Lisa Hunt's Forever Soul

An immense talent is set to perform at the Airlie Beach Hotel. Internationally renowned American singer Lisa Hunt leads with an impressive resume, designed to leave any music fan amazed. Initally beginning as a gospel singer, Lisa Hunt has sold more than a million albums as both a singer and songwriter, having performed across the globe for many decades.

She has performed along the likes of Australian legends Jimmy Barnes, Diesel, Midnight Oil as well international superstars Eric Clapton, James Brown, Dionne Warwick, Brian May, Randy Crawford, Joe Cocker, Miles Davis and Andrea Bocelli.

With an extensive history of performing alongside some of the world's greatest artists, the Airlie Beach Hotel is absolutely thrilled to have her onboard to perform a series of FREE shows on January 17th and 18th from 2pm onwards.

Get on down to the Airlie Beach Hotel for some spellbinding sets of tightly crafted, well performed eclectic music by Australia's leading soul singer. There will be old school gospel, RnB Blues, Motown and much more.  Her powerful magnetic voice will provide the perfect ambience for a beautiful Whitsundays evening. Prepare for style, talent and lots of fun.

This is not a show you will want to miss.

WHAT: Forever Soul - Lisa Hunt, FREE Show
WHEN: Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th of January, 2pm Onwards
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel

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Photo sourced

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January
10 Pets Domain Bowen Monthly Market, Pets Domain Bowen, 8am - 1pm

10 & 11 Queen Rhapsody, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

14 Community Disaster Information Session, Murroona Gardens Wellness Centre, 10am - 11am

17 & 18 Lisa Hunt - Forever Soul, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

22 Six the Musical Live, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 2pm - 3:45pm

24 North Queensland Cowboys V Mackay Cutters, Whitsunday Sports Park, 6:30am - 8:30am

24 & 25 Gold Chisel & The Australian Midnight Oil Show ft. Swanee, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

24 The Corsairs Name Day featuring YUSSI, Boatys Airlie Beach, from 9pm

26 Aussie Day at the Club, Club Whitsunday, 11am - 2pm

26 Australia Day at the Grand View, Grand View Hotel, 11am - 8pm

26 Australia Day Fun Family Day, Queens Beach Hotel, from 12pm

26 Australia Day at the Met, Hotel Metropole Proserpine, from 12pm

26 The Wizards of OZ Australia Day, Airlie Beach Hotel, 12pm - 6pm

31 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

February
1 Hendrix & Heroes, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

7 Galentine's Day, Queens Beach Hotel, 12pm - 4pm

7 Bustamento Intrepid Adventure Tour, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

8 One Love - The Music of Bob Marley and The Wailers, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

9 Super Bowl at The Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel, from 9am

14 & 15 Whole Lotta Rosie, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

19 The Amity Affliction National Tour, Magnums Hotel, from 7pm

28 Bon Jovi Forever, Airlie Beach Hotel, 2pm - 5:30pm

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Friday 9 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Nate Marks (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)

Saturday 10 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Queen Rhapsody (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dave Johan (4pm - 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: DJ (1pm - 5pm)

Sunday 11 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Queen Rhapsody (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Noah Davis (1pm - 5pm)
Grand View Hotel: Matthew Vaughan (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Monday 12 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 7.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Pianoman (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Tuesday 13 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Wednesday 14 January
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Thursday 15 January
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

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IMPULSE is set to light up Magnums with after-dark cabaret this New Year season.

Airlie Beach is in for a bold New Year treat as IMPULSE brings a high-energy cabaret experience to Magnums Hotel, transforming the popular venue into a fully seated theatre for a limited run of shows.

From the team that brought you NOSTALGIA, the eight-strong cast members have been rehearsing for the last six months to present this new and exciting cabaret show.

With an atmosphere inspired by late-night glamour and burlesque flair, IMPULSE promises a fast-paced evening of powerhouse performance, seductive choreography, and crowd-pleasing entertainment designed for an adult audience looking for something different after dark.

IMPULSE is going to be fast-paced, filled with back-to-back cabaret, burlesque and crowd moments, so the audience is constantly getting something new.

Hosted at Magnums IMPULSE offers a fully indoor, seated theatre-style event offering air-conditioned comfort, front-row VIP tables with grazing boxes, and a private bar open throughout the show, designed for relaxed viewing, easy drinks, and a premium guest experience.

The show runs for three nights only on December 30, January 1 and January 2, with doors opening ahead of the 7.30pm start time. With seating limited each night, organisers encourage locals and visitors to secure tickets online to avoid missing out.

IMPULSE will be staged at Magnums Hotel, Airlie Beach. Tickets are available now via the event’s online booking link.

https://www.universe.com/events/impulse-cabaret-show-tickets-1PTY0J

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Wednesday 24 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Friday 26 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Simon Briley (4pm - 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Saturday 27 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 7.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: DJ Sugarlips (1pm - 5pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Sunday 28 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 7.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Pianoman (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Simon Briley (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Monday 29 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Robbie Williams Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

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December

24 Members Christmas Eve Drinks, Club Whitsunday, 2pm - 5pm

25 Christmas Day

26 Boxing Day

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

31 New Year’s Eve

February

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

March

22 The UK Rod Stewart Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

May

1 SPOT, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm - 12.50pm

13 Luke Kidgell - Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9pm

31 Creedence Clearwater Collective, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

June

26 Echoes of Pink Floyd - 60 Years of Pink Floyd, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 8pm - 10.45pm

July

25 - 26 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

August

7 Room on the Broom, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 1pm - 1.55pm

9 A Taste of Ireland, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 4pm - 6pm

September

11 - 12 White on Whitsunday Long Lunch, Whitehaven Beach, from 8am

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With the New Year fast approaching, Airlie Beach Hotel is gearing up to deliver a night you won’t forget. Prepare to dance, laugh, and celebrate your way into the new year with an unforgettable performance packed with music, lights, and dazzling showmanship. Brace yourself for a fully choreographed high-end theatrical show with costumes, displays and visual mania.

The New Year’s Eve celebration will be an exhilarating event split into four distinct parts, each dedicated to a different era or theme:

Part 1: The 70s (7:00 pm – 7:50 pm)
The night will kick off with an explosive set from Big City Beat, an 11-piece party ensemble known for their energetic performances and stunning costumes. Expect to be transported back to the 70s with classic hits brought to life through sizzling choreography and a captivating brass section.

Part 2: The 80s (8:20 pm – 9:10 pm)
Big City Beat will continue the journey through time with a vibrant 80s set, featuring all the unforgettable anthems from this iconic decade. Their dynamic show combines music, visuals, and choreography to keep you dancing all night.

Part 3: The 90s (9:40 pm – 10:30 pm)
Next, the band will take you through the 90s with another high-energy performance packed with party favourites. With a fully choreographed theatrical show enhanced by lights and visual effects, this set promises something for everyone.

Part 4: The Australian Bruno Mars Show (11pm - MIDNIGHT)
As the countdown to midnight begins, get ready for the electrifying Australian Bruno Mars Show. This act goes beyond just Bruno Mars’ biggest hits, paying tribute to the legendary artists who inspired him - including Michael Jackson, Prince, Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, James Brown, and Justin Timberlake. Experience a spectacular fusion of funk, soul, pop, and R&B as you welcome the new year in style.

With so much talent, joy, and brilliance on display, Airlie Beach Hotel promises a New Year’s Eve celebration you simply can’t miss.

WHAT: New Year's Eve Show
WHEN: December 31st, 7pm - MIDNIGHT
WHERE: The Airlie Beach Hotel

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On Saturday, December 13th, Kas Rae launched her debut children’s book, Broncy Dingle Dandy And His Best Mate Mandy, at Proserpine Library. The book was created in collaboration with illustrator Hiruni Kariyasawa.

As a primary school teacher, Kas is incredibly passionate about spreading the joy of creativity amongst her students. “I really enjoy a book with a beautiful message”, said Kas. The book was inspired by her family dog, Broncy.

The title was based on a particular jingle that involved the phrase broncy dingle dandy, serving as the impetus for the book’s development.

Kas loved reading the book to her students both during its development and after its completion, reminiscing on the joy felt when the students retained many of the rhymes and phrases.

The book saw a fruitful collaboration with talented illustrator Hiruni, as rough sketches and ideas by Kas developed into the beautiful art now featured in the book.

The story encourages positive self-talk and resilience. “The whole book is about Broncy not giving up…the underlying theme is asking for help from friends,” explained Kas.

Overall, the book’s development stems from a deep passion for encouraging creativity amongst the youth, especially in regional areas like ours.

“Growing up here, I didn’t even think [creativity] was an option on the menu…it’s come to be that I can do this, but I’m really passionate about letting kids know that they can do this…you can create a story, you can do it.”

By extension, Kas believes creativity is important to promote in education. The hand-drawn aesthetic in the book was crafted to directly contrast with clean AI images that children are often exposed to, teaching them that handmade craft is something that should hold great value.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received, I feel really lucky.”

The release of Broncy Dingle Dandy And His Best Mate Mandy signifies a growth in creative spirit for the Whitsundays region and it is available now including the Bowen Visitor Information Centre.

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Photo supplied

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Friday 19 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Simon Briley (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Pheonix Revival (from 8pm)

Saturday 20 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Australian Eagles (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Ahri (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

Sunday 21 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Australian Eagles (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Scotty Wilson (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Simon Briley (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Noah Davis (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Monday 22 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Tuesday 23 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Wednesday 24 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

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December

19 74 Islands Christmas Cocktail Club, Elmenta Whitsundays, from 5pm

19 The Grinch, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

20 Proserpine Farmers Christmas Market, 10 Edward St, 8am - 12pm

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

24 Members Christmas Eve Drinks, Club Whitsunday, 2pm - 5pm

25 Christmas Day

26 Boxing Day

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

31 New Year’s Eve

February

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

March

22 The UK Rod Stewart Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

May

1 SPOT, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm - 12.50pm

13 Luke Kidgell - Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9pm

31 Creedence Clearwater Collective, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

June

26 Echoes of Pink Floyd - 60 Years of Pink Floyd, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 8pm - 10.45pm

July

25 - 26 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

August

7 Room on the Broom, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 1pm - 1.55pm

9 A Taste of Ireland, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 4pm - 6pm

September

11 - 12 White on Whitsunday Long Lunch, Whitehaven Beach, from 8am

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Many would shy away from such a description; however, popular music act Geed Up have embraced the idea that they can put on the ‘Worst Show Ever’.

Having performed for over 20 years, Geed Up bring a vibrant, pulsating energy to every individual performance. The Brisbane act is renowned for its vocal versatility, polished harmonies and dynamically impressive fusion of soul, funk, edge and class, blending old and new music with energetic breakdancing and airtight acrobatic choreography.

The frenetic stage act combines acrobatics, dancing, acapella and comedy to put on an incredibly unique show. The energy requires extensive individual training to maintain the demanding physicality of the presentation and the group is composed of different and varied talents, including a contortionist!

Geed Up have performed over 30 shows at Airlie Beach Hotel, with this performance representing their 4th New Year’s feature. Building on their extensive experience, Geed Up promises a spectacular series of gigs.

“We have new tricks up our sleeve”, said band member Khan. The group promises “maximum entertainment in the shortest amount of time”. With covers from the 80s, 90s and early 2000s, the performance provides an extraordinary range of music that many can enjoy. The show will be family-friendly, providing something for everyone.

The band have also proudly partnered with Beyond Blue, helping to raise mental health awareness through fundraising.

The dates come at an exciting time of year, with one show on the afternoon of New Years Eve to warm up for the big night, and one show on January 1st to celebrate the first day of 2026.

Get down to Airlie Beach for laughs, thrills and high energy. There are plenty of surprises prepared. This is not a performance you will want to miss!

WHAT: Geed Up’s ‘Worst Show Ever’
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Tuesday 30th, Wednesday 31 December & Thursday 1st January

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As a prolific performer, Robbie Williams impersonator Louie Fee Feldrin is no stranger to the Airlie Beach Hotel. With a strong and varied musical background in both theatre and rock bands, Louie initially knew little of Robbie Williams; however, with the growing popularity of the British pop superstar, many noticed a peculiar likeness.

Opportunity struck with Channel Nine Show ‘Starstruck’, which saw contestants assume the role of stars they were deemed most alike. This experience allowed Louie to fully embrace his knack for replicating Robbie, and since then, he has performed extensively as ‘The Robbie Williams Experience’. Whether it's major hotels, corporate events or high profile celebrity shows, the tribute acts' extensive touring experience should get many excited for a hotly anticipated return to the Airlie Beach Hotel.

The upcoming dates promise surprises and an exciting collaboration with ‘Kylie’ impersonator Rachel Rischin. Louie and Rachel have been performing together for some time as the 'Robbie/Kylie' duo and show no signs of slowing down with this next set of shows.

"We have a new choreographer", said Louie. The new shows will focus more choreography and lighting in conjunction with Kylie Minogue’s famously flamboyant presentation. The shows will feature music from both new and old eras, performing iconic 90s hits and freshly released Spotify singles.

“I’m looking forward to it”, said Louie. The show will be open to all ages so everyone is welcome to come for a series of electric performances to ignite the holiday season. "Robbie has been including surprises in his own show, so we would like to do that as well." The Airlie Beach Hotel anticipates a great series of shows, allowing longtime fans to be transported to the worlds of Robbie Williams and Kylie Minogue.

WHAT: The Robbie Williams Experience
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: December 27th, 28th, 29th (2pm-5:30pm)

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At the Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair this Friday the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry are delivering a fun Best Dressed Window Display competition.

Every business is encouraged to participate and create an eye-catching display that captures the spirit of Christmas and celebrates Proserpine’s unique character.

Store displays will be judged by The Hon. Amanda Camm MP and Mayor Ry Collins during the Fair, which runs from 5pm to 8pm on Friday, 12 December on Main Street in Proserpine.

The major prize includes a Chamber–Whitsunday Life promotional package, featuring a half-page advertisement and editorial in this newspaper, a 500-word business profile shared across the Chamber communication channels, and a Chamber subscription for winners who are not current members.

The Two runners-up will each receive a package comprising a quarter-page advertisement and editorial in this newspaper, a 250-word business profile shared across the Chamber communication channels, and a Chamber subscription if not already a member.

Chamber President Allan Milostic said “The Chamber is excited to celebrate Proserpine businesses and showcase the creativity and community spirit of the region during the festive season.”

Mayor Ry Collins said Christmas in Proserpine is all about community, and this year’s Twilight Fair is shaping up to be one of our best yet.

“Council is proud to back this event and work alongside Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP to create a magical night for families right across the district,” said Mayor Ry Collins.

“From helping coordinate the road closure and supporting local traders, to funding the children’s activities so rides are free for all, Council is ensuring the Prossie Main Street will come alive. It’s going to be a fantastic celebration of Proserpine’s spirit.”

Division 3 Councillor John Colins said he was thrilled to see so many local businesses staying open late and joining in the festivities.

“What makes Proserpine such a great place to live is that our community show up, support our locals, and make memories together,” he said.

“I hope everyone comes down, grabs a bite to eat, checks out the stalls and enjoys the Christmas atmosphere.”

Best Dressed Window Display:
Judging Criteria
Entries will be judged by The Hon. Amanda Camm MP and Mayor Ry Collins during the Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair, 5pm-8pm Friday 12 December and prizes will be awarded for:
• Creativity and originality
• Visual appeal and festive impact
• Connection to Proserpine
• Overall presentation and effort

Safety & Practicalities
• Keep walkways clear and avoid creating tripping hazards.
• Ensure electrical items are safe for use in a commercial property.
• Avoid blocking key lines of sight for staff working inside.

Community Spirit
• Incorporate elements that reflect local culture, history, or the Proserpine community where appropriate.
• Consider using locally sourced materials or products to highlight local business connections.
• Collaborative displays between neighbouring businesses are welcome.

Participation
• All Proserpine retailers and service businesses with a Main Street facing window are welcome to participate.
• Displays should ideally be ready for viewing by 12pm Friday 12 December, with judging to take place during the Fair.

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December

12 Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair, Main St, 5pm - 8pm

12 Bowen Christmas Night Markets, Town Centre, 5pm - 9pm

12 74 Islands Christmas Cocktail Club, Elmenta Whitsundays, from 5pm

13 Ross Wilson & The Peaceniks - 50 Years Of Hits Tour, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 10.30pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

14 Kids Christmas Disco Party, Club Whitsunday, 10am - 12pm

17 A DinoMite Baby Dinosaur Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 10am - 11am

19 74 Islands Christmas Cocktail Club, Elmenta Whitsundays, from 5pm

19 The Grinch, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

20 Proserpine Farmers Christmas Market, 10 Edward St, 8am - 12pm

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

24 Members Christmas Eve Drinks, Club Whitsunday, 2pm - 5pm

25 Christmas Day

26 Boxing Day

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

31 New Year’s Eve

February

1 THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 6pm - 8.15pm

March

22 The UK Rod Stewart Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

May

1 SPOT, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 12pm - 12.50pm

13 Luke Kidgell - Good Intentions, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9pm

31 Creedence Clearwater Collective, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 9.45pm

June

26 Echoes of Pink Floyd - 60 Years of Pink Floyd, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 8pm - 10.45pm

July

25 - 26 Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival

August

7 Room on the Broom, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 1pm - 1.55pm

9 A Taste of Ireland, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 4pm - 6pm

September

11 - 12 White on Whitsunday Long Lunch, Whitehaven Beach, from 8am

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Friday 12 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Ash Smith (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Saturday 13 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Xmas Party (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Zed Charles (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Bad Girl (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Sunday 14 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Xmas Party (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Zed Charles (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Noah Davis (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Monday 15 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Tuesday 16 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Michael Hayes (from 8pm)

Wednesday 17 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Thursday 18 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Nick Di Gregorio (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Pheonix Revival (from 8pm)

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Club Whitsunday officially kicked off their jam-packed December last weekend with an appearance from Santa Claus and The Australian Grinch.

