On Thursday the 17th of April, the Youth Space in Proserpine is holding a fun and festive Easter Bonanza just in time for the Easter weekend. From 3pm to 5pm bring the whole family and get creative with all the activities and crafts the Youth Space has on offer.

For just $5 per family, you and your children can get stuck-in with fun themed crafts and colouring. There will be cute card-making and Easter baskets to be constructed, perfect for the scavenger hunt that’s going to be held! How else will they carry all those eggs?

The Youth Space canteen will be open with cold drinks and tasty snacks available for purchase. Join them for an afternoon of creativity fit for the whole family and make some adorable Easter crafts ready for the Easter weekend. Call or text: 0458 438 169 for more details or let them know you're coming!

WHAT: Youth Space’s Easter Bonanza
WHEN: Thursday, 17th April 2025, 3pm-5pm
WHERE: Youth Space, 65 Marathon St. Proserpine.
Cost: $5 Per Family.

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Get ready for an unforgettable Elvis experience at the Airlie Beach Hotel this April! Australian Elvis tribute artist Damian Mullins will be performing not one, but two incredible shows that will transport you straight to the heart of the King of Rock and Roll’s most iconic eras. If you’re an Elvis fan, this is a weekend you won’t want to miss!

Damian’s journey to becoming one of Australia’s top Elvis tribute artists began with a childhood love for the King’s music. "As a young boy, my mum loved his music, she would play it when we travelled in the car. That's how I was exposed to his music, and ever since then, I have just loved his songs," Damian shares. His passion for Elvis (and jumpsuit collection) has grown over the years, and he continues to bring the legendary performer’s spirit to life on stage with every stunning performance.

In 2012 he won the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, a competition endorsed by Elvis Presley Enterprises. From that moment, his career as a full-time Elvis tribute artist took off and now, he’s bringing his electrifying shows to Airlie Beach for the first time ever!

The weekend kicks off with the Aloha From Hawaii show, a breathtaking tribute to Elvis’s legendary 1973 concert broadcast live via satellite. The ‘Aloha From Hawaii’ concert is one of those iconic moments in Elvis’s career, and Damien captures that amazing concert’s magic and grandeur. With a stunning live band and spectacular visuals, Damian will perform some of Elvis’s most memorable hits, including Burning Love, Suspicious Minds, and Can't Help Falling in Love. Be ready to expect a high-energy performance that will have you singing and dancing along.

Damian’s dedication to authenticity and his deep understanding of Elvis’s music ensures that fans of all ages will feel the magic of the King’s music. “It’s going to be a very big variety of Elvis’s music,” Damian explains, “I try to give the die-hard fans a great mix of his songs," His show isn’t just about singing as he thrives on audience interaction, ensuring that everyone feels involved in the experience.

On Sunday, Damian returns with the Elvis On Tour show, which celebrates the electrifying energy of Elvis during his prime. This show takes you on a nostalgic journey through Elvis’s most iconic tour performances, showcasing the charisma and passion that made him a global legend.

“I’m an Elvis entertainer more than an impersonator, yes, I look and sound like Elvis but I get a lot of good energy from entertaining. It’s just lots of fun,” Damian says. Any long-time Elvis fan will be swept away by the incredible energy and stage presence Damian brings to every show.

Join the fun as Damian Mullins is bringing something special to Airlie Beach Hotel with two distinct shows, each offering a unique Elvis experience, you’re guaranteed to be entertained. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Elvis and book your table now via the QR code and be ready to relive the unforgettable legacy of Elvis Presley!

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WHAT: Elvis’ “Aloha from Hawaii” Saturday 5th April | “Elvis on Tour” Sunday 6th April.
WHEN: Both shows are on at 2pm – 5:30 pm.
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel.

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St Catherine’s Catholic College proudly presents Meredith Wilson’s ‘The Music Man’. Written in 1957 and standing the test of time, this musical is sure to engage even the most dubious of musical audiences. The show is a six-time, Tony Award-winning musical comedy that has been entertaining audiences since 1957 and is a family-friendly story to be shared with every generation.

