Airlie Beach, are you ready to embark on a musical journey like no other? The ultimate party band, Sex & Chocolate, will soon grace the Airlie Beach Hotel stage with their highly anticipated show, Motown to Millennia for two electrifying afternoons on Saturday 14 December and Sunday 15 December!
Prepare to move, groove, and sing along as the iconic band takes you on a nostalgic ride from the soulful sounds of the Motown era to the chart-topping rhythms of the new millennium.
With over twenty-five years of exceptional performances under their belt, Sex & Chocolate has been wowing audiences across Australia with its incredible vocals, electrifying talents, and expertly choreographed shows. Their latest, dynamic performance, Motown to Millennia, promises a wonderful, and effortless blend of Motown classics with funky, disco anthems, smooth RnB grooves, and top hits from the past few decades.
A performance for audiences of young and old, Sex & Chocolate promises something for everyone! Harmonies of The Temptations, The Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, and The Spinners alongside iconic sounds from Prince, Shaggy, Billy Ocean, and Bruno Mars will ignite the Airlie Beach Hotel for a December weekend to remember.
Audiences can expect to enjoy plenty of classics pared with the commendable, dazzling choreography of each of the band’s showstopping artists to keep you dancing on your feet well into the evening!
Sex & Chocolate are infamous for their high energy performances, and impeccable vocal harmonies staging four sensational, award-winning singers.
With a newly added female member to the band, Sex & Chocolate promises plenty of magic, excitement, energy, and talent as they recreate the legendary sounds of some of the greatest vocal groups of all time such as, The Jackson Five, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, and Marvin Gaye to transport you back to the golden age of music.
Each performance held on both Saturday and Sunday will run from 2pm through to 5:30pm, with both promising to celebrate music, soul, and dance to have you’re dancing shoes begging for more.
Set aside a special place in your schedule, and mark your calendars for this electrifying, and unforgettable performance!
Sex & Chocolate’s Motown to Millennia show will dazzle the Airlie Beach Hotel on the 14 and 15 of December with tickets on sale now and booking out quickly. Gather your friends and let the magic of Motown and modern hits take you on a journey you’ll never forget!

What: Sex & Chocolate Presents Motown to Millennia.
When: Saturday 14 December and Sunday 15 December, 2pm to 5:30pm.
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel.
More Information: 'Motown To Millennia' Sex & Chocolate - Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th December - 'The Pub' at Airlie Beach Hotel.

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On the evening of Friday, 15 November, an abundance of imagination and creativity flooded the walls, halls, and floors of the Proserpine Museum with the exquisite talents of both novice and professional artists showcased for the community to enjoy.

A spectacular grand opening, the evening staged the debut of the 2024 Accomplished and Emerging Artists Exhibition to celebrate and commend the talents of the Whitsunday region. Councillor John Collins led the official proceedings and opened the event where he was gratefully gifted a wonderful piece of artwork painted especially for him by Dawn Pearce - the driving force responsible for making the exceptional evening possible.

“Each piece on display is a testament to the passion and vision of the artists who’ve poured their hearts into their work and some of them are seasoned artists, while others are just starting out – which they should be very proud of,” shared Cr John Collins.

The 2024 exhibition has been described as a magical mix of mediums with fabric art, painted pieces, basket weaving, jewellery, woodwork, and photography included in the showcase. Across each individual piece, the passion and talents of every artist comes alive, especially in the case of emerging artists where audiences can see a wonderful display of promise.

Dawn Pearce holds a world of teaching experience extending over three decades where she has provided countless artists with the amazing opportunity to exhibit their talents for others to see. An accomplished art teacher, her passion for sharing other people’s talents draws from her love for seeing art flourish, whilst proudly showing onlookers the potential of artists within her community.

The Proserpine Museum warmly welcomes the community to visit the showcase for themselves and witness the magical talents of their neighbours. The beautiful exhibition will be on display until Tuesday 17 December, and with so much to admire, its well worth to visit more than once.