For those that missed out, it's okay! Santa will be making weekly appearances, visiting the club every Sunday before Christmas on December 14 and 21 at 2pm - 3pm.

Next Sunday brings a highlight for local families, with a free kids’ disco hosted by DJ Bad Girl from 10am to 12pm. Parents are welcome to drop the children off for two hours of supervised entertainment while they enjoy a relaxed morning. Following the disco, Santa will be making another appearance for free photographs.

Club Whitsunday will also be hosting raffles, one on Saturday 13 December, and a special kids raffle on Sunday 21 December. The raffles have over $5000 worth of prizes.

Wrapping up December, on Christmas Eve from 2pm-5pm, Club Whitsunday are saying thank you and celebrating their members with an exclusive Members and family drinks.

Looking ahead, the club is planning a casual, family-friendly New Year’s Eve event featuring early dinner and entertainment, timed so patrons can still head into town for fireworks if they wish. A major Australia Day event is also in the works, with details to come.

With events scheduled every weekend throughout December, Club Whitsunday will be the hub for festive fun and community connection this holiday season.

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Carols by the Beach

On a beautiful summer Sunday afternoon, friends and family gathered to celebrate the emerging festival season. Families headed to the Airlie Beach Foreshore for an evening of music, festive cheer and good times. Cannonvale State School sang with passion and whimsy, marking the beginning of a beautiful, celebratory season. The weather was soothing, the mood was up, and the atmosphere was beaming, resulting in a fantastic event that signified the Whitsunday region's immense excitement for all things Christmas.

Find more social pics here: https://tinyurl.com/23tna62q

Georgia, Isla and Demi. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie.

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THE UNOFFICIAL TRIBUTE SHOW - TAYLOR: A Tribute to the Eras of Taylor Swift Music – is set to begin its Australian tour this January, taking in dates across QLD, New South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory.

The Proserpine Entertainment Centre is one of the lucky venues to watch the show live on Sunday February 1st.

“There’s a lot of buzz at the moment. We’re expecting audiences to be extra excited and engaged, and that’s great because it makes for really fun and memorable shows,” says producer Johnny Van Grinsven.

The production, which debuted just this year has already toured to South Africa, Canada and New Zealand with the Australian tour to kick start the new year.

The show is lead by New Zealand singer-songwriter and recording artist Josette. She considers herself a huge swiftie and she bears resemblance too. Josette will show off her skills as a multi-instrumentalist in the lead role, performing live on vocals, guitar and piano, accompanied by an international cast of musicians and dancers who will be recreating the most memorable moments from Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour, complete with all the famous sparkly costumes and cosmic stage production.

Touted as a ‘joyous and effervescent’ concert experience where fans are encouraged to dance and sing along, the show features over 20 exquisite renditions of Taylor’s biggest hits from every era of her career, including Shake It Off, Anti-Hero, Cruel Summer, You Belong With Me, Love Story, I Knew You Were Trouble, Blank Space, We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, Bad Blood, Our Song, Lover and more.

Tickets are available now via the Proserpine Entertainment Centre's website.

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Friday 5 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Ally Friendship - Rock & Country Show (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dave Johan (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)

Saturday 6 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Shania Twain Tribute Show (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Tailgate Party - Best of Modern Country (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Live Music (1pm - 5pm)

Sunday 7 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Luke Combs Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dave Johan (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Live Music (1pm - 5pm)

Monday 8 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Tuesday 9 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Wednesday 10 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Thursday 11 December
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)

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December

4 Bunnings Family Night, Bunnings Carpark, 4pm - 7pm

5 Chez’s House Of Dance & Whitsunday Allstars Annual Showcase 2025, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 12pm

5 74 Islands Christmas Cocktail Club, Elmenta Whitsundays, from 5pm

6 Journey to JOY by NewLife Whitsundays, 26 Paluma Rd, from 5pm

7 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

7 Proserpine Community Christmas Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

7 Whitsunday Surf Saving Club Family Fun Day, Bowen Pool, 9am - 12pm

7 Lunchtime Fun with The Grinch, Club Whitsunday, 12pm - 2pm

7 Carols by the Beach Presents: Fred Clause, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

9 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

12 Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair, Main St, 5pm - 8pm

12 Bowen Christmas Night Markets, Town Centre, 5pm - 9pm

12 74 Islands Christmas Cocktail Club, Elmenta Whitsundays, from 5pm

13 Ross Wilson & The Peaceniks - 50 Years Of Hits Tour, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm - 10.30pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

14 Kids Christmas Disco Party, Club Whitsunday, 10am - 12pm

17 A DinoMite Baby Dinosaur Show, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 10am - 11am

19 74 Islands Christmas Cocktail Club, Elmenta Whitsundays, from 5pm

19 The Grinch, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

20 Proserpine Farmers Christmas Market, 10 Edward St, 8am - 12pm

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

24 Members Christmas Eve Drinks, Club Whitsunday, 2pm - 5pm

25 Christmas Day

26 Boxing Day

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

31 New Year’s Eve

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Airlie Beach is getting ready to ring in the New Year with one of its biggest celebrations yet, as the Airlie Beach Hotel prepares to host a massive New Year’s Eve countdown headlined by Big City Beat’s electrifying Bruno Mars Tribute titled Australian Bruno Mars Show

The internationally toured Melbourne group, known for their high-energy stagecraft and dynamic ensemble, will debut in Airlie Beach with a full-scale New Years Eve production built around the Bruno Mars party set that has taken them across the globe.

As midnight approaches, the band will launch into their tribute to the global superstar Bruno Mars, delivering hit after hit from the acclaimed artist alongside tracks from the artists who helped shape his sound including Prince, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, Tina Turner and Justin Timberlake.

Designed as the centrepiece of the countdown, the Bruno Mars performance promises soaring vocals, slick choreography, and a dancefloor-packed atmosphere perfectly timed for the final moments of 2025.

Before the Bruno Mars Tribute hits the stage, the 11-piece band will warm up the night with their popular '70s, 80s, 90s' set, a colourful, costume-filled trip through the biggest party anthems of each decade. Known for it's humour, audience interaction and energetic musicianship, Big City Beat are set to turn The Pub into a full-scale New Year’s party from the moment they hit the stage.

With a two-decade touring history that includes shows in Beijing, Tokyo, Oman, Singapore and Jakarta, the group has built a reputation for blending musical precision with infectious fun. Their visit to the Whitsundays marks their first-ever Airlie Beach performance, with several band members planning to extend their stay and soak up the region.

A strong crowd is expected as locals and visitors flock to The Pub to countdown together and welcome 2025 to the soundtrack of Bruno Mars’ biggest hits.

WHAT: New Year’s Eve Countdown with Big City Beat - Australian Bruno Mars Show
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Wednesday 31 December
1st Set – 70s – 7pm to 7:50pm
2nd Set – 80s – 8:20pm to 9.10pm
3rd Set – 90s – 9:40pm to 10:30
4th Set – BRUNO MARS SHOW- 11pm to MIDNIGHT

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Friday 28 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Darcy David (from 8pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Noah Davies (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Saturday 29 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Royale With Cheese Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Noah Davies (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Session (2-6pm)
Sorrento: Simon Briley (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Sunday 30 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Royale With Cheese Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Erin Reus (4pm - 8pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Scotty Wilson (1pm - 4pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Simon Briley (2pm - 6pm)
Sorrento: Ash Smith (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Leah Zador (from 8pm)

Monday 1 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Tuesday 2 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Wednesday 3 December
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Thursday 4 December
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)

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Country Jam Festival Hits Airlie Beach

Airlie Beach is set for a country music takeover from December 5–7 as the Jack Daniel’s Country Jam Festival returns to the Airlie Beach Hotel. Free entry and three days of live entertainment make it one of the biggest country weekends of the year.

The festival kicks off Friday night with a high-voltage performance from Ally Friendship, fresh from her stint on The Voice, where she chose team Richard Marx. Her performance on The Voice gained a standing ovation and displayed her powerful vocals to a national audience. Known for her powerhouse vocals and dynamic stage presence, Ally will deliver a mix of rock and country classics from Eagles to Chris Stapleton and Bon Jovi in the Sports Bar from 7–10pm. Her performances are a rare treat in a live festival setting, blending evening show energy with a sports bar atmosphere that’s perfect for fans wanting an up-close, intimate experience.

Saturday afternoon, the spotlight moves to the Bistro stage for the Australian Shania Twain tribute show, Let’s Go Girls!. Ally transforms into the ultimate Country Queen, belting out hits like “Man! I Feel Like a Woman” and “That Don’t Impress Me Much” with authenticity and flair.

As the sun sets, the party atmosphere ramps up with the Trucker Hat Appreciation Society Tailgate Party in the Sports Bar from 7–10pm. The Tailgate is a festival highlight, with boots, buckles, and honky-tonk energy as the band covers country hits from Garth Brooks and Alan Jackson to Luke Combs and Morgan Wallen. This lively evening show pairs perfectly with the festival’s daytime tribute performances, giving fans a full spectrum of country fun in one venue. It's a combination of all of the best in modern country music and all for free too.

Sunday afternoon keeps the energy rolling with the Luke Combs Hurricane tribute in the Bistro from 2–5:30pm. Fans can sing along to all the hits, capping off a weekend packed with country spirit.

For those looking to add some two-step to the weekend, Tropical Boots is offering free line dancing lessons in the Sports Bar Saturday and Sunday which is perfect for getting your boots festival-ready.

With live music day and night, ice-cold Jack Daniel’s, and a mix of tribute shows and tailgate energy, the Jack Daniel’s Country Jam Festival promises a weekend of unforgettable country fun for fans of all ages.

WHAT: Jack Daniel’s Country Jam Festival
WHERE: Airlie Beach Hotel (Sports Bar and Bistro)
WHEN: Friday 5 December – Sunday 7 December

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Friday 21 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Zed Charles (from 8pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Michelle White (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Erin Reus (from 8pm)

Saturday 22 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Matchbox 20 Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Call Me Maybe DJ (from 8pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Simon Briley (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Session (2-6pm)
Sorrento: Ian (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Sunday 23 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Matchbox 20 Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Erin Reus (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Scotty Wilson (1pm - 4pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Noah Davis (2pm - 6pm)
Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Monday 24 November
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Tuesday 25 November
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Wednesday 26 November
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Thursday 27 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

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November

21 Rango and Drop Dead Fred, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

22 Lions Airlie Beach Community Markets, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 7am

23 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

25 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

25 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

26 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

29 Lions Airlie Beach Community Markets, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 7am

30 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

December

2 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

3 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

4 Morning Melodies - Home for Christmas, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11:00am

7 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

7 Proserpine Community Christmas Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

7 Lunchtime Fun with The Grinch, Club Whitsunday, 12pm - 2pm

7 Carols by the Beach Presents: Fred Clause, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

9 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

12 Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair, Main St, 5pm - 8pm

12 Bowen Christmas Night Markets, Town Centre, 5pm - 9pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

14 Kids Christmas Disco Party, Club Whitsunday, 10am - 12pm

19 The Grinch, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

24 Members Christmas Eve Drinks, Club Whitsunday, 2pm - 5pm

25 Christmas Day

26 Boxing Day

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

31 New Year’s Eve

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Airlie Beach is gearing up for a high-energy week of music and entertainment, with internationally toured performance group Big City Beat preparing to make their debut at the Airlie Beach Hotel this New Years Eve.

The Melbourne-based band, which has been performing for around 20 years, will deliver their full-scale New Year’s Eve production. Known for their high-energy performances and large ensemble, Big City Beat features an 11-piece lineup of male and female vocalists, dancers, instrumentalists, percussion and a three-piece brass section.

Their New Year’s Eve event will showcase the band’s popular 70s, 80s, 90s show. Which includes costumes and the biggest hits of each decade. The performance includes tongue-in-cheek moments, audience interaction and a party atmosphere designed to bring the eras to life.

As the clock nears midnight, the show will transition into their Bruno Mars Tribute, a celebration of the pop star’s music along with songs from artists who influenced him, including Prince, Michael Jackson, Beyoncé, Tina Turner and Justin Timberlake.

Big City Beat’s show formats have taken them around the world, including multiple performances in Beijing, Tokyo, Oman, Singapore and Jakarta, as well as theatres and major events across Australia. Their upcoming visit will mark the band’s first time performing in Airlie Beach, with several members planning to stay on and enjoy the region.

Known for blending musical precision with humour, choreography and crowd involvement, the band promises a lively and engaging experience for New Year’s Eve revellers and holidaymakers throughout their stay.

Big City Beat will appear at the Airlie Beach Hotel across New Year’s week, with their headline New Year’s Eve performance set to draw a strong crowd.

WHAT: New Years Eve
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Wednesday 31st December (from 7pm)

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Call For Stall Holders And Food Vendors

Get ready for a night of festive cheer and community spirit - the Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair is returning to Main Street on Friday, 12 December 2025, from 5.00pm to 8.00pm.

Local market stall holders and food vendors are being asked to take part in what promises to be a magical evening celebrating everything we love about our community - local creativity, good food, and Christmas joy.

It's the perfect way to kick off the Christmas Spirit and with Santa, kids’ activities including face painting, local artisan stalls with last-minute gift ideas, food trucks and sweet treats plus Live music and Christmas carols, the night is set to inspire the Christmas spirit in all.

The event will transform Main Street into a festive hub filled with twinkling lights, music, delicious bites, and family fun. It’s a wonderful opportunity for local makers, producers, and small businesses to showcase their products and connect with the community.

Expressions of Interest are now open and can be sent to whitsunday@parliament.qld.gov.au
Let’s make this year’s Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair the most magical one yet!

WHAT: Proserpine Twilight Christmas Fair
WHEN: Friday, 12 December 2025, from 5.00pm to 8.00pm.
WHERE: Main Street, Proserpine

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The 2024 Proserpine Twilight Markets

Mel Brookes and Reef Brookes

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November

16 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

20 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

21 Rango and Drop Dead Fred, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

23 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

25 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

25 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

26 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

30 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

December

2 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

3 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

4 Morning Melodies - Home for Christmas, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11:00am

7 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

7 Proserpine Community Christmas Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

7 Carols by the Beach Presents: Fred Clause, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

9 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

12 Bowen Christmas Night Markets, Town Centre, 5pm - 9pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

19 The Grinch, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

25 Christmas Day

26 Boxing Day

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

31 New Year’s Eve

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Fans of Matchbox Twenty and Rob Thomas are in for a treat next weekend as the Australian Matchbox Twenty Tribute Show heads to the Airlie Beach Hotel for the very first time.

While the band’s guitarist has previously visited the Whitsundays with the INXS Tribute Show, founding member and bass player Ronny Howard said the full group is excited to make its debut in paradise.

“If you could see what the weather in Melbourne is doing today, you wouldn’t need to ask if we’re looking forward to it,” he laughed.

“It was 12 degrees yesterday, we’ll take the humid weather any day.”

The show blends the biggest hits from both Matchbox Twenty and Rob Thomas’s solo career, creating a setlist that promises something for everyone. Fans can expect to hear classics like 3AM, Unwell, Bent, How Far We’ve Come and Smooth, along with newer favourites such as Her Diamonds and Little Wonders.

“We love engaging with the audience,” Ronny said. “It’s relaxed, energetic and fun. If people start singing along, we’ll often just let them take over. It’s all about getting everyone involved.”

The tribute band has been performing together for nearly two decades, with Ronny, the drummer and guitarist forming the original lineup around 18 years ago. Their current lead singer, Sean, joined a few years back and has since made a big impression.

“We’ve had some incredible shows over the years. One of our biggest was a sold-out amphitheatre gig in Canberra,” Ronny said.

The tribute band has played all over the country and is looking at adding South Australia to its show list in 2026.

The Australian Matchbox Twenty Tribute will hit the stage at the Airlie Beach Hotel next weekend, looking forward to escaping the chilly Melbourne weather.

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The dust has settled on the Whitsundays, but the sound of music still echoes in Airlie Beach as the 2025 Airlie Beach Festival of Music wraps up, celebrating a record-breaking year for both attendance and community spirit.

The three-day music event, which saw the town's venues and the iconic Main Tent fully activated, delivered an estimated $5 million injection into the local economy. This huge success was driven by a staggering turnout, confirming the festival's status as a must-attend event on the national music calendar. The introduction of new 2-day ticket options and innovative camping packages was credited as a major success factor in accommodating the massive demand.

Record Attendance and Community Triumph

This year, the festival recorded a sellout on Saturday night with 3,000 people in the Main Tent, with thousands more joining across the 15 venues throughout Airlie Beach over the weekend.

Festival Founder, Gavin Butlin, was quick to praise the incredible collaboration that drives the event.

“This year was truly special because every single person contributed to the magic,” Mr. Butlin said.