The Music Man follows fast-talking travelling salesman, Harold Hill, as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys' band that he promises to organise – this, despite the fact that he doesn't know one note from another. His plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian, the lovely librarian, who transforms him into a respectable citizen by curtain's fall.

Involving over 70 students as cast, crew and band, along with staff and community members of St Catherine’s, this musical has been a labour of love and a unique experience for all involved. Musical Director Betsy Atkinson has sung the praises of all involved and encourages as many people as possible to come along and enjoy the romance and music smorgasbord on offer in ‘The Music Man’.

“This has been such an awesome experience. The students have given this showt heir all and are so full of positive energy and talent. I have been humbled by the student and community involvement and can’t wait to show off the unique, gifted, hardworking individuals that I have the pleasure of teaching and working with” .

Our incredibly talented Music Director, Laura Robson, has been truly inspired by the students’ passion and commitment throughout the production.

“With a predominantly student-led band, this musical highlights the dedication and determination of young musicians performing at a professional level. Their skill and enthusiasm continue to amaze me at every rehearsal. It’s a true privilege to lead this orchestra and help bring our students’ musical abilities to life in a production featuring entirely live music. ”

Come and support the amazing St Catherine’s students and enjoy a night of entertainment and delight. Three evening shows and a matinee are scheduled at the PEC, with drinks available to purchase at every show. The performances provide options for everyone to enjoy this piece of musical theatre.

Tickets are on sale now and selling fast. To book your tickets, call the PEC 4945 0405, or visit: https://www.proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au.

When: 1st, 2nd, 3rd May
Tickets: Adults $37.50 | Concessions & High School & Tertiary Students $20.50 |
Children (2yrs - 12yrs) $12.50 | Children under 2 years Free

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Friday 21 March

The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm)

Grand View Hotel: Chris Webbe (4pm–8pm)

Saturday 22 March

The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Australian Eagles Tribute (2pm–5:30pm)

The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm–10pm)

Grand View Hotel: Ash Smith (4pm-8pm)

Coral Sea Pavilion:  Live Music & Chill DJ Session (1pm–6pm)

Sunday 23 March

The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Australian Eagles Tribute (2pm–5:30pm)

The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Paul Fergus Morris (6:30pm–9:30pm)

Grand View Hotel: Chris Webbe (4pm–8pm)

Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm-6pm)

Thursday 27 March

The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sam MaCann (6:30pm–9:30pm)

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20 Women & Girls Come and Try, Airlie Beach Bowls Club, 5pm-6pm

21 Harmony Day

21 Pram Pushers, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-10:30am

21 Seniors Computer Program, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-2:30pm, Bookings Required

21 Waldorf Playgroup, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 10:30am-13:30am, Call Emily: 0499 594 943

21 Drop-in Baby Clinic & Baby Play, Cooinda Family Centre, 10am-12pm

21 Adult Roller Skate Class, PCYC Whitsunday, 6pm-7pm

21 Alcoholics Anonymous, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 6pm-7:30pm

22 Park Run, Meeting Area D, Coral Sea Marina, starting at 7am

22 Airlie Beach Market, Airlie Beach, starting at 8am

22 How Do You Library? Community Expo, Bowen Library, 8:45am-11:45am

22 Maker Space 0-12yrs, Proserpine & Bowen Libraries, 9am-11am

22 Andrew de Silva's dedication to George Michael, Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7.30pm

23 Bowen Community Sunday Market, Hansen Park, from 8am

24 Lives Lived Well, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, Bookings Required

24 Chair Exercise, CWA Hall, 9am-10am

24 Pilates & Weights, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 11am-1:30pm, Call Janey: 0448 120 956

24 Bindi Bindi, Cooinda Family Centre, 9am-11am

24 Boardgames Club, Proserpine Library, from 1pm

24 Justice of the Peace, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:30am-2:30pm

25 DV Court Support, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 8:30am-11am

25 Sailability, Downstairs at the Whitsunday Sailing Club, Volunteers 8am-2pm & Sailors/Carers 9am-1pm, Bookings Required