What: 2024 Accomplished and Emerging Artists Exhibition.
When: Weekdays between 9am to 4pm Monday to Thursday, and 9am to 2pm on Friday until Tuesday 17 December.
Where: Proserpine Museum.
More Information: proserpinehistoricalmuseum.com.

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Councillor John Collins was presented with a wonderful piece of artwork painted especially for him by Dawn Pearce. Photo supplied

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Airlie Beach will be hosting a fantastic evening of Christmas Carols and Holiday Movies at the Foreshore this Sunday.
Kicking off at 4pm on the 1st of December, the evening will begin with joyful Christmas carols, where the community can join together in singing your favourite holiday tunes to spread the festive cheer together.
Following the Christmas Carols, the evening continues with a festive double movie feature under the stars!
First, watch the holiday special Merry Madagascar, followed by the classic family favourite Home Alone 2.
This free, family-friendly event is sure to bring holiday magic to everyone.
For the event you will need your festive spirit, a picnic blanket or chair and your favourite snacks or enjoy a delicious bite from the fantastic food vendors.
Both events are no smoking and alcohol-free. In the event of bad weather, the movie night will be cancelled. Check the Whitsunday Regional Council's website for updates!
Don’t miss out on the carols and this festive movie night, its set to be a night full of festive cheer.
What: Airlie Beach Christmas Carols and Holiday Movies
When: 1st December 4pm
Where: Airlie Beach Foreshore.

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Friday 29 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers (7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: DJ Wontok(4pm–8pm)

Saturday 30 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Tusk’ Fleetwood Mac (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Blues Brothers (7pm–10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Sam McCann (4pm–8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm)Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm–6pm)

Sunday 1 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Tusk’ Fleetwood Mac (2pm–5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Sam McCann (6:30pm–9.30pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (2pm-6pm)

Thursday 5 December
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm–9.30pm)

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November
28         Social Sunrise Dip, Boathaven Beach, Airlie Beach, from 7am
29         Youth Space’s Senior’s Sesh for youth aged 14+, 65 Marathon Street, Proserpine, from 3pm
29-30 Chez's House of Dance & Whitsunday Allstars Annual Concert 2024, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am and 6.30pm

December
1 Carols by the Beach, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 4pm
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
6 Toni Childs: A Retrospective, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
7           Airlie Beach parkrun’s 9th Anniversary, from 7am
7            Women in Boating – On the Reef, Coral Sea Marina, The Lookout Lounge, from 5:30pm
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
14         Book Launch, Beach Book Boutique, Airlie Beach, from 11am
14 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
15 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 2pm & 6.30pm
18 Mada’s Magic Marvels, from 11am and 3pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
30         Dune Rats, Magnums Airlie Beach, from 7:30pm

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November
16-22 Airlie Beach Schoolies Festival 2024
22-23 Out of this World, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, 7pm Friday and 11am, 6.30pm on Saturday
23 Hamilton Island Triathlon
24 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am
24          Breast and Prostate Cancer Awareness Day, Proserpine Golf Club, from 10am
29-30 Chez's House of Dance & Whitsunday Allstars Annual Concert 2024, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 11am and 6.30pm

December
1 Carols by the Beach, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 4pm
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
6 Toni Childs: A Retrospective, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
13 Airlie Beach Movie Night – Arthur Christmas & Fred Claus, Airlie Beach Foreshore, from 6pm
14 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 7.30pm
15 Christmas Actually, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre, from 2pm & 6.30pm
18 Mada’s Magic Marvels, from 11am and 3pm
29 Dingo Beach Sunday Markets, Dingo Beach Community Hall grounds, from 8am

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Prepare to embark on a magical, musical journey back in time to the golden era of rock as Tusk, the Storybook Tribute to Fleetwood Mac, brings their dazzling show to the Airlie Beach Hotel for two wonderful and memorable performances next weekend. Renowned for their charm, character, and class, Tusk delivers a powerful homage to the iconic band that defined a generation, and on both Saturday 30 November, and Sunday 1 December, Tusk will illuminate the Airlie Beach Hotel from 2pm with audiences sure to be singing and dancing well into the late afternoon!

