat down with Mackay Life’s Bronte to talk about the upcoming festival.

What drew you to Legends on the Lawn?

I saw it first on Facebook actually. And wow, I thought. I think Jimmy Barnes played and I didn’t realise that the year following, I’d be asked to go.

I just happened to be a part of this huge tour and for this show to be in Mackay is incredible. I think people will see this lineup and know it’s something extra special. Paul Kelly is nothing but class, and then you’ve got Bernard Fanning, Queensland royalty, Missy Higgins who is song writing royalty. Mark Seymour is a great mate, and we’re both mad on old fashioned things like watches.

I mean, no matter what artist you’re into, the most important thing for me has been just seeing the cross collaborations between some of the artists.

It’s a really incredibly lineup and I’m very excited.

What can audiences expect from you?

I think people can expect some of the most incredible song writing that you’ll see in one night. You feel like you’re 18 and at the pub again, singing alone with all your friends to a local cover band, but you’re watching the actual real bloke that wrote it.

We play a couple of things that are from 50 Songs 50 Towns, and so to have Ian Moss and myself play on stage is the best. He’s playing on Born to Survive and stuff like that, and I’m playing on Tucker’s Daughter, you know. When you’re playing with someone that you really like, it doesn’t get any better.

I reckon that people will just sit back and just in their chairs and love every minute.

What’s your favourite thing about the area of Mackay?

I love the river. I’ve always drawn to it. Ever since I used to go to there in my 20s, I went through my first trip through the area with a lady named Gina Jefferies when I was very, very young. And the first thing I did was I had my handline in my bag. And I went down to the river, and in those days, no one talked about crocodiles. But I’ve always been drawn to the river.

And every time I go to Mackay, whether we played at the Bowls club, or we’ve done the Entertainment Centre, I always find myself sitting on the bank having a feed, just watching the river flow. It’s just an incredibly part of the world.

Any last things you wish to share?

I mean, look, these line-ups over the years have been rock and roll. The organisers of Legends on the Lawn have this uncanny ability to put these line-ups together that just work so well. We look forward to being able to invite people out.

And this lineup, its just a lot of iconic songs that are going to be falling into your lap and you get the chance to sit there and have a drink and enjoy it.

WHAT: Legends on the Lawn

WHEN: Saturday May 20, 1pm to 9.30pm

WHERE: Great Barrier Reef Arena

TICKETS: legendsonthelawn.com.au

‍

‍

Troy Cassar-Daley is one massive headliner of 2023 Legends on the Lawn festival. Photo supplied

‍

A beautiful quilt made by a late Sarina crafter has gone to a good home.

Lilian Brown won the quilt made by Dulcie Christensen, first prize in the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre mega raffle drawn just in time for Mother’s Day.

Lilian and Dulcie spent many years working on crafts together at the Sarina Fibre Arts Group and as supporters of the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre.

The quilt was donated by Dulcie’s son Glen after she sadly passed away last week.

It was one of five prizes in the raffle, which was drawn by Jon Eaton of the Sarina Men’s Shed.

Gail Tomerini won a hamper packed with goodies from the Sarina Sugar Shed, Bees 2U, Sharon Price, Celia Gutschlag, Adorabull Treats, Koko Loko, Zelenka Farm and Heather Coleman.

Rosemary Rowles won a corner-to-corner rug made by Jenny Costello, and Genny Axiak won a tea cosy and teapot made by Jenny Price.

Sharon Price won a $50 petrol voucher donated by Rhonda and Charlie Payne.

“We’d like to thank everyone for supporting the raffle which has raised valuable funds for the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre,” centre manager Jenny Costello said.

“And a big thank you to our crafters and volunteers who got behind the raffle by selling tickets.”

Contributed by Charlie Payne

‍

‍

Lilian Brown holds the late Dulcie Christensen’s quilt, first prize in the Sarina Arts and Crafts raffle

Margaret Schwarzrock and Jenny Costello help Jon Eaton of the Sarina Men’s Shed draw the raffle. Photo credit: Rhonda Payne

‍

Have you ever wanted to try your hand at jewellery making, weaving, felting, yarn and textile working, or charcoal drawing, but wanted some detailed instruction first?

Why not take part in The Artist Place’s workshops at Queens Park.

The Artist Place is a community art group, who allows people to try their hand at a broad range of art mediums in workshops and classes with local artists.

In this mammoth week of 11 workshops, attendees will be given dedicated instruction and intimate help, in order to craft their own art piece.

There are also three Come and Play sessions, free for anyone in the community. This is a fantastic opportunity to come along and play with the wide range of materials and mediums on offer in the shed.

WHAT: The Artist Place Workshops

WHEN: Sunday May 27 to Sunday June 4

WHERE: Cricket Shed in Queens Park

TICKETS: Humanitix.com – search ‘The Artist Place’

‍

SAT 27 MAY

Collage - 10.00 -2.30

Rejuvenate your Bling - 1.30 – 4.00

SUN 28 MAY

Charcoal Drawing on Wood - 10.00 -2.30

Drum Circle - 12.30–2.30

Printmaking - 1.30 – 5.30

MON 29 MAY

Vessel Felting - 11.00–2.30

TUES 30 MAY

Scratching the Surface - 10.00 -2.30

WED 31 MAY

Come and Play - 10.00–3.00

THURS 1 JUNE

Come and Play - 10.00–3.00

FRI 2 JUNE

Come and Play - 10.00–3.00

SAT 3 JUNE

Water Colour Painting I - 10.00 -2.30

Water Colour Painting II - 1.30 – 4.00

SUN 4 JUNE

Cardboard loom Weaving - 10.00 -2.30

Textile Wall hanging - 1.30 – 4.00

Drum Circle - 2.30 -4.30

‍

Come along to Queens Park and learn from local artists

‍

For the second year in a row, Magpies Sporting Club is hosting a Biggest Morning Tea event to raise money for Cancer Council and improve the lives of those affected by cancer.

Everyone is welcome to attend this vibrant charity function which will take place on The Deck, where guests will enjoy a decadent morning tea with barista coffee.

An inspirational guest speaker from the Icon Cancer Centre Mackay will inform and tickets are just $25 per person, with all proceeds going directly to the Cancer Council.

“This event is a great opportunity for the community to come together and support a vital cause,” said Kate Godfrey from Magpies Sporting Club.

“With an estimated 162,163 Australians diagnosed with cancer in 2022 alone, it is more important than ever to raise awareness and funds for cancer research and treatment.”

WHEN: Wednesday, May 24

TIME: 10am-11.30am

WHERE: The Deck, Magpies Sporting Club

COST: $25 per person

TICKETS www.magpiesmackay.com.au or Magpies Reception

‍

Last years’ Biggest Morning Tea. Photo supplied

‍

Prepare to be amazed by the performance of the year, with the Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine taking over the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre this June.

This internationally touring performance will keep audiences hooked, encompassing two magical stories that will be sure to keep audiences enraptured in the touching choreography and fantastic cinematography.

The first act follows the Ukrainian story, Forest Song, and reflects Ukrainian culture and heritage. Forest Song follows Lukash, a human man, and a mystical creature, named Mavka. Mavka wishes for peace and tranquillity in her world, drawing parallels to Ukraine and its political unease.

The second act is Don Quixote, an energetic Spanish ballet following the romance of a courageous young man and his search for love.

Both acts include extravagant and lavish choreography and costuming, with intimately and honestly intricate songs, duets, and breathtaking music.

The Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine was formed by National Opera of Ukraine dancer Alexander Stoyanov in 2014 and has been touring the globe brining the Ukrainian ballet to the likes of New Zealand, China, America, and South America.

WHAT: The Grand Kyiv Ballet of Ukraine

WHEN: Saturday and Sunday, June 10 and 11

WHERE: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

TICKETS: themecc.com.au

‍

The ballet of Ukraine is coming to Mackay, in a beautiful display of love, loss, and tender moments.

‍

For the month of May, the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens are celebrating their birthday.

On May 24, 2003, the Mackay botanic gardens officially opened, marking a goal accomplished of the Mackay Association.

Since then, the Botanic Gardens have gone through stages of redevelopment and redesign including constructing new gardens, permanent wetland, to highlight the various water plants, and a kids play garden in 2006, and restoring and rehabilitating frost-damaged and drowned plants in 2007 and 2008.

In order to celebrate the gardens 20th birthday, the Botanic Gardens will be holding a series of events for the community.

Every Friday through May, and June 2, visitors can take part in a free guided walk, learning about the gardens and features different plants and aspects of the grounds.

On May 6, the gardens are hosting a daisy planting day, creating a daisy meadow on the lagoon banks.

There will be composting workshops of Saturday May 20, to educate participates on worms, composting and gardening, adding nutrients to home gardens. There is also the chance to win a worm farm.

For children, on Saturday, May 27, join an insect hotel workshop, to learn about native bees and other insects that help gardens, and build an insect hotel to attract insects into gardens.

For plant lovers, there will be a plant sale, on Saturday June 3, of native plants, grown by Native Plants Queensland – Society for Growing Australian Plants Mackay branch.

No matter how much or how little of a plant and garden enthusiast, there is something for everyone. Visit mackayregionalbotanicgardens.com.au for more information, or how to register to events.

‍

‍

Join the Mackay Botanic Gardens as they celebrate 20 years

‍

The world is their oyster for a group which visited the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre.

The World Café group enjoyed a morning tea before viewing the centre’s crafts.

It is a free culture-sharing group which meets every Tuesday at 4 George Street, Mackay (the Annex) between February and November from 10 am to 12.30 pm.

Activities include cooking, art and craft, conversational games, small projects, workshops, information sessions, culture and conversations and local excursions.

For more information phone (07) 4957 7222.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

‍

World Café group members from left Kaye Humphreys, Mary Gardner, Gail Ruse, Raelene Cant, Ernie Roh, Edyta Konopka, Raph Maglente, Svan Stephenson, Kamlawati Singh, Maedel Maglente, Ruth Bell, Kitty Yuen, Rydell Hansen and Maureen Solager at the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre. Joining them for morning tea were Arts and Crafts members Jenny Costello and Marg Hinrichs, at back right. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

‍

Star Wars fans had two reasons to celebrate last week, with the launch of Mackay’s newest arcade, bar and pop culture hangout, Arcadia Bar, falling on Star Wars Day.

Arcadia Bar opened to the public last Friday, May 5 complete with themed drinks, games, and food.

‍

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Friday 5 May

Luke Geiger Live At Harrup Park

Friday, 6pm to 10pm

Luke Geiger is performing at Harrup Park Country Club this Friday. No bookings required and no ticket needed, this will be a great free event for everyone.

Harrup Park Country Club

Elvis One Night In Vegas

Friday, from 7.30pm

Mark Anthony is returning as Elvis in this one night only experience. Mark will push audiences back in time and reminisce on the legend of music, playing all the greatest hits.

Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre

Saturday 6 May

Daisy Day

Saturday, 8.30am to 12pm

Show your love for the Mackay Botanic Gardens and plant over 1,000 Golden Everlasting Daises across the slopes of the Lagoons. Be sure to contact Maya to participate 0436 331 009, or mackayrbgfriends@gmail.com

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

The Smurfs Great Escape

Saturday, 9am to 5pm

In this new immersive escape room-esque game, save the Smurfs from Gargamel and follow a scavenger hunt through the streets of Mackay. In this family friendly experience, you compete against other teams and race against the clock. Tickets available from Eventsonthehorizon.com

Mackay

ZACH MACH Mackay Adventure Challenge

Saturday, 8am to 5pm

Dust off your mountain bike and get your kayak reading, the ZACH MACH Adventure Challenge is gearing up for another round. Mountain Bike down Mia Mia, kayak the Teemburrra Dam, run through the rainforest and ride past cane paddocks, in this epic challenge.

Pinnacle, Queensland

MKC Sugar City Titles

Saturday, 7am to 9pm

Get those karts out of the shed, it’s time to race! All classes of kart accepted, and all race licenses recognised. This will be a day of full of fun for the whole family.

21 Grants Road, Palmyra

Sunday 7 May

Seaforth Mega Markets

Sunday, 8am to 12pm

The Mega Markets are back, showcasing the best of Mackay’s homemade goodies, fresh fruit and veg, plants, and food vendors.

Seaforth

Volunteer Expo 2023

Sunday, 9am to 12pm

Come down to the Mackay Showgrounds and see how you can give back to your community, with local community groups and charities promoting their opportunities for volunteering.

Mackay Showgrounds

Sarina Country Music Family Afternoon

Sunday, from 1pm

Bring your originals or even your favourite songs and celebrate the love of country music at the Sarina Sporting and Services League. With the best of backing bands, sing along to fantastic country music in this family friendly afternoon. Tickets at $5

Sarina Sporting and Services League

Mackay Urban Gelsoft Games

Sunday, 3.30pm to 7.30pm

In this hectic day, test your blaster game with all types of players, 10 years and up, welcome. Bookings are strongly encouraged so get signed up and prepare yourself for an adrenaline fuelled afternoon.

Mackay North State High School

Thursday 11 May

MADSCOTS Whiskey Night

Thursday, from 6.30pm

In a year second, MADSCOTS are holding another Whiskey Night, a fantastic opportunity to taste all the unique whiskies from around the world.

The Dispensary Mackay

Bjorn Again – Thank You For The Music Tour

Thursday, 7.30pm

In a one day show only, Bjorn Again is showcasing their love and dedication to the powerhouse ABBA, in this sing-along, dance-along experience. Tickets begin from $73 and available from themecc.com.au

Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

‍

New concrete has been poured and rev heads in Mackay are getting ready.

The Sugar City Burnouts is quickly approaching and there is no time to wait.

It is no joke about this burn out shows, with audiences and drivers alike eager for the smoke and surprise of the show.

In its 5th year, the 2023 Sugar City Burnout are upping the stakes, making this a show to not miss.

After a pre-event was postponed in March due to poor weather making the Palmyra Drag Racing Club dragway dangerous for drivers, the Sugar City Burnout competition is a welcome return, taking place on the second weekend in May.

On the lineup including pro, eight and six cylinders, and ladies class entrants, including the local six-cylinder CURRYINAHURRY Sugar City Taxi and with entrants coming from as far as Townsville to Wagga Wagga in New South Wales.

With a re-invigorated dragstrip and pad, being extended an extra 10 metres, now totalling 65.3 metres long, with a 22-metre tip in.

The day jampacked with the screech of tyre skidding, smoke blowing, and engines roaring, and with this event being a highlight on the drag and burn out calendar, this is one not to miss on the Mackay calendar.

With a prize pool worth $8,500 across all classes, this competition will have strength, smoke, and high speed tipins.

WHAT: Sugar City Burnouts

WHERE: Palmyra Drag Racing Club, Mackay

WHEN: Saturday, May 13,

TICKETS: mackaytickets.com.au

‍

Join the smoke, engine screech and family laughter at the 2023 Sugar City Burnouts

‍

Mackay Scale Modellers Club hosted its 29th annual exhibition and Model Competition in St Paul’s Uniting Church hall last weekend – attracting enthusiasts from as far as Townsville, Cairns, Rockhampton and Brisbane.

Sponsored by Outlaw Paints and BBs Hobbies Mackay, the judges were impressed by the 150 entries lodged that featured intricate scale models of a variety of subjects including nautical, military, aviation and civil historical themes, spiced up with fantasy and science fiction.

Brent Wood was the recipient of the Greg Martin Memorial Award for Best on Show (Logging Camp) – an award that perpetuates the memory of the Club’s founder with partner Vicki Ayre on hand to present the prize.

Club President Wayne Belzer of BBs Hobbies thanked major sponsor Outlaw Paints for their tremendous support and his tireless team for their work behind the scenes.

“Models on show included scratch-built creations and these scale replicas are the result of the labour of love of talented model makers who worked patiently and diligently for hours to make intricate miniature replicas out of diverse materials,” he said.

Winning modellers were: JUNIOR: Cars & Figures Fictional: Sidney Newlands; Science Fiction & Wooden Models: Alexander Newlands; LEGO & Model Railways: Dallas Head; SENIORS: Aircraft Large Scale: Alvin Whyte; Motorcycles: Greg Canning; Military Vehicle Small Scale: Greg Canning; All Types & Large Scale Tracked: Alvin Whyte; Large Scale Wheeled: Chris Bean; Miscellaneous: Dimi Markou; Scratchbuilt: Rob Farlow; Science Fiction: Ross Moore; Ships Powered: Jeremy Cahill; War Vehicles Gaming Figures: Alvin Whyte; Aircraft Small Scale: Brad Hurley; Cars Modified: Jason Waddell; Cars Out of Box: Alvin Whyte; Cartoon & Egg Models: Ross Moore; Trucks & Civil Vehicles: Jason Waddell; Dioramas & Vignettes: Adam Robins & Brent Wood; Figures Actual: Jeremy Cahill; Fictional: Ross Moore; LEGO Senior: Scott Newland & Myles Somerset; Rail Layouts LEGO Senior: Myles Somerset; Aircraft Display: Myles Somerset; Best World War 2 Model: Tony Hill; Military Vehicle Large Scale: Chris Bean; People’s Choice: Simon Blom.

‍

‍

Mackay Scale Modellers Club President Wayne Belzer (standing far right) with this year’s exhibition competition winners L-R Simon Blom, Rob Farlow, Brent Wood, Ross Moore, Dallas Head, Scott Newlands, Jeremy Cahill, Adam Robins and Alvin Whyte (seated)

Brent Wood receives the Greg Martin Memorial Award for Best on Show (Logging Camp) from the late Modellers Club founder’s partner Vicki Ayre and Club President Wayne Belzer

Lego models filled the exhibit. Photo credit: Chris Karas

‍

Paul Tabone is returning to his roots, bringing his Golden Days show to Mackay in May.

After four years of performing in London’s West End and hanging up his time on Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, playing Ubaldo Piangi, Paul has announced his massive Australian show, Goldens Days: Songs from the Movies and Musicals.

This mammoth of a touring show has Paul travelling lengths of Australia, showcasing his tenor and musical range.

The performance takes audiences on a journey, including much loved classics from the ‘Golden Age’ of music, and drawing on more contemporary favourites, including Disney and popular musicals, including The Student Prince, The Phantom of the Opera and Toast of New Orleans.

Highlight performances include ‘Love Changes Everything’, ‘Bring Him Home’ and ‘Oh, What a Beautiful Morning’.

Moving through decades of music and fantastic inspiration, Paul leaves no member of the audience behind, guiding them through his performance magically.

He will be sharing the stage with friend and past lecturer Professor Judith Brown, with guest appearances of Madison Crase and Isabella Davison.

Being dubbed the ‘tenor from Oz’ is high acclaim, and Paul Tabone does not disappoint. Paul and his Golden Days tour will be at Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM Music, Boundary Road), on Sunday, May 14, at 1pm.