25 Building Blocks, Cooinda Family Centre, 9am-11am

25 Emergency Relief, Bowen Neighbourhood Centre, 10:30am-11:30am

25 Waldorf Playgroup, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 10:30am-13:30am, Call Emily: 0499 594 943

25 Self Defence Academy, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 4pm-6:30pm, Call Zoran: 0432 599 907

26 Senior Pilates, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 7:45am-8:45am, Call Marina: 0472 711 767

26 Justice of the Peace, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9:30am-2:30pm

27 DVRS – Men's Behaviour Change Program, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, Bookings Required

27 Mylestone Employment, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 8am-5pm, Bookings Required

27 Bootscooters – Line dancing, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 9am-11am $4pp

27 Pilates & Weights, Whitsunday Neighbourhood Centre, 11am-1:30pm, Call Janey: 0448 120 956

27 Maker Space 6+yrs, Cannonvale Library, 3pm-4:30pm

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Proserpine State High School is proud to present their energetic school production of Disney’s Newsies – The Broadway Musical. With more than 100 students and staff bringing this entertaining musical to life on their Performing Arts Centre stage, and many months of hard work spent perfecting lines, dance routines, and musical scores, it promises to be a show to remember!

Based on the real-life Newsboy Strike of 1899, this Disney musical tells the story of Jack Kelly, a rebellious newsboy who dreams of a life as an artist away from the big city. After publishing giant Joseph Pulitzer raises newspaper prices at the newsboys' expense, Kelly and his newsies take action. With help from the beautiful female reporter Katherine Plumber, all of New York City soon recognises the power of "the little man".

Musical Director Amelia Hinschen said a highlight from rehearsals for the musical was the broad range of talent showcased by the students.

“They are a talented and creative group of singers, dancers, musicians, and actors who put their own flair on their characters and are willing to try what will work best as a cast,” she said.

“Five of our leads are Year 12 students who want to pursue acting or musical theatre for their tertiary studies next year. For them, it’s more than an opportunity to be up on stage; it’s what they want for a career.”

Many students' skills are also shining outside the spotlight, as they construct props, sew costumes, paint sets, prepare the technical side of the show, and assist in backstage roles.

Tickets are on sale now! Don’t miss the opportunity to support Proserpine State High School’s students and enjoy an unforgettable theatrical experience for the whole family. Shows run from Thursday 8th to Saturday 10th May, including three evening performances and one matinee on Saturday 10th May. Fish D'Vine will provide delicious food and drinks at all shows for purchase.

To book your tickets, visit: https://schoolshoponline.net.au/proserpineshs/eventdetails.aspx?ID=765

WHAT: Disney's Newsies the Musical
WHEN: 8th – 10th May at 7:30 pm | Saturday 10th May at 1:00 pm
WHERE: Proserpine High School’s Performing Arts Centre
TICKETS: $30 per adult | $24 per child or concession card holders

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For music lovers in Airlie Beach, the end of March promises an unforgettable experience as Bobby Bruce, known to the world as ‘Nearly Neil’, brings the iconic sound of Neil Diamond to life at The Pub. With two free shows on Saturday, March 29th, and Sunday, March 30th, from 2pm to 5.30pm, audiences are in for a nostalgic treat.

Direct from Vancouver, Canada, Bobby Bruce has been delighting audiences across the globe for nearly two decades with his tribute to Neil Diamond. Internationally, Bobby as Neil Diamond gained a loyal following, with his powerful vocals and stage presence placing him among the finest tribute acts in the world. The fact that we’re getting this calibre of performance for free is something special for Airlie Beach.