“To our incredible artists—from Jessica Mauboy and The Screaming Jets to every single band and artist on a venue stage—thank you for the soundtrack to our festival. To our dedicated staff, local businesses, and venue partners, your professionalism makes the town takeover seamless. And most importantly, to our magnificent volunteers—you are the heart and soul of this event, and without your tireless energy, this success story wouldn't be possible.”

Fostering Future Talent: A Mauboy Moment

Beyond the headline shows, a key highlight of the 2025 festival was its deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of Australian talent.

This commitment was powerfully demonstrated by headline artist Jessica Mauboy, who created a special moment by meeting with Indigenous youth performers, who had performed on the Amped Up stage at Club Whitsunday, prior to her electrifying Sunday performance. This moment underscores Mauboy’s and Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s dedication to developing future stars.

By incorporating these youth programs and initiatives like the highly successful Passport to Airlie competition, the festival is actively fostering emerging artists to take the stage in future years, securing the sound of Australian music.

The festival's unique town-wide model, utilising 15 venues, ensured that the economic benefit flowed directly through the community, boosting accommodation providers, restaurants, and local tourism operators throughout the entire five-day period and beyond.

Planning for the 2026 Airlie Beach Festival of Music is already underway, promising to build on this year’s phenomenal success and solidify its reputation as the ultimate music holiday destination. Super bird tickets are on sale now at airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au

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Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes and SWAMPHOUSE Photography

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The Ultimate Music Holiday Is Here!

The countdown is officially over the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is set to transform Airlie Beach into Australia’s most spectacular music playground. With venues across town polishing their stages and the Main Tent standing proudly against the Coral Sea, anticipation for the four-day music extravaganza is reaching fever pitch.

This year’s lineup features a phenomenal mix of Australian legends, powerhouse performers, and exciting new talent, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Whitsundays.

The Passport to Airlie Finals with up-and-coming acts from 9 regions around Australia, plus last year’s winner Tom Neilson kick off Friday night, followed by Pete Murray and The Screaming Jets who are set to deliver a massive punch of rock and roots.

Saturday is dominated by Australian rock royalty with an unmissable evening featuring Diesel, Choirboys, Tex Perkins & Matt Walker, and the pop brilliance of Bachelor Girl.

The Main Tent closes on Sunday with the incredible vocal power of Jessica Mauboy followed by the blues mastery of The Black Sorrows and country rock icon, Jayne Denham.

Beyond the Main Tent, over 60 acts, including blues legends like blues legend Lloyd Spiegel, festival favourite David Flower Band and high-energy bands like Viva Band, will be taking over 15 venues from Thursday night’s Welcome Party through to the Monday Afterparty.

Festival Founder, Gavin Butlin, emphasises that the town is ready for the takeover.
"The energy this year is palpable. The whole community—from our venues and accommodation partners to our local residents—is geared up to host the best festival yet. If you haven't secured your ticket, now is your last chance. Grab your pass and prepare for the ultimate music holiday!”

Check to see if tickets are still available. Festival-goers are strongly encouraged to download the final schedule and plot their musical journey across the venues before arriving in paradise.

What: Airlie Beach Festival of Music
When: 7 - 9 November 2025
Where: Airlie Beach, The Whitsundays, QLD

The main stage is set to rock the town.

The Whitsunday Sailing Club will be the home of the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

Photos supplied

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After several months performing across Europe, Melbourne singer-songwriter Tanya George is heading home to play at this year’s Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

Tanya said the past few months have been a dream come true after being flown to Italy in July to perform at the Roma Busking Festival.

Since then, Tanya said she has been touring Europe, with large crowds welcoming her and making her feel immensely proud of how far her music can reach.

Tanya George was a finalist on The Voice and has won multiple busking competitions all over the world. In 2019, she was flown to South Korea to compete in the Busking World Cup in Gwangju, and she placed fourth in the world.

“I busked a lot when I was younger, and I think that helped build quite an audience and a fan base for now,” she explained. “But I don't think at the time, I knew how much all that hard work was paying off.”

This month, she’ll trade Berlin’s winter for the Whitsundays’ sunshine, performing across three venues during the festival.

Elementa on Friday, November 7 at 2.30pm, KC’s Bar and Grill on Saturday, November 8 at 1pm, and Sorrento's on Sunday, November 9 at 11.45am.

And this visit coincides with the release of her latest single, Piece of Mess, out Thursday, November 6, the third track from her forthcoming debut album Contrast, due next year.

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Tanya George is playing at three venues across the weekend. Don't miss out! Photo supplied

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Friday 7 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: INXS Tribute (from 2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Soul Chisel (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Three's a Crowd (from 8pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Sam Bannick (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
Sorrento: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
Club Whitsunday: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
Colonial Palms Motor Inn: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
Elementa: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
KC's: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events

Saturday 8 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Soul Chisel (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Dedication to Prince (7pm - 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam Bannick (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Loui Battour (2-6pm)
Sorrento: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
Club Whitsunday: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
Colonial Palms Motor Inn: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
Elementa: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
KC's: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events

Sunday 9 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Dedication to George Michael (2pm - 5.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jasob Bull (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Coralene Beach Club (2pm - 6pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Jan Arns (1pm - 4pm)
Sorrento: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
Club Whitsunday: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
Colonial Palms Motor Inn: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
Elementa: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
KC's: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events

Monday 10 November
Sorrento: Airlie Beach Festival of Music Events
KC's: Tim Johnston (from 8pm)

Tuesday 11 November
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Wednesday 12 November
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Matt Angell (from 8pm)

Thursday 13 November
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

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November

7 Airlie Beach Festival of Music (day one), Whitsunday Sailing Club, 3pm

7 Rango followed by Drop Dead Fred, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

8 Airlie Beach Festival of Music (day two), Whitsunday Sailing Club, 4pm

9 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

9 Airlie Beach Festival of Music (day three), Whitsunday Sailing Club, 1pm

10 Airlie Beach Festival of Music After Party, Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill, 1pm

11 Remembrance Day

11 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

12 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

16 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

20 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

21 Babe, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

23 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

25 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

25 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

26 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

30 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

December

2 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

3 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

4 Morning Melodies - Home for Christmas, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11:00am

7 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

7 Proserpine Community Christmas Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

7 Carols by the Beach Presents: Fred Clause, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

9 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

19 The Grinch, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

25 Christmas Day

26 Boxing Day

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

31 New Year’s Eve

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Australian music legend Andrew De Silva is bringing two powerhouse tribute shows to Airlie Beach this weekend, celebrating the music of Prince and George Michael with all the style, soul, and groove of the originals.

Dedication to Prince has been one of Andrew’s signature performances since 2016, coincidentally debuting just three weeks before the music icon’s passing. For Andrew, Prince’s influence runs deep.

“Prince has always been in my DNA when it comes to music,” he said.

“The way he mixed funk, rock and R&B together. I’ve always been into that, and he does it really well.

“No one does it like Prince.”

The show honours Prince’s artistry through live, high-energy versions of his greatest hits.

Andrew explains how the live versions are faster, funkier and full of energy. He said it’s electric from the first note and everybody rushes to the dance floor.

Audiences can expect classics like Purple Rain, Diamonds and Pearls, all are performed with the same passion that’s earned Andrew his national acclaim and invitations from international stages.

Adding to the excitement, Andrew will also perform his George Michael Tribute Show, titled Dedication to George Michael. Andrew has played at the Airlie Beach Hotel before, but this will the first time he performs Dedication to George Michael.

Aside from the leather jackets in the Airlie Beach heat, Andrew is excited to perform this new show.

“Prince and George Michael, were like superheroes to me growing up,” he said.

From soulful ballads like Father Figure to upbeat hits such as Fastlove, the show takes audiences on a nostalgic journey through George Michael’s extraordinary career.

Having performed at the Airlie Beach Hotel just once, Andrew said he’s thrilled to be returning and this time, with two shows in one weekend.

“It’s paradise up there for us Melbourne folks,” he laughed.

With two tribute shows, this weekend will be providing locals and visitors alike with two nights of pure musical magic not to be missed.

WHAT: Dedication to Prince
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 8 November (7pm – 10pm)

WHAT:  Dedication to George Michael
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Sunday 9 November (2pm – 5.30pm)

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The Airlie Beach Festival of Music is once again proving why it’s known as "The Ultimate Music Holiday," not just for its epic lineup, but for its deep roots and support within the Whitsundays community. As the town transforms into one giant stage, the festival is celebrating a year of unprecedented success.

This year, the festival has smashed all previous ticket sales and will deliver its biggest lineup yet. This success is directly tied to the festival’s flexible ticketing, opening up more ways for people to enjoy the music across 15 different local venues—from the Main Tent at the Whitsunday Sailing Club to vibrant main street pubs. This town-wide takeover ensures that local businesses, from restaurants to accommodation partners, feel the benefit of every single ticket sold.

Festival Founder and Director, Gavin Butlin, expressed his pride in the community spirit.
“It’s truly incredible. This festival started as an idea, and now it’s a destination event, drawing in thousands to experience the heart of live music, Airlie Beach."

“Seeing the venues packed, the local businesses thriving, and our residents embracing the crowds is what makes all the hard work worthwhile. The support from our local community and partners is the foundation of our success and ensures that this 'music holiday' remains sustainable and special for years to come,” Mr Butlin added.

With headliners like Pete Murray, Jessica Mauboy, and The Screaming Jets rocking the stages, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music is defying the odds, where world-class music meets the world’s most beautiful backyard.

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The Airlie Beach Festival of Music is set to be the biggest and most diverse lineup yet. With three full days (plus a welcome party and after party) of world-class acts across 15 iconic venues, the Whitsundays are preparing for a spectacular town-wide music takeover.

From rock legends and chart-topping pop stars to Australia’s finest blues and roots artists, the stage is set for an unforgettable journey of sound.

Kick-Off and Friday Rock Royalty

The party begins on Thursday night at the Magnums Welcome Party, promising a high-energy start with acts like TRILLA, Lucy Gallant, and Viva Band setting the tropical tone late into the night.

Friday at the Main Tent is dedicated to celebrating talent, both emerging and established. The afternoon kicks off with the intense competition of the Passport to Airlie Finalists, culminating with the triumphant return of 2024 winner Tom Neilson. The night escalates rapidly into legendary status with the smooth, sun-drenched sounds of Pete Murray changing seamlessly into the raw, powerful anthems of Australian rock icons, The Screaming Jets, guaranteed to close the first major day with a bang at 10:00pm.

Saturday: Australian Rock & Pop Powerhouses

Saturday is a masterclass in diverse Australian music royalty. The afternoon begins with the grooves of The Natural Culture, perfectly setting the scene for an evening of legendary performers. At 6:00pm, the stage welcomes the unique acoustic mastery of Tex Perkins and Matt Walker.

The tempo elevates significantly when Bachelor Girl takes the stage at 7:30pm to deliver their catalogue of classic hits. The energy continues to build as the incomparable Diesel straps on his guitar at 8:45pm, proving why he remains one of the country's most respected rock musicians. Capping off the night at 10:00pm are the beloved Choirboys, ensuring the Main Tent is shaking until close.

Sunday & Monday Grand Finale

The festival closes on a high on Sunday with a sensational showcase of blues, country, and pop excellence. The afternoon begins with the heartfelt rock of the Dave Flower Band and the powerful country punch of Jayne Denham. Blues aficionados will be treated to the incredible guitar work of Lloyd Spiegel at 4:15pm before the event hits its peak.

The Sunday Main Tent headliners are an unmissable double feature: the electrifying energy and vocal brilliance of Jessica Mauboy at 5:30pm, followed by the legendary rhythm and blues collective, The Black Sorrows, closing out the Main Tent at 7:00pm.

But the music doesn't stop there. The final goodbye is the Monday After Party at Northerlies, where you can unwind to the sounds of Tiffany Grace, Bear Brewer, James Bennett, and a final, must-see set from blues virtuoso Lloyd Spiegel at 5:00pm.

Don't miss your chance to be part of the biggest music holiday in the Whitsundays. Your four-day soundtrack awaits!

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The heat is picking up and there's nowhere better than the movie screen to escape the heat.

Bowen Summergarden Cinema located on 40 Murroona Street in Bowen has been showing blockbusters to Whitsunday residents since 1948 and its the perfect place to visit to get out of the humid air.

This Halloween weekend Twilight is showing again in cinemas to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the first book. In Twilight Bella Swan, a teenager who moves to the small town of Forks, Washington. There, she meets Edward Cullen, a boy who turns out to be a vampire. As they fall in love, Bella learns more about his secret world and the dangers that come with it, especially when other vampires show up and threaten her life.

Also showing at Bowen Summergarden Cinema is Good Fortune starring Keanu Reeves, this film follows an angel played by Keanu Reeves as he meddles in the lives of a struggling gig worker and wealthy venture capitalist.

The Travellers stars Luke Bracey and Bryan Brown and is about a stage designer returning to Australia to say goodbye to his dying mother. A quick trip descends into chaos, drama, and funny moments as he juggles family tension, past lovers, and returning to Europe for an opera contract.

Regretting You is based upon the best-selling author Colleen Hoover's novel of the same name. The film is centered on the strained relationship between young mother Morgan Grant and her teenage daughter Clara, exacerbated by Morgan's husband Chris's tragic death, it forces them to navigate life's challenges together.

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Friday 31 October
Grand View Hotel: Matt Black Band(from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: David Flower and Friends(5.30pm - 8.30pm)
KC's: Velvet Divan (from 8pm)

Saturday 1 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Grease Tribute (2pm - 5.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: David Flower and Friends (5.30pm - 8.30pm)

Sunday 2 November
Airlie Beach Hotel: Two Strong Hearts / John Farnham and Olivia Newton-John Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Matty Black (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Simon Briley (4pm - 7pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: David Flower and Friends (5.30pm - 8.30pm)

Monday 3 November
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Tuesday 4 November
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Wednesday 5 November
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)

Thursday 6 November
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)

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November

2 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

5 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

7 Rango followed by Drop Dead Fred, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

9 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

11 Remembrance Day

11 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

12 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

16 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

20 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

21 Babe, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

23 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

25 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

25 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

26 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

30 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

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Hollywood glitz, glam and undeniable groove will hit the Airlie Beach Hotel on Saturday the 8th and Sunday the 9th of November for two stellar shows by Andrew De Silva.

A national treasure, Andrew De Silva has earned the title of one of Australia’s most accomplished and enduring voices in R&B and soul, leading him to accumulate an ARIA Award and a well-deserved place in Australian music history.

In 2012, Andrew captured the hearts of the nation when he was crowned winner of Australia’s Got Talent.

His commanding voice and dynamic stage presence have earned him the opportunity to perform alongside global superstars, supporting Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men during their Australian tours.

Before Australia’s Got Talent, Andrew co-created CDB, an Australian R&B, dance and vocal harmony quartet formed in 1991.

CDB, short for Central Dandenong Boys, rose to fame in the mid-1990s with their chart-topping R&B sound. Their biggest hit was a cover of Earth, Wind & Fire’s Let’s Groove, which reached number two on the ARIA Singles Chart and claimed the top spot in New Zealand. Another single, Hey Girl (This Is Our Time), also hit number one in New Zealand. The group released their debut studio album Glide with Me in November 1995 before disbanding in 1999.

Since his success on Australia’s Got Talent, Andrew’s solo career has soared to new heights, captivating the nation with his raw talent and heartfelt performances.

Andrew remains committed to his roots as a songwriter and producer, releasing chart-topping hits such as Coffee, Your Paradise, Into The Night and What’s Up What’s Down, which has reached over 400,000 international streams. In 2024, his album Lighthill Session reached number one on the Australian iTunes R&B charts, reaffirming his relevance and creative fire within the music industry and beyond.

“That voice is for the masses” – Brian McFadden

“That was absolutely brilliant” – Dannii Minogue

“You’re a true artist” – Todd McKenney

With all these accolades, it is now time for the Airlie Beach Hotel to hear Andrew’s electrifying voice. He has sold out venues across the country and will soon grace the stage right here in Airlie Beach.

In recent years, Andrew has been smashing it as a tribute artist. His Prince tribute has reached extraordinary heights, selling out venues nationwide.

In 2024, Andrew released his newest tribute act, his Dedication to George Michael.
At the Airlie Beach Hotel, Andrew will be performing both shows on consecutive days. Two days of unmissable soundtracks that will take you back to your youth.

Joining Andrew will be the widely celebrated Ultimate Party Funk Band, which will have guests movin’ and groovin’ to the sounds of the 70s, 80s and 90s across both electrifying performances.

With the dates set and the excitement building, you certainly do not want to miss this weekend of incredible talent at the Airlie Beach Hotel.

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What: Andrew De Silva
When: 8th and 9th of November
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel

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New Whitsundays Dancing CEO announced

The Whitsundays’ inaugural team of Dancing CEOs, Kate Purdie (Coral Sea Marina), Julie Telford (SeaLink Whitsundays), Candice Crossley (Whitsunday Transit) and Alice Harriott (Whitsunday Family Dental), have officially passed the disco ball to McGrath Whitsunday’s Clarice Davis, as the region’s next Dancing CEO.

Newly anointed into the 2026 cohort of Women’s Legal Service Queensland (WLSQ) fundraising ambassadors this week, Ms Davis acknowledged that in taking over from the reigning community awareness and fundraising champions for 2025, there were big shoes to fill.

“Over the past year, the Whitsunday community has rallied behind Kate, Julie, Candice and Alice, raising a staggering $238,734 for WLSQ and ultimately the women and children impacted by domestic violence across our state whom this organisation works to protect,” she said.