WHAT: Paul Tabone presents Golden Days

WHEN: Sunday, May 14

WHERE: Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music

TICKETS: cqcm.edu.au

‍

Paul Tabone, dubbed Tenor of Oz returns to Mackay

‍

Friday 28 April

Wintermoon Music Festival

Friday 5pm to Monday, 4pm

The annual Wintermoon Music Festival is back, celebrating music and dance, with workshops and circus acts in the Mount Charlton rainforest.

Mount Charlton, Queensland

Hypnotise Me presented by Andy Vening

Friday from 6.30pm

Returning by popular demand, comedy hypnotist Andy Vening is ready to surprise the audience with his new comedy show. Prepare to be shocked by his amazing hypnotic skills, where volunteers test their unconscious minds in fantastic displays.

Metropolitan Hotel, Mackay

Saturday 29 April

Sarina Mud Trials May Day

Saturday 7am to Sunday 8pm

Join Sarina for the annual Sarina Mud Trials. Following the Grand Parade at 8am, the races begin, tearing through the course and making a mess. Classes include junior, standard, buggies, bombs and topgun. With a licensed bar and live music, this will be fun for the whole family.

Sarina Showgrounds

Flavourista Social Tasting

Saturday, 9am to 11am

Enjoy good food and others company with this great workshop. Starting with a nature walk, create meals together, using Flavourista blends, which are gluten and nut free, with the chance to win various prizes.

Wetland Walkabout

Sunday 30 April

The Wild Sky live at the Seabreeze Hotel

Sunday, from 2pm

Mackay local band, The Wild Sky, will cruise you into the public holiday, with their blues-inspired tunes.

Seabreeze Hotel

Resin Workshop by the Creative Art Studio

Sunday, 2pm to 5pm

Relax the weekend away with this calming resin workshop. Come home with a beautiful floral resin trinket dish. Led by artist Michelle, this workshop will teach you all you need to know about resin art and give you handy tips and tricks to make your own.

The Creative Art Studio, 3 Ungerer Street, Mackay

Monday 1 May

Boogie Bounce Mackay Walking Group

Monday, from 9.30am

Hosted by the Boogie Bounce Mackay Walking Group, come along to the new walking group, starting Monday. Meet at the Botanical Gardens and join the group for a casual walk around the gardens, following by a coffee at the café.

Botanical Gardens Mackay

Wednesday 3 May

Novice/Beginner Yoga

Every Wednesday, 3pm to 4pm

Led by Wellness with Deb, this new novice and beginner yoga class is perfect for everyone. Strengthening and stretching muscles is the game, learning how to use and engage muscles for the best results with your fitness.

Habana, Queensland

STEAM Club – Magformer Construction

Wednesday, 3.30pm to 4.30pm

Hosted by the Mackay Regional Council Libraries, this STEAM Club will encourage creative minds, by building engineering projects with Magformer magnet shapes.

Gordon White Library

Thursday 4 May

Frenchy Judgement Day

Thursday, from 7.30pm

Viral Australian comedian Frenchy is visiting Mackay on his national tour. With nothing off limits, and warnings for sitting in the front row, this show will test the audience.

Metropolitan Hotel, Mackay

‍

July sees the return of the Whitsunday Voice Youth Literature Festival and the Literary Dinner, with headline keynote speaker, Annabel Crabb announced.

Whitsunday Voices is one of the largest literature festivals for youth in north Queensland, attracting over 5,000 students to Mackay to the annual event.

The festival allows students to meet and engage with some of Australia’s most acclaimed authors, presenters, and performers, with students coming from as far south as Rockhampton, and just north of Bowen.

2023 Australian stars include authors Isobelle Carmody, Katrina Nannestad, and Matt Stanton and performers Shake and Stir.

The Literary Dinner is a highlight of the program, celebrating the conclusion of the wider festival, with Australian personality Annabel Crabb presenting the keynote presentation.

Annabel has led the charge on various ABC Projects, including Australia Talks, The House with Annabel Crabb, and The Kitchen Cabinet, which received two Logie nominations for Most Outstanding New Talent and Most Popular New Female Talent.

The Literary Dinner includes a three-course meal, live music, and the opportunity to grab a hold of favourite high-profile presenters.

The festival spans three days, July 12 to 14, and includes author talks, writing and art workshops, a Poetry Slam! Competition and short story competition, presentations, plus book signing for all patrons.

WHAT: Whitsunday Voices Literary Dinner

WHERE: MECC Plenary Hills

WHEN: Friday, July 14

TICKETS: themeec.com.au

‍

Annabel Crabb joins the Whitsunday Voices lineup

‍

It was perfect weather for the first 2023 Cinema Under the Stars for the Mackay Hospital Foundation, presented by Harvey Norman Bedding Mackay, and sponsored by BHP BMA.

Over 300 people attended the showing of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 on the Mackay Botanical Gardens lawn on Friday, April 21.

From 5.30pm, families were welcomed into the Amphitheatre, with a jumping castle and merry-go-round, face painting and balloon animals available.

Attendees also had the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets to go into the draw for the chance to win a VIP marquee package.

The VIP marquees were decorated with lights, and had lanterns, an inflatable lounge with blankets and cushions, and a table perfect for food and drinks, plus vouchers for food and drink vendors that participated in the event.

Other raffle ticket prizes also included one of 25 pillow and store vouchers for Harvey Norman Bedding Mackay and food vouchers from the food vendors.

Cinema Under the Stars is one venture of the Mackay Hospital Foundation, which is driven to support Mackay families, and aid in reducing the offset costs associated with receiving essential health care services.

As a community charity, the Mackay Hospital Foundation supports patients within Mackay Base Hospital and other public hospitals in the Mackay district.  

The next Mackay Hospital Foundation Cinema Under the Stars will be held on August 11, in the Mackay Botanical Gardens Amphitheatre, with a third on September 16, in Sarina.

‍

‍

308 people attended the first Cinema Under the Stars held by the Mackay Hospital Foundation. Photo supplied

‍

At the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music

The Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music (CQCM) has always been known for bringing together the best in the music industry to mentor students and entertain Mackay audiences. This May, CQCM have two exciting events lined up that are sure to be a treat for fans of great jazz, blues, and soul.

Friday Jazz @ The Con on May 12th will feature George Washingmachine, a Sydney-based vocalist, guitarist, and violinist, who will perform alongside the talented staff and students of the Conservatorium. The following week, on May 19th, Keyboard Confessions will showcase the vocal and keyboard prowess of Clayton Doley, another Sydney-based musician. The event will also feature performances by staff and students of the CQCM.

George Washingmachine has been a fixture in the Australian music scene for over four decades. He is known for his impeccable musicianship and his ability to blend various genres of music, including jazz, blues, swing, and country. He has performed with some of the biggest names in music, including James Morrison, Tommy Emmanuel, and Leo Sayer. Washingmachine's style is soulful, and his violin playing is particularly memorable.

Clayton Doley is a musician who is equally at home on the keyboard or behind a microphone. His style is a mix of blues, funk, and rock, and he is known for his soulful vocals and his impressive keyboard skills. Doley has toured with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Joe Bonamassa, Harry Manx, Jimmy Barnes, and Renee Geyer. Doley has recorded a number of albums with his groups the Organ Donors and Bayou Billabong, with the finest musicians Australia and New Orleans has to offer.

These two events are a rare opportunity to experience some of the best jazz and blues musicians in the country, performing alongside the talented students and staff of the CQCM.  Tickets for both events can be purchased on the CQCM website, https://cqcm.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/sales/sales. Don't miss out on the chance to experience the musical genius of George Washingmachine and Clayton Doley, and to support the Conservatorium's talented staff and students. Mark your calendars and get your tickets now!

‍

Spanning over 10 years, Cosentino’s career is mind-blowing and extraordinary, always mystifying crowds, shocking and surprising audiences all over the world.

And now, Cosentino is taking it regional, performing his Decennium: The Greatest Hits Tour, honouring the 10-year milestone.

The master magician and escape artist caught up with Mackay and Whitsunday Life journalist Bronte Hodge ahead of his show in Mackay this May.

How does it make you feel to reach 10 years in the industry?

You know, I’ve been doing this a long, long time and looking back, I think of the TV specials and the international TV shows. All the tours and all the people I've met, and all different countries have been pretty you know, amazing. To be able to turn a little passion into entertainment is a niche, and to turn that into a viable career is amazing. So, yeah, I'm kind of, very proud of what we've managed to accomplish.

We’ve really broken the mould. And now I’ve got a new TV show coming out next month, so we just keep going. We keep reinventing and we keep refreshing and we keep breaking the rules.

What is a defining moment in your career?

Wow, there’s a couple of really interesting moment. The first one I remember I was watching David Copperfield, when I was a teenager after Regent Theatre in Melbourne, it's pretty special. And then probably two years later, I auditioned for Australia’s Got Talent at the Regent Theatre, and I was so nervous. And then, a year later, I filmed my own TV special at the Regent Theatre, and that was really a completion of a circle.

What can audiences expect in the Decennium show?

It’s the best of my best. I’m taking a part my five TV specials, the international TV show, the international tours, and experiences from around the globe and jampacking them into one 90-minute show. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a long time and it’s great. It’s not new material, it’s the best material. So, if people have seen the show before, their getting the best parts. I’m drawing on five hours of TV specials, nine hours of international TV shows and 10 years of material since Australia’s Got Talent. There’s no way anyone has seen all my material.

Can you share a shocking act that’s in the show?

Yeah, I can. One would be where my head is in a Perspex box with 18 kitchen knives. I have to wriggle and get out with a timer. And this one went wrong on a rehearsal on my TV special. I had to get 12 stitches in my chin and caught it all on camera.

And it's, you know, seeing it on TV is one thing, but seeing it live is another because someone comes on stage, they examine the apparatus and the knives, and they become invested.

WHAT: Cosentino – Decennium – The Greatest Hits Tour

WHEN: Thursday, May 5

WHERE: The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

TICKETS: cosentino.com.au

‍

‍

Master magician and escape artist, Cosentino, returns to Mackay with 10th year anniversary performance. Photo supplied

‍

Spanning over 10 years, Cosentino’s career is mind-blowing and extraordinary, always mystifying crowds, shocking and surprising audiences all over the world.

And now, Cosentino is taking it regional, performing his Decennium: The Greatest Hits Tour, honouring the 10-year milestone.

The master magician and escape artist caught up with Mackay and Whitsunday Life journalist Bronte Hodge ahead of his show in Mackay this May.

How does it make you feel to reach 10 years in the industry?

You know, I’ve been doing this a long, long time and looking back, I think of the TV specials and the international TV shows. All the tours and all the people I've met, and all different countries have been pretty you know, amazing. To be able to turn a little passion into entertainment is a niche, and to turn that into a viable career is amazing. So, yeah, I'm kind of, very proud of what we've managed to accomplish.

We’ve really broken the mould. And now I’ve got a new TV show coming out next month, so we just keep going. We keep reinventing and we keep refreshing and we keep breaking the rules.

What is a defining moment in your career?

Wow, there’s a couple of really interesting moment. The first one I remember I was watching David Copperfield, when I was a teenager after Regent Theatre in Melbourne, it's pretty special. And then probably two years later, I auditioned for Australia’s Got Talent at the Regent Theatre, and I was so nervous. And then, a year later, I filmed my own TV special at the Regent Theatre, and that was really a completion of a circle.

What can audiences expect in the Decennium show?

It’s the best of my best. I’m taking a part my five TV specials, the international TV show, the international tours, and experiences from around the globe and jampacking them into one 90-minute show. It’s something I’ve wanted to do for a long time and it’s great. It’s not new material, it’s the best material. So, if people have seen the show before, their getting the best parts. I’m drawing on five hours of TV specials, nine hours of international TV shows and 10 years of material since Australia’s Got Talent. There’s no way anyone has seen all my material.

Can you share a shocking act that’s in the show?

Yeah, I can. One would be where my head is in a Perspex box with 18 kitchen knives. I have to wriggle and get out with a timer. And this one went wrong on a rehearsal on my TV special. I had to get 12 stitches in my chin and caught it all on camera.

And it's, you know, seeing it on TV is one thing, but seeing it live is another because someone comes on stage, they examine the apparatus and the knives, and they become invested.

WHAT: Cosentino – Decennium – The Greatest Hits Tour

WHEN: Thursday, May 5

WHERE: The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

TICKETS: cosentino.com.au

‍

Master magician and escape artist, Cosentino, returns to Mackay with 10th year anniversary performance. Photo supplied

‍

Boasts 32 Event Program Line-Up

Returning for its 35th year, the Mackay Festival of Arts is offering a jampacked line-up of artists and events, so everyone is covered.

The Mackay Festival of Arts encompasses the entire month of July, with a series of events and music festivals that cater for everyone, be it live music and entertainment, workshops, high teas, and tours.

“Expect late-night laughs and madcap comedy at High Tea with Booff and everything from sword swallowing to daring aerial feats and tap dancing inside the Ukiyo tent with Le Coup,” said Mayor Greg Williamson.

Included in the line-up is the Whitsunday Wealth Festival Hub, which will take over the Civic Centre Precinct from July 3 to 9, and will feature live music, food vans, a licensed bar with Red Dog Brewery and two on-site festivals.

“And that’s just a very small part of the festival,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Our team have collaborated with event organisers across the region to unite many existing festivals under the Mackay Festival of Arts Banner,” allowing patrons more opportunity to experience the events.

Other events under the banner include BE Social Fest, Daly Bay Infrastructure Literary Dinner, Wisely Wine and Food Day, Breathe In with Crossroad Arts, and Mack Popcon.

Festival favourites, including Daly Bay Illuminate and Wisely Wine and Food Day have been reimagined, with exciting twists to surprise locals.

Manager of Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre (MECC) and Events, Andrew Bobeldyk said “We have some spectacular installations from around the nation to light up Daly Bay Illuminate in Queens Park.”

Mr Bobeldyk also said the Wisely Wine and Food Day have a new layout, meaning patrons can have improved views of the stage and better VIP experiences.

Festival-goers are spoilt for choice, with something for everyone, Mackay is the place to be in July.

WHAT: Mackay Festival of Arts

WHEN: July 1 to July 31

PROGRAM: themecc.com.au

‍

‍

The Lost Dogs’ Disco to feature at Daly Bay Illuminate. Photo supplied

‍

Welcome to the Sugar City, where sweet sugar lingers in the air, and you can taste it on the tip of your tongue.

With delicate design and integral artistry, it is no surprise Mackay is home to the Sugar City Art Deco and Modernism Society, an organisation which celebrates and preserves the classic architecture and history of the city.

And for the upcoming World Art Deco Day on Friday, April 28, the Sugar City Art Deco and Modernism Society will be hosting Mackay’s World Art Deco Day, with a lucrative cocktail party at the Ambassador Hotel.

Art Deco Day commemorates the opening of the Exposition Internationale Des Arts Decoratifs et Industrials Moderne in Paris, in 1925, a monumental world fair that highlighted the new modern style of architecture, interior design, art and jewellery.

Celebrating the 1920/30s, this evening also announces the launch of the Sugar City Art Deco and Modernism Guide Book, a dedicated guide highlighting the architecture of Mackay and its history.

Grab your best flapper dress and your fedora and join the cocktail party of the century.

WHAT: Mackay’s World Art Deco Day

WHERE: The Ambassador Hotel

WHEN: Friday, April 28, from 6.30pm

TICKETS: mackayartdeco.org

‍

Mackay’s flapper party of the century

‍

A local surf lifesaving club has put the call out to the region to show off “our beautiful part of the world” in a calendar competition for 2024.

Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) wants locals to submit their original and inspiring photos that celebrate Eimeo and its surrounding areas.

Awards will be given to 14 images across multiple categories, including the coveted cover photo and people’s choice.

“Pictures speak louder than words when it comes to the love a community can have for their local area,” Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club Chief Training Officer Cynthia Hegerty said.

“So, submit your photos today and have your chance to contribute to our Calendar!”

Calendars will be on sale later in the year for purchase to support the Eimeo SLSC, which has for over 22 years patrolled and provided a community service at Eimeo Beach and surrounding areas (from Dolphin Heads to Bucasia).  

The locality is one of the largest surf clubs in the Whitsunday region, with membership of over 250 from juniors through to masters.  

More information can be found at the Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club Facebook page.

‍

‍

Eimeo Surf Life Saving Club is hosting a 2024 Calendar Competition

‍

It takes something special for a music festival to last 27 years, and the organisers of Wintermoon Festival know they’re onto it.

Starting in 1996 as a small event hosted by the Mackay Folk Club, the festival returns to its home in Cameron’s Pocket over the May long weekend for its 27th iteration, welcoming patrons into its unique universe of folk, country, and world music.

“We were probably one of the first festivals in this area doing that kind of thing,” said organiser Patrick Burke, who has worked with the festival since 2000.

“We’ve always had some of the best festival acts from around Australia but as the festival’s grown bigger, we’ve been able to increase and improve on some of those artists and the quantity of those artists that otherwise wouldn’t be seen in this location.

“We have a particularly strong view about their ability to perform and to be great musicians, so we try and pick the best acts that we can from around the country.”

Fostering a unique, welcoming, and friendly environment, Wintermoon is proud to welcome new and emerging acts to their stage while those in the Wintermoon “family” often return regularly, with performers such as “Australia’s greatest bush band” the Bushwackers, the Ploughboys in their original form, Hillbilly Goats, Matt Tandy, Kate Mahood and Salt and Steel all returning in 2023.

The festival focusses on quality and patron experience, utilising a location that is hard to beat while partnering with the neighbouring Ballantyne’s Strawberry Farm for the first time.

“The location is absolutely stunning with the mountains and St Helen’s Creek and the way it’s nestled into that little pocket there at Cameron’s Pocket,” said Mr Burke.

“It’s a very family focussed festival, so we have grandparents and their children and their grandchildren and sometimes even great grandchildren who are coming.

“It’s just a lovely environment, people care for each other, they look out for each other, and it’s a very kind, family event.”

On top of a camping and music festival, Wintermoon offers the opportunity for families to connect, learn and grow together with interactive arts, music, poetry, songwriting, and circus workshops bringing people together.

“It’s lovely to have the joy of parents and children connecting away from screens and all those other distractions,” Mr Burke said.

“Mobile phones don’t work there and that creates its own lovely vibe.

“You’ve got all of these nice things happening if you want to get involved in them and some people don’t; some people just have a really nice campsite, enjoy the music and just relax.”

For more information and for tickets, visit www.wintermoonfestival.com or find Wintermoon Festival on Facebook.

WHAT: Wintermoon Festival

WHEN: Friday, April 28 to Monday, May 1

WHERE: Cameron’s Pocket

TICKETS: www.wintermoonfestival.com

‍

The Bushwackers are back for Wintermoon Festival 2023. Photo supplied

‍

A huge influx of visitors is expected to flood into Nebo, with the announcement of The Nebo Hotel Street Party, taking place the night prior to the 2023 Nebo Rodeo.