Bobby’s tribute to Neil Diamond started off as a party trick, which became a full-time career - “Well, oddly, I was in my hometown, Vancouver, and I was working at an Australian theme dinner theatre. We all had to impersonate someone, so I decided to do Tom Jones,” he recalls with a chuckle. “Someone said, ‘Doesn’t he sing Sweet Caroline?’ And I said, ‘No, no, that’s Neil Diamond.’ I opened my mouth, sang Sweet Caroline, and they all looked at me funny and said, ‘Maybe you should do him.’”.

Bobby’s voice is the heart of his performance, with his rendition of Neil Diamond’s classic hits like Cracklin’ Rosie, Kentucky Woman, and Sweet Caroline is nothing short of exhilarating. But it’s the song Holly Holy that truly resonates with him. “My favourite to sing is Holly Holy. It has the nice peaks and valleys. It’s a nice song for me to sing, and it gets a very swoony reaction from the crowd.”

For Bobby, Neil Diamond was the soundtrack of his childhood - “It was my parents’ music,” he shared. “They played it, and all of our family and friends played it. It was always on the old eighties tracks when we were travelling in the car.” This connection with the music is something Bobby shares with his audience, and it’s a powerful experience. “I really enjoy seeing that come alive in the faces of people in the audience. You can see the memories coming back for them too.”

This upcoming performance promises to be an absolute treat, with all of Neil Diamond’s greatest hits in store and even a special extra set to showcase Bobby’s incredible vocal range. "Expect all the big hits of Neil Diamond that you would know in this country," says Bobby. “Plus, we'll be doing an extra set of music, giving me an opportunity to showcase the other things I can do with my voice.”

With the Solitary Band backing him, featuring Amanda Easton Morel on backing vocals, Dale Genner on keyboards, Mitch Farmer on drums, Jeff Camilleri on bass, and Rex Goh on electric guitar, the performance promises to be an unforgettable musical experience.

Get ready to relive the magic and legacy of Neil Diamond, as Nearly Neil brings his extraordinary talent to Airlie Beach with an afternoon of classic hits. Be sure to book your table by scanning the QR Code to reserve your spot today!

WHAT: Bobby Bruce & The Solitary Band - The Ultimate Neil Diamond Legacy
WHEN: March, Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th 2pm – 5.30pm
WHERE: The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel

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In 2024, The Australian and HarperCollins Australia launched the Australian Fiction Prize, a prestigious new literary award aimed at celebrating exceptional Australian storytelling. Open to all Australian writers, this annual prize offers a remarkable opportunity for aspiring authors to showcase their talent.

The winner will receive $20,000 in prize money, $15,000 in advance, and the chance to be published by HarperCollins Australia. The inaugural winner, Katherine Johnson, took home the prize with her novel A Wild Heart, marking a successful start for this new award.

There were over 500 entries last year, and this year there’s hope that a local Whitsunday author may take home the prize. This is your opportunity to participate and get your work in front of HarperCollins' talented publishers.

Entries are now open for 2025, the prize promises to continue its mission of uncovering Australia's next great writer. It’s time to get those pens scribbling or those keyboards clacking and submit your manuscript today!

For those interested in entering, there’s an FAQ available at www.harpercollins.com.au/theaustralianfictionprize. This prize builds on the legacy of the iconic Vogel’s Award, celebrating Australia’s literary talent and nurturing the nation’s storytelling future and you could be next!

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This is the first of three productions in Mackay Choral Society’s 80th anniversary year, for which the theme Present, Past, and Future has been adopted. Although Mackay Choral Society has performed Gilbert and Sullivan shows in the past, these have become popular again with both current members and audiences, and so this production represents the Present.

Synopsis

Since its premiere in 1885 at the Savoy Theatre in London, The Mikado (or The Town of Titipu) has become one of history's most-performed pieces of musical theatre. As with many of Gilbert and Sullivan’s productions, the show satirises aspects of Victorian Britain’s politics and aristocracy; in The Mikado, however, the duo cleverly cloaked these criticisms behind a charming story set not in Britain, but in exotic Japan.