Penni Jones takes centre stage as the infamous Stevie Nicks, with a spectacularly authentic performance channelling the true essence of the rock queen herself. Backing her is an extraordinary lineup of Dalys Timpanaro as Christine McVie, James Towers as Lindsay Buckingham, Rob Brens as Mick Fleetwood, and Grant Canterbury as John McVie, each bringing their own flair to recreate the magnificent magic of Fleetwood Mac.

“Collectively we share decades of experience from various cover bands in the 90s, 00s, and now,” explained Penni.

“We’ve had tours of Australia and the world doing backing vocals for the country's greatest artists, cruise ship shows, and European tours in various original acts.”

Founded in 2015, Tusk began with Penni’s vision of crafting a show extending far beyond traditional tribute performances, opting instead for a more interactive and immersive experience. With meticulous attention to detail and show-stopping renditions, audiences will find themselves swept back in time to Fleetwood Mac’s heyday as Tusk ignites one of their favourite stages.

“The Airlie Beach Hotel is our favourite part of Airlie Beach, of course - what an amazing venue - bringing the country’s best shows to a place that has such a beautiful and warm vibe,” shared Penni.

“Everyone is on Airlie Beach time and is always happy, welcoming, and relaxed.”

Attendees can expect all the crowd-pleasers, plus a few surprises as the terrific tribute band graces the region for a third time.

“When the band plays, it becomes a dance party, including a drum solo, and we can’t wait to get up there and share our show with the community and The Pub!

I personally look forward to getting out in the crowd again and having a Fleetwood Mac dance floor like our last show (2023).”

With standout performances of tracks like ‘Edge of 17’ and ‘The Chain’, Tusk will make dreams come true for Fleetwood Mac fans for a weekend of nostalgia, and fantastic vibes!

Don’t miss Tusk at the Airlie Beach Hotel - where the spirit of Fleetwood Mac will come alive and the dance floor won’t stop until the last note fades - book your table now!

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What: Tusk: The Storybook Tribute to Fleetwood Mac.
When: Saturday 30 November and Sunday 1 December, 2pm to 5:30pm.
Where: Airlie Beach Hotel.
More Information: https://thepubairliebeach.com.au.

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Friday 22 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Chris Webbe (4pm – 8pm)

Saturday 23 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Late for Woodstock (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Andy Mammers (7pm – 10pm)
Grand View Hotel: Daybreak (4pm – 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Live Music (from 1pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill DJ Session (2pm – 6pm)

Sunday 24 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Late for Woodstock (2pm – 5.30pm)
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Nick Di Gregorio (6:30pm – 9.30pm)
Grand View Hotel: Chris Webbe (4pm – 8pm)
Coral Sea Pavilion: Chill Acoustic Session (from 2pm – 6pm)

Thursday 28 November
The Pub, Airlie Beach Hotel: Chris Booroff (6.30pm – 9.30pm)

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The festive season is a time for kindness, generosity, and community spirit, and Mackay offers numerous opportunities to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing challenges. Whether it's donating toys and festive food through the Whitsunday Foodbank, spreading hope to survivors of domestic violence with Broken Ballerina Inc., or brightening the holidays for vulnerable families, every small act of kindness helps.

Local initiatives such as the Cheeky Little Monkeys donation drive, the Neighbourhood Hub’s Christmas appeal, and Goodstart Early Learning’s hamper program showcase the power of giving. Even something as simple as writing a heartfelt card for aged care residents can bring immense joy. Together, the Mackay community can create a season filled with compassion and connection, ensuring that everyone has the chance to celebrate and feel cared for.