“My goal is to build on this incredible legacy going forward into 2026, so that help remains available to those in our communities who need it most.”

Speaking on behalf of the original Whitsundays team, Candice Crossley said being a Dancing CEO was “a lot of work, but so worth it”.

“We’re all delighted that Clarice is continuing the momentum and creating even more awareness around an issue that is too important to be forgotten,” she said.

WLSQ CEO, Nadia Bromley, said funds raised by the 2026 Dancing CEOs would assist WLSQ to have an established presence in Central Queensland and the Whitsundays, ensuring more regional women could receive free legal and support services in response to domestic violence.

“We are so grateful to the incredible teams from the Whitsundays area,” Ms Bromley said.

With the help of Dancing CEOs alumni Katelyn Aslett-Collins, Ms Davis will now work on her own fundraising plan, including a return of the ‘Epic Walk for DV’ in March.

For more information on sponsorship opportunities, email kate@tastewhitsunday.com.au or claricedavis@mcgrath.com.au and to donate directly to Ms Davis’ campaign, visit https://www.dancingceos.com.au/clarice-davis.

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October

24 Halloween Special: Hotel Transylvania, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

25 Life Publishing Group: Enchanted Garden Fundraiser, Elementa, 5.30pm-11pm, $330

26 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

29 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

November

2 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

5 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

7 Rango followed by Drop Dead Fred, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

9 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

11 Remembrance Day

11 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

12 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

16 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

20 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

21 Babe, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

23 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

25 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

25 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

26 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

30 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

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Friday 24 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jessica Cash (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Kaedan McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Jolly Lingo (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
KC's: Pheonix Revival (from 8pm)

Saturday 25 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Nearly Neil (2pm - 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: ALTimate Grunge (from 8pm)
Sorrento: Simon Briley (4pm - 7pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Nick Di Grigio (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
KC's: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

Sunday 26 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Nearly Neil (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Paul Berger (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Pluto Tango (1pm - 5pm)
Sorrento: Kieran McCarthy (4pm - 7pm)
Horseshoe Bay Cafe: Scotty Wilson (5.30pm - 8.30pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Monday 27 October
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Coralene Beach Club (2pm - 6pm)
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Tuesday 28 October
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Scotty Wilson (from 8pm)

Wednesday 29 October
Sorrento: Will Heta (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Thursday 30 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
Sorrento: Lucy Rose (4pm - 7pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

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The one and only Melbourne Cup Day will soon be upon us, and the beloved Airlie Beach Hotel (ABH) have put together a stellar line up to ensure your day is nothing short of memorable!

On Tuesday, the 4th of November, prepare to be transported to the world of Mai Tais and tan lines as 2025’s ABH Melbourne Cup Day extravaganza turns up the heat with it’s Hawaiian Style loo ow bright and early from 10am onwards.

Attendees will be treated to some classic old time Rock n Roll and a jampacked entertainment lineup featuring two sensational tribute acts to have the entire venue groovin’ well and truly into the night.

First up is the Grease performance to get the party started then after the race Elvis will perform to finish the day.

The Grease Tribute Show, invites guests to sing and dance along to classics like Summer Nights, Greased Lightnin’, and You’re the One That I Want with an interactive twist!

Elvis Forever performed by Damian Mullin is a world-class, award-winning performance that captures the glitz, glamour and timeless energy of The King himself.

Damian’s captivating tribute performance has earned him plenty of praise, and after winning the Surfers Paradise 2012 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist semifinal award, his career skyrocketed, leading him to become one of the most in demand Elvis Presley tribute acts today! With the moves, the look, and the unparallel vibes on par with the infamous artist, Damian will have audiences dancing the day away to fan favourites like Burning Love, Can’t Help Falling in Love, Jailhouse Rock, Don’t Be Cruel, You’re the Devil in Disguise and many more!

The hotel’s famous all-you-can-eat Seafood and BBQ Buffet will serve up fresh seafood, smoked meats, salads and desserts, accompanied by a three-hour drinks package from 10am right through until 1pm. Racegoers won’t miss a moment of the action, with coverage live and loud on the venue’s big screens, including the region’s largest sports screen, stretching nine metres wide.

The day will also feature Fashions on the Field, sweeps, spot prizes, a free raffle, and TAB facilities opening from 8am with the courtesy bus set to operate from 9am.

Tickets are $169 per person (plus booking fee) and available now online at www.airliebeachhotel.com.au/melbourne-cup.

Guests are encouraged to dress to impress with a tropical twist for this 18+ event and indulge in an unforgettable Melbourne Cup celebration!

WHAT: Melbourne Cup Day ft Grease Tribute and Elvis Tribute
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Tuesday 4 November (10am - 6pm)
TICKETS: Available via Oztix

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The Whitsundays’ tourism industry sparkled on Saturday, 18 October, as the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards took centre stage at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre. With a refreshed format aligned to the Best of Queensland Experience Program (BOQEP), this year’s awards recognised 93 outstanding finalists across 14 categories.

From reef adventures and luxury stays to land tours and fine dining, the night showcased the incredible diversity of the region. A total of 123 local operators achieved BOQ recognition, reinforcing the Whitsundays’ status as a world-class destination on the global stage.

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Julie Telford, President of the Tourism Whitsundays Board, Raylene Willcox, winner of the Bob Porter Award Kev Collins, Katelyn Collins, Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox, Mayor Ry Collins and Mel Collins. Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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The Whitsundays shone brightly over the weekend as the region’s leading tourism operators were celebrated at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, held on Saturday, 18 October at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

This year introduced a refreshed awards format aligned with the Best of Queensland Experience Program (BOQEP), recognising businesses based on real results and customer feedback rather than submissions.

To qualify, operators were required to hold an Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) listing and meet strict benchmarks across customer satisfaction, digital presence, accreditation and industry engagement.
 
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins praised the finalists and winners as the driving force behind the region’s continued success.

“Congratulations to all the winners and finalists,” Mayor Collins said. “You are the face of the Whitsundays and the reason our region continues to shine on the world stage.”

He emphasised the power of local storytelling and hospitality, saying, “Every experience, every smile and every story shared by our operators helps showcase what makes this place so special — our people, our pride and our world-class hospitality.”

Tourism Whitsundays Chair Julie Telford also congratulated the nominees, noting the dedication that underpins the region’s success.

“It is a privilege to be among such a passionate, dedicated, and hardworking community that lives and breathes tourism every day,” she said.

“On behalf of the board, thank you for making the night a success and for your ongoing dedication to ensuring the Whitsundays remains a world-class, premier destination.”

The evening also served as a time of reflection and anticipation, according to Tourism Whitsundays CEO Tim Booth.

“The annual Whitsunday Tourism Awards give our industry the chance to come together and celebrate everything we’ve achieved,” Booth said.

“It’s a highlight of the year for our organisation — a night to reflect on our collective success, look forward to the great things ahead, and express our gratitude to all of our incredible finalists and winners who continue to make the Whitsundays shine.”

Full list of 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Award Winners

Attractions
GOLD: Coral Sea Marina
SILVER: Shute Harbour Marine Terminal
BRONZE: The Big Mango
Restaurants and Catering
GOLD: Eastwoods Dining
SILVER: Whisper Restaurant and Gin Bar
BRONZE: The Garden Bar
Best Marketing
GOLD: Ocean Rafting
3–3.5 Star Accommodation
GOLD: Magnums Unique Accommodation Airlie Beach
SILVER: Shingley Beach Resort
BRONZE: Nomads Airlie Beach
4–4.5 Star Accommodation
GOLD: Mirage Whitsundays
SILVER: Coral Sea Resort
BRONZE: Mantra Club Croc
5-Star Accommodation
GOLD: InterContinental Hayman Great Barrier Reef
Self-Contained Accommodation
GOLD: Peninsula Airlie Beach
SILVER: The Boathouse Apartments
BRONZE: Whitsunday Apartments Hamilton Island
Caravan and Holiday Parks
GOLD: BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort
SILVER: Queens Beach Tourist Village
BRONZE: NRMA Bowen Beachfront Holiday Park

SILVER: Elysian Retreat
BRONZE: Cruise Whitsundays – Reefsleep
Transport
GOLD: Heart of Reef Shuttles
SILVER: Cruise Whitsundays
BRONZE: Heart of Reef Car Rentals
Overnight Crewed Sailing
GOLD: Wings Sailing Charters
SILVER: True Blue Sailing
BRONZE: OzSail
Bareboating
GOLD: Portland Roads – Sailing the Whitsundays
SILVER: Whitsunday Escape
BRONZE: Cumberland Charter Yachts
Day Tours – Land
GOLD: Driftwood Tours
SILVER: Whitsunday Segway Tours
BRONZE: Falls to Paradise – Red Cat Adventures
Day Tours – Water
GOLD: Whitsunday Jetski Tours
SILVER: Red Cat Adventures
BRONZE: SeaLink Whitsundays
Bob Porter Award for Outstanding Service
Kevin Collins

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A standing ovation greeted local tourism stalwart Kev Collins on Saturday night as he took to the stage to accept the Bob Porter Award for Outstanding Service at the 2025 Whitsunday Tourism Awards.
With over four decades of dedication to the region’s tourism industry, Collins—owner of D’Vine Catering & Events—was recognised for his enduring service, unwavering passion, and significant contribution to shaping the Whitsundays into one of Australia’s most iconic destinations.
“It has taken me over 40 years to get here, so I hope you can indulge me for a few minutes,” said Kev on the night.
“In the glory days of the island resorts, I worked on South Molle and Hook Island for Ansett—ultimately as General Manager. Those really were the days: busy, glamorous, chaotic, and full of character.”
“My son Phil, who’s now 38, was actually born on the island. Truth be told, he was conceived on Planton Island, just behind the treeline during a cheeky little tryst in the spring of 1985. God, we had some fun, and we have some stories.”
Kev left the islands and moved to Airlie in 1997 to start his mainland chapter as a well-respected local employer and leader within the industry.
“This industry has given me a life, not just a living. I owe so much to the people I’ve worked for, those I’ve worked alongside, the guests I’ve had the privilege to serve—and this community that’s supported me through the good times, the tough times, and yes, even through the cyclones and the fire.”
“I’ve watched Airlie Beach grow from a sleepy whistle-stop into a powerhouse destination. And while us ‘old buggers’ might reminisce about the good old days—no traffic lights, shutting down for two months in the wet, no parking tickets, and Muddy Bay where the Port of Airlie now sits—the truth is, we’re better now.”
“We’re wiser now. We are greener now, and more determined than ever to protect what makes this place so special.”
Kev reminisced about the times of midnight barges and backhoes taking sand from Whitehaven to resort beaches, food scraps and garbage tossed at sea, unregulated runoff.
“Guests were even taken reef-walking at low tide—and yes, even shell and coral collecting,” he joked.
“We’re better than that now. We treat this place with the reverence it deserves.”
“I arrived here a young man, and this industry has kept me young—full of new ideas, fresh opportunities, and the privilege of showcasing our special place to the world. And every time I think I’m done, I get another flash of inspiration and retirement goes out the window again!”
“We are no longer a stepping stone to somewhere else—we are the Whitsundays, and Airlie Beach stands in nobody’s shadow.”
“Tonight, I feel humbled, a little overwhelmed, and eternally grateful that I’ve been able to make this place my home.”
“I accept this not just for myself, but for all of us who’ve given our hearts, our time, and sometimes even our sanity to serving customers and delivering on the vision the great builders had when the Whitsunday tourism industry kicked off. I accept this for the chefs and the dishies, the barmen, the waitstaff and housekeepers, the bus drivers, the skippers, the boat crew and the retail staff.”
“There are three moments of my life I feel most proud of: the birth of my children, when Kate said ‘I do’… and this.”

Photo credit: R Jean Photography

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The Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre have excitingly unveiled a new initiative titled, Connecting Community Through Art to foster creativity and wellbeing among participants.

Since 1976, the ageing and disability activities centre has provided vital support and engaging programs for the Whitsunday Shire, and Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre’s Chief Executive, Jayne Milne hopes this new community development project will continue enriching the lives of locals.

“The artwork created by our participants at the Centre will be collectively donated to multiple organisations around the region,” said Jayne.

“We hope these donations will not only raise awareness of the services we offer but also build a stronger sense of community through creativity.”

As part of the initiative, the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre have made donations of artwork to several local organisations like an environmental wildlife group and the Whitsunday Regional Council Proserpine Library.

One of the programs’ recent creations, “Aqua”, made its debut at the beloved Great Barrier Reef Festival last August, and then went on to turn heads and attract waves of attention at local salons, store windows and now at Proserpine’s Whitsunday Bakery.

“Our aim is to bring joy to the organisations receiving the artwork while simultaneously offering our participants a meaningful sense of purpose and connection.”

To learn more about the Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre’s new program email Jayne at info@wlacproserpine.com.au or visit www.wlacproserpine.com.au.

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Whitsunday Leisure Activity Centre’s Art Therapy Team's "Aqua" was recently debuted as part of the Connecting Community Through Art initiative (Photo Supplied)
2. 6 of these vases will be donated to local schools as part of the Connecting Community Through Art initiative (Photo Supplied)

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Monique van Tulder’s bestselling book may have started at her kitchen bench in Shute Harbour, but today, it’s putting the Whitsundays on the national stage.

“I wrote the first draft at the kitchen bench in Shute Harbour,” said Monique.

“And now I’m on TV talking about Grown Up’s Gap Years, travel, and the region that opens my book’s first chapter.”

Monique’s tourism roots in the region stretch back to 1988, when she began her career as Marketing Assistant at Whitsunday Rent A Yacht, following in the footsteps of her mother, Connie, who brought Ray White to the area a year earlier. Her career since has spanned major hotel groups, airlines, destination marketing campaigns, and international events, including program delivery for the Sydney 2000 Olympics and brand strategy for Air New Zealand and InterContinental Hotels.

Through her current venture, Grown Up Guidebooks, Monique has built a national platform combining podcasting, travel editorial, and storytelling.

“These aren’t just trends – they’re transforming how we travel, age, and connect,” she added.

“Working with Monique to edit her book and bring it to life was a fantastic experience,” said Melinda Louise Hutchings, professional editor and owner of FIT HIIT Pilates.

“Monique has that rare blend of warmth, grounded wit, and sharp strategic insight. She’s deeply researched, genuinely connected to the region, and knows how to translate trends into action.”

For Monique, it’s a full-circle moment. “I came here as a young woman starting my career. To return now, with national visibility and a platform I’ve built, and to offer that back to the region – it feels purposeful.”

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Monique van Tulder’s bestselling book is now putting the Whitsundays on the national stage (Photo Supplied)

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Amped Up Youth Music Initiative is a community-led program with a clear purpose—empowering young people through music and performance.

Operating across the Whitsundays, Amped Up! creates opportunities for youth aged 5 to 21 to build confidence, showcase their abilities, and connect with others in a safe and encouraging space.

Driven by a passion for youth wellbeing and suicide prevention, the program is much more than a performance outlet. It represents a movement that values creativity, resilience, and human connection.

Through workshops, mentoring, and live events, young people are supported to express themselves, grow, and shine on stage.

Last Saturday Amped Up was held at Bowen's Soundshell and the atmosphere was full of love and support.

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Barb Hill and Lela Idagi

Kymbellie Johnston, Geraldine Watego and Micheal Castle

Sugar and Spice with Barb Hill

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The Whitsundays arts community is set to welcome internationally acclaimed sculptor Peter Syndicas as part of the 2025 Artist in Residence (AIR) program, an initiative led by ARI Whitsundays in collaboration with the Whitsundays Arts Festival.

Syndicas, known for his innovative and large-scale works, will spend time immersed in the Whitsundays’ cultural and natural landscape, drawing inspiration from the region’s stunning environment to create new art. His most recent piece, the striking 11-metre-long Celestial Lifeform, is currently on display in Adelaide’s new luxury shopping centre, Burnside Village.

As part of the residency, a Community Artist Forum and Arts Workshop will be held at the Gloucester Sports and Recreation Centre in Hydeaway Bay on Saturday, 27 September, from 9:30am to 12:30pm. Local artists and art lovers will have the opportunity to join Syndicas in discussions and hands-on activities exploring the creative process, the connection between art and the environment, and strategies for engaging with public art.

“We are excited to bring together artists from across the region for this forum and workshop,” said Jess Begun, Director, Whitsundays Arts Festival.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity to foster creative dialogue and share the ways in which art can be a bridge between people and place. I look forward to connecting with the Whitsundays community and exploring new ways to collaborate.”

Mary Ann Santin, creator and coordinator of ARI Whitsundays, said the program marks a significant milestone for the local arts scene.

“We are delighted to welcome Peter Syndicas as our 2025 Artist in Residence. His commitment to pushing boundaries and his innovative approach to visual art align perfectly with the ARI Whitsundays’ mission to support and nurture artistic talent. This is an exciting moment for both the artist and the Whitsundays’ visual arts community.”

The Artist in Residence program is designed to foster creativity, cultural exchange, and artistic development in the region, with a strong focus on community engagement and legacy building.

For more information or to secure tickets for the upcoming forum and workshop, visit www.whitsundaysartsfestival.org.

