At the weekend David Flower organised a beautiful bunch of artists to come together for an intimate three-day gathering on a private property in Preston (Conway Rd).
The gathering offered a variety of entertainment across different music genres, including folk /funk /rock and roots artists and a full program of activities, games and guaranteed spontaneous moments known as the ‘Flower Effect’.
The fantastic festival helped raise much-needed funds for Eco Barge Clean Seas, a spectacular organisation that arranges marine debris clean-ups alongside caring for injured turtles.
Founder of the festival, David Flower, gushed over how the three-day event went:
“I think everyone was just in awe of the atmosphere that was there because the setting was so beautiful, the skies were blue, and the sun would bank around the back of the stage, so everyone was in the shade, and early in the day and at night, everyone had a dance.”
“It was just beautiful.”
Around 200 individuals attended the event, which David said gave the festival a real “community feel.”
Some highlights from the weekend included the finishing act Salt n Steel, who got all the audience jumping and singing along at the end of the night, and the game of backyard cricket. However, David added that the “cherry on the top of a very great cake was that “everyone left with a big smile on their faces and the rumour’s getting out now of how great it was!”
While they are still counting numbers for how much was raised for Eco Barge, last year they raised $2.5k, and are expecting the numbers to be even higher this year.
Keep an eye out for next year's festival and join in raising funds for a great cause.

The festival had a fantastic line-up of artists
Families came together to enjoy the live entertainment
Musicians took to the stage to play in the sun
Attendees danced the night away
A beautiful turtle decoration
The lovely eco barge volunteers

Photo credit: Bronwyn Garland & Rion

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The community Colour Fun Run is back for 2024, with Whitsunday Counselling and Support gearing up for a bigger event than ever.
Get ready for a jumping castle, bubbles, face painting, sausage sizzle, raffles, prizes, and of course the coveted colour fun run - this absolutely free event will see smiles and laughter from everyone who attends!
Taking place during Child Protection Week, organisers aim to raise awareness that all adult community members are responsible for ensuring that our children remain safe and nurtured.
The Child Protection Week message for 2024 is ‘child protection is everyone’s business.’

What: Colour Run for Child Protection
Where: Coral Sea Marina Gardens
When: 9am on Saturday 7th September.
Registrations: FREE EVENT, just show up!

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August
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm
31 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
31 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete, Cyclone Shelter, Primary school, Sterry St, Proserpine. 
31 QCWA Public Meeting, Cannonvale Neighbourhood Centre, from 10am

September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
4 Stella Life Morning Tea, Bowen Garden Club, from 9am
6-8 Whitsundays Writers Festival
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
7 Colour Run for Child Protection, Coral Sea Marina Gardens, from 9am
7 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
7 Kath and Kim Drag Bingo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
8 Whitsunday Thrift Club Market, Kipara Rainforest Retreat, from 9am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
13 Celtic Illusion, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
21 Mayor’s Charity Ball, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 5pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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Friday 30 August
Flametree Gathering (from 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Zed Charles (8pm – 12am)
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm - 8pm)

Saturday 31 August
Flametree Gathering (from 9am)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Elton John Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sweet Alibi’s (8pm – 12am)
KC’s: Corey Harris (from 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm - 4pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm - 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Live Music (from 1pm)

Sunday 1 September
Flametree Gathering (from 8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Elton John Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Josiah (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm - 4pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)
Colonial Palms: Jazz Afternoon with Nick De Gregorio

Thursday 5 September
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

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The highly anticipated arrival of the 32nd Variety Victoria Bash arrived in Airlie Beach last Friday 23 August.

83 themed cars and 292 people drove through our iconic main street before finishing their journey alongside Airlie Beach foreshore.

The 2024 Variety Victoria Bash began in Swan Hill, Victoria on Friday 16 August and travelled over 3,500 kilometres to Airlie Beach, arriving eight days later. This year’s course was named ‘Red Dirt to Reef’

Along the way, drivers delivered over $100,000 in vital grants to schools and regional communities, directly benefiting children and families in these areas. In addition to the grants, the Bash also injected over $100,000 into each local town every time they stopped for fuel, snacks, lunch, dinner and accommodation.

The 2024 Variety Victoria Bash raised over $1.6 million and Motoring and Events Manager Scott Watson is thrilled with the figure and with the work they have done.

“In Bundaberg we travelled to a Kindy in a low socio-economic area and we supplied a grand of $2000 for resources,” said Scott.

“Those resources are getting underpants, socks and food for the kids, it was beautiful and the manager of the centre was in tears.

Chief Executive Office (CEO) of the Variety Victoria Mandy Burns said during this Bash they visited 10 different schools and communities and offered grants to those in need.

“We granted to those schools and communities in terms of helping a school finish off their playground, providing a class with a set of iPads, and tonight (Friday 23 August) we're providing an insulin pump for a local teenager,” said Mandy.

“Those sorts of things mean it has been successful and our awesome 292 people have all raised a minimum of $5,000 each, in fact, have raised closer to $15,000 - $20,000 each.

“The other element of success is we deliberately target communities where we can invest and spend money.

“We've had approximately 20 schools and kindergartens that have also then benefited from fundraising from us.”

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Variety Victoria CEO Mandy Burns

Some of the bright coloured vehicles arriving in Airlie Beach last week

Photo credit: Daniel Heggie

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The forecast is in… Leave your hats on and dress for a great night of Feelin’ Alright!
Step into the world of music legend Joe Cocker with The Joe Cocker Express!

The Airlie Beach Hotel invites you to an unforgettable evening of music and nostalgia, celebrating the legendary artist. The Joe Cocker Express will take you on a nostalgic journey with authentic renditions of Cocker’s greatest hits, ensuring a night full of timeless tunes and unforgettable moments.

Experience the magic of a 9-piece powerhouse band led by Australia's very own Chev Wilson. With a voice that remarkably echoes young Joe Cocker, Chev brings a fresh, electrifying energy to timeless classics like "You Are So Beautiful," "Up Where We Belong," "Delta Lady," "Unchain My Heart," "The Letter," and "With A Little Help From My Friends," among many others.

To the band Joe Cocker was a powerhouse in the music industry, leaving an indelible mark with his soulful voice and passionate performances.

“He was not just a singer; he was a true artist who poured his heart and soul into every note. Once we heard a song recreated by the rock soul voice of Joe Cocker, it was his way we forever wanted to hear it,” the band’s website reads.

“With a career spanning decades, Cocker’s influence on rock and blues is immeasurable.”

The fantastic tribute performance will take you on a journey of Cocker’s remarkable career, from his early days in Sheffield to his legendary Woodstock performance and beyond. The Joe Cocker Express is a tribute to the man, his music, and his enduring legacy.

“We are really excited to come up and play at Airlie Beach,” emphasised Rebecca Muino Director of Joe Cocker Express and back-up vocalist.

“We are going to enjoy a weekend there.”

Don’t miss this opportunity to relive the magic and experience the timeless songs that have touched the hearts of generations. Get your tickets now and be part of a night that celebrates the life and music of one of the greatest singers and voices of all time!

What: Joe Cocker Express
When: Saturday September 7 and Sunday September 8 at 2pm
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
Tickets: FREE, but book a table to avoid disappointment on the day!

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The third annual Whitsundays Songwriter Festival is scheduled to take place this October and organisers are appealing for sponsors who would like to donate to this much-loved local event.

The festival is dedicated to developing amateur songwriters in the Whitsundays and connecting them with world-class mentors to help further their skills, capacity, and careers.

Last year, highly acclaimed artists Vika & Linda, and Toni Childs took participants on an incredible journey which culminated in a special Concert and Conversation event.

This year, six world class songwriters and artists have once again been invited to the region to mentor a new generation of local songwriters, create new work, deliver an emerging songwriter workshop, and perform in the event showcase,

There are only 12 spots up for grabs in the workshop and tickets go on sale soon, with the full line-up of attending artists expected to be announced soon.

Co-Founder of the Whitsundays Songwriter Festival Karen Jacobsen said she is thrilled for this year’s festival.

“I’m excited for local emerging songwriters to have the opportunity to be mentored by our superstar faculty in 2024, right here in the region,” said Karen.

“Our line-up features some of Australia’s most successful, iconic recording artists and we look forward to announcing them soon.”

Whitsundays Songwriter Festival are seeking donations from sponsors or crowdfunding, all crowdfunding donations over $2 are tax deductible.

If you loved last year’s Concert and Conversation event and are looking forward to discovering this years’ extraordinary line-up please donate to the festival to ensure the continuation of another one of the region’s inspiring cultural events.

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WHAT: Whitsundays Songwriters Festival
WHEN: October 10th - 15th

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Vika Bull, Toni Childs, Karen Jacobsen, Mark Sholtez, Francesca de Valence, and Linda Bull all attended last years’ event. Photo credit: Whitsunday Life Newspaper

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The Airlie Beach Festival of Music (ABFoM) is back for its 12th annual celebration, bringing three days of legendary music and festivities from November 8th to 10th.

Featuring an incredible lineup including Sweet (UK), Rose Tattoo, Pseudo Echo. Jebediah, Thirsty Merc, Southern Sons, Christine Anu, Ash Grunwald, Reece Mastin, Sandi Thom, 19 Twenty and Bondi Cigars, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience.

To celebrate, ABFoM is offering you a chance to win the Ultimate Party in Paradise Package. This exclusive giveaway includes everything you need for a perfect escape to The Whitsundays and to enjoy this party in paradise.
​
Here’s what’s included in the prize;
   • Return flights for two: Enjoy direct flights to Whitsunday Coast Airport from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, or Cairns, so you can dive straight into paradise.
   • Five nights of luxury accommodation: Stay in a Waterview Queen Room at Heart Hotel, valued at $1,325. Relax and take in the spectacular views of The Whitsundays.
   • Scenic flight and reef adventure: Experience a breathtaking flight over Heart Reef and a thrilling tour to Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet with Ocean Rafting, valued at $1,034.
   • Daily breakfast at The Deck: Start your days with a delicious breakfast to fuel your adventures, valued at $250.
   • Seafood platter for two: Enjoy a fresh seafood platter at Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill, valued at $155, while soaking in the stunning views.
   • Two 3-day passes to the Airlie Beach Festival of Music: Enjoy live performances from legendary artists with two passes to this iconic festival, valued at $640.
The Ultimate Party in Paradise Package is an amazing prize and would be an unforgettable experience. All aspects of the prize are amazing on their own, combined, the winner will have an incredible time in arguably Australia’s best location.

This year’s festival is stacked with an epic lineup of performers. UK rock band Sweet are headlining the festival and are bringing high standards to their performance. Renowned for recreating the high energy and soaring vocals associated with the Sweet sound is something they bring to all of their live performances and is the Sweet trademark.

It’s a tropical getaway like no other, says Gavin “Butto” Butlin, ABFoM Founder, “This will be the ultimate prize to win and enjoy a festival like nowhere else. We have an awesome lineup, an incredible location, and the best prizes to go with it. You’d be mad not to enter.” 
​
To enter, complete the form on ABFoM’s website and share in 25 words or less how you would Party in Paradise.
ABFoM are eager to hear your most exciting and creative ideas. Don’t miss your chance to win this incredible package and experience the best of The Whitsundays alongside world-class music. Entries close on Friday September 13, 2024.

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One of the world’s most successful cult comedians is heading to the Proserpine Entertainment Centre today and the audience can expect an evening filled with his signature blend of irreverent and wildly entertaining humour.
Highly hilarious and extremely popular English comedian Ross Noble is gracing the Proserpine Entertainment Centre with his 21st solo stand-up tour ‘Jibber Jabber Jamboree.’
Noble invites you to an evening of inspired whimsy and inventive hilarity, showcasing why he’s the unrivalled master of freewheeling, stream-of-consciousness stand-up. Expect a performance rich with improv and audience participation, ensuring an unforgettable night of spontaneous laughter and joy.
Proserpine is thrilled to host the esteemed comedian on his Australian tour. Before arriving in Proserpine, he’ll be entertaining audiences across Alice Springs, Wollongong, and Mackay.
Noble rose to fame through his appearances on British television shows such as ‘Have I Got News for You’ as well as, other interview and panel shows.
In 2007, the acclaimed comedian was ranked 10th on Channel 4’s list of the 100 Greatest Stand-Ups. During that time, he also toured Australia on his motorbike, covering over 26,000 kilometres and documenting the journey. This adventure was later broadcast in 2009.
Noble is not only a talented comedian but has also made his mark as an actor, appearing in both films and stage productions.
In 2012, he made his film debut in the fantasy comedy horror movie ‘Stitches’, where he starred as Stitches, the killer clown.
In 2015 he made his musical theatre debut in The Producers and in 2018 was nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award for his performance in Mel Brooks Young Frankenstein musical in the West End.
Noble is often referred to as a ‘randomist’, and asking What’s it about? What will we learn? How will it change the world? Are all pointless questions to ask when Noble is off on one of his tangents.
Join the master surrealist as he uses an infinite imagination and plenty of tomfoolery in a night not to be missed.
Grab a ticket and come and enjoy the ride.

https://alist.com.au/tours/jibber-jabber-jamboree/

What: Ross Noble’s Jibber Jabber Jamboree
When: Friday August, 30th
Where: The Proserpine Entertainment Centre

Join Ross Noble at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre for a night full of laughs!
Jibber Jabber Jamboree comes to Prossie!

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Friday 23 August

The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Tim Griffin (8pm – 12am)
KC’s: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Sailing Club: Live Music (5-8pm)

Saturday 24 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Beach Boys (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Chris Webb (8pm – 12am)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm)
KC’s: Sar-Rah (from 8pm)
Sailing Club: Live Music (1-8pm)

Sunday 25 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Back to the 80s (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Chris Webb (4pm – 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Accoustic Session (2pm – 6pm)
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Sailing Club (1-4pm)

Monday 26 August
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Tuesday 27 August
KC’s Ash Smith (from 8pm)

Wednesday 28 August
KC’s: Tash (from 8pm)

Thursday 29 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Ash Smith (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC’s: Tash (from 8pm)

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August
24 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
24 Thanks Doc, Larrikin Hotel, from 5.30pm
25 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 6pm
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm
31 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
31 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete, Cyclone Shelter, Primary school, Sterry St, Proserpine. 

September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
7 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
7 Kath and Kim Drag Bingo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
8 Whitsunday Thrift Club Market, Kipara Rainforest Retreat, from 9am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
21 Mayor’s Charity Ball, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 5pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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Following last year's success, Flametree Gathering returns over the Father’s Day weekend, for a family-friendly, fun time.

Co-organiser Bronwyn Garland is excited for the weekend which is said to be a small and intimate festival due to only 200 tickets being up for purchase.

“It's an intimate festival, it is not too big so people can get to know each other, and it is family friendly,” said Bronwyn.

“We invite families to come, and children 12 and under can come for free, because it's the Father's Day weekend, we want to create a family friendly community event.”

There will be music for everyone at this year’s Flametree Gathering with many world class artists performing a wide range of genres, blues, reggae, country and more.

Harry Kemp will be returning to the Whitsundays to perform, Bec and Rachel Olsson from Innocent Eve will be performing for the first time in two years.

Other music legends will be joining the festival including Karl S.Williams & Sally Wiggins, Sky Eater, Salt n Steel and festival organiser David Flower will be hitting the stage too.

The money raised from the Flametree Gathering will be supporting turtle rehabilitation by donating to Eco Barge Clean Seas Inc. as David and Bronwyn believe it is a great local charity that deserves awareness and support for all the hard work they do.

David is looking forward to this year’s Flametree Gathering and is very proud to present this gathering to the Whitsunday people.

David and Bronwyn see big festivals around them cancelling and they understand that live music is under threat and it’s important for artists to keep performing and sharing their music with audiences.

What: Flametree Gathering
Where: 641 Conway Rd, Preston
When: Friday 30 August, Saturday 31 August, Sunday 1 September
Cost: 3 day pass $110, Camping $20 – Entry costs more at gate, bring cash for raffle and auctions

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Greg Andrews (Sir Elton John) has performed his tribute in over 30 countries and to this date is the only Elton John Tribute to be asked to perform at tribute festival Tribfest in Yorkshire, United Kingdom.

Tribfest is a strictly invite only festival and Greg is extremely proud of that.

“Being Australian and then being chosen to do British royalty on English soil, was a wonderful experience and the reception I got from the Brits was fantastic,” Greg added.

“It was an incredible experience performing there, it was just wonderful. It was probably the biggest crowd at a tribute festival I've performed at too.”

Tribfest is just one of the festivals Greg has performed at over the years, and it is one of his biggest achievements. Another was his invite to the Sydney premiere of the 2019 film ‘Rocketman’.

“I think since the movie, a lot of people have rekindled their love for the Elton music,” said Greg.

He also said he loves the diversity of age at his shows.

“The music of Elton John is generational. I have some people coming through that grew up with the Lion King in 94,” said Greg.

“When I do theatre shows the age group is vast, so it's not just people over 50 or 60. It is also people in their 20’s and 30’s coming to the show.”

Greg has performed at the Airlie Beach Hotel before and recalled the crowd being fantastic.

“It's going to be wonderful to see all those Elton fans come out and have a wonderful couple of days. I’m really looking forward to getting back to the beautiful Whitsundays,” Greg said.