Explore these initiatives and discover how you can contribute to spreading Christmas cheer this holiday season:

Whitsunday Foodbank Mackay: Brighten Christmas With Toys and Food Donations
Recipient: Individuals and families in need – through Whitsunday Foodbank Mackay
Description: Help ensure every child experiences the magic of Christmas by donating new, unwrapped toys, books, puzzles, games, or gift cards for teens. From dolls and action figures to books and games, your thoughtful gift can create lasting memories for children who might otherwise go without. Gift cards for older kids are especially appreciated, offering them the joy of choice this festive season. You can also donate to their food drive, with contributions of essential pantry items, such as canned goods, pasta, and rice - along with festive treats like Christmas pudding, lollies, biscuits, and custard powder, to help brighten the family celebrations.
Donation drop off: Whitsunday Food Bank Mackay, 352 Bridge Road, West Mackay.

Broken Ballerina Inc: Spread Hope To Survivors This Christmas
Recipient: Individuals and families impacted by domestic and family violence – through Broken Ballerina Inc  
Description: Christmas is a time of celebration and joy, but for those who have experienced trauma, the season can often bring feelings of isolation, hardship, and financial strain. Broken Ballerina Inc. is committed to making the holidays a little brighter for these brave survivors by providing essential items, hampers, and gift vouchers for stores like Kmart, Big W, and Woolworths. These donations will help survivors of domestic violence enjoy a Christmas filled with dignity and hope, providing them with the means to have a festive meal, purchase essentials, and even gifts for their families. Every donation, whether a hamper or a gift voucher, is a gesture of kindness that will make a real difference in someone’s life.
Donation drop off: Portside Takeaway & Convenience or contact Julez_n@hotmail.com to deliver to Broken Ballerina directly

Mackay Hospital Foundation, Ronald McDonald House and Chances Café: Donate To The Christmas Drive For Those In Need
Recipient: Individuals and families experiencing medical treatment or homelessness through the Mackay Hospital Foundation, Ronald McDonald House & Chances Café
Description: Cheeky Little Monkeys is hosting a Christmas Donation Drive, focusing on spreading festive cheer to those facing challenges during the holidays, including the homeless and hospitalised individuals. This initiative aims to provide gifts and basic necessities to those who might otherwise be overlooked during the holiday season. Donations of non-perishable food, new toys, and age-appropriate gifts will be collected, offering something special for every recipient. Alternatively, for those who prefer a simpler way to give, the wishing tree allows you to purchase a bauble, and Cheeky Little Monkeys will take care of the shopping on your behalf.  
Donation drop off: Cheeky Little Monkeys located at 118 Wood Street, Mackay - open until December 21st.

The Neighbourhood Hub: Support Local Families With The Community Christmas Appeal
Recipient: Individuals and families in financial hardship - through the Neighbourhood Hub
Description: The Neighbourhood Hub is running its Community Christmas Appeal, inviting the community to come together and help spread holiday cheer to families facing financial hardship. The appeal is collecting essential items such as Christmas pudding, long-life custard, breakfast foods, and grocery vouchers, all of which will be included in hampers for local families in need. These hampers will offer vital support during the holiday season, ensuring that no one goes without a festive meal.
Donation drop off: The Neighbourhood Hub located at 4 George Street, Mackay, between 8:30am and 3pm, Monday to Friday, until December 13th.

Mackay Women’s Service: Give Christmas Hampers To Vulnerable Families
Recipient: Individuals and families experiencing hardship –through Mackay Women’s Services
Description: As many individuals face financial strain during the holidays, Goodstart Early Learning Mackay is asking the community to donate either toy vouchers or fully packaged Christmas hampers filled with essential items. Toy vouchers from stores such as Target, Kmart, Big W, and Myer will help ensure that children receive gifts they deserve. Additionally, hampers filled with everything a family needs for a Christmas meal, including dry goods, festive treats, and gifts, will help brighten the season for those who are struggling.
Donation drop off: Goodstart Early Learning Mackay – to be dropped off by Thursday, December 12th, and the hampers will be delivered on the 13th.