A popular event in the local calendar, The Nebo Hotel Street Party has high hopes for 2023, including live music from headliners such as The Wolfe Brothers, Zac & George, Layla Gossage, and LG & Biig Sxxc.

There will also be extensive kids entertainment, with music The Crackup Sisters and the crew from Dance Like an Animal, eat street, and unlimited kids rides.

The reception of the 2022 event, with over 2000 patrons attending, has Nebo Hotel Owner, Kristen Stevenson, excited.

“We’re thrilled to be hosting such a talented lineup of country music artists at the Nebo Hotel pre rodeo Street Party,” Mrs Stevenson said.

“This weekend is a celebration of our town, our region, and our community.

“We’re proud to be supporting local charities and organisations, and we invite everyone to come along and join in the fun.”

The Nebo Rodeo alone attracts over 5000 visitors, with attractions including a full APRA rodeo, bull ring, and barrel racing.

However, the committee have introduced an exciting conclusion, with country music star, Luke Geiger, to head the after party.

Camping is available to patrons at no added costs, and all proceeds from both events being donated to support worthy causes.

‍

Don’t miss the party of the year, while supporting worthy causes. Photo supplied

‍

Half-Price Tickets Available From Monday

Early bird tickets will soon be on sale for Kucom Theatre’s July production, Perfect Wedding.

The tickets, available between Monday, April 24 and Sunday, April 30, are available at half the cost of general sale tickets.

Director Kathryn Evans has shared a personal invitation to all.

“You are cordially invited to the wedding day of Bill and Rachel,” Ms Evans said.

“We all dream of having the Perfect Wedding—and this one is a door-slamming, laugh-a-minute farce.

“It opens with the groom waking up on his wedding day beside a woman who is not his bride.

“Then we embark on a twisting, turning tale with misunderstandings, mistaken identity, and a very prominent toilet brush.

“Starring some well-known faces and featuring new faces, this promises to be a night of fun and frivolity.”

The theatre’s production of Perfect Wedding, by Robin Hawdon, is a Mackay Festival of Arts Fringe event.

Perfect Wedding follows a groom who wakes on his wedding morning in his own bridal suite with his bride-to-be about to arrive any moment.

As he awakes, he finds a strange girl in bed beside him – an extremely attractive girl whom, in the depths of his post stag-night hangover, he can’t remotely remember even having been introduced to.

Then things start to get really complicated.

Lani Seaton and Zachary Trounson fill the leading roles as bride and groom alongside Michael Brennan, Asta Ryan, Carolyn Roche and Kristyn Everett.

WHAT: Perfect Wedding

WHEN: July 6, 7, 8, 13, 14 and 15 from 7:30pm

WHERE: Kucom Theatre

TICKETS: Available from Monday, April 24 from events.humanitix.com/perfect-wedding

‍

Friday 21 April

Company of Women

Friday, 11.30am – 3.00pm

Join the Kickass Women in their bimonthly lunch, encouraging, networking, and supporting the women of Mackay. This lunch’s theme is Women’s Safety and includes three guest speakers, a two-course meal, and a drink on arrival. Tickets are $89.95, and all are welcome.

Rare Bar and Grill, Mackay

West Texas Crude @ The Dispensary

Friday, 6.00pm to 10pm

Performing their eclectic mix of country, blues, funk, and rock, West Texas Crude are returning to Mackay this weekend! Fan favourites of the area, this will be a show to not miss!

The Dispensary, Mackay

Lazy Ghost – Summer is Here Tour

Friday, from 8.00pm

Lazy Ghost are in Mackay, touring their newest single, Summer is Here. Lazy Ghost is known for their good vibes, fantastic live shows, and songs envisioning summer heat and summer love, all things Mackay is known for. Grab your tickets now, while you can! Tickets available through Oztix.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Mackay Twilight MEGA Markets

Friday 21, from 5.00pm to 8.30pm and Saturday 22 April, from 4pm to 8.30pm

Support local makers with this two-day event, jampacked full of live music and entertainment, eat street, jumping castles, and face painting.

With $2 entry – children 17 years old and under entry free – this is an event not to miss.

Mackay Showgrounds

Saturday 22 April

Kingswood on Tour

Saturday, from 8.00pm

The next stop of their Hometowns tour will see Aussie band Kingswood in Mackay! Performing their best hits, Kingswood will also be showcasing their newest hits from recently released album, Home, featuring the best lyrical writing in recent years. Tickets are available through Oztix.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Olive Workshop with One Hungry Mumma

Saturday, 9.30am to 11.30am

Learn how to process and marinate your own olives in this comprehensive workshop, run by One Hungry Mumma. Using a family Italian recipe, you will learn from the best, and be able to make the best for all entertainment needs! Tickets are $145 per person and include one kilo of olives, olive pitter, basket for soaking, light refreshments, and a canape and drink on arrival.

1 Zahmel Street, Finch Hatton

Sunday 23 April

Red Dog Sip and Paint – Sunday Sesh

Sunday, 2.30pm to 4.30pm

Test your inner artist with this guided sip and paint workshop! Local artist, Michelle, will lead the afternoon, showing artists through the workshop, leaving with a beautiful flamingo artwork. Tickets are $79 and include all art supplies, a drink on arrival (beer or wine) and shared pizza.

Red Dog Brewery

Monday 24 April

Up, Up and Away

Monday, 7.00pm to 9.00pm

Locally trained artists, Emma Goding and Nicole Pillhofer, are setting their sights on Mackay, hosting this evening of Song and Dance. Featuring favourites from musical theatre, classical repertoire, and contemporary areas, this concert will be fun for the whole family. Tickets available through Trybooking.

Ken Martin Choral Centre

Wednesday 26 April

Soul Jam at The Kooyong Hotel

Friday, 6.00pm to 11.00pm

Grab your mates for a night of original music, musical experimentation, and to jam with others! Supplying the drummer and guitarist, with a bass available, all you need to bring is your songs and good vibes!

The Kooyong Hotel

No Lights No Lycra

Every Wednesday, 7.00pm to 8.00pm

Dancing in the dark, what a great way to shake the mid-week hump! From 12 to 100 years old, this event is for all, to get together, shake and dance.

St Pauls Uniting Church, Mackay

Thursday 27 April

Big Girl’s Pyjama Party

Thursday, 6.30pm to 10.00pm

Bring your girlfriends, wear your comfiest pjs and enjoy the film ‘Allelujah’ on the big screen, while supporting the Mackay Soroptimists, with proceeds to be donated to Better Together Housing. Tickets are $35 per person and include three raffle tickets.

Mt Pleasant Cinema, Mackay

MECC Presents: Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2023

Thursday, from 6.30pm

The Roadshow is back, with Mackay on the lineup. Get your mates together and enjoy a night of comedy that will leave you in stitches. Doors open at 6.30pm, with live music for local musician, Jonte Tupaea, in the North Foyer Bar.

Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre

‍

‍

Lazy Ghost coming to Mackay

Olives Olives Olives

Melbourne International Comedy Festival at the MECC

Kingswood take on Mackay

West Texas Crude

Sip and Paint with Local Artist

‍

A beloved family story re-imagined with original music and exciting antics is coming to the Mackay Entertainment Centre (MECC) in early May to entertain and inspire the Sugar City’s kids.

A delightful production of The Wind in the Willows - the classic children’s novel by Kenneth Grahame - will go from page to stage in a joyous and masterful theatrical experience, brought to life by Queensland production company RAVA Productions.

David Gooderson helms the new stage adaptation of the children’s fiction novel, which has sold over 85 million copies worldwide.

After the success of RAVA’s performance of Charlotte’s Web at the MECC in 2021, the production company have once again reimagined a classic.

RAVA Productions producer Ruth Atkinson said the crew is excited to bring The Wind in the Willows to young audiences in Mackay.

"I hope these performances will enchant the children of Mackay,” Ms Atkinson said.

“With this show, we really wanted to highlight importance of friendship, the consequences of actions and when the going gets tough, it’s friends that matter most.”

The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre will hold two performances on May 10, featuring playful, whimsical characters performed by a troupe of seasoned Queensland performers.

Exploring themes of friendship, responsibility, adventure, and the significance of home, this heart-warming story is ideal for family audiences.

“Expect to be transported into a whimsical world with playful antics, the ups and downs of the Mole, Ratty, Badger, and Mr. Toad, all through a fusion of exquisite storytelling and original music,” Ms Atkinson said.

What: The Wind in the Willows

When: Wednesday, May 10, 9.30am and 11.30am

Where: The Mackay Entertainment Centre (MECC)

Tickets: MECC Box office or online at themecc.com.au

‍

‍

The Wind in the Willows cast are excited to bring their antics to Mackay

‍

Grab your comfiest pyjamas and your girlfriends and come to the Big Girl’s Pyjama Party, this Thursday, April 27.

In the Soroptimist International (SI) Mackay’s 4th annual tradition, the Big Girl’s Pyjama Party hits new highs, screening 2022 movie ‘Allelujah’ on the big screen.

Booking out the Mount Pleasant cinema, SI Mackay have high hopes for the 2023 event, with all proceeds to go to Mackay outreach of the Better Together Housing project.

SI Mackay have a long history of community support, regularly supporting J’s Wardrobe with Mackay Base Hospital, ovarian cancer pledge cards, plus many other ongoing projects to empower, educate, and inspire women and girls in the Mackay and Whitsunday catchment.

This year’s movie, ‘Allelujah’ follows a geriatric ward in a small Yorkshire hospital, as it is threatened with closure, starring the likes of Judi Dench and Jennifer Saunders.

This is a timely selection, as SI Mackay have made the move to donate all proceeds from the event to Better Together Housing (BTH), an organisation with the purpose of linking single women over the age of 55 together to provide suitable housing, to reduce the impact of the rise of the cost of living.

Tickets for this event include 3 raffle tickets for the event, costing $35.

Raffle prizes have been donated by local businesses and include fuel vouchers, wine, Ma’s Pizza Kitchen voucher, and Personal Training sessions.

For more information, contact Maria 041 189 568

WHAT: Pyjama Night

WHEN: Thursday, April 27

WHERE: Mount Pleasant Cinema Mackay

TIME: 6:30pm to 10:00pm

TICKETS: $35 per person

‍

‍

Grab your Pyjamas, it’s time for a movie night! Stock image

‍

You almost need a magnifying glass to read the dates on Melbourne band Kingswood’s latest tour poster, such is the enormity of the tour. Cramming 100 gigs into a seven month window, the band are celebrating the release of ‘Home’, an album packed with sultry country music-tinged riffs, with their Hometowns tour. Sam caught up with Kingswood’s guitarist Alex Laska ahead of their show in Mackay this weekend.

I see you’ve been working your way up the coast over the past month or so, how have the shows been?

Incredible. All the shows have been incredibly positive as far as engaging with regional and remote communities goes, which was the impetus that fuelled this whole thing, for us to reengage in all the regions that started and built this band in the last 10 years. Obviously we’ve been starved of travelling to all those regions and the regions have been starved of bands travelling to them. The mission was to hit as many as we could possibly undertake within a six month period and I think everyone’s responding really positive to it because they’re super appreciative of the fact that we’re doing it.

Do you notice any particular differences between a regional crowd and a metro crowd?

The difference has lessened. Metro crowds were a lot less susceptible to our charms because they’re used to seeing bands come through whereas regional crowds and communities are genuinely appreciative of an event or someone making an effort, not to say that metro crowds aren’t appreciative. They just used to be a little less inclined to give it their all. I suppose because of the break from social interaction and exposure, honestly everyone’s been pretty much the same, it’s been amazing.

What’s it like personally to be on such a busy tour?

It’s pretty vast and varied. You’ve got to try and maintain health and diet and all that sort of stuff and be patient and considerate because you’re living in such close quarters with people. But the benefits are incredible. We get to see this amazing country and we get to engage with all of the communities we haven’t before. Seeing that exchange, that interaction, and being a part of it and developing our musicality, pushing this album, it’s incredibly positive. People are really responding positively to the new album, it’s been at the top of the ARIA Australia charts for six of the last seven weeks which is amazing.

Speaking of the album, Kingswood have been around for 15 years, you’ve half a dozen albums and each feels like you introduce something fresh and new, how did you keep things fresh while writing Home?

Honestly, I just satisfied my own creative urge. We’d just finished up with our record label on the last three albums and COVID had happened and no one knew what was going on or what was going to happen so I went into this escapist, surrealist world living on a ranch in Queensland. I leant into the more country-tinged music that I love and just wrote the album without any album of anything, I just wrote it for the sake of writing it. I had no idea of when, where, how, why we were going to release it. Did we know we were going to tour it? Same thing.

In saying that, there are obviously common Kingswood sounds, themes and moods throughout all of your albums, who or what inspires the Kingswood sound?

That is incredibly difficult question. It’s probably an amalgamation of the entirety of my life, what I’ve been exposed to musically, and there’s definitely a formula or recipe that’s engrained itself in my head based on everything I’ve been exposed to musically. Because of that, there’s an inherant identity that, no matter what genre we undertake, links back to the Kingswood sound and I think that will be present because it’s part of my identity in all stuff.

It's not your first time in Mackay this weekend, do you have any memories of the place?

We like north Queensland. We’ve always had really good relationships with venues and the people so I always think of north Queensland as fun.

And what can Mackay expect at the Metropolitan on the weekend?

The best show they’ve ever seen, hands down.

WHAT: Kingswood

WHEN: Saturday, April 22 from 8:00pm

WHERE: The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

TICKETS: Oztix

‍

‍

Kingswood are about halfway through a mammoth 100-date tour of Australia

‍

Celebrating his 42nd anniversary, ARIA, Logie, and Helpmann Award winner Jonathon Welch AM retells his amazing story at the MECC this May.

Best known as the creator of the multi award-winning ABC TV smash hit Choir of Hard Knocks, Jonathon Welch AM threads the amazing story of his life with beautiful music and stories.

From his early years, being told he would never have a singing career, to becoming one of Australia's finest Tenors and being awarded Australian of the Year Local Hero 2008 and an Order of Australia for his passionate work and advocacy of the homeless and disadvantaged, Jonathon's voice and unique story is thrilling, deeply moving and inspiring.

Jonathon will sing a selection of songs and ballads that have shaped his musical career from My Fair Lady, Kismet, and The Music Man to Road to Gundagai, You Raise Me Up and the hauntingly beautiful, Hallelujah, with rave reviews ensuing.

“The Frankston Musical Mats audience absolutely loved Jonathon – as you would expect,” said Frankston Arts Centre’s Merryn Tinkler.

“His show was slick and professional and, at the same time, warm and inviting for our audience, who all had some laughs and some tears along the way.

“He was very generous with his time, spending much time after each performance in the foyer meeting and greeting and chatting.”

WHAT: Friends Of The MECC's Morning Melodies 2023 - A Hard Knock Life By Jonathon Welch AM

WHEN: Wednesday, May 19, 11.00am

WHERE: MECC Plenary Halls

TICKETS: mecc.com.au

‍

Jonathon Welch AM brings his inspiring story to the MECC in May

‍

‍

The Beatles are back and performing at the Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre (MECC) this May.

Envisioning a revival of The Beatles iconic Rooftop Concert, Aussie band The Honey Sliders, will bring the best of Australian musicians, including the likes of Danny Widdicombe, Dan Mansfield, Ben Carstens, and Bos Borley in an invigorating movie projection, acclaimed to impress all audience members.

Set on the backdrop of a cool winter’s day in 1969, the Rooftop Concert acted as catalyst to propel the band into all-time rock-stardom, only being a 42-minute show before police arrived at the Apple Corps building in Savile Row and ordered the band to reduce the volume.

Despite this, the raw power of the impromptu show enchanted an unsuspecting crowd.

The Honey Sliders do more than just impersonate The Beatles, but rather have intimately recreated The Beatles’ discography, creating a performance that will ring true to any Beatles fan.

The Honey Sliders also reminisce on other popular musicians, Neil Young, particularly his classic album Harvest, Jimi Hendrix, and The Rolling Stones, having travelled across New South Wales and Queensland performing to a multitude of audiences.

A combination of nostalgia and a faithful celebration, The Honey Sliders Play the Beatles’ Rooftop Concert is a positive reflection of the impact of the original Rooftop Concert, and nods to the power and testament of The Beatles and their endless and continuous creativity, and their ability to wow crowds and fans 54 years on.

With much critical acclaim, this performance will throw audiences back to The Beatles’ final live and open performance of their career.

With an extended lineup of Beatles hits and rarities, The Honey Sliders will perform at the MECC on May 27, with doors opening at 7pm.

For one night only, this show is quickly selling out. To purchase tickets, head to themecc.com.au.

WHAT: The Honey Sliders Play the Beatles’ Rooftop Concert

WHERE: The Mackay Entertainment Convention Centre

WHEN: Saturday, May 27, from 7.30pm

TICKETS: themecc.com.au

‍

‍

Not just a Beatles tribute show, The Honey Sliders Play the Beatles’ Rooftop Concert is not one to miss

‍

Mackay Musical Comedy Players, who brought you the smash hits Mamma Mia, Shrek, and Chicago, presents the original story of The Addams Family, and it's every father's nightmare!

Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet young man from a respectable family.

If that weren't upsetting enough, Wednesday begs her father not to tell her mother.

Now, Gomez Addams must do something he's never done before – keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia.

Everything will change on the fateful night the family hosts a dinner for Wednesday's 'normal' boyfriend and his parents.

A cast of Mackay favourites will bring this story to life in May including John Hadok, Vicky Bobeldyk, Dallis McLean, Henry Miller, Joshua Duncan, Warren Samuel, Megan Geoghegan, Molly Rossetto, Hayden White and George Rogers.

Founded in February 1965, Mackay Musical Comedy Players Inc is a not-for-profit community theatre company, with a history of entertaining Mackay audiences with quality productions of stage musicals for over 50 years.

The club is set to celebrate its 60th anniversary in 2025.  

WHAT: Mackay Musical Comedy Players presents The Addams Family

WHEN: Friday, May 19 from 8pm and Saturday, May 20 from 2pm and 8pm

WHERE: MECC

TICKETS: themecc.com.au

‍

Mackay Musical Comedy Players presents The Addams Family at the MECC in May

‍

Friday 14 April

Reece Mastin and Jonte at The Metropolitan

Friday, 7:30pm

Celebrating his 10-year anniversary X-Factor winner, Reece Mastin, is in Mackay, performing at The Metropolitan. Mackay local artist, Jonte, will be supporting Reece, with a 45-minute opening. Reece will hit the stage, performing all his best hits from 9pm, making this a night not to miss. Tickets $39.90. Doors open at 7:30pm.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Saturday 15 April

Sarina 4B Rodeo

Saturday, 3:00pm

The annual Sarina Rodeo is back for 2023 and has fun for the whole family, including Open Bull Ride, Open Saddle Bronc, Open Bareback, and Pee Wee Barrel Race. Gates open at 3pm.