Nanki-Poo, the son of the Mikado (the Japanese Emperor), has fled in disguise to avoid marrying a woman from his father’s royal court and to find and marry his beloved, the beautiful Yum-Yum. Yum-Yum, however, is the ward of Ko-Ko, the Lord High Executioner, and has become betrothed to him against her will. In the meantime, Ko-Ko finds his job difficult to carry out as the Mikado puts pressure on him to fulfill his quota of killings, but the Executioner realises he is too soft-hearted to kill anyone. His solution is to trade a month of marriage to Yum-Yum for Nanki-Poo’s life (though he only pretends to kill him), but, of course, the plan backfires as Ko-Ko finds himself subject to capital punishment for allegedly killing the Mikado’s son.

As usual in Gilbert’s imaginative plots, the tangled web unravels, and everyone lives happily ever after. This complex satire is characterised by the clever wordplay, memorable tunes, and endearing characters that have allowed Gilbert and Sullivan’s popularity with audiences to endure for well over a century.

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The Cast And Crew

The cast members, chorus, and musicians have been busy rehearsing since January under the expert direction of musical director Nicole Thomson and the invaluable accompaniment of Professor Judith Brown AM. The production crew, led by Mackay Choral Society President Bernie Cheng, is pushing ahead with props and costumes, ready to present a polished show with wonderful singing.

What: In Celebration of their 80th Anniversary, Mackay Choral Society is proud to present The Mikado
When: Thurs 3 April at 7:30PM, Sat 5 April at 2:00PM & 7:30PM, and Sun 6 April at 2:00PM 2025
Where: CQCM Theatre, Building 21 University Drive, 151 Boundary Road, Ooralea Qld 4740
Ticket Prices: Adult $35, Concession $30, Children $20
Book at: www.trybooking.com/CYRRO or call 0422 264 397

Visit mackaychoralsociety.org.au for more information.

Contributed by Isobel Gillman

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Mackay Choral Society celebrates its 80th anniversary with The Mikado, the first of three productions reflecting the theme Present, Past, and Future, showcasing the enduring popularity of Gilbert and Sullivan’s works. Image supplied

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The Mackay Woodturners Association Expo saw an impressive turnout over the weekend, with visitors of all ages drawn to the craftsmanship and creativity on display. Held at Snow Wright Court in Beaconsfield, the event showcased a stunning collection of handcrafted wooden pieces, from elegant homewares to intricate toys and bespoke furniture.

One of the biggest surprises for attendees was just how affordable these high-quality, handmade items were. Many assumed bespoke craftsmanship came with a hefty price tag, but instead, they found beautifully crafted wooden items priced lower than their plastic counterparts in stores. One mother remarked that not only were the wooden toys affordable, but they were also designed to last for generations—making them a more sustainable and meaningful purchase.

The Expo was not just about sales; it was a celebration of skill and community. Visitors had the chance to meet the talented woodturners, watch live demonstrations, and gain insight into the dedication behind each creation. The event also reinforced the value of supporting local artisans and choosing sustainable, handcrafted goods over mass-produced alternatives.

With its mix of artistry, education, and affordability, the Expo was a resounding success, leaving many inspired and eager for the next event.