Write A Christmas Card: Bring Joy To Aged Care Residents
Recipient: Residents of Local Aged Care Homes
Description: Spread some Christmas cheer to residents in our local aged care homes in Mackay, Sarina, and Mirani by writing them a heartfelt card! Whether it’s a purchased card or a simple folded piece of paper, your message can be funny, touching, or anything positive to brighten their day. Sign off with your first name, family name, or your child’s first name and age.
Donation drop off: Crusty’s Bakery (Milton St), any Ma’s Pizza outlets, or Terry White Sarina (Broad St)

Collection for Chances House: Donate Non - Perishable Food And Toiletries
Recipient: Those experiencing hardship and homelessness – through Chances House
Description: Help make Christmas brighter for those in need by donating non-perishable food and toiletry items! Move It Chiropractic is collecting these donations to support the efforts of Chances House, which provides vital services for individuals experiencing hardship. Items like canned goods, pasta, rice, and hygiene products will be accepted.
Donation drop off: Drop your donations at Move It Chiropractic, 19 Gordon St, Mackay
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Donate to the Pyjama Foundation: Gifts For Foster Kids
Recipient: Children and families in foster care – through The Pyjama Foundation
Description: This Christmas, explore the joy of giving by donating gifts to children in foster care through the Pyjama Foundation. They are collecting toys for kids of all ages. Whether it’s for young children or older kids, any gift will make a difference!
Donation drop off: Drop your donations at Explore Property, 1/224 Victoria Street, Mackay.
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Gift Wrap And Give Back At Caneland Central, Mt P and HomeCo Shopping Centres
Recipient: BMA CQ Rescue
Description: This festive season, have your gifts wrapped by the wonderful volunteers from ESA Alpha Rho at Caneland Central. For a gold coin donation per gift, you can support BMA CQ Rescue while saving time on your holiday wrapping. Larger parcels (1 meter on any side) require a $5 minimum donation. EFTPOS available. Wrapping stations for charity are usually also found at HomeCo and Mt P, though information on these wasn’t available at time of print.
Gift Wrapping Location: Visit the wrapping stations at Target Court (Ground Floor) or opposite JB Hi-Fi (Level 1) during centre trading hours.

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LOOSE ENDS opens Friday December 6th and will be a night to remember, where the community comes together to embrace difference and celebrate diversity! Get ready for a quirky night of entertainment, giveaways, fundraising, socialising and more as Crossroad Arts heighten awareness for International Day of People with Disability.

Returning to the MECC for 2024, LOOSE ENDS will be an eclectic evening of art, music and performances by local artists and performers. Acts include Groove Movers, With One Voice, Choir of Unheard Voices, Strictly Wheelchair Dancers, Maddison Hunt, Crossroad Arts Performers, Live Painters, and more.

Crossroad Arts continues to hold LOOSE ENDS to address the gap for young people with disability to go out in the CBD and know that the venue and facilities are accessible and the attitudes of staff and clientele is open and inclusive.

Crossroad Arts’ Performer and Choreographer Charlee Presland says, “Here at the Crossroad Arts family we are so excited to put on one of our biggest annual fundraisers and shows for the community.

“It’s an opportunity to see all of the performers with and without disability come together and perform on the stage in their various groups.

“It’s a wonderful night, where you get to see people doing what they absolutely love and support them in their various endeavors. LOOSE ENDS is always a Kooky Inclusive and fun social event for everyone to celebrate International Day of Disability.

“As an artist with disability, I love teaching the choreography and supporting everyone to get up on stage to see my vision and their interpretation combined together to make the show come to life.”