Sarina Showgrounds

Learn2Run 5k

Saturday, 5:45am

Want to learn to run 5 kilometres in 13 weeks? This program will run through core running skills to avoid injury and let you enjoy running with a group. The first Saturday of the month will start at Mantra Mackay Carpark and every other Saturday will start from Laffos Caneland. Start time is strictly 5:45am every Saturday. Tuesday and Thursday are from City Fitness at 5:30am sharp.

Mantra Mackay Carpark

Elvis Presley Tribute Show

Saturday, 7:15pm

All Elvis Presley fans, heads up! Elvis will be performing at the Souths Leagues Club Mackay this Saturday, performing all his best hits. General admission $35, with doors opening from 7:15pm.

South Leagues Club Mackay

Tuesday 18 April

BMA Kidspace

Tuesday, 10:00am to 12:12pm

Join local artists and performers for creative art activities for toddlers and their parents. Activities include creative play, live musical entertainment and so much more.

Artspace Mackay

Imagine Kids Wellbeing Program

Tuesday, 4:00pm to 5:00pm

Imagine Kids is a wellbeing program for children, aged 5 to 9, that builds confidence, healthy self-esteem, and emotional resilience in creative, fun, and engaging classes. The Term 2 program includes mindfulness, managing big emotions, and music and dress up. $180 per child per term, and with limited spaces, contact Kylee on krystallinekreations111@gmail.com.

The Neighbourhood Hub, South Mackay

Wednesday 19 April

Night Nav MapRun

Wednesday, 5:30pm to 6:30pm

Get involved with this evening running event. For all ages and fitness levels, meet at John Breen Park and walk, jog, or run through local parks and streets in the cool of the evening. BYO: MapRunn6 app, water bottle, footwear, and a torch or head lamp. $5 per person or $12 per family. To register, email 21degreessouth@gmail.com with your name, contact number and number of participates in your team.

John Breen Park, Mackay

Thursday 20 April

Gin Appreciation

Thursday, 6:30pm

If gin is your drink of choice this is one event you don't want to miss. The evening will feature 5 gin tastings with a 3-course menu designed by The Dispensary head chef, Alex.

The Dispensary Mackay

Cocktails and Karaoke

Every Thursday, 8:00pm to 11:45pm

Come on down for cocktails and karaoke, with the best amateur singers of Mackay showing their stuff. This night is always a hit with locals!

Empire Alternacade and Events Mackay

‍

‍

Reece Mastin

Elvis

BMA Kidspace

Sarina Rodeo

Gin Appreciation

‍

Easter eggs could be found scattered around Lake Poco for Wake House Australia's annual Family Easter Egg Hunt.

Dozens of children walked away with sugar highs, sticky fingers and chocolate-covered mouths, with all money raised going directly to local charity All Abilities Inc - Summer House Mackay.

A beautiful day of wakeboarding ensued as the sun shined on a stunning Easter Sunday.

‍

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

‍

Marking a moment in history, the upcoming performance of the Misogyny Opus at the MECC later this month is a world premiere of an important pop orchestral piece, written and delivered by local musician Karen Jacobsen.

It was August 2021, when Karen was watching Ms Represnted on television and inspiration hit her “like a bolt from the blue”.

The show was hosted by Annabel Crabb and had been detailing the history of Australian women in politics.

When Julia Gillard’s famous Misogyny Speech was recounted, the words deeply impacted Karen, and she found herself racing to the computer.

“There was an urgency in what I was doing,” said Karen.

“I started to set the speech to music word for word – I put my hands to the keyboard and the music was all there.”

“Over 10 years has passed since the iconic speech by the 27th Prime Minister of Australia and as predicted by those attending parliament that day, history was made.

“Julia Gillard’s justifiable anger at the shocking misogyny she had experienced during her leadership, exploded into a speech which has survived the test of time.”

When she started writing the orchestral piece two years ago, Karen already knew that the project was bigger than her and had the potential to start conversations all over the world.

Engaging with famous and inspiring women right across Australia, Karen put faces to the passionate words within the music by filming a music video.

The result was an impressively powerful visual that heightened the important message she was driven to deliver.

“Casual sexism is a constant,” said Karen.

“Until every woman is safe in their own home, workplace and walking down the street, we do not have equality.”

Karen, who is also known as the voice of Siri, was born and raised in Mackay.

She moved to America to launch her music career and spent many years successfully performing in the New York music scene.

At the onset of COVID, Karen moved back to the region with her husband and their teenage son.

Since then, she has been dedicating herself to furthering the local cultural offering.

“To have the opportunity to do a world premiere of an original orchestral work is a big moment for the arts in Mackay and shows how much the local arts and culture seen has grown,” she said.

“The audience will experience the entire speech for an hour-long performance.”

The Premiere of the Misogyny Opus will take place at the MECC on the April 28 and 29.

The pop orchestral masterpiece is 55 minutes, split into 18 sections.

Karen’s stunning vocals will be accompanied by the Queensland Symphony Orchestra in this ground-breaking performance that is expected to create conversations all over the world.

“Let’s get behind this momentous occasion,” said Karen.

“Share the message of the importance of equality, while experiencing an exceptional original musical work in concert.”

WHAT: The Misogyny Opus

WHERE: The MECC

WHEN: April 28-29

‍

‍

Karen Jacobsen will perform her pop orchestral masterpiece at the MECC

‍

The sensational Mark Anthony is back by popular demand, bringing his enthralling Elvis experience to the MECC in May.

The internationally renowned performer, who has been regarded as the very best Elvis Presley Tribute artist in the world today, will transport you to that very time when Elvis Presley ruled the world and dominated the record charts.

With his unique raw energy, dynamic voice and sensational stage presence, Mr Anthony recreates the Elvis experience with unbelievable accuracy, taking audiences back to the 50s.

All the glamour, all the costumes, all the greatest hits, all on one big night to remember as “The Chosen One” Mr Anthony takes you on a journey with a full live band to prove why Elvis Presley was known as The White King Of Rock n Roll.

“Mark Anthony is one of today’s best Elvis Tribute artists,” said Joe Moscheo of The Imperials, the band who toured with Elvis from 1969 to 1972 and recorded two Gospel albums with him.

“It’s fun for me to watch Mark perform, because he reminds me, so much, of my old friend Elvis Presley – the Greatest Entertainer this world has ever known!

“Mark’s show pays tribute to Elvis for all the right reasons, and brings back memories of when we were there on stage with the Man Himself!

“Keep up the great work Mark… your friend in Nashville.”

WHAT: Elvis – One Night In Vegas

WHEN: Friday, March 5 from 7:30pm

WHERE: MECC

TICKETS: mecc.com.au

‍

Experience what it would have been like to see Elvis Presley live in concert. Photo supplied: Ben Maiorana Entertainment

‍

After plenty of hype and rehearsal, seven Mackay identities showed off their moves at Mackay Hospital Foundation’s Dancing with Heart last Friday, and they didn’t hold back.

With funds still being tallied, at least $50,000 was raised for the Mackay Hospital Foundation throughout the event.

‍

‍

Michelle Cross

Alex Finlayson

Bing Guo

Tegan Jones

Renae Kunst

Paul Manttan

Kay Nyenuh

Kathy Sullivan.

Photo credit: Coffee and Hops

‍

After a successful inaugural event last year, Shed Happens Mackay are once again celebrating International Men’s Day (IMD) with its annual Art Show.

Partnering with the Mackay Art Society, Shed Happens are expanding IMD 2023 celebrations this year by opening the Art Show to more youth with two groups in the Emergent Artist categories.

The theme for IMD 2023 is the third pillar of IMD, ‘Health and Well Being of all Generations of Men’, and this will be the theme for artists to address in their works.

“We want to get the youth involved and we want to get the youth thinking about their health and wellbeing and their health and wellbeing when they become adults,” Shed Happens Mackay Convenor Frank Cowell said.

“Our responsibility is to raise our families and our children with good, healthy ideas.”

Entries opened on April 1 and can be accessed through Art Suppliers, Mackay Regional Council outlets and online at the SHED Happens Mackay Facebook Page.  

An Entry Fee of $10 is applied to every piece of art and artists are limited to two artworks per person.

There are four sections - Best In Show, Art on Canvas, Art on Paper and Emergent Artist (9 -19 years of age) - each with prize money for the winners and 2nd and 3rd prizes in three of the sections.  

Entries will close on August 10 before the artworks are displayed at the Mackay Art Society Rooms in Beaconsfield from Friday September 1 to Sunday September 3.

‍

L-R Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood, Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor Karen May, Shed Happens Convenor Frank Cowell, Mackay Art Society’s Ben Ranson and Councillor Laurence Bonaventura at the 2022 IMD Art Show. Photo supplied

‍

‍

Saturday 8 April

Shannan Fitzgerald Live at the Seabreeze Hotel

Saturday, 8:30pm to 11:30pm

Dance the night away with live music from 8.30pm - 11.30pm.

Seabreeze Hotel

Mega Easter Egg Hunt

Saturday, sessions run every half hour from 10am (final session starts at 1pm)

Join Caneland Central’s egg-citing Easter Egg Hunt and hop into the fun with your family and friends! Head to the Easter Village located in Centre Court at the start of your session to collect your map and start the hunt! Follow the map and write down the number displayed on the store windows. Once you’ve completed the hunt return to the Easter Village to collect your goodie bag! Bookings required.

Easter Village in Centre Court, Caneland Central

Sunday 9 April

Family Easter Egg Hunt

Sunday, 11:30am

Wake House Australia's annual Family Easter Egg Hunt. The hunt takes place around Lake Poco (aka the wake park lake) in Andergrove Lakes. You will need to check in first at the Lakeside Cafe @ Wake House between 11am - 11.30am. All ticket sales go directly to local charity All Abilities Inc - Summer House Mackay. The WakeHouse crew are super excited for this one. Lots of chocolate bunnies for all the participants. Visit the Facebook event for more information.

Wake House Australia

Easter Sunday

Sunday, 12:00pm

Join in for an egg-citing Easter Sunday at Seabreeze Hotel! Bring your family and friends to enjoy a fun-filled day from 12pm onwards. They’ve got lots of activities lined up for the kids, including face painting and Easter goodies. And that's not all! Live music by Mick Woodbridge will have you dancing and singing along from 2pm onwards. The winners of the colouring in competition will be declared, so be sure to submit your entry to be in the running for some awesome prizes. Don't miss out on this egg-cellent opportunity to celebrate Easter with your loved ones.

Seabreeze Hotel

Sounds On Sunday Ft. The Feels

Sunday, 4:00pm to 8:00pm

Sounds On Sunday is back Easter Sunday featuring the Feels live on the deck from 4pm to 8pm. Waterslide, jumping castle and face painting plus outdoor bar, street food and courtesy bus available.

Mackay Northern Beaches Bowls Club

Monday 10 April

The Magic Two Live Shows

Monday, April 10 to Sunday, April 16, 10:30am and 1:00pm daily

You’re sure to have a magical time these school holidays. Head to Centre Court between the 10th to the 16th April to enjoy a free 45-minute magic show. Witness the magical dancing, funny guys as they wow you with their dazzling tricks and amazing dance moves. The shows are on twice daily at 10:30am and 1pm, so don’t miss out. No bookings Required.

Centre Court, Caneland Central

Tuesday 11 April

Superpowered on Tour - April School Holiday Program

Tuesday, April 11 to Sunday, April 16

Superpowered on Tour is coming to Artspace Mackay during the April school holidays bringing creative activities for children, families and people of all ages and abilities. Created by the Children’s Art Centre in collaboration with four Australian artists – Kaylene Whiskey (Yankunytjatjara people), Tony Albert (Girramay/Yidinyji/Kuku Yalanji peoples), Gordon Hookey (Waanyi people) and Vincent Namatjira (Western Aranda people) – who use their voices and their art to empower Aboriginal people and create inspirational imagery for all children. The free and fun activities will focus on strong empowering messages and humour.

Artspace Mackay

Wednesday 12 April

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

School Holiday Drop In Activity - Rock Painting

Wednesday, 9:30am to 11:00am

Join in on the Tropical Sun Lawn to create painted rocks of art and get some handy tips for rock hunting in the Botanic Gardens. This is a FREE drop in activity, suitable for ages 5 and up. Parental supervision is required at all times. Short waiting periods may be required during busy periods.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Better Together Housing Get Together

Wednesday, 10:00am to 11:30am

Whether you are renting, or you own your own home, Better Together Housing is about exploring shared housing in a safe way, at your own pace and without expectations. Not sure sharing is for you? That's ok! Better Together Housing is just as much about connecting women as it is about housing options. Get together over a cuppa for a chat and to connect with other women.

Dudley Denny Library, Victoria Street

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

Soul Jam Wednesdays at The Kooyong Hotel

Every Wednesday, 6:00pm to 11:00pm

Soul Jam is back at The Kooyong Hotel, hosting another friendly space to share your originals, jam with others and experiment with music. Supplied are a drummer and guitarist, bass also available. All artists welcome including slam poetry and comedians.

The Kooyong Hotel

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

Thursday 13 April

Chair Yoga in North Mackay

Every Thursday, 2:00pm

Using a chair for support (either sitting or standing) Chair Yoga is a practice of gentle movement, combined with mindful breathing & meditation. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to focus on a gentle, nurturing practice. Chair Yoga can improve your balance, flexibility, concentration & strength, while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain. Bookings are essential. Call or text your full name to 0434 940 300 or message the Wellness With Deb Facebook page.

Palmview Village Community Centre, via Oasis Drive / Bradford St.

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

‍

Off the back of their record-breaking triple j Hottest 100 appearance, seeing three tracks in the top six of the countdown, beloved outfit Spacey Jane has announced a regional Australia tour bringing the iconic indie rockers to Mackay in June.

The band’s drummer and manager Kieran Lama had a chat with our journalist Sam to talk about their meteoric rise to stardom and the sound that got them there.

When I was living in Brisbane, I remember a friend inviting me to see this band Spacey Jane playing at the zoo. Suddenly, I think you played three sold-out shows at the zoo and now you’re one of the biggest bands in the country. Did that rise in popularity feel as rapid from the inside as it did from the outside?

Definitely. It felt like it came out of nowhere for us, as well. After Sunlight came out and within the context of the pandemic, it just hit us without us really getting a chance to catch up to it, which is honestly the best thing that could’ve happened. It was really great to feel like things were moving so quickly and only now have we really had the opportunity to catch our breath and look back with a fair amount of gratitude more than anything, other than being a little bit of a headscratcher as to what on earth happened. It’s been super special, and I think all of our lives got turned upside down pretty quickly.

You use the term headscratcher but, if you had to guess, what do you feel are the reasons for the sudden explosion?

I have a lot of confidence in the songs themselves and I can say that because I don’t write them, I just play the drums, so I think Caleb (singer/guitarist/songwriter) tapped into something really special. Especially in 2020 when times were tough for a lot of people in terms of becoming a very introspective circumstance. I think his writing, the lyrics and also maybe the way we present and the way we are as people and as a band identity-wise, I think it was something that people could really connect with. I think guitar music will always be a staple in Australia and we’re just happy to bear that torch, even if just for a little bit. We could also just be a very lucky group of people who were doing the right thing at the right time, who knows?

Within that Australian guitar music scene, you’ve crafted a pretty distinctive sound and you can hear bands replicating it all over the country, who were your influences in crafting that sound?

We started just bashing instruments in a shed listening to stuff like early Kings of Leon, the Strokes, Arctic Monkeys, that kind of thing. We didn’t so much idolise the rock and roll lifestyle but the sound of that era, the early 2000s indie rock reformation, I suppose. Songwriter-wise, Caleb, and we all do, love Wilco, Coldplay, that kind of stuff. I think part of the sound that we have is the product of the circumstances in which we were making music. We were just playing in a shed together all the time. We didn’t know the first thing about equipment or gear so we just played for the fun of it on the weekends. As we got more and more into it, found a bit of a groove in the studio and get an understanding of how to make things the way we wanted to make them, I guess it just developed from there. It’s interesting because it’s never felt like we wanted to sound a certain way, I guess it’s just the natural conclusion of the four of us in a room together with access to recording equipment and cool shit in a studio.

How important is it to you and the band to tour regional areas like Mackay?

It’s super great that we can actually do it. We want to take advantage of that opportunity and make sure that we’re going to places. A lot of us grew up in regional WA so if we had the opportunity to see artists we loved back then, it would’ve meant the world to us. There’s definitely more in the works in terms of creative ways to tour Australia because there is so much of this country that we haven’t seen and would love to see. The fact that being in a band facilitates that to some level is pretty astounding.

I can say from what I’m hearing around the place that Mackay is very excited, what can we expect from your show in June?

I reckon a fair bit of sweat on the stage. We tend to give a lot of energy in the live shows. I mean, I’m sitting down so it’s chill for me, but the others are jumping around and going crazy, Ashton in particular gets a lot of hang time. It’s going to be fun. I think we are very much a live band, first and foremost. We played a lot of gigs around Perth before we ever got the opportunity to leave for the eastern states so it’s something we take a lot of pride in and we really want to put our best foot forward, especially for places that we’re playing for the first time. We’ve got something to prove and I hope we can do that.

WHAT: Spacey Jane

WHERE: Harrup Park

WHEN: Thursday, June 1

TICKETS: Oztix

‍

Kucom Theatre has announced the cast of its July production, Perfect Wedding, a comedy by Robin Hawdon directed by Kathryn Evans.

Lani Seaton and Zachary Trounson will fill the leading roles as bride and groom alongside Michael Brennan, Asta Ryan, Carolyn Roche and Kristyn Everett.

A Mackay Festival of Arts Fringe event, Perfect Wedding opens on Thursday, July 6 with early bird tickets available from Humanitix from Monday, April 24.

Meanwhile, the Theatre’s AGM was held last month, seeing the 2023 Management Committee officially named.

Bronwyn Grannall will fill the role of President, Maureen Coleman Vice President, Carolyn Roche Secretary and Tessa King Treasurer.

Congratulations were also given to Maureen Coleman, Ken Sanders, John Irvine and Bronwyn Grannall who were elected Life Members of the Theatre at the AGM.

In her report as Convener of Kucom’s Fundraising and Grants Subcommittee, Vice President Maureen Coleman made an announcement that will be welcome news to regular patrons.

“It is ... with great pleasure that I have been asked by the committee to inform you all that we have put in the order for the seating and the deposit has been paid,” she said.

“We hope to see installation after the production of Perfect Wedding in July.”

The installation of a retractable seating system will come ahead of a busy 2023 season, with Victor Scott directing Things I Know To Be True by acclaimed Australian playwright Andrew Bovell in October.