Greg is performing on Saturday and Sunday (Father’s Day) so bring dad down to the Airlie Beach Hotel this Father’s Day for a great atmosphere and amazing songs.

What: The Elton John Experience
Where: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday 31 August & Sunday 1 September (Father’s Day)

The Elton John Experience, Photos supplied

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Whitsunday Thrift Club has announced its next market date on Sunday, September 8th at Kipara Rainforest Retreat. The club, headed by organiser Kaitlin Cavanagh is on a mission to revolutionize the pre-loved clothing market in the Whitsundays and bring the community together.
With limited local shopping options and a growing trend of online shopping, Whitsunday Thrift Club has identified the need for a space where people could find unique, quality pieces and where others could sell their preloved or vintage clothing that was too good to be destined for the op shop.
Following the resounding success of the first event in June, which showcased over 30 local sellers and drew in hundreds of excited attendees, the next event promises to be an even greater celebration of sustainable fashion and community spirit.
“This is an invitation to all fashion enthusiasts with pre-loved treasures waiting to be shared with the Whitsundays to seize this opportunity,” said Kaitlin.”
Those attending are encouraged to get in early to find the best bargains “the first thrift club market saw a few hundred keen shoppers come through the doors it was such an amazing experience to see so many locals get behind our initiative,” Kaitlin said “we are very excited about our next market.”
Interested in becoming a seller? You can apply by visiting Whitsunday Thrift Club’s website at www.whitsundaythriftclub.com.au
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What: Whitsunday Thrift Club Market
When: September 8, 2024
Where: Kipara Rainforest Retreat
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Thrift yourself happy!

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August
17 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
17 Ben Bolt Cup Race Day, Bowen Turf Club, from 11am
17 Seagrass Musical Theatre Night, Proserpine State High School, from 6pm (7pm start)
20 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
24 Thanks Doc, Larrikin Hotel, from 5.30pm
25 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 6pm
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm
31 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
31 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete, Cyclone Shelter, Primary school, Sterry St, Proserpine. 

September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
7 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
7 Kath and Kim Drag Bingo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
21 Mayor’s Charity Ball, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 5pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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Friday 9 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Ash Smith (8pm – 12am)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm – 8pm)
KC’s: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)

Saturday 10 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: INXS (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Live Music (from 1pm)
Grand View Hotel: Ash Smith (8pm – 12am)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm – 4pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm – 8pm)
KC’s: Sar-rah (from 8pm)

Sunday 11 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: INXS (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Rick Barron (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jonesy & The Coffee Man (4pm – 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm – 4pm)
KC’s: Graeme Rix (from 8pm)

Monday 12 August
KC’s: Dallas Steele (from 8pm)

Tuesday 13 August
KC’s: Dallas Steele (from 8pm)

Wednesday 14 August
KC’s: Ash Smith (from 8pm)

Thursday 15 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC’s: 15 Danny Wellington (from 8pm)

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Get ready to ‘Dance, Dance, Dance’ as Australia's best and biggest Beach Boys tribute band surfs back to Airlie Beach for their 5th performance at the venue.

The band, consisting of five male members and one female, delivers a live performance where every member sings and plays their own replica instruments. Their attention to detail extends to their costumes, creating an authentic experience. The band also focuses on achieving a powerful wall of sound, ensuring their performance closely resembles the original Beach Boys records.
The Beach Boys Tribute band is Will Siska’s 8-year brainchild. The band promises an authentic Beach Boys experience from their performance. Will asserts, “People get a real Beach Boys experience, they can hear the songs as per the records.”
Will acts as one of the lead vocalists and on rhythm guitar.
With him is Greg, with lead vocals, Gerry as vocalist and the band's drummers, Michael as vocalist and lead guitar and Ian on bass guitar.
The crew also enlist the powerful presence and vocals of Anita, who is backing vocals and feature vocalist.
When asked what the band’s favourite song to play is, Will answered, ‘Don't Worry Baby’:
“It is the first song that the Beach Boys produced which had a big wall of sound and instrumentation and orchestrations.”
“That song has always resonated with me. It has this beautiful feel, beautiful harmonies, and beautiful vocals.
“However, Under the Boardwalk and Kokomo are massive crowd favourites. They just put this energy into the audience that is amazing.”
The band will be flying in on Thursday and will remain in Airlie Beach until Monday. They’re all looking forward to immersing themselves in the beauty of the Whitsundays during their stay. Will, in particular, is thrilled about the experience and has expressed his excitement about enjoying his time in the luxurious suite at ABH. Coming to a regional location is a different experience for bands who often play in big cities, but Will said the band love coming to play in Airlie Beach:
“I love playing regional gigs, because the people are very appreciative of a big band coming to the regions, because a lot of bands don't do that, it can be a bit financially difficult for regions to get big bands to come out.”
“We try and keep prices down as much as we can so people can still enjoy some real good quality live shows,” Will added.
Audiences can expect a lot of fun, nostalgia, great music, great harmonies and a great time:
“We always have a good time when we perform and that shows and people just get into it and have fun!”
“It's About Time”, you head on down to Airlie Beach hotel for some “Good Vibrations,” with the Beach Boys.

What: The Beach Boys tribute band
When: Saturday 24th August, afternoon session onstage 2pm-5.30pm
Where: ‘The Pub,’ Airlie Beach Hotel

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The Beach Boys are coming to Airlie Beach!

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In light of growing concerns about the environmental impact of fast fashion and the current cost of living crisis, Zero Waste Solutions are excited to announce the return of their Preloved Market Night, which is coming back to Airlie Beach for the 3rd time.
This community-driven event aims to promote sustainability, save you money, and bring people together for an evening of budget-friendly, eco-conscious shopping.
Fast fashion’s rapid production cycles significantly contribute to pollution, waste, and unethical labour practices. By embracing slow fashion, individuals can massively reduce environmental footprints and foster a more sustainable future.
The event features a lively marketplace where attendees can shop for high-quality, preloved clothing, accessories, and homewares at affordable prices. Whether you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe or find unique pieces, Zero Waste Solutions Preloved Market Night offers an enjoyable and cost-effective alternative to buying new.
Enjoy coffee, snacks, music, and great prizes throughout the duration of the evening, including an award for the "Top Fashion Thrifts" which will be awarded to the best second-hand outfit of the night.
Head on down to the pre-loved market for an unforgettable evening and take a step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. #sustainablewhitsundays
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What: Pre-loved Market
When: Friday, 23rd August, 6pm - 8pm
Where: 3 Little Birds Espresso, 2/402 Shute Harbour Rd, Airlie Beach QLD 4802
Admission: FREE

Photo supplied.

Did you want to be in Paris for the Olympic skateboarding? That’s okay, next weekend the country’s best skateboarders will be coming to the Whitsundays for ‘Ramped Up Whitsundays’!

This two-day event is set to draw-in skateboarders from across Australia, turning the Whitsundays into a hub of high-energy excitement.

This weekend is also entirely free to watch.

Day 1 – Saturday 24 August 
Enjoy bowl skateboarding at the Cannonvale Skatepark with local markets and live music.

Day 2 – Sunday 25 August
Head to the Hazelton’s to watch an exclusive vert session on their private ramp.

‘Ramped Up Whitsundays is supported by the Whitsunday Regional Council.

To find out more about this exciting two-day event, check out The Rumble's Facebook page or visit their website - therumble.com.au

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August
8-15 Airlie Beach Race Week
8 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
8 Eskimo Joe, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
9 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Tinkerbell and the Pirate Fairy & Hook, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 5pm & FREE Sausage Sizzle, Proserpine Community Centre, 10am-12pm.
10 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
12 FREE Latin Dance Classes, Proserpine Community Centre, 10am.
15 Morning Melodies – A Farewell to Doris, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 11am
15 Zonta General Meeting, VMR Whitsunday, from 6pm
15 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
17 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
17 Ben Bolt Cup Race Day, Bowen Turf Club, from 11am
17 Seagrass Musical Theatre Night, Proserpine State High School, from 6pm (7pm start)
20 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
24 Thanks Doc, Larrikin Hotel, from 5.30pm
25 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 6pm
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm
31 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
31 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete, Cyclone Shelter, Primary school, Sterry St, Proserpine. 

September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
7 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
7 Kath and Kim Drag Bingo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
21 Mayor’s Charity Ball, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 5pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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Friday 9 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Ash Smith (8pm – 12am)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm – 8pm)
KC’s: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)

Saturday 10 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: INXS (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Live Music (from 1pm)
Grand View Hotel: Ash Smith (8pm – 12am)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm – 4pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm – 8pm)
KC’s: Sar-rah (from 8pm)

Sunday 11 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: INXS (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Rick Barron (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jonesy & The Coffee Man (4pm – 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm – 4pm)
KC’s: Graeme Rix (from 8pm)

Monday 12 August
KC’s: Dallas Steele (from 8pm)

Tuesday 13 August
KC’s: Dallas Steele (from 8pm)

Wednesday 14 August
KC’s: Ash Smith (from 8pm)

Thursday 15 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC’s: 15 Danny Wellington (from 8pm)

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The Mystery Box Rally is coming to Airlie Beach in August!

The Mystery Box Rally is part of Box Rallies, which includes Shitbox Rally and Lunchbox Rally, it was devised in 2009 by James Freeman after both his parents sadly died of cancer within 12 months of each other.

After living these devastating circumstances James decided to turn his grief into a positive outlet and partnered with the Cancer Council to raise critical funds for Cancer Research.

Box Rallies is now the leading individual fundraiser for Cancer Council nationally generating over $48.3 million to Cancer research plus media awareness for Cancer Council. This helps the lives of millions of Australians who are facing their unknown journey.

This year The Mystery Box Rally is coming to Airlie Beach bringing with it 170 cars and 340 people which are taking part on the currently unknown course.

The route is a loop starting and finishing at the same location (Airlie Beach), but all the other details are kept under wraps, only given to the teams each morning.

Teams drive their own 25+ year old cars along a mystery route in this unique 5-day challenge, all in the name of cancer research.

This year our very own Airlie Beach Hotel owner Mick McFie and his best mate Andrew Bell (aka Belly) are participating in the Mystery Box Rally.

Currently Mick and Andrew have raised over $57,000 and will continue to raise more until the event starts.

You can get involved by becoming a team sponsor, in turn you’ll raise funds for Cancer Council and get your business advertised at Airlie Beach Hotel.

On Saturday 17 August Michael and Andrew will set out in their 1997 Ford Fairlaine.

Founder James Freeman says: “Mystery Box Rally is not a race, but a reward for fundraising efforts. All our rallies are so much fun, but Mystery Box keeps delivering year after year with more and more people returning to participate.”

“After a warm and amazing Mystery Box Rally in 2023 we are chasing the warmth again with the announcement that the 2024 start and finish line is Airlie Beach, Queensland.

“The position of Airlie Beach gives us a great area to travel for the rally with plenty of amazing bush tracks to explore and country/outback hospitality.”

What: Mystery Box Rally
Where: Airlie Beach
When: Saturday 17 August

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Mystery Box Rally on their mystery rally journey

Publican of Airlie Beach Hotel, Mick and his rally companion Andrew have raised over $57,000, Photo supplied

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Local beauty, Gizelle Lee is heading to Paris Fashion Week soon and in the lead-up to her world travels she is hosting a special French-themed event called Le Gala which will be will take place at Boatys on Saturday 17 August

Whitsunday resident Gizelle is just 16 years old and she is hosting this special Le Gala evening to help raise money for her travels and future career path.

At Le Gala guests will be treated to a drink on arrival, canapes, mingling and fun.

Roland Flynn will be hitting the stage and performing until 10pm when DJ in2theam finishes the night.

There will also be a raffle during the evening and businesses around town have been making generous donations to the raffle so there are heaps of great prizes up for grabs.

Gizelle’s mother is helping to organise Le Gala and loves that the community are getting behind her daughter.

“It's been really quite humbling that people just want to help and it's been really nice,” said Linda Lee.

“It has been really exciting for Gizelle too, we are sort of pinching ourselves a little bit.”

Le Gala is a formal cocktail attire event and costs $80 for an adult and $50 for a child.

In Paris Fashion Week Gizelle will be representing Belle Le Chic, a Sunshine Coast based modelling agency.

She has modelled for them before, one of her shoots was used on a billboard in Time Square, New York.

At such a young age she has already hit the ground running, but Paris Fashion Week will only help her develop and learn more.

You can help Gizelle get to Paris by attending her Le Gala.

What: Le Gala
Where: Boatys
When: Saturday 17 August at 5pm

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Gizelle Lee Le Gala
Gizelle Lee on a billboard in Times Square, New York

Photos supplied

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This Friday at Bowen Summergarden Cinemas Colleen Hoovers ‘It Ends with Us’ hits the screen.

The number one New York Times Best Selling Author originally published the book in 2016 and it is loved by many as it follows the story of Lily Bloom and her struggle to navigate her career and love life after the death of her father.

This changes when she meets Ryle Kincaid, a neurosurgeon who she instantly falls for.

Blake Lively plays Lily Bloom and Justin Baldoni plays Ryle Kincaid.

‘It Ends with Us’ is rated M and premiers at Bowen Summergarden Cinemas on Friday 9 August at 6.45pm.

Tickets cost $10

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Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni in ‘It Ends with Us’, Photo supplied

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At this years Mayor’s Charity Ball, Mayor Ry Collins has chosen not one, but two incredible local charities to support: RACQ CQ Rescue and the Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network.
RACQ CQ Rescue has provided lifesaving services to the Whitsunday Region for over 27 years, ensuring rapid and safe transport to medical facilities.
The Whitsunday Suicide Prevention Network (WSPN) offers critical support and education to prevent suicide and address mental health issues.
The Mayor’s Charity Ball is a glamourous event and an evening that we celebrate this community and the two important charities.

Tickets prices range from $150-295

What: Mayor’s Charity Ball
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre
When: Saturday 21 August at 5pm

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Friday 2 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Rebelquin (8pm – 12am)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm – 8pm)
KC’s: Tash (from 8pm)

Saturday 3 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Bustamento (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (7pm – 10pm)
Coral Sea Pavillion: Live Music (from 1pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night/Charly Templar (8pm – 12am)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm – 4pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm – 8pm)
KC’s: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Sunday 4 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Bob Marley Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix (4pm – 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm – 4pm)
KC’s: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

Monday 5 August
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Tuesday 6 August
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Wednesday 7 August
KC’s: Fergus (from 8pm)

Thursday 8 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Rick Barron (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC’s: Zed Charles (from 8pm)

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August
1-4 Great Barrier Reef Festival, Airlie Beach, from 9am
2 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Finding Dory, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
6 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6 Whalebone, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm and 6pm
8-15 Airlie Beach Race Week
8 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
8 Eskimo Joe, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
9 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Tinkerbell and the Pirate Fairy & Hook, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 5pm
10 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
15 Morning Melodies – A Farewell to Doris, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 11am
15 Zonta General Meeting, VMR Whitsunday, from 6pm
15 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
17 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
17 Ben Bolt Cup Race Day, Bowen Turf Club, from 11am
17 Seagrass Musical Theatre Night, Proserpine State High School, from 6pm (7pm start)
20 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
24 Thanks Doc, Larrikin Hotel, from 5.30pm
25 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 6pm
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm
31 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
31 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete, Cyclone Shelter, Primary school, Sterry St, Proserpine. 

September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
7 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC Whitsunday, from 10am
7 Kath and Kim Drag Bingo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
21 Mayor’s Charity Ball, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 5pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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Returning to Airlie Beach for the 13th time to perform, is Australia’s number one touring INXS tribute INXS “REVIVED” staring frontman Dellacoma Rio.
Dellacoma Rio and the band are gearing up and getting excited to come and play at Airlie Beach Hotel:
“We've got a very, very high energy show. Airlie Beach is one of only two hotels that we play in Australia, everywhere else we play performing arts centers, theater and festivals.”
“Airlie Beach has become a bit of a second home; they saved us a bit through COVID.”
INXS “REVIVED,” has six members, and all of them are full time musicians, except their keyboard player who owns a Laundromat.
The band was formed a decade ago by original member and guitarist Rob. Over the years, the lineup evolved, with most of the current members joining around six years ago.
“It is an opportunity to play these songs and then play them in a way that we feel like INXS would be playing them if they were still playing,” he added.
The bands favourite songs to play are ‘Never Tear Us Apart,’ and they generally end their performances with ‘Don’t Change,’ which Dellacoma says is a lot of fun.
The band has had several highlights over the years, but two distinct ones were the opportunities to play in Darwin and Alice Springs, alongside playing in Noosa for the second time, and selling out both times.
Dellacoma and the band reflected back on their wildest concert memory, which took place at a festival in Oklahoma 10 years ago. Despite a tornado and torrential rain, a day before, the festival went ahead. The skies cleared but the rain had soaked the ground.
“There was no one up front of the stage, it was just a mud pit, so, during a guitar solo, I jumped off stage and slid on the mud up to the audience on a big belly slide,” Dellacoma reminisced.
While Airlie will be a whistle stop tour for the band, Dellacoma stated how it's always fun at Airlie Beach. He added that whilst he, himself, lives in Queensland, the rest of the band are excited to get out of the cold weather in Melbourne.
Dellacoma also explained that he loves seeing locals amidst the holiday-goers: “It is pretty cool to see some of the same faces.”
Having played in the big cities and regional areas, Dellacoma Rio and the band find that there is something special about playing in the smaller towns:
“Regional areas generally are a lot more grateful to have you there.”
“You can get lost in the shuffle in the big cities, because there's always entertainment, not just music, but you're also competing with sports and bigger concerts, but regional areas, you can actually get into the heart and soul of Australia.”
INXS have an amazing show set for Airlie Beach with full video production that goes the entire time and legend has it, that Dellacoma Rio likes to jump on cars driving by, so if you are in town make sure you roll down your window to see if he comes by.
“It's going to be good coming home, back to our second home.”