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Craftsmen displayed their handmade creations and visitors enjoyed the Mackay Woodturners Expo, celebrating skill, creativity, and the beauty of handmade wooden treasures. Photo credit: Amanda Wright

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Friday 21st March

Crochet and Conversation
9am
Join the friendly group of Northern Beaches locals at Beachfront Bar & Restaurant on Bucasia Esplanade for a morning of crocheting, coffee, and conversation. BYO crochet tools or borrow from our communal box. All skill levels welcome. This is a great opportunity to connect, share experiences, and start our next project for the Northern Beaches community in 2025.
Beachfront Bar and Restaurant, Bucasia

Family Boogie Night
5.30pm
Family Boogie Night is a fun, interactive event where children and families connect through dance. Everyone is encouraged to join in—whether you dance great or dance silly, it’s all about having fun together! Enjoy games, prizes, and an evening of joy and laughter. All ages and skill levels are welcome. This drug- and alcohol-free community event is just $1 for a sausage sizzle, with a gold coin donation per family.
Andergrove Community Hall

Friday Jazz At The Con – Featuring Stephanie Dick
6pm
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of smooth melodies and soulful rhythms at Friday Night Jazz at the Con! This week, they’re thrilled to welcome the incredible Stephanie Dick, a powerhouse vocalist known for her rich tones and captivating stage presence. Visit www.cqu.edu.au/events/1203415/friday-jazz-feat-stephanie-dick for more info, or book your Tickets now at:  cqcm.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/141101
Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music

LIVE Music
6-9pm
Enjoy LIVE music every Friday at Ocean International – it’s a performance you won’t want to miss! Pizzas & tapas available on the deck! Call 4957 2044 to make your booking!
Ocean International

Dancing With Heart
6.30pm
Well-known Mackay identities will take to the stage for a fun-filled night of dance, featuring a thoughtfully choreographed performance by Dolly Louw at Fame Talent School. A panel of judges will select the winning dancer, with additional prizes, including the People’s Choice award. Expect an evening of lively competition and community spirit, all in support of our local hospitals!
The MECC

Saturday 22nd March

Beginner Floral Workshop – Fresh And Dried Designs
12.30pm
On Saturday, March 22nd, from 12:30pm to 2:30pm, join a hands-on floral arranging workshop where participants will create a fresh hand-tied bouquet and a stylish dried floral pot arrangement. No experience is required—just bring a love for flowers! The $165 fee includes all materials, expert guidance, plus nibbles and a light beverage. Limited spots available—book online to secure.
The Florist Fourways

Mackay Twilight Market
4pm
The Mackay Twilight Market is a night of fun for the whole family! Explore a variety of market stalls, enjoy live music, kids' activities, and indulge in delicious food at Eat Street. Everyone is welcome, with something for all ages and interests. This community event has a $2 entry for adults and is free for kids 17 and under.
Mackay Showgrounds

Mackay Rotary Charity Wine Dinner
5.30pm
An elegant evening of fine wines, a 5-course degustation, and exciting auctions awaits, all in support of charities helping women and children impacted by domestic violence. Guests can enjoy a wine auction, Grange wine raffle, and a lucky door prize, along with a gourmet dining experience. Tickets are $159 per person + booking fees. Dress Code: After five (coats and ties optional for men). Supported by Treasury Wines.
Harrup Park

Sunday 23rd March

Sunday Buffet Breakfast
9-11am
Start your Sunday with a delicious Bullet Breakfast at Goosies from 9 am to 11 am. Enjoy a variety of options, including eggs, maple bacon, chipolata sausages, fresh croissants, fruit salad, baked beans, cereals, juices, and more. Adults: $20 for members, $23 for non-members. Kids 12 years and under: $10. Head to Gooseponds Sport and Recreation Club for a hearty start to the day!
Goosies Sport and Recreation Club

Dance Fit With Elena
10am-11.30am
Dance Fit with Elena offers a fun and energising way to stay active while connecting with great people! Whether you're a beginner or experienced dancer, this class is all about having fun and releasing stress on the dance floor. Held every Sunday (except select dates), the class is just $5 and requires no booking. Bring sun protection, water, a towel, and a smile! Comfortable activewear and shoes are recommended.
Bluewater Quay, River Street (next to Forgan bridge)