Victor is well known to Mackay audiences as the director of Ruthless and First Date for Mackay Musical Comedy Players, and more specifically to Kucom audiences for his ground-breaking 2021 production of When the Rain Stops Falling, also by Andrew Bovell.

‍

‍

Front L-R: Bronwyn Grannall (President), Mayor Greg Williamson (Patron), Carolyn Roche (Secretary). Back L -R: Joe Clutterbuck, James Hunter, Tessa King (Treasurer), Jayne Royal. Inset: Maureen Coleman (Vice President). Photo supplied

‍

Mackay Choral Society is proud to present The Pirates of Penzance by Gilbert & Sullivan.

Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera is packed full of sentimental pirates, blundering policeman, absurd adventures and improbable paradoxes.

Frederic, a pirate’s apprentice, falls head-over-heels in love with Mabel, the daughter of Major-General Stanley.

Frederic is due to be released from his apprenticeship on his 21st birthday, but there’s a snag.

Born on 29 February, Frederic discovers that he is technically still a youngster.

Although very much in love, his dedication to duty is unshakeable.

Can he find a way to live happily-ever-after with Mabel?

The production brings together a who’s who of local talent, including Ken Brown making his directorial debut.

“In 2022 I was offered the opportunity to direct, for the first time, this amazing operetta that has a place in my heart,” said Mr Brown.

“My hope is to bring a childhood sense of wonder to all watching this production of Pirates of Penzance.”

Ken’s mother Judith will be the resident orchestra, filling the role of AM Accompanist having accompanied Mackay Choral Society’s 2009 production of The Pirates of Penzance.

It is also the third show that Jeanette Oberg and Bernie Camilleri-Cheng have produced together, with assistance from Nicole Thomson as Musical Director.

The cast also features local stars including Greg Webb, Berni Camilleri-Cheng, Caitlyn Schurmann and Sue Dalton.

Find Mackay Choral Society on Facebook for more information.

WHAT: Mackay Choral Society presents The Pirates of Penzance

WHEN: Saturday April 15, 2:00pm and 7:30pm and Sunday April 16, 2:00pm

WHERE: Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

TICKETS: www.trybooking.com/CFARA

‍

Queensland musical treasures Busby Marou will be the first band ever to perform at Cape Hillsborough in a massive showcase of their new album in a Mackay exclusive event this July.

The band, comprised of Jeremy Marou and Thomas Busby, will headline the signature event of the Queensland Music Trails’ ‘Reef Trail’ and will be joined by local artists in the natural splendour of Cape Hillsborough.

In ‘Between the Tides’ – the Reef Trail’s “signature event” according to Queensland Arts Minister Leeanne Enoch - the duo will play between two tidal movements on the nationally famous beach in a “unique and intimate experience” on July 7 and 8.

“It's going to be a couple of unforgettable nights as the first-ever band to perform there,” Thomas Busby said.

“We can't wait to showcase our new album 'Blood Red' and jam out to some favourites.”

Minister Enoch said the experience begins with local music at an eco-friendly pop-up food and beverage bar in the parklands before attendees head down the beach at dusk, encouraged to bring only themselves and what they can carry before the band play their new album in full.

"The Music Trails align with the priorities of Creative Together, our ten-year roadmap to transform the state through creativity, activating communities with rich arts and cultural experiences,” she said.

Between the Tides is a limited-ticket, all-age event, with tickets on sale at qldmusictrails.com.

Tickets for Between the Tides go on pre-sale from March 31, and patrons can sign up to get information early at qldmusictrails.com. The general sale starts on April 11.

Between the Tides is a Queensland Music Trails event presented by QMF and Mackay Regional Council and supported by Brisbane Airport Corporation, Capricornia Energy Hub and Containers for Change.

Qld Music Trails are supported by the Queensland Government.

‍

‍

Queensland music royalty Busby Marou have been announced as the first-ever band to play on Cape Hillsborough Beach as part of a massive Queensland Music Trails event

‍

Orange has been the colour of choice over the past two weeks with schools, businesses and organisations coming together as a community to celebrate Harmony Day.

Harmony Day is the celebration that recognises diversity, bringing together Australians from all backgrounds.

Mackay Regional Council and The Neighbourhood Hub held an event last Tuesday, March 21 to celebrate Mackay’s multicultural community.

Multicultural groups shared their culture by wearing traditional dress and guest speaker Indriani shared her story as an Indonesian migrant.

Meanwhile schools such as Whitsunday Anglican College, St Joseph's Catholic Primary School and Mackay North State High School all held events to celebrate the diversity within their school communities.

Click here to see the photos

‍

‍

Mackay Regional Council, The Neighbourhood Hub and Mackay’s multicultural community came together to celebrate Harmony Day. Photo supplied: Mackay Regional Council

‍

In an action-packed week for St Joseph's Catholic Primary School, hundreds of students, parents and siblings jumped on their treadly and rode to school for National Ride to School Day.

Meeting and departing from Pioneer Swim Centre, students rode their elaborately decorated bikes through the Gooseponds to the school where they were met with breakfast provided by Mackay Regional Council.

Information sessions were then held by Corry Cycles and Mackay PCYC before a brand new bike, donated by Corry Cycles, was given away.

“It’s an initiative to put bike riding to school at the forefront of kids minds,” said Corry Cycles owner Evan Corry.

“This school’s got bike racks at the front gate and you always see a few bikes there but it’d be great to see a few more after today.”

Mr Corry informed students of the safety of helmets and bike maintenance while Sargent Dorinda Freeman, Relief Branch Manager at Mackay PCYC, elaborated on road safety.

“We’ll be making students aware of what they need to look out for to get to school and how to navigate streets safely,” Ms Freeman said.

253 students, parents and siblings participated in the ride including Kristen Kachel who has two children at the school.

“It was a good opportunity to have the morning off, be with the kids, get involved with the school community and support a healthy approach to life,” Ms Kachel said.

“I think it’s a great opportunity for the kids to get outside and be active and see how much fun it is to be on a pushy.”

‍

Sargent Dorinda Freeman of Mackay PCYC and Evan Corry of Corry Cycles led National Ride to School Day information sessions at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

After 60 years in the industry, a local pharmacy icon is moving onto her next chapter after selling her Mount Pleasant based business.

Lynette Dupuy started working in a pharmacy at the age of 15, following in her father’s footsteps, and will finish her tenure this weekend.

Ms Dupuy’s father opened K M Dupuy Chemist in Sydney Street in 1934.

He passed away 19 years later and inspired Ms Dupuy to take up the profession to keep the family business going.

“I was 12 or 13 and then my fate was sealed,” she said.

Travelling to Brisbane to acquire her registration, Ms Dupuy worked in Brisbane and Cairns, all the while owning the family pharmacy.

She and her husband opened a new pharmacy in Mount Pleasant before building the current pharmacy in 1996.

Throughout her 60 years in the industry, Ms Dupuy specialised in a variety of areas including clinical nutrition, medicine compounding and vaccinations.

“All of those sorts of things I enjoy because originally I wanted to do medicine,” she said.

“I enjoy looking after people.

“I’ve had people coming in here the last few days begging me to stay.

“In all those things that I do, people come in here and ask me something and I usually know the answer.

“My brain never stops!”

The industry has changed aplenty over the years and Ms Dupuy has seen it all, striving to stay on top of the evolution of pharmacy.

“When I became a pharmacist – I’ve still got some of my dad’s books – it was the end of writing things in books in pharmacy; we started using a computer and software,” she said.

“It’s been a progression to the state it is now that everything is becoming electronic over the period of about 10 years.”

Ms Dupuy’s career has taken her across the world, with pharmacy conferences leading her and her husband to over 80 countries.

“I’ve made a lot of friends in Australia, Canada, England, everywhere,” she said.

“I enjoyed the company of pharmacists, doctors and physiotherapists.

“I enjoyed interacting with other people outside Mackay and I learnt a lot.”

Travel is one thing that Ms Dupuy hopes to do more of in the future.

“I’m looking forward to having Easter off, being with my family, going to see plays, going to do things, that’s what I’m looking forward to,” she said.

While she looks forward to retirement, she’s considering returning to the workforce in either clinical nutrition or pharmacy, plans to write books about her family history and her career and may even further her study.

“After about three months, I’ll make a decision,” she said.

“I just want some time to myself.”

‍

‍

This weekend is Lynette Dupuy’s last weekend as a full-time pharmacist. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

‍

Schools, businesses and organisations across the region came together last week to celebrate Harmony Day.

Grade 6 students at St Joseph's Catholic Primary School celebrated Harmony Day by hosting a play, scavenger hunt, chalk art and eat street markets, celebrating the 46 different cultures represented in the school.

“We’ve been learning about refugees and asylum seekers and their cultural backgrounds and the culture they bring into Australia that creates Australia’s cultural diversity,” said St Joseph’s School Captain Farrah Hamilton.

“It’s important to celebrate cultural diversity and to thank everyone for coming into Australia and making it the amazing place that it is,” added fellow School Captain Mila Hinschen.

Mackay North State High School celebrated similarly with chalk art, dumplings and plenty of orange.

Meanwhile, Mackay Regional Council teamed up with the Neighbourhood Hub to celebrate Mackay’s multicultural community.

Multicultural groups shared their culture by wearing traditional dress and sharing information and guest speaker Indriani shared her story as an Indonesian migrant.

‍

St Joseph's Catholic Primary School celebrated Harmony Day last week. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Mackay North State High School put their chalk art skills to the test. Photos supplied

Mackay Regional Council and Neighbourhood Hub held a Harmony Day event. Photos supplied

‍

‍

Some of Australian music’s heaviest hitters are heading to Mackay after Unify Gathering announced their touring festival UNIFY Off The Record 2023.

The rock, metal and punk festival, usually held in South Gippsland, Victoria, announced it will be taking a break in 2023, touring a mini festival around Australia instead visiting Mackay, Wollongong, Adelaide, Hobart and Frankston.

“When we made the decision to skip the 2023 gathering, we knew right away that we wanted to do something to fill the space left,” the festival said in a statement.

UNIFY Off The Record will feature a diverse roster of acts, celebrating heavy music at an intimate club show at the Seabreeze Hotel.

Thornhill, Void of Vision, Young Lions, Wildheart and locals Arcade Stories will all be taking the stage in May.

The event will also include pop up stores, artist signings and workshops before and after doors, with the aim to bring as much of UNIFY on the road as is possible.

“UNIFY is obviously a music festival, but it’s also always been an opportunity to bring our heavy music loving community together to share our experiences and learn,” the statement continued.

“We’re taking that ethos with us on the Off The Record road trip, working alongside APRA AMCOS and Support Act to host some real-talk sessions on everything from song writing to mental health, and providing exclusive insight into some of the Off The Record artist’s own stories.

“You’ll also be able to hit up the travelling pop up merch shop, selling our exclusive UNIFY Off The Record merch and other hard-to-find goodies.”

WHAT: UNIFY Off The Record 2023

WHERE: Seabreeze Hotel

WHEN: Saturday, May 20

TICKETS: unifygathering.com

‍

Melbourne’s Thornhill will headline the UNIFYOff The Record in Mackay. Photo supplied

Reverend Dr Julia Pitman

This Easter you are invited to attend church to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the divine Son of God.

At Easter, Christians are called to put aside the cares of work, family, and holidays to worship the triumphant risen Lord. ‘Up from the grave he arose’, is the first line of the 1874 gospel song by Baptist pastor and church musician, Robert Lowry, ‘with a mighty triumph o’er his foes.

He arose a victor from the dark domain, and he lives forever with his saints to reign. He arose, He arose! Hallelujah, Christ arose.’

The Bible invites us to follow Jesus in his sacrifice of his life for the world and his resurrection from the dead. As we live our lives every day as baptised believers, we follow the path of Christ’s death and resurrection.

When we sacrifice our lives and live in the light of the resurrection, then we abolish fear, restore confidence, and abound in joy!

In the final verse of Charles Wesley’s famous hymn, ‘Christ the Lord is risen today’, our resurrection life is transcendent, like the path of an eagle: ‘Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia! Following our exalted Head; made like him, like him we rise, ours the cross, the grave, the skies.’

REV. DR JULIA PITMAN

Minister, St Paul’s Uniting Church

‍

One of the country’s largest Comedy Festivals is sending its best and brightest on the road to arrive in Mackay on April 27.

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow will return to the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) with familiar favourites from this year’s Festival line-up, alongside the most talked-about breakthrough stars of the moment.

Comedian, self-proclaimed beer enthusiast, and cheeky scallywag Brett Blake MCs the evening alongside internationally recognised comedian Anirban Dasgupta.

Blake brings his brilliant digs at Aussie culture and Dusgupta – who vaunts an Instagram following of over 155 thousand and over 15 million views on excerpts of his skits – his effortless stage presence.

Joining them on the line-up are Bronwyn Kuss, Stuart Daulman, and He Huang – certainly a guaranteed great night out.

Manager of MECC & Events Andrew Bobeldyk said comedy is always a popular choice for Mackay locals.

“Laughter makes us feel good and helps us relax. Each year we receive great feedback following the Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow. Our audiences always enjoy their night” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“The festival has visited the MECC 15 times in 15 years. It’s quite popular!” he continued.

The night of entertainment will begin at 6.30pm with live music in the MECC North Foyer by local musician Jonte Tupaea.

For a one-way ticket to laughter, those looking for their next comedy fix should book now.

‍

‍

The Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow is bringing its stellar line-up to Mackay in April

‍

From The Venerable Dr Rosemary Dunn

Christ dies, and Christ lives. Sure, but what difference does it make to my life? Well, the Easter story is actually about everyone’s life. Jesus endures what all of us face at some time: betrayal, injustice, hurt, insults, suffering.

OK, most mightn’t face literal crucifixion – although some do. But suffering is a part of life and humans don’t seem to be able to stop this suffering.

But Christians understand that God, who created this universe in love and is love, comes into this world in Jesus to face all the rubbish that we do.

And although he suffers like us, he responds to that suffering in a way that most of us can’t- with love and forgiveness.

Jesus faces his tormentors and says: ‘Father forgive them for they know not what they do’. Jesus hands his accusers to God, for God’s will to be done: that his creatures find new life.

Jesus will not participate in the cycle of human vengeance – and so he breaks the cycle of death.  

In a world of destruction and cynicism,  Easter reminds us that God continues to share his compassion, love and grace with us, so that we can bring new life to our lives, now and forever.

Be blessed as you share Easter love with others!

‍

It was one year ago that the Mackay community excitedly came together to check out the new watering hole in town, Red Dog Brewery.

Offering fresh and flavourful beers made onsite, as well as a unique range of independent spirits and drinks, Red Dog clearly filled a gap in the market because, one year on, the brewery is going stronger than ever and is excited to invite everyone back for a big first birthday celebration.

Celebrations will kick off with beers pouring from 1:00pm tomorrow, Saturday April 1.

The brewery’s “Win Your Weight in Beer” promotion will get underway at 4:00pm, with draws every half hour until the main draw at 7:00pm, followed by a headline set from local band Wild Sky to entertain crowds into the night.

Head Brewer Jamie “Woodsy” Woods reflected on the year; the result of a bold decision to leave his office job and follow his passion for beer.

“It’s been a great ride so far,” he said.

“Everyone’s been really supportive, and we just keep doing what we do, and people keep showing up and supporting us.”

Throughout the year, the team at Red Dog has experimented with 10 different beers, all suited to the Mackay market, with their red ale even claiming 34th spot in the GABS Aussie Craft Beers New Releases Hottest 100.

The newest drop launches tomorrow, a session XPA that has become Jamie’s favourite.

“It’s a mid-strength, hoppy American pale ale,” he said.

“It’s right where I want it to be; it’s not super heavy in terms of alcohol content but it’s got all the flavours that you want in a craft beer.

“I think it’ll be popular.”

You may have also enjoyed a schooner of Red Dog at other venues including Hotel Mackay, The Duke of Edinburgh Hotel, Bar 94, Rare and Mackay Golf Club, with the brewery selling wholesale throughout the region.

They’ve also expanded to include a truck bar and are about to begin canning their beers, so enjoying a Red Dog beer is about to become easier than ever.

Not only has Red Dog provided the Mackay community with a unique watering hole, but the brewery has fostered many local musicians over the year, serving as an ideal location for live music.

The brewery has extended their license area for tomorrow’s celebrations and will have the pizza kitchen pumping out delicious hot pizzas.

“For those people that are thinking, ‘Should we come?’ definitely come out because we’ve got plenty of extra space for everyone,” Jamie said.

After a year of highlights, celebrations and memories made, Jamie is looking forward to commemorating the milestone in style and said there’s more to come.

“There’s something exciting in the works that we’ll be able to share with everyone shortly,” he said.

WHAT: Red Dog Brewery’s 1st Birthday

WHEN: Saturday, April 1 from 1:00pm

WHERE: Red Dog Brewery

‍

Woodsy and the team are celebrating one year ofRed Dog Brewery tomorrow. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

Friday 31 March

Autumn Orchid Show

Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm and Saturday, 8:00am to 3:00pm

Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc presents their Autumn Orchid Show at the Sporting Wheelies Hall. Orchids for sale. Pots, Potting Medium, Tags etc. Orchid Culture Demonstrations. $2 coin donation. Raffles Email: mdos.secretary@gmail.com. Phone 0435002990. Webpage: www.mdos.com.au.

Sporting Wheelies Hall, 78 Bridge Road, South Mackay

CASA Monthly BBQ

Friday, 10:00am to 12:00pm

Come down for a snag and a yarn.

CASA - Community Accommodation & Support Agency Inc.

Open Mic Night

Friday, 7:00pm

The headliner for Open Mic Night is Patricia O’Brien-Price visiting from Maryborough, with MC Deanne from North Queensland hosting the night. If you have thought about giving stand-up comedy a go, send Mackay Open Mic Comedy Group a Facebook message and they will put you on the list (strictly five minutes or less). Doors open at 7PM. $10 Entry at the door.

Ambassador Hotel

Film & Arts Mackay Film Night: FULL TIME

Friday, 7:30pm

The marvellous Laure Calamy demonstrates the phenomenal range of her talents in writer/director Eric Gravel’s gripping new drama FULL TIME, as a single woman pushed to her limits when the delicate balance between her home and work life is upended. AGM prior to screening from 7.00pm.

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

Karlie Wise Live at the Seabreeze Hotel

Friday, 8:30pm to 11:30pm

Cap off your work week at the Seabreeze Hotel and dance the night away.

Seabreeze Hotel

Saturday 1 April

Mackay Cutters Round Four

Saturday, 9:15am

9:15am | GATES OPEN. 10:00am |Cyril Connell Challenge. 11:30am | Mal Meninga Cup. 1:00pm | Harvey Norman Women's. 2:30pm | Hastings Deering Colts (TRIAL). 4:15pm |BMD Premiership. 6:15pm | Hostplus Cup. Get around game day and cheer on the Cutters as they take on CQ Capras.