What: INXS “REVIVED”
When: 10th and 11th August, from 2-5:30pm
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
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Frontman Dellacoma Rio

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The 82nd Annual Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete will be held on Saturday, 31st August 2024 from 10 - 2:00pm.
Get ready to blossom at the upcoming show which is held at the Cyclone Shelter in Proserpine State Primary School. This year's theme is "Springtime in Proserpine."
Head to the flower show this year to catch up with friends and enjoy local entertainment, surrounded by beautiful flowers, amazing fruit and veg, and delicious home baking.
There are various stalls for you to enjoy during your time at the show, inclusive of, a cake, biscuit, craft, elegant white elephant and plants stall. There is also face painting, marvelous floral art, competitions and raffles, mystery parcels and fabulous entertainment. Morning tea and lunch is also available at the show and fete.
Make sure to enter your prize flowers, fruit, vegetables, orchids and pot plants for a chance to win.
Entry to the show is $5 and children under 14 go free.

WHAT: Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete
WHEN: Saturday 31st August 10am-2pm
WHERE: Proserpine State School

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The Shoreside Long Lunch at Airlie Beach Race Week is an exclusive culinary event that offers a delightful food experience amidst the stunning beauty of the Whitsundays. This ticketed event with limited seats, is a must-attend for those seeking a special and intimate dining experience.
Guests are treated to a sumptuous lunch, featuring a thoughtfully curated menu that showcases the best of local ingredients. The experience begins with an assortment of delectable canapés, an alternate drop entrée and main courses, followed by a delectable petit four dessert.
Including dishes with salmon, succulent pork belly, and a selection of fresh seafood and local produce, providing a true taste of coastal cuisine. Each dish is paired with wines chosen to complement the flavours and enhance the overall dining experience. The careful selection of wines ensures that each course is perfectly balanced, allowing guests to savour every bite and sip.
Adding to the must-do event which will be styled by the fabulous team at TP Events & Styling Whitsundays, are special lucky door prizes, providing attendees with the opportunity to win exclusive gifts. The gifts, which are provided by Mount Gay Rum, Infuse Me Whitsundays and Airlie Beach Festival of Music, ensure a fabulous range of prizes to be won amongst guests.
Set against the backdrop of breathtaking views, the Shoreside Long Lunch is not just a meal but a celebration of food, wine, and the stunning scenery of Airlie Beach. Tickets can be easily purchased by scanning the QR code below, ensuring a seamless and convenient booking process.

Join the Shoreside Long Lunch during Race Week

WHAT: Shoreside Long Lunch
When: Monday 12th August, 2pm onwards
Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club
QR code Caption: Shoreside Long Lunch QR Code

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Proserpine Entertainment Centre is hosting ‘Whalebone,’ a show set to make you laugh out loud, gasp in awe, and let your imagination soar.
Whalebone is said to be filled with eccentric contraptions, strange machinery and clunky inventions and even includes the world’s first half-human juggling machine.
Hidden within the enigmatic ‘Depository,’ the show takes you through a journey with a solitary worker who has a crucial mission. In an era where AI and machines increasingly control our choices, he is dedicated to preserving human stories, memories, and emotions.
This quirky show invites the audience to ponder technology's role in our lives, cleverly sparking conversations about what defines us as humans.

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The Whitsundays Writers Festival is excited to finalise its line-up of fourteen featured local authors in this year’s program.
Festival President, Karen Jacobsen said, "We are thrilled to be partnering with all our featured local authors in providing them a national platform to share their creativity, their journeys, and introduce readers to their new and important Australian stories.”
The festival has announced four new featured local authors.
Sandy Clark is an Airlie Beach local, public speaker and freelance journalist but volunteering for the vulnerable has been her greatest passion for the past fifteen years. In 2015 she self-published My Love Affair with Zambia with book sale proceeds donated to build a small maternity hospital in a northwest Zambian township. Her second memoir will be launched in 2025. Anyone Can Become a Princess is about volunteering and a special promise she gave to a Zambian chief.
Solo sailor, Glynda Joy Parfitt, has been sailing between Sydney and Port Douglas since 2011. Glynda won first prize for a short story when she was 15 and along with writing poetry and songs, she began writing her memoir in 1998. While writing at anchor off Fraser Island, Glynda completed My Memoir Part One: The Pastor’s Wife which is about her slightly eccentric childhood as a Seventh Day Adventist pastor’s daughter, and the 22 years spent with well-known Healing Evangelist John Mellor.
Peter Utber and his wife lived and sailed their small yacht around the coast of Australia for eighteen years before settling in the Whitsundays 24 years ago. He has written numerous short stories and poetry, many published by The Coastal Passage yachting magazine. Peter published his first full length novel in 2020, Demography Day, work of fiction that draws on contemporary fact and Peter’s long term sailing background.
Finally, Festival President, Karen Jacobsen. An international speaker, author, concert artist and songwriter, Karen Jacobsen’s speaking voice unexpectedly led to a unique pop culture status. In over a billion GPS and smartphone devices worldwide, including the original Aussie voice of iPhone ’Siri’, she developed The GPS Girl empowerment brand and is author of two journal style books – The GPS Girl’s Road Map for your Future and Recalculate - The GPS Girl’s 44 Directions for Performance Success.
Festival attendees will have multiple opportunities to meet and learn more about the featured local authors throughout the program.
The festival’s closing event – the Local Author Long Lunch – will be a fitting end to proceedings, including a celebration and showcase of the writing journey of some of the Festival’s Featured Local Authors. This event is open to all and will be held 12:30pm Sunday 8 September at the Whitsunday Marine Club.
The Local Author Long Lunch is proudly supported by the Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale-Proserpine and the Whitsunday Regional Council’s Regional Arts Development Fund.
For program highlights and ticket details visit the festivals website: www.whitsundayswriters.com  
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What: Whitsundays Writers Festival
When: Friday 6 – Sunday 8 September 2024
Where: Airlie Beach

Glynda Joy Parfitt

Karen Jacobsen

Peter Utber

Sandy Clark

Located on the beautiful Bogie River, situated between Bowen and Collinsville is Normanby Road Nature Bush Camp, a vibrant country venue which is set to host an event for all ages this Saturday 3 August.

Country Hoedown is a cash only special event for all to enjoy, with affordable prices, games, activities, live music, dancing, food and BYO alcohol.

Games will entertain young ones for hours and include tug-o-war, sack races, Jenga and other campsite games.

Normanby Road Nature Bush Camp has created a true country vibe, with hay bales, market stalls and a warm bonfire for the chilly winter nights.

Animals are allowed on leash, and generators are permitted as per set times to ensure the serenity of the property is maintained. 

The event is also a fundraiser which will be raising funds for Melanoma research through the local Buck Off Melanoma charitable organisation.

Country Hoedown is a one-day event and admission is just $2. If staying on after 6pm until late a day pass is $10. Normanby Road Nature Bush Camp encourage campers to stay overnight for $10 per person/per night and under 16’s are free.

This is the first time the event has taken place and camp owners and event organisers Paul and Tori Druery are excited to welcome everyone to the party.

“We are really excited to hold our first event, which will have a fun country vibe,” said Paul and Tori Druery.

“We've worked hard to create something from nothing, catering for young and old alike.

“We hope this event will be the first of many, showcasing Whitsunday talent while supporting our local community.”

WHAT: Country Hoedown
WHERE: 148 Normanby Road, Bogie
WHEN: Saturday 3 August, 2pm – Late

Normanby Rd Nature Bush Camp, Photo supplied

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Get ready for an unforgettable Friday night in Airlie Beach as it transforms into a dazzling spectacle of fireworks and live entertainment, courtesy of Sebel Whitsundays! The Great Barrier Reef Festival kicks off with a bang, inviting you, your family, and your friends to experience an electrifying opening night like no other.
At 8:30pm the fireworks will light up the shores casting a mesmerising glow over the Coral Sea – so bring a blanket and get cozy on the beach while the magic begins and watch the kids revel in the excitement of thrilling carnival rides.
If you aren't one for rides, lose yourself in the vibrant atmosphere with an incredible line-up of live music on the main stage that will have you dancing the night away – for a full run down of the sensational artists playing on the night see page 23.
Music is free for everyone. For front row views to the fireworks, the Taste for Treason Party at the Bali Hut Whitsunday Sailing Club will be where it’s at. Tickets are $85 and include a margarita, canapes and entertainment.

Entertainment will be spread along the foreshore with the ever-popular night markets and the Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street providing a delightful culinary experience.
If you're feeling a bit worn out from all the excitement, take a break and enjoy a screening of Finding Nemo on the big screen. Plus, keep an eye out for surprise pop-up performances that are sure to entertain and delight you!

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The Immerse Art Installations are lighting up the Great Barrier Reef Festival again this year.
Scattered across the Airlie Beach foreshore and centered beneath the iconic fig tree, the streets of Airlie will come alive with stories from the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. While the installations are visible by day, the real magic happens at night with pieces illuminated from 6-9 pm.
Beginning in 2021 as a modest segment of the festival, this event has grown significantly and now stands as a major highlight that locals eagerly anticipate each year.
The installation focuses on showcasing sculptured reef creatures and corals crafted from recycled plastic and marine debris. This project also features collaboration with indigenous storytellers from Yooribaya Cultural Experiences, who will also be presenting a traditional welcome, smoking ceremony, and dance as part of the festival's opening ceremony, on Friday at 6:30pm at the Foreshore Stage in Fairy Tree Park.
You’ll be able to explore the exceptional immersive art pieces using a map on the festival website and onsite signage. This map not only guides you through the sea creature-themed installations but also integrates educational elements and the Indigenous names of the marine life.

Animated projections put together by Donna Maire Robinson, from the Immerse Artist Group Lantern Creations, will also be present at this year's event. The signature animation will be visible on the wall of the nearby Heart Hotel.
The immersive art installations are brought to life by facilitator Margaret Burgess, alongside artists Anita Pender, Brigitte Peel, Liz Knight and Noemi Martinez, with creative direction by Margie Murphy.

After exploring all the dazzling light displays at Immerse Art Installations, dive into the excitement of Reef Trivia, hosted by the Coral Sea Academy. This special opening event for the festival will take place at the Coral Sea Marina Resort (South End) and will be an educational evening filled with marine trivia, combined with unbelievable footage and photos of wildlife and their unique behaviours.

Don’t just dip your toes in—immerse yourself in the festival fun!
Immerse – Stories from the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef” is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland

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Immersed Art Installations ready to dazzle

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On Friday night, watch as hand-crafted lanterns illuminate the town with a vibrant sea of color. Enjoy the sight of children's faces glowing with delight as they pass by.
The ever-popular event, is a festival highlight and festival organiser Margie Murphy, emphasised that the Coral Sea Marina Lantern Parade is “one of the signature events.”
The Parade departs from the The Garden Bar Bistro at Coral Sea Marina, bringing colour and light along the Bicentennial Boardwalk, past Sorrento’s Restaurant and Bar and along the foreshore at Fairy Tree Park Main Stage where the Welcome to Country and Traditional dance will commence.
This year, the festival has introduced an all-new exciting element for the Lantern Parade, elevating the event to new heights.
Titled “Light Up the Reef,” this year’s hand-printed lanterns are inspired by the vibrant and colorful life of the Great Barrier Reef. Participants are encouraged to bring along their lanterns and showcase them in the parade.
Once the parade arrives, the reef-themed printed lanterns which have been carefully made by hand, will form an entry to the Airlie Beach foreshore. The art installation and community lanterns will work side by side to create an ethereal space for festival attendees to explore and enjoy.
Prizes will be available for best Lanterns on the night in both the adult and kids' category for the most colourful and the most creative.
There are no registrations for this event, just come along to the meeting spot, and hold your lanterns proudly as the beautiful colours of our Great Barrier Reef emerge.

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Beautiful lanterns at last years’ parade. Photo credit: Tropix Photography

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While the live music is free, you can also book an exclusive VIP area at Point Bar and receive a free cocktail and nibbles with an ocean view.

In addition to its spectacular opening, the Great Barrier Reef Festival features an incredible lineup of live music and entertainment. After watching the dazzling fireworks Friday evening be sure to head on down to the mainstage to see live performances from the amazing internationally known Conrad Sewell, international DJ Charly Templar and local rock bands Gleezus and Category 5! Music and entertainment are free for everyone.
FRIDAY – Beach Vibes
Gleezus
Starting off Friday evening is Gleezus. This locally adored youth band from Bowen has been steadily making a name for themselves, weaving their distinctive sound and vibrant presence into the fabric of Whitsundays' music scene.
Gleezes provide a high-paced, crowd engaging performance that is sure to please audience members, young and old.
With epic original content and a great mix of covers from the rock, grunge and metal genres.
What: Gleezus
Where: Main Stage
When: Friday 2nd August, from 6:30pm
Charly Templar
Get ready to spin some records with International DJ Charly Templar.
Charly Templar is a pioneering open format DJ known for his eclectic mix of crowd-pleasing rhythms. His innovative style seamlessly blends diverse genres, ensuring a dynamic and unforgettable experience for every audience.
With gigs in more than 25 countries, and years of international club experience, combined with his exceptional craft and showmanship, Charly Templar guarantees a highly unique and eclectic set.
Charly Templar will also be hosting a kids DJ workshop on Sunday 4th.
What: Charly Templar
Where: Main Stage
When: Friday 2nd August, from 7:30pm
Conrad Sewell
Get ready to relax into the evening with Conrad Sewell, known for his rich, soulful vocals and poignant songwriting that have earned him international acclaim.
Bursting onto the scene with his chart-topping single "Start Again," Conrad won the ARIA Award for Song of the Year in 2015, establishing himself as a significant force in the music industry.
Conrad continues to release sensational songs, including his latest single, “All Life Long”.
What: Conrad Sewell
Where: Main Stage
When: Friday 2nd August, from 8:45pm

SATURDAY – Beats on the Beach
Saturday night live music kicks off straight after the Rotary Club Street Parade, with Airlie Events Beats on the Beach.
The entertainment will keep you dancing through the night with four top live music acts taking to the foreshore stage. The pop-up bar will be open for beachside bevvies from 6pm and there will be an array of delicious offerings available from Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street
Matty Rogers Band
Beats on the Beach will showcase the widely acclaimed Matty Rogers, who, along with his full band, will deliver an electrifying Americana blues-rock performance infused with soulful vibes on the main stage.
The Matty Rogers Band is celebrated for their tight-knit chemistry, captivating songs, and energetic stage presence. Just one song into their set, and you’ll understand why this talented group has been a sought-after act for some of Australia’s biggest festival stages.
Perry Street Park
Also headlining, will be pop rockers Perry Street Park hailing from the thriving Brisbane music scene.
Having cultivated a sound ready to define the next era of Aussie Rock the four-piece band was Airlie Beach Festival of Music’s 2022 Passport to Airlie winners and are fresh from touring the East coast including Bluesfest 2024.
This special performance is part of their farewell tour so will unfortunately be one of the last times to catch the guys live.
The Diesel Gypsies
Fresh vibrant Whitsunday newcomers, The Diesel Gypsies, will be Saturday nights supporting act. The band have already made waves with their driving blend of rock and blues and healing lyrics.
Zed Charles
Blues rocker Zed Charles will also be a supporting act. The night will include tantalising fire performers.
What: Beats on the Beach
Where: Main Stage
When: Saturday 3rd August, from 6-10pm
SUNDAY
The Jam-packed weekend will conclude with Matty Rogers solo performance, supported by some local artists to help you wind down into the late afternoon.
What: Beats on the Beach
Where: Main Stage
When: Sunday 4th August, from 2-5pm

Charly Templar

Gleezus

Matty Rogers

Perry Street Park

The Diesel Gypsies

Zed Charles

The traffic of Airlie Beach Main Street will come to a halt on Saturday, for an action-packed day of colourful community events that will take over the town.
Starting with the sound of engines, the Revvin the Reef car show will dazzle spectators, with Hot Rods, Muscle and Classic Cars. Car enthusiasts from all over the region are ready to show off their unique vehicles.
Attendees will channel their inner retro enthusiasts, dressing in their finest 50s and 60s attire while enjoying classic tunes from the era.
The day will feature an array of other exciting activities, including roving street performers, engaging street demonstrations, and lively music. Don't miss bluesman Zed Charles, and some emerging youth performers, including Category 5 Duo.
At 3pm, the Wilmar Sugar Wearable Arts Parade will take to the streets, offering a vibrant display of creativity and sustainability. This unique event will feature an array of fashion pieces crafted from recyclable and renewable materials, highlighting the intersection of art and environmental responsibility.
Following shortly after athletes, local runners and anyone brave enough will be warming up for the Coral Coast Fire Magic Mile, as the streets of Airlie are transformed into a racetrack. Be an onlooker and cheer on the runners as they race past you, or why not register and participate yourself?
The afternoon will conclude with the iconic Rotary Club Street Parade, a lively and vibrant finale to the afternoon, where you can watch as creative floats pass you by.
Feeling peckish after all that captivating entertainment? Head on down to the Whitsunday Foodservice Eat Street where you can enjoy a hot bed of food vans ready to sell you a range of delicious dishes and beverages.
After having a bite to eat at the Foreshore Bar, walk around the immersive art installation before gearing yourself up for Saturday night’s Beats on the Beach, where you can listen to exceptional live entertainment brought to you by Airlie Events.
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What: Saturday Street Fun
When: Airlie Beach Main Street
Where: Saturday, August 3rd – all day!