For further details including how to book tickets please visit www.crossroadarts.com.au

WHAT: LOOSE ENDS is an Auslan interpreted event and the venue is accessible (toilet and level access) and is an official event of International Day for People with Disability.
WHEN: Friday December 6th, 2024 7pm- 9:30pm
WHERE: Plenary Halls, 258 Alfred Street, Mackay, Queensland 4740
TICKETS: $25/$20/under 12s $15, Group 4+ $20/ticket
Bookings essential:  call (07) 4961 9777 or visit themecc.com.au
Companion cards accepted

Crossroad Arts performers at LOOSE ENDS 2021 Photo credit:  Leah McLean

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Friday 22nd November

Kate Harding In Conversation
12.30pm
Kate Harding is a Bidjara, Ghyngalu and Garingbal woman with connection to Kooramindanjie (the Carnarvon Ranges) who lives and works in the Mackay region. An accomplished maker, Harding has created textiles for over 40 years, her work today reflecting a lifelong mastery of this medium. Harding employs techniques of sewing, crochet, Japanese beading, hand-embroidery, applique and quilting to create contemporary textile works that share stories of ancestral culture and Country. Tickets are FREE but bookings are essential via Eventbrite.com.
Artspace Mackay

Paxtons Christmas Night Markets
4pm-8pm
Come along to the final markets for 2024! Enjoy a evening with a nice meal, great music, and loads of Christmas shopping… and you might even get lucky and win a ham.
PCYC Norris Road, North Mackay

LIVE Music  
6-9pm
Enjoy Michael Scriha LIVE 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

Saturday 23rd November

Christmas Art and Craft Market
10am-4pm
Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th
Experience Mackay’s vibrant creative community at this arts and crafts fair, featuring original artwork for sale, live art demonstrations, and a variety of unique vendors, including wood turners, potters, and jewellery makers. Discover one-of-a-kind pieces, support local artisans, and enjoy Devonshire tea while exploring the talent of Mackay’s artists. Free entry and a Christmas raffle add to the festive atmosphere!
2 Snow Wright Court, Mackay

Yakapari Country Crafts And Community Centre Morning Tea
11am
Join in for a morning tea cent sale at Yakapari Country Crafts and Community Centre! Tickets are $25.00 per person and are limited, so be quick to secure your seat.
Yakapari Country Crafts and Community Centre

Pets At The Pub Christmas Paw-ty
From 12pm
The Seabreeze Hotel's Pets at The Pub returns on November 23rd with a festive Christmas twist. Guests can enjoy live music by DeJaVu, photos with Santa, face painting, a kids’ lucky dip, and a pet-friendly menu. Celebrate the season alongside furry friends at The Seabreeze Hotel!
Seabreeze Hotel, Slade Point

St Joseph’s Christmas Fair
From 12pm
Enjoy a festive evening at St Joseph’s Christmas Fair, featuring live music by Noah Davis Cookson, a variety of market stalls, thrilling rides, and delicious food stalls. Try your luck at the ham wheel and raffles while joining in the holiday cheer with family and friends!
St Joseph's Catholic Primary School North Mackay

Christmas Dried Floral Door Wreath Workshop
12.30pm
The Florist 4 Ways invites participants to deck the halls early with a Christmas Dried Floral Door Wreath Workshop on November 23rd from 12:30pm to 2:30pm. For $150, attendees will enjoy creating a festive wreath while sipping coffee with cake or wine with nibbles. Spaces are limited—visit www.theflorist4ways.com.au to reserve a spot.
106-116 Nebo Road, West Mackay

Sunday 24th November  

Sunday Buffet Breakfast
9am-11am
Enjoy a delicious buffet breaky with family or friends this Sunday at Goosies Sport and Recreation Club. $20 for Members or $23 for non-members. Children 12 or under $10.
Goosies Sport and Recreation Club

Pinnacle Pub Monthly Market
9am - 2pm
Pinnacle Family Hotel’s monthly markets keep getting bigger and better every time! Shop for a unique gift from the diverse range of stalls, pick local produce and plants or grab some of the delicious foods or homemade condiments on offer.
Then at the pub, enjoy live music from, indulge in delicious pies, crumbed steak, and in-house sweets for a perfect day out with great food and tunes.
Pinnace Family Hotel

