For Rhythm And The Reef 2025 Mackay shook, sang, and danced like never before as Rhythm and The Reef 2025 smashed records, drawing over 7,200 fans across two unforgettable days. The festival kicked off with an exclusive Friday pre-party at McGuire’s Hotel before erupting into full swing at Meadowlands Amphitheatre on Saturday, 23 August. Award-winning Amy Shark headlined, backed by a powerhouse mix of Australian favourites and rising local stars, delivering a performance that had music lovers o
Read the full storyMackay Youth Experience The Thrill Of Sailing Excitement and smiles filled the waters of the Mackay Harbour last week as the Making Waves Foundation brought the thrill of sailing to the region. As part of its Northern Campaign 2025, the foundation kicked off the first of six ports along Queensland’s coast and Northern NSW, offering free, inclusive sailing programs for youth living with disabilities, many of whom were stepping aboard a boat for the very first time. Mayor Greg Williamson jo
Read the full storyMulti music award winner Jessica Mauboy will make her first Airlie Beach Festival of Music appearance this November. The much-loved Australian music legend first gained recognition on Australian Idol but in an exclusive interview with Whitsunday Life Newspaper, she said performing live is her ultimate joy. “Being able to play it live, is my ultimate favourite. So, it’s an absolute honour and opportunity to be able to do that in Airlie Beach. I'm looking forward to that,” she said. “I love to
Read the full storyProserpine-born actor Connor Hawkins is set to return to his hometown next month for a debut performance of Tom Paine: Based on Nothing, an intense, thought-provoking one-man show that promises to push both performer and audience out of their comfort zones. Written by acclaimed playwright Will Eno, the 75-minute monologue is described as “stand-up existentialism” and a stream of consciousness dialogue through life’s rawest moments: life, love, childhood and mortality. Connor describes the show
Read the full storyMonday the 18th August through to Friday 22nd August is Queensland Road Safety Week. A week dedicated in Queensland for sending a message for all road users about the choices they make could save a life or take one. Police across the State are asking road users to pause and reflect on how they drive ride walk or use our roads. Like my previous article road safety is a shared responsibility, whether you are a driver, passenger or pedestrian. One poor decision can lead to life long consequences s
Read the full storyIt’s time to kick start your engines and strap in for a wild weekend to remember as the infamous Don River Dash roars into the Whitsundays for another year this September! Set to be held from Friday the 5th until Sunday the 7th of September, the annual weekend of high-octane action and spectacular speed demon racing will soon mark it’s seventh year in the region and the community is bursting with excitement and anticipation. Since its 2019 debut with juts 40 bikes and 30 cars, the daring Don R
Read the full storyPerched in an elevated, private position in soughtafter
Shute Harbour, this stunning residence
captures uninterrupted ocean & island vistas over the
turquoise waters of the Whitsundays.
Designed for relaxed tropical living, the home spans
two light-filled levels. Upstairs, a spacious open-plan
layout blends the living, dining, and kitchen areas,
flowing seamlessly to a balcony where the sea views
take centre stage. The master bedroom, also on this
level, enjoys its own private outlook.
Downstairs offers two additional bedrooms, perfect
for guests or extended family. Step outside to a large
pool and expansive entertaining area — the ultimate
setting for soaking up the sun, hosting friends, and
enjoying the tropical climate.
With approved short-term holiday letting, this
property is not only a lifestyle retreat but also
a ready-made investment opportunity in one of
Australia’s most desirable coastal regions.
Just a short drive to Airlie Beach and the Shute
Harbour ferry terminal, you can be on Hamilton
Island — and even at its airport — in a very short
time. Depart the southern capitals in the morning
and be unwinding at your Whitsunday retreat by
afternoon.