Airlie Beach main street festivities all day this Saturday

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Long before the Great Barrier Reef Festival was established, the iconic Rotary Club Street Parade had already become a vital part of Whitsunday culture and is now a key element of the festival.
There will be fun for all the family showcasing the creativity of the region’s best businesses, schools, community groups and dancers.
The parade’s theme this year is ‘Above and Below,’ which is open to interpretation by institutions, but aligns with the festival’s reef theme.
Organiser of the Great Barrier Reef Festival, Margie Murphy stated that she is really looking forward to seeing everyone’s creations this year:
“We are really excited about the amount of business registrations coming through, and can’t wait to see what they will produce.”
Around 25 entries have been recieved so far this year, but organisers expect the event to be even bigger and better than previous years.
The parade allows both children and adults to enjoy dressing in vibrant, homemade ocean-themed outfits.
Alongside the bright and fabulous outfits, there will also be numerous luminous displays, singing and, of course, lots of lollies.
Judging this year's fantastic event is Mayor Ry Collins, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, and Councillor Jan Clifford.
Festival attendees are invited to line the streets whilst waving to the floats as they pass by, and enjoy the spectacular atmosphere, while keeping a safe distance from the vehicles.
This year's festival has three winning categories, each with a prize and bragging rights up for grabs: best business, best not-for-profit and Most Creative and Wacky.
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What: Rotary Street Parade
When: Saturday, August 3 from 5-6pm
Where: Main Street, Airlie Beach

The GBRF is a non-for-profit community event run by volunteers?

The whole community will get involved tomorrow in the Rotary Street Parade

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition returns in 2024, now hosted at the scenic Whitsunday Sailing Club, offering a stunning setting for the featured artworks.
Under the theme, "Whitsunday Wonders: Above and Below the Surface," artists are encouraged to explore both the land and sea of the region. Capture the stunning landscapes, skies, and coastal beauty above, or dive into the intricate marine world, highlighting the symbiotic wonders and delicate relationships that characterise the Great Barrier Reef.
All selected artworks will be on display for individuals to enjoy in Whitsunday Sailing Club from August 1 to August 5, with brilliant prizes up for grabs!

What: Creative Connections Art Exhibition
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When: EXHIBITION OPENING HOURS:
Thursday 1 August - 6pm to 8pm Opening Night
Friday, 2 August to Monday, 5 August - 9 am to 4pm
Tuesday, 6 August 9:30 am - Announcement of raffle and People's Choice

Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club

Art Show takes center stage

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Get ready, get set, and go head down to the Ark Energy Family Fun Day, one of the Great Barrier Reef festival’s well-loved events.
This jam-packed day filled with free, crazy, fun and exciting demonstrations, games, competitions and entertainment galore on Airlie Beach’s beautiful foreshore with activities and fantastic prizes up for grabs.
Donut miss the delicious donut-eating competition that kicks off the day's festive fun! Once your tummies are settled, get ready for thrilling races, exciting circus workshops, captivating juggling shows, and an interactive treasure hunt, with the treasure hunt winner being crowned at 2pm.
If that's not enough to fill your boots, International DJ Charly Templar will be hosting DJ workshops for kids, while Nick Wynne Jones will be producing some fabulous face painting.
With a focus on interactive reef education, the Eco Barge sculpture tent and various other stalls will be manned by various conservation, government and science groups. Daydream Island will be present showing the corals and information from their Living Reef and coral restoration program. Also, the Ngaro and Giya Traditional Owners will be running interactive workshops where the kids can participate in storytelling, weaving, ochre painting and having a ‘go’ at throwing a boomerang or spear among others.
Alongside all this extraordinary entertainment Ark Energy and a selection of Whitsunday local tour operators including Cruise Whitsunday’s and Ocean Rafting will be on hand to help the kids have fun learning about the reef system ending in the famous treasure hunt, with some amazing prizes.
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What: Family Fun Day
When: Sunday, August 4 from 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore

Enjoy some Family fun on Sun. Photo credit: Tropix Photography

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Calling all athletes, wannabe athletes and fun runners to the Coral Coast Fire Magic Mile.
This year’s event is once again hosted by the Whitsunday Running Club adding another element of fun to an already exciting day.
The event encourages anyone to participate, and the main aim of the day is to have fun!
The mile run, originating in England as a gambling distance, has persisted despite track and field's shift to metric measurements in the 1900s. It gained prominence with the quest for the four-minute mile in the 1950s and remains the only imperial distance for which the IAAF keeps an official world record. The current world record holders are Morocco's Hicham El Guerrouj and Russia's Svetlana Masterkova.
Come get stuck into some running and history with the Magic Mile Run!
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What: Magic Mile Race
When: Saturday, 3 August from 4-5pm
Where: Main Street, Airlie Beach

On your marks!

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Ahoy! All aboard for sustainability. Hoist your sails, grab your ores and get ready for the Recyclable Regatta. Set to be a day of environmental fun, full of competition and creativity.
The Recyclable Regatta is one of the festival’s favourite events that brings the community together.
The rafts, which are created by recyclable materials, including bottles, plastic pipes, crates and more are prepared ahead of the event.
While rafts must be made of recyclables, any type of oar or paddle can be used during the event. Previous years have seen some great entries and 2024 is shaping up to be a great competition.  
Starting at 10 a.m. on Sunday, teams will race from Airlie Beach around a buoy and back to the finish line on the foreshore, creating an exhilarating display for spectators.
Organiser, Beth Sutherland, says she is most looking forward to seeing the kid's excitement on the day:
“Seeing the kids showing off their creations and getting the boats across the finish line still in one piece is no easy task, that's the most exciting bit for sure.”
All crew members in the raft must cross the line to complete the race.
This year, there has been an increase to 4 divisions: Children aged 6-12 and 13-17, Adults 18+, and local businesses.
May yer anchor be ever tight!

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What: Whitsunday Escape Recyclable Regatta
Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore
When: Sunday, 4 August 9:30-11:00am
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Sustainable pirates take to the seas!

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Friday 26 July
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Geed Up After Dark (7pm – 10pm)
Reef Gateway: Jan Arns (6pm – 9pm)
Jubilee Tavern: Kieran Mc (6pm – 9pm)
KC’s: Alex Kosenko (from 8pm)

Saturday 27 July
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Geed Up (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Reef Gateway: Sam McCann (6pm – 9pm)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Live Music (from 1pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dave Johan (from 9pm)
KC’s Sar-Rah (from 8pm)

Sunday 28 July
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Geed Up (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Scott Wilson (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Whisper Restaurant & Gin Bar: Alex Kosenko (from 1pm)
Grand View Hotel: Danny Worland (4pm – 8pm)
KC’s: Alex Kosenko (from 8pm)

Monday 29 July
KC’s: Boldy (from 8pm)

Tuesday 30 July
KC’s: Boldy (from 8pm)

Wednesday 31 August
KC’s: Graeme Rix (from 8pm)

Thursday 1 August
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC’s: Fergus (from 8pm)

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July
26 Trivia Night Fundraiser, Tom Gard Centre, St Catherine’s College, 7pm
28 Airlie Beach Triathlon, Airlie Beach Lagoon, from 5am
28 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval, from 3pm
31 The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm

August
1-4 Great Barrier Reef Festival, Airlie Beach, from 9am
2 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Finding Dory, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
6 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6 Whalebone, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm and 6pm
8-15 Airlie Beach Race Week
8 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
8 Eskimo Joe, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
9 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Ice Age & Hook, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Morning Melodies – A Farewell to Doris, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 11am
15 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
20 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Thanks Doc, Larrikin Hotel, from 5.30pm
25 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 6pm
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm
31 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete, Cyclone Shelter, Primary school, Sterry St, Proserpine. 

September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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The region is bustling with activity ahead of the upcoming Great Barrier Reef Festival which is due to take place from 1-4 August.
Many people within the community are enjoying last minute preparations, putting the finishing touches on their immersive art pieces, lanterns and recyclable rafts and perfecting their wearable art costumes. Athletes are gearing up for the Magic Mile, car-lovers revving their engines. In town, shops are starting to deck themselves out in festive decorations in anticipation of this grand event.
Event organiser, Margie Murphy, stated that she is looking forward to seeing the activities come to life:
“There's so much art and entertainment going on, and the most exciting part is the interactive events where everyone from the community gets involved.”
The event kicks off on Thursday the 1st August, with the opening of the festival Art Exhibition at Whitsunday Sailing Club and Immersive Reef Trivia at Coral Sea Marina Lookout Lounge. The Reef Trivia is hosted by Master Reef Guide James Unsworth and is a fun, educational evening filled with trivia and footage of marine creatures and their unique behaviours.
Now is also the time to start booking your tickets for the special experiences the festival has on offer. These include the Exclusive Reef Experience led by Cruise Whitsundays Master Reef Guides, the all-new Taste for Treason event and the Camira Twilight and Fireworks Cruise.
The Exclusive Reef Experience is an informative and rewarding tour which will get you up close with coral formations and giant clams whilst you learn about reef ecology. You will also get the opportunity to see turtles, parrotfish, angel fish and clown fish.
Experience the Friday night fireworks in style at the festival’s new ‘Taste for Treason’ event, at The Bali Hut, Whitsunday Sailing Club. The event is brought by Whitsundays own ‘Act of Treason’ Agave spirit, tickets to this exclusive soiree include an Australian Margarita on arrival perfectly paired with sensory canapes by Whisper Events and Catering, alongside entertainment consisting of fire twirlers and roving performers, and tantalising tunes from DJ Bad Girl.
Or finish off your Friday with a drink in hand cruising around the bay, while the sun sets around you and fireworks fly over the water on the Camira Twilight and Fireworks Cruise.
If you don't fancy booking one of the tours, there is lots of free events that you can enjoy at the festival. One of the free events you can enjoy is the Sebel Whitsundays Fireworks on the Foreshore.
The evening will open with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony by Yooribaya Cultural Experiences followed by traditional dance performance.
The festivities include a showing of the much-loved prequel ‘Finding Dory,’ where you can unwind at the Airlie Beach outdoor Cinema.
As dusk arrives the ever expanding and enchanting art installation ‘Immerse’ will light up showcasing the beauty of the underwater world.
The non-for-profit event, hosts plenty of entertainment including performances from the amazing internationally known Conrad Sewell, international DJ Charly Templar and local rock band Gleezus. While all this amazing entertainment is free, there is a small charge of $10 for entry to the bar.
For a week full of laughter, fun, and excitement, book your tickets or head on down for some free entertainment at the GBRF.

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What: Great Barrier Reef Festival
Where: Airlie Beach
When: 1-4 August 2024

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Lanterns to light the streets of Airlie Beach
Magic Mile countdown begins
Set sail with Camira Twilight and Fireworks cruise

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Nicky Bomba and Bustamento are returning to the Airlie Beach Hotel next Saturday for an ultimate island inspired party.
Lead singer-songwriter Nicky Bomba, described the band as “classic early mento and calypso music, which was the forerunner to all Ska and reggae”
“It's very danceable, tropical vibes with lots of sunshine and joy.”
The band has been going for nearly 20 years, and was formed after seeing a classic mentos show in Germany:
“We thought, ‘we could do this’, because it was kind of a similar thing to what we already did.”
Nicky also explained the reasoning behind the band's name:
“The reason why we named the band Bustamento is because, Jamaica's first prime minister was called Sir Alexander Bustamante and Prince Buster, which is one of our favorite artists was named after him and in Malta, where I was born, Bustamente is a boat.”
After one release and a tour around the world, the band added some new flavours they’d encountered on their travels to their musical mix for a second recording. To a reggae and steel pan calypso base, they incorporated elements of other sounds: Motown, pop, New Orleans boogie, tons of groove.
When asked what his favourite song from the band was Nicky replied:
“It's like saying what is my favourite child, however, one of the songs that works well and has done well for us is Coconut Woman.”
Nicky and the band are excited to escape the cold and snowy Victoria alpine region and head to the sunny Whitsundays and Nicky said that he loves visiting Airlie Beach:
“It's always a great vibe, and the people are always up for a dance and, music really kind of connects up there, so we've got lots of friends up there too. So, it's just nice to connect and play our music.”
Nicky mentioned how the audience can expect their own “special little party,” where they can dance and connect with the band and attendees should get ready for an interactive performance.
If Bustamento coming to town isnt enough... Nicky Bomba and the band are also doing their “One Love” Bob Marley Tribute performance on the Sunday.
Nicky explained how “the instrumentation of many of the Marley tunes are quite different and intricate,” so the musicians in the band are “world-class.”
The performance will consist mainly of Bob Marley tunes, Nicky mentioned how he had done a fair amount of research on Marley’s life trajectory and the performance will encompass a historical journey through the reggae legend’s life.
Nicky and the band, being full-time musicians have a few bands Nicky said his highlights have been playing for different festivals, doing a national tour, receiving awards and their work receiving overseas recognition in the UK.
Nicky says to look up Bustamento and the award-winning Melbourne Ska orchestra (which they also perform in) on Spotify and looks forward to both their performances in Airlie Beach:
“If you’re coming to the event, come and say hello and, and shake a leg.”
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Nicky Bomba and the Band

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Stage show adaption of the much loved and award-winning picture book ‘The Gruffalo’ is returning to Australia.

Showing at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre (PEC) this is a show not to miss out on.

Filled with songs, laughs and fun this is a show for children 3 and upwards.

Join Mouse as she sets off on an adventure through the deep dark woods.

On her journey, Mouse encounters hungry woodland animals; a cunning Fox, an eccentric Owl and a party mad Snake.

To escape these hungry foes, Mouse tells them a tale about the terrifying Gruffalo, but she’s made it up hasn’t she, it doesn’t actually exist right.

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The Gruffalo and Mouse, Photo supplied

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Coinciding with the Great Barrier Reef Festival, Rough As Guts (RAG) 45th reunion is taking place at the Airlie Beach Hotel next Friday.

Celebrating their 45th reunion anniversary, RAG celebrates people that lived in Airlie Beach in the 70’s and 80’s.

In 2019, the reunion saw over 50 people attend coming from all over Australia, and this year they expect similar numbers.

Rough as Guts President Ashley Kennedy said “The fact that we can still pull together people that lived in Airlie Beach in the 70’s and 80’s is great and I can’t think of another social club that can put these together.”

“It’s fantastic that people can gather and still talk about the early 80’s.

“It’s a unique gathering of people that enjoyed themselves in the prime time of Airlie Beach, when Airlie Beach had just kicked off as a tourist town.”

What: Rough As Guts (RAG) Reunion
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Friday 2 August

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The long-awaited blockbuster ‘Deadpool and Wolverine’ is now showing at Bowen Summergarden Cinema.

Known for his crude humour and hilarious loudmouth Deadpool teams up with the serious Wolverine, played by Australian actor Hugh Jackman.

In this third instalment in the Deadpool franchise, Deadpool and a recovering Wolverine must team up together to defeat a common enemy.

Deadpool’s unseriousness and witty jokes has fans of the superhero genre excited to see the duo’s chemistry on the big screen.

‘Deadpool and Wolverine’ is rated MA15+ and premieres tonight at Bowen Summergarden Cinema at 6:45pm, tickets cost $10.

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Photo supplied, IMDB.

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A grassroots event like no other the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival returns on July 27 and 28, promising an exhilarating weekend of swimming, riding and running action.
 
Whitsunday Triathlon Club President and Race Director Micky Kimpton said the annual event is now in its 24th year and continues to attract athletes and spectators from around Australia and internationally, showcasing the Whitsundays as a premier destination for sports.
 
“We have a record field of professional male and female athletes this year along with record entries in the Olympic Distance triathlon and a record juniors’ field on the Saturday afternoon,” he said.
 
“The 2024 event will deliver a triathlon finishing line experience like no other with Olympic swim legend Susie O’Neill presenting the finisher medals while the voice that has greeted Ironman and 70.3 finishers across the world, Pete Murray will call your finishing chute glory.
 
“We have also upgraded our already amazing race bag goodies for triathlon entrants with goggles, towel and swim bags included across the different race categories.
 
“Our aim is to turn back the clock to the good old days and offer the average triathletes a memorable experience on race day and value for money for their entry fee,” Kimpton said.
 
“The festival also encourages local community engagement with various volunteer opportunities and support roles, fostering a strong sense of local pride and involvement.
 
“The two-day event features races for all levels, including elite athletes, amateurs, juniors, and relay teams, ensuring an inclusive and competitive atmosphere.
 
“Thanks to valuable sponsors Corry Cycles, for the first time, we will be giving away two brand new bikes as random draw prizes to junior triathletes, adding an extra element of excitement and reward for our young athletes.
 