BB Print Stadium

Come, Try N Play Wheelchair Rugby League

Saturday, 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Wheelchair Rugby League is not just a sport for people with disabilities. It is an inclusive sport that is a variation of the rugby league running game. People with and without disabilities play on the same team. Men, women, boys and girls can all play Wheelchair Rugby League. NRL Wheelchair invites you to come along and try this all-inclusive recreational activity. Whether you are interested in playing, volunteering or supporting – or would like to know more about the game – everyone is welcome. People who register and attend will receive a free participation pack. This is the perfect way to see what the sport is all about.

Mackay PCYC

Red Dog Brewery’s 1st Birthday

Saturday, 1:00pm

Celebrate one year of fine brews at Red Dog Brewery. With plenty of prizes on offer, the pizza kitchen open and Wild Sky performing from 7, it’s sure to be a worthy celebration.

Red Dog Brewery

SUNDAY 2 APRIL

Calen Chappy Chat and Dedication Service

Sunday, 12.30pm-1.30pm Chappy Chat

Sunday, 2.15pm Dedication of signage and school chaplain

Join the Calen Uniting Church for their free Chappy Chat informal question and answer session at lunchtime.

Stay on into the afternoon for a church service and sumptuous afternoon tea with Lesley Tunnah on guitar, children’s talk and activities, and a dedication of new signage with signwriter Maree Gutschlag and Alun Tunnah as the new Calen District State School Chaplain. All welcome!

Calen Uniting Church, 42 McIntyre Street, Calen

Monday 3 April

Free Eggciting Easter Activities

Monday to Saturday

Hippity hop, Easter’s on its way and Caneland Central have plenty of FREE Easter Activities to keep your little ones entertained! You can get your face painted, enjoy crafts, meet the Easter bunny and take part in the Mega Easter Egg Hunt!

Caneland Central

Free Teen Confidence Building Workshop

Wednesday, 9:00am to 3:00pm

First day of school holidays and what better way to start the two weeks off than with a fun-filled day learning all things self-confidence and Teen building. Phil will guide you in how to feel good within yourself, stand up and be proud, work through certain situation and stand strong and proud. Phil’s training style is second to none and he just gets the Teens. He is enthusiastic to make a change in our Teenagers’ lives. Your teen will be wanting to come back for more.

Get It Done Training

Tuesday 4 April

Yoga for Youth

Tuesday, 4:45pm to 5:45pm

Welcoming all teens aged 12 - 18 to the Yoga for Youth Class over the school holidays. Join in for a 60-minute Vinyasa (flowing) Yoga Class exclusively for teens. This class is suitable for beginners through to advanced yoga students and is a 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. Attire: Comfortable clothing for movement. $10 per student. Online bookings essential as tickets are capped.

Mackay Northern Beaches State High School

Wednesday 5 April

Soul Jam Wednesdays at The Kooyong Hotel

Every Wednesday, 6:00pm to 11:00pm

Soul Jam has an intimate room to itself where they will be hosting another friendly space to share your originals, jam with others and experiment with music. They supply a drummer and guitarist, bass also available. All artists are welcome including Slam Poetry and comedians.

The Kooyong Hotel

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

Thursday 6 April

Chair Yoga in North Mackay

Every Thursday, 2:00pm

Using a chair for support (either sitting or standing) Chair Yoga is a practice of gentle movement, combined with mindful breathing & meditation. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to focus on a gentle, nurturing practice. Chair Yoga can improve your balance, flexibility, concentration & strength while boosting your mood, and reducing stress and joint strain. Bookings are essential. Call or text your full name to 0434 940 300 or message the Wellness With Deb Facebook page.

Palmview Village Community Centre, via Oasis Drive / Bradford St.

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

‍

Entries are now open for Mackay`s prestigious Woollam Art on Show Awards.

Mackay Show Association announced the launch of Mackay`s highly popular, non- acquisitive 2023 National Art Prize, returning August 4-7, with new additions to further highlight art and culture in the region.

Celebrating seventeen years of art excellence, The Mackay Show Association’s initiative behind establishing The Art on Show Awards was to take the arts to a higher level of professionalism within the context of a community art competition in the show “arena”.

The Association strives to seek a significant level of participation from artists locally, interstate and nationwide while providing a high standard of presentation.

Art on Show plays an integral part in Mackay’s cultural future as a high-profile arts event and provides an educational role, raising awareness and promoting the arts to patrons who attend the event and the Mackay Regional Show.

The Art on Show Awards have five sections of entry with the major prize the Woollam Art on Show Award being $3,000 and the total prize purse increasing to $12,000.

As always, Mackay Show Association has secured the services of a high-profile judge with nationally and internationally acclaimed Australian artist Anneke Silver judging this year’s competition.

Townsville Artist Dr. Anneke Silver loves the tropical North as a place to live, and the diversities of subject matter it offers, from interpretations of landscape to rainforests, vast expanses of the outback as well as the typical architecture.

Most of her life has been divided between art practice and art teaching, enjoying the interaction between the two.

Art on Show is the starting point for many local artists to exhibit and launch their careers, also focusing on unearthing new talent amongst emerging high school senior art students by working closely with our region’s Art Educators

All works will also be available for purchase during the exhibition.

Art on Show will open on the evening of Friday, August 4 and the exhibition will be open until Monday, August 7.

Visit artonshow.com.au for more information and to enter.

WHAT: Art on Show

WHERE: Mackay Showgrounds

WHEN: Friday, August 4 until Monday, August 7

‍

‍

Winner of the 2022 Art on Show Award Artist Emily Jayne Carroll and her work entitled Fredrick

Artist Dr Anneke Silver, nationally and internationally acclaimed Australian artist, will judge the 2023 Art on Show Awards competition

Coordinator Melissa Broadhurst and Cynthia Williams view entries in 2022 exhibition. Photos supplied

‍

Meet The Dancers

Part 3

Mackay Hospital Foundation is well-known for signature events that bring the community together, and Dancing With Heart is no different.

Tonight, Friday March 31, eight local identities will take to the dance floor to showcase their individual dance styles in support of our local hospitals.

Each dancer has been working with Dolly Louw from Fame Talent School to fine tune their skills on the dance floor, with each dance choreographed especially for the individual performer.

Read on to meet the last two dancers taking to the dancefloor tonight and the dance teacher behind it all.

Kay Nyenuh – Muscle Garden

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

Dancing is not something I’d usually put my hand up for let alone doing it on stage in front of a crowd! But anyone who knows me well would know that I’d do anything for charity, especially for the Mackay Hospital Foundation. So here we are!

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is amazing. I am not a natural at a lot of things and dancing is definitely one of those but what I don’t have a shortage of is the ability to put in the work to get better. Dolly is patient and she knows her stuff so we’re getting there.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

I don’t know about getting on the dance floor but I can definitely move my body to any RnB, Hip Hop or any Rock song with a good beat and sound, lyrics and melody.

What is your go to dance move?

I’m African so dancing with the hips is a given.

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

Given that they’re working with Dolly, I think it’ll be very entertaining.

Cathy Sullivan – Mount Pleasant

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

I am very passionate about the Mackay Community and like to do what I can to help where I can.  At Mount Pleasant, we are committed to giving back to our community and this is one way I can do that, by raising funds for the Hospital Foundation and having some fun at the same time.

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is an amazing teacher and I am learning so much! She is very patient. I have about 80% of the dance done, now I need to practice what I’ve learnt so far to be ready for the final moves.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

I can’t let an opportunity to do the Nutbush pass me by.

What is your go to dance move?

I don’t really have one, although if I don’t really know the song, a bit of a side step sway will do!

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

I’m expecting nothing but the best from everyone on the night. We are all community-oriented people and although everyone is extremely nervous, like me, they are all willing to step outside their comfort zones to provide the audience with a once in a lifetime show!

Dolly Louw – Dance Teacher (Fame Talent School)

How and why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

I was contacted by the Hospital Foundation to see if I would be interested in choreographing and training the dancers. I had heard a similar charity event had been held in Brisbane and that it was a huge success. I love helping out and thought it was a great opportunity for me.  

How has your work with all the dancers been?

It’s been an absolute blast. I have enjoyed meeting and getting to know everyone. Dancing on stage really takes you out of your comfort zone. The dancers have all worked hard and are bringing lots of energy to their performances. The audience is going to love it. It’s very hard to compare teaching adults for performances like this, with teaching my regular students. These guys are complete novices, but the really cool thing is, they can dance better than they ever imagined they could.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

I love all 80s music.

What is your go to dance move?

I love a good chair dance.

This has been pretty epic to put this show together because everybody works different hours and personally, I am busy with the studio and family life. My Fame backup dancers have been fabulous and have given up their free time to come and rehearse on both weekdays and Sundays. I really appreciate the effort they have put in. On the night, I hope we raise the roof and a whole lot of money for the Hospital Foundation. It’s a very grassroots and practical cause.

WHAT: Dancing With Heart

WHERE: MECC

WHEN: Tonight, Friday March 31

‍

Mackay’s newest sporting arena, Great Barrier Reef Arena, was opened in emphatic style last Saturday at Harrup Park’s Party in the Park.

With live music from Wild Sky and Graeme Connors, amusement rides, activities, fireworks and the DBCT Poole Cup Cricket final, it was impossible not to get excited.

‍

‍

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

‍

Meet The Dancers

Part 2

Mackay Hospital Foundation is well-known for signature events that bring the community together, and Dancing With Heart is no different.

On Friday March 31, eight local identities will take to the dance floor to showcase their individual dance styles in support of our local hospitals.

Each dancer has been working with Dolly Louw from Fame Talent School to fine tune their skills on the dance floor, with each dance choreographed especially for the individual performer.

Read on to meet three more dancers.

Tegan Jones – Dysart Hospital

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

I am the Business Manager at the Dysart Hospital and the health and wellbeing of our community, especially our kids, is very important to me. I am the boots on the ground seeing the work that our clinical and support staff do to provide a service to our patients. We are working really hard to continuously improve, there are always new ways to support patients and families in their journey through the health system. Of course, everything costs money, so having the Hospital Foundation behind us to support equipment purchases and facility upgrades to improve the experience of patients at our facility is amazing!

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Well, I can't dance so it's not going well honestly. My first lesson with Dolly is actually on Monday, so I feel very sorry for her!

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

As they say out here in Dysart, there are only two types of music, Country and Western. But I also enjoy heavy metal and the boys from Booyah did get me into Hooligan Hefs.

What is your go to dance move?

My go-to dance move is definitely the two step, however my line manager did show me a move called the shopping trolley last week so I will have to practice that one.

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

Well, I have heard that Cathy has already had 5 lessons, and Bing just opened a karaoke bar, so he has his own practice space. It's going to be such a great night.

I am flying the flag for the rural health services, from Prossie, Bowen, Collinsville, Sarina, Moranbah, Clermont, Middlemount and of course through to Dysart. We are all supported by the Mackay Hospital Foundation so get behind your local hospital by donating today!

Renae Kunst – Queensland Rugby League

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

The lovely Brenda from the Mackay Hospital foundation reached out to me to assist although she may have failed to mention I would be dancing after already agreeing. How could I say no when it goes to such a great cause.

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is such a gem human being and so patient. I am hopeless but she keeps me laughing (actually I think this is the other way around)

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

This is the thing; I have never been the dancing type so I am well out of my comfort zone

What is your go to dance move?

I have always had a huge appreciation for the athleticism on display from dances, unfortunately none of these skills pertain to me.

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

I have meant this wonderful bunch of people and I am sure they will put their best foot forward. It will be a fun and eventful night that will contribute to the wonderful work the organisation does.

Paul Manttan – Mackay West State School

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?  

As Principal of a local primary school, I know all too well about the important role of Mackay Hospital Foundation and their support of patients and families, particularly kids.

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is a superstar taking on the challenge of teaching me to follow some dance moves.  She’s a very patient lady and I can only hope I do her proud on the night of Dancing with Heart.  I think the dance is coming along quite well, others may not agree….  Whatever the case, it will be very entertaining I’m sure.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?  

I can’t go past “Low” for Flo Rida.  

What is your go to dance move?

The sprinkler is definitely my favourite.  Sometimes the shopping trolley comes out after a few cordials!

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?  

I’m expecting that all the dancers will be well rehearsed and pumped for the night by the time 31st March comes around.  I’m sure we’re going to see some personality coming out in the dances as the night rolls on.  

Don’t forget to grab next week’s paper for the final profiles.

‍

STARFLEET International officially opened its Star Trek Mackay Chapter USS Pacifica during a function last Saturday at the Mackay Surf Club.

The commissioning comes after a nine month “Shake Down” where members have built rapport and relationships while adapting to their various roles.

For over 40 years STARFLEET International has provided Star Trek fans a way to meet each other, make friends, have fun, give back to their communities and show that the dream of Gene Roddenberry can live long and prosper.

“On the local level members can gather with other fans for a variety of enjoyable activities,” revealed Captain Matthew Perna.

“The USS Pacifica is the newest addition to the fleet, comprised of members based in and around Central Queensland.

“We are a family orientated Chapter and enjoy meeting up at conventions, recreating the costumes and props of the shows and to share our love of Star Trek – and other pop culture too.

“We welcome all forms of Star Trek from the classic 1960s Trek to the current New Trek movies and TV shows.”

The group meets on the second Sunday each month at the Haven Gaming & Pop Culture store in Sydney Street Mackay from 11am.

For further enquiries email: info@usspacifica.org.au

‍

‍

USS Pacifica members Captain Matthew Perna, Executive Officer Jess O’Neill, Chief of Tactical Lt Jason Heart, Chief of Engineering Lt Scott Marshall, Chief Medical Lt Lulu Mollis, Junior Grade Communications Officer Lt Alana McAnulty, Chief of Communications Lt Trevor May, Engineering Officer Crewman Felicia Scott, Marcus Perna and Emily Perna

Captain Matthew Perna and Executive Officer Jess O’Neill at the official opening of Mackay’s new Star Trek Chapter USS Pacifica at Mackay Surf Club. Photo credit: Chris Karas

‍

The Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) kicked off “Take a Child to the Theatre Day” this week by giving away yo-yos and bookmarks to all children who visit the box office between Monday March 20th and Saturday March 25.

Take a Child to the Theatre Day is an annual day of celebration, to encourage families to introduce children to the benefits and enchantment of live theatre.

MECC and Events Manager Andrew Bobeldyk said the yo-yo and bookmark giveaways are the MECC’s way to welcome new faces into the building.

“We want all families to feel welcomed when they visit our theatre,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“If you haven’t been to the MECC before, come along and say hello.

“Our box office team will welcome all children with a yo-yo and a bookmark,” he said.

It’s no surprise that theatre promotes education and literacy.

Studies have shown theatre can motivate a child to read more, increasing their comprehension levels and their ability to connect with a story.

Each year, the DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season brings stage adaptations of popular children’s books to the MECC stage.

Previous years have included performances The Hungry Caterpillar, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and Pete the Sheep.

“The 2023 season includes Possum Magic, Just Live, Wind in the Willows and Roald Dahl’s The Twits,” Mr Bobeldyk said.

“All fantastic books, which will be brought to life with the magic of theatre.

“Sponsored by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal, a family pass to any performance in DBCT Kids’ Theatre Season is $60, making it an affordable children’s theatre option.”

Families are advised they do not need to make a purchase to receive free yo-yos and bookmarks for their children.

Simply visit the box office, say hello, and the staff will welcome you with a smile, a bookmark and a yo-yo.

Offer ends Saturday March 25 at 1pm.

‍

Bringing a slice of Cuba to Mackay, the 2023 Mayor’s Charity Ball officially launched last Friday with the theme of Havana Nights.

There will be plenty of lush greenery at the MECC on Saturday, May 6 and the night promises to be “hot, hot, hot” on the dance floor, with the award-winning Salsa Kingz Band playing.

Mayor Greg Williamson said Havana Nights was the room theme for the Ball.

“Those attending will feel like they’ve taken a trip to Cuba for the night,’’ he said.

But the dress code for the Ball remained formal, Mr Williamson confirmed.

“It isn’t a fancy dress event, but ball-goers should feel free to accessorise to add to the Havana Nights feel,’’ he said.

This year’s ball will raise money for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), to assist with operational costs of the Ronald McDonald Family Room in Mackay, as well as Australian Street Aid Project, a Mackay charity in urgent need of funds to help support people experiencing homelessness.

It is the second year of sponsorship for the Ronald McDonald Family Room in Mackay, with Australian Street Aid replacing HeartKids Mackay, which has dropped out following its two years of tenure.

Australian Street Aid Project (ASAP) was established in 2018 by Mackay nurse Kayleigh Brewster.

She said the organisation had in recent months seen a dramatic increase in presentations of people experiencing homelessness in Mackay.

“Many of these people have one or more unmet medical needs,” Ms Brewster said.

“Homelessness is an isolating and scary experience, and chronic or acute pain contributes to both the difficulty of the journey and the feeling of hopelessness in finding a pathway out.

“This funding will directly impact the lives of many disadvantaged people in our community, and we are delighted to be beneficiaries of this year's Mayors Charity Ball.”

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) North Australia CEO, Tamara South, extended her sincere thanks to Mayor Williamson for council’s continued commitment to local families, who call upon the Charity in their greatest time of need.

“Our heartfelt thanks to Mayor Greg Williamson and Mackay Regional Council for their continued and extraordinary support,’’ she said.

“Funds raised from the generous community of local sponsors and attendees of this year’s event will help to ensure that RMHC North Australia continues to be there to support Mackay regional families when they need it most.”

Channel 7 fishing personality Scotty Hillier returns as Emcee again this year and there will also be the usual gala charity auction.

WHAT: 2023 Mayor’s Charity Ball

WHERE: The MECC

WHEN: Saturday, May 6

TICKETS: themecc.com.au

‍

‍

Mayor Greg Williamson, sporting a Fedora hat, at last week’s launch with representatives of 2023 Mayor’s Ball charity recipients Samantha Lee (right), of Ronald McDonald House, and Kayleigh Brewster, of Mackay’s Australian Street Aid Project

‍

A life is turned upside down by epilepsy every 33 minutes.

The team at Gardian Real Estate felt that impact last year, losing a colleague and friend to the disorder.

“We do a lot for epilepsy to remember him,” said Gardian Corporate Support Officer Kylie Darko.

This March, Gardian have set their directors a series of daring challenges to help raise money and awareness for epilepsy.

“We set certain goals, so the first goal was $250 and then all the directors of Gardian had to do the ice bath challenge,” said Ms Darko.

Gardian enlisted the assistance of Base Performance and Recovery who hosted the event and donated the session, inviting people to take part in a $10 ice bath with all funds going to Gardian’s cause.

Between 50 and 60 people took the plunge, raising $1480 for Epilepsy Queensland, with an extra 40 people coming along to watch and support.