August 28, 2025
Jay is a young, lovable boy with a heart full of affection and a tail that never stops wagging. He’s been waiting patiently for his second chance, and now he’s ready to find his forever family. This gorgeous pup is playful, friendly, and loves being around people. He’s the perfect mix of fun and loyalty — always up for an adventure but just as happy to curl up beside you at the end of the day. Jay’s Perfect Home: • A kind, loving family who can include him in daily life • Secure fencing to keep
Read the full storyAugust 28, 2025
by Sharon Ashman Last fortnight, we met the Red Brain – the angry, reactive part that yells, hits, and melts down. But what about when your child isn’t exploding – they’re withdrawing? They’re quiet, teary, refusing to talk, or saying things like “I’m dumb,” “No one likes me,” or “I can’t do it.” That’s the Blue Brain. The Blue Brain is our emotional brain. It’s where sadness, worry, and fear live. It’s where kids feel hurt but don’t know how to ask for help. Unlike the Red Brain, the Blue Bra
Read the full storyAugust 21, 2025
Hi everyone, it’s me again! I had the privilege of attending VP and Vietnam Veterans Day last week. It’s always a great reminder to be thankful for the life we live today, and to honour those who sacrificed their life for us. You can read all about it on pages 6-7. In particular page 6 is a story close to my heart, as it’s about a local pastor who served in the Vietnam War, and despite the aftermath of traumatic events he endured, he found a light at the end of it all and has been comple
Read the full storyAugust 28, 2025
The Div 1 men headed to Mackay for key games against Lions. Div 2 were up first wanting a win to cement their place in the finals. In the first half, Whitsunday was very flat with little to show in attack and a single goal lead not showing the Lions’ dominance. Second half was a different story with the team firing up and playing some of their best football of the season. Macka had his best game so far and a breakaway goal near the end gave WUFC a 3-2 win and confidence before the finals series
Read the full storyAugust 28, 2025
A week of spirited play and community camaraderie has drawn to a close at the club, with members turning out in great numbers for our regular fixtures. The greens were alive with competition, good humour, and the unmistakable sense of friendly rivalry that defines bowls at Airlie Beach. Enthusiasm was high as participants vied for top honours and shared in the enjoyment of the game, whatever the result. The Saturday Scroungers final was held on 23 August, with Dennis Donadelli emerging victorio
Read the full storyAugust 28, 2025
On Saturday, Jonathan Bye represented Proserpine in the Champion of Champions Singles at Souths Suburban. Jonathan faced Wayne Handley in the second round, going down 25–16. Wayne then met Phillip Blackburn from Wests Tigers, who defeated him 25–22 before going on to claim the title. In Wednesday’s social bowls, Arthur Griffith and Henny Tattam edged out Trevor Parsons and Sandy Daffara 24–21, while John Anderson and Philip Brown recorded a strong 39–14 win over Alen Sanderson and Mike Harrison
Read the full storyAugust 15, 2025
The upcoming Flametree Gathering will feature two exciting last-minute additions to its music line-up. Whitsunday band Flying Double Front Kick, fronted by local musician Caden McCarthy, will take the stage on Friday night. "We’re really proud of the local talent that’s in the Whitsundays and we want to celebrate that,” organiser Bronwyn Garland said. Also joining the program is Cairns based Bobby Longstaff, a long-time Woodford Folk Festival performer renowned for his reggae rhythms and witt
Read the full storyAugust 29, 2025
Friday 29 August Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Graham Rix (from 8pm) KC's: Mick Woodbridge (from 8pm) Saturday 30 August Airlie Beach Hotel: Luke Combs (Tribute Show) (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm) Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (from 8pm) Coral Sea Pavilion: DJ Schae KC's: Sam McCann (from 8pm) Sunday 31 August Airlie Beach Hotel: Luke Combs(Tribute Show) (2pm – 5.30pm) Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6.30pm – 9.30pm) Grand
Read the full storyAugust 29, 2025
August 31 Bowen Community Markets, Hansen Park, from 8:00am September 2 Social Seniors - Coffee and Chat, Proserpine Library, from 9am 2 Tech Help, Cannonvale Library, 2:00pm-3:45pm 5 Don River Dash 300 Day 1, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm 3 Whitsunday Quilters & Hand Crafts Group, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:00am-1:30pm, $5pp. 6 Don River Dash 300 Day 2, Various Along Bowen’s Don River, 4:00pm-10:00pm **7 Father’s Day ** 7 Don River Dash 300 Day 3, Various Alon
Read the full storyAugust 29, 2025
For Rhythm And The Reef 2025 Mackay shook, sang, and danced like never before as Rhythm and The Reef 2025 smashed records, drawing over 7,200 fans across two unforgettable days. The festival kicked off with an exclusive Friday pre-party at McGuire’s Hotel before erupting into full swing at Meadowlands Amphitheatre on Saturday, 23 August. Award-winning Amy Shark headlined, backed by a powerhouse mix of Australian favourites and rising local stars, delivering a performance that had music lovers o
Read the full storyAugust 29, 2025
The St Patrick's College Cultural Showcase is being held on Thursday 4 September at the Bluewater Quay, in conjunction with the Riverside Markets. Join us as we celebrate the incredible talents of our students, showcasing captivating performances from a variety of college ensembles. Whether you’re a fan of rhythmic beats or melodious harmonies, the lineup has something for everyone. Including performances from the College Band, Drum Corp, Choir, Percussion Group, Stage Band and the lively
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