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival is more than just a sporting event; it's a celebration of sport and community in a unique location, the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef.
 
“Council is proud to be a sponsor for this event and it is exciting to attract such a top-quality field of professional triathletes racing here in Airlie Beach.
 
“This event truly highlights the best of the Whitsundays, and I encourage everyone to come out, support the athletes, and enjoy the festivities."
 
The junior triathlons commence at 2pm on Saturday afternoon, July 27 followed by the ocean swims at 3.15pm while the main action gets underway on Sunday, July 28 with the Olympics distance, Sprint and Enticer and teams triathlons commencing from 6.30am.
 
The weekend will culminate in an amazing Celebrations Banquet at the Pier at Coral Sea Marina Resort on Sunday evening.

WHAT: Coral Sea Marina Resort Airlie Beach Triathlon Festival
WHEN: 27-28 July

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Last Saturday, Lake Proserpine was transformed into a tranquil oasis, featuring enchanting acoustic folk music and delectable food, all set against a breathtaking lakeside backdrop.
Visitors, relaxed by Lake Proserpine soaking in the ethereal atmosphere, as musicians played. They danced and sang along to well-known tunes, all while watching the sun go down above the hills and lake in the horizon.
While there was the option for day visitors, many attendees chose to camp at Lake Proserpine Camping Ground.
The festival had a selection of food stalls including a pizza and waffle stall; however, many individuals brought their own picnics and drinks.
Once the stars came out, individuals retreated back to their cars, tents and caravans for the end to ‘The Reef Trail,’ and what was a lively afternoon full of music, laughter and sun.

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Do you like Karaoke? If the answer is yes, Airlie Beach Hotel invites you to join them on Wednesday 31st July for, Bar Manager, Matthew Rowley’s, 41st Birthday.
Rowley told Whitsunday Life that his Karaoke Party Birthday this year is set to be “bigger and better,” than previous years.
“We always laugh, and it’s always a good time,” Rowley enthused.
The Bar Manager’s go-to karaoke song this year is, ‘Burning Love’ by Elvis Presley, but we can expect to hear lots of other songs from Rowley throughout the night:
“I’m going to try to do lots of songs, I’m sure I’ll be dragged up on stage whether I like it or not!” he Joked.
Rowley added that on the night attendees can expect, “lots of singing, lots of dancing, lots of karaoke and lots of people just having a good old time.”
When asked what Rowley was looking forward to most about the evening, he stated that he was looking forward to seeing some old faces:
“Catching up with lots of old friends, usually a lot of people come out of the woodwork, so it’s always good to catch up and have a drink.”
The event is held in the Airlie Beach Hotel Sports Bar. The bar has a whopping 29 BIG screens, three of which will be used for the Karaoke evening. The bar even has the largest screen in town measuring an impressive 9m x 2m.
The sports bar is open 7 days a week from 10am and tries to show, “every sporting event they can,” Rowley added.
“If you want a good old time, a good laugh and good service, come on down!” Rowley emphasised.
While Rowley’s birthday is set to be epic, the fun is preceded by Airlie beach Hotel’s fan favourites ‘Geed Up’ who are performing on the 26th, 27th and 28th July.
Combining comedy, live music hits and genres from all periods, alongside, some of the best and most exciting dance moves in the world, Geed Up covers all bases of entertainment.
Geed Up is a collection of characters and misfits with abilities ranging from singing with sultry voices creating 3-piece harmonies, Hip-Hop dancing including high energy choreography, break dancing and intense acrobatics, to even elements of DJ’ing, Rapping and light shows. Creating what Geed Up claim is “the most unique experience and show that Australia and the world have ever seen.”
The show will consist of 3 performances including a special “after dark,” event Friday night July 26th from 8pm.
For some fantastic entertainment, head on down to the Airlie Beach Hotel for a night of birthday karaoke that is set to be ‘pitcher perfect,’ or an evening of belly laughs and good music and dance with Geed Up.
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Sing your heart out with Rowley for his birthday karaoke night

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What: Rowley’s 41st Birthday Karaoke
When: 31st July 2024 (6:30pm -9:30pm)
Where: Airlie Beach Sports Bar

What: Geed Up Show
When: 26th (8pm-9:30pm) 27th, 28th July 2024 (2pm-5:30pm).
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel

Bar Manager, Matthew Rowley is inviting us all to his Karaoke Birthday Party
Airlie beach Hotel’s fan favourites ‘Geed Up’ will be performing on the same week. Photos supplied

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July
20 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 1pm
21 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6am
23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Trivia Night Fundraiser, Tom Gard Centre, St Catherine’s College, 7pm
28 Airlie Beach Triathlon, Airlie Beach Lagoon, from 5am
28 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval, from 3pm
31 The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm

August
1-4 Great Barrier Reef Festival, Airlie Beach, from 9am
2 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Finding Dory, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
6 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6 Whalebone, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm and 6pm
8-15 Airlie Beach Race Week
8 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
8 Eskimo Joe, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
9 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Ice Age & Hook, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Morning Melodies – A Farewell to Doris, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 11am
15 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
20 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
25 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 6pm
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm
31 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete, Cyclone Shelter, Primary school, Sterry St, Proserpine. 

September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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Friday 19th July
Grandview Hotel: Whitts End Live (8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm-10pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm-8pm)

Saturday 20th July
Coral Sea Resort Hotel:  DJ Karma (2-6pm)
KC’s: 20th Chris Booroof (from 8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: House Too Crowded (2-5:30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7-10pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm-4pm/5-8pm)

Sunday 21st July
Colonial Palms: Live Jazz Music, Nick De Gregorio and Loui Battour
KC’s: Chris Booroff (From 8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: House Too Crowded (2-5:30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (6:30-9:30pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm-4pm)

Monday 22nd July
KC’s: Alex Chrisenco (from 8pm)

Wednesday 24th July
KC’s: Zed Charles (from 8pm)

Thursday 25th July
KC’s: Zed Charles (from 8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6:30-9:30pm)

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The Proserpine Entertainment Centre will stage multi award winning performer, Darren Coggan as he returns to his country roots with “The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver”.

The performance, set for Wednesday 31 July, hopes to deliver the vocal authenticity of one of the most passionate performers of all time with Darren personally reflecting and respectfully honouring the indelible voice behind songs that the world sang along with.

Universal anthems including Take Me Home Country Roads, Rocky Mountain High, Annie’s Song, Perhaps Love, Thank God I’m A Country Boy, Calypso, Leaving on A Jet Plane and many more will play part in what has been described as an “outstanding” performance.

What: The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver
When: Wednesday 31 July 1pm – 2:30pm
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

TICKETS: proserpineentertainmentcentre.com

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On Thursday 1 August, the community is invited to witness the musical talents of the Australian Vocal Ensemble with their Thought is Surrounded by a Halo performance at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.

Led by Artistic Director, Katie Noonan, the Australian Vocal Ensemble combines heavenly vocals in a chamber setting, intertwining Australian compositions with new arrangements of Bach, Handel and Tomás Luis de Victoria.

The outstanding performance will feature new works based on the poetry of iconic Queensland poets, Gwen Harwood and David Malouf, creating a beautiful tension between ties to more traditional vocal music and modern Australian classical.

Established in 2021, the Australian Vocal Ensemble works to showcase Australia’s rich, diverse narratives through exploring and celebrating stories from the oldest living culture seamlessly intertwined with the contemporary sounds of Australia's finest living composers. 

What: Australian Vocal Ensemble – Thought is Surrounded by a Halo
When: Thursday 1 August
Where: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival is gearing up for another exciting weekend of family fun and, to prepare for another stunning lantern parade, the community are invited to come along to a special Lantern Making Workshop this weekend.

Held at the Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, the workshop commences at 10am and finishes at 2pm.

This completely free event is open to anyone in the community and is an opportunity for people to work alongside inspiring local artists including renowned lantern artist Lalune Croker.

Immerse yourself in arts and culture and be part of something great by enjoying this vibrant workshop setting.

All equipment – from glue to scissors and coloured tissue paper – are all supplied free of charge.

The inspiring advise of local artists will also be on-hand throughout the session.

This year, the festival is launching a brand-new theme for the Coral Sea Marina Lantern Parade and taking the event to a new level.

Named ‘Light Up The Reef’, the theme of this years’ lantern parade takes inspiration from the living reef and participants at the workshop will be tasked with creating reef themed lanterns to join the parade.

These will then be brought together with a variety of other creative lanterns to form the new installation which will be located at Fairy Tree Park.

Designed and produced by four local artists Anita Pender, Brigitte Peel, Margie Murphy and Noemi Martinez, this installation will highlight the colours and textures of the reef. 

The Lantern Parade is due to take place on Friday 2nd August and parade participants will once again be led from Coral Sea Marina along the boardwalk to the festival precinct.

Once the parade arrives, the reef-themed printed lanterns will form an entry to the Airlie Beach foreshore where the art installation and community lanterns sit together in this beautiful space for festival attendees to explore.

Head down to the Lantern Making Workshop this Saturday to be part of this fantastic event. No bookings are required, and children of any age are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

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WHAT: Free Lantern Workshop
WHERE: Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre
WHEN: Saturday 20th July 10am – 2pm

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Last years’ Lantern Making Workshop was a huge success. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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The Whitsundays will overflow with literature and creativity when the highly anticipated Whitsundays Writers Festival graces the region from 6 to 8 September.

After a seven-year hiatus, the festival has been dearly missed by both locals and travellers, and its triumphant return promises to host a celebration of words, writers, and readers, rekindling the literary flame in the heart of Queensland.

“The time is here!” shared Festival President, Karen Jocobsen.

“We are excited to release the full Festival Program, and some events are strictly limited, so book your tickets early!”

The full, star-studded Festival Program features many highly talented and commendable literary professionals who are set to host a collection of exciting events, and sessions for Festival attendees to enjoy.

Along with 14 Featured Local Authors, the talents of Shankari Chandran, Garry Disher, Sally Hepworth, Kirsty Manning, Christos Tsiolkas, Anne Buist, Graeme Simsion, Karina Kilmore, Melissa Ashley, Jack Roney, Joy Damousi, Nick Earls, and Linsday Simpson will be staged over the September weekend.

Here is a sneak peek of the festival itinerary:

Friday 6 September will be held at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, featuring the following sessions, or program chapters:
   • The Art and Joy of Storytelling.
   • Cops and Robbers: Writing and reading crime and thrillers.
   • Responsible Writing? Stories about people, relationships, the world and possible ramifications.
   • Spotlight On: Writing craft, from first draft to final manuscript.
   • For Quill to Code: Is artificial intelligence revolutionising or ruining the future of creative writing?
   • Poetry Karaoke: Over drinks and a Whitsundays sunset, attendees can get up to the mic and share their verse in an intimate and supportive atmosphere. This event will also include readings of the shortlisted Whitsundays Literary Heart Award Poetry Prize submissions.
On Saturday 7 September, a number of stand-out occasions:
   • From the Heart: The inaugural Festival Address by Shankari Chandran.
   • Whitsundays Literary Heart Award announcements for the Gloria Burley Award for Best Unpublished Manuscript, Best Short Story (adult and under 18 divisions), Poetry Prize, and Best Published Book Cover Design.
   • Adaptation: From page to stage and screen.
   • Spotlight On: Research and bringing authenticity to fiction.
   • Hour of Power: Meet your favourite author and have your book signed by guest speakers and Featured Local Authors.
   • The Big Book Club High Tea featuring Sally Hepworth and Kristy Manning.

To conclude the 2024 Whitsundays Writers Festival, Sunday 8 September will include a number of sessions including a new release showcase, discovery sessions on having the courage to share your story, writing for personal and professional development, traditional, hybrid and self-publishing and memoir.

The Festival will come to an official close following the Local Author Long Lunch which will stand as a fitting end to proceedings with the inclusion of a writing journey showcase of some of the Festival’s Featured Local Authors.

“The transformation of books and the love of reading is so important for the young and old alike,” said Karen.

“We look forward to bringing readers and writers together at this fantastic event.”

Tickets for the wonderful weekend are available now, however are strictly limited. Visit the Festival website for program details, speaker profiles, and tickets: www.whitsundayswriters.com.

What: Whitsundays Writers Festival
When: 6 to 8 September
More Information: www.whitsundayswriters.com

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Queensland and New South Wales are going head-to-head again on Wednesday for the third match in the State of Origin series and this one will be the decider following a 1 all draw from the previous two games.

To celebrate this tight competition and cheer on the players, Whitsunday Sportspark is inviting the community to their new Club House to enjoy a lively evening of sporting excitement as the two historic rivals vie for the title once again.

As everyone knows, footy is a game best shared and this is an exciting opportunity to experience the new sporting club house venue to watch the match on one of the several large screens.

The action begins at 6pm when the Club House opens. There will be pizza on offer and the bar will be open to sell cold drinks to patrons.

President of Whitsundays Sportspark, Justin Butler, said he is excited to showcase the new venue.

“This will be a great opportunity to get a feel for the Club which officially opens later in the year,” he expressed.

The match itself kicks off at 8pm and everyone is invited to participate in the “Battle of the Codes” competition to see which sports code has the most committed and best dressed supporters there on the night.

The prize to the winning code will be a day trip for two to the Islands with Red Cat Adventures.

This is a family friendly event and completely free for the community.

Pizza is available for $5 per person and the bar will be open from 6pm – 10pm.

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WHAT: State Of Origin Decider
WHERE: Whitsunday Sportspark
WHEN: Wednesday 17th July
TICKETS: Free to the community

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Coming to Airlie Beach Hotel next weekend is the spectacular ‘House Too Crowded’ band – this 6-piece band consists of a group of men all in their 30’s and 40’s.
Frontman, Glenn Starr, describes the band as: “fun, outgoing and very professional musos,” that are “dedicated” to getting the sound of Australian and New Zealand icons ‘Crowded House’ and ‘Split Enz’ as “close to the original recordings,” as possible.
The band started up amid the pandemic in 2019 and was put on hold during this period. However, since Covid-19, the band has been full steam ahead and has been performing now for about a year and a half.
When asked, the band’s background, Glenn, answered that they had been looking for a “gap in the market and what was needed in the cover band scene.”
Speaking to a few agents about what they think would sell, Glenn added that the response they, “got back was a good Crowded House and Split Enz show.”
Having found their niche, they got rehearsing and recording. While still in the early stages, Glenn enthused how they are building an audience and aiming to play in bigger venues.
Glenn mentioned the band’s highlights, which consist of, “sold out shows,” and them “coming to Airlie Beach,” to perform at the Airlie Beach Hotel.
“Being able to travel interstate with the band is great,” Glenn emphasised.
In their show, Glenn says how audience members can expect two Crowded House and Split Enz sets, including “all the hits and all the big songs.” The show will conclude with some party anthems consisting of a mixture of old Aussie classics and some international tunes from the 70s, 80s and 90s.
Glenn emphasised how the band is always trying to get as close to the original sound of Crowded House and Split Enz as possible:
“I think a lot of people will be blown away by how authentic the sound is.”
Despite covering much of the music from Crowded House and Split Enz, Glenn claims that they are not a tribute band but more of a “dedication.”
Outside of the band, the member’s professions range from working in logistics in the Army, to full time Musicians and Judo Instructors.
Have you been to Airlie Beach before?
“I've been to the docks of Airlie Beach while performing on a cruise ship; I've never been able to get off because I've had my show that night so I've had to rehearse, so, I'm looking forward to finally having a look around Airlie beach.”
Glenn also added how coming to Airlie Beach is, “A first for the band, and first for many of the guys.”
Glenn encourages all to come down and see House Too Crowded live in action:
“If you're a crowd house fan, or just a fan of great music and great players, you're really going to enjoy this show.”
“We do a lot of crowd banter, a lot of crowd participation, so, we get the audience involved and we just have a lot of fun.”
Head on down to Airlie Beach Hotel and enjoy a performance full of Rock n’ Roll with House Too Crowded.

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What: House Too Crowded
When: 20th & 21st July 2024
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel

House Too Crowded. Photo Credits: Iska Photography (@iskaphotography).

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Bowen Tourism and Business is holding a networking event next week and all members are invited to come along, connect with others and enjoy a lively evening.

The event is free to all members of Bowen Tourism and Business and is being held just before National Mango Day.

The event will be held at Bird’s Fish Bar next Thursday, July 18 from 5.30pm.

It is National Mango Day each year on July 22.

It is hoped the members of Bowen Tourism and Business will take the opportunity to come along and meet other business owners and hear about what the organisation is achieving.

Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery said it had been some time since the organisation had held a networking event and the committee believed the timing was just right.

“We have just finished the financial year so we can update our members on key achievements and visitor numbers,” she said.

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the team of staff and volunteers were really looking forward to the event.

“This is a great chance to bring the business community together,” she said.

If members would like to attend, they should email info@tourismbowen.com.au by Monday or give the Bowen Visitor Information Centre a call on 47864222.