With each milestone reached, directors will be tasked with new challenges including a 5km run dressed as a purple fairy, eating a fertilized duck egg, getting a purple ribbon tattoo and a hot yoga session dressed as a purple wiggle.

Gardian are no strangers to charity, frequently donating to local causes including the Mackay Hospital Foundation, Chances Café and more.

“We give back to the community and are very involved.”

To find out more and to donate, visit myimpact.epilepsyqueensland.com.au/fundraiser/Gardianmakesmarchpurple/gardian-makes-march-purple.

‍

‍

The team at Gardian Real Estate plunged into ice baths last Friday, raising money for Epilepsy Queensland. Photos supplied

‍

Printmaker Marilyn Bliss is exhibiting her prints as part of the Sarina Arts Council exhibition now on show at the Sarina Art Gallery.

Marilyn had always wanted to paint and when she retired nearly 20 years ago, she joined an art group and went to quite a few workshops.  

Marilyn continued painting until about 10 years ago when Brigitte Zimmerman (Brizi) talked her into joining Printbank Mackay and since then she has spent her time printmaking.

Currently she uses copper or aluminium plates.

She now has her own press and last year sent prints to six exhibitions, three in Australia and three overseas.

Marilyn said she enjoys the challenge of creating new images using the age-old technology of printmaking.

In printmaking, plates are used to transfer an image onto another surface, usually paper.  

Tools or chemicals are used to create a design onto the plate which is inked and then applying pressure usually using a printing press to transfer the design onto paper.

Seven artists are displaying their works at the Sarina Art Gallery daily from 10am-3pm until March 24.

Other artists are Gail McKeown, Brigitte Zimmermann, Kerry Williams, Jenny Tibbett, Jodie Perna and Lenore Chapple.

The Sarina Art Gallery is in the Field of Dreams Parkland, with plenty of parking available.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

‍

Friday 24 March

Friday Jazz @ The Con featuring Dan Barnett

Friday, 6:00pm to 7:30pm

CQCM Music Staff present Friday Jazz @ the Con featuring Dr David Reaston (guitar), Dr Peter McKenzie (saxophone), Jason Smyth-Tomkins (drums).

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

Blake O'Connor // Finding Light Tour

Friday, 8:00pm

Guitar Slinger Blake O’Connor is often described as incorporating the outlaw country of Chris Stapleton, Soul of the blues of Tedeschi Trucks Band with the melodic soft rock of John Mayer. Catch him at the Met this Friday.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Saturday 25 March

Free Community Boot Camp

Saturday, 6:00am to 7:00am

Join Muscle Garden for their Free Community Boot Camp at the Mackay Gym. It’s absolutely free! Bring a friend or family member and have some fun. Please arrive 5 minutes early. All non-members welcomed. Bring a towel, water bottle and a smile.

Muscle Garden Health & Fitness Centre

Pocket Sessions - Autumn 2023

Saturday, 3:00pm

Join in for a day and night of live music in the rainforest. Featuring Late November, Will Blume, Stone Faced Heathens, The Wild Sky and Josh Vine and a performance by the amazing Tattyfaze Ablaze.

1195 Calen Mount Charlton Rd, Mount Charlton

Mackay Cutters Round 3

Saturday, 4:00pm to 8:30pm

Get around game day and cheer on the Cutters as they take on Townsville Blackhawks. 10:45am | GATES OPEN. 11:30am | Cyril Connell Challenge. 1:00pm | Mal Meninga Cup. 2:30pm | Harvey Norman U19s. 4:00pm | Hastings Deering Colts (TRIAL). 6:15pm | Hostplus Cup.

BB Print Stadium

Mackay Twilight Market

Saturday, 4:00pm to 8:30pm

Market stalls, mini eat street, local musician, jumping castles and face painting. Come and browse the many 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 for customers convenience. Come and enjoy a night out with your family. It's not just another market, it’s a great family night out!

Mackay Showgrounds

Leaving Jackson - The Johnny Cash & June Carter Show

Saturday, 7:30pm

Relive the moments that captured the life of a legend! A life story played out through some of the greatest songs ever written. Folsom Prison Blues, Jackson, Walk the Line, Boy Name Sue, Ring of Fire, San Quinten, The Man in Black, Big River, Hurt, Get Rhythm, Sunday Morning coming down and much more. A heart-warming and inspiring night of music!

MECC

Sunday 26 March

Lifeline 60th Anniversary

Sunday, 9:15am

Songs, prayers and presentations by the Rev. Dr Julia Pitman and Edie Weiss, long-time volunteer telephone counsellor and suicide prevention trainer. Morning tea to follow – no need to RSVP, please just turn up.

St Paul’s Uniting Church, Macalister Street, Mackay

Sunday Live Music – Mango Junction

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

Tuesday 28 March

Kucom Theatre Annual General Meeting

Tuesday, 7:00pm

The Kucom Annual General Meeting, including election of the 2023 Committee, is scheduled for Tuesday 28 March 2023. This is a public meeting and everyone is welcome to attend.

1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove

Wednesday 29 March

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

Thursday 30 March

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

Community Easter Activation

Thursday, 4:00pm

Join for an afternoon of Easter excitement. Teen Shed Teenagers will be setting up an Easter Activity station that will lead you along the new waterfront. Starting point is near Paxton Markets where you will be given a FIND IT card to stamp off on your Easter Hunt journey. Activities will involve Easter Cookie decorating (made by Jo Jo's Bakehouse), Tattoos, Get active activity, Photo opportunity with the Easter Bunny, Bunny mask and Bunny ear decorating. Once you get to final destination, you will be gifted with Easter Eggs. You can then hang around and have dinner at the markets. This fun family friendly activity, is for anyone to join. We ask a gold coin donation which will go back to Teen Shed to help its growth.

Bluewater Quay

Practice Your Performance

Thursday, 6:00pm

PERFORMERS: Bring your music, instrument, monologue, family and friends to the "Practice Your Performance" night at the con. This is a free opportunity for anyone in the community to prepare a performance and deliver it on the beautifully lit stage. If you require an accompanist, Sarah Rozekrans will be there to help you out! Completely informal and relaxed, these evenings are a great opportunity for you or your music students. All are welcome to participate or to just watch.

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

‍

With the Mackay Festival of Arts once again on the horizon, Kucom Theatre is holding auditions for their Festival Fringe event, Perfect Wedding.

Auditions will be held on Sunday, March 19 from 2:00pm for the Theatre’s July production, a comedy by Robin Hawdon and directed by Kathryn Evans.

Kucom Theatre will be casting for the following roles: Rachel - the bride, 20s; Bill - the groom, 20s; Tom - the best man, 20s; Judy - a girl, 20s; Julie - a chambermaid, 20s; Daphne - the bride's mother, 40s.

The theatre is also seeking a production team that will do the play justice, including a Producer, Stage Manager, Costume Person, Props Person and Sound and Lighting Operator.

Director Ms Evans brings a wealth of experience and an impressive list of credits to the production, meaning anyone who gets to work with her will be in for a treat.

“It doesn’t matter if you’ve never done it before,” Ms Evans said.

“It's great fun, it’s a wonderful way to make new friends.”

Perfect Wedding follows a groom who wakes on his wedding morning in his own bridal suite with his bride-to-be about to arrive any moment.

As he awakes, he finds a strange girl in bed beside him – an extremely attractive girl whom, in the depths of his post stag-night hangover, he can’t remotely remember even having been introduced to.

Then things start to get really complicated.

For those who would like to audition but cannot attend on March 19, an alternative time may be arranged by Ms Evans on 0417 634 834 or by emailing admin@kucom.org.au with the subject line: Auditions “Perfect Wedding”.

Perfect Wedding will be showing at Kucom Theatre from July 6 to 8 and 13 to 15.

Early bird tickets are available from Monday, April 24.

The Kucom Annual General Meeting, including election of the 2023 Committee, is scheduled for Tuesday, March 28.

This is a public meeting and everyone is welcome to attend.

For more information, phone 0439 684 548 or visit Kucom Theatre on Facebook.

WHAT: Perfect Wedding Auditions

WHERE: Kucom Theatre

WHEN: Sunday, March 19 from 2:00pm

‍

Meet The Dancers

Part 1

Mackay Hospital Foundation is well-known for signature events that bring the community together, and Dancing With Heart is no different.

On Friday March 31, eight local identities will take to the dance floor to showcase their individual dance styles in support of local hospitals.

Each dancer has been working with Dolly Louw from Fame Talent School to fine tune their skills on the dance floor, with each dance choreographed especially for the individual performer.

Over the next three weeks, Mackay Life will profile each of the dancers.

Read on to meet the first three.

Michelle Cross – Elders Insurance

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?  

I have a “say yes to scary stuff and then figure it out” policy. Plus, owning a local insurance agency, I have a huge interest in making sure our local community hospitals have everything they need to make patients and medical staff as comfortable as they can be.  In the event that one of my clients is in an emergency and needs medical attention, I love thinking that I’ve done just a little bit towards help for the Hospital Foundation funds, meaning my clients will be cared for while I’m looking after their insurance claim.

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is nothing short of a magician!  She’s got this non-dancer whipping out a routine to a very funky song – I’m telling everyone I know that Dolly from Fame is fantastic.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

Any! Even if there isn’t a dance floor, I’ll make one.

What is your go to dance move?

I wouldn’t call what I do “dance moves” but I just love music and moving my body to it. I have been known to bust out some random Tina Turner moves every now and again after a wine or two.

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?  

I know Dolly will have everyone dancing up a storm so I know there will be some great routines. I just keep reminding myself though that it isn’t about me – It’s about the charity and fundraising for the fantastic work that Mackay Hospital Foundation do.

Alex Finlayson – Harvey Norman

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

Because I had to. Nothing beats my dance moves. I love performing. On a serious note, the thought of being a part of a great cause with local businesses owners and some great everyday Mackay people.

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

It’s been physical. Completely organised chaos. She has made remarks about needing to “loosen my hips” but I think that’s her opinion. She’s energetic and very patient.

How is your dance coming along?

Fantastic. I am starting to believe that the student is becoming the teacher. I’m ready and been practicing every day. My rhythm flows like butter and that’s coming from Dolly herself.

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

I am a sucker for the Nutbush, Macarena and Pony, some of the great classics that’s make you move your feet.

What is your go to dance move?

Believe it or not I’m a great dancer but the go to move for me is drowning boy in the wheel chair, don’t judge.

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

Setting expectations could possibly be the root cause to failure. The expectation is we all enjoy ourselves and put on a great show for everyone.

On a final note, this journey has been brilliant. I have gained so much experience from everyone. The Mackay Hospital Foundation is amazing and what better a cause to be part of. Supporting local and promoting my brand Harvey Norman in Mackay, what else could I ask for.

Bing Guo - Bing’s Nomiya / Hibiki Bar and Karaoke

Why did you get involved in Dancing with Heart?

Because it’s helping people in need and it’s very meaningful.

How have your dance lessons with Dolly been?

Dolly is fantastic! I just need more practice to get better at it.  

What song gets you on the dance floor faster than any other?

Some songs I can understand, like mandopop.

What is your go to dance move?

I am dancing Gangnam style.

What are you expecting from everyone else’s dance moves on the night?

A bit funny or good atmosphere dance also dancing with heart

‍

Make sure to grab next week’s paper for more profiles.

‍

Last week, Mackay's premier event on the International Women's Day calendar was a roaring success, with over 550 women, men, and students coming together to celebrate and learn from each other. The Resource Industry Network (RIN) pulled out all the stops to make this a memorable event that highlighted the progress made towards gender equity and the work that still needs to be done.

Katie Brennan, an AFLW player, inspired the guests with her keynote speech, sharing her wisdom on the three keys to creating successful teams: resilience, belonging, and connection. The panel discussion that followed was just as enlightening, featuring three remarkable women: Courtney Drysdale from Crop Wise - Mackay, Charlotte Nash-Stewart from FIELD Engineers, and Linda Murry from BHP. They shared their views on what equity means to them and how pushing through the discomfort can lead to success.

The event was a perfect mix of education, connection, and fun, thanks to the great food, the amazing emcee Kat Davidson, and Mayor Greg Williamson's inspiring speech on gender equity. The generous support from the major partner sponsors, including BOQ Mackay City, Mackay Regional Council, BHP/BMA Mitsubishi Alliance, and Glencore, and the Student Ticket Sponsor Local Buying Foundation, made it possible to deliver such a remarkable event.

The event was a reminder that while much has been achieved in the fight for gender equality, there is still much to be done. With events like RIN's International Women's Day celebration, we can continue to inspire the next generation and bring long-term change to the issues facing women in the workforce, both regionally and globally.

‍

The Resource Industry Network’s International Women’s Day luncheon was the region’s largest IWD event in 2023. Photos supplied: RIN

‍

Friday 17 March

Mackay Connected Beginnings Super Playgroup

Friday, 9:00am to 11:00am

Talk to organisations and services about building your family strong. Enrol to kindergarten, daycares and prep, register your child’s birth, plus so much more! For more information please contact Fiona Mann Bobongie 0488 550 270 or Latoya Latimer 0421 443 349.

Glenella State School

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Saturday 18 March

Mackay Cutters Round 2

Saturday, 10:00am

Get around game day and cheer on the Cutters as they take on Northern Pride & Tweed Seagulls! 10:00am | GATES OPEN. 10:50am | Cyril Connell Cup. 12:10pm | Mel Meninga Cup. 1:40pm | Harvey Norman U19s. 3:00pm | Hostplus Cup. 5:00pm | BMD Premiership.

BB Print Stadium

Party in The Park

Saturday, 1:00pm

An exclusive opportunity for the Mackay community to view the brand new Great Barrier Reef Arena development at Harrup Park. The event will feature local cricket grand final on the GBRA with fireworks, live music, mini eat street and family fun throughout the day. Kids amusement rides available from 2pm-7pm ($25 unlimited rides) with free balloon twisting & face painting at the event. Gold coin donation on entry.

Harrup Park

Black Hole Film Screening

Saturday, 6:00pm

Join for a special free screening of "Black Hole", a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that sheds light on the destructive impact of Whitehaven Coal on our environment and communities.

Mackay Environment Centre

BME Presents: Queen Bohemian Rhapsody: Greatest Hits Tour

Saturday, 6:30pm

Following a hugely successful sell-out tour, Queen Bohemian Rhapsody are returning with a brand-new show in 2023 performing all of Queen's greatest hits and a few of the most popular songs on their albums 50 years on.

MECC

Alt Takeover

Saturday, 8:30pm

Catch Ancient Remains, Systematic Machine, Arcade Stories and Yellowslip at Alternative Takeover. Tickets are $15 or $20 at the Door.

Empire Alternacade and Events

Sunday 19 March

NQ Babies & Kids Market

Sunday, 8:00am to 12:00pm

Over 50 local businesses on display with all things babies & kids, as well as mum's to be & new mum products. There are lucky door prizes to be won throughout the market, Jumping Castles, Face Painting, Free Bounty Bags. Don't forget you can get your coffee fresh & hot at the event, to have while you're shopping. Come & join the amazing market morning to see all the amazing local small businesses all under the one roof!

Mackay Showgrounds

Sunday Live Music – Viva Acoustic Live

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

Perfect Wedding Auditions

Sunday, 3:00pm

The one-act play season has come to an end and now it’s time for Kucom Theatre to get their next show on the road. Kucom Theatre will be holding auditions for “Perfect Wedding”, a comedy by Robin Hawdon, directed by Kathryn Evans. “Perfect Wedding” is a Mackay Festival of Arts Fringe event. Season dates: 6, 7, 8, 13, 14 & 15 July 2023. Whether you would like to audition, or would prefer to be part of the production team in an offstage role, they’d love to hear from you!

Kucom Theatre

Monday 20 March

LIVINWell Community Mental Health Program

Monday, 10:00am

In partnership with Teen Shed Mackay Inc, LIVIN presents LIVINWell, a mental health education workshop for the community. LIVINWell is a 45-minute mental health educational program building on LIVIN’s mantra that “It Ain’t Weak to Speak”. The program aims to break the stigma of mental health, enhance self-efficacy (both helping yourself and helping others) and encourage help-seeking. This is open to all community members over 14+.

BCC Cinemas Mackay

Tuesday 21 March

BMA Kidspace

Tuesday, 10:00am

Join local artists and performers for creative art activities designed for toddlers and their adults. One Tuesday a month. Drop-in anytime between 10am and 2pm (live children's music from 11.30am to 12.15pm). 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 co-operative 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

Wednesday 22 March

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

Cirque Mother Africa

Wednesday, 7:30pm

Celebrating 15 years and direct from a sell-out Broadway season, Cirque Mother Africa is returning to Australia in 2023 with an all-new show featuring the amazing hand to hand balancing act as seen on Australia’s Got Talent performed by the Ramadhani Brothers.

MECC

Thursday 23 March

Chair Yoga in North Mackay

Every Thursday, 2:30pm

Using a chair for support (either sitting or standing) Chair Yoga is a practice of gentle movement, combined with mindful breathing and meditation. It's an excellent choice for anyone who wants to focus on a gentle, nurturing practice. Chair Yoga can improve your balance, flexibility, concentration and strength, while boosting your mood and reducing stress and joint strain. Bookings are essential. Call or text your full name to 0434 940 300 or message the Wellness With Deb Facebook page.

Palmview Village Community Centre, via Oasis Drive / Bradford St

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

‍

‍

Mackay Cutters

Bohemian Rhapsody

Arcade Stories

LIVINWell Community Mental Health Program

BMA Kidspace

Cirque Mother Africa

‍

A Mackay skate shop teamed up with local musicians and skaters to throw a skate jam at the Sugar Bowl last Friday.

Skaters ripped the skatepark to a live soundtrack of punk music courtesy of local legends Inside Lane, Yellowslip and Subservia.

Red Lotus Company threw the event as a fundraiser serving up a barbecue, selling merch and raffling off goodies.

Red Lotus owner Brenton Hawkins said he hopes to facilitate many more events in the future to bring the community together to appreciate skateboarding and local music.

‍

Friday 10 March

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm
Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVEMUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Eyeopener Toastmasters Visitor Day

Friday, 6:45am to 8:00pm
Come along to Eyeopener Toastmasters Visitor Day and see how the Toastmaster program can build your confidence as a communicator.

St Paul’s Uniting Church Meeting Room

‍

Zoey & Leyon Live atLangford’s

Friday, 7:00pm
Catch Zoey Mills and Leyon Milner live at Langford’s Hotel

Langford’s Hotel

DittmanBull Pit Country Fest

Friday and Saturday
The Dittmann Bull Pit and NQ Licensed Events, together with ChuggEntertainment, Frontier Touring and CMC Rocks QLD are bringing a world classcountry music event to Bloomsbury, North Queensland unlike anything the regionhas ever seen before. This 2-day event will be headlined by multi-platinumsinger-songwriter Kip Moore.