Ds Family Fun Day
10.30am
Join Lori and the community for a fun-filled Family Funday, aimed at bringing together families and friends to celebrate old memories and create new ones. Open to anyone supporting a loved one with Down syndrome, the event will feature a kids’ area, air conditioning, and fencing. Volunteers will be available to help with the children while parents connect.
Location to be confirmed

CASA Sunday BBQ
11am-12pm
CASA invites everyone to the Blue Water Quay BBQ area every Sunday for a complimentary sausage sizzle. It’s a chance to relax, enjoy some good food, and connect with friends. Bring a smile and your appetite!
Blue Water Quay BBQ Area

Live Music At The Pinnacle
11.30am-3pm
Enjoy live music from 11:30 am to 3pm! Indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnacle Family Hotel

Tuesday 25th March

BMA Kidspace
10am
BMA Kidspace at Artspace Mackay offers a free, interactive program for toddlers (0-5 years) to explore art in a cooperative learning environment. Enjoy two drop-in art sessions, live music, and plenty of fun. Kids can participate in art-making, singing, and dancing anytime between 10am and 2pm. Sessions are held monthly on select Tuesdays.
Artspace Mackay, Civic Precinct, Gordon Steet

Wednesday 26th March

Judith, Stuart And Friends
6pm
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of music and mystery! Immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of the Scottish Highlands as they unravel the mystery of the missing Mackay bagpipes. This unique concert blends traditional bagpipe melodies with an interactive mystery storyline, an experience you won't want to miss!. For more info, visit: www.cqu.edu.au/events/1203406/judith-stuart-and-friends.
Free entry, no booking required!
Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music

Thursday 27th March

The MECC Presents YOAH
7.30pm
YOAH, the latest work from Japan’s CIRQUEWORK, makes its Mackay debut. This contemporary circus blends Japanese traditions with digital artistry, following a young dreamer's journey through fear, loneliness, and hope. Featuring breathtaking acrobatics, stunning visuals, and a powerful soundtrack of water sounds, traditional drumming, and electro beats, YOAH delivers a captivating, electrifying experience.
The MECC

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Mackay is about to be transformed into a floral wonderland as the Mackay and District Orchid Society prepares to host its Autumn Orchid Show on March 22 and 23 at the Mackay and District Senior Citizens’ Centre.

For two days, visitors will be treated to a stunning showcase of orchids in full bloom, alongside a treasure trove of gardening goodies, including orchids for sale, pots, potting mediums, tags, and accessories. Whether you're an experienced orchid enthusiast or simply appreciate stunning blooms, this event has something for everyone to enjoy.

Want to sharpen your green thumb? Orchid culture demonstrations will take place at 10:30am on both days and 1:30pm on Saturday, offering expert tips on how to keep those blooms thriving. And no show is complete without a little indulgence – homemade treats will be available to enjoy with a cuppa.

For just a $2 gold coin donation, visitors can wander through a floral paradise, soak in the scent of orchids, and even take a piece of the magic home.

Where: Mackay and District Senior Citizens’ Centre, 58 Macalister Street, Mackay
When: Saturday, March 22 (8:00am – 4:00pm) and Sunday, March 23 (8:00am – 3:00pm)

Don't miss this chance to step into a world of colour, fragrance, and floral inspiration!

For updates, follow Mackay and District Orchid Society Inc on Facebook or visit www.mdos.com.au. For further information, contact President Noel Acton on 0409 637 384.

Mackay’s Autumn Orchid Show on March 22-23 promises a floral paradise, featuring stunning orchids, gardening essentials, expert demonstrations, and homemade treats for all to enjoy. Photos supplied

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Calling all actors, of all ages, who get a buzz out of making people laugh. In this crazy world we live in, what’s better than a good old ‘belly laugh’ to brighten up your day!

Well, here’s your opportunity.

My name is Maureen Coleman, and I am a member of Kucom Theatre here in Mackay. I will be directing a comedy called Bob’s your Auntie by Thomas Amo for our June production.