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Friday 12th July
KC’s: Phoenix Revival (from 8pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (5pm-8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (6:30pm-9:30pm)
Grandview Hotel: Tim Johnstone (8pm – 12am)

Saturday 13th July
Coral Sea Resort Hotel: DJ Exceltek (2pm-6pm)
Whitsunday Sailing Club: Live Music (1pm-4pm)
KC’s: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)
Grandview Hotel: De Ja Vu (Band) (8pm – 12am)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Kiss Thiss (2pm-5:30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (7pm-10pm)

Sunday 14th July
KC’s: Noah Davies (from 8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Kiss Thiss (2pm-5:30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (6:30pm-9:30pm)
Coral Sea Resort Hotel: Simon Briley (2pm-6pm)
Grandview Hotel: Mike Duff (8pm – 12am)

Monday 15th July
KC’s: Boldy (from 8pm)

Tuesday 16th July
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)

Wednesday 17th July
KC’s: Ferg (from 8pm)

Thursday 18th July
KC’s: Ferg (from 8pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Whits End (6:30pm-9:30pm)

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July
12 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Rio, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
13 Suicide Prevention Fundraiser, Reef Gateway Hotel, from 5.30pm
16 The Sunshine Club, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
20 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 1pm
21 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6am
23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
28 Airlie Beach Triathlon, Airlie Beach Lagoon, from 5am
28 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval, from 3pm
31 The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm

August
1-4 Great Barrier Reef Festival, Airlie Beach, from 9am
2 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Finding Dory, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
6 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6 Whalebone, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm and 6pm
8-15 Airlie Beach Race Week
8 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
8 Eskimo Joe, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
9 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Ice Age & Hook, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Morning Melodies – A Farewell to Doris, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 11am
15 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
20 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
25 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 6pm
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm
31 Proserpine Whitsunday Uniting Church Flower Show & Fete, Cyclone Shelter, Primary school, Sterry St, Proserpine. 

September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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“We're a full makeup, full theatrical, Kiss Tribute Show”, founding member of ‘Kiss Thiss’, Lindsay West enthused.
Emulating the legendary concert experience of Kiss, four bandmates ranging from police officers to tradies in their day-to-day lives – deliver a spectacular performance complete with authentic makeup, costumes and even the same guitars used by Kiss.
“We also do the fire breathing, blood spitting and smoking guitar,” Lindsay added.
The band want their audience to have the complete Kiss experience and have all the effects and props to ensure that they get that.
Starting up due to Kiss not touring “all that much”, the die-hard fans created the band which is in its remarkable 21st year, having performed the act since 2003. Lindsay added how the band was a “good outlet” for the members.
The four band-mates are eager to showcase what they have got at the Airlie Beach Hotel where they will be performing their Kiss act, with a few additional non-kiss related songs.
After their main performance, Lindsay added that the band will “scrub their faces and get changed,” for a finishing traditional party cover set.
Lindsay reminisced over the band's highlights this year, which included touring on some international cruise lines and performing at the New Year's Eve Festival in Mackay.
The band are really excited to get over to Airlie Beach and perform at the Airlie Beach Hotel, where Lindsay says they have “never been before.”
Lindsay added, that they are excited to get out of cold Melbourne which is currently “eight degrees,” and come up to the sunny Whitsundays, which he has heard has much better weather.
The band has also been wanting to come and play in Airlie for a long time:
“We have been trying to get up to Airlie for a few years now. Now that we're being given the shot, we hope it's the first of many.”
Head on down to see Kiss Thiss live in action on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th July.
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What: Kiss Thiss Tribute Band
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th July from 2pm – 5.30pm
Tickets: You don’t need them! But booking a table is recommended.

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Friday 5 July
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Reef Gateway: The Hillbilly Goats (6pm – 9pm)
Jubilee Tavern: Rebelquin (6pm – 9pm)
Grand View Hotel: Dave Johan (8pm – 12am)

Saturday 6 July
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Soul Cutz (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Reef Gateway: David Flower (6pm – 9pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (8pm – 12am)

Sunday 7 July
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Soul Cutz (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Mike Vaughan (4pm – 8pm)

Thursday 11 July
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Mat Stokes (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

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Situated on the beautiful Lake Proserpine the first Barra and Boots Country Music Festival was a huge success earlier this year and there is plenty more to come!

With over 500 people present at Barra and Boots it was an unforgettable experience for the country music enthusiasts who had a huge day filled with exceptional country artists.

Day trippers and campers had travelled far and wide to be there and famous acts such as Adam Brand, Sara Storer, Andrew Swift, Portia Clark all took to the stage and provided great vibes!

The atmosphere started relaxed but as the sunset provided a vibrant backdrop across the lake it picked up and people were out of their seats and hitting the dance floor.

Attendees enjoyed the backdrop of the Lake Proserpine campground which showcased its beauty and ability to host large scale events. Due to its success, discussions have commenced to bring the event back bigger and better in 2025.

Meanwhile, On Saturday 13 July, Lake Proserpine will host its next music event, the "Reef Sundowner," presented by Queensland Music Trails.

This free event is a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together and support local music.

Director of Commercial Businesses, Craig Turner, stated, "I encourage everyone interested to book a free ticket and attend. The more support we show as locals, the better we can demonstrate that Lake Proserpine is an ideal location for such great events."

What: “Reef Sundowner” by QLD Music Trails
Where: Lake Proserpine
When: Saturday 13 July, 3pm – 7pm
Tickets: moshtix.com.au

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5 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sapphires, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
10 You Are a Doughnut, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 12pm and from 6pm
12 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Rio, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
13 Suicide Prevention Fundraiser, Reef Gateway Hotel, from 5.30pm
16 The Sunshine Club, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
20 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 1pm
21 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6am
23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
28 Airlie Beach Triathlon, Airlie Beach Lagoon, from 5am
28 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval, from 3pm
31 The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm

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The Airlie Beach Festival of Music (ABFoM) is back for its 12th year and has released its line-up, which is set to be epic. Artists Rose Tattoo, Southern Sons, Reece Mastin and Sandi Thom are joining the already impressive lineup which includes Sweet (UK), Pseudo Echo, Jebediah, Thirsty Merc, Christine Anu, Ash Grunwald, 19 Twenty, Bondi Cigars and more. Proudly presented by the Whitsunday Sailing Club, ABFoM is your chance to come and party in the paradise that is Airlie Beach.
All the way from the UK, Glam Rock legends Sweet will be bringing classic tunes like "Fox On The Run" & "Ballroom Blitz" to the north QLD Tropics for the very first time.
Rock legends, Rose Tattoo, will bring their signature bluesy sound to the main stage. Fronted by the iconic Angry Anderson, the band promises a high-energy performance. Buckle up for a journey through their 47-year career filled with tales of bars, love, and everything in between.
Southern Sons will take you on a trip down memory lane with their original members reuniting to deliver their chart-topping classics such as “Hold Me in Your Arms” and “Heart in Danger”.
Remember the classic “I Wish I Was a Punk Rocker (with Flowers in my Hair)”? Creative artist and pioneer of online music Sandi Thom returns to Airlie Beach with fresh and old and infectious tunes.
ABFoM has become an Airlie Beach tradition, with this year marking the 12th anniversary, promising to be the biggest one yet. From November 8th to 10th, get ready for a thrilling 3-day extravaganza that will transform Airlie Beach into a music lover's paradise.
A 3-day ticket will cost you $320 and grants you access to headliners, over 50 acts across various venues and the afterparty on Monday 11th. Free festival shuttles are included in the ticket price. VIP options are also available.
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable weekend of music, sun and fun at the Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

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What: Airlie Beach Festival of Music.
Where: Whitsunday Sailing Club, Airlie Beach.
When: November 8th to 10th 2024.

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The Great Barrier Reef Festival is excited to announce Australian singer-songwriter Conrad Sewell, as headliner of Friday night Fireworks on the Foreshore.

Conrad Sewell is known for his rich, soulful vocals and poignant songwriting that have earned him international acclaim. Bursting onto the scene with his chart-topping single "Start Again," Conrad won the ARIA Award for Song of the Year in 2015, establishing himself as a significant force in the music industry.

Between touring with Ed Sheeran, Maroon 5, and The Script, Conrad has earned praise from Entertainment Weekly, Teen Vogue, Vice, NBC, and Nylon who proclaimed him to be “Australia’s next great pop export”. Simultaneously, his voice has carried to nearly every corner of the globe on Kygo’s “Firestone,” reaching RIAA platinum status, generating over 1 billion streams, and entertaining audiences everywhere from Coachella to Madison Square Garden.
Conrad’s first album ‘LIFE’ debuted at number one on the ARIA charts with singles “Come Clean” and “Healing Hands”, reaching multi-platinum status in 2022. Conrad held nothing back in his song writing and lyrical storytelling in his sophomore album “Precious”, which was released on the same day as his son was born. ‘Precious’ demonstrated authentic song writing mixed with a raw, live sound.
Conrad’s latest single, “All Life Long”, showcases his ability to blend heartfelt emotions with memorable melodies makes him a standout artist in the contemporary music landscape.
The festival is set to be a fun weekend of free entertainment on Airlie Beach Foreshore so head on down to see the fantastic Conrad Sewell, and many other great artists play.

WHAT: Great Barrier Reef Festival
WHEN: 1-4 August
WHERE: Airlie Beach

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North Queensland Battle of the Young Bands kicked off for the first-time last Sunday afternoon. The young talent performed a variety of fantastic songs to battle it out for the first prize; a whopping $1000 and the opportunity to perform a gig at Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill.
The winners of the day were Gleezus, who were also the winners from the last Whitsundays Got Talent. Organiser and coordinator Paula Hovey, mentioned how great the talent was at the weekend and that the first place was a “close call”, with old time favourite Category 5 as runners up, and the fantastic MyEnvy coming third.
Prizes were also given to second and third place, with second place getting $500 and third place, $100 along with a Whitsundays Got Talent engraved water bottle. All other non-placed musicians were given a voucher for Bridget Peel Fine Art, to have their own signature piece made.
The Battle of the Young Bands also hosted a raffle. The raffle winner was Bec Murlon, who went home with a $200 in-house voucher and a ticket to the 3-day Airlie Beach Festival of Music.
A total of seven bands performed, and Paula exclaimed how all the talent was “amazing,” and even included five bands from Music Evolution productions. Paula re-emphasised how the competition was “really hard to judge”.
Paula continued, saying that after the success of the first show, she expects next year to be even “bigger and better”, and encourages all to participate.
Other bands who performed in the battle were, The Microns, The Krusaders, THE TROUBLE MAKERS, Amnesya and Category 5.
The battle will run annually and is open to all young people aged 5-21 years.
If you think you or your band is Whitsunday’s next star and want to enquire about Whitsunday’s Got Talent events, please email: Info@whitsundaysgottalent.com

North Queensland Battle of the Young Bands winners Gleezus. Photo supplied

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The Whitsundays Writers Festival has an exciting new update to their speaker line-up with award winning Whitsundays author and investigative journalist Dr Lindsay Simpson announced to speak at the much-anticipated event.
Lindsay is the author and co-author of eleven books including bestselling Brothers in Arms, co-authored with Sandra Harvey and the subject of the Netflix television mini-series Bikie Wars.
She also authored historical fiction novel The Curer of Souls which was shortlisted for the Colin Roderick Prize in 2007. In the same year she won the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Australian Crime Writers Association with Sandra.
Lindsay’s 2014 book, Where is Daniel? Written with his parent’s Bruce and Denise Morcombe, investigated the disappearance of their son Daniel and the subsequent police investigation.
Her latest book, following its Dirty Footsteps: Adani is a memoir on climate change which won a Queensland Premier Literary Award in 2019.
Festival President Karen Jacobsen has expressed her excitement at the new line-up addition. “We are thrilled to have Lindsay join this year’s program. Her body of work is profound. Her meticulous research and passionate telling of important stories often present the reader with uncomfortable and problematic aspects of Queensland and Australian stories that need to be told.”
In addition to her book writing, Lindsay was also an investigative journalist for The Sydney Morning Herald from 1983-95 and spent 13 years as an academic, where she was the Inaugural Head of Journalism and Media Studies at the University of Tasmania. She also founded the Bachelor of Multimedia Journalism degree at James Cook University in 2010.
Lindsay now writes full time while living in the Whitsundays with her husband Grant. The pair also have their own tourism business where they run two sailing boats, Providence V and MiLady.
“We look forward to Lindsay’s significant contribution to the festival, sharing insights on responsible and respectful truth telling,’ Karen Jacobsen added.
Lindsay joins authors Shankari Chandran, Garry Disher, Sally Hepworth, Kirsty Manning, Christos Tsiolkas, Anne Buist, Graeme Simsion, Karina Kilmore, Melissa Ashley, Jack Roney, Joy Damousi, and Nick Earls for this year’s program.
If you are eager to see Lindsay’s or any of the other talented writer's speech’s, festival program highlights and ticket information are available on the festival’s website: whitsundayswriters.com

What: Whitsundays Writers Festival
When: Friday, September 6, to Sunday, September 8, 2024
Where: Airlie Beach

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“Barber by day / singer by night”

This is how Soulcutz, performer and band manager, Benson, describes himself.

Operating as a barber under the same title, Benson loves his 50/50 lifestyle, weekdays cutting hair and weekends performing in front of crowds on stage.

You may remember Soulcutz from the X Factor in 2014, where they reached the top 12.

Since then, the A-list musicians have been regular performers at Eat Street Northshore in Brisbane and they are now excited to be sharing their unique vibe at The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel.

Bringing entertainment for the young and the young at heart with a repertoire spanning four decades, Soulcutz have the ability to sound like both Shaggy and The Bee Gees!

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

Impersonation is one part of their show that makes them stand out amongst other bands and along with their jokes and crowd interactions, it’ll make for an entertaining evening you’ll always remember.

As an audience member you will feel part of the act said Benson.

“Our audiences are equal, they are part of us,” added Benson.

“You feel part of the group, you’re not treated inferior, our audiences are part of the show and it’s lots of fun.”

This is their first-time visiting Airlie Beach, and they cannot wait to meet the crowd and feed off their energy for a great evening.

“I love performing, seeing smiles on people’s faces, making people happy and feeding off vibes - it’s a great feeling.”

Performing a mix of Motown, soul, R & B, rock, country, reggae and old much-loved classics, Soulcutz provide a sing-along experience for all music lovers.

Benson has one thing to say to us, “Be there guys, be there!”

WHAT: Soulcutz
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 6 July & Sunday 7 July at 2pm – 5.30pm
TICKETS: You don’t need them! But booking a table is recommended

Photos supplied

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For one night only at the Reef Gateway Hotel, Australian festival favourites The Hillbilly Goats are coming back to town.

Renowned for their big harmonies, intricate fiddle melodies and fast harmonica, these incredible musicians have been carving out their own niche at big festivals nationwide.

They are award winning specialists in Mountain Music, with their musical twist on traditional songs.

Their mission is to strip back the layers of modern music and transport you on a journey that began centuries ago when the immigrants first settled in the Appalachian Mountains of America.

The band initially covered songs from the Bluegrass genre but with research found that the genre’s history went back for hundreds of years.

“The history then started to intrigue us because there's hundreds of years of history up in Appalachia,” said The Hillbilly Goats performer Mahney.

“The Scots, Irish and then the Africans brought their banjos into the mountains.

“The rhythms, instruments and cultures create the story that we're passionate about.”

Mahney said the band are excited to come back to the Whitsundays and urges you to “Kick Yer Shoes off, Put Yer Hoe Down & Hang on to Yer Britches!”

At Reef Gateway Hotel expect to hear some of their original songs, ‘Cumberland Jack’, ‘Old Jack’s Bones’, ‘Gypsy Girls’ and more.

The Hillbilly Goats haven’t been here in a while and say the show will be non-stop, colourful, high energy and a lot of fun!