Tuesday 26th November  

Connect and Share: Breastfeeding Through Summer
9am
Attendees are invited to join a discussion on breastfeeding during summer, covering ways to keep both mother and baby cool, evidence on alcohol and breastfeeding, and helpful tips for managing busy days with young children. This informative session provides practical advice and support for navigating the warmer months with little ones.
Charlies Café, Cnr Brisbane and Gordan Street

Switch On
10am
Switch On Workshops will challenge your people’s current beliefs and behaviours about safety. Participants will be taken on an emotional and thought-provoking
journey which moves them from compliance to commitment, creating a fundamental shift in their relationship to safety. For tickets or more details email Tania Begg tania@taniabeggconsulting.com
Ocean International

Wednesday 27th November  

Mackay Farmers’ Market
6:30 – 10:30am
Shop local at the Mackay Farmers' Market and enjoy a morning on the Pioneer River.
Grab your reusable coffee cups, drink tumblers, water kefir bottles, produce and carry bags and stop in at the Mackay Farmers' Market every Wednesday.
Bluewater Quay

Explore A Gym
9am
Bring your child along for a morning of FUN! Explore-A-Gym is a 2 hour play session that is designed to give your child the opportunity to learn and explore in a non-structured environment. Suitable for ages 18 months to 5 years. Cost is $12/child
5 Snow Wright CRT, Beaconsfield. Mackay

Thursday 28th November  

Riverside Markets
3pm-8pm
Come along and browse collections of unique and colourful creations crafted by local talents. Explore clothing, handmade cultural items and delicious food and drinks from local vendors by the river, every Thursday!
Bluewater Quay

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Taking a break from making others shine, digital marketing agency Rebel Nation recently celebrated its own glow-up with a fresh re-brand. As Mackay’s first marketing agency and the first to offer digital marketing services in the region, their origin story is nothing short of legendary. Now, they’re ushering in a bold new chapter.

With a motto of “work hard, have fun, and make a difference,” Rebel Nation provides an impressive range of marketing services. Whether it’s websites, branding, social media, marketing training, photography, or digital ads – they’ve got it covered. This dynamic team of nine is dedicated to empowering local businesses with marketing solutions that are strategic, effective, and tailored to be as hands-on or hands-off as you prefer. Whether you want to leave your marketing entirely in their capable hands or learn how to do it yourself, Rebel Nation has the expertise – and they certainly enjoy the process.

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The annual Mackay Children’s Christmas Party at the Showgrounds welcomed up to 1,200 children with special needs, invited through schools and care providers. This long-running event, held for over 30 years, catered to children with serious illnesses, physical or intellectual disabilities, and complex needs.

Mackay’s party was one of 17 held for special needs children across Australia and New Zealand, with around 35,000 children expected to attend in Australia alone.

These events trace back to a 1979 United Nations request to celebrate the International Year of the Child worldwide, fostering joy and inclusion for children with diverse needs.

Event manager Ally Young said the Mackay party was supported by the Queensland Government, volunteers and the business community of the Mackay, Isaac and Whitsunday regions.  

“Volunteers including SES and other service personnel are among 50 volunteers who have once again rallied to help set up and dismantle displays, help with catering and hand the children their toys.

“Each child invited will receive 3 brand new presents and treated to a 3-hour stage show, lunch and other Christmas goodies.”  

Mackay Fame Talent School’s 10-and-under jazz group was one of the groups who performed for the children while members from Ergon dressed up as Santa’s Little Helpers.

Photo credit: The Christmas Party Mackay

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The Airlie Beach Festival of Music transformed the town into a vibrant celebration, drawing over 10,000 attendees for five days of live music, themed costumes, and unforgettable moments.

The event kicked off with blues and roots trio 19 Twenty and they set the tone for the weekend ahead.