Performance dates are 12th, 13th, 14th 19th, 20th & 21st June with a start of 7.30pm, and a matinee on Sunday 15th June at 2.00pm.

I am seeking seven men (young and not-so-young) and two young ladies to portray this crazy bunch of characters.

The story in a nutshell:
Robert has returned from his Auntie’s funeral only to find the taxman at his door for unpaid taxes. At the same time a call comes in from the Lottery commission to say Auntie has just won a considerable amount on one of her tickets, of which there are dozens.

What ensues is a melee of total confusion when Robert, his girlfriend Juliet, and his friends Dinsdale and Basil, think of how one of them can impersonate Auntie when the man with the cheque turns up to present it. The Vicar, a Police Constable and an attractive member of the media complete this mad ensemble.

Auditions are at 2.00pm, 23rd March 2025 at Kucom Theatre (1 Snow Wright Court, Andergrove).

If you can’t make it then, I am always available to make a time suitable for you to audition.

I hope to see you there!

_Download the audition pack at bit.ly/3Dm61nu or click on the QR code in the poster for more information. _

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Maureen Coleman

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Mark your calendars and dust off your dancing shoes – River of Life Festival 2025 is set to bring a whirlwind of music, fun, and feel-good vibes to Mackay. This free, family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, 29th March, at Mackay’s picture-perfect Blue Water Quay and River Wharves.

The popular festival has grown beyond expectations, drawing thousands of attendees in its second year. Originally planned as a one-off event, community enthusiasm has likened it to be an annual celebration.

Festival organiser and musician Greg Shaw said the overwhelming response made it clear that the event had to continue.

“People kept saying ‘next year, next year’ – so here we are,” he said.

This year’s festival will be bigger than ever, featuring live music and dance performances, food from local vendors, a dedicated kids’ zone with face painting, games, and activities, as well as interactive workshops for all ages. A new addition for 2025 is the Garden Stage, a vibrant space featuring more food stalls and entertainment to support the growing attendance.

Shaw said keeping the festival community-driven was a top priority.

“We want to make it a fun day where families don’t have to hit their wallets,” he said.

“That’s why we work hard to secure sponsorships and funding, ensuring the event remains completely free for everyone.”

The festival relies solely on the generosity of its sponsors and partners.

Mackay Regional Council, Mackay Toyota, Explore Property Mackay, CQ Field Mining Services, Mind Matters Psychology Mackay, Red Dog Brewery, and SH Tait & Co Chartered Accountants are among the valued sponsors, while DeWaard’s Demolition plays a key role as a community partner. Their support helps keep the festival free for all.

Despite the green light to go ahead, the event organisers are in desperate need of extra hands.

“We need strong hands for setup, and there are roles for everyone, young and old,” Shaw said.

“We would greatly appreciate any help we can get.”

Volunteers are required across three days, from setting up on Friday to assisting during the festival on Saturday and packing down on Sunday. Individuals, sporting teams, and community groups are encouraged to get involved.

For more information or to sign up as a volunteer, visit the River of Life Festival 2025 Facebook page or email rolfassociation@gmail.com.

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Join the fun and support the River of Life Festival 2025! Volunteers are needed for setup, assistance, and packing down. Get involved and make this family-friendly event a success for all!

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In the spirit of Ramadan, local children came together to pack 100 Welcome Ramadan Packs, spreading kindness and goodwill to the community. Each pack contains dates, information about Ramadan, and a special invitation to the upcoming Community Iftar Dinner on March 22. Hosted by the Islamic Society of Mackay, the event offers an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come together, share a meal, and experience the significance of Ramadan. Those who received an invite or heard about the event are encouraged to attend with their families. The dinner is free, and RSVPs can be made via Eventbrite.

What: Community Iftar Dinner, Hosted by the Islamic Society of Mackay
When: March 22, 5.30pm-8pm
Where: 5 Flinders Court Bakers Creek, 4740
Tickets: FREE via Eventbrite.com

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