WHAT: The Hillbilly Goats
WHERE: Reef Gateway Hotel
WHEN: Friday 5 July at 6pm
TICKETS: It’s a free event!!! But booking a table is recommended

The Hillbilly Goats, Photo supplied

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Do you love shopping and the environment? If the answer is yes, head down to the Pre-loved Market Night. A community-driven event designed to bring people together for a budget and eco-friendly shopping experience, that won't cost you a fortune.
The fast fashion industry’s rapid production cycles continue to contribute significantly to pollution, waste, and unethical labour practices. By embracing slow fashion in the community through pre-loved fashion, we can reduce our environmental impact markedly, whilst also promoting a more sustainable future.
The Pre-Loved Market Night offers a vibrant and diverse marketplace full of high-quality pre-loved clothing, accessories and homewares, available at affordable prices. This superb event provides an enjoyable and cost-effective alternative to buying new.
On the night, coffee and snacks will also be available to purchase, along with great music and wonderful prizes. This includes a prize for Top Fashion Thrifts (best secondhand outfit on the night).
Make sure to head on down to the pre-loved market and help the Whitsundays get a step closer to a sustainable future #sustainablewhitsundays. There are no admission fees.
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What: Pre-loved Market Night
When: Friday 28th June 6-8pm
Where: 3 Little Birds Espresso, Airlie Beach

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June
28-3 Proserpine Historical Museum Book Bonanza, from 9am
29 Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval, from 3pm
30 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

July
2 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sapphires, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
9 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
10 You Are a Doughnut, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 12pm and from 6pm
12 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Rio, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
13 Suicide Prevention Fundraiser, Reef Gateway Hotel, from 5.30pm
16 The Sunshine Club, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
20 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 1pm
21 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6am
23 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
28 Airlie Beach Triathlon, Airlie Beach Lagoon, from 5am
28 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
31 The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm

August
1-4 Great Barrier Reef Festival, Airlie Beach, from 9am
2 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Finding Dory, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
6 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6 Whalebone, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm and 6pm
8-15 Airlie Beach Race Week
8 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
8 Eskimo Joe, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
9 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Ice Age & Hook, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Morning Melodies – A Farewell to Doris, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 11am
15 Adult Learn to Skate, PCYC, from 6pm
20 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
25 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 6pm
30 The Gruffalo, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 10am
30 Ross Noble – Jibber Jabber Jamboree, at the Proserpine Entrainment Centre, from 8pm

September
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
6-8 White on Whitehaven, Whitehaven Beach, from 9am
6 Don River Dash Community Night, Bowen Showgrounds, from 4pm
7 Don River Dash 300, Telegraph Road Spectator Area, from 8am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Trolls & Jumanji, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
17 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Addams Family and Dumb & Dumber, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
27 Children are Stinky, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

October
1 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
3 Morning Melodies – Livvy & Pete, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
5 Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
11 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Super Mario Bros & Sister Act, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
26 Drizzle Boy, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7pm
27 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am

November
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sound of Music, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
1 An Evening with Vika & Linda, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
12 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
15 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Spy Kids & Grease, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
15 Arj Barker – The Mind Field, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 8pm
29 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

December
1 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Merry Madagascar & Home Alone 2, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
3 Sailing For Those With Disability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Morning Melodies – Andrews & Bing Christmas Swing, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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Friday 21 June
Magnums Bar: James Reyne - Crawl File Tour (from 7pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Reef Gateway: Louisa Taylor (6pm – 9pm)
Jubilee Tavern: Paul Berger (6pm – 9pm)
Grand View Hotel: Tim Griffin (8pm – 12am)
KC’s: Zed Charles (from 8pm)

Saturday 22 June
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Reef Gateway: David Flower: (6pm – 9pm)
Grand View Hotel: Freddy Martin (8pm – 12am)
Coral Sea Resort: Live Music (from 1pm)
KC’s: Zed Charles (from 8pm)

Sunday 23 June
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Josiah (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Tim Griffin (4pm – 8pm)
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
Colonial Palms Motor Inn: Sunday Jazz (from 3pm)

Monday 24 June
KC’s: Zed Charles (from 8pm)

Tuesday 25 June
KC’s: Boldy (from 8pm)

Wednesday 26 June
KC’s: Paul Ferg (from 8pm)

Thursday 27 June
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC’s: Paul Ferg (from 8pm)

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Balance has been restored to the Cannonvale Beach parklands with the arrival of a three-metre Fig Tree which replaces the old tree that was tragically poisoned some weeks prior.

Investigations are still underway to discover the culprit who took it upon themselves to destroy the large tree that was a habitat for birdlife and a welcome source of shade for many decades.

It was, however, a sense of renewal when the young tree was planted in a similar spot earlier this week.

At just three-metres, it is expected the youngster will grow to at least 10-metres in height.

Two Council Parks and Gardens workers planted the tree on Tuesday morning and commented they were thrilled to see a replacement arrive so quickly.

The replanting comes after Council announced the tree had been poisoned on the 8th May.

“We regret to inform the community of the loss of a beautiful fig tree on the Cannonvale Foreshore,” said the Whitsunday Regional Council statement.

“Over the past two weeks, deliberate damage has been inflicted upon the tree, evidenced by drill holes strategically placed around its trunk, indicating a poisoning attempt.

“Over the weekend, fresh poison holes were found, and the tree has taken a turn for the worse. Unfortunately, an arborist report has confirmed the tree cannot be saved and will be removed to ensure public safety. We will look to replant a new tree in its place.”

The incident has been logged with Queensland Police, and Council encourages anybody who may have information about the act of vandalism to contact Council or the Police.

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The new three-metre fig tree. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Before the State of Origin kicks off, The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel hosted a hot dog eating competition, and it was a great success.

$700 worth of prizes were given out, as well as free hot dogs for everyone!

The Pub hosted both boy and girl heats, then the three fastest girls and the three fastest boys competed against each other, but the boys had a foot long hot dog to make it fair.

The eventual winner was one of the guys who narrowly beat 2 girls (who came 2nd and third).

For Origin 2, Wednesday 26 June, things are getting mixed up!

There will be mixed teams of boys and girls, NSW vs QLD.

Teams will compete against each other in the true spirit of the game.

To compete, be at the Sports Bar for 6pm for registration and the competition will start at 7pm.

State of Origin Game 2 coverage begins at 7.30 and kick-off at 8pm.

Free hot dogs will also be available again at half time.

What: State of Origin – Game 2 Hot Dog Eating Comp
Where: Sports Bar, Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Hot Dog eating competition 7pm & State of Origin – Game 2 8pm

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Hot Dog eating competition winners, Photo supplied

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The draw of the year is almost here!

You have the chance to win a 2024 Toyota Corolla valued at $35,000 as part of the Airlie Beach Hotel $250,000 prize pool.

To enter, just spend $25 in The Pub, The Bar, or any ABH Liquor & Tobacco merchants bottle shop.

And be at The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel’s gaming room Wednesday & Thursday between 3pm & 7pm and Friday & Saturday between 4pm & 8pm with your members card inserted correctly for your chance to win. There are prize draws every 20 minutes including tickets to win the car.

Entry is only open to Australian residents who are 18 years and over and are members of the Airlie Beach Hotel & Liquor & Tobacco Merchants Bottle shops, ABH Operations Queensland Pty Ltd and you must produce valid identification to claim any prize from the prize pool.

The winner must be at the draw on the night to claim the prize, so if you have tickets make sure you are there!

For details on how to win the car, see Airlie Beach Hotel gaming and bar staff.

Stephen Cooper winner of Airlie Beach Hotel last car draw, Photo supplied

What: Airlie Beach Hotel Car Draw
Where: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday 29 June at 9pm

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June
14 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
14 Umbilical Brothers ‘The Distraction’, at Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 8pm
15 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC from 10am
15 Barra and Boots Music Festival, Lake Proserpine, from 1pm
18 Sailability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Adults Social Skating, Rolldance Skate School, at Cannonvale State School Hall, from 5.30pm
21 A Taste of Ireland - The Irish Music & Dance Sensation, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
23 Whitsunday Lions Charity Golf Day, Whitsunday Green Golf Club, from 8.30am
29 Family Field Day, Les Stagg Oval, from 3pm
30 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

July
2 Sailability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sapphires, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
10 You Are a Doughnut, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 12pm and from 6pm
12 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Rio, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
13 Suicide Prevention Fundraiser, Reef Gateway Hotel, from 5.30pm
16 The Sunshine Club, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
20 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 1pm
21 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6am
28 Airlie Beach Triathlon, Airlie Beach Lagoon, from 5am
28 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

31 The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm

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Friday 14 June
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
KC’S: Tash (from 8pm)
Reef Gateway: Dave Helgi (6pm – 9pm)
Jubilee Tavern: Rebelquin (6pm – 9pm)
Grand View Hotel: Mike Vaughan (8pm – 12am)

Saturday 15 June
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Grease Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
KC’s: Shaun Diver (from 8pm)
Reef Gateway: Sam McCann (6pm – 9pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Night (8pm – 12am)
Coral Sea Marina Resort: Live Music (from 1pm)

Sunday 16 June
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Two Strong Hearts Tribute (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC’s: Paul Fergus (from 8pm)
Grand View Hotel: Rebelquin (4pm – 8pm)

Monday 17 June
KC’s: John Veloso (from 8pm)

Tuesday 18 June
KC’s: John Veloso (from 8pm)

Wednesday 19 June
KC’s: Ronnie Croker (from 8pm)

Thursday 20 June
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC’s: Ronnie Croker (from 8pm)

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Huge weekend at Lake Proserpine Campgrounds tomorrow and Sunday as they host the first Barra and Boots Festival and Camping Event.
 
Event organisers RegFest have gathered some absolute legends of Australian Country Music to play a very intimate gig at Lake Proserpine with only 600 tickets available the event is close to a selling out.
 
Major new events like this added to the Whitsunday calendar are vital to attract visitors to our region. It is unique in that campers will be able to stroll out of their camping spot, grab a camp chair, fill their esky and watch the concert live from within campsite getting up close and personal with all the artists like Adam Brand, Sara Storer, Andrew Swift, Portia Clark and many more.
 
Last week I was in Brisbane advocating to the Queensland Government for funding for the next stage of the Lake Proserpine Masterplan.
 
Stage 1 of the Lake Proserpine Barramundi Fishing and Interactive Nature Recreational Precinct opened in 2020 and the project was delivered in partnership with the Qld Government with the aim of growing the mainland tourism experiences in the Whitsundays.
 
Lake Proserpine has been a jewel in the crown for our region in attracting fishing enthusiasts and caravaners as it is famous as the home of the 1 metre plus barramundi which can be fished all year round. Each year, the Lake is restocked with over 20,000 barramundi fingerlings.
 
Council is seeking collaborative funding from the State Government to help deliver the next stage of the Masterplan which includes adding alternative accommodation options to attract new domestic and international visitor markets who want to stay at the Lake but are constrained by only camping and caravan options.
 
The next stage will deliver 10 eco cabins equipped with an off-grid power system featuring a 10-kW solar array and battery setup for energy independence, a high-quality sustainable materials and minimising waste during the manufacturing process, resulting in low to no running costs.
 
Business cases developed by our Economic Development team show the project would drive an additional 4,380 annual visitor nights and $1.472M in annual tourism expenditure into the Whitsunday region economy.

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Relive the magic of the Blues Brothers with the Soul Men as they present the Blues Brothers Tribute Show at The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel.

This tribute act being based on the iconic film of the same name and stands out from the rest with great audience participation.

Jake in the show, performed by Greg Hill said “We're interactive, we’re choreographed. we are well rehearsed, and we also have a script that we use but we're also adlib as well.”

“How we differ from a lot of other tribute shows is in interactive stuff, and the showmanship that we provide in our show.

“We have a certain knack of getting the audience eating out the palm of our hands really quickly and interacting with us and having a really good time.”

Haven’t seen the film? That’s okay.

“You don’t need to necessarily see the film to enjoy the show,” said Greg.

“The music in the show is in our culture and has been in all the ads, tv shows, it’s in theme songs, it's immersed around our culture.

“I've played many gigs with young people that haven't known the Blues Brothers but have known all the music.

“For the fans of the movie, we reenact some scenes, we drop lines from the movie itself and as a nod and tribute back to the film itself.”

This show has been to Airlie Beach numerous times and Greg loves the crowd, people, atmosphere and can’t wait to come up again.

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What: Blues Brothers Tribute
Where: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
When: Saturday 22 June & Sunday 23 June (2pm – 5.30pm)
Tickets: Don’t need them! But booking a table is recommended

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With his mother’s side of the family having 14 members and all being musical, Paul Fergus was involved in lots of family sing-a-longs and it sparked his passion for music.

At the age of 10, Paul received great feedback from friends and teachers for his work in school productions.

“It’s better than them throwing tomatoes at you,” joked Paul.

Then during early teenage years, Paul started to enjoy acting, he enjoyed being the class clown and thought pursuing acting would be a good way to turn it into something useful.

Studying Performing Arts at university, Paul jumped into the acting world, and has performed for The Australian Shakespeare Company for 10 years.

It wasn’t until this time last year, however, that Paul knuckled down on his solo music career, and discovered a new passion.

“I like that it’s up to you, it leaves nothing to chance and the clap at the end is all yours,” said Paul.

After performing in venues on Hamilton Island in February and Hayman Island, Paul arrived in Airlie in early April and has loved performing here since.

At KC’s Paul will be performing foot stomping covers of songs that we all know and love.

Favourite Song: How To Make Gravy by Paul Kelly
Last Song You Listened To: Is This How You Feel by The Preatures
Favourite Song To Perform: I Wan’na Be Like You from The Jungle Book
Least Favourite Song to Perform: Wonderwall by Oasis

What: Paul Fergus
When: Sunday 16 from 8pm
Where: KC’s Bar & Grill

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Paul Fergus, Photo supplied

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A spectacular Drag Show, which has been performed to sold-out crowds up and down the East Coast over the last three months, is now on its way to the Whitsundays and there are still a few tickets remaining.

Illegally Blonde has taken Brisbane by storm and the Whitsundays is the next on the list!

Performing in the Reef Gateway Hotel’s function room, you can expect a flamboyant drag show packed with glamour, charm,  hilarious games and a dance party.

Cheer on the blonde trio, Terry Daktyl, Kourtney Kace and Becky as they hit the stage in two drag show productions.

During the evening, you’ll be entertained from start to finish with the outrageous fashion, hilarious jokes and unforgettable performances.

Hear hit songs from your favourite artists, Cyndi Lauper, Sam Smith, Megan Thee Stallion, Kim Petras, Vengaboys and many more.

Organisers say that everyone is welcome regardless of gender or sexual orientation, the party is inclusive, accepting and a lot of fun!

Reef Gateway Hotel has hosted other drag events in the past, Drag Bingo and Drag Paint & Sip, both events have been sold out hits and so much fun – they promise this event will be no different.

So, gather your friends and get ready for a night filled with outrageous laughs and excitement.

This evening promises to be one of the most memorable experiences you've ever had, leaving a lasting impression on your memory for years to come.

This event is an 18+ event.

What: Illegally Blonde – Drag Show
Where: Reef Gateway Hotel
When: Friday 7 June, 6pm
Tickets: $45 and an 18+ event

Illegally Blonde trio, Photo supplied

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The iconic Australian powerhouses of Olivia Newton-John and John Farnham are joining together in a special tribute show, and this is something performer Anita Spring says she has always wanted to do.

Anita remembers how the chemistry the famous couple shared on stage was inspirational and their electric energy shone for all to admire.

‘Two Strong Hearts’ encapsulates this, with two strong performers.

Anita, has been performing her Olivia Newton-John tribute show for four and a half years, and says to be a successful tribute artist, “You aim to look and sound like them, and that’s what makes a good tribute.”

Alongside her is Jeff Fallon.

Jeff has 30 years’ experience performing as John Farnham and is coming out of retirement for this show!

This will be the first time Jeff has performed as the singing sensation in 10 years and it is something that cannot be missed.

Anita and Jeff have never worked together before, but Anita says their chemistry came naturally.

“Sometimes you meet someone you click with and it’s just like magic, that’s where chemistry comes from,” said Anita.

The two will play all the hits, plus songs from their tribute’s early stages of career, and of course some great duets.

To follow their journey up and down the country check out their Facebook page.

Anita is excited for the ‘Two Strong Hearts’ performance at Airlie Beach, but that’s not all.

On Saturday, the two combine again for a ‘Grease’ tribute, Anita performing as Sandy and Jeff as Danny.

They’ll perform all the hits from Grease, additionally they are adding songs from other cult favourites like Dirty Dancing, Top Gunn and many more.

Anita hopes Saturday’s ‘Grease’ tribute will give the crowd an inkling of what is to come in Sunday’s ‘Two Kind Hearts’ performance.

Dressing up, singing and dancing is encouraged at both shows, don’t miss out on this double header great tribute weekend at The Pub.

The iconic Australian powerhouses of Olivia Newton-John and John Farnham are joining together in a special tribute show, and this is something performer Anita Spring says she has always wanted to do.

Anita remembers how the chemistry the famous couple shared on stage was inspirational and their electric energy shone for all to admire.

‘Two Strong Hearts’ encapsulates this, with two strong performers.

Anita, has been performing her Olivia Newton-John tribute show for four and a half years, and says to be a successful tribute artist, “You aim to look and sound like them, and that’s what makes a good tribute.”

Alongside her is Jeff Fallon.

Jeff has 30 years’ experience performing as John Farnham and is coming out of retirement for this show!

This will be the first time Jeff has performed as the singing sensation in 10 years and it is something that cannot be missed.

Anita and Jeff have never worked together before, but Anita says their chemistry came naturally.

“Sometimes you meet someone you click with and it’s just like magic, that’s where chemistry comes from,” said Anita.

The two will play all the hits, plus songs from their tribute’s early stages of career, and of course some great duets.

To follow their journey up and down the country check out their Facebook page.

Anita is excited for the ‘Two Strong Hearts’ performance at Airlie Beach, but that’s not all.

On Saturday, the two combine again for a ‘Grease’ tribute, Anita performing as Sandy and Jeff as Danny.

They’ll perform all the hits from Grease, additionally they are adding songs from other cult favourites like Dirty Dancing, Top Gunn and many more.

Anita hopes Saturday’s ‘Grease’ tribute will give the crowd an inkling of what is to come in Sunday’s ‘Two Kind Hearts’ performance.

Dressing up, singing and dancing is encouraged at both shows, don’t miss out on this double header great tribute weekend at The Pub.

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WHAT: Grease Tribute
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 15 June, 2pm – 5.30pm
TICKETS: No tickets needed, but booking a table is recommended to avoid disappointment

WHAT: Two Strong Hearts (Olivia Newton-John and John Farnham Tribute)
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Sunday 16 June, 2pm – 5.30pm
TICKETS: No tickets needed, but booking a table is recommended to avoid disappointment

Photos supplied

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More than one thousand people attended the bi-annual St Mary’s Catholic School Family Fun Day in Bowen last month, and with over 400 ride passes sold, it was clear that the children had a lot of fun!

One of the organisers, Angela Gonzalez, said they were thrilled with the event’s success.

“We were all very stoked with the turn out!” she said.