The popular Passport to Airlie showcase saw nine standout acts from across the country take to the stage, all vying for a highly coveted main stage spot at next year's festival.

Sunshine Coast singer-songwriter Tom Neilson won and earned himself a coveted spot on next year’s main stage.

Local venues buzzed with performances, dance-offs, and impromptu conga lines, creating a soundtrack of soul-stirring ballads and high-energy anthems.

Airlie Beach businesses thrived under the festival’s influence, further cementing the event’s importance to the community.

Beyond the music, the festival delivered a $5 million boost to the local economy, benefiting businesses and raising funds for the BMA CQ Rescue Helicopter.

Festival founder Gavin “Butto” Butlin summed it up:

“In a year where costs were higher than ever, pulling off an event of this scale was a challenge,” said Gavin “Butto” Butlin.

“Seeing the town come alive and knowing how much this festival supports our community, makes every ounce of effort worthwhile.”

Mark your calendars for next year’s event from November 7–9—it's an experience not to be missed!

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Photos sourced: Facebook

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The weekend of Friday, 29 November, and Saturday, 30 November, promises a pair of unforgettable performances at the Airlie Beach Hotel, which will host a spectacular evening of live entertainment featuring the acclaimed debut of the American duo, the Blues Brothers.

Music enthusiasts and fans of the legendary act will be thrilled as the celebrated performers bring their dynamic show to the heart of Airlie Beach as part of their international tour, offering a night of high-energy music, comedy, and nostalgia.

Across the country, Blues Brothers fans have been eagerly anticipating this moment as the internationally renowned tour lands on Australian shores, bringing with it the full fantastic spectacle of the Official Blues Brothers Revue.

This highly anticipated tour has made headlines nationwide, and for good reason - Wayne Catania and Kieron Lafferty, who embody Jake and Elwood Blues, are committed to delivering the most authentic Blues Brothers show that audiences have seen.

Endorsed and proudly presented by Dan Aykroyd and Judith Belushi, the Official Blues Brothers Revue provides a unique and rare opportunity for fans to experience the magic and music of one of the greatest musical partnerships ever to grace the big screen.

Since 2005, the legacy of John Belushi’s unforgettable character, Jake, and Dan Aykroyd’s beloved Elwood has lived on through the performances of Kieron Lafferty and Wayne Catania. Their show has received official endorsement from not only Dan Aykroyd and Judith Belushi but also the John Belushi Estate, making this an officially sanctioned experience.

The Official Blues Brothers Revue seamlessly combines the infectious energy, comedy, and mayhem of the original movie with beloved songs from the five popular albums released by John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd.

The authenticity and dedication that Wayne and Kieron bring to their roles have earned them glowing accolades, with many calling the Revue a faithful recreation of the beloved characters.

Audiences are transported back in time as the duo channels the true spirit of Jake and Elwood, performing with the same soulful conviction and exuberance that made the original Blues Brothers Band iconic. This tribute show has also been recognised for its celebration of Chicago’s rich musical heritage, paying homage to blues, R&B, and traditional soul music—genres that have shaped the soundtrack of generations.

Attendees at the Airlie Beach Hotel can look forward to an exhilarating night of live music that captures the essence of the Blues Brothers' legacy. The show will feature beloved classics, seamlessly blending humour, dance, and musical prowess, ensuring that the audience is captivated from start to finish. The event’s special free performance will take place from 7pm to 10pm, making it an ideal outing for families, couples, and music lovers of all ages.

Due to the anticipated popularity of this event, those wishing to attend are encouraged to secure their spot by booking a table in advance. Join in the fun at the Airlie Beach Hotel and be part of an evening that will have you singing, dancing, and celebrating well into the night!

What: The Official Blues Brother Revue.

When: Friday 29 and Saturday 30 November, 7pm to 10pm.

Where: Airlie Beach Hotel.

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The Airlie Beach Hotel will host the renewed Blues Brother Revue this November

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