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Peter Syndicas with his latest sculpture, the 11-metre-long Celestial Lifeform in Adelaide’s new Luxury Shopping Centre, Burnside Village (Photo Supplied)

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Friday 26 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dallas Steele (from 8pm)
KC's: Pheonix Revival (from 8pm)

Saturday 27 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Soul Cutz (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Shae (1pm - 5pm)
KC's: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

Sunday 28 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Soul Cutz (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dallas Steele (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Loui Battour (Pluto Tango) (1pm - 5pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Monday 29 September
KC's: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Tuesday 30 September
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Thursday 2 October
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)

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September

26 Shrek followed by Shrek 2, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Proserpine Community Autumn Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

30 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

October

1 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

3 Rugby Viking Cup, Whitsunday Sportspark, 12pm - 8pm

5 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

6 King’s Birthday

7 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

8 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

10 Minions Rise of Gru, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

12 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

14 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

15 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

16 Morning Melodies - Wonder, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11:00am

18 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, 5:30pm - late

19 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

21 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

23 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

24 Halloween Special: Hotel Transylvania, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

25 Life Publishing Group: Enchanted Garden Fundraiser, Elementa, 5.30pm-11pm, $330

26 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

29 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

November

2 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

5 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

7 Rango followed by Drop Dead Fred, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

9 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

11 Remembrance Day

11 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

12 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

16 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

20 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

21 Babe, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

23 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

25 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

25 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

26 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

30 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

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The Spring school holidays have rolled around across the state, and the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) has put together a stellar line up of awesome movie screenings to keep your children busy, giggling and engaged right up until Monday the 6th of October! From tots to teens, there’s something for everyone…

Kangaroo Sensory Movie Session

The lights will be dimmed, the volume will be dropped, and students will have the freedom to move about to their hearts content at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre’s Kangaroo Sensory Movie Session on Friday the 27th of September from 11am to 12:45pm! Bring along your cushions to enjoy a stress-free heart-warming family comedy about ex TV personality, Chris Masterman who becomes stranded in an Outback town outside Alice Springs. Tickets to the screening can be purchased online at www.proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au/events.

The Smurfs Movie Sessions

Who doesn’t love The Smurfs?! When Papa Smurf is mysteriously taken by evil wizards, Razamel and Gargamel, Smurfette leads the Smurfs on a mission into the real world to save him. With the help of new friends, the Smurfs must discover what defines their destiny to save the universe! The PEC will be hosting a series of movie screenings of The Smurfs at 6pm on Thursday the 2nd of October, 11am on Friday the 3rd of October, 2pm on Sunday the 5th of October and 11am on Monday the 6th of October. To purchase your tickets for each of the screenings, visit www.proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au/events.

Gabby’s Dollhouse Movie Sessions

Gear up for a road trip to remember with Gabby and Grandma Gigi at the PEC’s Gabby’s Dollhouse Movie Sessions! The lovable pairs journey takes an unexpected turn when Gabby’s prized dollhouse ends up with eccentric cat lady Vera causing Gabby to embark on an adventure to reunite the Gabby Cats and retrieve her beloved dollhouse before it’s too late! If one screening wasn’t enough, you’re in luck because the PEC will host several kicking off at 11am on Thursday the 2nd of October. Gabby’s Dollhouse will also be shown at 2pm on Friday the 3rd of October, 11am on Sunday the 5th of October (Sensory Session) and finally at 2pm on Monday the 6th of October. Tickets to each of the screenings can be purchased online at www.proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au/events.

Come one, come all these school holidays to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre to enjoy the magic of the movies and indulge in captivating cinema. With a three course cinematic meal on offer, why not taste test them all?! For more information visit www.proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au/events.

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Airlie Beach is set to come alive with the sounds, sights, and flavours of Germany when the Airlie Beach Hotel hosts its much-anticipated Oktoberfest celebrations on Friday 10 and Saturday 11 October. Leading the festivities is the energetic Oompah Loompah Band, known nationwide for their unforgettable mix of Aussie rock and traditional German music.

Pub-goers can expect a lively mash-up of hits like 500 Miles, Billie Jean, Bohemian Rhapsody, and the crowd favourite Livin’ on a Prayer, blended with classic German tunes guaranteed to have your Trachten shoes tapping. From the first note, the Oompah Loompah Band’s unstoppable energy transforms every performance into an interactive celebration. Whether they are on stage or mingling through the crowd, everyone is invited to dance, sing, and raise their steins in true Oktoberfest style.

The band’s reputation precedes them, having headlined some of the biggest Oktoberfest events across the country. Now it’s Airlie Beach’s turn to experience their high-energy show, complete with authentic German food specials, traditional games, and beers served in litre steins.

While the evening events on Friday and Saturday celebrate all things German, the festivities are continued all day. In the afternoons be transported across the globe to Manchester in the UK as NOASIS takes to the stage, bringing the iconic music of Oasis to the heart of the Whitsundays.

With two full days of music, games, and German-inspired fun, the Airlie Beach Hotel promises an Oktoberfest experience that locals and visitors alike won’t soon forget. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of German traditions, an Aussie rock enthusiast, or just in it for the food and fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

WHAT: Oktoberfest
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Friday 10 October and Saturday 11 October (7pm – 10pm)

Pretzel Eating Showdown Promises Fun And Competition At Oktoberfest

Airlie Beach Hotels’ Oktoberfest is heating up with a mouth-watering Pretzel Eating Competition that promises plenty of laughs, cheers, and delicious bites. Contestants will take on the challenge of eating two freshly baked, golden-brown pretzels straight from the hotel kitchen.

The competition is about more than just speed; it’s about embracing the festive spirit of Oktoberfest. The fastest eaters will be rewarded handsomely with vouchers : $100 for first place, $50 for second, and $25 for third. And that’s not all—every participant will leave with a traditional Bavarian felt hat and a souvenir stein glass as a memento of the fun.

Whether you’re taking part or cheering on your friends, the event is designed to create memories and laughter for everyone.

Prost to full stomachs, friendly rivalry, and a true taste of Bavarian tradition!

EVENT: Pretzel Eating Competition
WHEN: Friday 10 October and Saturday 11 October (at 7:30pm)
HOW TO ENTER: Email events@airliebeachhotel.com.au with your details including contact number and a recent photo. Or see bar staff on the day.

Test Your Strength At The Stein Holding Challenge

Do you have the strength and endurance to be crowned the ultimate Stein Holding Champion at Airlie Beach Hotels’ Oktoberfest?

The Masskrugstemmen (Mahss-kroog-stem-men) aka Stein holding competition, a beloved Bavarian tradition, is all about holding a full one-litre stein of beer at arm’s length for as long as possible. The last competitor standing is declared the winner.

Heats will be held separately for men and women, ensuring a fair and exciting contest for all. First-place winners will take home $100 vouchers, while every participant receives a Free Souvenir Stein. Beyond the prizes, it’s a test of stamina, determination, and focus—a fun spectacle for competitors and spectators alike.

Whether you’re entering or watching, prepare for a mix of tension, excitement, and good old Oktoberfest cheer. Can you hold your stein longer than everyone else?

EVENT: Stein Holding Championships
WHEN: Friday 10 October and  Saturday 11 October (at 8:40pm)
HOW TO ENTER: Email events@airliebeachhotel.com.au with your details including contact number and a recent photo. Or see bar staff on the day.

Spice Lovers Take Note: Chilli Eating Challenge At Oktoberfest

Airlie Beach Hotel is turning up the heat this Oktoberfest with a Chilli Eating Challenge that will test the bravery and taste buds of all willing participants.

Competitors will be racing to finish a chilli burrito and one fresh chilli, all under strict rules: no drinks, no napkins, no standing, and no vomiting. Even reaching for the cup of milk in front of you results in automatic disqualification.

The challenge promises a mix of fun, competition, and pure spice-induced drama. The rewards are equally enticing: $100 voucher for first place, plus trophies and vouchers for other winners. Every contestant also receives a sombrero and moustache as a playful memento of their fiery feat. Entries open from 12 noon on Saturday, and bar staff will be on hand to register participants and explain the rules.

This contest is a highlight of Oktoberfest for both participants and spectators, creating an atmosphere of excitement, cheers, and a touch of mischief. Only the bravest will survive the spice and earn the title of Chilli Champion!

EVENT: Chilli Eating Competition
WHEN: Saturday 11 October (at 4pm)
HOW TO ENTER: Email events@airliebeachhotel.com.au with your details including contact number and a recent photo. Or see bar staff on the day.

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Friday 19 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Ash Smith (from 8pm)
KC's: Corey Harris (from 8pm)

Saturday 20 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: INXS Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Disco Dave (1pm - 5pm)
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Sunday 21 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: INXS Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Nick De Gregorio (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Paul Berger (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Simon Briley (1pm - 5pm)
KC's: Billy Vincent (from 8pm)

Monday 22 September
KC's: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Tuesday 23 September
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Wednesday 24 September
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Thursday 25 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Pheonix Revival (from 8pm)

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September

20 & 21 Paul Bowman Challenge, Proserpine Junior Sporting Complex, from 7.30am

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Shrek followed by Shrek 2, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Proserpine Community Autumn Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

30 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

October

1 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

3 Rugby Viking Cup, Whitsunday Sportspark, 12pm - 8pm

5 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

6 King’s Birthday

7 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

8 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

10 Minions Rise of Gru, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

12 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

14 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

15 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

16 Morning Melodies - Wonder, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11:00am

18 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, 5:30pm - late

19 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

21 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

23 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

24 Halloween Special: Hotel Transylvania, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

25 Life Publishing Group: Enchanted Garden Fundraiser, Elementa, 5.30pm-11pm, $330

26 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

29 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

November

2 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

4 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

5 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

7 Rango followed by Drop Dead Fred, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

9 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

11 Remembrance Day

11 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

12 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

16 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

20 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

21 Babe, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

23 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

25 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

25 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

26 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

30 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

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The unmistakable sound of AC/DC will once again thunder through the Airlie Beach Hotel when long-running tribute act takes the stage for a high-energy afternoon of rock and roll.

The Sydney-based band has been performing its AC/DC tribute show for 20 years, bringing classic anthems to audiences across Australia. For frontman Michael Ward, the love of music is simply “in his DNA.”

“I’m 55 now and I’ve been doing it since I was 12 years old, in various bands and multiple bands at one time too!” he said.

“The rhythm guitarist in the band is the same - we've both grown up with a love of music. It’s kind of what we do.”

Michael explained that while he balances music with a day job these days, his passion for performing has never dimmed.

The show has become a fan favourite at the Airlie Beach Hotel, where the group has performed about half a dozen times in recent years. Michael said the venue’s lively atmosphere makes it one of their top stops.

“It’s fantastic, it’s one of our favourite venues,” he said.

“It always attracts a great audience, and with the afternoon shows, there is a really good vibe and everyone’s in high spirits.”

Crowds can expect two-and-a-half hours of straight-up rock’n’roll, featuring all the AC/DC classics, including Highway to Hell, Back in Black, It’s a Long Way to the Top and High Voltage.

“We try and get this show as close to what it would be like going to an AC DC concert,” Michael said.

“From the very start, we're into it. We're just banging them out!”

Audience participation is all part of the fun, with band members often joining the crowd mid-song. “We get our guitarist and singer out there, and even get the audience to sing along to a couple of songs,” Michael said.

After two decades of delivering AC/DC’s timeless hits, Michael said the joy comes from the crowd’s reaction. “Every show we do, we seem to have a full audience, and we always have a great time.”

The AC/DC tribute show returns to the Airlie Beach Hotel this weekend, promising another electrifying performance that’s sure to have the crowd on their feet.

WHAT: Dirty Deeds AC/DC Tribute
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 4 October & Sunday 5 October (2pm - 5.30pm)

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On Friday evening the Whitsunday Sailing Club hosted the Whitsundays Writers Festival annual event and competition, Love Letter to Queensland.

The evening began with Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor opening the event and announcing the Love Letter to Queensland Community writing competition.

The Adult Section prize was awarded to Delila Bevan Zavadsky of Brinsmead, near Cairns, for her work title ‘Confessions to Queensland’. She received a two-night ocean view stay with transfers at Daydream Island, valued at $1,000.

In the Under 12 category, Taleah Atkins of Edens Landing took out the top prize for her writing titled ‘3 Month Caravan Trip’, she won a Street Library from Street Library Australia along with a starter book pack from Kitten Vintage Mackay, valued at $350.

Also on the night, the prestigious Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards, Gloria Burley Unpublished Manuscript Award was announced by Jess Begun.

First prize winner was Paul Garrety for his work ‘Before Summer Comes’, he won $2500 cash prize sponsored by Roderick Centre for Australian Literature and Creative Writing at James Cook University. Jess Begun read out the beginning of the book, which left audience members on the edge of their seat.

President of the Whitsundays Writers Festival Karen Jacobsen said experiences like these are highly important and should not be forgotten.

“I would like to say that sometimes we may forget the power of a group of people coming together and sharing an experience, like leading authors reading their work and sharing about their creative process,” she said.

“There were many moments where you could hear a pin drop in the room, and some of our speakers were moved to tears, as were the audience members.

“This is one of the signs that we had a really special and effective event.”

Anita Heiss conducted a From the Heart keynote address, and Karen Jacobsen jumped on stage to talk with Gold Walkley Award-winning journalist Hedley Thomas, Queensland Literary Award winner Steve MinOn, prize-winning novelist and journalist Matthew Condon OAM.

All three speakers grabbed the attention of everybody in the room, Hedley Thomas discussed his true crime journalism, focusing on unsolved murders of Australian women. He discussed his podcast titled  ‘The Teacher's Pet,’ where Chris Dawson was investigated for the murder of his wife in 1983. His podcast lead to Dawson's conviction after 40 years.

Matthew Condon discussed his extensive work on a trilogy of books about Commissioner Terry Lewis. Initially, Condon aimed to write a single book but expanded it to a trilogy as the scope of the project grew.

Steve MinOn discussed his latest novel which explores migrant stories and family dynamics through a fictional narrative. The novel, set in North Queensland, features a protagonist who is a dead man walking from Brisbane to Innisfail, reflecting on his life and family history.

All authors added something unique to the talking panel and audience members were left hungry for more.

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Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor, President of the Whitsundays Writers Festival Karen Jacobsen, Steve MinOn, Matthew Condon OAM, Dr Anita Heiss, and Hedley Thomas

Writers / Journalist / Author panel at the Love Letter to Queensland

President of the Whitsundays Writers Festival Karen Jacobsen

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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September

12 & 13 White on Whitehaven

12 Whitsunday Writers Festival Love Letter to Queensland, Whitsunday Sailing Club, at 6pm

12 Kung Fu Panda 4, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

13 Community Carnival, Mullers Lagoon in Bowen, 9am-12pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

16 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

16 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

17 Australian Citizenship Day

17 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

18 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Shrek followed by Shrek 2, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Proserpine Community Autumn Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

30 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

October

1 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

3 Rugby Viking Cup, Whitsunday Sportspark, 12pm - 8pm

5 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

6 King’s Birthday

7 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

8 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

10 Minions Rise of Gru, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

12 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

14 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

15 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

16 Morning Melodies - Wonder, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11:00am

18 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, 5:30pm - late

19 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

21 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

23 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

24 Halloween Special: Hotel Transylvania, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

25 Life Publishing Group: Enchanted Garden Fundraiser, Elementa, 5.30pm-11pm, $330

26 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

29 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

November

2 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

4 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

5 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

7 Rango followed by Drop Dead Fred, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

9 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

11 Remembrance Day

11 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

12 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

16 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

20 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

21 Babe, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

23 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

25 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

25 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

26 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

30 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

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Friday 12 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jessica Cash (from 8pm)
KC's: Jason Bull (from 8pm)

Saturday 13 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: ABBA Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: DJ Shae (1pm - 5pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Sunday 14 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: ABBA Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jessica Cash (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Simon Briley (1pm - 5pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Monday 15 September
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Tuesday 16 September
KC's: Tim Hibberd (from 8pm)

Wednesday 17 September
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Thursday 18 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Tim Hibberd (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Jason Bull (from 8pm)

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There’s a new name dazzling stages, and he’s barely tall enough to see over the dining table. Meet Sisqó Tan, the three-year-old phenomenon whose star power is outshining performers three, four, even five times his age.

With a cheeky grin, unstoppable energy, and moves that could make Bruno Mars blush, Sisqó isn’t just the talk of the playground, he’s a megastar in the making

While some toddlers are content stacking blocks, Sisqó was stacking up fans. Since he was just two months old, he’s been immersed in the vibrant world of Eat Street, surrounded by music, lights, and performers.

His mum Collette Tan said that many have been saying “He’s grown up with rhythm in his veins and it shows,” and that he “absorbs the magic of the stage like second nature.”

“Whether it’s clapping along to a beat, dancing with fearless enthusiasm, or charming an audience with his cheeky grin, Sisqó commands attention without even trying. He doesn’t just participate in the fun; he creates it,” she added.

“For those who’ve watched him grow, it’s clear that his confidence and charisma are rare for someone so young.”

At Eat Street, Sisqó isn’t just a familiar face, he’s become family. Locals have watched him take his very first steps in the spotlight and celebrated every leap in confidence.

He’s become a reminder of how creativity and community spirit can shape something extraordinary.

Now, the stage is set for Sisqó’s biggest gig yet: two live performances at the Airlie Beach Hotel on 27 and 28 September. Will he sing? Will he dance? Will he demand a mid-set nap and a round of apple juice served at exactly 12 degrees? No one knows for sure. What’s guaranteed, though, is that he’ll light up the stage in true superstar fashion.

When Sisqó arrives in Airlie Beach he’ll be performing alongside an Airlie Beach Hotel icon, SoulCutz.