“Thank you to all the sponsors and all our volunteers who made the event happen.”

There was plenty to do on the day, including fairground rides, face painting, playdoh fun, Whitsunday Wildlife experiences and sand art.

Angela said they are still counting all the money raised, but are anticipating it may reach $10K, all of which will be put back into the school’s P&C.

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Photos supplied

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The Brisbane based band, Sex and Chocolate, are coming back to Airlie Beach.

Offering something new every time they visit, this highly-acclaimed band promises this time will be no different as they perform two separate sets from the bar-top stage at this popular venue.

The first set will include their well-known and much-loved Motown work and the second set will include well known pop songs and overall great vibes!

Both sets will of course feature the groups fine-tuned choreography.

Sex and Chocolate perform hits from the Temptations, the Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, The Spinners, Earth Wind and Fire, Barry White, Billy Ocean, Prince, Shaggy, Bruno Mars and many more.

It’s an amazing two-hour spectacle featuring four sensational award-winning singers who will have you dancing all day long.

They’ve been a trusted band – and brand - for more than 20 years, entertaining at more celebrity and high-profile events than you can count.

Sex and Chocolate’s resume includes a string of well-known celebrity weddings and special events, including the Indy 500, HRH Gala, the Mayoress Charity Ball for Ruth Tate, plus Rugby League and Union star’s weddings - Brent Tate, Petero Civoniceva, and Daniel Herbert.
A personal favourite for the famous quartet was with the great Aussie favourite Paul Hogan, where Sex and Chocolate performed at his Crocodile Dundee after party.
They’re expert entertainers that connect with an audience like only the very best can.
Their show and professionalism is next level, and it’ll have you dancing all day long.

WHAT: Motown || Millenia
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 8 June 2pm – 5.30pm & Sunday 9 June 2pm – 5.30pm
TICKETS: Don’t need them, but booking a table is recommended to avoid
Disappointment

Photos supplied

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Calling graduates of 2004 at Proserpine State High School and loved ones, it’s almost time for the 20-year reunion.

On Saturday 22 June at 2pm catch up with old classmates and enjoy the great setting at Northerlies Beach Bar & Grill.

Sit back, mingle with old friends, and enjoy the live music plus an all-day menu at the Beach Bar.
 
Whether you graduated Proserpine State High School in 2004 or left a little bit earlier – you are welcome, partners and kids are welcome too.

It will be a great chance to catch up and have a good time.
 
RSVP before June 1 and for further details or to RSVP contact Kathleen via kathleen.s.price@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/pshs2004

WHEN: Saturday 22 June 2024
WHERE: Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill
TIME: 2pm
RSVP: Before June 1

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Anticipation grows as the Whitsundays Writers Festival prepares to unveil its Heart Awards Poetry Prize, celebrating the vibrant soul of poetry within the literary community.

Submissions are open until May 31st, offering poets the chance to contest for the esteemed Heart Award Poetry Prize, accompanied by a significant cash prize.

Poetry enthusiasts at the Festival are also encouraged to showcase their lyrical prowess at a special ‘karaoke style’ event on Friday 6 September, where attendees can step up to the mic and share their verses in an intimate and supportive atmosphere.

Poetry stands as an inclusive avenue for artistic expression, welcoming both seasoned poets and aspiring wordsmiths to participate in this celebration of verse and voice.

“We are delighted to provide a platform for poets to share their work and connect with fellow lovers of language,” says Festival President, Karen Jacobsen.

“The Heart Awards’ Poetry Prize and our Friday poetry event embody the spirit of creativity and community that defines the Whitsundays Writers Festival.”

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this vibrant literary event! Submit your poetry for the Heart Awards by May 31st and mark your calendars for the special poetry event to be held from 5:30pm Friday 6 September during the Whitsundays Writers Festival.

Also closing on Friday 31 May are submissions for the Heart Awards’ Short Story (adult and under 18 divisions) and Early Bird Festival tickets.

About the Festival: The Whitsundays Writers Festival is a premier literary event dedicated to fostering creativity, dialogue, and appreciation for the written word. Bringing together acclaimed authors, aspiring writers, and avid readers, the festival celebrates the diverse tapestry of storytelling while showcasing the natural beauty of the Whitsundays region.

The festival, spanning three days from Friday, September 6, to Sunday, September 8, 2024, will also feature the prestigious Whitsundays Literary Heart Awards to provide well-deserved recognition and financial rewards to talented writers for best unpublished manuscript, short story, poetry, and book design.

WHAT: Whitsunday Writers Festival
WHEN: September 6-8
TICKETS: whitsundayswriters.com

POETRY SUBMISSIONS CLOSE TODAY!

In the heart of the Whitsundays, where poets’ dreams take flight,
The Writers Festival calls, under the starry night.
Announcing the Heart Awards, where poetry reigns supreme,
Submit your verses by May’s end, fulfill your poet’s dream.

A prize awaits the chosen one, a treasure rich and grand,
For words that dance like fireflies, across the golden sand.
But wait, there’s more! A special night, a poetry soiree,
Where open mics and whispered rhymes, steal the show away.

Come one, come all, to share your heart, your soul, your verse,
In the embrace of kindred spirits, let your words disperse.
For in the Whitsundays’ gentle breeze, where dreams take to the air,
The poets gather, hand in hand, a symphony of flair.

So mark your calendars, dear friends, and heed the poet’s call,
To the Whitsundays Writers Festival, where inspiration thralls.
Submit your poems, join the fray, let your spirit free,
For in the heart of poetry, lies the essence of eternity.

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May
24 Proserpine State School Community Fete, Proserpine State School, from 5pm
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Reef Gateway: Rebelquin (6pm – 9pm)
Jubilee Tavern: Jan Arns (6pm – 9pm)
Grand View Hotel: Jonesy n The Coffee Man (8pm – 12am)
KC’s: Josiah (from 8pm)

25 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC from 10am
CQ Rescue Charity Golf Day, Proserpine Golf Club, from 9am
St Mary’s Bowen Family Fun Day, Bowen, from 2pm
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Get Rhythm Johnny Cash & June Carter Tribute (2pm –   5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Reef Gateway: Paul Berger (6pm – 9pm)
Grand View Hotel: Shaun Diver (8pm – 12am)
KC’s: Chris Booroff (from 8pm)

26 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
Jazz Event, Colonial Palms, from 3pm
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Get Rhythm Johnny Cash & June Carter Tribute (2pm–   5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Lloyd Saunders (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Shaun Diver (4pm – 8pm)
Colonial Palms: Nick Di Gregorio & Ash De Neef (from 3pm)
KC’s: Josiah (from 8pm)

27 Flag Raising Ceremony, Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 9.30am
KC’s: Sam McCann (from 8pm)
28
29
KC’s: Erin Reus (from 8pm)

30
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)
KC’s: Ferg (from 8pm)

31 Reconciliation Week – Bowen Twilight Markets, Hansen Park, Horseshoe Bay Road from 4pm
National Reconciliation Week Welcome to Countrry, Smpking Ceremony, Traditional Dance, Songs and Workshops, Twilight Markets & Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Last Daughter, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 5pm

June
1 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC from 10am
2 Whitsunday Cup Race Day, Ben Bolt Park Bowen, from 11am
4 Sailability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
2 Queensland Day, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 10am
8 Wearable Art Workshop, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
8 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC from 10am
8 Dreams – Fleetwood Mac & Stevie Nicks Show, at Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 7.30pm
9 Dingo Beach Whitfunday, Dingo Beach
9 Wearable Art Workshop, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
13 Morning Melodies - Some Enchanted Evening - The Songs of Rodgers & Hammerstein, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 11am
14 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Harry Potter and the Philosophers Stone, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
14 Umbilical Brothers ‘The Distraction’, at Proserpine Entertainment Centre from 8pm
15 Mini Roller Disco, PCYC from 10am
15 Barra and Boots Music Festival, Lake Proserpine, from 1pm
18 Sailability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
20 Adults Social Skating, Rolldance Skate School, at Cannonvale State School Hall, from 5.30pm
21 A Taste of Ireland - The Irish Music & Dance Sensation, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
30 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

July
2 Sailability, Whitsunday Sailing Club, from 9am
5 Airlie Beach Movie Night – The Sapphires, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
10 You Are a Doughnut, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 12pm and from 6pm
12 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Rio, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
16 The Sunshine Club, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
20 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon Festival, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 1pm
21 Tassal Group Airlie Beach Marathon, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6am
28 Airlie Beach Triathlon, Airlie Beach Lagoon, from 5am
28 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

31 The Poems, Prayers & Promises of John Denver, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 1pm

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One of the country’s up and coming Opera stars, Marcus Corowa, is a Bowen boy who  spent most of his childhood in the region and is now hitting the big stage and performing in Queensland’s biggest opera productions.

But how did he get there?

Marcus grew up around music, going to the local church with his family and playing a lot of instruments.

With this passion for music at a young age, Marcus decided he wanted a career in singing and song writing.

To make this dream come true he moved to Sydney with those intentions, but other opportunities came his way.

Marcus started branching out and performing in musicals and operas, which required him to act, dance and perform.

With a new skillset and now fully immersed within the arts industry, Marcus has been performing in some of Queensland’s biggest opera productions with Opera Queensland.

Three years ago, he performed in Opera Queensland’s most successful production, ‘Are You Lonesome Tonight’, which toured regional Queensland and celebrated Opera and Country music.

Earlier this year he was involved in a fun production named ‘Do We Need Another Hero’ which came to Proserpine as part of its regional tour.

The show was filled with a variety of genres and in essence left audiences wondering what it means to be a human being in this world.

In August of this year, Marcus will be performing in another Opera Queensland production called ‘Straight from the Strait’.

This production will be the first Torres Strait Islander musical in Australia, and it pays homage to the Torres Strait Islander men and women that ventured far from their homes in pursuit of employment on the mainland.

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Marcus Corowa, Photo Supplied

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Calling all Aussie rock fans to The Pub at The Airlie Beach Hotel!

Midnight Oil and Cold Chisel tribute acts are hitting the stage and bringing with them, the iconic songs everyone loves.

You’ll hear hits like Khe Sanh, When the War is Over, Cheap Wine, Flame Trees, You Got Nothing I Want and Choir Girl from Cold Chisel.

And from Midnight Oil you’ll be belting out the hits of Power and the Passion, US Forces, Dreamworld, King of the Mountain, Forgotten Years, Beds are Burning, Blue Sky Mine and many more.

Cold Chisel tribute act main singer Andy Lutze has been performing this Cold Chisel act for 24 years.

Throughout the years he has perfected the act and pushes his voice to the limit just like the real Jimmy Barnes.

Initially, he planned to do the show for just a few years but when it became a huge hit, he decided to continue.

Drawing inspiration from the real band, Andy combined the show with a Midnight Oil tribute and together created this masterful double feature.

The real Midnight Oil used to be an opening act for Cold Chisel in the 80’s, so these two tributes thought nothing would be better than combining their tribute acts.

The two perform one after another and play hit after hit.

Both acts deliver what you expect!

Amazing songs and tracks that are great to sing along to.

Midnight Oil front man, Alexander Hell said ‘If you only get to see two shows this year, make sure it’s this one, twice!”

And if that doesn’t sell the show to you, I don’t know what will.

WHAT: Midnight Oil Tribute Act & ‘Gold Chisel’ (Cold Chisel) Tribute Act
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel
WHEN: Saturday 1 June & Sunday 2 June (2pm – 5.30pm)
TICKETS: You don’t need any! But booking a table is recommended

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Māori man Josiah has always loved music.

Music is a big part in the Māori culture and growing up around that, Josiah developed an interest at an early age.

Despite having his first gig at 16, Josiah never imagined music would be his full-time career, but fast forward to today, and it is.

It’s been seven years since Josiah became a full-time musician and he has never looked back.

He has been hitting stages around Airlie Beach and displaying his talent.

Josiah said he primarily plays reggae, Motown and soul but also joked that when he plays pop and singalong anthems, he does it to entertain the girls.

For the past three months Josiah has had Casey Donnellan as his manager and he says he’s extremely thankful for her care and support.

Although Josiah’s career is in music, he likes to keep busy during the day, and he does the occasional day job, heading out the water or looking after accommodation.

WHAT: Josiah live on stage
WHEN: From 8pm on Saturday 24th May & Sunday 26th June
WHERE: KC’s Bar & Grill

Josiah performing on stage
Josiah

Photos supplied

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Whitsunday Regional Council is showing support for the local arts scene by sponsoring the main prize at the upcoming Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition.

They have contributed $3000 to the prize pool, affirming their commitment to fostering local artistic talent.

Mayor Collins expressed Council’s dedication to promoting a thriving arts culture in the Whitsunday region.

“It’s important we support opportunities for artists to showcase their creations and connect with local audiences,” he said.

"It not only benefits our local artists but contributes to the cultural experiences available for our community."

The organisers from Creative Connections Whitsunday Inc have welcomed Council's sponsorship, which contributed to raising the total prize money to over $8000.

Glenda Brown, Exhibition Coordinator, emphasised that art prizes play a crucial role in providing artists with exposure and opportunities for artwork sales, and a unique cultural event for locals and visitors.

To add to the event's prestige, the winning artwork will be added to the Council's curated collection.

Panellists Sandy Guy and Bonney Bombach, along with a Council member, will help with the preselection process.

Deadline for entry is 30 June 30 2024 and all artists are invited to enter. 

The exhibition is due to be held at the Whitsunday Sailing Club from August 1-5, 2024. The event will display a variety of 2D and 3D artworks and photographs, and attendees can participate in the 'People's Choice' Award by voting for their favourite artwork.

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WHAT: Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition
WHERE: Whitsunday Sailing Club
WHEN: 1-5 August

Last year’s theme was Whales and this year artists are invited to explore ‘Above and Below’ works. Photo supplied

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James Reyne from Australian Crawl is coming to town!

With him he brings his amazing band and they’ll be performing all of the classic Australian Crawl hits, that’ll have you belting out the lyrics.

From Reckless to The Boys Light up, Hammerhead and Fall of Rome – there are too many iconic tunes to list here – you’ll have to go and see the performance instead!

James and his band have been performing this tour since January of this year and so far, every show has been sold out and has rocked out.

He’s extremely eager to get to the Whitsundays and says the small rural towns do not lack in support.

James said he feeds off the crowd to enhance his performance and take it to the next level.

“It’s a two-way thing, the psychology of show business is someone on stage, pushing energy out, and energy’s coming back,” he added.

Performing for such a long time, James said he is only improving with time, and during his career he has learned valuable information about show business, song writing and personal relations.

“Being in a band it means you get to experience things that people would normally experience but you get to experience them in a really intense few years,” he said.

“You get all these life experiences, and you have to learn these life lessons quite quickly and intently about human nature and how people are, how people relate to you, how you relate to them and the world.”

It’s not just life lessons James has learned throughout his career; he understands the muse and what to do if he encounters a blank with his song writing.

“I recognise that it’s not a hard time, it’s natural part of life,” James said.

“It’s the natural ebb and flow of creative consciousness and when you do that, you serve the music, you're calling it earlier, you sit down, and you work at your craft, you start working and you start thinking.

“You start tinkering with an idea you might have had three weeks ago or an idea you might have had yesterday or two lines you might have written down six months ago and things start to happen.

“I learned to not worry about that [getting a blank in songwriting], let it slide and the so-called muse will revisit you.”

James is bringing all his expertise and experience to Magnums Hotel in Airlie Beach this June, for one night with this incredible music legend.

Alongside all the Australian Crawl hits, you can expect to hear all the song you know and love for 90 minutes of rock and roll classics.

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WHAT: James Reyne from Australian Crawl
WHERE: Magnums Hotel
WHEN: June 21

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James Reyne is coming to Airlie Beach next month
A record cover of James Reyne’s Hammerhead released in 1987

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The North Queensland Battle Of The Young Bands and Young Whitsundays Got Talent are two very special events which invite our region’s youth to showcase their musical abilities, giving them an opportunity to play live in front of big crowds.

If you’re in a local band or a solo musician this is your chance!

First-up is North Queensland Battle Of The Young Bands competition and the winner receives $1000 in prize money and a gig at Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill.

Open for young people of all ages, there are three age categories, 5-12, 13-17 and 18-21, anyone can enter!

Every registered band will perform two songs in a heat and winners of each heat will perform another song in the Grand Final.

Additionally, the event will be live streamed on Facebook, and appear on Whitsundays Got Talent’s YouTube page.

To enter, your band must have three or more band members.

This event is brought to you by Whitsundays Got Talent which is a not-for-profit local organisation that is passionate about helping young people unleash their musical abilities.

The organisation is currently looking for sponsorship so, if you are a local business or individual, and would like to support this community group, then please reach out.

WHAT: North Queensland Battle Of The Young Bands
WHERE: Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill
WHEN: Sunday 16 June, 12.30pm

WHAT: Young Whitsundays Got Talent
WHERE: Northerlies Beach Bar and Grill
WHEN: Sunday 13 October 1pm

REGISTER: info@whitsundaysgottalent.com

Gleezus won Young Battle Of The Bands last year. Photo credit: Whitsunday Life Newspaper

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St Catherine's Catholic College celebrated its annual Under Eights Day last Friday, bringing together over 200 students from kindergarten to Year 2, students from St Mary's Catholic School travelled from Bowen to also enjoy the day’s fun activities.

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