145 Midge Point Rd, Bloomsbury

Saturday 11 March

Queensland Ballet | A MidsummerNight's Dream
Saturday,7:30pm
A Midsummer Night's Dream has captured the hearts of many, young and old, in the centuries since it was written. Brimming with mischief and mayhem, Shakespeare's fantastical masterpiece interweaves the magical realm of fairies and woodland creatures with the mortal world of unrequited lovers. This enchanting Shakespearean comedy is beautifully enhanced by Tracy Grant Lord’s shimmering sets and Kendall Smith’s ambient lighting designs. Liam Scarlett’s witty choreography brings the woodlands and vivid characters to life, to the sublime score by Felix Mendelssohn. Don’t miss one of Scarlett’s most exceptional productions as Queensland Ballet tours to Mackay.

MECC

Saturdays Live Music At Empire –Ronny Croker
Saturday,9:00pm
For the Month of February and a half of March the Main Barwill be hosting soloists - come and enjoy the immaculate vibes, drinks, musicand company.

Empire Alternacade and Events

SugarCity Burnouts
Saturday,from 10am
Gates Open – 10.00am

Pad Open – 2pm –8.00pm

Entrant – $80

Spectator/Crew passes– $20 each

Palmyra Dragway

Sunday 12 March

Sunday Live Music – Ruby Sue
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

The Feels Live at Oceans Bar & Restaurant
Sunday,3:00pm to 7:00pm
Join the Feels for a Sunday session by or in the pool at Ocean Bar & Restaurant and soak up the awesome vibes. Bookings are essential, so please call 4957 2044 to secure your spot. Finish your weekend at Oceans.

Ocean International

Monday 13 March

The Women's Circle - 'Photo Phobia'
Monday,8:30am to 10:30am
Join Deidre Schill in a powerful conversation around being in photos and the negative conversations you have with yourself. In this circle, you will talk about how this impacts on how you are turning up in the photos, how it impacts on everyone else and what it is teaching your children. The Women's Circle is a FREE monthly catch-up to support, nurture and understand the difficulties women face and figure things out together, even if listening is all you need. Grab yourself a drink from the talented crew at Primal Coffee, and step into the circle of trust to share stories, breathe into a meditation and share the burden.

Primal Coffee Roasters

Trivia Night
Monday,6:30pm to 8:30pm
Trivia night on Mondays at Centro Restaurant. There's noexcuse not to stretch the grey matter as it's free to play so come along withyour mates or you can be put in a team, each team can have 2-7 players.Registrations from 6:30pm, starts 7pm. Book your table to avoid disappointmentcall 49 656 100.

Magpies Sporting Club Mackay

Tuesday 14 March

Musical Bingo Tuesdays
Tuesday,6:30pm to 8:30pm
There’s only one thing better than bingo, and that’s Musical Bingo. Every Tuesday join Seabreeze in the Bar from 7pm where you can show off your musical knowledge in Musical Bingo! Prizes will be on offer for our winners each and every week so make sure you’re on the ball as they drop the beats! Entry is FREE! Registration opens from 6pm, with all the action kicking off from 7pm. So music buff or not, make sure you clear your schedule each Tuesday evening for Musical Bingo at the Seabreeze Hotel. To book your table for Musical Bingo call the team on (07) 4955 1644.

Seabreeze Hotel

Wednesday 15 March

Employer Workshop: Employing People with Disability
Wednesday,1:30pm to 3:00pm

Join Feros Care at their employer workshop and see how easy it is to employ people with disability. Find the right person for the job, the first time and build an inclusive workplace.

Feros Care will show you how to tap into a market where employers can: access valuable employees who are reliable, skilled and have a great attitude and desire to work; build an inclusive and diverse workplace; make the most of their recruitment and advertising opportunities; and make use of available financial supports. Don’t miss out as places are filling fast. This event is also online.

Feros Care 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 SpecialAssistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market
EveryWednesday, 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

‍
Thursday 16 March

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

‍

‍

Hitch your wagon to a star and mark your calendar for the Friends of the MECC's Morning Melodies as ‘Blue Bayou’ graces the MECC stage on Friday 24 March.

Written and performed by Nadia Sunde, the cabaret singer and her band will deliver a nostalgic setlist that will transport audiences back to the golden age of country-pop music. The recipient of multiple national and international awards for her songwriting and performance, Nadia is no stranger to the country genre.

“Mum bought me the Readers Digest Country & Western songbook when I was a kid because I just couldn't get enough country from the radio,” Sunde says.

Evoking the nostalgia of the country pop music genre, Mackay locals are in for a morning of delightful entertainment, featuring down-home warmth, charm, and masterful storytelling.

“It was all Jerry Reed, Willie Nelson, John Denver, Dolly Parton and the rest of the gang for this little girl. They were my heroes and their storytelling built something in me,” Sunde continued.

The songstress is thrilled to take the Mackay audience on an unforgettable musical journey, showcasing the works of renowned country artists.

“Blue Bayou’ has felt a bit like a homecoming. It's beautiful to bring these songs to audiences across the state who feel the same way.”  

Ticket holders will be treated to complimentary tea, coffee, and biscuits before the performance, and will have the opportunity to win exciting lucky door prizes from Guardian Pharmacy Walkerston and Whitsunday Biscuit Factory. With tickets starting at just $15 each, The Friends at the MECC’s Morning Melodies is an affordable and enjoyable day out for Mackay locals.

What: Friends of the MECC’s Morning Melodies Blue Bayou

When: Friday 24 March 2023, 11am

Where: MECC Plenary Halls

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

‍

Blue Bayou is set to charm Mackay audiences this month

Woodturning is an age-old craft that has been around for centuries. It involves shaping wood into various shapes and sizes using a lathe and other hand tools. From bowls and platters to pens and kitchen utensils, woodturning can create beautiful and functional items that can last a lifetime.

One of the greatest benefits of woodturning is the ability to create unique, one-of-a-kind gifts. These handmade items carry a special sentimental value and can be cherished for years to come. Unlike mass-produced items, each piece of woodturning is unique, with its own character and flaws, adding to its charm and beauty.

Not only do wooden gifts make great sentimental gifts, but they also offer a number of practical benefits. Wood is a renewable resource and can be sustainably sourced, making it an eco-friendly choice. It is also durable and long-lasting, making it a practical choice for items such as cutting boards, utensils, and bowls. Wooden items can also be treated with natural oils and waxes, making them safe for food use and easy to maintain.

Whether you are looking for a thoughtful and sentimental gift or a practical item for your own home, woodturning is a great choice. Check out the range of wooden items for sale and see woodturning in action at the Mackay Woodturners Association’s Easter event. Admission is free of charge.

What: Mackay Woodturners Assn Easter Event

When: 18 and 19 March, 9am-3pm daily

Where: Snow Wright Court

Cost: Free admission

‍

A magnificent wooden truck by Dave would delight any child and will be at the Mackay Woodturners Assn Easter Show

A red gum bowl created by Ray

Friday 3 March

Free Public Art Walk

Friday, 4:30pm

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. Whether you’re an artist, art lover, local or visitor to our lovely riverside city, you’ll find this late afternoon public art walk a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Bring friends, family members, or come by yourself - wear a hat, comfortable shoes, bring a bottle of water, and arrive promptly to Artspace Mackay as the group will depart on time.

Artspace Mackay

Mackay Airport Twilight City Run

Friday, arrive from 5:15pm, run at 6:00pm

Join the Mackay Airport Twilight City Run 5km FUN run. Walk, stroll, push a pram, jog, run. A Fundraiser for the Leukaemia Foundation

Blue Water Quay

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Latin Street Party

Friday, 6:00pm to 10:00pm

Viva La Vida! Join Mackay's Latin Street Party. There will be dancing, music and fun for all. Book at table at Coco Cubano Mackay and enjoy their full range of Classic Cuban Cocktails!

Coco Cubano Mackay

Robertson Brothers 60's Variety TV Show

Friday, 7:30pm

Following their sold-out national tour in 2022, Australia's new 'Kings of Variety Television' are back in 2023 with a brand-new show! The Robertson Brothers are thrilled to be returning with their new heart-warming and uplifting 1960’s Variety TV Show!

MECC

FLiCKERFEST 2023 Tour

Friday, 7:30pm

Celebrating its 32nd year, Flickerfest, Australia’s only Academy® Award and BAFTA qualifying short film festival, and the country’s largest Australian & International short film competition, screens the best of shorts from Australia and the world, selected from 3,200 entries; ensuring the presentation of A-list short film programmes recognised amongst the best in the world.

Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

Saturday 4 March

Drag Bingo

Sunday, 6:00pm to 9:30pm

Hold onto your hats Mackay: Miss Lady Saint Diva returns this March, bringing her wild drag show to you, with all the calls you can't say at other shows. Along for the ride is Brisbane Queen, Gayleen Tuckwood. Get ready for a night you will never forget. Doors open at 6pm, Show starts at 7pm. Ticket includes entry, drag performances, comedy and free bingo. Tickets are limited.

The Metropolitan Hotel Mackay

Sunday 5 March

Mackay Cars & Culture

Sunday, 8:00am to 11:00am

Welcome back to another edition of Cars & Culture Mackay at PCYC Mackay. The day will be fun-filled and packed with excitement. Diverse line up of cars and bikes (Super Cars, Custom Cars, JDM's, Classics, 4x4's), all are welcome, Wrap Wise - Wrap Reveal, food and coffee vendors, merch and promotional giveaways. As always, this is a family friendly event and everyone is welcome, including the cute and furry pet friends.

PCYC Mackay

Sunday Live Music – Blues By The Beach

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Enjoy an afternoon of relaxed vibes and good bluesy tunes by the beach with The Wild Sky Band and Eales Road.

Seabreeze Hotel

All Fired Up! An 80s Mixed Tape Musical

Sunday, 7:30pm

Meet Tammy Tooth who’s on the brink of a most epic existential midlife crisis. An unexpected quirk of fate sends her back in time to come face to face with her 15 year old self in her teenage bedroom. This gives her the chance to ask the big questions, remind her what made her tick and reclaim her passion for life. Join Tammy in the front seat of the Delorean, crank up the radio and take on a few life lessons from your favourite radio presenter, DJ Neon. Dig out your Choose Life shirt, your double cassette player and press record on the banging live band rocking the soundtrack of our youth. Solve the problems of your world; one 80's song at a time.

MECC

Wednesday 8 March

Better Together Housing Get Together

Wednesday, 10:00am to 11:30am

Whether you are renting, or you own your own home, Better Together Housing is about exploring shared housing in a safe way, at your own pace and without expectations. Not sure sharing is for you? That's ok. Better Together Housing is just as much about connecting women as it is about housing options. Get together over a cuppa for a chat and to connect with other women. Please contact Lauren before heading along so that you can hear more about the project. 0419 179 495 or mackay@bettertogetherhousing.com.au. Visit the website here: www.bettertogetherhousing.com.au.

Dudley Denny Library

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

Thursday 9 March

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

‍

Mackay Musical Comedy Players Inc. presents The Addams Family, live in Mackay in May.

MMCP, who brought you the smash hits Mamma Mia, Shrek and Chicago – presents the original story of The Addams Family, and it's every father's nightmare.

Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet young man from a respectable family. If that weren't upsetting enough, Wednesday begs her father not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he's never done before -- keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia.

Everything will change on the fateful night the family hosts a dinner for Wednesday's 'normal' boyfriend and his parents.

What will the Addams family do?

What: MMCP Presents the Addams Family

When: Friday 19 May & Saturday 20 May (3 performances)

Where: The MECC

Tickets https://bit.ly/3IjJRlk

‍

Celebrating 32 years in 2023, Flickerfest continues to present short film programmes jam-packed with films hand-picked from the festival’s record 3,200 entries.

Australia’s largest Short Film Festival returns to the Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music tonight on its National Tour, showcasing the Best of Australian Shorts programme highlights from the recent Bondi festival competition.

The Best of Australian Shorts programme, screening on Friday, March 3, shines a spotlight on the incredible short film talent that exists in our emerging Australian industry, with a host of Australian stories honouring our unique identity and culture.

Don't miss the delightful, quirky comedy ‘The Fritz’, where a confused man, Trevor Jamieson (Storm Boy) is forced to confront his big family at an overwhelming birthday event after being hit by a meteor; or the colourful and insightful Torres Strait cultural drama ‘Katele’ (Mudskipper), about a woman longing for home, awarded Best Australian Short Film at Flickerfest 2023.

Also featuring is ‘Lean’ a contemporary father/son drama starring Nicholas Hope (Bad Boy Bubby, Picnic at Hanging Rock, Scooby Doo, The Drover's Wife) and Harry Greenwood (The Nightingale, Hacksaw Ridge, Wakefield, Gallipoli), who’s relationship becomes undone after the father’s political corruption threatens to drag them both under.

Plus, there’ll be laughs-a-plenty as ‘Married at First Fleet’ follows a modern-day 18th century couple in the Australian colony who are matched according to common interests, attractiveness and lack of diseases.

Other highlights include the delightful comedy from Brisbane director Lachlan Pendragon ‘An Ostrich Told Me The World Is Fake And I Think I Believe It’, recently nominated for Best Short Animation at the Academy Awards.

Flickerfest celebrates Australian stories and talent on the big screen and introduces these incredible new storytellers to regional audiences, so come along and enjoy a festive atmosphere with friends and family.

WHAT: Flickerfest 2023 - Best of Australian Shorts

WHERE: Central Queensland Conservatorium Of Music

WHEN: Friday, March 3, doors from 6:30pm

TICKETS: $15 / $10 for members from www.flickerfest.com.au/tour/mackay

‍

What better way to spend a drizzly Tuesday than in the art gallery, creating art, singing and dancing?

That’s what dozens of children and their parents did last week, as Artspace Mackay hosted their first BMA Kidspace program of 2023.

The ever-popular toddlers’ program gives children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of cooperative learning.

The day consists of two free artist-run sessions and live musical entertainment for kids, last week provided by the talented and engaging Kathleen Campbell.

BMA Kidspace will return to Artspace Mackay on Tuesday, March 21 from 10:00am to 2:00pm.

‍

‍

Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

‍

Queensland Ballet is set to return to the MECC for the first time in four years, treating Mackay locals to Liam Scarlett’s whimsical interpretation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

After it charmed Brisbane audiences in 2016, the company will bring this timeless classic to the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre, presenting a one-night-only performance on 11 March.

Queensland Ballet’s Artistic Director Li Cunxin AO said the company’s regional touring program is often a highlight of the year.

“We are incredibly grateful to tour across Queensland annually and to have the opportunity to share world-class productions on the smaller stages across the state,” Mr Li said.

"There is an amazing appreciation for our artform in the regions and we are always welcomed with open arms when visiting communities such as Mackay.”

A Midsummer Night's Dream has captured the hearts of many, young and old, in the centuries since it was written. Brimming with mischief and mayhem, Shakespeare's fantastical masterpiece interweaves the magical realm of fairies and woodland creatures with the mortal world of unrequited lovers.

“Scarlett’s rendition of Shakespeare’s fantastical masterpiece is beautifully choreographed and visually stunning, interweaving the magical and mortal realms with sublime sets, costumes, and music,” Mr Li said.

As part of the Regional Tour program, the public will also get to take ballet for a spin. Dancers from two years of age through to active seniors are invited to participate in Queensland Ballet’s Community Classes, In-School Workshops and Teacher PD Sessions where participants will be mentored by Queensland Ballet’s highly skilled teaching artists.

“For budding dancers or those new to ballet, these classes are a fantastic opportunity to experience the spellbinding magic of ballet. We hope all participants experience something special from working with our community team and hopefully the classes will inspire a new generation of dancers. Enabled by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland, Queensland Ballet tours annually, delivering an acclaimed repertoire of work on-stage.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of Arts Queensland, whose unwavering support enables us to continue our regional touring initiatives.”

What: Queensland Ballet: A Midsummer Night’s Dream

When: Saturday 11 March 2023, 7.30pm

Where: Auditorium

Tickets: www.themecc.com.au

‍

The Mackay Regional Council has announced the completion of the coastal walk milestone in the Seaforth Esplanade redevelopment project. This milestone marks a significant step forward in the project's progress, bringing new footpaths, boardwalks, and beach accesses to the esplanade. The public can now enjoy strolling, running, or cycling along the newly constructed pathway.

The redevelopment project aims to revamp the Seaforth Esplanade and make it a more attractive and enjoyable destination for locals and tourists alike. The construction of a splash pad is next in line, followed by the installation of sun lounges, barbecues, and new play equipment.

According to the Council's project timeline, the entire redevelopment project is set to be completed by September 2023, weather permitting. Once completed, the public can look forward to enjoying all the new amenities and attractions that the esplanade has to offer.

Residents and visitors interested in staying up-to-date with the project's latest news and updates can subscribe to project update emails at www.connectingmackay.com.au/seaforth-esplanade.

‍

FOODSPACE HAS A NEW BLUEPRINT FOR UP-AND-COMING ARTISTS

Lovers of coffee and delicious food have yet another reason to visit Foodspace Café.

A new public art exhibition program, titled Blueprint, is launching at the café to showcase young and emerging talent from our region.

Artspace Mackay director Tracey Heathwood said not only would the exhibition provide the young artists with excellent exposure in a high foot traffic area, there was also a sizeable exhibition payment on offer.

“The selected artists will be paid $1000 to allow us to exhibit five of their works for a three-month period,” Ms Heathwood said.

“Every quarter we will feature a new artist, with artists chosen based on their response to the criteria and theme,” she said.

“We are looking for original and creative responses to the theme “blueprint” that take inspiration from something original, based in science or just inspired by the colour blue.

A blueprint refers to something original or a prototype.

Works can be created through any medium but must be uploaded digitally. Applications for the next three-month exhibition period close March 23, 2023.

Submissions must include five A1-sized digital prints of original work by the artist that were completed in the 24 months prior to the entry closing date.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the Artspace Mackay team was doing some amazing work fostering emerging artistic talent in our region.

“Blueprint is another tremendous initiative that will promote and showcase a diverse range of young and emerging visual artists from the Mackay region,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Through this and various other Artspace Mackay programs and bursaries, artists have a lot of exciting opportunities to boost their careers on a local level,” he said.

The full application criteria and an online submission form can be found at artspacemackay.com.au/blueprint

On show now: Menagerie of the Criminally Insane by Muddy Grimes (Matthew Izard)

Muddy Grimes is a tattoo artist who moved to Mackay in 2012. He started his creative journey plastering paste-ups in the Gold Coast. Menagerie of the Criminally Insane feature Grimes’ fantastical and vibrant animal characters, which can also be seen in in Mackay’s award-winning 5th Lane, Mackay City Centre.

In the exhibition, Grimes showcases a small part of the original sketch he used to build upon while also showing the end results. The sketch being the “blueprint”. Each piece is torn to give a peek at what the original intention was while showcasing the final product.

‍