SoulCutz deliver entertainment for both the young and the young at heart, with a range that spans four decades and a remarkable ability to channel everyone from Shaggy to The Bee Gees.

They also produce outstanding dance moves that mimic Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston and Elvis Presley to name a few.

WHAT: SoulCutz ft Sisqó Tan
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 27 September 7pm - 10pm & Sunday 28 September 2pm – 5.30pm

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More than 220 bikes and 80 cars roared into action on the (mostly) dry riverbed of the Don River last weekend for the 2025 Custom Lithium Don River Dash.

After two days of fierce competition, Clayton Chapman and navigator Adam McGuire claimed top honours in the car category, while Far North Queensland rider Ivan Long took victory in the bikes after sitting out the 2024 event. Both were crowned 2025 Kings of the River.

The title of Queen of the River – Bikes went to Georgia Hanrahan, who secured the crown despite rolling into the pits on the final lap with a flat front tyre.

“I love this event and it just gets better every year,” Hanrahan said.

Burdekin Offroaders president Michael Marson said he was proud of how the weekend unfolded.

“2025 was one of the most challenging years we’ve had in terms of track preparation,” he said.

“Managing the water still in the river after a wet year proved difficult, but we achieved a good track with intense work from our volunteers and club members over several weeks.”

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the economic impact of the event was huge.

“It's generating over $7 million into the local economy and that's not just in the event taking place itself, but it's people coming to this region, spending time in cafes, restaurants, accommodation and enjoying their stay while they're in the in the Whitsunday region,” said Mayor Collins.

“It's proven to be a fantastic event that we look forward to on the calendar each year.”
Mayor Collins also said the Don River Dash is an excellent example of a new event that has solidified itself as a recurring fixture.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy, said the Don River Dash was a fantastic event for Bowen and the entire Whitsunday region.

“We know our visitor numbers at the Bowen Visitor Information increase before, during and after the Dash.

“Many competitors, their support crews and their families come before the event and stay for a few days later to explore the region.

Leanne congratulated the organisers and said the Don River Dash was growing in popularity every year and provided a significant economic boost to the entire region.

With record competitor numbers, packed spectator areas and strong community support, the 2025 Custom Lithium Don River Dash has once again proven itself as a hallmark event for the Whitsundays.

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Photo credit: Tony Hodgkiss

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Announcing Main Stage Daily Lineups & 2 Day Ticket Options!

The countdown is on as the Airlie Beach Festival of Music unveils its daily main stage lineups.

"We’ve always been about creating a full-sensory experience, and now, it’s time for a taste of what each day will bring," shared a spokesperson.

"To make your Festival experience even more flexible, we are thrilled to announce brand-new 2-day ticket options, catering to every kind of festival-goer. Whether you’re joining us for the full three-day extravaganza (plus the welcome and after party)  or just a slice of the action, your Airlie Beach Festival of Music escape is almost here."

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend packed with Australian rock royalty, blues legends, and the finest emerging talent at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

The festivities begin early on Thursday night with the Welcome Party at Magnums, showcasing an all-female lineup including TRILLA, Lucy Gallant, Piper Butcher, and the high-energy Katie Richards and Viva Band.

On Friday, audiences will be treated to the thrilling Passport to Airlie finals, followed by performances from the iconic Pete Murray and legendary rockers The Screaming Jets. The night also features the incredible talent of 2024 Passport to Airlie winner Tom Neilson.

The momentum continues into Saturday, featuring performances from Australian music powerhouses Diesel, Choirboys, and Bachelor Girl, along with the unique sound of Tex Perkins & Matt Walker.

The energy remains high on Sunday, with the queen herself, Jessica Mauboy, lighting up the stage alongside The Black Sorrows and a stellar lineup of blues and country artists.

The celebration doesn’t stop there—Monday’s Afterparty at Northerlies keeps the good times rolling, headlined by blues virtuoso Lloyd Spiegel and more.

Recognising that every festival experience is different, the organisers have introduced new flexible ticket options alongside the full 3-day pass.

For those looking to dive into the heart of the action, the Friday & Saturday 2-day ticket, priced at $240, includes access to the full festival on both days plus entry to Thursday night’s Welcome Party.

Those wanting to end the weekend with a bang can opt for the Saturday & Sunday 2-day ticket at $260, which also includes access to the incredible Afterparty on Monday.

Of course, the ultimate music holiday is still available with the full 3-day ticket for $325, ensuring not a single beat is missed.

With the daily lineup now revealed, there’s more reason than ever to book the ultimate music getaway. Featuring world-class artists, a town-wide music takeover, and flexible ticketing options, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music promises an experience like no other.

Now is the time to plan the perfect festival escape—select the ideal ticket and get ready for the musical experience of a lifetime.

WHAT: Airlie Beach Festival of Music
WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club and venues across town
WHEN: 7-9 November

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Get ready for a splash of colour and community fun at the Coral Sea Marina annual Colour Fun Run on Saturday, 13 September, as part of Queensland Child Protection Week 2025. Organised by Whitsunday Counselling & Support (WC&S), this free, action-packed event at the Marina Gardens from 9am to 12pm promises a morning full of laughter, family activities, and vibrant festivities.

Participants can enjoy live music, face painting, a sausage sizzle, kid-friendly games, and the iconic colourful ‘fun run’ itself. The event is designed to bring the community together while promoting the vital message that every child deserves to grow up safe, supported, and loved, and that protecting children is everyone’s responsibility.

“Queensland Child Protection Week’s theme is ‘Protecting Children is Everybody’s Business,’” explains Niamh Mulvihill, Intensive Family Support Manager at WC&S. “Our goal is to involve local organisations in promoting this theme, encouraging children to recognise safe people in their lives and adults to take an active role in supporting them.”

The event will feature community organisations including the Department of Child Safety, Headspace, PCYC, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, and local Emergency Services.

“By raising awareness through events like the Colour Fun Run, the community can learn how to create safe environments for children and show support for vulnerable families,” says Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Coral Sea Marina. “We are honoured to host this event and look forward to welcoming the community for family fun, entertainment, and a great cause.”

For more information on Child Protection Week and additional resources, visit Queensland Child Protection Week.

What: Colour Fun Run
When: Saturday, 13 September, 9am–12pm
Where: Coral Sea Marina Gardens

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Friday 5 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (from 8pm)
KC's: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)

Saturday 6 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Big Stadium Rock (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Daybreak (from 8pm)
KC's: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Sunday 7 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Big Stadium Rock (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Brother Hollow (4pm - 8pm)
KC's: Billy Vincent (from 8pm)

Monday 8 September
KC's: Tim Hibberd (from 8pm)

Tuesday 9 September
KC's: Tiffany Grace (from 8pm)

Wednesday 10 September
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Thursday 11 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Jason Bull (from 8pm)

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September

5 Don River Dash 300 Day 1, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

3 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

6 Don River Dash 300 Day 2, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Father’s Day

7 Don River Dash 300 Day 3, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

9 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

10 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

11 R U OK? Day

12 & 13 White on Whitehaven

12 Whitsunday Writers Festival 12th – 14th

12 Kung Fu Panda 4, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

16 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

16 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

17 Australian Citizenship Day

17 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

18 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Shrek followed by Shrek 2, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Proserpine Community Autumn Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

30 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

October

1 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

5 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

6 King’s Birthday

7 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

8 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

10 Minions Rise of Gru, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

12 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

14 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

15 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

16 Morning Melodies - Wonder, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11:00am

18 Whitsunday Tourism Awards, 5:30pm - late

19 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

21 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

23 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

24 Halloween Special: Hotel Transylvania, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

25 Life Publishing Group: Enchanted Garden Fundraiser, Elementa, 5.30pm-11pm, $330

26 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

29 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

November

2 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

4 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

5 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

7 Rango followed by Drop Dead Fred, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

9 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

11 Remembrance Day

11 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

12 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

16 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

20 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

21 Babe, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

23 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

25 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

25 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

26 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

30 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

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Airlie Beach has become a second home for rock performer Dellacoma Rio, celebrated for his high-energy tribute shows and as the frontman for the INXS Revived band.

The acclaimed artist has developed a devoted fan base at the Airlie Beach Hotel and is once again returning on Saturday 20 September, and Sunday 21 September, from 2 pm to 5:30 pm.

The shows promises to be a powerful celebration of both Michael Hutchence and the iconic INXS catalogue but also aims to recreate the band’s legendary live energy. Fans can expect a performance full of charisma and daring stage antics. Rio’s reputation for showmanship includes running into the crowd and even singing while hanging upside down from a tree, adding unforgettable moments to each concert.

Born in the United States and raised in Tasmania, Dellacoma Rio brings a wealth of performance experience, including live theatre and television work from his university years in Los Angeles. He launched his solo rock band career in 2014 and has since released two albums, Dead Will Rise and Blood, cementing his place in the Australian rock scene. While many of his performances take place in large venues such as convention centres and concert halls, Rio has a special fondness for the Airlie Beach Hotel, calling it the only hotel he performs at.

Rio’s dedication to live music is evident in every performance, where he seeks to create high-energy, shared experiences that resonate with audiences long after the final note.

The upcoming performance is set to rock the roof off the Airlie Beach Hotel. With much loved classics, an extremely enthusiastic performer, and awesome guitar riffs, the INXS Revived performance is show that cannot be missed.

WHAT: INXS Revived
WHEN: Saturday 20 September & Sunday 21 September (2pm - 5.30pm)
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

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The past 12 months have been nothing short of remarkable for Whitsundays-based actor Jean-Pierre Yerma (JP) who has added a string of major credits to his growing career.

After years of honing his craft at NIDA and Sydney’s Actors Pulse, JP has seen his hard work pay off with back-to-back roles that highlight his versatility on screen. “It’s been incredible,” he said. “The roles coming my way recently have been doctors, fathers and witnesses—there’s definitely a theme, but each one has been rewarding in its own way.”

JP has featured in Romance in the Vineyard, which was shot in Queensland, and that connection later helped bring film crews north, with the Whitsundays becoming the backdrop for Steve Jaggi’s Love Is in the Air (2024) starring Delta Goodrem.

Although JP missed out on appearing in that production, the experience strengthened his ties to the industry and to promoting the region as a filming destination.

This year, however, JP secured one of his most significant roles yet, starring as Dr Marcus O’Brien in the upcoming film Boss Cat. Shot in the Blue Mountains, the emotional story pairs him with celebrated Australian actor Penny Downie, whose credits include The Crown and Downton Abbey. “When we did the table read, people were in tears by the end,” he said. “It’s a beautifully written story and one I’m proud to be part of.”

With momentum building, JP says the past year has been his best to date and urges other local Whitsunday residents to get out there and act.

“Stay optimistic. Work on your craft. Get your skills, learn as much as you can from teachers and those in the field. Fill up your toolbox with skills—learn accents, learn different techniques,” said JP.

“Study the great actors, watch films, study their work, their commitment to roles, and their transformations.

“Most importantly, follow your dream and passion. You’re going to get knocked down but just get up and keep going. That’s the magic—just keep going.”

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Whitsundays-based actor Jean-Pierre Yerma. Photo sourced: Online

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Friday 29 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix (from 8pm)
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Saturday 30 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Luke Combs (Tribute Show) (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: DJ Schae
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Sunday 31 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Luke Combs(Tribute Show) (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Simon Briley
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Monday 1 September
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Tuesday 2 September
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Wednesday 3 September
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Thursday 4 September
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

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August

31 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

September

2 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

2 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

5 Don River Dash 300 Day 1, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

3 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

6 Don River Dash 300 Day 2, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Father’s Day

7 Don River Dash 300 Day 3, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

9 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

10 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Cannonvale Library, from 9am

11 R U OK? Day

12 & 13 White on Whitehaven

12 Whitsunday Writers Festival 12th – 14th

12 Kung Fu Panda 4, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

16 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

16 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

17 Australian Citizenship Day

17 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

18 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Bowen Library, from 10am

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Shrek followed by Shrek 2, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Proserpine Community Autumn Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

30 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am

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Get ready to unleash your inner Dancing Queen because SOS: The Australian ABBA Tribute Show is heading back to the Airlie Beach Hotel for two spectacular free matinee performances on Saturday the 13th and Sunday the 14th of September.

From the very first note, SOS brings audiences a vibrant and nostalgic journey through ABBA’s greatest hits. With dazzling costumes, authentic choreography, and a live band that captures every iconic harmony, SOS transforms the stage into a 1970s disco dream. It’s more than just a concert—it’s an experience that has audiences singing, dancing, and laughing along from start to finish.

The tribute band features Bridie Pamment as Agnetha, Eilannin Harris-Black as Frida, Sam Bennett as Björn, and Jon Harris-Black as Benny, alongside Steve Virgona on bass and David DeBono on drums. Together, they recreate the magic of ABBA with infectious energy and undeniable talent.

But what makes SOS stand out isn’t only their faithful renditions of hits like Waterloo, Chiquitita, I Have a Dream and Mamma Mia. It’s the way they connect with the crowd.

“We love all our audience and our fans, our Chiquititas, and they are very important to us. We’re always coming off-stage and talking to them afterward," explained Sam Bennett who performs as Björn.

That connection has made SOS one of the most loved tribute acts in the country. For over 12 years, the group has taken their show nationwide, but Airlie Beach holds a special place in their hearts.

“We always love our trip to Airlie Beach itself, it’s a well-deserved break in the sunshine from the very unpredictable Melbourne weather,” said Sam.

“Everyone is always on holiday time there and it’s very easy to perform to a crowd that is there either on holiday or living that holiday lifestyle.”

The result? A performance where the line between band and audience disappears, and everyone feels part of the show. With theatre-style storytelling, electrifying dance-offs, and plenty of crowd participation, SOS guarantees an afternoon of pure joy.

“Expect to have sore feet at the end of the show because you’ll be dancing so hard! Expect to have a dance off with a stranger and expect to have a sore voice the next day because you’ve sung so much," added Sam.

So, lace up your dancing shoes, grab your friends, and get ready to relive the golden era of disco. Whether you grew up with ABBA’s music or discovered it through Mamma Mia, the magic is universal.

Don’t miss your chance to catch SOS at the Airlie Beach Hotel on the 13th and 14th of September from 2pm to 5:30pm, because when it comes to celebrating ABBA, The Winner Takes It All.

What: ‘SOS’ ABBA Tribute Show
When: 13th and 14th of September from 2pm to 5:30pm
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel

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Multi music award winner Jessica Mauboy will make her first Airlie Beach Festival of Music appearance this November.

The much-loved Australian music legend first gained recognition on Australian Idol but in an exclusive interview with Whitsunday Life Newspaper, she said performing live is her ultimate joy.

“Being able to play it live, is my ultimate favourite. So, it’s an absolute honour and opportunity to be able to do that in Airlie Beach. I'm looking forward to that,” she said.

“I love to get to know the people because that's what really makes it right, the people and obviously the energy and the spirit of the place.

“I'm looking forward to really indulging it, as much as I love performing, I really love getting to know a place.”

A Warm Whitsunday Welcome For Jessica Mauboy

Airlie Beach Festival of Music headliner Jessica Mauboy is set to bring songs from her entire discography including her first and second albums, and maybe even some hit songs from the feature film The Sapphires, plus a range of her newer music.

Her newest song ‘While I Got Time’, featured as Irene Robert's farewell on Home and Away, and Mauboy said the brief she was given from her publisher was inspiring.

“She says to me, I've got dot points that the third party have sent over and they would love you to write a song about your loved ones. what it's like if you were to venture out and leave, what would you leave behind? What kind of legacy would you like to leave behind? A song about in-depth reflection about life. And so, I did that.”

“The intentional production was very intimate and just little harmonies here and there, just to kind of hear the guitar play, the emotions of the lyrics and the voice, is what we wanted.

“I've never been a part of a project like that in my life. So this was really unexpected, but such a really warm project and sincere experience I've never been a part of.”

Jessica Mauboy is also fresh off being inducted into the National Indigenous Music Awards (NIMA) Hall of Fame.

“I think having grown up in Darwin and the Northern Territory, to receive an award in my hometown that I love so dearly, to be presented that by my own community and my elders and people who I admire in at the NIMA’s, I was really in disbelief,” she said.

“I stand with the award with pride and honour.”

Mauboy is also keen to support local initiatives like Passport to Airlie, which gives emerging musicians the chance to perform at future Airlie Beach Festival of Music events.

“Our local stages are so important, so, we need to take care of them, we need to nurture them. As much as the big stages outside are amazing. You always remember the beginning of it and I still remember my first stage,” she said.

“The one thing I would say is learn from that experience. Learn from the stages. Learn from the people who build the stages from ground, and who create the festivals and take care of them.”

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Jessica Mauboy says she is thrilled to be one of the headline acts at the upcoming Airlie Beach Festival of Music. Photos supplied

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Friday 22 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dallas Steele (from 8pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Saturday 23 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Creedence (Tribute Show) (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Bad Girl
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Sunday 24 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Creedence (Tribute Show) (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dallas Steele (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Scotty
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Monday 25 August
KC's: Corey Harris (from 8pm)

Tuesday 26 August
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Wednesday 27 August
KC's: Nick Di Gregorio (from 8pm)

Thursday 28 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Mick Woodridge (from 8pm)

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August

24 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

26 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

31 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

September

2 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

5 Don River Dash 300 Day 1, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

3 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

6 Don River Dash 300 Day 2, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Father’s Day

7 Don River Dash 300 Day 3, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

9 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

11 R U OK? Day

12 & 13 White on Whitehaven

12 Whitsunday Writers Festival 12th – 14th

12 Kung Fu Panda 4, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

16 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

17 Australian Citizenship Day

17 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Shrek followed by Shrek 2, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Proserpine Community Autumn Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

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An unparallel showcase of epic 80s and 90s rock n’ roll anthems will ignite the Airlie Beach Hotel for one weekend and one weekend only for two mighty FREE shows on Saturday the 6th and Sunday the 7th of September.

A Father’s Day special event, the powerhouse vocals of Shaleena Bain, Tara Graham and Adam Spizzo will have audiences singing along to the most nostalgic tunes from iconic artists including Guns & Roses, Whitesnake, Bon Jovi, Ozzy Osbourne, Def Leppaard, AC/DC, Aerosmith, Motley Crue, KISS and more!

Set to run from 2pm through until 5:30pm across both afternoons, the Big Stadium Rock Show exists as just one of Melanie Evans’ most successful smash hit productions and under the direction of Maureen Bowra and Tommy Hynes, audiences are sure to be in for the treat of a lifetime.

The Big Stadium Rock Show artfully recreates the iconic sounds of one of the most worshiped eras of live music to leave audiences begging for an encore after encore. Alongside the talented trio of experienced vocalists, the Airlie Beach Hotel stage will become a hive of heavy classics with the sounds of a live rock band transporting audiences to a world submerged in the theatrics of the 80s and 90s across the entire duration of the roof raising performance.

Directly from the stages of some of the nation’s biggest theatres, the Big Stadium Rock Show’s Airlie Beach Hotel debut certainly will be one for the record books and joins a long list of celebrated Wild Goat Entertainment productions. Although the production itself is yet to grace the Whitsunday shoreline, Shaleena Bain and Tara Graham are no strangers to the region and have previously rocked the house down in years gone by in both tribute shows and memorable rock performances.

Table bookings for both afternoons can be made online now at airliebeachhotel.com.au and with limited seating available, you should get in quick!

If you’re a lover of all things classic rock n’ roll, the Airlie Beach Hotel promises you’ll love the Big Stadium Rock Show!

What: Big Stadium Rock Show
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday the 6th and Sunday the 7th of September, 2pm to 5:30pm

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The Big Stadium Rock Show will ignite the Airlie Beach Hotel stage this September for a Father's Day special event! (Photo Source: Wild Goat Entertainment)

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The upcoming Flametree Gathering will feature two exciting last-minute additions to its music line-up.

Whitsunday band Flying Double Front Kick, fronted by local musician Caden McCarthy, will take the stage on Friday night.

"We’re really proud of the local talent that’s in the Whitsundays and we want to celebrate that,” organiser Bronwyn Garland said.

Also joining the program is Cairns based Bobby Longstaff, a long-time Woodford Folk Festival performer renowned for his reggae rhythms and witty, feel-good lyrics. He played at the inaugural Flametree Gathering and will return to share his upbeat style with festival-goers.

The three-day event, now in its third year, has relocated to Lake Proserpine with the support of Whitsunday Regional Council, opening up more camping and glamping options.

This year’s festival will once again raise funds for Eco Barge Clean Seas’ turtle rehabilitation centre through raffles and auctions. Over the past two years, the gathering has donated $5,000 to the cause, and organisers are calling for prize donations to help continue the effort.

A small number of market stall spaces and volunteer positions remain open. The event is also continuing its Zero Waste Management Plan, encouraging attendees to bring their own cups and plates for use at food stalls.

Bronwyn said the festival’s atmosphere is what makes it special. She explains that the inclusivity is what makes Flametree Gathering so unique.

"It's an honour to be able to put on this festival, and provide space where people connect and can feel good around other people," she added.

This project was made possible by the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund, provided through Regional Arts Australia, administered in Queensland by Flying Arts Alliance.

WHAT: Flametree Gathering
WHERE: Lake Proserpine
WHEN: 29 – 31 August

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David Flower's Flametree Gathering is coming soon. Photo supplied

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Music lovers in the Whitsundays are in for a nostalgic treat when the acclaimed international production The Simon & Garfunkel Story arrives at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Thursday, the 28th of August.

Described by none other than Art Garfunkel himself as “A Great Show”, this spectacular concert experience traces the legacy of one of music’s most beloved duos, from their humble beginnings as ‘Tom & Jerry’ in the 1950s to their iconic reunion concert in Central Park in 1981.

Having wowed audiences across over 50 countries and enjoyed a highly praised run in London’s West End, The Simon & Garfunkel Story returns to Australia in 2025 for its most extensive national tour yet, with stops at regional venues including the Proserpine Entertainment Centre and Maryborough’s Brolga Theatre the following week.

This immersive show features huge projections, rare film footage, and a full live band, bringing to life timeless hits like Mrs Robinson, The Sound of Silence, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound, Scarborough Fair and The Boxer.

The 2025 cast features American performer Israel Bloodgood as Paul Simon and Luke Hogan from the UK as Art Garfunkel, joined by a talented band including Nick Martin on bass, Harrison White on keyboards/guitar and Harry Denton on drums.

Producer, Creative Director and writer Dean Elliott said:

“We are thrilled to bring The Simon & Garfunkel Story back to Australia where the show first toured in 2016. Since then, it has grown into a truly global success.

We’re especially excited to return to our favourite Australian venues and introduce audiences to the phenomenal talents of Israel Bloodgood and Luke Hogan, who have been wowing crowds across the UK, including a sell-out performance earlier this year at The London Palladium.

The music of Simon & Garfunkel continues to transcend generations, and we can't wait to share this special experience once again with our growing legion of fans down under.”

Whether you grew up with Simon & Garfunkel or are discovering their music for the first time, this is a show not to be missed.

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August

16-23 Hamilton Island Race Week

16 Coral Sea Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival (day one)

17 Coral Sea Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival (day two)

17 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

19 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

20 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

24 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

26 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

31 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

September

2 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

5 Don River Dash 300 Day 1, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

3 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

6 Don River Dash 300 Day 2, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Father’s Day

7 Don River Dash 300 Day 3, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

9 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

11 R U OK? Day

12 & 13 White on Whitehaven

12 Whitsunday Writers Festival 12th – 14th

12 Kung Fu Panda 4, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

16 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

17 Australian Citizenship Day

17 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Shrek followed by Shrek 2, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Proserpine Community Autumn Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

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Friday 15 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jason Bull (from 8pm)
KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Saturday 16 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Eagles (Tribute Show) (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night(from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Schae
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Sunday 17 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Eagles (Tribute Show) (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jason Bull (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Kieran McCarthy
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Monday 18 August
KC's: Retro Joe (from 8pm)

Tuesday 19 August
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Wednesday 20 August
KC's: Ronny Croker (from 8pm)

Thursday 21 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Ronny Croker (from 8pm)

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Prepare for an unforgettable two days when the spectacular two-hour live performance, Hurricane: The Australian Luke Combs Tribute Show comes to town at the Airlie Beach Hotel.

Promising to be more than just a concert this tribute is a deep dive into the catalogue of one of country music's biggest stars.

This show pays homage to a man who, in a remarkably short time, has become a global country music icon.

Born and raised in North Carolina, Luke Combs left college to pursue his passion, moving to Nashville where his career exploded. He's since racked up a stunning list of accolades, including multiple CMA Entertainer of the Year awards, and has topped the charts with an impressive number of consecutive No. 1 hits world-wide.

His authentic, down-to-earth style and powerful, soulful voice have made him a favourite with fans across the globe.

The tribute show will cover a wide range of songs from all of Combs’ albums, from his most heartfelt ballads to his upbeat, Honky Tonk anthems. Expect to hear high-energy renditions of smash hits like "When It Rains It Pours," "Beautiful Crazy," "Beer Never Broke My Heart," and the recent, chart-topping cover of Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car."

The show is expertly delivered by some of Australia’s top musicians, this performance is designed to immerse you in the pure joy of live country music, and there’s no better place than the thumping Airlie Beach Hotel.

Whether you’re a long-time fan of Luke Combs who knows every lyric or are new to his sound and songs, this show promises to be a memorable experience. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the music that has defined a new era of country, from the raw emotion of his early work to the polished anthems of today.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this incredible event. Book your table now and get ready for a night of music, fun, and celebration!

WHAT: Hurricane – The Australian Luke Combs Tribute Show
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 30 August & Sunday 31 August (2pm – 5.30pm)

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Proserpine State High School’s Seagrass Theatre and Music Company present their highly anticipated ‘Musical Theatre Night’ on Friday 15th August.

The annual event allows students from Years 7-12 to showcase their singing and dancing talents on stage performing family-friendly classics from musicals such as ‘Chicago’, 'Les Miserables' and 'Annie' to name a few.

Established in 2021, the students have run many theatre seasons including one act plays, previous musical theatre evenings and the rock opera, “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat”, which won the Whitsunday Australia Day Cultural Event of the Year Award earlier this year.

The students themselves perform all roles within a theatre experience from the directorial, creative, technical, design, construction, business and promotion processes.

You may recognise some of the familiar faces on stage from the school’s musical production of ‘Newsies’ in May.

Rehearsals have been held before and after school and some lunchtimes to perfect dance routines and singing numbers.

Held in the school’s incredible Performing Arts Centre, doors will open at 6pm with the show starting at 7pm sharp.

Food and drinks will be available for purchase from the kiosk.

Tickets can be purchased at the door for $15 per adult or $10 per child or concession card holder.

For more information, please call the school’s Administration Office on 4945 0111.

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Some students involved in Proserpine State High School's Seagrass Theatre and Music Company. Photo supplied

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An Event For All-Ages

To mark the beginning of celebrations for 2025 National Skills Week, on Saturday, August 23, North Queensland Senior School and training organisation, Tec-NQ, will throw open its doors for an all-ages Open Day with a difference. With 69 trades currently identified as experiencing a national skills shortage, there is no better time to try out a trade.

Tec-NQ Chief Executive Officer Ross Jorgensen said this year’s Open Day will be an all-ages celebration of everything trade, offering something of interest for the whole family.

“Again in 2025, we’ll have a selection of industry partners displaying unique and emerging technical tools of trade. Teachers, trainers, industry partners and students will also be on hand to talk about undertaking a work-based education at Tec-NQ” he added.

There will be hands-on try-a-trade activities for all ages. Kids can rev up a big diesel motor, teens can wire a circuit board, and everyone can test their welding skills on the augmented reality simulator. Plus, engage in interactive activities and small take-home projects.

Tec-NQ is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), an independent senior secondary school and an accredited boarding school with extensive industry networks to deliver trade-based career opportunities for North Queensland students. Tec-NQ House, located in Rosslea, accommodates up to 40 male boarding students from remote and rural communities completing their schooling at Tec-NQ.

The Open Day runs from 9am – 12.30pm on Saturday 23rd August at their campus at 54 Discovery Drive in Douglas. Register for a campus tour and information session at tecnq.com.au

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The smooth sounds of timeless standards will echo through the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Thursday 14 August, as acclaimed Australian vocalist Chris Lloyds presents _Morning Melodies: For the Love of Tony & Friends, a soulful musical salute to the great Tony Bennett and other legendary crooners.

Backed by the virtuosic Jamie Rigg Band, Lloyds will take the audience on a nostalgic journey, spotlighting Bennett’s greatest hits—like I Left My Heart in San Francisco—while weaving in gems by fellow crooners that Bennett never recorded.

“I liked the idea of doing some of the songs that Tony didn’t do, that we felt he could have—just to mix it up a little,” Chris says.

Once described as “one of Australia’s most broadcast vocalists,” Chris has lent his voice to hit jingles, top session recordings, and major TV appearances, including a stint on Neighbours, all while nurturing a lifelong passion for music.

“I started singing as a choir boy,” he says.

"My grandmother was a wonderful pianist and singer of the jazz standards and the Great American Songbook, and I used to sing with her. I sang Night and Day before I probably sang Baa Baa Black Sheep.”

Lloyds delivers the show with sincerity rather than imitation. “We don’t do dress-ups,” he says.

“We have masterful musicians, and I sing the way I sing—but we're doing the songs that were hits for Bennett and the crooners that everyone recognises.”

The show begins at 11:00 AM and tickets cost $10.

WHAT: Morning Melodies - For the Love of Tony
WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
WHEN: Thursday 14 August
TICKETS: $10

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Friday 8 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Bear Brewer (from 8pm)
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Saturday 9 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Rewind 80's (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: No Scrubs DJ Night(from 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: DJ Cue
KC's: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)

Sunday 10 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Rewind 80's (2pm – 5.30pm)
Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Ash Smith
KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm)

Monday 11 August
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Tuesday 12 August
KC's: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)

Wednesday 13 August
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

Thursday 14 August
Airlie Beach Hotel: Aaron Saxon (6.30pm - 9.30pm)
KC's: Josiah (from 8pm)

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August

4 Author Talk Session by Marion Weatherburn, Bowen Library, 10:00am - 12:00pm

5 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

6 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

7-14 Airlie Beach Race Week

8 Airlie Beach Race Week Presents: Happy Feet, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

10 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

12 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

14 Morning Melodies - For the Love of Tony, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 11:00am

16-23 Hamilton Island Race Week

16 Coral Sea Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival (day one)

17 Coral Sea Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival (day two)

17 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

19 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

20 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

24 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

26 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

31 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

September

2 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

5 Don River Dash 300 Day 1, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

3 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

6 Don River Dash 300 Day 2, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Father’s Day

7 Don River Dash 300 Day 3, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm

7 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

9 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

11 R U OK? Day

12 & 13 White on Whitehaven

12 Whitsunday Writers Festival 12th – 14th

12 Kung Fu Panda 4, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

14 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

16 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm

17 Australian Citizenship Day

17 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp.

21 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

26 Shrek followed by Shrek 2, The Movie Screen at Airlie Beach Foreshore in Coconut Grove, 6:00pm

28 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am

28 Proserpine Community Autumn Markets, Proserpine State School Cyclone Shelter on Sherry Street, from 8:30am

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Fans of classic rock are in for a treat as Creedence Clearwater Survival, Australia’s premier tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival, returns to the Airlie Beach Hotel in just a few weeks.

“We play every Creedence song,” said frontman Paul Haynes, who performs under the name John Forgery.

The Melbourne-based band is known for its faithful renditions of Creedence Clearwater Revival's most beloved hits, and this performance will be no different.

“The songs will be Bad Moon Rising, Fortunate Son, Looking Out My Back Door, Cotton Fields, Green River, Jambalaya, Lodi, The Old Man Down the Road, Have You Ever Seen the Rain, Up Around the Bend, Centerfield, Sweet Hitch-Hiker, As Long as I Can See the Light, Heard It Through the Grapevine... it just goes on."

Paul embraces the role completely, from the voice to the costume.

“I dress up in the Creedence gear with the wig and the cowboy shirt. I go by the name of John Forgery instead of John Fogerty,” he said.

“I have the voice too, I don’t know why that is. I just do.”

The band was originally called The Fortunate Sons, and Paul joined as a singer before taking up guitar duties. “They said, ‘Well, can you play guitar?’ And I said, ‘Oh, can I!’ And then there was a few Fortunate Sons around, so we changed our name to Creedence Clearwater Survival, which sounded more recognisable as a band.”

Paul and the band are no strangers to the Airlie Beach stage. They visited in March and said they had an amazing time. Paul's only complaint... was the heat!

This time the band travels to the Airlie Beach Hotel in winter, and Paul is looking forward to the milder temperatures and break from the usual heat and humidity.

Paul said crowd interaction is a key part of the show. At one point, they lead the audience in a classic baseball clap before launching into the next song.

The band has been performing for over a decade and travels regularly.

“Most weekends, we play somewhere and we mainly do it because we love it.

Paul’s passion for music begun early. He said music has always been something that touched him deeply.

“Some people like cars, some people like art. I like music... it touches my soul.”

Catch Creedence Clearwater Survival live at the Airlie Beach Hotel later this month for a night of nostalgia, energy, and rock ‘n’ roll classics.

WHAT: Creedence Clearwater Survival
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 23 August & Sunday 24 August (2pm - 5.30pm)

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The Cruise Whitsundays Great Barrier Reef Festival wrapped its activity-packed three-day program on August 3, leaving attendees with a renewed appreciation for the Whitsundays' natural wonders.

From August 1–3, Airlie Beach came alive with thousands of locals and visitors embracing a program that continues to cement the festival as a cornerstone event for the region.

Despite a cold and soggy start on Friday night, fireworks lit up the sky just moments before rain set in. But the weather couldn’t dampen spirits, with thousands gathering on the Airlie Beach Foreshore to celebrate.

A major focus of the festival is community inclusivity, with involvement from arts organisations, environmental groups, schools, and local businesses. Reef education also featured strongly, with tourism operators and Master Reef Guides sharing their knowledge.

The Immerse art installation transformed the foreshore into an underwater wonderland, featuring recycled artworks from local and visiting artists. Indigenous language and marine life stories added further depth to the display.

Saturday’s Revvin' the Reef Car Show lined the Main Street with vintage and modern vehicles, while the Rotary Street Parade brought the community out in full force, all celebrating this year’s theme, Coral Kingdom.

The Ark Energy Family Fun Day provided hands-on reef education and entertainment for families, reinforcing the importance of protecting the reef.

Festival Chair Margie Murphy said the 2025 event marked a welcome revival after a tough 2024.

“The energy from both our community and visitors was amazing,” she said. “This festival truly embodies the spirit of our region.”

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The Street Parade was an extremely popular event. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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As part of this weekend’s Great Barrier Reef Festival celebrations, music lovers are in for a special treat with The Whispering Jack Show – A Tribute to John Farnham – taking the stage at The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel, on Saturday, August 2, from 2pm to 5.30pm.

Proudly presented as a festival highlight, the live tribute adds a powerful musical punch to an already action-packed weekend. As the show unfolds, festival-goers can also enjoy the spectacle of the vibrant street parade, which will pass right by the venue mid-performance, bringing the buzz of the parade and the power of Farnham’s music together in one unforgettable afternoon.

Held annually in August, the Great Barrier Reef Festival is Airlie Beach’s signature event, celebrating reef culture and tropical living. The four-day program includes everything from dazzling fireworks and reef-themed art to an eco-conscious Recyclable Regatta and plenty of family fun, all while shining a light on the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef and the local lifestyle that thrives around it.

Saturday’s performance by The Whispering Jack Show is set to be a standout moment. Hailed as Australia’s premier Farnham tribute, the high-energy production has been touring nationally for nearly two decades, captivating crowds in theatres, clubs, festivals, and aboard cruise ships.

Backed by a dynamic seven-piece band, the show delivers pitch-perfect renditions of Farnham’s biggest hits, from stirring ballads like A Touch of Paradise to anthems such as You’re the Voice, Pressure Down, and Age of Reason. Adding depth to the performance, The Book of John segment weaves storytelling into the setlist, offering insight into Farnham’s life and the legacy behind his music.

Performer Mike Vee’s uncanny vocal resemblance to Farnham has drawn praise from fans and industry insiders alike. Dannii Minogue even called his voice “the closest I’ve heard to John,” after his appearance on Australia’s Got Talent.

Whether you're a lifelong Farnham fan or simply soaking up the festival atmosphere, this is one live show you won’t want to miss. Locals and visitors alike are encouraged to arrive early, grab a spot, and enjoy an afternoon of classic Aussie rock as the spirit of the reef meets the voice of a generation.

WHAT: The Whispering Jack Show – A Tribute to John Farnham
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday, August 2 | 2pm – 5.30pm

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Young performers from a non-for-profit, grassroots music group, Amped Up, will take the stage this Saturday at the Great Barrier Reef Festival, performing from 2.30pm to 4.45pm on the Main Street Stage, just before the street parade.

Formed from the merger of Whitsundays Got Talent and the Music Evolution Project, Amped Up is a not-for-profit, community-driven initiative for young people aged 5 to 21.

“Amped Up is a grassroots, community-driven programme dedicated to empowering young people through the power of music and performance,” said organiser Barb Hill.

“It’s not a competition, it’s about having fun.”

Saturday’s performance will feature solo acts Willow, Dillon Poppi, Amaya and Meg. Followed by four youth bands, The Krusaderz, Sugar N Spice, and Aftershock.

Willow will be opening and will be performing their very own original song.

Popular local band Category Five, long-time participants in the youth music scene, will also perform Friday night on the festival’s main stage at 6pm.

“We’re doing this because we want to give these kids the opportunity to shine on stage,” Barb said.

“If people can actually support them, that would be magic.”

The program also has big plans for the future, with hopes of expanding into sound and event production.

Find Amped Up on social media for updates and future events, and don’t miss the group and solo performers from Amped Up at the Great Barrier Reef Festival this Saturday.

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Families, mark your calendars, the Ark Energy Family Fun Day is back and bigger than ever as part of this year’s Great Barrier Reef Festival!

Set against the stunning backdrop of Airlie Beach Foreshore, this free community event will take place from 10am to 2pm on Sunday, 3 August, offering a packed program of activities for children of all ages, as well as a chance for parents to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

From doughnut-eating competitions and crazy races to circus skills, live entertainment, and a crowd-pleasing treasure hunt, there’s no shortage of action. Face painting, reef-themed crafts, and interactive educational stalls will keep curious minds engaged throughout the day.

A strong focus on reef and cultural education will be woven throughout the event, with Eco Barge Clean Seas, Daydream Island’s Living Reef, Cruise Whitsundays, and Coral Sea Marina Resort among the many organisations bringing the reef to life for young festivalgoers.

The exciting and fun Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta kicks off the day at 8.30am. At the beach opposite the Airlie Beach Hotel, watch as everyone hits the water in their homemade recyclable water crafts.

Parents can enjoy food trucks and live music from midday at the Foreshore Pop-Up Bar, while the kids continue to burn off energy.

And don’t miss ‘Immerse’, the enchanting sculpture trail lighting up the fig trees with marine creatures made from recycled materials.

It’s a day of discovery, fun, and community spirit, and best of all, it’s completely free.

What: Family Fun Day
When: 3rd August 2025, 10am to 2pm
Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore

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Get ready, Whitsundays, Caravãna Sun is bringing their electric energy to the Great Barrier Reef Festival!
Known for their high-octane live performances and infectious blend of indie rock, reggae, surf-rock, and dance, this powerhouse Australian band promises a show to remember. With groove-heavy tracks, soulful sing-alongs, and moments that truly connect with the crowd, Caravãna Sun is a festival favourite for good reason.
Drawing inspiration from their coastal roots, their music pulses with sunny vibes and irresistible rhythms; their live shows are where the magic truly happens. Expect big sound, enormous energy, and even bigger crowd connection.
Hear from drummer James Smithers in a behind-the-scenes video as he dives into the band’s creative process and what makes their performances so electric.
Don’t miss your chance to see one of Australia’s most exciting live acts in action, right here in Airlie Beach.
Watch Caravãna at the Beats on the Beach on the Foreshore stage on Saturday 2 August at 9pm. Tickets are available at greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au

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The Airlie Beach Foreshore is set to sparkle and roar with colour on Friday, 1 August 2025, as the Great Barrier Reef Festival presents its much-loved Fireworks on the Foreshore event. From early evening until late, the vibrant atmosphere will draw locals and visitors alike for a night packed with entertainment, culture, and spectacular sights against the stunning backdrop of the Coral Sea.
Sponsored by the Whitsunday Regional Council, the evening kicks off with the colourful Lantern Parade winding its way from Coral Sea Marina to the foreshore, lighting up the boardwalk with creativity and community spirit. Following a traditional Welcome to Country, live music will take centre stage with performances from local favourites Category 5, the energetic family trio ObiSun, Mystic Aura Fire Show, and vibrant DJs to keep the crowd moving.
As dusk falls, the stunning Immerse Art Installation will glow to life, showcasing reef-inspired sculptures crafted from recycled marine debris — a visual tribute to the Great Barrier Reef’s beauty and fragility.
Festivalgoers can explore night markets brimming with local arts and crafts, feast on delicious street food at Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street and enjoy carnival rides, including a Ferris Wheel for all ages. Families can relax with a free outdoor screening of the animated film LUCA.
The night’s highlight comes at 8:30pm when the sky above Coral Sea explodes with a dazzling fireworks display, lighting up the coast in a breathtaking celebration.
Entry to the foreshore entertainment is free, while a small fee applies for the licensed bar area with front-row fireworks views. Book online to secure your spot.
Cap off the night at the official Reef Festival After Party at Boom Nightclub featuring Tigerlily , starting from 10pm, for more live music and dancing.

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival is set to light up Airlie Beach this August, with the much-loved Night Market and outdoor movie night returning to the foreshore on Friday, 1st August 2025, promising an evening full of colour, culture and community.
This free, family-friendly event, proudly supported by the Whitsunday Regional Council, will transform the Airlie Beach foreshore into a bustling hub of activity from late afternoon into the night. Locals and visitors alike can look forward to a vibrant Night Market filled with delicious food vendors, unique handmade goods, and local artisan stalls, the perfect place to grab a bite or pick up a special keepsake.
As the sun sets, families can gather under the stars for a magical outdoor screening of Disney and Pixar’s heart-warming film “Luca,” bringing a touch of the Italian Riviera to the tropical Whitsundays. Guests are encouraged to bring along picnic blankets and settle in for an unforgettable cinema experience by the sea.
Adding to the festive atmosphere will be cultural performances that celebrate the spirit and diversity of the region, followed by a dazzling fireworks display over the Coral Sea, lighting up the night sky in true festival fashion.
And for those after a bit of thrill, the carnival rides are sure to be a hit with kids and teens, offering fun and excitement all evening long.
The Friday foreshore festivities are just one part of the broader Great Barrier Reef Festival, which showcases the unique connection between the Whitsundays community and our World Heritage-listed reef. With events running across the weekend, the festival highlights the region’s marine wonders, local talent, and unmistakable tropical charm.
Don’t miss out on this spectacular night of family fun, live entertainment, and seaside magic, all set against the backdrop of one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.
For more details and the full festival program, visit: www.greatbarrierreeffestival.com.au

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Get ready to dance through time... Airlie Beach is about to experience a nightclub revival like never before.

Launching Friday 1 August, the brand-new immersive theatre show NOSTALGIA will make its dazzling debut at Magnums Hotel as part of the Great Barrier Reef Festival.

NOSTALGIA is more than just a performance, it promises to be a high-energy, sit-down theatrical journey through five decades of unforgettable nightlife.

Audiences will be transported from the swinging 60s and groovy 70s through the neon explosion of the 80s, the rebellious 90s, and into the pulsing club anthems of the 2000s. Think disco balls, power ballads, bold fashion, comedy, live vocals, and show-stopping dance routines, all rolled into one dynamic production.

“We’re reimagining the classic night out with a theatrical twist,” said the show’s creative directors Angela & Emmalene.

“Whether you lived through the disco days or just love the music, NOSTALGIA brings those unforgettable eras to life in a totally new way.”

“The show's designed around a flashback through time, and we're going back to nightclub eras.

“We start with the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s to 2000s, so it really connects to everybody.”

The show recently launched on the Gold Coast to rave reviews and has now brought its cast of eight professional performers, many fresh from international contracts, to Airlie Beach for a six-week season. Magnums Hotel has been completely transformed for the occasion, swapping its familiar party vibe for cabaret-style seating and velvet-laced ambience.

As part of the Reef Festival celebrations, the NOSTALGIA cast will also appear in the community street parade on Saturday, August 2, before taking to the main stage that evening with a spectacular preview performance.

Angela said she’s thrilled to be contributing to one of the Whitsundays’ most iconic annual events. She said it’s an honour to be a part of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, and the cast are excited to hit the stage.

Many of the performers are alumni of the popular touring show Infamous, which previously played to sold-out crowds in Airlie. NOSTALGIA now brings that same world-class energy in a fresh format that celebrates music, memory and movement.

The show will run during the Great Barrier Reef Festival on Friday and Sunday, with a sneak-peak show on Saturday at the festival’s main stage.

With limited seating available and the buzz already building, early bookings are strongly encouraged.

Whether you’re a Motown lover, a disco queen, a grunge fan, or a Y2K beat dropper, NOSTALGIA offers something for everyone.

Feel the beat. Relive the vibe.
Reignite the memories.
It's not just a theatre show it's a party through time.

WHAT: Nostalgia
WHERE: Magnums Hotel
WHEN: Friday 1 August (7pm – 10pm) & Sunday 2 August (7pm – 10pm)

Get ready for a high-energy musicalexperience with OBISUN, a dynamic family trio powered by love,rhythm, and a whole lot of talent. With Mama on bass and Daddy ondrums and Obi centre stage this act delivers an unforgettable showthat’s bursting with joy, passion, and crowd interaction.

Expect backflips, blazing drum solos, anda seriously tight rhythm section. Their original songs blend worldbeats with heartfelt lyrics, brought to life through a unique mix ofinstruments – including piano, bass, percussion, flute, guitar, anddrums, often played simultaneously.

With four full-length albums broadcast onradio stations around the world, OBISUN is more than a band: they’rea musical experience. Keeping it in the family, they serve upinfectious world beat originals, electrifying stage presence, and theoccasional playful scuffle over the drum kit.

Fun, fearless, and full of heart, OBISUNis a must-see act that’ll leave you smiling.

WHAT: OBISUN Performance

WHERE: Great Barrier Reef Festival Main Stage
WHEN: Friday 1August (at 8.45pm) & Saturday 2 August (7.30pm)

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival’s main stage will light up this Friday night as the Seagrass Theatre Group performs a special set of musical numbers from 6pm.

Formed in 2021, the student-led company began after Proserpine State High School’s Performing Arts Centre was built and a production of  We Will Rock You sparked students’ passion for musical theatre.

“I thought it would be a really clever idea for students learning and capacity building to set up a student-led theatre company so that the students experience all the different roles within the theatre,” said Jenny Napier, Head of Department ‘The Arts’ at Proserpine State High School.

“Whether it be on stage, technical, set construction, design, costuming, they do everything from promotion, producing, and directing.”

Since then, the group has delivered one-act plays and major musicals, including last year’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, which was described as “truly up to the standard of professional music.”

Group president Hayden Hudak said Friday’s performance includes five songs from a vast majority of musicals to help promote their upcoming event, Musical Theatre Night, on Friday, August 15.

The group also asked to perform at the Great Barrier Reef Festival and to open the Mayor’s Ball on Saturday night.

“They’re just amazing and very self-motivated,” said Ms Napier.

Seagrass continues to foster creativity, collaboration and career pathways, with many of the students involved in Seagrass pursuing a career in the field.

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A newly opened Home Nations-style pub in Airlie Beach is shaking things up by offering something the town has been missing. A laid-back venue serving traditional British food, independent beers, and live sport deep into the night.

Created by three blokes who love a true pub-going experience. Ivan Lonsdale, Matt Bayford, and Rogan Hunter designed The Pitch and Wicket to fill a long-standing gap in the market, a quality pub where sports lovers, shift workers and locals alike can unwind without thumping music, chicken parmies or schooners. Pints and half-pints only.

“I’ve had the idea in my head for years,” Ivan said.

“I thought that there was a gap in the market in Airlie Beach, in that front.”

Armed with a 3am licence, the venue caters to sports fans of all kinds, from Premier League and Formula One to Gaelic football, NBA, AFL, and UFC. With commentary playing and multiple screens in each section of the venue, it's becoming a haven for serious fans, especially during European matches that air late into the night.

The kitchen stays open from midday to 9pm without a break and offers a fully British menu, from steak and Guinness pie, lamb shanks, curries, toad in the hole, and a full English breakfast that can be ordered well into the evening.

“We’ve had fantastic reviews, we’ve had a lot of Australian customers in, and the reviews we’ve got back from them have been great, especially with our steak and Guinness pie,” said Matt

“Australians do love their pies, and now we’ve given them a taste of our British traditional kind of pie.”

The homemade curries are also extremely popular.

No pub would be a pub without drinks, and at The Pitch and Wicket, they have a strong focus on quality drinks. The pub offers independent beers, including exclusives from Goanna Brewing in Mackay, an extensive single malt whisky range, and even a local-only agreement to serve Travla Lager on tap.

While sport is a big drawcard, the owners are clear, it is not a sports bar, it is a pub that shows sport.

“I’ve always said that I wanted the pub to be a British pub, great food, great beer,” said Matt.

"We’re a British pub that shows sports. We’re not a sports bar.”

Offering peaceful seating areas, pool tables, a private back bar known as The Bunker, and thoughtful service, the pub has quickly become a favourite among hospitality workers, tourists and locals seeking something outside the usual late-night scene.

“By filling the gap in the market, we’re just trying to stick to what that gap is,” said Rogan.

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The Pitch and Wicket owners Ivan Lonsdale, Rogan Hunter and Matt Bayford have hit the ground running. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The internationally acclaimed theatrical concert The Simon & Garfunkel Story is heading to the Whitsundays, with a one-night-only performance at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre on Thursday, the 28th of August.

Following sold-out tours across the USA, UK, and Europe, this global sensation will bring its powerful tribute to one of music’s most iconic duos to local audiences. With performances in over 50 countries and more than 20 headline shows in London’s prestigious West End – including appearances at the world-famous London Palladium – The Simon & Garfunkel Story has cemented itself as a must-see event for fans of the era.

Telling the captivating tale of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel’s meteoric rise to fame, the production traces the duo’s journey from humble beginnings as 1950s rock 'n' roll act Tom & Jerry, through their chart-topping success, dramatic split, solo careers, and ending with a stirring recreation of their legendary 1981 Central Park reunion concert.

With a full live band, stunning 1960s imagery, video projections, and unforgettable renditions of timeless hits including Mrs Robinson, Bridge Over Troubled Water, Homeward Bound, Scarborough Fair, The Boxer, The Sound Of Silence, and Cecilia, the show offers a deeply immersive experience for fans old and new.

The production has been praised around the world, earning rave reviews for its emotional storytelling and world-class musical performances.

“Simply incredible,” hailed BBC Scotland, while the Burnley Express said, “The standing ovation at the end of this impressive show was a given as soon as the final note faded from the very first song.”

Even Art Garfunkel himself gave the show five stars, declaring; “What a great show.”

With tickets already in demand, patrons are encouraged to book early to avoid missing out on what promises to be a memorable evening.

Tickets are available now via www.proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au or at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre's box office. Don’t miss your chance to relive the soundtrack of a generation with this internationally celebrated show.

When: Thursday the 28th of August from 7pm to 9:20pm
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 14 Main Street, Proserpine

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